EDITOR’S CHOICE
Plagued Lands enthrals with its thrilling plot, heartfelt relationships, and a courageous heroine, making it an unmissable dystopian gem.
Nikki Brooke’s Plagued Lands offers a gripping exploration of survival, trust, and resilience in a vividly imagined dystopian world. Set in a future where humanity clings to glass-enclosed cities to avoid ravaging diseases, the story powerfully captures themes of family bonds and the cost of safety when steeped in fear.
Martina, a determined and complex protagonist, anchors the narrative with her relentless courage and fierce devotion to her younger brother. Her struggle to provide for him amidst rising medication costs adds a palpable tension that resonates deeply, especially in light of contemporary issues around healthcare and inequality. The mystery begins when she witnesses someone outside the bubble, upending her understanding of the world she thought she knew. This pivotal moment sets in motion a fast-paced quest for truth that will keep readers on edge.
The supporting characters shine in their own right. Nathan, the enigmatic nomad, and Persephone, the driven pharmacy student, offer a dynamic mix of romance, camaraderie, and intellectual resolve. Their interactions with Martina provide moments of warmth amidst the bleakness of their reality. At its heart, the story asks what we are willing to sacrifice to protect those we love and what lengths we’ll go to uncover the truth.
Brooke’s prose is accessible yet evocative, drawing readers into a world that feels both foreign and unnervingly close to home. With suspense and heart in equal measure, Plagued Lands is a standout YA dystopian novel that will leave readers eager for a sequel. Highly recommended for fans of The Hunger Games and The Maze Runner.
