Thank you NetGalley for the ARC that allowed me to make this review.



Taking place after the Covid-19 pandemic, All Better Now showcases the best and worst of humanity when faced with the idea of an eternal happiness that you may not be choosing for yourself. All Better Now is not a book that tries to persuade you one way or the other, but rather equally presents multiple ideas on the concept of a virus that has the ability to make anyone permanently happy.



I was surprised to like this book, though I first had to press on through the beginning, which is a bit of a slog compared to the rest of the book. You can tell the author found a momentum after the first couple of chapters. I love all the characters - they're very well done, and it's easy to imagine where all of their motivations come from. I found myself particularly drawn to Mariel, one of three characters I would refer to as our protagonists. She, like the reader, does not maintain the same opinion throughout the book, which feels very human of her.

The plot, for being another pandemic novel, was well done. I didn't find it boring, or as if I was simply back in 2020. There were also details that were included to make everything feel real - rather than explaining it all away with big ideas, we see the consequences of everything that's going on. I enjoyed that the ending was final, but still left what happens after up for interpretation.

One thing that tripped me up big time was realizing that all three main characters were teenagers. Morgan is an adult at 19, but Mariel and Rón are both under 18 (though close to it). For a part of the characters that would be so vital, I was thrown off to read, over 50% of the way in, that any of them were that young.

Overall, this book gave me the impression of the type of thing you might pull off the family bookshelf on a boring Saturday and read through the entire thing in one day, encapsulated by the story and what happens next. It feels like a classic with a modern flair.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review!

In All Better Now, the world is in the throes of another global pandemic: Crown Royale. But this pandemic has an unexpected side effect. Those who contract the virus and survive are eternally content, no longer able to feel negative emotions such as grief, anger, depression, or anxiety. While a world of happy people sounds great, the consequences of this new outlook from those who recover splits public opinion. There are people who view the virus as dangerous and as an erasure of a person’s true personality/humanity, and there are people who view the virus as a gift, and it is their responsibility to spread this gift throughout the world, despite the 5% mortality rate. The lives of three teenagers, Mariel, Rón, and Morgan; are all impacted by Crown Royale. As their lives converge, the fate of the world hangs in the balance.

This is a YA novel that’s more than a YA novel. It’s a societal commentary that can be analyzed and discussed by readers of all ages. The pace of this book was exactly right, and the build up to the meeting and convergence of our three main characters happened at the perfect time. The third person point of view in this novel allows readers to see the motivations behind each of the three main characters’ moral/ethic code and compare that to the readers’ own moral/ethic code.

One thing I love about Shusterman‘s writing is his ability to give importance to every single character that is introduced. It doesn’t matter if the character is only seen for a single interaction- the interaction will have meaning. This is something that I noticed in his Arc of a Scythe series, but also very prevalent in this novel. I also found interesting was that this book seemed to hinge on the debate between self interest versus the greater good. However, as we saw through the lens of the characters, one enduring human trait seems to be the tendency of people to rationalize their beliefs and actions to make these one and the same.

The book ends with a bit of a cliffhanger, and I could easily see this turning into at least a duology, if not a series. However, I also think that leaving the end of the story, a bit open-ended also serves its own purpose. I believe it really forces the readers to sit with this novel and its moral and ethical implications. It will make the reader question what they would believe if this dystopian scenario were to occur in real life. My one complaint about this book is that it is a bit long, and took me longer than expected to get through. There was never a clear point in the book where the plot felt like it was dragging, but I had to read the middle in chunks each day as I went through the story.

This is a book that I will definitely be recommending, and I truly hope that I can convince people to read this book- mainly because I would love to have conversations with people about the moral/ethical implications. I think it was just truly fascinating and I’ve never read anything like this. Shusterman is so skillful and creative with making these dystopian worlds that, although are clearly dystopian, also don’t seem so far removed or far-fetched that readers can’t imagine this happening. No one thinks that they’re going to live through a world changing event- until they do. Shusterman is really great at tapping into that boundary between what is within the realm of possibility, versus a concept too far from our grasp of reality.

This book has a fascinating premise with complex, engaging characters. At times the story felt like it jumped around, but everything tied together by the end; Shusterman is a master plotter. Though in some places the writing felt too over-the-top, I appreciated the nuance and moral quandaries that make this novel so interesting and important. Overall, this is an amazing read and has great food for thought. Fans of Shusterman’s other dystopian novels will not be disappointed.

Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for the free eARC. I post this review with my honest opinions. This review is cross-posted on Goodreads and will be posted to Amazon upon the book’s publication.

I was already a fan of Neal Shusterman, especially "The Unwind" series before I started reading "All Better Now." He has a knack for coming up with creative premises that are both entertaining and thought provoking. This is no exception. Filled with engaging characters, a well paced plot, and some truly unexpected twists, I couldn't put it down. Highly recommended

Thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers for an advanced reader copy.

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Thank you @simonteen #partner for the gifted copy of this book!

Being that Scythe was my absolute favorite book last year I may have screamed a bit when I got this one in the mail! What a unique and interesting concept once again that Neal has dreamt of! A virus that spreads and after the initial effects wear off most people find that they are more happy and content with their lives. Not only that but willing to help others and just be a better person in society. What could be better than that utopia? Naturally like anything in life the threat of power makes people do things out of character and the results can be disastrous!

After reading Scythe I will forever read any and all things Neal writes. He creates a one of a kind book with characters that are impossible to not become invested in. This book will make you think deep thoughts and especially begs the question “If you were given the gift of happiness and could feel no other emotion…is that truly a good thing?” my favorite parts of this book were the dystopian world Neal created and watching both side fight desperately for what they felt was right. My only gripe about this book is I wish Covid was left out of it. I still don’t feel like I want to read about it. And although this one was a variation of Covid I just wish it wasn’t mentioned. It’s a me thing. 😅 The behaviors and effects of the infected were also unique to watch! If you love a tension filled adventure, a fight for what’s right, an exploration of what’s morally right make sure to grab this one!

This is a thought-provoking and timely read that delves into the complexities of a world transformed by an unprecedented virus. What I found particularly compelling was the way the author weaves together the perspectives of three teens from different backgrounds, each grappling with the impact of the virus in their own unique way. Their journeys are both relatable and heart-wrenching, making it easy to become invested in their fates. The book does an excellent job of highlighting the tension between those who benefit from a discontented society and the growing movement of Recoverees who believe in spreading the virus to save the world. The ethical dilemmas and moral questions raised throughout the story kept me engaged and made me reflect on our own society's values and priorities. The final chapters, in particular, were a powerful culmination of the various plot threads, leaving me with much to ponder.

This is a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction and anyone interested in exploring the deeper implications of a world where happiness is both a blessing and a curse.

Wow! What a ride that was!

I’ve read several Neal Shusterman books. The Unwind series is astounding, and I still think about Challenger Deep all the time, so I jumped at the chance to read this book in advance of its release. I was a little wary of reading about a pandemic, but I took a leap of faith—and I was handsomely rewarded.

All Better Now begins when the new pandemic is just days from becoming very serious. Shusterman wisely avoids mirroring the actual politics and rhetoric surrounding COVID too closely in order to imagine what the next pandemic could be like. What if the transmission, symptoms, and mortality were all basically the same, but the outcome was shockingly different—and maybe even positive? What if, instead of returning to normal or experiencing long COVID, survivors emerged blissful and content?

The story had an entertaining mix of likeable and unlikeable characters, people doing things I like and things I don’t. The plot had just enough twists and turns to keep the story moving steadily, with intense action scenes that occasionally made me forget I was merely reading. Shusterman gives us a global perspective on this pandemic without giving us too much to keep track of. There was a jaw-dropping twist at the very end that could leave room for a sequel, but I hope there isn’t one because this story was beautifully built and concluded.

I appreciated the insight into characters afforded by switching perspectives, and I also appreciated the diversity in characters’ ethnicities. It seemed very natural instead of forced for social gain. I’ll admit that it’s still spooky to read about COVID in the past tense. I’ll also admit that I’m interested in everything Neal Shusterman writes. This book was no exception. Read it!

Many thanks to NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for an honest review!

Okay I tried to stay mostly spoiler free but there might be some hints to things in here that you want to avoid.

Where to even start with this book 😱

If you thought Dry was a lot, buckle up for this one!

Let me start by saying I DEVOURED this book. I did not want to put it down. I woke up early to read it, I read it on breaks at work, I was so completely engrossed.

This is a magnificent work. All the characters had their own unique drive and storyline while still all interconnecting in this complicated web. Just masterfully done all around.

There aren’t enough positive words to be able to express how much I loved this book. But as much as I loved it I was also horrified by it at many parts. Neal has a shocking talent for writing stories that are just close enough to reality to actually be scary. This felt heavily in that category, especially in the wake of Covid.

I loved and hated every single character and by god THAT ENDING?!? Neal please, why???

If I had one tiny complaint it would be I wish we got more at the end but I do understand the vision with the current ending.

I also just wanna applaud him for how action packed this book is. I didn’t realize until I was trying to explain all the moving parts to someone but there is like five active storylines at one time and they are all doing different things but you gotta remember who did what because it’s coming back around. Just so complex overall that I’m actually very grateful I read it because had I listened to it instead I might have missed a lot of the foreshadowing going on.

I have so many thoughts and feelings and reactions that I’ll probably be working through for a while but overall it is absolutely amazing! Be prepared to lose your social life to this book! Could not recommend more!

My Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

A new pandemic has arisen. Crown Royale kills 4% of the infected and rewires the survivors with permanent happiness, generosity, and selflessness. Opinions are sharply divided as to whether this will save or destroy humanity. Rón, the depressive son of a billionaire, is desperate for Crown Royale's bliss. Ruthless Morgan has just been given a fortune to ensure the virus' destruction. Practical, homeless Mariel occupies the midpoint, able to see both the benefits and the perils of this watershed moment. Shusterman presents another tapestry of high emotions and horrifying possibilities populated by inevitably interconnected teens.

3.5

First, I love Neal Shusterman. “Challenger Deep” is one of my favorite books and believe it should be required reading. I was so so SO excited to receive this as an ARC. The premise is an intriguing thought experience on what happens when a virus has the ability to eliminate all negative feelings. As a therapist, this was a gold mine to read.

What is a world where our ability to feel hurt, pain, grief and need ? No depression?? All that remains is inner peace, who wouldn’t jump at the chance? This books does a decent job at making a case for why all feelings are important and serve a purpose, even the painful ones. Feelings are just messengers, what happens when you kill the messenger?

For me, the writing is superb, as always. I flew through this - a very compelling read. That said, this post-pandemic dystopia was rubbing salt in a still-healing wound. There are mask mandates, races to a find a cure, and misinformation running amuck. The timing just hit too close to home and left me cringing at the mention of ‘rona.

This is a smart book, great character development and asks big questions. I love a book that gets under my skin and makes me itch, no pun intended. If I read this 5 years from now, maybe I would have slightly less pandemic PTSD.

Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my always honest reviews.

Final grade: B+, not all better…yet.

I wasn't quite sure what to expect with a book about a pandemic, but this book puts a different spin on it. Sure to be a YA bestseller!

Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read this in exchange for an honest review.

Although an interesting premise, this one ultimately fell a little flat for me. I didn’t understand if the author was trying to make the pandemic into a metaphor or what he meant to do? And I couldn’t get my mind off of that.

Neal Shusterman’s newest book series is sure to go viral! With interesting characters and a page-turning plot, readers won’t be able to put it down!

What if a new pandemic either killed you or made you a person who was compelled to take care of others? What if you were surrounded by survivors, so happy in their new mindset, and you found yourself immune to the virus and longing for the peacefulness that surviving it brings? What happens to the economy if people stop consuming and look to repair or recycle everything? What if the oligarch survivors start giving their money away? What would their heirs do if their parents caught the virus?
How much would governments pay for scientists to create a vaccine and is a vaccine the only way to solve the problem?
This dystopia, on the heels of the Covid pandemic, poses a lot of interesting questions for discussion.

All Better Now is a Young adult dystopia exploring a pandemic that fundamentally changes the personalities of those that survive its virus.

The interweaving of the three main character's story line's was a particularly interesting element of the reading experience and I loved getting to see of how people starting in such different areas of pandemic experience effected each other.

A tale of a virus that causes death or blissful happiness. Some people want to contract it others want to eradicate it. Being someone who has read and loved 7 novels from this author I am disappointed. What I did enjoy is the concept of the plot but way too long of a novel.

Between the endless introduction of characters, to the repetitive word usage, to the lack of a entertaining storyline, to a forced romatic partnship, to a rushed ending. I did not enjoy.


Thank you Net Gallery for the ARC of this novel.

This book is definitely going to find an audience somewhere, but that audience is not me. I found this book pretentious and insufferable. I hated Rón, one of the main characters. Every antagonist (Glynis, Gelen, and Morgan) were comedically evil, to the point it didn’t even feel like they were real antagonists. The fact that they were purposely spreading a disease with a 5% mortality rate (1 in 25 people die) was just upsetting. Sure they’re happy for the last few minutes of their life but that’s it. Mariel and Belas are the only two characters who I had any semblance of care for. The rest of them were terrible. This felt underwhelming and the climax lasted one chapter. It didn’t feel eventful and none of the events tied together nicely. I know somebody will enjoy this book, but I think I’m just past this type of YA!

“What is a pandemic if not a kind of storm?”

“We always have choices. Even if they’re all bad ones, we still get to choose.”

“What makes you think truth and happiness ever share the same bed?”

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for letting me review this book. Neal Shusterman is one of my favorite authors; with “The Scythe” series being my favorite. This reminded me somewhat of Covid when it first started. People are getting the Crown Royal virus and some are dying yet others aren’t. This feels almost dystopian yet could be happening now. There have always been outliers and those that are virus carriers yet are immune. It’s interesting to see how people will react to the virus and it eerily mirrors what’s happening in the world today since Covid sprang up.

Thanks to Simon and Shuster and NetGalley for the digital egalley of this book. I am so sad I did not like it more. I LOVED the Scythe series but I don't know if this one is still too close to the Covid pandemic to have another pandemic book or if it was the characters attitudes to spreading the virus and to the idea of a vaccine but I could not get behind this book or the characters.

Mein Leseerlebnis

Endlich habe ich mal ein Buch von Neil Shusterman gelesen. Und auch wenn ich mit gemischten Gefühlen zurückgeblieben bin, so bin ich doch froh dem Jugendbuch (Thriller trifft Dystopie) eine Chance gegeben zu haben.

Die beiden Highlights im Buch waren für mich ganz klar der mitreißende Schreibstil des Autoren und seine Fantasie. Die von ihm geschaffene Welt wirkte auf mich faszinierend.

Doch leider gab es beim Lesen auch ein paar Punkte, die für mich nicht perfekt waren. So gab es Mittelteil meinem Empfinden nach einige Längen. Die Geschichte hätte auch gut mit weniger als 500 Seiten erzählt werden können.

Zudem wirkte es beim Lesen immer mal wieder so, als würden die Hauptcharaktere primär als Vehikel benutzt, um verschiedene Einstellungen zur Pandemie darzustellen. Sie selbst blieben in meinen Augen dadurch etwas blass, weshalb ich sie mir teils schlecht als richtige Menschen vorstellen konnte.

Nimmt man das zusammen, dann lande ich bei einer mittelmäßigen Bewertung. Es war interessant, mal etwas von dem Autoren zu lesen, zu weiteren Büchern von Shusterman werde ich in Zukunft aber wahrscheinlich nicht greifen.

🖤🖤🖤 1/4

Für wen?

Wer Jugendbücher spannend findet, in denen eine ganz besondere Pandemie und der Umgang damit im Mittelpunkt steht, für den könnte der Roman eine tolle Sache sein.