The Leveller

Gamers and action fans of all types will dive straight into the MEEP, a virtual-reality gaming world, thanks to Julia Durango's cinematic storytelling. A touch of romance, constant twists, and a vivid, multidimensional journey through a tricked-out virtual city will keep readers flying through to the breathtaking end.

Nixy Bauer is used to her classmates being very, very unhappy to see her. After all, she's a bounty hunter in a virtual-reality gaming world—and she's frequently hired by irritated parents to pull kids out of the mazelike MEEP universe.

But when the game's billionaire developer loses track of his own son in the MEEP, Nixy is in for the biggest challenge of her bounty-hunting career. Wyn Salvador isn't some lazy kid looking to escape his homework: Wyn does not want to be found. And he's left behind a suicide note. Nixy takes the job but quickly discovers that Wyn's not hiding—he's being held inside the game against his will. But who is holding him captive, and why?

Nixy and Wyn attempt to fight their way out of a mind game unlike any they've encountered, and the battle brings them closer than either could have imagined. But when the whole world is virtual, how can Nixy possibly know if her feelings are real?

• Trapped in a Video Game: Wyn Salvador isn’t hiding from his billionaire father; he’s a prisoner in his own game. And Nixy Bauer is the only one who can get him out.
• High Stakes Conspiracy: Wyn’s kidnapping is just the beginning. A sinister plot is unfolding inside the MEEP, and uncovering the truth could be more dangerous than the game itself.
• A Slow Burn Romance: Nixy’s job is to rescue her target, not fall for him. But as they fight for survival, the line between a virtual alliance and real feelings begins to blur.
• A Strong Female Protagonist: Meet Nixy Bauer: a snarky, skilled bounty hunter who’s more interested in funding her business school education than being a hero.

“First-time YA novelist Durango has a winner here, especially since the technological world building is as engrossing as the novel’s game system. Readers will be pulled in and race to the adventurous finish along with Nixy and friends.” - Booklist

“A fast-paced techno-thriller.” - Kirkus Reviews

“An entertaining adventure that is sure to find fans, especially among gamers.” - School Library Journal

“A spicy romance set in an intriguing virtual world... even non-gamers will likely find plenty to appreciate.” - Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books