Proxy by Alex London

Knox was born into one of the City’s wealthiest families. A Patron, he has everything a boy could possibly want—the latest tech, the coolest clothes, and a Proxy to take all his punishments. When Knox breaks a vase, Syd is beaten. When Knox plays a practical joke, Syd is forced to haul rocks. And when Knox crashes a car, killing one of his friends, Syd is branded and sentenced to death.

Syd is a Proxy. His life is not his own.

Then again, neither is Knox’s. Knox and Syd have more in common than either would guess. So when Knox and Syd realize that the only way to beat the system is to save each other, they flee. Yet Knox’s father is no ordinary Patron, and Syd is no ordinary Proxy. The ensuing cross-country chase will uncover a secret society of rebels, test both boys’ resolve, and shine a blinding light onto a world of those who owe and those who pay. Some debts, it turns out, cannot be repaid.

Goodreads Blurb

Patrons are wealthy, beautiful, and can get away with murder - Literally.  Proxies are perpetually in debt and take the punishments for their patrons.  Syd is a proxy with an awful patron who is always in trouble, causing Syd to constantly be punished.  Knox has never actually met the boy who is penalized for his crimes, but Knox has watched Syd take his punishments.  This time is different though, Knox has murdered a girl; and Syd must suffer the consequences unless Knox is willing to take the punishment himself.

                Syd and Knox become real as the reader delves further into the pages of Proxy.  Both boys grow and develop as the novel progresses.  I loved following the boys’ journeys as well as the journeys of their friends.  I am eager to read the next book in the series. 

                London’s book pulls you into a horrible world of haves and have-nots.  Proxy comments on a million issues in our society today from homophobia to the disparity between the wealthy and poor.  Anyone would benefit from reading this novel and learn from what London has to say.

4 Stars

*Reviewed by Kristin*

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