Tahereh Mafi| 2011 | 338 Pages | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genres: Dystopia, YA, Science Fiction, Paranormal, Fantasy
SUMMARY
I have a curse
I have a gift
I am a monster
I'm more than human
My touch is lethal
My touch is power
I am their weapon
I will fight back
Juliette hasn't touched anyone in exactly 264 days.
The last time she did, it was an accident, but The Reestablishment locked her up for murder. No one knows why Juliette's touch is fatal. As long as she doesn't hurt anyone else, no one really cares. The world is too busy crumbling to pieces to pay attention to a 17-year-old girl. Diseases are destroying the population, food is hard to find, birds don't fly anymore, and the clouds are the wrong color.
The Reestablishment said their way was the only way to fix things, so they threw Juliette in a cell. Now so many people are dead that the survivors are whispering war—and The Reestablishment has changed its mind. Maybe Juliette is more than a tortured soul stuffed into a poisonous body. Maybe she's exactly what they need right now.
Juliette has to make a choice: Be a weapon. Or be a warrior.
MY THOUGHTS & OVERVIEW
Re-reading Shatter Me was just as enjoyable as the first time. The characters, with their engaging and relatable traits, made the adventure feel like catching up with old friends. I understand it's not everyone's cup of tea and has its flaws, but the characters' charm and the story's excitement make it impossible not to love. Shatter Me reignited my passion for reading years ago and will always hold a special place in my heart.
The plot is a gripping journey from the very beginning, and Tahereh Mafi's writing is not just incredible but also addictive. The beauty and uniqueness of her writing style had me hooked, and I found myself devouring the book in one sitting.
Juliette is a fantastic main character. I was rooting for her from the start, especially given her tough past and how her parents treated her. There were moments when I questioned her decisions, but then I remembered how isolated she's been and how that must affect her choices.
Adam took some time for me to warm up to. At first, I found him a bit of a cliché hero—handsome and swooping in to save the day. But I'm hoping future developments will give his character more depth and make me love him as much as I want to.
I wasn't a huge fan of Juliette and Adam's relationship—it felt a bit forced, and Juliette's feelings seemed more about the novelty of affection than real love. Adam himself, while sweet, can come across as a bit cliché.
Warner is one of my favorites. There's something about his dark, mysterious aura that pulls me in. His scenes with Juliette are electrifying, even when they're just talking. I'm hooked on his character and can't wait to learn more about him.
The plot twist at the end was a delightful surprise, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the story. The power dynamics in this dystopian world are fascinating, and the series, despite its writing style not being for everyone, is worth the read. The character development and evolving romance(s) are rewarding, and the world-building, while familiar, becomes more engaging as the series progresses.
Ultimately, Shatter Me offers an intriguing plot and unforgettable characters, making it one of my favorites. Warner, especially, is a standout—his complex and captivating presence is something I can't get enough of.
DETAILED CHARACTER OVERVIEW
Juliette Ferrars is a fantastic main character. I was rooting for her from the start, especially given her tough past and how her parents treated her. At 17, she possesses a lethal touch that's isolated her from society. Her parents labeled her a monster and never showed her affection, leaving her scared, self-loathing, and self-conscious. At the novel's start, Juliette is terrified and vulnerable, describing herself as "too petrified, too paralyzed, too paranoid." Yet, she harbors the ambition to overcome her fears and become "bigger, better, stronger... the bird that flies away." When she arrives at Sector 45, she rejects the luxurious comforts and fancy dresses, showcasing her rebellious nature and commitment to social justice over personal comfort. Her evolution throughout the book is powerful as she learns to see her touch as a gift rather than a curse. There were moments when I questioned her decisions, but then I remembered how isolated she's been and how that must affect her choices.
Adam Kent took some time for me to warm up to. At 18, he's described as tall, muscular, intelligent, and brave, with military tattoos that hint at his past. Although he grew up with an abusive father, Adam's kindness and loyalty shine through, especially in his protective nature toward Juliette and his younger brother, James. At first, he's a bit of a cliché hero—handsome and swooping in to save the day. But I'm eagerly anticipating future developments that will give his character more depth and make me love him as much as I want to.
Warner, though? He's my favorite. At 19, Warner is the leader of Sector 45, initially appearing as a cruel, manipulative figure with a commanding presence. Despite his harsh exterior and brutal methods, he shows a different side around Juliette, revealing his secret fears and vulnerabilities. His complex relationship with Juliette, including his attempts to win her loyalty, adds depth to his character. There's something about his dark, mysterious aura that pulls me in. His scenes with Juliette are electrifying, even when they're just talking. I'm hooked on his character and can't wait to learn more about him.
James Kent, Adam’s 10-year-old brother, is friendly and curious. Although initially a bit jealous of Juliette, he quickly becomes her friend. His close relationship with Adam, who raised him and protected him from their father, adds an emotional layer to the story.
Kenji Kishimoto, nicknamed "Moto," is an undercover member of Omega Point who helps Juliette, Adam, and James escape from Warner. His ability to blend into his surroundings and his severe and protective nature makes him a standout character.
Castle, the leader of Omega Point, is a tall, fit man in his 40s with a calm and respectful demeanor. He has advanced psychokinetic abilities and is the first to address Juliette as "Ms. Ferrars," showing his respect for her. His leadership and kindness offer a stark contrast to Warner's cruelty.
Brendan, Castle's companion at Omega Point, adds humor to the story with his British accent and unique ability to electrocute people upon touch.
Winston and Jenkins are other notable characters in the resistance and at Sector 45, contributing to the story's tension and conflict.
Private Seamus Fletcher's fate is a chilling reminder of Warner's ferocity, as he is executed in front of Juliette and the other soldiers, demonstrating Warner's control and brutality.
Sonya and Sara are identical twins with a deep bond and complementary abilities. Both are intelligent, polite, and calm, with a gentle demeanor and impeccable bedside manners. Their hazel eyes, brown skin, and long, stick-straight brown hair, usually styled in high ponytails, create a striking and unified appearance. They often finish each other's sentences and speak in perfect harmony, showcasing their mutual understanding and loyalty.
Sonya focuses on physical healing, using her magic touch to accelerate recovery, regrow tissue, and replenish blood loss. She has extensive medical knowledge but cannot treat issues like food poisoning or chronic exhaustion.
Sara specializes in internal and mental health, addressing emotional wounds and psychological trauma with her empathetic abilities.
THEMES
Physical and Emotional Isolation
Juliette's parents isolate her physically and emotionally, abusing her and blaming her for their ruined dream of a perfect family. This isolation leaves Juliette unfamiliar with warmth and affection, causing her to isolate herself to protect those around her emotionally. Her journey through the book is about overcoming this isolation and regaining self-confidence. Mafi also highlights the emotional detachment in society under the totalitarian regime, where people have become disconnected despite being physically present with one another. Juliette's arrival at Omega Point brings a renewed sense of hope and human connection, demonstrating that resistance and community are still possible.
Resistance to Tyranny, depicting a society under the iron rule of The Reestablishment. Despite the regime's attempts to control every aspect of life, characters like Adam and Juliette find personal ways to resist. Adam undermines the regime's efforts, while Juliette preserves cultural artifacts and thoughts. The members of Omega Point, including Castle, unite to fight back, showcasing the strength of the human spirit against dehumanization.
The importance of Hope and Resilience. Even in a world crippled by fear and total control, hope remains crucial. Castle's strategic planning and the characters' efforts to fight for a better future highlight human resilience. The novel demonstrates that maintaining hope and determination is not just essential for survival but also for progress, even amidst dire conditions. It's a powerful message that inspires and uplifts
WHERE TO READ / BUY
Paperback: $8.69
Hardback: $15.99
Kindle: $11.99
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