From the first page to the last, readers are immersed in Rhine’s bleak world and will easily empathize with most of the characters. Rhine’s narration is spectacular and vivid and the pacing is so wonderful you won’t know what hit you when you’ve read the last page. While the subject matter might put people off, DeStefano balances the creepy and cold by endearing readers with a spark of human connection — reminding us that love can exist in grim situations.With an eloquently adult voice, DeStefano raises the bar for YA readers. Mixing fantasy, and the apocalyptic sci-fi Wither is the perfect book for all. If you haven’t read it yet, you’ll be missing out.