97. Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

This is the second book in The Hunger Games Trilogy.  I loved the first book and was not disappointed with Catching Fire.  We follow Katniss and Peeta as they return to District 12.  Things are considerably different than before the Hunger Games took place, but there is great conflict between Katniss and Preisdent Snow, the leader of their world.  Rumors of rebellion across the twelve districts are being heard and President Snow hold Katniss to blame.  With her life and those of her loved ones in grave danger, she does all she can to mollify the president and still hold true to her principles.  While some of the action is a repeat from the first book, Collins is able to create different dangers and turmoil to afflict the victims of the despotic ruling class.  There is so much intrigue and suspense that the book is hard to put down.  Plus the story is one that remains in your thoughts.  Katniss is truly a memorable character and I really enjoyed her.  At first, I was a little put off by a repeated storyline but I soon became engrossed in the action.  My only complaint with this book is the abrupt ending.  What a cliffhanger, and I don't even know how long I have to wait for Book Three.  Rats.  These books remind me a bit of a book by Gerald Lund, The Alliance, where a super strong central government, even though much more benevolent than the Capitol, still strives to control all those who are under its power.  It's one of my favortie Lund books and features similar struggles by people who want more freedom in their lives.  Definitely put me in the ranks of all those who are loving this trlogy. 

Rating:  4.75