In the heart-pounding conclusion to the New York Times bestselling Diabolic series, the Empire teeters on the edge of destruction as rumors spread that Nemesis is still alive.
Three years ago, Tyrus Domitrian shocked the galaxy by killing the woman he swore to love forever. The woman for whom he upended the Empire. The woman with whom he wanted to build a new and brighter future.
Now, the once-idealistic heir apparent has become the cruel Emperor Tyrus, wielding his authority with an iron fist, capable of destroying planets with a single word, controlling all technology with a simple thought. He has bent the Grandiloquy to their knees, and none has the power to stand against him.
But there is a muttering among the Excess. They say that Nemesis is not truly gone. They whisper of her shadow spotted in distant star systems. They say that Nemesis lives. That she will rise, and rally the people to topple the man who was once her truest love—and is now her fiercest enemy.
I waited almost three long years after finishing the second book in this series, The Empress, which nearly destroyed me. To say I was thrilled upon receiving an ARC of The Nemesis doesn’t even begin to touch my level of excitement.
I’m a voracious reader, and it’s rare I’m surprised by plot twists, but this series is full of them. Surprises that ripped my heart out, made me want to throw the book across the room, and even kill the characters at some points. For me, that’s the sign of a crafty, clever writer, and a big reason why Diabolic will always be one of my favorite YA sci-fi series.
Nemesis’s character arc has been fascinating to watch as she learns to believe she’s more than just a killer created in a lab. Her strong bond with Anguish, a fellow Diabolic, is one of my favorite aspects of this story. As much as I love her, Tyrus has always been the draw for me. No matter your intelligence, he’ll always be ten steps ahead of you and can out-strategize anyone. He’s delightfully wicked in this final novel and has an abundance of thought-provoking ideas in that head of his. Both he and Nemesis are pushed to their breaking points, so be prepared for some nail-biting moments.
It takes a few chapters to find its stride, but the author delivers an intricately plotted, thrilling story loaded with political maneuvering – and a perfect ending in my opinion. This is a series I’ll absolutely go back and read again.
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 
This book sounds very intense and intriguing. A roller coaster ride, for sure. Wonderful review!
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Thanks, Tessa! The whole series was like that, and I loved it. Very few twists leave my jaw on the ground, but these sure did.
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I’ve thrown many a book across the room in my day, Teri. Good to know I’m not the only one at least considering it when things I’m ready start ripping my heart out! This sounds riveting! When I’m in a less stressed out place, I think I’ll give it a go. 🙂 Great review!
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Make that “things I’m reading,” of course. Sorry! 😦
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I probably would have if it hadn’t been on my Kindle, lol. Instead, I put it down and had to walk away for a while. This is definitely one that will get the blood pressure up, Marcia. I recommend doing yoga breathing while reading.
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Good thing my daughter is a yoga instructor, then. But I think I’ll wait until some of the stress I’ve been experiencing eases a bit, too. Otherwise, reading on my Kindle might not stop me from hurling it into the brick fireplace! 😀
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Wonderful review, interesting!
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Thanks so much! This series will always be a favorite of mine.
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I love when a series is worth reading over again. So glad this one delivered for you, Teri!
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It sure did, Mae. From the first page to the last, so many surprises.
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Thank you for sharing this review, Teri.
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You’re welcome, John.
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That sounds awesome, Teri. Glad the book was worth the wait.
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It was a looonnnng wait, but worth it in the end, Staci.
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Another great review, Teri. You certainly do read a lot.
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I feel like I’m a slow reader, Robbie, but I’m also usually listening to a book while driving or doing chores around the house. I know you also make use of audiobooks – it kind of doubles the reading time.
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Yes, exactly. I do the same thing.
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Sounds like a good series. Might have to earmark this one.
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If you’re a fan of space operas, you’d love it. So much political intrigue and maneuvering and just plain cool space stuff. The second book just about did me in.
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Well, I do love DS9, and that got pretty soap opera-ey at times!
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