DEFIANCE by C. J. Redwine

Within the walls of Baalboden, beneath the shadow of the city's brutal leader, Rachel Adams has a secret. While other girls sew dresses and obey their male Protectors, Rachel knows how to survive in the wilderness and deftly wield a sword. When her father, Jared, fails to return from a courier mission and is declared dead, the Commander assigns Rachel a new Protector, her father's apprentice, Logan--the same boy Rachel declared her love for two years ago, and the same one who handed her heart right back to her. Left with nothing but a fierce belief in her father's survival, Rachel decides to escape and find him herself. But treason against the Commander carries a heavy price, and what awaits her in the Wasteland could destroy her.

At nineteen, Logan McEntire is many things. Orphan. Outcast. Inventor. As apprentice to the city's top courier, Logan is focused on learning his trade so he can escape the tyranny of Baalboden. But his plan never included being responsible for his mentor's impulsive daughter. Logan is determined to protect her, but when his escape plan goes wrong and Rachel pays the price, he realizes he has more at stake than disappointing Jared.

As Rachel and Logan battle their way through the Wasteland, stalked by a monster that can't be killed and an army of assassins out for blood, they discover romance, heartbreak, and a truth that will incite a war decades in the making.

First line:
"The weight of their pity is like a stone tied about my neck."


This book is set up from the viewpoint of Rachel and Logan, each with their own chapters.
Rachel's dad taught her to live with her smarts, not be a weak female like the government wants. Logan was orphaned and apprenticed to Rachel's dad.
Logan becomes Rachel's protector which is awkward because a few years ago Rachel confessed her love for him and he didn't return it. So, Rachel hates Logan and hasn't talked to him since then.
The world and government building were done well. Except some things were confusing. I couldn't tell if the world was one that was new or one that was modern than laid to waste.
The characters were unique and easy to follow through the story. The villain is truly evil. But the main characters weren't saints. Rachel went through a dark time half way through the book and had to find some hope of the future to give her some light.
There were so many obstacles in the way of the characters achieving their goals! It kept the story moving and griping. I wanted to know what would happen to the characters, especially when they started on their trip.
 The relationship development didn't quite ring true with me. But I loved Logan looking out for Rachel and still respecting her strength. He knew when to help her.
There are a lot of unanswered questions. I hope they are answered in the next book.



Rated: PG 13
V: Some
L: No
S: Kissing

Liked:
Rachel
Logan
Internal dialogue

Disliked:
Middle is hazy to me now
The evil and killing


4 STARS