Book review - Perfected

Title: Perfected
Author: Kate Jarvik Birch
Genre: dystopia/alternate reality
Similar books: The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing by M T Anderson
                     Eve & Adam by Michael Grant and Katherine Applegate
Rating:

Surprisingly good at first, but kind of a let down towards the end.

Summary: In Ella's world genetically modified humans, such as herself, are kept as pets by the rich and powerful. When Ella is purchased and brought to her opulent new home her life becomes more than she'd ever imagined. As time passes, though, the perfect mask begins to slip and Ella wonders if freedom is worth giving up the privilege that comes with her life.
My opinion: It is hard to imagine a society that would allow people to be kept as pets, making this a hard sell. We read with a healthy dose of skepticism. It accomplishes its goals fairly well. W see the dichotomy of the opulence that surrounds Ella, which is is almost a part of, with her role as a pet, sort of sub-human. Ella's self-discovery and growing longing for freedom are nicely paralleled by Penn and Ruby's own unhappiness and need for fulfillment beyond what their parents expect of them. The book isn't all perfect. Penn is highly idealized and the ending isn't particularly cohesive, but over all it's a strong read.
More information: Perfected releases July 1.
Advanced Reader Copy provided by NetGalley.