Review: Delirium

Delirium by Lauren Oliver.

Oh, what to say about this. Well, this story takes place in future dystopian America where scientists have found a cure for love, which is called deliria in the book.  Everyone gets the procedure done and is then paired with their match for marriage.  If you disobey these rules and show signs of the deliria, or worse, sympathize with others, then there are very severe and harsh punishments. The main character, Lena, falls in love shortly before her procedure is done, and this book is her story.

There were lots that I liked about this book, but also, lots I didn't like.





First the good:

I liked the world Oliver built.
I liked Gracie.
I liked Hana, sometimes.
I liked the love story between her and Alex.
I liked the climax at the end....certainly did not expect that.


Now, onto the bad:

WARNING...SEMI-SPOILERS AHEAD
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The world that Oliver built was great, but it was lacking and I felt that the book fell flat. I can't even put my finger on the exact flatness.  Maybe it was the lack of action; Perhaps there was too much monologue in the character's head; Could have been the fact that Lena barely interacts with others which doesn't show us the world very much. It juts didn't have that believable quality to it...that realness that makes you feel as if you are the character going through this. There were a lot of unanswered questions to me.  For example, Lena's mother. I felt that that plot line could have been expanded, as could have little Gracie, and the parties. Whatever happened to all those people?  Does Hana still go to them? Does Alex? You would think Lena would want to take care of Gracie, or something since she understands her so well.  But no. I get it that Lena is in love, but she felt more emotions for a dying dog rather than little Gracie. That isn't even a joke! I wish it was.

I really wanted to LOVE this book, like other people, but I couldn't.  I loved it, but wasn't in love with it, if that makes sense. It was alright. Will I read the next book in the series? Probably. Hey, I want to know what happens!  But I won't be expecting any groundbreaking writing in the future.