Review: The Nightmare Virus by Nadine Brandes

About the Book

Some viruses go after the body. But the Nightmare Virus goes after the mind.

When dream technology goes wrong, a virus spreads across the globe, trapping people in a universal dreamscape. They call it the Nightmare Virus.

Cain Cross is determined to find a cure . . . if he can decipher his brother’s chicken-scratch formula notes. But when he gets infected, he has only 22 days until he’s trapped in the mental prison forever. Now, every time he falls asleep, he must fight in a Nightmare Arena until he earns his freedom to live in the “new world” that exists only in the mind.

Then he finds a way to manipulate the Nightmare—to change it by mere thought.

Forced to navigate a world of nightbeasts, mistblades, and half-truths, Cain turns his focus to survival. When the Emperor offers him a LifeSuPod—and access to a cure—in exchange for a dangerous favor, Cain thinks he’s found a way out. But Cain’s new power threatens to take him on paths that jeopardize his very soul.

Will he continue searching for a cure, or will he swear allegiance to the Nightmare? And the bigger question might be . . . will he even have a choice?

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MY THOUGHTS

This was one of my most anticipated books of the year. I’ve loved all of Nadine Brandes’ books, so I had very high expectations for this one. It did not disappoint. It exceeded all of my expectations, and, I’ve gotta say, this is my new favorite.

This was such an imaginative and unique story. It captivated me from the beginning, pulled at my heartstrings, and, in a concerning turn of events, even invaded my dreams. Or should I say nightmares?

This was fast-paced, exciting, and impossible to put down. My anxiety grew as time ran short. The characters were in serious peril, and I couldn’t figure out how everything would turn out alright in the end. There were twists and turns galore; I never knew what to expect next.

While Cain was likable, he started off the story very bitter and angry. Which was understandable considering all the chaos and uncertainty surrounding him. Things were bleak, and it didn’t feel like there was any hope left. But, something to remember, something that I think most people tend to forget in times of trouble—there is always, always hope! Sometimes you have to look a little harder, but it’s always there.

This was such a powerful and impactful story. One of light vs. dark. Of finding hope even in the most hopeless of situations. I loved it so much and know it will stay with me for a long time to come. I highly, highly recommend it!

FIVE STARS