Book Review: Configured: The Configured Trilogy, Book 1 by Jenetta Penner
From the moment I stumbled upon Configured, I felt an electric pull—maybe it was the tantalizing promise of a dystopian landscape where emotions are deemed dangerous, or perhaps it was the idea of a young woman navigating a world where love could mark her as a traitor. Jenetta Penner’s debut has proven to be a refreshing entry into the crowded dystopian genre, and I couldn’t wait to dive in.
At the heart of Configured is Avlyn Lark, a character who feels deeply in a society where feelings are not just suppressed—they are vilified. The world Penner has crafted feels eerily familiar yet unique, echoing the themes of novels like 1984 and The Giver while standing firmly on its own. Avlyn’s journey begins as she faces her Configuration Day, a pivotal point where she must embrace a future planned out for her by a government that values utility above all else. This gripping premise explores the tension between emotional individuality and societal conformity, a theme that resonated deeply with me.
What struck me most about Avlyn was her complexity—her struggles are relatable, and her yearning for connection struck a familial chord in me. The writing is beautifully polished, with Penner weaving rich imagery into her narrative. Her style flows effortlessly, engaging readers from the first page. Lines that lingered in my mind include moments where Avlyn reflects on her deceased brother, a haunting reminder of the toll that repression takes on our emotional connections.
As I navigated Avlyn’s world, I was particularly drawn to the nuanced exploration of family dynamics. Avlyn’s relationship (or lack thereof) with her adoptive parents serves as a microcosm of a society that has sanitized expressing love. It made me ponder real-life parallels: the ways society often prioritizes structure over genuine connection. One reviewer aptly noted that this book "pulls you in and compels you" to keep reading, and I found that to be completely accurate; I devoured it in just a few sittings.
The pacing is brisk, yet Penner manages to balance action with emotional depth. There’s a hint of romance—a burgeoning connection with a rebel character, Meyer Quinn—that adds an intriguing layer to the story without overshadowing the central theme. While some aspects of their relationship felt a bit rushed, I appreciated that Penner leaves room for that development in future installments.
In closing, if you’re a fan of thought-provoking dystopian YA—especially those exploring themes of individuality, love, and rebellion—then Configured is a must-read. Penner’s debut not only offers an exhilarating ride filled with suspense but also invites us to reflect on our own meaningful connections in a world that often prioritizes efficiency over empathy. I’m eagerly looking forward to the next book in the series, and I hope fellow readers will join me in this journey through Avlyn’s world. It’s a story that lingers, challenges, and ultimately inspires—a true triumph for a debut author.
You can find Configured: The Configured Trilogy, Book 1 here >>