The Unexpected Inlander
Author: Kellyn Thompson
Published: July 17th, 2018
Genre: Fiction, Romance,
Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥
Buy the book: Amazon
**Disclaimer: I received a free e-copy from the author in exchange for an honest review**
Agent Christopher Rockford has been the best assassin in the agency for eight years, and he loves his job. He loves his solitary lifestyle. He loves eliminating criminals. He loves his comfortable life as a member of society’s wealthy coastal upper class.
But in pursuit of a target, he meets Jenna, a mysterious civilian who belongs to society’s lowest and most shunned group. Being around her is fun and intriguing, but it forces him to see things through her eyes—causing him to reconsider the world around them and The Order he so obediently serves. As he falls in love with her, he fears telling her the truth about his profession may cause him to lose her.
But Jenna has her own secrets to keep.
I was contacted by the author about reading this in exchange for an honest review. The cover of this book did not draw me in at all, it just did not speak to me. The description, however, did. I was really looking forward to enjoying this book.
I first want to mention that I loved the setting of this story! It takes place in the future where genetic engineering children in the new norm. Hello…CRISPR and CAS9, yes I am a Biology nerd and follow that amazing discovery. I was super happy to see another futuristic novel that discusses this. However, this one has a unique twist. Those who refuse to modify their children have no access to government funds. Those who lack modifications are known as Purebreds. They are required to live segregated lives due to their susceptibility to diseases. I think this would become more of a class segregation in reality. Those who cannot afford modifications become the lower class, purebreds. This had wonderful world building that pulled the reader directly into the book’s setting.
I did enjoy each of the two main characters, Christopher and Jenna. I did not feel as if I connected with them or felt invested in their story though. Maybe this could change with a little more development through the story, making me connect to them in some way. It could also be the point of view that the novel is written during the beginning that prevented me from forming a bond with the characters as well. I did enjoy the evolution of their relationship as the story progressed, though it seemed rushed. As rushed as it seemed, it is not unbelievable.
The writing style of this novel is descriptive enough, yet decisive. You will not find those dreaded information dumps here. This was an easy read, but I felt there could have been more action. I was looking for some larger turn of events but left disappointed. The main plot peak was easily guessed well ahead of time, there was no sit on my seat in shock moment there. The book was well paced and kept me entertained enough, but it felt slow at times once I predicted the outcome.
In the end, it was an easy and enjoyable read. If you enjoy action offset by romance, but not the fifty shades of grey kind…this might be a good choice for you.