Review of Conform by Ariel Sullivan
Have you ever picked up a book that felt like it was crafted just for you? That’s exactly how I felt when I dove into Conform, Ariel Sullivan’s stunning debut novel. With the chill of fall creeping in, I was on the hunt for that perfect book club pick—one that would spark debate and discussion—and this one absolutely delivered. From the moment I cracked it open, I was hooked, and I knew I needed a buddy to scream, swoon, and overanalyze with. Now, I’m here to share all my thoughts with you!
Set in a dystopian world where societal norms become tethered to rigid beauty standards, Conform tells the story of Emeline, a girl teetering on the brink of her identity in a space that feels both glamorous and suffocating. If you’ve ever wished for a story that melds the chilling atmosphere of The Handmaid’s Tale with the social commentary of The Uglies, you’re in for a treat. Sullivan has expertly crafted a universe that’s both visually stunning and deeply insidious, with Emeline’s journey up from her dreary Minor Defect quarters to the luxurious, yet oppressive, skies above creating a visceral experience.
The themes of conformity versus individuality resonate strongly throughout the narrative. I found myself grappling with Emeline’s sheltered existence, thrown into a world that challenges her views and choices. Boy, does this lead to some questionable decisions on her part! I loved yelling at her, imploring her to make smarter choices, but ultimately that’s part of the pull. The emotional resonance did feel a bit muted at times—perhaps after reading more intense dystopias, I yearned for a deeper dive into the horror of her reality.
Sullivan’s writing style is engaging; the pacing had my heart racing, especially toward the last 25%. The character development took strides, and though I clocked a few key twists early on, I couldn’t help but feel tantalized by the morally gray areas the plot explores. I’m still wrestling with who exactly I’m rooting for. And Collin? Let’s just say, he might have stolen my heart. The man’s quiet competence and protective instincts had me swooning, embodying those “High Reeve vibes” perfectly.
As for the side characters, they are delightful additions to the mix. I loved the dynamic interplay, reminiscent of fan-favorite tropes, especially for those who enjoy a little banter as foreplay! And let me not forget about the romantic entanglements—there’s a secondary storyline that had me cheering for its development. But look out for that love triangle! It’s well-structured yet daring, and I can already hear the rumbles of outrage from the fan base regarding how it might play out in the sequel.
In conclusion, Conform is a binge-worthy, action-heavy read that begs to be discussed. Whether you’re a fan of morally complex characters, sharp tension, or simply need some fresh fuel for your book club debates, this one is definitely for you. While I found some aspects of the world-building needed more depth, the potential for this series is immense, and I can’t wait to see what Sullivan brings to the table next. So grab your friend, scream about your crackpot theories, and get ready for a whirlwind of emotions. Trust me, you’ll want to join in on the discussion!