A BETTER WORLD by Sarah Langan is set in a dystopian future. The world is on the verge of collapse and people are struggling to get by. However, there are pockets where the air is clean, food is free, a safe environment and there are excellent schools. Welcome to Plymouth Valley, one of these places. When Linda, Russell and their twins are offered the opportunity to live there on a trial basis, of course, they jump at the opportunity. Who wouldn't? They soon discover there is much more behind the walled enclave than beautiful homes and well-manicured lawns.

The author has crafted a remarkable story about a man-made society whose culture is rooted in ancient rituals and delusions of grandeur. A society that is suspicious of newcomers and is class-conscious. Desperate to be granted permanent residency, Linda and her family struggle to fit in. Easier said than done. When Linda, a physician, is offered a position at the community's charity medical center things change for the family. Suddenly they have friends, invitations and a sense of belonging. Why? One fateful night a near tragedy occurs and Linda becomes suspicious about the circumstances. As time passes, Linda finds much more that she can't reconcile. As her family begins to fall apart, they look for a way to escape the toxic situation they have found themselves in. This, too, proves to be easier said than done.

A BETTER WORLD is a dark and eerie story. With few exceptions, the characters are a disturbing lot. Even so, I found this to be a thought-provoking and engrossing story with a shocking ending. Highly recommended.