Review: Beta (The Apex Cycle) by M.T. Zimny
Blurb:
Samantha Havardson is not an Apex. She’s completely ordinary with a totally normal family that just happens to moving to the Apex epicenter of the world- the manmade island city of New Delos. Although she thinks her lack of super Apex abilities will keep her out of the limelight, it quickly becomes apparent that the city has different plans, sweeping Samantha up in a world of secret identities and super powers where anyone, even those closest to her, might be an Apex. Plagued by missing students, secret Apex teams, and a mysterious man named Adrestus, Samantha searches for answers, causing secrets to unravel about her classmates, her family, and herself that drag her deeper into the secret world of the Apex.
Review:
I have always been a sucker for a good superhero story, having fallen in love with them when I just a young lad. Seeing a novel about a world with super heroes being common place is something that usually sucks me in. The focus of going to a school with the superheroes, known as Apex, is something that is familiar and well loved. The author will then introduce the readers into a world that has more twists and turns then a roller coaster. Some of them are seen coming up and others will drop the stomach or jaw with the surprises that truly make this story so engaging. It is written in a way that is easy to read and really allows a reader to be fully immersed in a world that is teeming with surprises around every turn. A huge part that I really loved was how the main character does not have any of the Apex powers, but is still immersed completely in the lives of many.
It is hard to pinpoint a true strength of the novel as many points really stand out to me. The ability of surprising the readers is definitely one of the biggest but it is closely followed by the many characters that are very well done. The idea of high school age characters can make it seem like this novel is for younger readers, but it is a complex masterpiece that deserves to be read by all. The typical feelings and other teenage things make a small appearance but it is overshadowed by the mystery and action that occurs throughout the novel. The stakes are advanced at an impressive pace, not ever forcing the fact of what it is trying to accomplish. The elements of suspense and action are handled beautifully, really enhancing a story that feels like old comic books mixed with modern storytelling.
This novel is a gem! I highly recommend it to all readers who love superheroes, fantasy, or anything related to it. I was truly blown away time and again as I continued to be lost into this wonderful story. I know that I will shout its praises for years to come and I look forward to diving into the other two novels of the trilogy. The writing is truly well done and makes it a joy to read. I know that if a reader gives it a chance, it will become a series that will grab hold of them with superhuman strength and not let go!
Thank you for taking the time to read my review. As always, happy reading and Stay Great!!
