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Nader grants us a
strong and interesting female protagonist, Mia Eden, who gets to be her own
hero by the end of the book, a feat so rare in YA literature. I spent the whole
time waiting for her love interest, Gabriel, to swoop in and save the day. Escape From Eden does not fall prey to the patterns most
YA books do. The premise of a religious cult sequestered in the jungles of
South America is both refreshingly new and intriguing. Mia’s story is
action-packed and suspenseful from the very beginning where we are introduced
to a religious cult that resides in Edenton called “The Flock.”
There are plenty of
mysteries that are introduced throughout the book including Mia’s resistance to
the cult leader’s (the Reverend’s) teachings, how the two hundred residents of
Edenton came to be there, the truth behind “prayer circle,” and the story
behind the new kid on the block. The answers will only have you turning the
page in outrage, begging for more. The characterization of the Mia’s love
interest, Gabriel, and those who help and hurt him and Mia along the way is
expertly done. Each little fact you gain throughout the book is endearing to
the reader and even heartbreaking.
Nader offers an
adventure unlike any other because she pairs the requisite romantic sub-plot
with an action-packed plot that offers intrigue, suspense, and heart-pounding
moments. Mia and Gabriel’s sharp edges
fit together like puzzle pieces, with just enough tension and clashing along
the way.
Escape From
Eden will both make your day
and break your heart, just like many great novels will. This is Elisa Nader’s
break-out novel, and it’s definitely a ride to remember. I, for one, can’t wait
to see what she comes up with next.
By: Marissa Tandon
