What do you think?
Rate this book
Exceptional #2
Rogue
Ally is finally outside the City walls, with her brother and her best friends.
Luke is still inside the City walls, with no memory of the girl he once loved.
Life in the Wilderness is dangerous, and they soon find out that they are not alone. Will Ally continue her journey to the Southern City, or will she risk it all to help the boy she loves?
Luke is still inside the City walls, with no memory of the girl he once loved.
Life in the Wilderness is dangerous, and they soon find out that they are not alone. Will Ally continue her journey to the Southern City, or will she risk it all to help the boy she loves?
Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2012
46 people are currently reading
704 people want to read
About the author
Jess Petosa
13 books219 followersJess Petosa resides in Indiana with her husband, three daughters, and two miniature long-haired dachshunds. Her imaginative day dreaming led her to a career in writing dystopian and science fiction Young Adult novels. Every now and then she dabbles in romance novels as well.
You can find her on Facebook under Jess Petosa and Instagram [jesspetosa].
You can find her on Facebook under Jess Petosa and Instagram [jesspetosa].
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
May 18, 2013
First, please see my review of the first book in the series, Exceptionals.
This book does seem to flow a bit better. The dialogue is a little more contemporary and fluid. The editing is a smidge improved. I still greatly enjoyed the premise and the characters - but I still desperately want a good editor before the third book is released.
Yes, I'll be reading the third book. And I hope the author keeps writing. She has talent. She has ability. She needs to keep working on 'craft.' On showing not telling. On believable dialogue.
But she's got the plot thing well covered. Good conflict. Good protaganist/antagonist dynamics. Good story.
This book does seem to flow a bit better. The dialogue is a little more contemporary and fluid. The editing is a smidge improved. I still greatly enjoyed the premise and the characters - but I still desperately want a good editor before the third book is released.
Yes, I'll be reading the third book. And I hope the author keeps writing. She has talent. She has ability. She needs to keep working on 'craft.' On showing not telling. On believable dialogue.
But she's got the plot thing well covered. Good conflict. Good protaganist/antagonist dynamics. Good story.
October 1, 2013
The follow-up to "Exceptional", describing the changes in Ally's life after escaping the city as well as the changes for Luke. With both aware of the imminent Rogue threat, they both are following their own paths to coping with the threat. However, Ally doesn't know that Luke won't be coming after her - that he's been forced to forget everything about her.
Compared to Exceptional, this book is both stronger in storytelling and yet worse in falling into set tropes and cliches. A strong beginning is muddied by an obligatory conflicting character who entices the group to rest for a while in an Ordinary outpost in the former city of Champaign, Illinois. There Ally discovers that the Rogue threat is closer and more real than either she or Luke had known, and feels it is her duty to help save the city and her once-love.
Like I said - some serious tropism here. A very strong beginning that wanes towards the middle with becoming muddied in cliche conflict, that begins to resolve with more strength towards the end. The ending is much stronger than most of the rest of the book, though the book itself is an enjoyable read with some minor unexpected twists and turns.
Overall, if you enjoyed "Exceptional", "Rogue" realizes some of the unfulfilled promise from the first book, and leaves the reader wondering about the future for the Exceptional world.
Compared to Exceptional, this book is both stronger in storytelling and yet worse in falling into set tropes and cliches. A strong beginning is muddied by an obligatory conflicting character who entices the group to rest for a while in an Ordinary outpost in the former city of Champaign, Illinois. There Ally discovers that the Rogue threat is closer and more real than either she or Luke had known, and feels it is her duty to help save the city and her once-love.
Like I said - some serious tropism here. A very strong beginning that wanes towards the middle with becoming muddied in cliche conflict, that begins to resolve with more strength towards the end. The ending is much stronger than most of the rest of the book, though the book itself is an enjoyable read with some minor unexpected twists and turns.
Overall, if you enjoyed "Exceptional", "Rogue" realizes some of the unfulfilled promise from the first book, and leaves the reader wondering about the future for the Exceptional world.
October 6, 2015
I enjoyed reading this book, but found it to be a bit boring at times. It was written with average detail, which is why it became a little hard to read towards the middle. There was lots of action and a few interesting plot twists, which are one of this series overall strengths. Most of the interesting things happen toward the end, like the main character’s adventures in war and surprising thoughts once entering the dystopic city again. I would recommend this book to anyone who liked the first book and is curious about what happens next. I would also recommend this entire series to those who enjoy science fiction with a little bit of apocalypse in a dystonian world, along with intense, strong characters. One thing I was sad about is some of the characters introduced in either the first story or the beginning of this book kind of disappeared around the middle, while the most attention was focused on only the main characters. I am planning on reading the third book since I want to know what happens, although the author’s writing style is still not my favorite
March 19, 2014
I liked it. I liked the new characters and it kept me interested. I like hoe they brought in the Rogues and they were not too over the top. can't wait for the 3rd book.
August 23, 2017
Exceptional character development.
I typically focus on the story, but it stood out to me how many characters, protagonists and antagonists alike, had mixtures of good and bad intentions and a mixture of successes and failures at fulfilling those intentions.
I typically focus on the story, but it stood out to me how many characters, protagonists and antagonists alike, had mixtures of good and bad intentions and a mixture of successes and failures at fulfilling those intentions.
February 13, 2019
Great storylines
This book and it's story are so engrossing. I love the characters and the plot. The whole thing is very unique.
This book and it's story are so engrossing. I love the characters and the plot. The whole thing is very unique.
March 23, 2013
As the blurb states, this story picks up where the first book left off. Ally, Stosh, and their friends are traveling through the wilderness to escape the Guards while trying to locate other settlements. On the way, they do encounter some Guards, which Ally has to kill. They come across a settlement, which is more like a town, called Champaign. Champaign has at least a couple thousand residents, and they have electricity, running water, etc. Heath, the town’s leader, has allies that are Guards.
Enter Max. He is Heath’s nephew, and starts falling for Ally. Ally then runs across some information from Kemp. She gets that info and tries to figure out who she trusts enough with it. She decides she trusts Heath with the vaccine information. A raid by the Guards in the town of Champaign lands Stosh and Sabine in the City jail. Ally decides to no longer wait for Heath’s plans to enter the city. Will Luke be there when she enters? What will it be like? She has no idea Luke had his memory wiped clean of her.
While all of that is going on, the story follows Luke in the City as well. You watch things that he is doing, knowing the old Luke would never do them. He is becoming more like his father, Aden. Aden gets sick, so Luke is placed into power early. Pax is by his side, which you do wonder about him since in the first book he killed a friend of Luke’s with a smile on his face. Luke has the city plan for evacuations, and prepares for the Rogue attacks. But how well can you really plan for a war?
Okay, I did enjoy this book. I re-read the first in the series before starting this one to get to know the characters again, and I’m glad I did. You see how Luke and Ally fall in love, and you see how that is taken away from them. You do want them to get back together, but is it really in the stars for them?
This book had some suspense, love, fighting, and of course two swoon-worthy guys! You feel sorry for Ally having to deal with all of this when she is only 18 years old. And Luke, you are angry that he is acting like his father. Even though his memory has been erased, he still knows he is missing something-some sort of shadow. And the people Ally and Luke trust- are they really trustworthy? I stayed up late last night finishing this book because I was so into it. You do have to read the first to understand the second. Character development was good, plot was good, and twist at the ending was good. The ending helped explain some things, but also left a few questions in my mind. I’m excited for the next book, but I know I’ll have to wait a while.
I give this 4.5 out of 5! http://lkirk16.wordpress.com/2013/03/...
Enter Max. He is Heath’s nephew, and starts falling for Ally. Ally then runs across some information from Kemp. She gets that info and tries to figure out who she trusts enough with it. She decides she trusts Heath with the vaccine information. A raid by the Guards in the town of Champaign lands Stosh and Sabine in the City jail. Ally decides to no longer wait for Heath’s plans to enter the city. Will Luke be there when she enters? What will it be like? She has no idea Luke had his memory wiped clean of her.
While all of that is going on, the story follows Luke in the City as well. You watch things that he is doing, knowing the old Luke would never do them. He is becoming more like his father, Aden. Aden gets sick, so Luke is placed into power early. Pax is by his side, which you do wonder about him since in the first book he killed a friend of Luke’s with a smile on his face. Luke has the city plan for evacuations, and prepares for the Rogue attacks. But how well can you really plan for a war?
Okay, I did enjoy this book. I re-read the first in the series before starting this one to get to know the characters again, and I’m glad I did. You see how Luke and Ally fall in love, and you see how that is taken away from them. You do want them to get back together, but is it really in the stars for them?
This book had some suspense, love, fighting, and of course two swoon-worthy guys! You feel sorry for Ally having to deal with all of this when she is only 18 years old. And Luke, you are angry that he is acting like his father. Even though his memory has been erased, he still knows he is missing something-some sort of shadow. And the people Ally and Luke trust- are they really trustworthy? I stayed up late last night finishing this book because I was so into it. You do have to read the first to understand the second. Character development was good, plot was good, and twist at the ending was good. The ending helped explain some things, but also left a few questions in my mind. I’m excited for the next book, but I know I’ll have to wait a while.
I give this 4.5 out of 5! http://lkirk16.wordpress.com/2013/03/...
March 13, 2015
Rogue is the action packed sequel to Jess Petosa's Exceptional. The books need to be read in order as this story builds upon the previous story.
In Rogue, Ally has escaped the city. She must find the Southern City to help stop the rogue invasion. Traveling with her is her twin brother Stash, and a small group of ordinaries. The journey through the wilderness is treacherous and the group fears encountering both exceptional guards and rogues which may hide in the woods. Ally is the only exceptional and the only one with the powers to defeat these threats to both her life and the lives of her friends. She hopes Luke will follow soon, but understands that he may decide to remain in the city.
Luke, meanwhile is taking over leadership of the city. After his father erased his memories, he no longer remembers the girl he once loved. He is quickly learning the ways of his dictator of a father and is preparing to protect the city from a rogue attack. With Pax at his side and an ORC girl brought to be his new ordinary, Luke senses something is not right, but can't quite put his finger on it.
When Ally's group finds a new settlement, she will learn of things she never before knew existed in the old world. She will also be forced to trust people she has only just met. Will the vaccine be safe with them? Or will they use the medicine for ill purposes?
Max, the nephew of the leader of the settlement, takes an immediate liking to Ally. He is the "ordinary" counterpart to Luke - similar in many ways and Ally finds herself drawn to both. While she desperately misses the guy she still loves, she can't be sure of Luke's continued feelings to her. Eager to help protect the city and Luke from the rogues, and with some motives to help the settlement that took them in, Ally, Max, and their friends must journey back to the city with the vaccines before it is too late. However, the reunion Ally had hoped for with Luke turns into something she could have never expected.
Lives will be lost, friendships will be betrayed, and hearts may be broken. In the midst of a rogue war and turmoil between the exceptionals and ordinaries, sides must be taken and lines will be drawn. Will Ally get back to the city before it is too late? Can love conquer betrayal? When the dust settles who will still be standing?
I listened to the audio version of Rogue which was very well narrated. The dialogue is crisp and clear. The emotions reflect the characters and add depth to the story. This is a great book to listen to.
In Rogue, Ally has escaped the city. She must find the Southern City to help stop the rogue invasion. Traveling with her is her twin brother Stash, and a small group of ordinaries. The journey through the wilderness is treacherous and the group fears encountering both exceptional guards and rogues which may hide in the woods. Ally is the only exceptional and the only one with the powers to defeat these threats to both her life and the lives of her friends. She hopes Luke will follow soon, but understands that he may decide to remain in the city.
Luke, meanwhile is taking over leadership of the city. After his father erased his memories, he no longer remembers the girl he once loved. He is quickly learning the ways of his dictator of a father and is preparing to protect the city from a rogue attack. With Pax at his side and an ORC girl brought to be his new ordinary, Luke senses something is not right, but can't quite put his finger on it.
When Ally's group finds a new settlement, she will learn of things she never before knew existed in the old world. She will also be forced to trust people she has only just met. Will the vaccine be safe with them? Or will they use the medicine for ill purposes?
Max, the nephew of the leader of the settlement, takes an immediate liking to Ally. He is the "ordinary" counterpart to Luke - similar in many ways and Ally finds herself drawn to both. While she desperately misses the guy she still loves, she can't be sure of Luke's continued feelings to her. Eager to help protect the city and Luke from the rogues, and with some motives to help the settlement that took them in, Ally, Max, and their friends must journey back to the city with the vaccines before it is too late. However, the reunion Ally had hoped for with Luke turns into something she could have never expected.
Lives will be lost, friendships will be betrayed, and hearts may be broken. In the midst of a rogue war and turmoil between the exceptionals and ordinaries, sides must be taken and lines will be drawn. Will Ally get back to the city before it is too late? Can love conquer betrayal? When the dust settles who will still be standing?
I listened to the audio version of Rogue which was very well narrated. The dialogue is crisp and clear. The emotions reflect the characters and add depth to the story. This is a great book to listen to.
February 7, 2014
As previously stated I was a huge fan of the first book in the “Exceptional” series and Rouge by Jess Petosa lived up to that same level of joy. Ok lets cover the back story again and to save time I am just going to pull from my last review. The US has collapsed after creating a super virus that took out seventy five percent of human civilization. The few humans that remain are split between those whose bodies accepted the virus and gained super human powers and those that survived from being immune or hiding, The Ordinaries. In this follow up book Luke plays a much smaller role, but that does not mean all is lost for the two.
Ok got that covered lets get to the good stuff. Ally was once again a great character and while this book did not focus as much on the love interest it still delivered some truly human moments of joy and pain that we all have seen in relationships. I would have to agree with many reviews that this story felt a little rushed and that the end leaves you craving more with no date on when you can get your next fix. On the other hand thats better then many book manage to do, and I assure you I will pick it up once book three comes out.
Rouge give more time to explore the character of Ally and to adjust to the reality of who she is. Its really hard to not give out to much info and fill in the story but with the recent changes in her life Ally is split between the present and the past and how she interacts with everyone else. She faces the typical growth into a character who is both the hero and the sinner, but that line is not defined as much by what she does as who she is. Enter Max and we now have a love triangle and while its definitely there it never really is explored, I am really hoping this gets further developed in the third book.
I would not suggest this book for advanced readers of a younger age, but I don’t think its anything that a fourteen year old girl or boy could not handle so lets say YA-14+ and I feel pretty strongly about that. I might be a little on the conservative side but why fill your younger child's head with things they will have way to much time thinking about in their teen years. If your a teen or young adult who likes the dystopian books pick this up! Thank you again Jess for even more good hours of entertainment!
Ok got that covered lets get to the good stuff. Ally was once again a great character and while this book did not focus as much on the love interest it still delivered some truly human moments of joy and pain that we all have seen in relationships. I would have to agree with many reviews that this story felt a little rushed and that the end leaves you craving more with no date on when you can get your next fix. On the other hand thats better then many book manage to do, and I assure you I will pick it up once book three comes out.
Rouge give more time to explore the character of Ally and to adjust to the reality of who she is. Its really hard to not give out to much info and fill in the story but with the recent changes in her life Ally is split between the present and the past and how she interacts with everyone else. She faces the typical growth into a character who is both the hero and the sinner, but that line is not defined as much by what she does as who she is. Enter Max and we now have a love triangle and while its definitely there it never really is explored, I am really hoping this gets further developed in the third book.
I would not suggest this book for advanced readers of a younger age, but I don’t think its anything that a fourteen year old girl or boy could not handle so lets say YA-14+ and I feel pretty strongly about that. I might be a little on the conservative side but why fill your younger child's head with things they will have way to much time thinking about in their teen years. If your a teen or young adult who likes the dystopian books pick this up! Thank you again Jess for even more good hours of entertainment!
October 29, 2014
****************Review based on Second Reading******************
While rereading the first book, I dropped my rating from 4 to 3 stars due to too many plot holes, characterization issues, and some juvenile writing. This book is so much better than the first and most of the problems seem to have disappeared.
Quick Rundown: Chick is on the run to the Southern City when she comes across an Ordinary (Max) who shows her to a very large Wilderness Community/Town. Dude is back in the city with his memory of Chick completely wiped and he does a complete 180 (or does he?). We have a lot of new characters and the title of the book denotes the battle that will occur. Who will win? Casualties? Love remembered? Read to find out.
Characterization: This is much better done in this novel in regards to the two MC's and the secondary and even tertiary characters. Huge improvement. In fact, I'm writing most of this review before the best stuff happens so I can have a clear head and not be swayed by the plot (which is still excellent if not better). Chick's lack of personality is explained away which is not an excuse (IMHO) for her lack of personality in the first book. She's fully developed in this one. So is Dude though we aren't quite sure about his motivations or his nature now that his mind has been wiped.
Plot: There are some slow points in this one while they are in the Wilderness Town but it's important information for the most part so this being the second reading, I kinda skimmed it here and there but I rated this 5 stars before reread, so it must not have bothered me the first time. There are still some plot holes and I'm not talking about the ones that are answered later; I'm talking about some mild contrariness and contradictions. They are less prevalent than the first book so there's improvement there. The big battle is a good one and was really fleshed out well.... Okay, I've finished the book and while there are a couple predictable plot points, there are plenty of surprises- even for me having already read this one! Cliffhanger ending but no worries, the third book is out now and I'm assuming it's the last in the series.
Overall: A win! Starting the third book now!
While rereading the first book, I dropped my rating from 4 to 3 stars due to too many plot holes, characterization issues, and some juvenile writing. This book is so much better than the first and most of the problems seem to have disappeared.
Quick Rundown: Chick is on the run to the Southern City when she comes across an Ordinary (Max) who shows her to a very large Wilderness Community/Town. Dude is back in the city with his memory of Chick completely wiped and he does a complete 180 (or does he?). We have a lot of new characters and the title of the book denotes the battle that will occur. Who will win? Casualties? Love remembered? Read to find out.
Characterization: This is much better done in this novel in regards to the two MC's and the secondary and even tertiary characters. Huge improvement. In fact, I'm writing most of this review before the best stuff happens so I can have a clear head and not be swayed by the plot (which is still excellent if not better). Chick's lack of personality is explained away which is not an excuse (IMHO) for her lack of personality in the first book. She's fully developed in this one. So is Dude though we aren't quite sure about his motivations or his nature now that his mind has been wiped.
Plot: There are some slow points in this one while they are in the Wilderness Town but it's important information for the most part so this being the second reading, I kinda skimmed it here and there but I rated this 5 stars before reread, so it must not have bothered me the first time. There are still some plot holes and I'm not talking about the ones that are answered later; I'm talking about some mild contrariness and contradictions. They are less prevalent than the first book so there's improvement there. The big battle is a good one and was really fleshed out well.... Okay, I've finished the book and while there are a couple predictable plot points, there are plenty of surprises- even for me having already read this one! Cliffhanger ending but no worries, the third book is out now and I'm assuming it's the last in the series.
Overall: A win! Starting the third book now!
June 29, 2023
Re-read
Audiobook: good narration, 1 female narrator
FMC: In this one we are given a reason (other than cultural indoctrination) for some of the stupid decisions and reactions of the FMC in the last book. Though, it was a pretty flimsy excuse and seemed a weird thing to include. Basically the author wrote her coming into her powers like the experiences of an 11 year old girl getting her period for the first time… at first kind of naive and un-understanding, then going through crazy hormonal ups and downs that aren’t easily controlled. So stupid. She is 18 and having rage fits, temper tantrums, and the “oh no the boy I’ve treated like shit this whole time stopped giving me attention, I’m now going to whine about pout about it until he talks to me again” type of attitude. And also… why does she not understand the concept of “compassion”? There was a whole big thing about it. Is the author writing her as a sociopath or just a complete idiot? And, she continues to NOT learn from her mistakes. Time and time again she puts her trust in people without any sense of discernment and ignoring any warning bells. It made some sense in the first book. Not at this point though.
Luke: I was not happy with his actions and attitudes but I also knew his father erased his memories of Ally and I suspected had done something else to him as well - so with those assumptions his actions didn’t frustrate me besides waiting to see when he would find out the truth.
Max: his interest in Ally made no sense besides thinking of her as a shiny new toy - and that made me dislike him. She wasn’t nice to anyone in the town really - not that she was mean to everyone - mainly she was distant to most people and just more directly shitty with Max and Heath (who totally did deserve her attitude at times).
Audiobook: good narration, 1 female narrator
FMC: In this one we are given a reason (other than cultural indoctrination) for some of the stupid decisions and reactions of the FMC in the last book. Though, it was a pretty flimsy excuse and seemed a weird thing to include. Basically the author wrote her coming into her powers like the experiences of an 11 year old girl getting her period for the first time… at first kind of naive and un-understanding, then going through crazy hormonal ups and downs that aren’t easily controlled. So stupid. She is 18 and having rage fits, temper tantrums, and the “oh no the boy I’ve treated like shit this whole time stopped giving me attention, I’m now going to whine about pout about it until he talks to me again” type of attitude. And also… why does she not understand the concept of “compassion”? There was a whole big thing about it. Is the author writing her as a sociopath or just a complete idiot? And, she continues to NOT learn from her mistakes. Time and time again she puts her trust in people without any sense of discernment and ignoring any warning bells. It made some sense in the first book. Not at this point though.
Luke: I was not happy with his actions and attitudes but I also knew his father erased his memories of Ally and I suspected had done something else to him as well - so with those assumptions his actions didn’t frustrate me besides waiting to see when he would find out the truth.
Max: his interest in Ally made no sense besides thinking of her as a shiny new toy - and that made me dislike him. She wasn’t nice to anyone in the town really - not that she was mean to everyone - mainly she was distant to most people and just more directly shitty with Max and Heath (who totally did deserve her attitude at times).
August 14, 2017
I was very excited when this book came out...I wanted to see what was going to happen to Ally and Luke now that Ally was outside the city and Arden had erased all of Luke's memories. I didn't mind that the book went back and forth between Ally and Luke as it gave us a little insight into how Luke was fairing in the city. However, the story was more from Ally's point of view than Luke's.
I have to admit that I wasn't thrilled by the introduction of Max into Ally's orbit. I'm totally rooting for Luke and Ally, but I enjoyed seeing Ally in Champaign. I think it was important for Ally and her friends to see a fully functioning settlement outside of the city. I have to say though I admit to not trusting Heath from the beginning, I knew he was up to something, but I didn't expect it to be what it was.
As for Luke, I was happy that he was having shadows of Ally to remind him of something and glad we didn't have to suffer through any time with Ruin his selection from ORC.
I'm not totally surprised that Aden was behind anything, he was power hungry from the start and it only made sense that he had something to do with the Rogues.
I was happy for the mini-reunion we got between Luke and Ally, that is until Ruin ruined it. I was very sad to see Ally run from Luke without letting him explain. Though I was relieved when Pax admitted that Ruin was pregnant with his baby and not Luke's.
Can't wait till the third book to see if Luke and Ally reunite and what happens with Heath and Max.
I have to admit that I wasn't thrilled by the introduction of Max into Ally's orbit. I'm totally rooting for Luke and Ally, but I enjoyed seeing Ally in Champaign. I think it was important for Ally and her friends to see a fully functioning settlement outside of the city. I have to say though I admit to not trusting Heath from the beginning, I knew he was up to something, but I didn't expect it to be what it was.
As for Luke, I was happy that he was having shadows of Ally to remind him of something and glad we didn't have to suffer through any time with Ruin his selection from ORC.
I'm not totally surprised that Aden was behind anything, he was power hungry from the start and it only made sense that he had something to do with the Rogues.
I was happy for the mini-reunion we got between Luke and Ally, that is until Ruin ruined it. I was very sad to see Ally run from Luke without letting him explain. Though I was relieved when Pax admitted that Ruin was pregnant with his baby and not Luke's.
Can't wait till the third book to see if Luke and Ally reunite and what happens with Heath and Max.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2013
The second installment of the Exceptional series explodes. It's nonstop action from the very beginning! We pick up only a few weeks from where book one left off and the gaps in the time jump are filled in nicely as the story progresses. Ally has unofficially taken on the role as leader of the group and her uncertainties are well portrayed.
The story is told from jumping perspectives of Ally in the Wilderness and Luke, left behind in the City. Then, we also meet a cast of newcomers that round out the story really nicely.
There's the start of a love triangle in the plot with the third point being filled by Max, one of the young men who grew up in the Wilderness settlement of Champaign. But the romance takes a back seat in this installment. Frankly, I like it that way.
There's so much going on with the threat of the Rogues, that it was a nice surprise to see that the action focuses there. I think the author knew that the romance between the characters would be better served in a later installment and I can't wait to see the directions this series will take!
The story is told from jumping perspectives of Ally in the Wilderness and Luke, left behind in the City. Then, we also meet a cast of newcomers that round out the story really nicely.
There's the start of a love triangle in the plot with the third point being filled by Max, one of the young men who grew up in the Wilderness settlement of Champaign. But the romance takes a back seat in this installment. Frankly, I like it that way.
There's so much going on with the threat of the Rogues, that it was a nice surprise to see that the action focuses there. I think the author knew that the romance between the characters would be better served in a later installment and I can't wait to see the directions this series will take!
January 24, 2014
I really liked the first book, and this was a good continuation of the story. However, there was one thing that really bothered me about the book, and funny enough, it was Pax who pointed it out. He reminded Luke that although he had no memory of Ally the whole time, Ally remembered him and yet still came in with another guy. I just found it odd that Ally was so fickle that she could have such intense "love" for Luke and then within days have this other guy around, acting like a boyfriend. And, she didn't even give Luke a chance to explain what was going on in his house when he did get his memory back, but ran off and dumped him. I mean, come on! He didn't remember you, what did you expect? Aside from that, I liked the story a lot and am looking forward to the next book. (I just hope the next book isn't Luke running after her, desperately trying to get her to forgive him for something that wasn't his fault!)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2013
I really enjoyed the second book in this series! In the beginning, I wasn't sure I would like it as much as Exceptional but the second half was amazing! A lot was explained and I think it was a great second installment to the trilogy. However, here I go again, reading a book a day after it comes out only to have a year to wait for the conclusion. One day I will learn...
June 7, 2013
This book left me a bit conflicted, Max or Luke? Now that I think about it, its kinda like Twilight in, who should Bella choose, the vampire or the wolf, was always disappointed she chose Edward. Anyway, that's another book review..... and I kinda like Max. ahem....anyway, the book seemed a bit longer, I didn't devour it as fast as I did the first book. However, it still tied things together, the books flowed together. like I said there were moments in the book where I was like"eh" but for the most part is was good, looking forward to book 3 hopefully its not a rushed novel, a third novel can often make or break the series. however the thing I love about this author is I'm curious as to where it will go and I'm not stuck in my own head about where I wish this story will end up. Thank you once again I look forward to book 3.
April 10, 2014
Some spoilers.. I really liked this book. In the first book I did not like that she turned into an Exceptional -- it seemed predictable. But with the events of this book, I can see the bigger picture and how it fits into the storyline. When Matt first came into the picture, I thought, oh here we go, here's another Twilight love story with 2 guys fighting over the girl but of course she likes the more powerful one. I thought the second Luke "remembers", Ally would just melt into his arms and forget everything else. But Ally is no Bella. Ally is strong and independent, not a whiney, immature girl. So I liked it. I am really excited for the next one! Jess is such a great author, and her books are great reads, especially for being self-published. There's no major grammar or format issues like I've seen with other self published novels.
January 13, 2014
I have to say I genuinely enjoyed this book as have I enjoyed the series so far. There was a smooth transition from the book 1 to book 2. However I have to agree with another review I read in that the last few chapters seemed rushed. There was a lot of build up then the end seemed lacking. I was happy to see Ally and Luke continue with the relationship but disappointed with where it went...although it’s understandable. The thing that got me uncomfortable and could possibly prevent me from reading the last installment in the series or not finish it if I start is the hint of a love triangle. Why the ffuu...udge do writers do that?!?! For me it’s infuriating. Pick one and go, or don’t pick any, fine, no problem. Just please don't have this back and forth, who do I chose? Despite that great book!
--Please understand this is just my very humble opinion.
--Please understand this is just my very humble opinion.
October 9, 2014
I really liked the concept of this book series. The characters were very developed and the story was a grabber for me as I am a dystopian junkie. That's where my praise for this book ends.
I was truly loving going through the chapters and seeing where things would go. This book is in SERIOUS need of an editor that can spell and actually proof read. For some reason, the editor thought that the words "no" and "know" could be used interchangably.
The biggest rub for this book was the ending. It truly felt like "well, I don't have time for this story telling thing anymore, we'll just end it here!" The story ended very abruptly, leaving a ton of questions left unanswered for the reader. And the worst, the epilogue threw over a half a dozen unexplained twists to the story and just ended.
I was truly loving going through the chapters and seeing where things would go. This book is in SERIOUS need of an editor that can spell and actually proof read. For some reason, the editor thought that the words "no" and "know" could be used interchangably.
The biggest rub for this book was the ending. It truly felt like "well, I don't have time for this story telling thing anymore, we'll just end it here!" The story ended very abruptly, leaving a ton of questions left unanswered for the reader. And the worst, the epilogue threw over a half a dozen unexplained twists to the story and just ended.
March 10, 2014
Loved the second Book "Rouge" from Jess Petosa. As far as dystopian young adult romances I thought this one was a lot smarter. The main character Ally has to be one of my favorite. Loved the twists and turns the story took as I followed her adventure. I would be happy to walk away from this series and be happy imagining my own happily ever after, even though it's obvious the story is not finished. So just to confirm it I went in search of information about a third book and according to the author's blog she's working on it right now. I'm so excited to see what happens next. The story was totally PG and language was clean. I would recommend this to both my own friends and my 17 year old daughter. Great read!
August 19, 2014
I was sort of skeptical about reading this, since the first was so poorly edited. I'm glad I did though, because it was definitely an improvement. Jess Petosa could still use the help of a professional editor to help smooth out certain phrases and transitions, but it was definitely a more enjoyable read. I thought the plot of this book was more interesting than the previous, although it was still a bit predictable at times. I think Jess's strength is in writing endings, because both books had very intriguing endings. I'm not overly fond of the love triangle trope, but Jess has done a good job of keeping me guessing about who Ally will pick. I hope that Jess will publish the conclusion soon, because it promises to be better than either of the 2 previous books.
April 3, 2013
This book was better than the first one, but still struggled with a lot of the same issues. Many decisions are not explained and most of the characters seem unpredictable. Again the "good" and "bad" characters are pretty obvious from the start. The love triangle really bothered me...it was very Twilight-esque. The story is good but too fast-paced. Because she focuses so much on moving the story along, there are some key developments that get left behind. I feel like this book could have been great if it had better editing and revisions to make it more complete, but as it is it just lacks any depth.
July 17, 2013
If you thought the first one was heavy on the love story, this second installment is even more "love" heavy... Ally meets Max, an Ordinary boy, who further complicates her relationship with Luke... sort of... To be honest, I felt the love triangle was void of any true emotion. However, my real issue with the novel was that the last six chapters felt SOOO rushed. Petosa spends nearly 20 chapters setting up Ally's inevitable return to the City and less than 10 tying up loose ends. Fortunately, I read the epilogue, which throws in an interesting twist that sets up the (upcoming) third book. The jury is still out on whether I'll read it...
September 19, 2013
I was less than pleased with this sequel to Exceptional. While the author has the ingredients for an interesting dystopian world, they never quite all come together. I found the heroine, Ally, to be both unbelievable and unlikeable, and none of the characters seemed really well-developed. Perhaps Ms. Petosa rushed to get the book out?
As Rogue continued, it seemed to have more and more spelling and grammar errors too, which proved distracting. All in all, I'm not sure I'll stay on board for the final book of this trilogy as there are lots of other post-apocalyptic worlds from which to choose.
As Rogue continued, it seemed to have more and more spelling and grammar errors too, which proved distracting. All in all, I'm not sure I'll stay on board for the final book of this trilogy as there are lots of other post-apocalyptic worlds from which to choose.
November 18, 2013
I’m not really sure how I feel about this one; I guess if I had to explain it, I would say that it feels like there is something missing. It didn't suck me in at the beginning, but I kept reading because I really enjoyed the first book. I felt there were a few predictable pieces that really could have been written better. Around the 75%-80% mark, I was finally invested and reminded why I enjoyed the first book so much. The love triangle was a tad annoying, but not terrible.
I’m not really sure how I feel about the set up for book three, but I definitely plan to read it.
I’m not really sure how I feel about the set up for book three, but I definitely plan to read it.
April 5, 2013
love the second book. it is more fast paced than the first book. well, turns out after humans mutate, some traits remain with them no matter what changes happen to their bodies, i.e. the thirst for power and control (among others) and of course not forgetting, the fight for freedom over the oppressed and etc.
this time, ally finds herself in more peril (of course). true friends are getting harder to find and will she ever find the freedom that she seeks? well, i cannot wait for the finale! who will she be with and how this world will end or will there be a new beginning?
this time, ally finds herself in more peril (of course). true friends are getting harder to find and will she ever find the freedom that she seeks? well, i cannot wait for the finale! who will she be with and how this world will end or will there be a new beginning?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 19, 2013
I have never written a review even for other books I read and loved but this time I had to. I was relating what I read over the weekend to a coworker and she said it sounded like another book I'd read. I protested but then started thinking she might be right. I just finished it and BOY was she (and I) wrong. This book had me guessing and in suspense more than others I've read and enjoyed. Great job, Jess! I don't usually hold out much hope for series holding my interest but you got me. I eagerly anticipate book 3!
August 2, 2013
I don't know why but I am so torn over this book. There are parts where I was like yes, and other times I was like no! And other times I found myself just skimming to see if Ally and Luke would ever get back together. I would have liked to have seen the tension in those last few pages be brought out more, but I love the set up for book 3!
Ughk Pax, how could you! Aden you got what you deserve. I love Luke's mom, even though we didn't see much of her in book 2. Rune, saw you coming a mile away little girl! grrrrr!
Ughk Pax, how could you! Aden you got what you deserve. I love Luke's mom, even though we didn't see much of her in book 2. Rune, saw you coming a mile away little girl! grrrrr!
October 30, 2013
My reason for one star was not because of the book but more because of the author. I'm really dissapointed on J. Petossa, she hasn't posted on her blog any updates on the next book. She hasn't answered any of her fans questions. It's frustrating when you purchase the series but don't know if the author will ever write the last book. Oh, I loved the story and give the books 4 stars. I'd tell readers not to read the first two because they will only be dissapointed when they can't read the last one. I'm bummed at the author.
December 25, 2013
I actually liked this book more than the first! It has a lot more character depth to it! I actually can't decide who Ally should be with, Max, or Luke. Max is a lot more adventury and outdoorsy, but he is a bit stubborn and I think a bit possessive. Luke is sweet and kind, but in this book when he forgot about Ally I got suspicious that maybe that's what he really is like, but then Ally changed him for the better. Okay! I think she should be with Luke, but I wouldn't be too upset if she ended up with Max. But anyway, this is a great book! Can't wait for the third!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews