Ten years have passed since the last global war left billions dead. A new truce is on the horizon between the American and European Unions to form a unified world and ensure that peace prevails. The Mark is an integral part of that future--given to citizens at the age of thirteen in exchange for pledging allegiance to society in order to receive its rights and benefits. Logan Langley's Pledge is right around the corner so he is doing everything to ensure that he is prepared for the test. He must not fail because Logan knows what happens when you do. His sister never came home from her Pledge five years ago. Ever since then, Logan has felt like he is being watched and followed, and that somehow he is next. And when he meets Erin, the new girl at school, the two discover that Logan's suspicions are well-founded. Erin, whose father works for the government, is determined to solve the mysterious case that caused her father's transfer across the union so they can move back home and be reunited with her mother. When Erin learns that Logan is at the crux of her father's case, the two become allies. But when they discover that the Mark is not what they thought it was, will their lives will be changed forever?

Swipe is the first installment in a new dystopian series for middle-graders. While the premise is an interesting one, the story is slow to get started and the motivations of those who may be after main character Logan are unclear until almost the end. By that time, all but the most patient of readers are at risk of losing interest. A few elements may hold some appeal: there is a bit of action and intrigue, and the kids are better detectives than the adults. All told, Swipe may disappoint readers looking for the next Hunger Games.

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