Zenn Scarlett by Christian Schoon

                Zenn Scarlett is another ARC I received from NetGalley and the publishers Angry Robot.  This book came out Tuesday, May 7th, I'm a bit behind because of my lack of ability to sit down for more than 30 minutes to type.  But here goes, my thoughts on this sci-fi book.

                The story is about Zenn Scarlett, a 17 year old working to make it through her novice year to become an exovet.  What is this you ask?  Well as they live on Mars (way in the future, terra-forming sections and all way cool), she is learning to be a vet…for alien creatures.  Neat and interesting concept right there, can't think of anything else like it which is always a surprise.  Well things aren't that easy for Zenn with her absent father, helping out at the clinic where she lives with her Uncle Ortha, studying while trying to pass her 3 end of year tests that determine if she will move on to her next year in training to do this one thing she's dreamed about. 

                As if all that isn't enough she also has to combat with a series of inexplicable mishaps on the Cloister grounds that threaten their place uncertain.  Towner, Liam, starts to take an interest in the animals and acting extra friendly towards her, despite everyone else in the Cloister thinking they are all disease carrying, man eating monsters.  Then there is the little part where she might be sharing thoughts with the patients.  Talk about stress!  She must figure out if she is going crazy, pass her tests, and figure out what is happening around the Cloister with the help of Liam and Hamish, the Clinic sexton and huge insectoid who is also in training.

                I really enjoyed this book, I liked getting to know Zenn and all the different creatures, especially Katie.   She hasn't had many friends growing up and has spent her life with the animals and cares for each of them and as an animal lover (all be it more the cute fluffy types) I completely understood her.  Her uncertainty at new situations, her concern she is losing her mind, her fears for her future and everything else.  I also enjoyed Hamish and the way he was written, from a planet a society, where he must ask permission to do anything. 

                The book does start just a tad bit slowly but I enjoyed getting a feel for the new world and understanding Zenn so for me the pace worked for this tale.  It has plenty going on to keep you entertained while you zoon right through it, and if like me get your imagination wandering.  I can't wait to pick up the 2nd book and see where Schoon take it from there.  Again Zenn Scarlett came out Tuesday May 7th, I give it 4 Cute Rikkasets, check it out.