Format: Audiobook narrated by Lynne Thigpen

In the near future, the American landscape is much changed by the ongoing financial and environmental collapse. Lauren is a empath, able to feel the pain of others, and the daughter of a Christian minister. However, she feels herself called to the stars, and to the notion that "God is Change" with a religious fervor. When her walled community is raided and her life becomes defined by that change, she sets off on a journey north to hopeful safety, and begins spreading the word of her faith.

This is a remarkably well-written novel telling a story that I just couldn't find myself terribly invested in. Characterization is mostly excellent, the world feels well realized and messy in ways that feel genuine. But I guess roving gangs of the apocalypse is a dystopian environment that I'm pretty burned out on, and this book isn't bringing anything new to that concept that really engages me. But the excellent prose and characterization does go a long way, and another big benefit buoying this up in particular is Lynne Thigpen's audiobook narration, which really gives an authentic voice to this narrator and this story. This kept it interesting for me throughout, despite much of it losing me.