
Member Reviews

*Nil* by Lynne Matson is an intriguing young adult science fiction novel that combines mystery, survival, and romance. The story follows the protagonist, Charley, who finds herself on the mysterious island of Nil, where time behaves erratically, and no one can escape. On Nil, people have only a year to find a way off the island before they are taken by a strange and dangerous phenomenon known as "The Blink."
Matson's writing is suspenseful and engaging, creating a tense atmosphere that draws readers into Charley's struggle for survival. The world-building is immersive, with Nil's rules and unpredictable nature keeping the characters—and readers—on their toes. The romance between Charley and Thad, a fellow islander, develops gradually and adds an emotional layer to the story without overshadowing the survival aspect.
Though some aspects of the plot may feel familiar, the novel's unique setting, high-stakes premise, and character-driven narrative make it a captivating read for fans of YA sci-fi and thrillers. *Nil* is a quick, gripping adventure with plenty of twists and turns that will keep readers hooked until the very end.

I had a great time reading these books! This world of Nil was so interesting to read, and I just wanted to know what the heck was going on, and to know if these characters would survive! Well, there are two more books, and I need to know what's going to happen next!
Nil Remembered gave us a quick look at this world, and it was short and intriguing, and had me needing to read the first full length book. I loved the way that it was told, that we got Scott's journal entries, and it was a really great story!
And then we got Nil, and got Charley's story. We know a little bit more of what was going on then her, but not much. And honestly, things were pretty awful for these characters, that they had just a year to figure out a way off this island, while also trying to survive. Not good times! But not all terrible, what with her developing relationship with Thad.
The particulars were so interesting to read about. The society that these kids have made, the different threats that they face. As well what the way out is, and the developing theories as how Nil came about, and how getting out works, it was all so interesting to read! And I'm really excited to read more!
These were such great reads, and I can't wait to continue the series!

I unfortunately was not able to read this book. I was excited when ever I had chosen to download or pick this book up on Netgalley. However, time moves by so quickly and I never got to read it.

There was no sense of danger despite the fact that death looms if they overstay their welcome on the island. This is due to the amount of insta love that it overshadows everything else. It completely fails to create a sense of urgency for their predicament and instead they’re just blithely combing each other’s hair instead of taking anything seriously.
There are resources in abundance, with fresh fish, fresh fruits like pineapples and citrus fruits and mangoes. They aren’t limited to that, because occasionally, a pig walks by to be killed.
The premise of the island is dumb; it doesn't make any sense because it's not the top priority. It feels more like a tropical vacation with a bunch of teenagers that are slightly panicked about a deadline.