Arch-Conspirator by Veronica Roth

 Arch-Conspirator by Veronica Roth-112 pages

This is a futuristic, dystopian retelling of Antigone. The world is desolate (supposedly) except for one lone city. Women are compelled to give childbirth when at the proper age to proliferate the dwindling population. However, having kids naturally is frowned upon and undesirable. Antigone and her siblings Ismene, Eteocles, and Polyneikes were conceived naturally and are, therefore, considered pariahs and to be without souls. People's souls (ichor) are extracted from their corpses and stored in the Archive to be selected from later for children. Antigone's and her siblings' parents are killed in a revolution/uprising and their uncle, Kreon, takes control of the city. He allows them into his home, but only out of self-preservation/common courtesy and not because of any attachment felt with them. Revolution is never far away in this post-apocalyptic city. When a terrible event happens, Antigone breaks the rules out of love. Will she be executed or given another punishment? I thought this book was an okay read, but far too short and not enough depth of character. I rate it 3 out of 5 stars.