A very dark novel. Many horrific moments but I really enjoyed reading it. Don't go into it with your eyes closed though. There is no sunny outlook I this book. Still I like a good dystopia YA and look forward to reading the next book. ( )

While the read was an enjoyable one, I felt the pace moved too fast to really picture what was happening. I love the premise, and would have loved to know a bit more about how this world operates, or to get a glimpse of a normal daily life in Furnace. But the prose was solid, the story was exciting, and I'll be continuing on with the series. ( )

This book is not a good one to read while you're eating ( I tried it, but it was too disgusting), or if you're hoping for a relaxing read. It's great for fans of fast-paced, suspenseful thrillers. The monstrous characters in this book are incredibly horrifying - in a good way. Fans of The Hunger Games, Maze Runner, or Gone will love this book. ( )

Lockdown, the first book in the Escape from Furnace series was a fast-exciting novel grabbing the reader right from the start and never letting go until the very end. Alex is a typical bully who escalates into a thief. During his last robbery his best friend is killed by strange men in black, some with odd looking masks on their faces. Alex is framed for his friend's death and is thrown into a prison for violent young offenders called Furnace. What a great beginning for a series of books. Reminds me a little of the television show, Prison Break, as well as the book series, I Am Number Four. ( )

After violent riots by youths led the the murder of numerous people youth crime is now treated harshly and those convicted of murder face mandatory life imprisonment at a purpose built hell hole named Furnace.

A young man is set up and see his friend and partner in crime murdered, then he is framed for the killing and sent to Furnace where he learns it is more than just a prison.

It's an interesting story and I certainly thought the scenes were vivid and articulate. The sense of despair is conveyed well by the author, in a way it kind of reminded me of the Shawshank Redemption with the cruel warden, although obviously substantially different.

Looking forward to the next installment. ( )