FICTION

California

by Edan Lepucki
Little, Brown. Jul. 2014. 400p. ISBN 9780316250818. $26; ebk. ISBN 9780316250825. F
COPY ISBN
Two years ago, Frida and Cal made their way out of Los Angeles to live in seclusion, off the land, away from the violence of terrorists such as the Group, which tore the world apart, and the Communities, which cater to only the wealthiest clientele. They have adapted to their new lives, but when Frida becomes pregnant they worry for the safety of their unborn child. Not far from their cabin is a settlement called the Land, which is purported to be unwelcoming to visitors. Despite their reservations, Frida and Cal make their way there, hoping to find assistance if not acceptance. What they discover is both surprising and unsettling.
VERDICT While this debut novel has some potential as a disturbing postapocalyptic thriller, it stumbles in its execution. The characters don't evoke a lot of sympathy and the ambiguous ending leaves readers hanging. [A July LibraryReads pick; Stephen Colbert promoted the book as a response to the Amazon-Hachette dispute (ow.ly/y71R0).—Ed.]
Reviewed by Karin Thogersen, Huntley Area P.L., IL , Jul 01, 2014
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

FICTION

The Library Thief
by Shenjé, Kuchenga
FICTION

One Cursed Rose
by Zanetti, Rebecca
FICTION

A Punishing Breed
by Frost, DC
FICTION

The Sweet Blue Distance
by Donati, Sara
FICTION

Dreadful
by Rozakis, Caitlin
FICTION

The Guncle Abroad
by Rowley, Steven
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?