This dystopian world is set in the U.S. and allows prisoners to participate in the CAPE program, which is a way to "win" your freedom in a gladiator setting. The higher in the ranks you get and the more people you kill, the closer you are to freedom. 

The commentary of the prison system and how people no longer see people in prison as humans was a major point in this book. Especially since the competition is televised and people come to love and hate the competitors. 

We followed a lot of characters and their journey to the competition. We witness their personas during the fight and behind the scenes. I felt for the majority of these characters - some I wanted to throat punch. 

I thought this book was so well done and that the characters were so well crafted. I wanted a little more chemistry between Thurwar and Staxxx. I wanted to feel their love for each other a little more.