In one month, there will be a contest that puts teenagers through physical, mental, and psychological trials that may very well break them. The courageous winner will have the honor of becoming the vessel of all the world’s evil. Or so the story goes . . .

This story is The Devil Particle, which will be released on June 6th. I can’t wait for you to read it!

In the meantime, I’m in full marketing mode. I’m creating a social media blast for the next six weeks, lining up podcast interviews, and working with Val Biel and Celeste Anton on my Amazon and Facebook ads.

I’m also preparing for my book launch party on June 7th at Mystery to Me Bookstore in Madison. This event is free and open to the public, but space is limited, so click here to reserve your spot. The party will also be live-streamed if you want to join us remotely.

Oh, and I’m revising The Vessel — the second book in the series — which I’m launching this fall. I spent yesterday morning at the Verona Public Library with my writing buddy Author Evelyn Ann Casey.

Evelyn worked on her latest book while I rewrote the pivotal scene in The Vessel. I love the way it’s coming together.

Over the last few weeks, I’ve pursued early reviews of The Devil Particle. They’re now coming in. I’m proud to say that the novel has received terrific praise and reviewers are thrilled with it:

Kirkus Recommended Review (their verdict: GET IT):

A teen and his friends brave a grueling competition to save humanity in Oakley’s YA SF series opener . . .The author develops characters exceedingly well: The participants aren’t as wholesome as they may appear . . . Oakley couples a brisk narrative pace with concise dialogue and short scenes that keep the characters moving . . . A captivating, thrilling tale with believably flawed characters. – Kirkus Reviews

5-star Readers’ Favorite Review:

Kristin A Oakley has a fascinating concept for this captivating new YA novel; it draws you in immediately and never lets go throughout the reading experience. I enjoyed the pace and depiction of the many action scenes, which played out with such atmosphere and vivid multi-sensory cues that you begin to feel like you’re in a VR world, running, racing, and fighting alongside Paul and his fellow potential vessels. In addition, the explored interpersonal relationships are realized with unique dialogue personalized to each character. Finally, Paul’s emotional journey is well-paced with close, personal narration that feels realistic and well-crafted. Overall, The Devil Particle is an accomplished dystopian work with plenty of high-stakes action and a fantastic emotional core that readers will find gripping and moving. – Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers’ Favorite

Mark June 6th on your calendar to get your copy of The Devil Particle!

You can pre-order the eBook starting May 22nd!

Then join the celebration with me at Mystery to Me on June 7th!