The Ask and the Answer by Patrick Ness

One of my "best books of 2008" was The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness. Now the second book in the trilogy, The Ask and the Answer is definitely in my top 10 best books of 2009.

Without giving too much away...Todd and Viola's story continues in Haven where Mayor Prentiss has taken control. The two are prisoners, unaware if the other is alive. Told in alternating perspectives, Todd and Viola share their story.

I highly recommend this series. If you're looking for fast-paced, intense storytelling that deals with big issues like morality, psychological manipulation, and love, you've got to read The Ask and the Answer.