A plague, called Wicked, is pulsing through the world; and in its wake, it’s 
dividing the population into thirds:
The WICKED: Already infected by the droves of Singers, the ultraviolet mosquito-like insects who carry the plague, the Wicked roam the world freely. They don’t want for much—only to maim and dismember you. But don’t worry: They always ask politely first.
The TRUE: The True live in contained, isolated communities. They’re the lucky ones; they found safety from the Singers. And while the threat of the Wicked may not be eliminated, for the True, the threat has certainly been contained…
The VEXED: The Vexed are the truly fortunate ones—they survived the sting of the Singers, leaving them immune. But they’re far from safe. The Vexed hold the key to a cure, and there are those who will do anything to get it.
I’m always up for a post-apocalyptic plague story. I’ve read several, but this novel puts a fresh spin on the typical version.
Some reviews have referred to the Wicked as zombies. I didn’t see them that way at all. They’re almost childlike, but retain most of their memories and are able to function and take care of themselves. It’s unnerving, because it can be difficult to tell they’re Wicked. They’re lethal and, given the chance, will kill you in spectacular ways. However, as with children, their attention can usually be diverted – at least for a little while. Maybe enough time to get to safety. Maybe not. Don’t underestimate them.
There’s a clever plot twist toward the end. It’s something I suspected early on, but that didn’t make it any less ingenious, and it gives the whole story a new perspective.
How We Became Wicked isn’t just a post-apocalyptic story, it’s also about the sacrifices we make to save our loved ones. And how some people can so easily sacrifice others to save themselves. The ending leaves me to believe there may be a sequel. If so, I’ll definitely be looking for it. This novel is scheduled for release July 23, 2019.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Books and Such 
Interesting! The cover is neat too. I do like post-apocalyptic stories every now and then. Adding this one and hope there is a second book with the way the ending sounds. Great review, Teri. 🙂
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Thanks, Jenn! The cover is pretty cool – and purple is one of my fav colors, so you know it caught my attention. I’m also hoping for a second book, but I could see the author’s logic of leaving it as is, also.
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The fact that there’s a twist is what really interests me. Now I’m curious to see what that is. Great review, Teri.
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Those twists are like a plateful of dark chocolate beckoning to me, Staci, lol. Last time I checked on Goodreads, no one had given away spoilers – yet.
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The Singers sound terrifying, and I already feel sorry for the Wicked, but scared of them, too. Sounds like a cool book. Thanks for posting your review!
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Believe me, you should be scared of the Wicked, Priscilla. This was an original, entertaining read.
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I’ve read a fair amount of post apocalyptic stories. I’m not much for zombies, but the differences in the Wicked make this intriguing. Great review, Teri.
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Thanks, Mae! I’m not sure why some reviewers compared them to zombies, because they’re nothing like them. The author saw my review on Twitter and mentioned he wasn’t sure where they’d gotten the comparison, either.
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Excellent review, Teri
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Thanks, John!
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Added this straight into my TBR! I love the sound of this, especially with the different factions of people. Excited to jump into this! Great review xo
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Thanks, Jordann! Hope you enjoy it just as much. It was an interesting dynamic between the different factions, and even amusing at times with the Wicked.
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OMG Teri I don’t know if I’d have the stomach to read that one honestly!
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You could do it, Sophie! No gore, no zombies.
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This sounds very tempting, Teri. I am fascinated by dystopian stories at the moment.
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This one could be for you, Robbie!
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Hmm. Interesting I don’t think of this type of story as dystopian but post-apocalyptic. That is brewing up a post in my brain… Sounds Maze Runner-like (sans the maze). On my TBR list! 🙂 Surprised?
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Yep – I consider it post-apocalyptic also. And no, not surprised one bit. You’re welcome.
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