INITIAL THOUGHTS: 
 The Testing was an incredible read. Its a story about a futuristic world being revitalized after a course of several major wars almost made it uninhabitable. The main character Malencia or Cia for short is very relatable. She's calculating, logical, analytical and also very smart. I like how she's always thinking long and hard before making decisions. My favorite aspect about her character is she was raised with compassion and a sense of decency. She's also strong willed and won't be broken down easily. The plot is engrossing, candidates literally fight for positions at a University. Not all students will be given the opportunity to attend. In fact, even to have a chance you must be selected by the government. Only the counties top students will have a chance. After being hand selected, the students are put through grueling tests to discover how they will react in real life situations interacting with people, independently and in groups. This is a very cut throat process. Its a thrilling, suspenseful and a very quick read. Writing is straightforward, plain with no frills, but yet it somehow possess a magical power to move readers emotionally, despite its simplicity. The reason is the story is raw and matter of fact. I was really blown away by how much I enjoyed this book. I can't wait to read the sequel, though I was glad this one concluded without a nasty cliffhanger.