In 2035, the gap between economic classes has grown (more than it has in recent decades). The children/teenagers of the wealthy have become a commodity, kidnapping a regular industry. Charity Meyers wakes in a guarded ambulance. She tries to remember events leading to her predicament, and tries to forget, because it is the best way to survive the ordeal. She concentrates mostly on past events in order to retain her sanity. When jarred into the present, she wonders if she should go along with the kidnappers' wishes or if she should be looking for an opportunity for escape.

During some moments, she realizes her life has significant drawbacks. Befriending one of the kidnappers gives them both a deeper understanding of life and the situation. When faced with the deviations from the plan, Charity is forced to decide what she wants in her life.

The kidnapping part of the story is interesting, as well as some of the memories and interaction with the youngest kidnapper. The motivation behind the kidnapping is a huge twist, with an intriguing ending. Charity's previous life is annoying, but I guess it is meant to be. I did see some parallel's to current events, though they are exaggerated in the story. Overall, a depressing story, but absorbing.
related-kidnapping, social classes, gated communities, dystopia, life choices
RL=YA