Ace of Spades

Maybe a 3.5?
I like the book a lot if I don't think about it too hard or if I was prepared for it to be like an allegory type novel. I like basic plot structure, but there are certain parts that take it a step or three too far. If I was prepared for the mythic proportions of the story, those “too far” moments wouldn't bother me so much.
I loved the characters of Devon and Chiamaka. They are not typical teen characters and I love the way they expand the possibilities of what teen characters can be. I loved that they were not a good team and had to work out some issues to get on the same page to fight the bad guy.
I think I shared most of what I didn't like before. But one other thing that distracted me from the story was the amount of romance or hooking up. Maybe it was supposed to be distracting, like to put us in the mind of the characters further. Not sure, but I don't think all of it was necessary for the story.
The epilogue was a great addition to the story and really helped wrap everything up.
If you are considering picking up this book, be prepared for mythic story telling and I think you will enjoy it more.