Conform by Ariel Sullivan

A gripping debut dystopian romantasy where secrets, rebellion, and a dangerous love triangle collide.

Conform is a strong debut that reminded me why I first fell in love with dystopian romance. The world building feels immersive and unsettling, set in the aftermath of a nuclear war where the Illum control every aspect of life. From the first chapter, I was hooked. The pacing stays tight, and the rising stakes made it impossible to set the book down.

Emeline is an easy heroine to root for. At twenty-seven, she’s lived most of her life under the thumb of a system that demands obedience and conformity, so her initial naïveté makes sense. However, watching her begin to question everything she’s been told and slowly find her fight became one of the highlights of the story. Her journey feels like the spark of something bigger, and I’m eager to see where her arc goes next.

Secrets, Deception, and Dangerous Attraction

Meanwhile, the love triangle between Emeline, Collin, and Hal kept me turning the pages. Love triangles aren’t usually my favorite, but both men are complicated, compelling, and layered with secrets. I found myself wavering between them just as Emeline does. Even so, I’m not convinced either one can be fully trusted. The deception and manipulation throughout the story raise the question: is she simply a pawn in a much larger game?

The unanswered questions, especially surrounding the Reaper, build anticipation for the next installment instead of frustration. As a result, I finished the book eager to see where Sullivan takes the series next. My personal favorite character, Gregory, adds loyalty, heart, and much-needed warmth to the darker moments of the story.

Overall, Conform is an unputdownable debut that will appeal to fans of dystopian romantasy craving intrigue, rebellion, and a touch of romance. Ariel Sullivan has created a world that feels both haunting and hopeful, and I can’t wait to return to it in book two.