Title: Forget Me Not (Book I in the Collective series)
Author: Stacey Nash
Release Date: February 17, 2014
Publisher: Entranced Publishing, Rush
Genre: YA speculative fiction
Book Blurb:
Anamae has lived a quiet life with her father ever since her mother disappeared nine years ago. But things take a drastic turn when she finds a brooch just like her mother’s pendant. When worn together, these pieces of jewelry transform into a powerful cloaking device. This discovery attracts the attention of a secret society determined to take control of the technology and silence anyone who knows about it. Anamae becomes their prime target and is forced to leave her father behind to join a group that vows to protect her. As she navigates this hidden world, she must decide if saving her dad is worth the risk to her new friends’ lives, knowing that no matter what choice she makes, someone will get hurt.
REVIEW:
When Anamae finds out her mother’s necklace is part of an advanced technology hidden by a powerful group called the Collective, she gets pulled into a world filled with secrets and danger. Joining a rebel group fighting against the Collective, Anamae quickly learns not everything is as it seems and trust is a rare commodity in this underground battle.
Stacey Nash’s debut novel creates an intricate world of secret powers and rebellion. The storyline is engaging and showcases Nash’s talent as a storyteller. The concept of a clandestine organization hiding advanced technology from the public is fresh and intriguing, standing out because it veers away from the typical magic themes often found in YA fiction.
Even though there are moments where the plot slows down, these are balanced by thrilling action scenes and imaginative technology. The various gadgets Nash introduces are both inventive and entertaining, making the action sequences standout. Her descriptive writing brings settings vividly to life, drawing readers into the heart of the story.
The romance between Anamae and the mysterious Jax adds another layer to the narrative. Jax is the perfect mix of danger and vulnerability, keeping readers hooked until the very end. The tension between them maintains a high level of excitement, making for a gripping romance that doesn’t settle too quickly, thus keeping things interesting.
The main critique is the pacing during non-action sequences, especially the training sessions, which could use a bit more excitement to keep readers fully engaged. These slower parts might lead some to temporarily put the book down, missing the action and intrigue that follows.
Overall Impression:
Stacey Nash has crafted a compelling underground world that promises adventure and excitement. Despite some slow sections, the action-packed rest of the book makes it worthwhile. This novel sets a promising start for the series, and I am eager to see what comes next.
Adaptation Recommendation:
This novel could make an excellent single movie, though the sequel suggests a two-part film series might be ideal, similar to The Mortal Instruments. The vivid action scenes and innovative technology would translate well onto the big screen.
A vividly fast-paced tale with adventure, secrets, and romance!
About the Author:
Stacey Nash grew up in the Hunter Valley of New South Wales, an area rich in history and culture. This region fuels her writing inspiration. After a brief stint with poetry during her teens, she stopped writing until after university when she was married with young children. Now, she enjoys spending her days with her kids and writes whenever inspiration strikes.
The Collective. That’s what Al mentioned, too. I glance at Will; his mouth slightly open and eyes wide, he looks as astonished as I feel. Beau’s face brightens as he sees someone behind me. I turn to find Bertie waving and smiling at the doorway before she continues on.
“When tech is used, an alarm alerts the Collective,” Beau says. “If unauthorized, they send a scout to retrieve the tech and obscure its existence.”
The East Coast Gas uniform guy must have been a scout.
“What do you mean?” Will asks.
Beau rubs his forehead. “Technology like cellphones and computers is common, but other tech is unknown. The Collective hides its knowledge from the public.”
I shake my head. “I should have known it wasn’t magic.”
The pendant’s blue flower made me invisible. Not magic, but technology. I still clutch it protectively, wondering how it works. I’ve always hated science class, preferring to daydream about being outside with Will and my camera.
Beau continues, “We use the alarm to intercept Collective agents and protect innocent people. The radar pinpoints tech use.”
The boy in the leather jacket must have been sent to intercept the gas man.
“This is a safe house. You’ll stay here while we secure your safety,” Beau says.
“A safe house?” Will asks.
My mind spins with all the new information. This morning, we were playing a dumb game, and now we’re in great danger.
“There are several safe houses across the country, each with a team to assist you.”
“I can’t stay here. My dad needs me,” I say, sinking into a nearby armchair. My dad is close to despair after losing Mom and can’t lose me too.
“They’re relentless. They won’t stop until they find you,” Al says. “I’ll keep an eye on your dad.”
Will’s rigid stance stiffens further. “What do you mean ‘not safe’?”
“Mae threatens the secrecy of advanced technology,” Al explains. “The Collective eliminates their threats.”
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