Review: What's Left of Me

Book One of the Hybrid Chronicles

By Kat Zhang

Genre: Science Fiction

My Rating: 4 stars

Summary taken from Goodreads.com: "I should not exist. But I do. 

Eva and Addie started out the same way as everyone else—two souls woven together in one body, taking turns controlling their movements as they learned how to walk, how to sing, how to dance. But as they grew, so did the worried whispers. Why aren’t they settling? Why isn’t one of them fading? The doctors ran tests, the neighbors shied away, and their parents begged for more time. Finally Addie was pronounced healthy and Eva was declared gone. Except, she wasn’t . . . 

For the past three years, Eva has clung to the remnants of her life. Only Addie knows she’s still there, trapped inside their body. Then one day, they discover there may be a way for Eva to move again. The risks are unimaginable-hybrids are considered a threat to society, so if they are caught, Addie and Eva will be locked away with the others. And yet . . . for a chance to smile, to twirl, to speak, Eva will do anything."

Once I heard the intriguing concept behind this book, (and saw that gorgeous cover!) I just had to get my hands on it.  And I'm so glad I did.  I loved how the story was told from Eva's point of view and the way the narration had to be told when two souls share one body.  Genius.

The characters are unique and well-written, though it did get a little confusing since many of the characters (those who are hybrid) have two names and personalities.

I did wish we were told a little more about why each person is born with two souls (was it always this way?  Genetic mutations?)  But, when you consider it's a novel, it's easy to immerse yourself in the story and forget about the logistics and just enjoy the story as it unfolds.  This was a great start to a new series that I highly enjoyed reading.