I love books.
I love stories. I love a well written character that draws you in. I love the learning and transportation that takes place.
As such, I'm fairly picky when it comes to my books, even more so when Hollywood decides to tread on much loved friends.
This is why it was so odd to read a book and have my second thought be "This would make an amazing movie (if done right)"
Tabula Rasa by Kristen Lippert-Martin truly is an edge of your seat thriller and I loved every minute of it.
The character of Sarah definitely fits the criteria for drawing in readers. I love that Lippert-Martin allows for readers to discover the world and Sarah as she reclaims her own identity and begins making her own decisions. Her lack of knowing helps heighten the mystery but also allows her to be a sympathetic character. Although readers are unsure who is friend or foe you can't help but want things to work out for this young girl.
Thomas was a little cliche when it comes to nerd based characters and yet it also made him a suitable counterbalance for Sarah midst the horrors she was encountering in the hospital and takeover. Although not a wholly innocent character his innocent brought a more human touch to the story.
Oh, and the hospital. I don't generally read many books that are set in a single building. I find it difficult for an author to hold my focus when the setting never really changes (okay there's also the yurt scenes but that's not a huge change.) Instead Tabula Rasa offers up the setting as another primary character. One who is neutral and ever present, intriguing and threatening in it's own way.
Finally, I really enjoyed Lippert-Martin's ability to craft a story. Confession time, once again, this isn't a story to read while falling asleep (or if you hope to fall asleep during insomnia). Tabula Rasa is a fast paced, seat of your pants, adventure novel with twists and turns I don't think I would have seen even if I was trying to finish it at 3am. Lippert-Martin keeps her story on task and to the point when it comes to remaining true to Sarah's quest for identity and being true to herself well still providing little moments that help propel the characters forward as individuals rather than plot points.
I received this book in exchange for my honest opinion from NetGallery. The views expressed are my own.
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