Delirium

Before scientists found the cure, people thought love was a good thing. They didn’t understand that once love -the deliria- blooms in your blood, there is no escaping its hold. Things are different now. Scientists are able to eradicate love, and the governments demands that all citizens receive the cure upon turning eighteen. Lena Holway has always looked forward to the day when she’ll be cured. A life without love is a life without pain: safe, measured, predictable, and happy.  

This story is set in a future dystopian society where love has been outlawed.  Amor deliria nervosa is the name of the disease that people used to call love.  At the age of 18, everyone goes through a surgical procedure that cures them of the possibility of contracting this highly contagious and emotionally crippling condition.  When the story begins, Lena has 95 days left until her procedure and she is set to be paired by the state with a compatible match for marriage.  I don't even have to tell you what happens inside those 95 days.

Of course, Lena falls in love, but the story of her awakening is more than just a tale of romance.  The spiritual power of love is contrasted with the soulless power of the state and as Lena surrenders to love, a near Shakespearean drama unfolds.  Lena learns to follow her deepest longings rather than do what she is told to do. She learns think for herself, speak from her heart and do what is ultimately going to free her from the tyranny of society.  Far from being a disease, love is revealed to be the cure.

Oliver's books is fast-paced and delivers.  It's a book you'll want to read and then pass on to your friends.