Book Review #21: "Arena"

Hey Everyone,

     I am going to review the book "Arena" by Holly Jennings. This book is out for publication today April 5, 2016. To read an excerpt from this book CLICK HERE. And for those of you who would like to purchase a copy of this book CLICK HERE. This book is set in the near future, where instead of live action sports like football, the world is entertained with a virtual reality gaming competition. In order to win you can't be killed. It is about love, loss, addiction, and competition. 

     Overall I rated this book three and a half stars out of five. It was entertaining, and a fast read which kept my attention throughout the book. I loved how this book seemed to have a simple plot, but took on a greater meaning. It tackled the issues of technology and the problems it caused by living in a technology focused world. It talks about balance, being able to live in the real world and virtual world at the same time. It discussed fame, what it is like to be a "celebrity" to uphold an image that is not you. I fell in love with the main character Kali, she was a very strong, fierce and she upheld the image of a feminist, in a male driven society. This book will give you little treats when referring to the technology and culture reminiscent of the past.

     This book was a little disappointing. It was like I was expecting more from the book, and kept waiting for it to happen which then it never did. The game, the fighting got a little old and bland at times. However the descriptions of the action was very real and well brought to life. This book will appeal to a large number of people. Obviously people who love technology and video games would enjoy this book. This book is not just for gamers it has something that everyone can relate to.

     I would like to thank Netgalley, Holly Jennings (the author), and Berkley Publishing Group for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

Until the next page,

Jill