book review: The Aquifer

A futuristic novel set in the year 2250, The Aquifer is a story about 16-year-old Luca and his rather unprecedented quest for truth. Luca is the last in the line of the Deliverers, a family instituted to go underground every year to negotiate with the legendary "Rats" for the world's rationed fresh water. Peace has reigned over the world; emotions are monitored and controlled. No one wonders, no one thinks, no one questions.  All is peace...or so they think.

When Luca's father goes missing, Luca is forced underground.   He soon discovers the secrets that have been buried, the lives that have been corrupted, the lies that have spread.  In his absence the world changes; when he again reaches the surface he soon realizes that nothing will ever again be the same...nor would he wish it to be.

I found this book to be very interesting, the characters compelling, the mysterious twists kept me turning pages.  There was an element of romance, but I highly appreciated the fact that it was very subtle.  There was a kiss or two, but again, subtle and not overly glorified.  The portrayal of family loyalty was great--I enjoyed Luca's admiration for both of his parents and the other relatives mentioned in the story.  

I'm not sure if maybe it was just me, but I was disappointed in some of the communication of some of the story points and plot. Also, sometimes there were little pieces of dialogue that I did not really know to whom it belonged, and a couple of scenes in which the characters would do something and I had a hard time of understanding why.

The spiritual symbolism in the book was okay--but also, again, confusing.  I was disappointed that the author did not mention Jesus, or even God.  There was a "Voice" that spoke to Luca--but then, Luca was not a Christian. There is mention of "Wishers" that you assume are Christians because they pray--but that is unclear; many religions pray...to false gods. 

All in all, it was a very interesting book--beautiful prose, the characters were real, the plot was fascinating.  But still a bit confusing and fuzzy on the meaning and lessons being portrayed.  I would hesitate to recommend this book to just anyone, but I would still let my siblings that are strong in the faith read it as I know they would enjoy the story.  I would give this book 3 out of 5 stars.

Find out more about the book HERE!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com® book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255