Rebel Heart: Dust Lands, Book 2

Gr 7 Up—Picking up after the climactic events of Blood Red Road (Recorded Books, 2011), Saba and company are making their way west where they hope to start a better life in the second title (2012, both S & S/Margaret K. McElderry Bks.) in Young's post-apocalyptic series. Saba is anxious to reunite with her love, Jack, despite her brother's insistence that he's only out for himself. It becomes clear to her companions that Saba is in a fragile mental state, haunted by visions of the deaths she has caused, particularly her friend Epona. Meanwhile, a new breed of Tonton has emerged under the leadership of the Pathfinder, stealing land from settlers deemed unworthy to form New Eden. When it appears that Jack has betrayed them by joining the Tonton, Saba is convinced that he needs her help and sets off to find him despite the price on her head. The growing divide between Saba and her beloved twin brother and the romantic decisions she faces will have far-reaching consequences. Heather Lind returns to narrate, rising again to the task of conveying Saba's unique voice and personality. Saba has changed, her experiences affecting her deeply, and Lind captures her confusion, self-doubt, and vulnerability. Lind also gives supporting characters distinct voices; her portrayal of Slim, a wily traveler in New Eden, is particularly memorable. Although this title doesn't quite live up to the high standard set by the first book, fans will be left anxiously awaiting the trilogy's conclusion.—Amanda Raklovits, Champaign Public Library, IL