I am finding it hard to compose words that will describe how I feel after finishing this book. The only word coming is “WOW.” I’m not sure this was the best choice to read during a pandemic, but it was wonderful even as it was grotesque and lingers with you when you’re done. Hetty and her friends at Raxter School for Girls have been given some simple instructions - stay in the school and don’t die. They call what’s come the Tox and it leaves no one unchanged. It’s been 18 months and most of the teachers are gone as well as about half of the students. They’re barely surviving on the small supplies they get from the CDC and the Navy. Each girl is changed differently - some have gills, a second spine, two heartbeats. There’s layers of secrets that are about to tumble like a house of cards. This book was gripping and scary as it was completely believable. Evolution at it’s scariest. A perfect October thrilling read!