The Review

“Yours for the Taking” by Gabrielle Korn is an absolute gem in the dystopian sci-fi genre, and let me tell you, I devoured it like there was no tomorrow.

Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous year 2050, where Earth grapples with the dire consequences of climate change, the story unfolds within the confines of the ambitious “Inside” project. Jacqueline Millender, a reclusive billionaire and women’s rights advocate, spearheads this colossal undertaking, promising a sanctuary in the face of global peril. As Ava, Olympia, and Shelby navigate Jacqueline’s increasingly unhinged vision of empowerment, the cracks in her system become apparent.

The author, Korn, meticulously crafts a tale that interweaves the lives of Ava, Olympia, and Shelby against the backdrop of Jacqueline Millender’s ambitious project told through various points of view as well as through excepts from Jacqueline and Shelby’s contrasting novels.

Korn’s portrayal of Jacqueline’s ambitions and the societal dynamics within the Inside kept me on the edge of my seat. Ava, Olympia, and Shelby each brought a unique perspective, making the narrative rich and thought-provoking. However, there was a large cast of characters given the scale of the project. While still easy to follow, I wish Korn had organized the characters similarly to how Naomi Alderman did in “The Power,” as I feel it would have allowed the story to flow more smoothly.

What ensues is a mesmerizing exploration of queer love, betrayal, and chosen family, encapsulated within the overarching critique of cis, corporate feminism. Korn adeptly employs the dystopian genre to hold a mirror to contemporary societal constructs, delivering an unflinching analysis of prevalent issues.

The multifaceted characters navigate a narrative landscape that seamlessly blends intricate societal reflections with personal growth. The reviews preceding this commentary resonate with the work’s merits, capturing the essence of its thought-provoking themes and character dynamics.

Noteworthy is the compelling examination of toxic feminism, capitalism, and a myriad of other societal constructs, rendering the novel an immersive exploration of complex themes. Korn’s narrative unfolds with a pacing that sustains engagement, a testament to the meticulous planning evident in her debut work.

“Yours for the Taking” leaves an indelible impression, challenging readers to reflect on the societal constructs it scrutinizes. It stands as a noteworthy addition to the dystopian fiction landscape, offering both an engaging storyline and a critical examination of contemporary issues.

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Short Review (AKA TLDR)

Dystopian gem ‘Yours for the Taking’ by Gabrielle Korn, set in 2050, explores survival in weather-safe havens led by Millennial tycoons. The narrative weaves the lives of Ava, Olympia, and Shelby against the ambitious backdrop of Jacqueline Millender’s Inside Project. The story, though compelling, could benefit from streamlined character organization. Korn’s debut delves into queer love, betrayal, and corporate feminism, skillfully using the dystopian genre to critique societal constructs. Fast-paced and thought-provoking, it tackles toxic feminism, capitalism, and gender norms. A captivating blend of speculative fiction and social critique, leaving readers anticipating Korn’s future works