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Replica by Lauren Oliver is a book that is nothing short of amazing. This is the story of a clone and a human, both connected to a disturbing human cloning institute. I would say that the way that this book is written is one of the best parts, since there are so many options. Replica is sure to blow your mind.
Series: Replica #1
Author: Lauren Oliver
Also by this author: Vanishing Girls
Publisher: HarperCollins
Genres: Sci-Fi, Young Adult Fiction
Publication Date: October 4, 2016
Rating:
Series Rating:
Lyra
From a distance, the Haven Institute, tucked away on a private island off the coast of Florida, looks serene and even beautiful. But up close the locked doors, military guards, and biohazard suits tell a different story. In truth, it is a clandestine research facility where thousands of replicas, or human models, are born, raised, and observed.
But when a surprise attack is launched on Haven, two of its young experimental subjects—Lyra, or 24, and the boy known only as 72—manage to escape. As they make their way through a new and menacing environment, they meet a stranger named Gemma, who has embarked on a perilous quest of her own. And as Lyra tries to understand Haven’s purpose, she uncovers earth-shattering secrets that will change the lives of both girls.
Gemma
Gemma has been in and out of hospitals her whole life. A sickly child, she has grown into a lonely adolescent whose life is circumscribed by home, school, and her best friend, April.
But after she is nearly abducted by a stranger claiming to know her, Gemma starts to investigate her family’s past and discovers her father’s mysterious connection to the secretive Haven research facility. Hungry for answers, she travels to Florida, only to stumble upon two human models, or replicas, 24 and 72—and a completely new set of questions. As Gemma tries to unravel the mysteries of Haven, she learns terrible truths about herself and her family that will threaten to destroy everything she loves.
Two girls, two stories, one novel.
While the stories of Gemma and Lyra mirror each other, each contains revelations critically important to the other story. Their narratives can be read separately or in alternating chapters.
❃ I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. ❃
Book Review: Replica by Lauren Oliver
Replica is a story all about clones, human replicas. The story is told in two perspectives, a clone’s and a human’s. Basically, the institution where the clones are made is blown up, causing the girls’ paths to cross. There is so much suspense as they try and uncover the true motive of the Haven Institute, and there are many plot twists. I found Replica to be kind of like Orphan Black, so if you are a fan of the show, you will love this book.
❀ Amazing Setting
The setting of Replica is so amazing. Part of the story takes place in an institute full of clones. As if the hospital and the cloning wasn’t eerie enough, the Haven Institute is located on an island and surrounded by armed guards. I found this to be perfect for Halloween and the fall season. All the secrecy really drew me in, and I found it hard to tear my eyes off the page.
❀ Unique Layout
The way Replica is written is super unique. The layout of the book is so original, since there are three ways to read: Lyra’s side first, Gemma’s side first, or alternating between the two. I started with Lyra’s side for no particular reason other than it being on the front cover. I was totally expecting to read the same story twice, but I was pleasantly surprised to see two completely different sides. Somehow, Lauren Oliver has woven two girls from opposite backgrounds together in a way that makes perfect sense. Both sides have these massive plot twists that I never saw coming. You can never go wrong with a good old Lauren Oliver book.
❀ A Clone Book
Replica by Lauren Oliver is a clone book featuring two very different girls. The story revolves around a creepy cloning institution, which is actually perfect for fall. I loved the way this book was written and would definitely recommend it as a choice for a YA book club.
Book Quotes: Replica by Lauren Oliver
“But she nodded anyway. Lyra had a plan, and the plan required her to be good, at least for a little while.”
About Lauren Oliver
Lauren Oliver is the cofounder of media and content development company Glasstown Entertainment, where she serves as the president of production. She is also the New York Times bestselling author of the YA novels Replica, Vanishing Girls, Panic, and the Delirium trilogy: Delirium, Pandemonium, and Requiem, which have been translated into more than thirty languages. The film rights to both Replica and Lauren's bestselling first novel, Before I Fall, were acquired by AwesomenessTV; Before I Fall is now a major motion picture and opened in theaters March of 2017. The sequel to Replica, titled Ringer, is her most recent novel and was released October 3rd, 2017.
About The Candid Cover
Olivia ❀ Canadian YA book blogger, Starbucks lover, & professional bibliophile.