Possession by Elana Johnson

From Goodreads:

Vi knows the Rule: Girls don’t walk with boys, and they never even thinkabout kissing them. But no one makes Vi want to break the Rules more than Zenn…and since the Thinkers have chosen him as Vi’s future match, how much trouble can one kiss cause? The Thinkers may have brainwashed the rest of the population, but Vi is determined to think for herself. 

But the Thinkers are unusually persuasive, and they’re set on convincing Vi to become one of them….starting by brainwashed Zenn. Vi can’t leave Zenn in the Thinkers’ hands, but she’s wary of joining the rebellion, especially since that means teaming up with Jag. Jag is egotistical, charismatic, and dangerous: everything Zenn’s not. Vi can’t quite trust Jag and can’t quite resist him, but she also can’t give up on Zenn.
This is a game of control or be controlled. And Vi has no choice but to play.

The world in this book was so interesting. You are thrown in from the beginning, so it does take a moment for you to really get into the world and the characters. Once you are there, you are caught in trying to figure out what is going on and who is good and bad. It takes some time since it seems that the whole world has been thrown on it's ear and turned upside-down. What is called good is bad and vice-versa. You aren't allowed to think for yourself and the smallest infraction can land you in "jail". It is a world not easily understood as the plot is not easily understood, but in sticking with the book things start to sort themselves out.

As for the characters, I must say I absolutely loved Vi who is a true survivor and is just beginning to understand she has powers that are extremely rare and wanted. Vi also has a huge sense of right and wrong which is surprising and wonderful given the world she lives. However, I do believe this sense as well as a healthy dose of rebellion came from the people who were closest to her: her father, her sister and her "intended" Zenn. As far as the other characters, I admit I loved them a lot less. Her other love interest Jag was not my favorite person. In fact, I didn't like him at all. I even admit to cheering when she would finally have enough of his attitude and behavior and call him on his actions. However, that did not last and he didn't seem to change. I just don't like the hypocritical nature of someone who demands truth from someone, but refuses to do so himself. Honestly, if there are teams, I'm total team Zenn... well, once he is free to think for himself.

So, all in all, I give this book with the awesome cover 3 stars. Vi saved this book for me. Oh and I also warn you about the ending. If you aren't one to cuss out loud, this ending just might make you do so.

I received this eARC from the publisher and no compensation for my review was given.