Delirium

by Lauren Oliver

Lena lives in a world where love is forbidden. In fact, it's considered a disease. Symtoms include sweating, nervousness, stomachaches, and lack of ability to make decisions. The Book of Shhh, the manual all citizens live by, even declares that, left untreated, it can cause death. Lena's mom died of the disease.

At the age of 18, everyone is given "the procedure," which renders them incapable of love. They still get married and have families, but really couldn't care less who they end up with. They just live their lives; calm and drama-free. But there are people, they say, who live in the Wilds. People who have run from the procedure and chosen to live outside of society. The very thought terrifies Lena, until she meets Alex, who turns her world on its head.

Lauren Oliver rocks! This is her second novel, and while I didn't love it like I loved Before I Fall, it was still definitely a page-turner. A few unanswered questions left me a little annoyed--it is the beginning of a series, after all, but for the most part it was a fast, intense read that I really enjoyed. I'll be in line for the sequel. If you liked Matched, by Allie Condie, you have to give Delirium a try.