The narrator did a good job of delineating the different characters and her narration didn't distract from my enjoyment of the story. I was glad I stuck it out until the end, though, as this was well plotted and although there was a love interest, it wasn't sappy. Snyder, though, does a good job of world building here and I became invested in learning what became of the characters, even though this novel wasn't non-stop action. I am a big fan of Maria Snyder's adult fiction (particularly the Poison Study series), so decided to give this book a chance, despite not being an aficionado of dystopian fiction (well, with the exception of those works involving zombies - I have a soft spot for the occasional zombie romp.) Also, it seems that most YA fantasy books nowadays seem to require a sappy love story (or triangle) interspersed in the plot, so, despite being a fan of Snyder's other work, I didn't start this book with high expectations. Until I accidentally start a rebellion and become the go-to girl to lead a revolution.īetter than expected for dystopian YA fantasy So what if I occasionally use the pipes to sneak around the Upper levels? Not like it’s all that dangerous - the only neck at risk is my own. I’ve got one friend, do my job, and try to avoid the Pop Cops.

One of thousands who work the lower levels, keeping Inside clean for the Uppers. Any time you need peace, you’re welcome to use my hideaway.' 'Before I could retreat, he said, 'My name’s Riley Narelle Ashon. We stared at each other for a few heartbeats. And with a single word he could alert the Pop Cops and send me to the Chomper. I’d spoken more in one burst to this stranger whose room I’d invaded than anyone else in weeks. In the lower levels there is no quiet place. “Imagine every space in this room filled with people, constantly being jostled and pushed.

Navigating the Stars by Maria V. Snyder