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Wither Audiobook
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(3.00) - 40,666 listener ratings
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Publisher Description
Lauren DeStefano makes a stellar debut with this chilling tale. The first installment of a planned trilogy, Wither introduces listeners to a bleak world where a mysterious disease kills most women by the age of 20 and men by the age of 25. Like many girls her age, 16-year-old Rhine has been captured and forced into marriage in an effort to keep the population growing. But, despite her new husband's wealth, she wants nothing more than to escape her servitude and return home before time runs out.
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"This book was very interesting.... The concept- that almost everyone dies at a young age, so people try to procreate and take care of all that as soon as they can- is so original. So there is Rhine, she is just one of the many girls who are kidnapped daily and sold to wealthy men or sold into prostitution. She is bought by a man to become his wife along with two other girls who become her sister wives. Even though she develops an odd but comforting relationship with her sister wives and 'husband', Rhine struggles everyday to find a way out of her prison and back to her twin brother who she left behind. I really enjoyed this book. There were a few slow parts that I skimmed over but the rest of the book made up for that. Also, this book was really sexual, as a book about this can only be, but it was handled in a very mature way that didn't make it awkward or difficult to read. In all, this was a very original book and a great read."
— Sydney (4 out of 5 stars)
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“Lauren DeStefano crafts an all-too-believable future. I loved the world, the romance, the writing—exactly the kind of book I’ve been craving to read.”
— Carrie Ryan, New York Times bestselling author -
“This beautifully written debut fantasy, with its intriguing world-building, well-developed characters and intricate plot involving flashbacks as wella s edge-of-the-seat suspense, will keep teens riveted.”
— VOYA -
“The Handmaid’s Tale for YA readers…DeStefano has an observant and occasionally pitiless eye, chronicling the cruelties, mercies, and inconsistencies of her young characters…It will be intriguing to see how DeStefano develops it as this promising trilogy progresses.”
— Publishers Weekly (starred review) -
“This haunting and inventive tale…combines elements of romance and suspense in a character-driven dystopia…This excellent audio will expand DeStefano’s audience to those who like to read with their ears.”
— Booklist (audio review) -
“This character-driven dystopia, more thoughtful than thrilling, sets up an arresting premise that succeeds because of Rhine’s poignant, conflicted narrative and DeStefano’s evocative prose. Many will appreciate the intense character drama.”
— Booklist -
“Rhine…proves herself to be a heroine who faces her situation with spirit and cleverness. The trapped bride and mysterious husband are straight out of gothic romances. By stirring in elements of sheer creepiness with dystopia and the hot topic of polygamy, DeStafano creates a story that should have broad appeal.”
— School Library Journal -
“Reminiscent of The Handmaid’s Tale with a touch of Big Love…Rhine’s fight for freedom against the clock—and the dissecting table—will leave reader eager for the sequel. Give this one to fans of the Hunger Games trilogy or Ally Condie’s Matched.”
— Kirkus Reviews -
“DeStefano has begun an incredibly detailed adventure, with characters who are multifaceted and engaging. The world she has created is frighteningly possible, and her writing is simply page turning.”
— RT Book Reviews (4 stars)
Awards
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A Booklist Best Book for Young Adults: 2012
Wither Listener Reviews
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5/11/2023
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" Polygamy being the premise of a YA book isn't typical and I suppose that's why I liked it - it was something different. The main character seemed to have a better connection with her husband than with her love interest, which I don't think was the author's purpose but that's how it seemed. "
— Molly, 2/16/2014 -
" An interesting book...but of course I wish there was more romance waaaah "
— Julie, 2/5/2014 -
" I ate this book right up! I loved everything about it: the world, the society, the girls who are forced to be brides. Lauren DeStefano paints a vivid picture of a horrifying society with deft prose and a compelling storytelling style. I am very intrigued and itching to get my hands on the next two books in the series. If you love alternate universes/dystopia, strong heroines, romance, and an impossible-to-put-down story, this one's for you. "
— Josilyn, 1/29/2014 -
" There was just something about this book. Maybe the hope that Rhine found in a hopeless situation (which I still don't see how she found with two deaths). The plot line was overwhelmingly better than the actual story, but it did end as I hoped it would. I'm going to finish the series, but I hate that it'll have a better plot than actual sentences. "
— Nikki, 1/5/2014 -
" Ok... All I have to say after reading other people's reviews.. Is come on let's remember this is a Young Adult Novel. What do you think it will be like? All the people that gave this book a poor review need to reevaluate their book preferences. This is a typical young adult type of read. It was interesting. I have to say the whole sister wives thing is a hard sell for me but still... every book is not going to be me!! The point is to experience new ideas, new concepts and after awhile I did get into it. I like dystopia type young adult books... and I think this one is pretty good. I don't feel the need to evaluate ever character for you.. or list pros and cons. The main character is interesting enough where I will read the next book... I think that's a good enough review...;0)!! "
— Edith, 1/4/2014 -
" I couldn't get into this book. The premise didn't really make sense and had too many holes. "
— Haley, 12/22/2013 -
" Loved it! It was romance, suspense, and slight mystery all in one and leaves you wondering what the second book is like! "
— Phebe, 11/21/2013 -
" It was great! And definitely better than the second one. "
— Olivia, 8/31/2013 -
" I'd give it 3.5 stars "
— Sammy, 8/24/2013 -
" I would prefer to give this one 3.5 stars if possible. I thought the story line was really interesting - but wished the ending had been a little more action packed... "
— Jessica, 8/6/2013 -
" Wow, this was just something else. It's such an interesting read, it really puts things into perspective when you look at how long your life is, and also the freedom you have. I'm about to start Fever; the sequel to this, I'm hoping it's just as engrossing as this! "
— Chelsie, 6/22/2013 -
" Loved the plot. It's a bit dark so be prepared!! But other then that I definitely recommend this book!! It is wonderfully written!! "
— Booklover, 7/25/2012 -
" Horrific story of a teenage girl to escape her murderous father, but also escape her sweet husband. "
— Nidhi, 7/5/2012 -
" LOVED IT! I just wish that the future wouldn't be like that in reality.... Just imagine dying beofre your 21:((( "
— Designer, 6/1/2012 -
" To me, this book was nice brain candy. Some things didn't really make sense. (Like the virus thing...) But somehow I managed to put that aside and enjoy the story. "
— Annick, 4/6/2012 -
" Call me immature but I actually liked this book. Sure, the writing wasn't very good and the narrative bore no intellect (which makes me wonder why these people consider themselves 'writers' at all) -- but the narrative was strong and it was an easy, light novel that passed the time. "
— Abbey, 2/12/2012 -
" Aboslutely amazing! it makes us realize we should be greatful for what we have and to show us how there are people out there living in poverty or getting forced into arranged marriges so sad :( but a great novel ! cant wait to read the second one ! "
— Karina, 1/18/2012 -
" I don't think I can write a better review than Anila has already done here. So if you want to know what I thought of this book, read Anila's review. "
— Julianne, 11/14/2011 -
" Reminded me a lot of The Handmaid's Tale. "
— Nicole, 11/7/2011 -
" i felt locked myself because of the limited character and places..its like reading something and u can't breathe..i don't know what's the point of bringing up his brother over and over again.. "
— MJ, 11/3/2011 -
" Well-developed characters, post-apocalyptic, and plenty of desserts -- my kind of book! "
— Chandra, 10/30/2011 -
" ok so this book is pretty hard for me to review. I liked the story idea and the end result of the book but during the read it was hard for me to understand or feel sympathic during the times I should have felt it. but overall again, I liked the end result of the book. "
— Jc, 10/28/2011 -
" OMG! I loved this book so much. Can't wait for Fever. Review to be posted soon. #boutofbooks #book3 "
— JJ, 10/27/2011 -
" I like how the author expanded the story. it's all so interesting! "
— Anna, 10/25/2011 -
" The book jacket asks a good question- what choices will you make if you know your expiration date? For me, the story itself didn't quite live up to the thought-provoking nature of the question. I'll probably read the next book when it comes out, but it's not like I want it to come out tomorrow. "
— Peggy, 10/25/2011 -
" Interesting read, I had a fun time with it.... but part of that was repeatedly describing the plot as "dystopian Sister Wives", if only because when else would I say that in a sentence? "
— Kyla, 10/22/2011 -
" I give it 3.5 stars i liked it but didn tlove it i will go on wuith the series though :) "
— Tennille, 10/21/2011 -
" I do love dystopians, and this is one of the best I've read. I LOVE IT <3 "
— Slimsmurfy, 9/21/2011
About Lauren DeStefano
Lauren DeStefano is the bestselling author of the Chemical Garden trilogy. The second book in the series, Fever, was a New York Times bestseller. She received a BA in English from Albertus Magnus College and has been writing since childhood. Before becoming a writer she worked as a receptionist, an English tutor, and a tax collector.
About Angela Lin
Angela Lin, an Earphones Award–winning audiobook narrator, graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with a BFA degree in drama. A critically acclaimed actress, her credits include The Good Wife, Law & Order: SVU, and As the World Turns, among others.