The Marked by Inara Scott

The Marked by Inara Scott

2012, Hyperion Book CH

Series: Book 2 of Delcroix Academy

Website / Twitter / Facebook / Goodreads / Amazon

Rating

Synopsis: All of her life, Dancia Lewis has wanted to use her powers for good. And now that she’s learned the truth about Delcroix Academy—and herself—she may just get the chance. But being part of Delcroix’s top secret Program isn’t anything like Dancia expected. She has to ask herself: what happens to the Talented kids who refuse to pledge their loyalty to the Program? And why did her friend Jack run away rather than join? Dancia’s adorable boyfriend Cam insists they need the help of every Talented student to defend Delcroix from dangerous enemies outside their gates. But Dancia has to wonder: what if Delcroix’s most frightening enemies come from within?

Why read: Requested from tour site

What impressed me: I loved how much more in depth the story is becoming. Finding out more about the different talents is totally engrossing. I love the way the school works as well. I really enjoyed how Dancia's female friendships are progressing and the obstacles they've all been facing. It feels very real the way boys can come between female friendships in high school even when you aren't fighting over the same guy. The stakes are getting higher and there was an air of tension and suspense that wasn't nearly as potent in the first novel.

What disappointed me: As more of the student's abilities are revealed, they're a little hard to keep track of. Often a character will be mentioned without their talent specifically mentioned and while there are only three types of abilities, there are way too many specific talents in each area to know who does what anymore. I'm also not really loving Cam and Dancia together anymore. I don't want her with Jack either, but Cam and Dancia together feels way off somehow.

Recommended:Yes. Run out and pick up a copy of The Candidates (now released as The Talents) and follow it up quickly with The Marked.

Continue series: Most definitely. I love the school, the characters and the abilities. I can't wait to see how everything plays out.