Mini Review: As They Slip Away by Beth Revis

Posted by Jessi (Geo) on December 4, 2013 | 0 Comments


Mini Review: As They Slip Away by Beth RevisAs They Slip Away by Beth Revis
Series: Across the Universe #0.5
(1.11.2013)
Genres: Dystopian, Science Fiction, Young Adult
Format: eBook, 48 pages
Source: I own it


3 Stars

Taking place on the spaceship Godspeed before Amy Martin wakes up and Elder takes leadership, this novella describes life at the Hospital during Eldest’s reign. Focusing primarily on background characters, readers will see fan-favorite characters Harley, Orion, Victria, and more.

Selene is a singer on a spaceship that only values people who can provide important skills that enhance survival. As her friends–fellow “loons” in the Hospital–start to join apprenticeships to turn their skills into valuable labor, Selene is sent with a handful of other students to learn about the importance of art from the Recorder, Orion. The assignment pairs her with a young sculptor, Luthor, and their dangerous romance proves just how terrifying living trapped on a spaceship under the rule of a heartless dictator could be. 

This tragic tale explores the background of a previously unknown character, linking the history of the ship and its residents to Amy and Elder, giving depth to the world of Godspeed.

My thoughts

This story was so twisted! Which usually I would like, but I couldn’t bring myself to care about Selene.  I didn’t really like her much, either. She claims to love Bartie and she’s pining for him, but as soon as Luthor comes around, she forgets about Bartie pretty quickly. She kisses Luthor even though she barely knows him. I feel like things were rushed, but that was probably only because this is such a short novella.

I do like that there was clear distinction between her thoughts at different times. The first memory we see was choppy and broken, making it clear that she had been brainwashed. Then it flashes farther back and her thoughts are normal. I do love Beth’s writing style, but for some reason I just couldn’t connect with Selene. I guess it’s just not the same without Amy!

I’ve gotta say, the ending was pretty messed up. That was what I liked the best about it!

Overall Assessment

Writing style: 4.5/5
Characters: 3/5
Pace: 4/5
Cover: 4.5/5
Overall rating: 3/5

Jessi (Geo)

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