Review: The Line by Teri Hall

Age Group: Young Adult
Received From: Publisher
Other Info: 2010 Debut Author Challenge
IBSN: 9780803734661
Blurb:
An invisible, uncrossable physical barrier encloses the Unified States. The Line is the part of the border that lopped off part of the country, dooming the inhabitants to an unknown fate when the enemy used a banned weapon. It’s said that bizarre creatures and superhumans live on the other side, in Away. Nobody except tough old Ms. Moore would ever live next to the Line.
Nobody but Rachel and her mother, who went to live there after Rachel’s dad died in the last war. It’s a safe, quiet life. Until Rachel finds a mysterious recorded message that can only have come from Away. The voice is asking for help.
Who sent the message? Why is her mother so protective? And to what lengths is Rachel willing to go in order to do what she thinks is right?

My Thoughts: 

When I started The Line I really didn’t know what to expect. I had read some mixed reviews. So praising the novel and some saying it fell a little flat. I’m somewhere in the middle….no I’m definitely leaning more toward praising. 

As most of you know I love all things dystipian. Something you may not know is I really love politics(can you believe that?) I’m fascinated by the inner working of the government and I have a big imagination so I can only assume that that’s where my love for dystopia come from. What I’m getting at is, in a lot of the dystopian novels I have read lately the author focuses on how the world effects the characters here and now. Teri Hall kind of took her book in a different direction. The characters are very sheltered where they live and the day to day goings on of the government don’t really affect them…..or do they? Teri Hall writes more about the history of her world. I can see where some might have thought that made the plot slow moving but I think the way she did it, by making it part of Rachel’s school work made it very interesting.

The story is mostly told from Rachel’s point of view but there are short chapters and snippets from other characters. That builds the mystery to a boiling point! I really liked all the characters and learning their stories. Rachel was a bit naive but considering the way she grew up it is totally understandable.

Teri Hall has a hit on her hands. That’s for sure! I’m going to be waiting very anxiously for the next book!


4 Stars!