Carve the Mark by Veronica Roth

Let me begin by addressing the element of racism everyone is talking about in this book. Was there prejudice between the different races? Yes! Was this the only conflict in this book? No! Race alone, or should I say skin color did not cause these groups to hate each other, It was their cultural differences, their belief structures that made them enemies. For that reason Ms. Roth has again created a stunning literary world  with skill and grace. We did not hear this outcry when the obvious prejudice was so obviously evident in Divergent. Factions isolating themselves because of differing beliefs and talents did not bother anyone, so what reason do we have for allowing this to hurt our feelings? Literary content in this book was grade A. The author did not just build a world, she created a universe! The characters had depth and yes conflict was a part of their depth, but already we are seeing these characters evolve. Too bad we are often too petty to grow ourselves. I detest racism, but this book does not embody that deplorable state of mind. If anything it does hi-light the injustices judging people by their births alone can cause. 

I purchased this book in hard copy and audio format. I highly recommend the audio. It was beautifully read. 

I give the book 4 out of 5 stars. 

I give the audio performance a 5 out of 5 stars