YA Book Review: Replication

About the Book:

"Someone is covering up multiple secrets…

Martyr—otherwise known as Jason 3:3—is one of hundreds of clones kept in a remote facility called Jason Farms. Told that he has been created to save humanity, Martyr has just one wish before he is scheduled to 'expire' in less than a month. To see the sky.

Abby Goyer may have just moved to Alaska, but she has a feeling something strange is going on at the farm where her father works. But even this smart, confident girl could never have imagined what lies beneath a simple barn. Or what would happen when a mysterious boy shows up at her door, asking about the stars.

As the reality of the Jason Experiment comes to light, Martyr is caught between two futures—the one for which he was produced and the one Abby believes God created him to have. Time is running out, and Martyr must decide if a life with Abby is worth leaving everything he’s ever known."

Amber's Review:

In Replication, Williamson takes a very controversial topic (human cloning) and uses it as the launching point for an engrossing story full of action, tender moments, and morals! It's just the book to entertain while still providing plenty of food for thought and discussion (a veritable banquet, really!).

What if you had lived your whole life underground, never knowing what mountains and trees and sky looked like? What if you had been lied to all your life about the truth of your existence? Or what if you discovered that your dad was involved in very unethical scientific research, and your house has suddenly become the hiding place for a runaway clone?

These "What if?" situations and more bring Abby and Martyr together on a bizarre but rewarding adventure. Danger awaits above the ground and under the ground. Throw in some teenage angst and some sweet romantic tension, and the stakes just got even higher!

While the portrayed incompetency of the law enforcement personnel and some minor editorial errors detract a bit from the story, the ultimate result is rather enchanting. Depending on the young adult, the story doesn't seem too scary for middle-school aged on up (although some situations are a bit intense). With the discussion questions in the back and the message about living out one's faith and purpose, Replication is a meaningful book.

*With thanks to the author for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.*

About the Author:

"Jill Williamson is a novelist, dreamer, and believer. She writes
stories that combine danger, suspense, and adventure for
readers of all ages. Her first book released in April 2009 from
Marcher Lord Press. By Darkness Hid (Blood of Kings, Book
1) is a medieval fantasy. Jill has served alongside her youth
pastor husband for the past ten years and loves working with
teenagers, especially to encourage young writers. She gives
writing workshops at churches and schools. You can learn more
about Jill on her Web site at www.jillwilliamson.com."

*You can buy the book now on Amazon.com in hardcover or e-book format!*