Aquifer by Jonathan Friesen is an odd book. It's set in a dystopian Australia which was interesting and unique. While obviously taking place in the distant future, the technology seemed all over to me - many aspects felt almost primitive but then other technologies seemed quite advanced. The ever-present dials perfectly embodied that contradiction - their capabilities seemingly outweighing the archaic wrapping. I didn't understand the technology and most of it seemed unrealistic so I had to reclassify the book from realistic-dystopian to AU-dystopian to wrap my brain around it all. 
 The story started rather slowly, and it had a very melancholy feel. It did a fantastic job setting the mood and environment but since I was awaiting the "story" to start, it felt a little dragged out. But once things got going, I was hooked. The land below-ground was fascinating and I was sad we didn't get to spend more time there. Luca was an interesting character, struggling with trust and unearthing layers upon layers of secrets that his entire world has been built on. And I loved the veiled references to God and faith - it wasn't preachy at all but it hinted and pointed at something more. 
 Romance is very toned down, though definitely on the insta-love side of things. This was more of a middle-grade level book in my mind. I can see this story highly appealing to boys (though girls should like it just fine). The cast reminded me somewhat of Peterson's The Wingfeather Saga, being a bit of a ragtag group of characters. The only thing I wished for was an epilogue or one more chapter to wrap things up a bit. The story ended rather abruptly and with a few questions unanswered. It's like ending Star Wars after the death star explodes but without the ending award scene. 
 And can I just mention that I love the cover. It captures the setting and tone perfectly.