In this provocative cautionary tale for teens, the sequel to Awaken, seventeen-year-old Maddie’s rebellion against the digital-only life grows dangerous. Maddie is in Los Angeles, trying to stay out of trouble. But one night, a seemingly small act of defiance lands her in the place she fears the most: a detention center. Here, patients are reprogrammed to accept a digital existence. Maddie is now fighting for her mind, her soul, and her very life. Once again, Katie Kacvinsky paints a disturbing picture of our increasingly technology-based society.
Series: Awaken
Awaken | Middle Ground
Source: ARC from Publisher
Expected publication: November 20, 2012, by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Interest in Book
If you’ve been paying attention, you know that Awaken was a book that spoke loudly to me. I was very wrapped up in the possibility of the scenario. I was also very affected by experiencing Maddie’s awakening, when Justin assists her in “unplugging.” It was beautiful to watch her reconnecting with her senses and experiencing emotions she never knew existed. Being that I’m a social worker, I understand how very important socialization and social support is for human beings, and this series really drives this point home.
World-Building
The world expands in Middle Ground as Maddie endures a life-altering trip to a detention center for her rebellious behavior. In Maddie’s world, detention centers take care of those who are unwilling to remain plugged in and participate in a mostly-digital life. Digital School brought safety and security to society, at the cost of togetherness and intimacy. Maddie’s father is the creator of DS, so her involvement in the rebellion to bring intimacy back to society is quite the scandal. Maddie’s experience in the detention center is horrific and we learn a lot about what is being done to keep society in check. I think my only real issue with this scenario was how easy it was to sneak around inside the detention center. I get that security was low because they control the students psychologically, but it just seemed too easy…
Characters
Maddie grew a lot in this installment. She was always brave and stubborn, but she really puts herself in serious danger to save many. I found myself rooting for her, then yelling at her, many times. She surprised me with her mature, selfless decisions, though I should not have been surprised. Maddie has always been willing to go the extra mile or 50 to do what is right. And then we have Justin. Geez. I might have to add Justin Solvi to the tippy top of respectable, amazing, glorious book boyfriends. I didn’t think I could adore him more, but I certainly do. What grabbed me most were his vulnerable moments. As Maddie pointed out numerous times, he certainly has issues letting people in and being intimate, and in Middle Ground, we learn why. Justin has been carrying around a lot of guilt and Maddie does her best to encourage him to remove the blanket of guilt and shame from his heart and soul. Those moments between them were so damn beautiful.
Gabe is worth mentioning, as I find myself thinking a lot about him during this review. Gabe works in the detention center and was integral in the dangerous planning by Maddie, Justin, and gang. I think he was a huge part in keeping Maddie sane throughout the story. Of course, all the characters that have befriended Maddie throughout this series, and continue to fight the good fight with her, are great in their own ways. Love them.
Lasting Impressions
It appears that we are going to have a third book in this series, as Maddie leaves us hanging with yet another heavy decision that she must make. In the end, I know she will do what she feels is right for humanity, but she will not be bullied. She has become quite the strong heroine, and she and Justin will stand up and fight until the war is over. Together.
Giveaway
FYI: This is the same giveaway from last week’s interview.
All giveaway entries across the blog tour will be entered to win a grand prize: One (1) signed copy of Middle Ground and Maddie’s Journal (US Only). I AM SO JEALOUS. 
Don’t forget to check out my interview with the author here, and all of the blog tour stops!
© 2012, Smash Attack Reads. All rights reserved.
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thanks for the great post and giveaway! This book sounds fantastic
I need to start this series. It looks amazing. Thanks for the great reviews and for the giveaway!
This sounds so good. I had never had any interest in the series before but nice review Smash.
I always feel good when reviewers love the second book in a series. Second book syndrome has kept me from starting too many new ones these days.
Yea, I can understand that. It definitely happens! I was surprised at where this book led, but I loved it. The characters are my favorite piece. Justin! Love him. Completely looking out for everyone but himself, even at the expense of his own happiness. Truly admirable character. I love Katie’s writing, too.
Love that the MC’s become such a strong character. Bullies suck!
She really has become a serious character, in terms of standing up to the system. I love who she has become, even though she endured serious trauma to get it.
I read AWAKENED and LOVED it. I can’t wait to read MIDDLE GROUND. I hope I win!!!
WOW! I remember the buzz around Awaken. The concept sounded fabulous, haunting & cautionary. I’m sadden that the 2nd is coming out & I haven’t gotten my hands on the first yet. I must get this series. I must get my English cert so that I can use books like this with my students. Thanks for a great review & giveaway opportunity. *crosses fingers*
I really enjoyed the first book and have been looking forward to Middle Ground. I’m glad to know the second book is good too. I love that there is really good character growth too. Thanks for awesome review and the chance at the giveaway.
I read Awaken and loved it! Can’t wait to read her other books!
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