Convergence by Kearstin Dunn 🐺
(The Soulbound book 1)
★ ★ ★ ★ .5
I enjoyed and loved this far too much that I am so eager for book two! This YA dystopian delivers an oppressive government, a rising rebellion, animals, and magic. The divide between bonded and exiled was intriguing. You either stay below and learn your magic or exiled to Earth’s toxic surface to face death for being unbounded.
The whole concept bonding to any animal reminded me of the movie The Golden Compass, which I rewatched with my kids after reading this book.
I loved Lennon so much! Faced with impossible decisions, she would always choose her brother. Her loyalty to him was both risky and brave. The tension between her and Slade was simmering. As a romance girly, there wasn’t a lot going on, but I could totally feel their chemistry whenever they were together.
That last line in the final chapter had me take a pause. I cannot wait to see how this story unfolds!
+ peep my bearded dragon photobombing in the last slide 🤣
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Reading 'Convergence' by Kearstin Dunn felt like stepping into a richly imagined dystopian world where magic and survival intertwine deeply. The idea of bonding with animals offers a unique twist that resonated with me, especially recalling how it reminded me of 'The Golden Compass.' There’s a palpable tension between the oppressive government and the rebellious factions, which added layers of suspense and kept me hooked. What stood out most was the character of Lennon. Her fierce loyalty to her brother, often making choices that put both of their lives at risk, brought a heartfelt human element to the story. It’s refreshing to see a protagonist whose bravery comes from love and sacrifice rather than just heroism. The simmering chemistry between Lennon and Slade, subtle yet powerful, felt very authentic and added emotional depth without overpowering the main plot. The book's themes about societal division—those bonded to animals and those exiled to a toxic surface—sparked thoughts about control and freedom. It made me appreciate how the strongest bonds can sometimes mean both protection and constraint, a nuanced perspective explored throughout the story, as echoed in the tagline from the book's imagery: "Sometimes the strongest bonds are the easiest to control." If you enjoy dystopian worlds infused with magic, animal companionship, and rebellion against an authoritarian regime, then 'Convergence' will definitely captivate you. The blend of fantasy and real emotional stakes makes it more than just an adventure; it’s a journey about trust, resilience, and what it means to truly belong. I’m eagerly awaiting the next installment to see how the story unfolds and how Lennon’s journey continues amidst these escalating challenges.