For lovers of “Hunger Games” and “Divergent”, “Cinder” by Marissa Meyer is a must-read.

Set after the Third World War, New Beijing is struggling with poverty, a plague and an impending war with a race of people who live on the moon: Lunars. This moon race has the unique ability of mind control, and have decided the moon isn’t good enough. They want the world too. First up on their hit list is New Beijing. The balance between diplomacy and outright war is tipping, and the kingdom is getting anxious.

Meanwhile,  Cinder is a young woman struggling to fit in with the humans as a cyborg. It’s not easy being part robot in a world where robots are treated as slaves. The fact that she’s living with her stepsisters and stepmother who wants nothing to do with her isn’t helping either. But Cinder is determined to get out and make a better life for herself. Until, that is, a change of events makes leaving seem unimportant…

As a narrator, Cinder is great. She’s humorous, independent, strong without being aloof and overall really likeable. Teens are sure to relate to her and her struggles.

But the best part of the book is, without a doubt, the premise behind it. This plot line is incredibly unique and so much different than anything readers will have seen before while still following the makings of a great dystopian novel. The ideas presented in the first book promise great excitement in the rest of the trilogy, Scarlet and Cress.

The other really special aspect about this series is that each character, to a certain extent, is based off a classic fairytale. Cinder mirrors Cinderella in odd ways that readers will find amusing and enjoyable. The whole story parallels the tale, with changes that make the age-old adage a new, exciting read. Everything down to her slipper falling off.. Or something like that.

“Cinder” is a great book that young adults are sure to enjoy. With delicious plot twists, daring romance and exciting action, “Cinder” should be on everyone’s “to-read list.”