Behind the beauty is heartache… unless their love can save them.Neve Hall has always admired the good works of the civil servants who brought prosperity back to the Nation. She especially respects the Sufferers—empaths who, with the help of technology, anonymously bear others’ troubles for them. But when her assigned empath is abruptly retired, she uncovers certain secrets. Like the identity of … secrets. Like the identity of her new Sufferer, Micah Ward… and the fact that behind his kind smile is a life filled with loneliness and pain.
The closer Neve grows to Micah, the more desperate she becomes to protect him from a cruel and gruesome fate. But in a world where only a few are allowed the luxury of love, saving Micah comes with a price: Neve must choose between her loyalty to the Nation or her heart—a decision that will take them both on a race for their freedom, and their lives.
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North to Nara (Crimson Sash Book 1)
By: Amanda Marin
5 out of 5 stars
The story North to Nara (Crimson Sash Book 1) by Amanda Marin is an amazing book that I loved reading. It takes place in a dystopian world. I found that the author does a wonderful job of describing this world and how those in society live. The story had me feeling like I was right there with the characters, feeling and experiencing what they did. The book had me turning pages and wondering what is going to happen next. My emotions went up and down while reading this story. There are both heartbreaking and heartwarming moments. I loved reading about the characters of Neve Hall and Micah Ward. They are characters that you can’t help but grow to care about and want them to be happy. There is a choice that has to be made. Will Neve choose loyalty to the Nation or to her heart? What does the future hold for Neve and Micah? Read this book to find out. This is a story that had me thinking about it even after I had finished the last page. It will hook you in from the beginning. This is a book that I would recommend reading. It is the first story in a series and I look forward to reading the next one.
This book absolutely captivated me. I was drawn in due to the marvelously written characters that somehow felt just like family! Written in the first person, Neve
exhibits a maturity beyond her years. Her loyalty and high ideals are wonderful to behold! I found myself rooting for our young hero and heroine every step of the way in their journey to Nara! I was totally moved by their love story and didn’t want the book to end. There is enough action, strife, and obstacles in their dealings to keep you on the edge of your seat!!! The descriptive writing of Ms. Marin was lovely. I could truly see those cherry trees! Thank you for a wonderful book! I definitely will be reading the next in the series!
Sky to Sea: Crimson Sash- Book 2 by Amanda Marin is a YA dystopian romance that is filled with suspense and action, fear and longing, love and suffering. Amanda paints a vivid and clever picture of the world she has created and her character building is spot on.
Neve and Micah are learning to live a new life after escaping from the Nation. They build their lives on the hope that they will be given refugee status and are doing everything they can to make that happen. But they continue to live with the horrors and the pain and suffering they were dealt before reaching New Republic and now must seek help.
Unfortunately life is never that easy and they find themselves in danger of once again being in the clutches of the Nation.
I look forward to the next book in the series.
North to Nara (Crimson Sash Book 1)
by Amanda Marin
I was hooked on this story as soon as I started reading it. This author did an amazing job bringing me into the story so much so that I felt like I was there along for the adventure. I fell in love with Neve and Micah’s story. I couldn’t help myself but to keep turning pages to find out where their story would lead, I found myself wanting it to work out for them. There is a lot of up and down emotions throughout this book.This was a story that I highly recommend and you won’t want to miss out on. I cannot wait to see what’s in store for us in the next one.
North to Nara by Amanda Marin is the first book in the Crimson Sash series. This is a great start for a new series. Set in a dystopian world the story follows Neve and Micah. The two are not supposed to be forging a relationship but cannot resist one another. I really liked the characters and the relationships between the primary and secondary characters. Between the building of a world, story and characters I did not want to put this story down. I am looking forward to where the series goes and hope to see some of the secondary characters be featured more. There seems to be many interesting stories to come.
North to Nara (Crimson Sash Book 1) by Amanda Marin
5 Stars
Oh My Goodness..I loved this story, I kept trying to slow myself down so that it would not end quite so fast. Neve and Micah’s story was heartbreaking…their crime? Love and holy moly following them and their story was completely addictive. I want more like right now! LOL
This is a dystopian novel and is told in a way that’s a bit different then Im used to. Everything in some parts felt so normal and real then theres the other parts that reminded me there was nothing normal about it.
I’ve only recently started choosing dystopian themed stories and this one went far and beyond my expectations. The cover is absolutely gorgeous and the story was no different. I loved the family aspect of this story (especially Rafe’s part in it) and the friendship between Neve and Tali which I hope is in future books of this series.
Oh I wish I could go on and on about the storyline but I’m not going to, I just can’t wait for the next and to see what lies ahead for these two people.
The writing in this story is absolutely beautiful and the smooth flow will have me watching for anything and everything this author brings us!
LOVED LOVED LOVED IT!!!!!
Gotta say, the first thing that drew me to this book is that it sounded a lot like the Giver mixed with a splash of 1984. Second would be that the girl on the cover looks like Mila Kunis.
I have always been extremely empathetic and the fact that in this world, there are empaths to deal with your pain for you is intriguing to say the least. The life of one such empath could ONLY be one of loneliness and pain so for our main character Neve to want to bring love to the life of the man who replaced her former Sufferer really hit me right in my easily activated little tear ducts.
I am so excited that this is the first of a series. I hope it is a long one!
Sidenote- I am hoping for a prequel novella, if not a complete novel. A world like this needs some introduction and I would love to hear more about the Nation beforehand.
North to Nara (Crimson Sash 1) By Amanda Marin was unlike anything I have read before. The way the author grabbed me with her words, her world she created, and such amazing characters I was able to get lost so easily in this amazing world. The society of this book really is what helped draw me in, as it is a dystopian world. I loved the heartbreak, I loved the heartwarming, I loved feeling like I was right in the middle of this amazing book.
When Neve is given her empath is quickly retired, she is given Micah. As they grow closer, she knows that behind his smile, there is a story that tells a tale of loneliness and sadness. She knows empaths are not given the life of love and she has to decide does she follow her heart or the love of her nation?
Not many words stay with me, but, Behind the beauty is heartache…unless their love can save them, has become a favorite quote. An amazing five star read that I HIGHLY recommend.
North to Nara (Crimson Sash Book 1) by Amanda Marin
5-stars
North to Nara by Amanda Marin is an incredible read from start to finish! This is the first book in the YA dystopian series titled Crimson Sash, and what a great start to a series it is! Amanda wrote with so much detail that I could easily picture everything playing out in my mind and I was able to easily connect with the main characters, Neve and Micah.
This storyline is captivating, intense, addicting and so riveting. I read it in one sitting as I couldn’t bring myself to put it down. I can’t wait to continue with this series with book 2!
North to Nara (Crimson Sash #1)
By Amanda Marin
Rated 5 stars
This story enthralled me. I couldnt put it down nor stop thinking about it. It has a dystopian setting and forbidden love. A good combination. I seriously read faster and faster just waiting for the ax to fall. Assuming it would but never really knowing. All I want Is these two star crossed lovers to have a happy ending but it’s so impossible. Arg!!! Frustration!!
My thoughts and emotions ran a gambit while reading. Hope, irritation, scared, love/hate, frustration, and elation and anger are just to name a few. They were for the characters, the world and the situation. Speaking of characters they were all wonderful. Using terms like “lion” to describe the Sufferer really helped me to get a quick idea of his looks and disposition. The friendship between the girls was fun as well as her lovely family. Even the far off secondary characters added some insight and helpfulness. I need to mention them because even though they had little parts the author made their impact large.
This is a wonderful start for a debut book. The author created a world that makes you want to know about it. She invites you in and then dazzles you with characters you can hope for, dialogue you can *sigh* at an intricate society that engages your brain. I highly recommend this to anyone who likes dystopian stories with characters you can love.
I eagerly look forward to the next but sad it’s so far away….
4 Stars
“The Suffering helps build compassion and unity among our people…. By transferring pain and sadness into the souls of those with the greatest aptitude for empathy, we ensure the happiness and prosperity of the .”
North to Nara is the first book in the Crimson Sash Series and debut novel by Amanda Marin. It is quite an original YA dystopian romance, with sci-fi elements, fantasy, suspense, action, adventure, and clever world building.
Neve Hall lives in a seemingly Utopian society where civil servants keep the society prosperous and united. “Nation First” is every citizens pledge, and they are expected to put the nations ‘needs’ even ahead of their own. Citizens in good standing have the privilege of attending The Centre for Compassion every week, where a Sufferer (a professional empath) will ‘take’ the pain and sadness from the individual, replacing it with strength- the whole process is done anonymously. But what happens when her ‘regular’ Sufferer is replaced? What happens when Neve discovers the identity of her new Sufferer? What happens when she begins to understand what he endures in the name of the nation? And what happens when feelings get involved- especially in a society where love isn’t allowed for all citizens? So, what happens when she begins questioning everything she thought she knew/believed? This story is well worth the read to find out.
This was a great debut novel, with an intriguing storyline and interesting characters. The cover is beautiful and immediately drew me to the book. It was a little slow in parts, and there were places that felt like a bit of an info dump. But this didn’t detract to much from my overall enjoyment of the story. I did enjoy the story and will definitely read the rest of the series. I look forward to seeing what else Ms. Marin can do.
Thank you, Ms. Marin!
North to Nara (Crimson Sash #1) by Amanda Marin was a really good book. I think it demonstrates how many of us start out. We think we live in a wonderful world, everything looks perfect, everything seems perfect. Little by little we see the worms in the apple. Neve begins to see the worms in the apple when Micah catches her eye and suddenly nothing is as it seems. This is a great introduction to wonderful series.
5/5 Stars
North to Nara (Crimson Sash #1) by Amanda Marin
This is the first book I’ve read by the author and it will not be my last. North to Nara is such an amazing read. As the first book in the Crimson Sash Series it’s an amazing introduction to the characters.
Neve, a sieve, falls head first for a Sufferer. Little does she know things are going to change. For the first time ever she’s going to break the rules. The quote I choose for Neve is: “You wouldn’t be the same person if you’d been made a Soldier. I like this Micah Ward, not whoever you wish you became to make someone else happy.”
Micah, a Sufferer, is the only son to the Wards. When he finds out who he’s Suffering for things change. He finds himself trying to keep everything a secret. The quote I choose for Micah is: “What they don’t tell people is that Suffering isn’t all sacrifice. Our pain and loss makes us stronger, too—it makes us care more deeply and appreciate simple happiness better than anyone.”
I do highly recommend this for anyone who likes a good love story.
North to Nara is the first Crimson Sash book, a dystopian YA series by Amanda Marin. Marin paints a picture of the Nation, built on loyalty (following the Expulsions which dealt with those who were not loyal) and strict rules and consequences.
Neve Hall is in many ways a classic YA dystopian heroine. Confident and independent, she is fascinated by the animals which have long since left the Nation. The more she learns about the secrets that keep the Nation running smoothly, the angrier she gets and the more determined to fight for change. Young activists will relate to her sense of justice and willingness to put herself at risk for what she believes in.
Micah Ward is a Sufferer – a fascinating profession that involves him taking on the pain of others so they can go about their lives unhindered. As such, he is empathetic and caring. He is also required to follow a rigid code of conduct which, amongst other things, forbids him from entering into any romantic relationships.
The worldbuilding in North to Nara is fantastic, really setting the reader up for the rest of the series. The story is a bit of a rollercoaster as Neve and Micah face danger and challenges to their beliefs and loyalties. I couldn’t put it down – I had to stay up late to find out what happened! And I’ve got the sequel ready so I can get onto it asap.
For me, this is a five star book. Really enjoyable story, with a world that highlights flaws and risks in our own societies. Perfect for teens and young adults who are concerned about the environment and social issues.
The first book in the Crimson Sash series and it does end on a cliff-hanger. A well written story by an Author I have not read before. Neve Hall and Micah Ward’s story has suspense, drama, danger, murder, twists, turns, the Nation that is not what it seems, escape, and forbidden romance. I want to read the next book. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
North to Nara (Crimson Sash Book 1) by Amanda Marin is a dystopian novel. This was a captivating read with the excellent imagery of another world outside of reality. The level of detail with the society, the interactions, the characters and the events that occurred was on par and completely well done. Neve Hall was a fierce character with undeniable attributes that hold true to her beliefs and values; when those are tested, Neve’s life is subject to twist into another direction. Amanda Marin has outdone herself in this initial novel to the series, Crimson Sash, from the development of the story line to the main and supporting characters. The way the emotional waves are written, you can practically feel them dripping from the pages at times. This story held my attention and I looked forward to each new chapter to see where we were heading next. Well written, excellently delivered – a great story!!
North to Nara by Amanda Marin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
North to Nara (Crimson Sash Book 1) by Amanda Marin – Review by Jessica Ranslow
Since discovering dystopian themed story lines, I have read several. Although I love the idea of seeing how the author sees a potential future world or society, I don’t always find that the story holds up to my hopes or expectations. Amanda Marin did not disappoint in how she described and painted the literary picture of a society after the “Expulsions”.
Neve Hall admires the work of the civil servants, but she respects and admires the Sufferers the most. These are the servants who are chosen to take on all of the pain, suffering, anxiety, or fears of the others. When Neve’s assigned Sufferer is suddenly retired, Neve unintentionally witnesses the exchange and is bothered by the things she is beginning to see around the Nation. Each person is anonymously assigned a sufferer so when Neve then accidentally learns that her new Sufferer is Micah Ward, the Sufferer who she has seen showing a level of compassion that is unusual even for the empathetic servants, she is torn between admitting that the anonymity has been compromised and wanting to have an opportunity to be close to Micah.
As Neve and Micah grow closer, Neve becomes desperate to change Micah’s inevitable fate, but at what cost? How far with Neve go to protect Micah and fight for love?
This book grabbed me from the beginning and kept the pages turning long after I should have turned out the lights.
It would be easy to compare this book to so many great books to come before it. Divergent, Romeo and Juliet and maybe a dash of A Handmaid’s Tale come to mind. This takes the best part of those stories and turns them into a pure beauty of a novel. While this may be a story of doomed young lovers, it is also about how society judges and how it is slow to adapt, something we could learn from in my opinion. This is the first book in the series and I think it did a great job getting me to be invested in the characters and the situation in which they find themselves. I found myself sitting on the edge of my seat flipping pages to see what was going to happen next and I can’t wait to do it some more in the next book.
North to Nara (Crimson Sash Book 1) by Amanda Marin
Four Stars
North of Nora presents a time that I would never like to see. A time where we are under dictatorship. I never want to be put in a position where it could mean life or death. Where my freedom is taken and I am marked as a traitor. Micah is a strong and brave character and I liked him more when he stood up for Neve. The whole story was deep and slightly emotional. You have these teens that just want to live but there are laws and people to fear. The author really makes you think with this story. Not only because of the outcome or the steps taken to get there. But because this could very well be our reality. This could happen to us. The author plays with you for a while and then does the unexpected. Yeah I’m hooked on this story.
North to Nara (Crimson Sash Book 1) by Amanda Marin
4 out of 5 stars
This dystopian fantasy novel is a fantastic debut novel to this series. This story was both vibrant and enigmatic. I was hooked from the first chapter. This is very reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet of the star crossed lover’s territory, without the tragic double suicide. Very forbidden love.
Neve and Micah are both intriguing characters that are very engaging and you will easily fall into their lives, their wants and their desires. Micah is so sweet to Neve and Neve supports Micah with all of her heart and soul. The emotion between these two is so strong you can feel it through the pages.
Ms Marin did an incredible job of creating a world full of vibrancy, emotion, and passion. I am looking forward to the rest of the books in this series.