Review Detail

I admit it. In the recent influx of dystopia stories I find one big thing missing: diversity. As a former bilingual teacher and also someone with Mexican heritage, I wanted to see more than just the usual Anglo characters.

KILLER OF ENEMIES introduces readers to a harsh, unforgiving future of haves and have nots. Seventeen-year-old Lozen is Chiricahua Apache and a prisoner of Haven. She's a hunter of the monsters that were unleashed after a mysterious cloud came and changed her world. She has to hunt the monsters or else her family will be killed. Lozen might come across as hard and unfeeling but she has special gifts that help her survive. She, and others within Haven, realize she's 'special' and want her silenced. But fate might have other things in store for her.

What worked: The rich background which includes Lozen remembering the Apache folk tales her father and Uncle told her. Reader learn there is much more to Lozen. I loved how not only are we introduced to the stories but also to some survival techniques of her ancestors.

Lozen isn't one-dimensional at all. Rather we get a glimpse inside of her fears, wants, and struggles. Family is important to her. Readers see how important and to what lengths Lozen will go to in making sure they survive.

Did I mention Lozen is a hired killer? She has one secret that the Ones(psycho leaders) in Haven aren't aware of: she can hear the thoughts of others including the monsters she stalks. Lozen is strong, courageous, tough, and also vulnerable. A true heroine I know my former students would have looked up to. That's the beauty of stories like this one. The diverse characters reach out to a growing audience out there. I want more!!!

Action packed dystopian tale set in a gritty future with a courageous heroine who draws strength on her rich Apache heritage to help her survive.

Another Tu Books winner!