Warcross (Warcross #1) by Marie Lu

The idea of a virtual game that goes beyond mere gaming pleasure, extending into the very lives and thoughts of people, is quite astounding.

Think Hunger Games and Divergent mixed in one, and you begin to get the larger picture of the book that is Warcross.

In a tech empire that spans not just the entire world but the very lives of individuals as well, a young girl is caught up in a storm of life-changing events that will require answers to questions she could never have imagined…

The tech system is quite good. For a person who does not read a lot of sci-fi, the tech system is easy to understand and follow through. The idea of a virtual game that goes beyond mere gaming pleasure, extending into the very lives and thoughts of people, is quite astounding.

Writing is one area where the author has really excelled: it’s an easy read, one you can flow along with, easily taking in all or most of the detail.

The story is quite intriguing, with a lot of extensive world-building through the tech system/virtual gaming universe. I’d like to see more action, though. The game reminds me of Quidditch, with the Architects, Thieves, and all.

The main story revolves around themes of romance, family, will, trust, and loyalty, all linked together in a web of stunning world-building.

Despite not exactly ending on as spectacular a cliffhanger as one would have hoped, the mystery that shrouds much of the finale ensures that the next book will be eagerly anticipated.