Many thanks to NetGalley and RB Media, Recorded Books, for the free audio book in exchange for my honest review. This is narrated by Laura Knight Keating, who does a fantastic job reading and pulling the listener into this dystopian world.

We are in New America, where young girls are assigned a chaperone once they start their period to ensure the women remain protected and pure until marriage. The motto is "Embrace Purity. Navigate the World with Care. Respect Your Chaperone.” Stella has a chaperone that suddenly dies...was it murder and if so why? Stella loved Sister Helen and will now be assigned a new chaperone who may or may not be as caring as Sister Helen. Sister Laura is just what Stella needs with her unconventional wisdom, and with her prompting, Stella begins to consider what's out in the world beyond her bubble and whether there is more to life than protection, marriage and procreating.

I have mixed feelings about this book. I think that most readers have read or are familiar with the Handmaid's Tale. This story is just too similar for me, which I found to be disappointing. Its definitely a softer version so if you enjoyed that series, you may like this one. Also, I see how the author's message that we as a society are ripe to change our social constructs where women are merely baby makers and to be protected at all costs by the men in power, but I think that tale has already been told.

While I did not care for Stella, I did think she was a product of her environment. I agree with other reviewers that more character development and background setting as to how we got to New America would have been nice.

2.5 rounded up. If you do choose to read this, grab the audio version as its well done!

M. Hendrix's "The Chaperone" is a gripping mystery that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Hendrix creates a suspenseful narrative with a strong plot and deft pacing that will keep readers wondering right up until the very end. The narrative centres on Jane Adams, a seasoned chaperone in charge of ensuring the security of a group of students travelling with their school. They set off on what should be a regular expedition, but a string of strange incidents and unexplainable events send them hurtling into an unknown future. While exploring the perilous bends and turns, Jane must discover the answers to the riddles that surround them.
A strength of "The Chaperone" is M. Hendrix's skill in creating tension and keeping it throughout the book. Readers are drawn into the eerie and enigmatic world of the narrative by the author's vivid imagery and detailed words. The disclosure of new information in each chapter keeps readers interested and impatient to learn the truth about the protagonists.
Each of the characters in "The Chaperone" has their secrets and motivations and is well-developed and relatable. Particularly Jane Adams is a riveting protagonist who exhibits resiliency and tenacity in the face of peril. The supporting cast gives the story depth by adding layers of complexity to the narrative through their intertwined relationships and covert goals. "The Chaperone" deftly incorporates themes of mystery, suspense, and psychological delights. The skillfully planned and performed twists and surprises in the convoluted plot will keep readers wondering until the very last page. The whole intensity of the drama is enhanced by Hendrix's ability to establish an air of discomfort and uncertainty.
While reading "The Chaperone" is an engaging and exciting experience, some readers might feel that some story points or character arcs could use more in-depth analysis. Any slight flaws are, however, made up for by the story's quick pace and the author's skill at keeping readers interested. Fans of the genre will enjoy "The Chaperone" since it is a gripping and suspenseful mystery. This book is thrilling and compelling to read thanks to M. Hendrix's skilful storytelling, evocative writing style, and well-crafted tension. "The Chaperone" is an excellent option if you're looking for an exciting page-turner that will keep you guessing right up to the very end.

The Chaperone by M Hendrix

This is the first dystopian YA novel I've read in awhile, and it was an enjoyable experience. The action starts right away and drew me into the premise. Although it's dystopian, it requires very little world building, as the setting is familiar enough.

Stella, a teenager in "New America," finds herself torn between the influences in her life, questioning what is true. She is dealing with the regular teenage issues set against the background of a world that may not make as much sense as she thought.

As much as I enjoyed the story, I think it suffered from pacing issues. There were parts that dragged on too long, and that space could have been used to provide some additional background or to round out the ending.

The narrator was great.

Thank you to #NetGalley and RB Media for a free copy of #TheChaperone by M Hendrix. All opinions are my own.

ARC audiobook provided in exchange for an honest review.

The narrator did a wonderful job on this book! I could always tell which character was speaking and she’s clear and concise. The story is about a teenage girl in a dystopian society within America that begins to question if their way of life is really the right one. The writing was done well and the story flows seamlessly, but for me, there were just no big earth shattering moments throughout. If you like YA dystopian though, it’s definitely worth checking out!

I really really liked the storyline of this book! The narration is perfect!

I love the plot; I enjoy reading books like this with this New America concept; and different societies and how they work. I just wish it was a little more face paced I feel bored at times. But overall I really enjoyed this listen!

I can't express how happy I am to come across this book! I love the setting for books where you experience different types of worlds but this was different. Before I finish this I could say with confidence my favorite was Christina Dalcher (Q and VOX) now I have one more favorite!
The Chaperone by M Hendrix was a mixture of what men want to believe and what's real.
Stella, a girl who grow up in New America doesn't know anything better than be quiet when men speak, do not speak if not asked, "yes sir and no sir" type of girl but deep inside she always knew this is not how it should be. This world where if you are respectable (you have enough money for that) you will have a Chaperone or I would say babysitter who teaches you all this respect but if you are clever enough, brave enough, you will see that there are blind spots... Stella, before she knows it, she is brave enough to stand up for herself.
I absolutely loved the quote: "Other people can always stop you from doing what you want. All you can control is how you respond to what is in front of you!" I just loved it! This is so true!
Stella wants to get out, she wants to know more but can she? Who can she trust? Or better question, is there a way out?
Starting from chapter 65 my heart was beating so far than ever before. I asked everyone to leave me alone as I could not stop and could not leave for later, I needed to know what was coming next.
This book makes so much sense when you had the whole story! Sad, heartbreaking at the same time full of hope and changes, story. Nothing is as simple as you can imagine.
In some way, it makes you think of all the privileges you have and how much you need to appreciate them!

I absolutely recommend this book! I received the privilege from NetGalley to listen to the audiobook narrated by Laura Knight Keating and I am so satisfied! The narrator was clear and entertaining when necessary. 10 out of 10 for the performance.!
Definitely full fat 5 stars for the book! I am so keen to check all the other books by this author!

I could not leave a review on Amazone so will try it later, after the publication date.

Audiobook Review - The Chaperone is a fantastic dystopian YA book. Set in a world not too different from our own our characters must live by the rules of 'New America. In New America young women can never be alone with boys or men and must be escorted by a chaperone in public. Our heroine Stella begins to see the cracks in the society of New America and longs for a world where she can be more than just a future wife. Recommended for all YA collections where dystopian fiction is popular.'

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

Holy wow! This book was so gripping! This was a wild ride and I could not stop listening to this book. This book reminded me of The Handmaids Tale and was just as good. I loved how strong Stella became throughout the book.

The Chaperone is a mix of the Handmaids Tale and The Grace Year (which was my favorite book I read last year). I really enjoyed the worldbuilding and Stella was a great main character with strength and personality and some veiled sass. I hope there will be a sequel to show the next phase in the revolution. I would recommend this to anyone that enjoys young adult dystopian fiction.

Such a great book! This was a young adult dystopian done soooo well.

The main character, Stella is the oldest daughter of a wealthy family in New America. She and her family are living a life of privilege. Yet that privilege doesn't give her (or any other woman) the right to choose their own path. Her father is picking marriage candidates and Stella gets no say. Stella cannot be alone without a "chaperone" when she's out of her home. She's expected to follow her father's instructions to a tee without questioning anything.

When Stella's chaperone is killed, her world is thrown into complete chaos. She questions everything that everyone tells her and isn't sure who to trust. Sadly two of the people she trusts the least are her own parents because something is niggling in her conscience that makes her suspect they are being completely truthful with her.

The story basically shows us how this young woman falls away from her secure life of being "taken care of" and charges into one where she is taking care of and trying to save others. Her evolution and how she gets there is quite a story.

AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: The audio for this book was great. I really enjoyed listening to it because it felt more like I was listening to a performance and sucked me completely into the story. Well done. 5 stars

Thank you to NetGalley for early copies of both the audiobook and ebook.. I voluntarily chose to review both and the opinions contained within are my own.

If you are a young lady, under the age of 18 in this New America world, you can't go anywhere by yourself (they're afraid you'll be kidnapped), you can't spend any time alone with any male (including your own father), and there are other rules you must follow including you must respect your chaperone. Every girl is trained to know these rules from the moment they're born, but there's another rule that also is taught. You are trained to marry and have babies, because the population of New America isn't growing, it's shrinking.
Stella's chaperone Sister Helen passes, only, is it of natural causes? With this event, Stella's world comes to a shocking realization that all is not what it seems, the rules she's been taught since birth...she's now being led by her new chaperone to skirt these same rules, if not outright break them. As Stella is pushed deeper into this newfound freedom from these rigid rules, something happens that leads her on a journey to really push back against all that she's been taught, and even create some new rules of her own.
Stellar dystopian story, very reminiscent of The Handmaid's Tale in that the girls are just as guarded by adults and have so little rights for themselves.
The narrator Laura Knight Keating had a great voice to listen to and had no problems feeling like I was pulled into the story very quickly and stayed there. Great narration.
*I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. This review is my own opinion*

This is a dystopian story, about a surreal (or maybe not) world. It's a story about the misogynistic dominance that men try to impose on women. Eating what wonen feel like or even talking to a boy is something that is not allowed. And a teenager can NEVER walk unaccompanied. Fear is inflicted on adolescent girls in order to shape their personality and not let them think for themselves. I enjoyed the story, but it lacked the surprise factor. I'm a fan of Atwood's work and this story has similarities to "Handsmaid Tail" . Since I never felt surprised, I can't say it was wonderful for me. However, for those unfamiliar with Atwood, this story will make your skin crowl. As a positive point, I highlight Stella's personality. this character is very well created and the story leaves no loose ends.

#Thechaperobe #m hendrix #distopiantail

Engaging audiobook narration for a well-crafted YA novel. The Chaperone will definitely become an unforgettable and haunting story about one girl's fight for independence and freedom. Reminiscent of The Handmaid's Tale and Grace Year, each second builds to a heart-pounding conclusion. I did not want to stop listening and often found myself bringing my earbuds into stores in order to continue the story. The execution of the narration and voice is superb and helps to elevate the story.

In The Chaperone, Stella finds herself on a precipice. Does she continue with the status quo or does she fight for her freedom and the freedom of others? New America, founded on strict beliefs, has broken from the rest of the United States. Under the guise of creating a safer future, the community has instead created a rigid political system where descent and free thought is criminal- especially if you are a female. Life in the United States is still a strong memory of the adults in the community, but something whispered about amongst teenagers. Ultimately, everyone wishes for free thought and the ability to make decisions, and Stella is no different. She has discovered the secrets many of the adults, and men in the community, want to keep secret. The Chaperone is a great addition to the dystopian genre and a must read!

So take The Handmaid's Tale and put it in high school and basically you have The Chaperone. Once girls in New America get their period they're assigned a chaperone and Stella is no exception. She's grown super close with her chaperone, Sister Helen until the woman suddenly dies, leaving Stella to be assigned a new chaperone. Sister Laura is unconventional, and with her guidance, Stella starts to think about what's out there and that there may be more to life than being married and having babies.

This book was just, well, it was very uncomfortable at times. I get Hendrix's incredibly vocal social commentary, I do. And imagining a future society where women are simply incubators for men is very easy to grasp (sadly). I didn't really love this book, nor did I hate it. I really didn't like Handmaid's Tale (flat out hated it to be honest), so the fact that I don't hate this book speaks volumes in and of itself. I didn't really like or care about too-privileged-for-her-own-good Stella (which was part of the problem). The story was timely and poignant, but the characters left something to be desired.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this ALC. Laura Knight Keating was a fine narrator.

I think I loved this book. I've never been big on dystopian fiction, but I do like the type of dystopian where it seems completely normal to those in the society--the dystopian where society as completely broken down and we're desperately trying to fix it, where things we wouldn't even fathom being true are true to these people.

The characters were wonderfully written. I sympathized with Stella's every emotion.

The plot was amazing. I'm so invested in the story. I pray for some sort of sequel with another girl Stella is chaperoning.

I think that there could have been a more tense climax. I was a little let down by the ending just in that I expected her to have to work a little harder for it--maybe fight with her parents about it, be cast out from her family, just have more consequences.

No matter what, thank you for the opportunity to read this book. I look forward to your next one.

This is a story about revolution from within.

This was such an interesting story, but it’s hard to talk about the narrative without spoilers that would ruin the reading experience. I can say that if you enjoy dystopian reads, this is a solid option! I enjoyed the protagonists growth, and will be thinking about the world built here for a while- especially in the current political landscape.

Thank you so much @netgalley @recordedbooks & @sourcebooksfire for the e & audio copies!

The Chaperone was a book that kept me intrigued and invested throughout the entire story. That’s not to say it was not without issues though. The story follows Stella who is a young woman in “New America”. New America is basically a dystopia and women have no rights. They go to school and then get married. Some girls have chaperones because girls are not supposed to go anywhere alone. There are Kidnappings of young girls all around New America but Stella soon learns that there are more behind the kidnappings.

My two problems with the story were that it was too predictable and ended too quickly. As more information was told about New America, we learned about the kidnappings and the chaperones it was very easy to see where this book was going. I said to myself “I bet this will happen” but I also hoped that was not what was going to happen. Sadly it happened.

My other problem was the ending. I don’t think the ending is bad but I just wanted more. I wanted to see where the story would go from where we left Stella. I hope we get a sequel to answer some of my questions.

I requested this one because it might be an upcoming title I would like to review on my Youtube Channel. However, after reading the first several chapters I have determined that this book does not suit my tastes. So I decided to DNF this one.

I love this! I am pretty into a chaperone system, or I was until I read this, because I wish I could rein in my daughter and keep her safe, but yeah it wouldn't be the best thing for the world.
This was so good and so fun. I loved it. I loved the way the society took women back to the Victorian age just to get the women under control and having babies. It was too realistic. That's all the have to too.
This was perfectly narrated too.

This was a gripping YA dystopian book that gives strong "The Handmaid’s Tale vibes. If you are a teen living in New America, you know the rules. The rules are strict and strictly enforced. You will also have a chaperone to make sure you embrace purity, are not alone, abstain from sin, don't draw attention to yourself, and not have unauthorized visits with boys.

Stella's chaperone, Sister Helen died suddenly, and Stella was assigned a new chaperone a few days later. Her new chaperone, Sister Laura, is a little freer with the rules. She gets Stella into secret parties and Stella begins to question everything that she has been taught. Are the rules in place to keep her safe or to control her?

I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed it. This book moved at a very nice pace, and I was fully invested in learning what would happen as Stella began to question things in her life. This is a dystopian coming of age tale that was both gripping and tense. The book begins with the Murder of Sister Helen and an investigation into how and why the chaperone died and turns into a journey toward the truth, freedom, and courage.

I enjoyed Stella and her quiet determination. She wants to be her own person and have her own voice. She was raised to be subservient, and do as she is told, yet she questions and has her own ideas. This book is set in a dystopian world but also mirrors how women have been treated in the past- be seen not heard, know your place, do as you are told, you don't have rights, it's a man's world, etc. It also shows the courage, the fortitude, and the resilience of women. There is a lot of food for thought here.

Gripping, thought provoking, and tense.