UTOPIA COSMOPOLITAN

Author: Theresa W. ISBN: 9781934475102 6/2007 TIME TRAVEL Publisher: AMIRA PRESS

College student Esther Smith, an ordinary girl with ambitious dreams, is transported to a future society, the U.C., in 3000. Inducted as Advisor to the mysterious Prince, Esther plots to investigate the dark secrets hidden beneath this “utopia,” which appears to be a multicultural community living in peace and prosperity. The region bordering the U.C. – the slum-filled “Fringes” – is plagued with poverty and violence. Courted by handsome Advisor Alex, Esther must somehow reconcile the wretched “Fringes” with a “utopia” of cards. Is the truth and strength in her heart enough to save the Prince from his own downfall?

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

I was immediately drawn into the plot of UTOPIA COSMOPOLITAN. It begins with a twist and the unexpected turns continue until the very last page. The formation of a utopian society seems like the perfect plan, but like many well-laid plans, it goes awry. Esther is drawn through a portal and into the utopian world, and its people and their problems quickly become hers. The Prince, the leader of this world, seems accommodating enough, but really, how often are political leaders completely candid? He has some secrets that he doesn't share, and Esther becomes entangled in a complicated political and social dilemma.

This story is very well written and highly enjoyable. Although the intricacies of the governmental issues overshadow the romantic aspects of the story, I thoroughly enjoyed reading UTOPIA COSMOPOLITAN. It is thought-provoking and intelligent, and I hope to read more from this author.

Kay James