*CW for mentions of both physical and sexual violence*

Dark, fast paced, raw.

I love edgy dystopian stories, and New World Rising didn't disappoint. Right from the start it is brutal, and grips the reader. The world is split after apocalyptic events, and the main character Phoenix has had to learn how to survive in it, all on her own.

There are a diverse collection of characters, and a lot of blurred lines as to who is really good and who is wrong in this world. A lot of underlying depth to so many characters.

If I had anything negative to say, it would be that the events that happen to her parents, are relayed a little too often. I feel that the opening sequence gave enough detail, and maybe it needed to be mentioned once after. But not as frequently as it was. It is clear enough that her past has shaped the way she is now, and I think that there could have been more to her, without the constant need to repeat the exact same lines over and over.

But I thoroughly enjoyed the fast paced nature of the story, the gritty determination and intellect that makes Phoenix so intriguing and the development of her character. I hope I can pick up the sequels in the future.