<i>Nine</i> from Christy award winner Rachelle Dekker is an eerie and uncomfortable story set in a dystopian world and told at a breathless pace with lots of twists and turns which frequently left this reader at least off balance.

Zoe Johnson lives a quiet life staying away from inquisitive people and keeping to herself - and keeping her uncomfortable past well distanced. Until the day amnesiac Lucy walks into the diner where Zoe works. At first Zoe thinks her biggest concern is to protect the naïve and vulnerable Lucy from the predatory trucker who offers to ‘help’ her, but it is soon clear that the predators hunting Lucy are numerous, ferocious, and closing in fast.

On the run and desperate, Zoe soon questions who – or what – is Lucy? And in many ways, Lucy is asking the same thing. Who is she, what is her purpose, and where does she belong?

Then there is the mysterious Black Project which Lucy is fleeing. And can anyone be trusted?

For the reader, the book raises questions too: Who are we, really? Are we the result of genetics, programming, our own choices, or a mix? Are we what others say we are? Can we change, and what gives us the power to do so?

For those who enjoy Ted Dekker’s novels and those who have already discovered Rachelle Dekker’s novels, this will be a compelling read. Be warned though, you’ll need your wits about you, and this is a graphically told novel with a lot of explicit violence which is not only perpetrated by The Bad Guys. In fact, knowing who The Bad Guys are is not always as obvious as you might think. Dekker writes cleverly in a way which keeps you off balance and uncertain as to some of her characters actions and motives.

FBI Agent Tom Seeley is searching for Lucy - but is he aiming to help her or imprison her? And what exactly are his feelings for Zoe. His attraction to Zoe was for me at least was entirely unconvincing and even at times annoyingly so.

If you're looking for a relaxing read, this isn't it, but if you like complex thrillers with plots and characters you have to concentrate on this is for you. It's a far from cosy read which will keep you questioning right to the end.

A really good thriller that leaves the trio in a good place at the end. The action starts on page one and keeps the pace moving quickly throughout the story. As the good guys struggle with right and wrong, they will learn to care for each other by learning what is good within themselves. The rescue of a young woman who most would thing irredeemable makes a very good story told in the Dekker's trademark style.

Nine by Rachelle Dekker start with a promise, and I watched as the characters raced for their lives, but then about 50% into the book, I had a hard time staying focused. The characters were doing things all science like that didn't capture my attention. I didn't understand why in the beginning of the novel a hero character appeared to be on the bad side, then he flips and helps out the heroine. I was a little confused as to where his loyalty actually lied. As for the plot, it was a little odd and hard to follow. I don't think I would continue to read any other books like this one. I wasn't really found of this story. It started like a thriller, then it turned into a science fiction fantasy that lost my attention. Overall, Nine by Rachelle Dekker didn't thrill me. I had a hard time staying focused. But I imagined fans of science fiction authors like Kathy Tyers might totally disagree with me and love this novel. This is my humble opinion.

I received a complimentary copy of Nine by Rachelle Dekker from Revell Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC to review!
Rating (on a scale of 1 to 5, 5 being excellent)
Quality of writing: 4
Pace: 3
Plot development: 4
Characters: 4
Enjoyability: 4
Ease of Reading: 4

Overall rating: 4 out of 5

“Nine” by Rachelle Dekker was a great suspense novel. This book catches you on the first page and keeps you going until the end! There were many twists and turns along the way. I am very impressed in Rachelle Dekker’s writing. Even though she is young, she writes like a seasoned author!

I highly recommend this novel if you like good, clean, suspense-filled novels. You won’t be disappointed!

I received this from the publisher through NetGalley for my honest opinion.

Rachelle Dekker is an amazing writer in her own right. This book was so well written and held me spellbound from beginning to end. I highly recommend this book!!

Nine is a very well written suspense. A real edge of your seat page turning plot. This one will keep you guessing. Suspense fans will not be disappointed. I received an advance ebook from the publisher and this is my unbiased review.