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Article 5 #3
Three
Ember Miller and Chase Jennings are ready to stop running. After weeks spent in hiding as two of the Bureau of Reformation’s most wanted criminals, they have finally arrived at the safe house, where they hope to live a safe and quiet existence.
And all that’s left is smoking ruins.
Devastated by the demolition of their last hope, Ember and Chase follow the only thing left to them—tracks leading away from the wreckage. The only sign that there may have been survivors.
With their high profile, they know they can’t stay out in the open for long. They take shelter in the wilderness and amidst the ruins of abandoned cities as they follow the tracks down the coast, eventually finding refugees from the destroyed safe house. Among them is someone from Chase’s past—someone he never thought he’d see again.
Banding together, they search for a place to hide, aiming for a settlement a few of them have heard about…a settlement that is rumored to house the nebulous organization known as Three. The very group that has provided Ember with a tiny ray of hope ever since she was first forced on the run.
Three is responsible for the huge network of underground safe houses and resistance groups across the country. And they may offer Ember her only chance at telling the world her story.
At fighting back.
And all that’s left is smoking ruins.
Devastated by the demolition of their last hope, Ember and Chase follow the only thing left to them—tracks leading away from the wreckage. The only sign that there may have been survivors.
With their high profile, they know they can’t stay out in the open for long. They take shelter in the wilderness and amidst the ruins of abandoned cities as they follow the tracks down the coast, eventually finding refugees from the destroyed safe house. Among them is someone from Chase’s past—someone he never thought he’d see again.
Banding together, they search for a place to hide, aiming for a settlement a few of them have heard about…a settlement that is rumored to house the nebulous organization known as Three. The very group that has provided Ember with a tiny ray of hope ever since she was first forced on the run.
Three is responsible for the huge network of underground safe houses and resistance groups across the country. And they may offer Ember her only chance at telling the world her story.
At fighting back.
384 pages, Unknown Binding
First published February 11, 2014
106 people are currently reading
6435 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Simmons
26 books2,013 followersKristen Simmons is the critically-acclaimed young adult author of the dystopian Article 5 trilogy, The Deceivers boarding-school thriller series, and speculative fiction stand-alones, PACIFICA, METALTOWN, and THE GLASS ARROW. She has co-written the magic-wielding, gladiator fantasies, SET FIRE THE GODS and RISE UP FROM THE EMBERS, and created the yōkai horror, FIND HIM WHERE YOU LEFT HIM DEAD. She is also the author of spicy adult thrillers, including The Masseuse Series and The Talent Trilogy (for mature audiences only).
Her work has received star reviews, librarian recognitions, and been nominated for the Edgar Award and Anthony Award for best young adult mystery. Several of her titles are included in junior high and high school reading curricula, and are used in reluctant reader programs nationwide.
Kristen’s writing is inspired by her work with trauma survivors as a mental health therapist, specializing with soldiers with PTSD and individuals in foster care. She currently lives with her husband and son in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she spins stories, herds a small pack of semi-wild dogs, and teaches Jazzercise.
Follow Kristen on Facebook (Author Kristen Simmons) and Instagram at @kris10writes.
Her work has received star reviews, librarian recognitions, and been nominated for the Edgar Award and Anthony Award for best young adult mystery. Several of her titles are included in junior high and high school reading curricula, and are used in reluctant reader programs nationwide.
Kristen’s writing is inspired by her work with trauma survivors as a mental health therapist, specializing with soldiers with PTSD and individuals in foster care. She currently lives with her husband and son in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she spins stories, herds a small pack of semi-wild dogs, and teaches Jazzercise.
Follow Kristen on Facebook (Author Kristen Simmons) and Instagram at @kris10writes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 458 reviews
September 29, 2014
Dear Kristen Simmons:
I’m not even sure where I’m supposed to start or what I’m supposed to say about this final book in the Article 5 series. It’s bittersweet for sure, because I’ve loved this series and its characters from the second I picked up the first book. Chase and Ember have pulled me into their lives, and I’m sad to see the end… but as you might have seen in my last update, this was perfection. I couldn’t have asked for anything better.
Three starts shortly after the end of Breaking Point, and Chase, Ember and the members of their small group are trying to find a safe place for everyone. The ruins of the safe house they were looking for are behind them now, and as they hide and take shelter in the abandoned cities and shells of homes along their path, they search for a new safe house. They aren’t without hope because they continue to see signs of Three, an organization they hope will be able to help them.
Along the way, Chase encounters someone he never expected to see again, and who impacts this story in more ways than one.
Of course the path Chase and Ember follow isn’t easy. How could it be? Even when they find the place they think could become a safe haven, they are faced with questionable allies, uprisings on the outside and betrayal.
I’m not going to say anything more about the story, I won’t ruin the amazing job that Simmons has done here, but I’m going to give you 10 reasons why you should read:
1. Action, Action, Action – this book is so full of it you won’t be able to put it down because there just isn’t a good place to stop.
2. Kissing.
3. The barn.
4. Amazing characters who jump off the page and into your heart. I adore Ember and her determination and Chase and his perseverance and Sean and Rebecca are just as wonderful.
5. Belt Loops I reached for his waistband, threaded a finger through the belt loop, and pulled him closer.
6. Kissing.
7. The relationships complicated or not between each and every one of these characters.
8. The Swoon – I felt the rough skin, the ridges, tracing the map of his body. And waited.
“Two months in I tried to run.” A hint of a smile touched his lips. “There was this girl at home. The kind that made you want to try.”
9. Kissing.
10. The Sweet –“You’re the prettiest thing I’ve ever seen.”
Basically I marked the crap out of this book and I plan to reread this whole series back to back when the book comes out in February. Now, please forgive me for this vague, flaily, non-review review LOL
Simmons had me on the edge of my seat with every twist and turn as I read… I never knew who to trust or who was on which side and still she managed to swoon the crap out of me. You can’t help but root for Chase and Ember and those fighting the injustices piled on them.
I laughed, I cheered, I flailed and I swooned while reading this. I swear you will do the same. If you haven’t started this series you’re missing out on an incredible story with amazing characters that will burrow their way into your heart.
For a fast-paced, action filled dystopian series this is one you can’t miss out on. Thank you to Kristen for sharing Chase & Ember's amazing story with us readers.
Thank you to Kristen for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
I’m not even sure where I’m supposed to start or what I’m supposed to say about this final book in the Article 5 series. It’s bittersweet for sure, because I’ve loved this series and its characters from the second I picked up the first book. Chase and Ember have pulled me into their lives, and I’m sad to see the end… but as you might have seen in my last update, this was perfection. I couldn’t have asked for anything better.
Three starts shortly after the end of Breaking Point, and Chase, Ember and the members of their small group are trying to find a safe place for everyone. The ruins of the safe house they were looking for are behind them now, and as they hide and take shelter in the abandoned cities and shells of homes along their path, they search for a new safe house. They aren’t without hope because they continue to see signs of Three, an organization they hope will be able to help them.
Along the way, Chase encounters someone he never expected to see again, and who impacts this story in more ways than one.
Of course the path Chase and Ember follow isn’t easy. How could it be? Even when they find the place they think could become a safe haven, they are faced with questionable allies, uprisings on the outside and betrayal.
I’m not going to say anything more about the story, I won’t ruin the amazing job that Simmons has done here, but I’m going to give you 10 reasons why you should read:
1. Action, Action, Action – this book is so full of it you won’t be able to put it down because there just isn’t a good place to stop.
2. Kissing.
3. The barn.
4. Amazing characters who jump off the page and into your heart. I adore Ember and her determination and Chase and his perseverance and Sean and Rebecca are just as wonderful.
5. Belt Loops I reached for his waistband, threaded a finger through the belt loop, and pulled him closer.
6. Kissing.
7. The relationships complicated or not between each and every one of these characters.
8. The Swoon – I felt the rough skin, the ridges, tracing the map of his body. And waited.
“Two months in I tried to run.” A hint of a smile touched his lips. “There was this girl at home. The kind that made you want to try.”
9. Kissing.
10. The Sweet –“You’re the prettiest thing I’ve ever seen.”
Basically I marked the crap out of this book and I plan to reread this whole series back to back when the book comes out in February. Now, please forgive me for this vague, flaily, non-review review LOL
Simmons had me on the edge of my seat with every twist and turn as I read… I never knew who to trust or who was on which side and still she managed to swoon the crap out of me. You can’t help but root for Chase and Ember and those fighting the injustices piled on them.
I laughed, I cheered, I flailed and I swooned while reading this. I swear you will do the same. If you haven’t started this series you’re missing out on an incredible story with amazing characters that will burrow their way into your heart.
For a fast-paced, action filled dystopian series this is one you can’t miss out on. Thank you to Kristen for sharing Chase & Ember's amazing story with us readers.
Thank you to Kristen for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
February 18, 2014
Spoilers
Unremarkable… The plot was predictable, the characters were generic, and everything else was mostly uninteresting. I guess the writing and world building were decent enough but those didn't make up for the utterly boring story and characters.
-What's what: Ember, Chase, and their group go on the run from the Moral Militia/evul government regime. Naturally, the bland teenagers decide to find other rebels and take down the government fuckers.
-Ember and Chase were the typical boring YA characters. Chase was blah, emo, and self-pitying. Ember was a self righteous, do goody cow, and a know it all. She was also quite contradictory, she whined about Three/the rebel leader not fighting the bad guys and then when he did organise a team to fight the bad guys she whined about him doing that. What did the jammy cow want?! Ugh, she was so judgmental and contrary, nothing was ever good enough for her.
-I rolled my eyes at whiny Ember coming up with the solution to defeat the government. I find it highly unlikely that someone more smarter and older couldn't have come up with something that a silly teenager could think of. And not only that, she became the figure head of the revolution as well, because apparently dull teenagers are inspiring. I didn't buy a bland and not very intelligent teenager being the driving force behind the revolution. Yet the wiser, more experienced adults couldn't come up with any decent ideas or stories that could motivate the people. Yea, right.
-The secondary characters were rubbish: Sean and Rebecca were boring, Billy was an annoying prat, and Tucker was a douche.
-It was bizarre how Ember seemed to genuinely care about Tucker when he'd not only killed her mum and loads of her friends, he also betrayed her dozens of time and nearly killed her. Even if he did do the right thing at the end she shouldn't have given a fuck about him, instead she felt conflicted and seemed to mostly care about him. I'm sick of all the forgiving and pathetically compassionate heroines.
-Every character seemed to constantly scowl, frown, and narrow their eyes. Apparently, no other facial expressions exist.
-The ending and resolution to the story was pretty good, there was loads of action and plenty of focus on how Ember and co won the war against the evul government. It was a better ending than Delirium, Matched, and Divergent.
All in all, it wasn't the worst dystopia I've ever read but it was still quite poor. So yea, I'm glad the trilogy is over.
Unremarkable… The plot was predictable, the characters were generic, and everything else was mostly uninteresting. I guess the writing and world building were decent enough but those didn't make up for the utterly boring story and characters.
-What's what: Ember, Chase, and their group go on the run from the Moral Militia/evul government regime. Naturally, the bland teenagers decide to find other rebels and take down the government fuckers.
-Ember and Chase were the typical boring YA characters. Chase was blah, emo, and self-pitying. Ember was a self righteous, do goody cow, and a know it all. She was also quite contradictory, she whined about Three/the rebel leader not fighting the bad guys and then when he did organise a team to fight the bad guys she whined about him doing that. What did the jammy cow want?! Ugh, she was so judgmental and contrary, nothing was ever good enough for her.
-I rolled my eyes at whiny Ember coming up with the solution to defeat the government. I find it highly unlikely that someone more smarter and older couldn't have come up with something that a silly teenager could think of. And not only that, she became the figure head of the revolution as well, because apparently dull teenagers are inspiring. I didn't buy a bland and not very intelligent teenager being the driving force behind the revolution. Yet the wiser, more experienced adults couldn't come up with any decent ideas or stories that could motivate the people. Yea, right.
-The secondary characters were rubbish: Sean and Rebecca were boring, Billy was an annoying prat, and Tucker was a douche.
-It was bizarre how Ember seemed to genuinely care about Tucker when he'd not only killed her mum and loads of her friends, he also betrayed her dozens of time and nearly killed her. Even if he did do the right thing at the end she shouldn't have given a fuck about him, instead she felt conflicted and seemed to mostly care about him. I'm sick of all the forgiving and pathetically compassionate heroines.
-Every character seemed to constantly scowl, frown, and narrow their eyes. Apparently, no other facial expressions exist.
-The ending and resolution to the story was pretty good, there was loads of action and plenty of focus on how Ember and co won the war against the evul government. It was a better ending than Delirium, Matched, and Divergent.
All in all, it wasn't the worst dystopia I've ever read but it was still quite poor. So yea, I'm glad the trilogy is over.
Want to read
August 16, 2013. . 2014? d- don't do this to me
February 20, 2014
4-4.5 Stars! Possible review to come after a re-read so that I have time to gather my thoughts....
Emotionally it was a fantastic book. I cried my eyes out for a good portion of the book. I loved the plot twists and how well rounded the characters were..I only wish that we would have gotten a little bit more answers from the book...
Read with you own caution for there will be major spoilers below.
I LOVE this author and all the fantastic writing she's put into these books. I could stay up all night analyzing every little thought she wrote, but at the end of day it's just one of those series that will always stick with me and always be one my favorites. The morals and the goodness of Ember and Chase is inspiring and I found myself crying for even the bad guys...what author has the talent for that? That's so hard to make you feel for even the bad ones...
Emotionally it was a fantastic book. I cried my eyes out for a good portion of the book. I loved the plot twists and how well rounded the characters were..I only wish that we would have gotten a little bit more answers from the book...
Read with you own caution for there will be major spoilers below.
I LOVE this author and all the fantastic writing she's put into these books. I could stay up all night analyzing every little thought she wrote, but at the end of day it's just one of those series that will always stick with me and always be one my favorites. The morals and the goodness of Ember and Chase is inspiring and I found myself crying for even the bad guys...what author has the talent for that? That's so hard to make you feel for even the bad ones...
Want to read
April 8, 2013AHH!! I cannot wait for this! I love Chase and Sean!! GET BACK IN MY LIFE BOYS!
February 11, 2014
I am shaking right now while writing this review! My emotions are on overdrive, and I have to do something with my hands before I hyperventilate!
This book was emotionally-packed! With this being the last book in the ARTICLE 5 series, Kristen Simmons did not hold back one bit, no she went all out! Throughout most of this book, mainly the last half or so, I was on edge, I was in horror at some of the gruesome things that were happening, but I was also in awe at some of the indescribable events that were unfolding! I loved every minute of this book, and I wouldn't change a single thing about it! This series will forever go down as one of the best dystopian series I have ever read!
Kristen Simmons knows how to stay true to the dystopian roots, and how to interweave, in the stuff we all love; action, adventure, betrayal, survival, war, love, and a fight for freedom! I am so incredibility sad to see this series end! I just picked up ARTICLE 5 last month, and when I was finished,
THE PLOT...
THREE picks up where BREAKING POINT left off! Ember and Chase has gotten Rebecca back from the rehabilitation Center, they have helped in the resistance, they have aided people in their time of need. They have done all they can, they are ready to stop running, and fighting! They finally made it to the safe house, their supposedly "Safe heaven" that will be their sanctuary, where they can just...live! But when they get there, they're dreams are shattered! It's gone!!! Completely GONE! Burned to the ground, with the innocent people with it! All the lives and secrets it holds, up in smoke!
The Moral Militia has struck again! They are killing more of the resistance with each passing day, and they seem one step ahead of them! Ember and Chase are done! They are done running, and hiding from the very system that has taken their lives, and the lives of the ones they love! They are ready to take a stand...and fight back, and they are not stopping until the FBR is destroyed!
After Ember and Chase find the destruction of the safe house up in smoke, they find signs of survivors. Signs that some people did make it out, and that they're trekking away from the safe house towards something...or someone!
Ember, Chase, Sean, Rebecca, and a couple of the non-injured people in their group, head away from the remains of the safe house to track the remaining survivors so they can re-group as a team, and figure out what's next! Ember and Chase know in-order to win this war, they will need to find this mysterious Rebel Organization, THREE!
But where are they? How can they find them? And are they really who they say they are? And if so, are they ready to take the final stand against The Federal Bureau of Reformation and end this war for good....?
Ember and Chase will go on their final battle to save not only themselves, but the rest of the people under the Federal Bureau Of Reformation's rule.
The fight is all but here, Ember & Chase have beaten everything the FBR has thrown at them. They are stronger, wiser, and more determined then ever to take the FBR down and finished them for good!
Ember will take a stand, she will tell her story to everyone, she will let it be known what has been done to her! She will speak for every girl, mother, father, brother, uncle, aunt, every person unable to stand, she will stand for them, in hopes that when the time comes, they will stand for themselves! She will lead the change...or die trying!
I couldn't say to much as far as the plot is concerned without giving spoilers, and I do not want to spoil a single part of this EXPLOSIVE Finale! It is the perfect conclusion for the ARTICLE 5!
THREE was really everything I was hoping for! It tied up all the lose ends that I was dying to know. It one way or another "Ended the War" I won't say which way or what. But I can happily say that THREE delivered! And at the same time, I am so happy it's finally here, but I am incredibly sad too, and I am not ready to say good bye! But, if I must, then I am happy to have it end now, the way it did!
So Kristen Simmons, I have just one thing to say,
BRAVO!!
NOTE: I received a copy of THREE for review from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own, and are not influenced in any way!
***Thanks Tor Teen***
February 14, 2014
*Genre* Dystopian Romance
*Rating* 4.0
*My Thoughts*
"When a government becomes destructive, it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it, and to institute a new government."
I absolutely must admit that I held out longer than I expected in reading this book even though some of my favorite reviewers have raved about Three. Even though Tor Teen kindly allowed me access to this title back in December, I have had a few roadblocks in finally picking up this story and reading it through to the end.
You see gentle readers, I have not had the best luck when it comes to the final story of trilogies, or series in general. The lack of finality, the way characters were killed off, the way characters ending up losing their memories and flashing ahead 10 years in advance and presuming that the main characters would finally get together. I am a demanding reviewer/reader who really does like things tied up into a nice little bow, and given to me like it was my birthday. I don't like WHAT IF's and let us presume that..... UH no!
But, lo and behold Three came to my rescue and has given me hope that I can once again read and enjoy final installments without feeling let down, or going on a rant and rave for days on end. Thank you Kristen Simmons for writing this trilogy and giving me everything that I expect. You have mysterious characters, romance that grows even stronger, suspense at whether or not your favorite characters will survive, action that isn't lame or boring, and surprising characters who show up and change the course of the story in a way that leaves you wondering if they are good guys or bad buys.
The final installment of Article 5, Three, picks up right where Breaking Point left off. Ember Miller, Chase Jennings, Billy, Sean, Rebecca, and other survivors find themselves searching for a place to lay low and settle down after their safe house was obliterated by the FBR and Moral Militia. One of the mysteries of this series has always been, who is the mysterious THREE, and where has this person, or persons been and what do they have in store for the FBR, and MM as well as Chase and Ember who have become more than a thorn in the side of the FBR and MM with their actions?
What readers expect from Simmons is more of Ember and Chase. More character growth. More Ember finally growing up and not letting Chase pick up the pieces after she rushes headstrong into dangerous situations where she needs rescuing. I think Simmons does a fairly decent job on this front. I like Ember. I like the fact that she's accepted who she is and what is expected from her and goes even further in her determination to finally beat the FBR at their own game. I loved the fact that the romance between Ember and Chase has peeked to the point where you knew that if they survived the onslaught they were facing, then everything was going to be just fine.
I loved how Simmons threw in a few surprises like the identity of Three, and someone from Chase's background that he didn't think he would ever see again. I like how characters presumed to be out of the picture, made their way back in surprising ways. I think one of the best things about Three was that even though Ember and Chase are the main characters, Sean, Rebecca, Billy, and others are not left out of the loop.
The only reason I did not rate this higher, and it's nit picking on my part, but I would have loved to had a POV from Chase when the story reaches a certain crescendo and he faces his mortality. I think it would have added a bit of spicy and intrigue to he story.
Thank you Netgalley & Tor Teen for allowing me to read and review this book. No monies changed hands during the course of this transaction. I review out of love and the enjoyment of reading!
*Recvd 12/10/2013 via NetGalley* Published February 11th 2014 by Tor Teen
*Rating* 4.0
*My Thoughts*
"When a government becomes destructive, it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it, and to institute a new government."
I absolutely must admit that I held out longer than I expected in reading this book even though some of my favorite reviewers have raved about Three. Even though Tor Teen kindly allowed me access to this title back in December, I have had a few roadblocks in finally picking up this story and reading it through to the end.
You see gentle readers, I have not had the best luck when it comes to the final story of trilogies, or series in general. The lack of finality, the way characters were killed off, the way characters ending up losing their memories and flashing ahead 10 years in advance and presuming that the main characters would finally get together. I am a demanding reviewer/reader who really does like things tied up into a nice little bow, and given to me like it was my birthday. I don't like WHAT IF's and let us presume that..... UH no!
But, lo and behold Three came to my rescue and has given me hope that I can once again read and enjoy final installments without feeling let down, or going on a rant and rave for days on end. Thank you Kristen Simmons for writing this trilogy and giving me everything that I expect. You have mysterious characters, romance that grows even stronger, suspense at whether or not your favorite characters will survive, action that isn't lame or boring, and surprising characters who show up and change the course of the story in a way that leaves you wondering if they are good guys or bad buys.
The final installment of Article 5, Three, picks up right where Breaking Point left off. Ember Miller, Chase Jennings, Billy, Sean, Rebecca, and other survivors find themselves searching for a place to lay low and settle down after their safe house was obliterated by the FBR and Moral Militia. One of the mysteries of this series has always been, who is the mysterious THREE, and where has this person, or persons been and what do they have in store for the FBR, and MM as well as Chase and Ember who have become more than a thorn in the side of the FBR and MM with their actions?
What readers expect from Simmons is more of Ember and Chase. More character growth. More Ember finally growing up and not letting Chase pick up the pieces after she rushes headstrong into dangerous situations where she needs rescuing. I think Simmons does a fairly decent job on this front. I like Ember. I like the fact that she's accepted who she is and what is expected from her and goes even further in her determination to finally beat the FBR at their own game. I loved the fact that the romance between Ember and Chase has peeked to the point where you knew that if they survived the onslaught they were facing, then everything was going to be just fine.
I loved how Simmons threw in a few surprises like the identity of Three, and someone from Chase's background that he didn't think he would ever see again. I like how characters presumed to be out of the picture, made their way back in surprising ways. I think one of the best things about Three was that even though Ember and Chase are the main characters, Sean, Rebecca, Billy, and others are not left out of the loop.
The only reason I did not rate this higher, and it's nit picking on my part, but I would have loved to had a POV from Chase when the story reaches a certain crescendo and he faces his mortality. I think it would have added a bit of spicy and intrigue to he story.
Thank you Netgalley & Tor Teen for allowing me to read and review this book. No monies changed hands during the course of this transaction. I review out of love and the enjoyment of reading!
*Recvd 12/10/2013 via NetGalley* Published February 11th 2014 by Tor Teen
May 3, 2014
Review also posted at Ja čitam, a ti?
Another grand finale I've been waiting for and sadly once again I wish I could say it blew me away but it seems to me I expected too much. Ember and Chase's story is something I've been enjoying since Article 5 and I really loved all the twists and happenings in the first two books. Sadly this one wasn't as thrilling but still Kristen Simmons gave us satisfying ending.
On of the things I like about this series is that each book continues where the previous stopped. It feels like you never left the world of the characters and you easily slip into the whole story and you start experiencing everything with the characters. After many troubles in Breaking Point our group is searching for survivors from the safe house. They are tired and drained but still they aren't giving up. But on their way they are thrown into something they never could believe existed.
What I enjoyed the most is how with the characters the whole world grew. Not only main characters but secondary as well. I really liked Rebecca and Sean and their dynamic. But then there is my Chase, my dear Chase *le sigh* I don't think I ever meet more troubled and at the same time loving boy. It was painful to see him struggle but also it was nice to see how his and Ember's love grew.
Problem was the first part of the book which wasn't as strong as the last 100 pages which brought back the story as I knew it and reminded me why I love it so much. I didn't say it was bad but it wasn't as good as I was used to. All in all, I'm gonna miss these people. So farewell.
Another grand finale I've been waiting for and sadly once again I wish I could say it blew me away but it seems to me I expected too much. Ember and Chase's story is something I've been enjoying since Article 5 and I really loved all the twists and happenings in the first two books. Sadly this one wasn't as thrilling but still Kristen Simmons gave us satisfying ending.
On of the things I like about this series is that each book continues where the previous stopped. It feels like you never left the world of the characters and you easily slip into the whole story and you start experiencing everything with the characters. After many troubles in Breaking Point our group is searching for survivors from the safe house. They are tired and drained but still they aren't giving up. But on their way they are thrown into something they never could believe existed.
What I enjoyed the most is how with the characters the whole world grew. Not only main characters but secondary as well. I really liked Rebecca and Sean and their dynamic. But then there is my Chase, my dear Chase *le sigh* I don't think I ever meet more troubled and at the same time loving boy. It was painful to see him struggle but also it was nice to see how his and Ember's love grew.
Problem was the first part of the book which wasn't as strong as the last 100 pages which brought back the story as I knew it and reminded me why I love it so much. I didn't say it was bad but it wasn't as good as I was used to. All in all, I'm gonna miss these people. So farewell.
May 13, 2015
3.5 hearts
Everything was wrapped up in a nice little package. I shouldn't be upset with the ending, I'm not really but there are some unanswered questions. Also, things got a little too predictable. Not all of it, but a good majority. This doesn't help things.
The pacing in this book is slower. The action does pick up but its deep. The more I read YA series like these I'm reminded how authors could really consolidate a good portion of these books.
The cast in this series is certainly not my favorite. I never liked Ember. One part of this book that really upsets me is towards the middle/last part of the book where her ideas are used. Her ideas, when there is someone with the rebels that probably could have came up with the idea in his sleep. It's just strange that they would go with the idea of a teenager when there is a much more experienced mind in play.
Also, I was underwhelmed with Three. We finally meet Three. I've been excited for this and it was just a whole lot different than I had imagined, especially after there was so much suspense surrounding who Three was.
It does wrap up everything nicely though, like I said. The second book for me is obviously the best, but many people didn't enjoy that one. It's a imaginative series and the world does have much more building in the second and third book. It's worth taking a look at, but if you don't, you aren't going to be entirely sad about it either.
Everything was wrapped up in a nice little package. I shouldn't be upset with the ending, I'm not really but there are some unanswered questions. Also, things got a little too predictable. Not all of it, but a good majority. This doesn't help things.
The pacing in this book is slower. The action does pick up but its deep. The more I read YA series like these I'm reminded how authors could really consolidate a good portion of these books.
The cast in this series is certainly not my favorite. I never liked Ember. One part of this book that really upsets me is towards the middle/last part of the book where her ideas are used. Her ideas, when there is someone with the rebels that probably could have came up with the idea in his sleep. It's just strange that they would go with the idea of a teenager when there is a much more experienced mind in play.
Also, I was underwhelmed with Three. We finally meet Three. I've been excited for this and it was just a whole lot different than I had imagined, especially after there was so much suspense surrounding who Three was.
It does wrap up everything nicely though, like I said. The second book for me is obviously the best, but many people didn't enjoy that one. It's a imaginative series and the world does have much more building in the second and third book. It's worth taking a look at, but if you don't, you aren't going to be entirely sad about it either.
April 10, 2020
I'm not sure whether this was a full 4-star-read or just a 3,5...but whatever, I really enjoyed this conclusion to the Article 5 trilogy!
Ember and Chase are finally getting in touch with the rebel organisation called "Three" in this final book. This means the introduction of some new characters (but we meet some old friends (?) again as well). Again I loved Ember and Chase's relationship, they're so cute together and I'm glad there wasn't a love triangle in this one. Yes, NO love triangle!
The book pulled me right back into the world which I could picture very well thanks to Kristen Simmons' writing style. But, however, the first half of the book was sometimes a bit dragging. There wasn't much happening, it was more a discovering of new surroundings and getting to know new characters. This is fine for some chapters, but overall I found it a bit too long in this book. It wasn't until the last third until the real action started.
And the action was just as I hoped it would be - exciting and I couldn't put the book down! Ok, some things were a bit unrealistic, but let's not forget that books are a work of fiction, so I wasn't that much bothered by that.
The ending was well done imo, it didn't feel rushed. While the action scenes were fast paced and quite some deaths happened, Kristen Simmons took the time to mourn the lost characters and wrote an epilogue that fit the story (not just this book, but the whole trilogy).
So, the middle part was a bit slow and I had some minor issues with some things, but all in all "Three" was an exciting read that I do not regret! I'd recommend this trilogy for sure!
Ember and Chase are finally getting in touch with the rebel organisation called "Three" in this final book. This means the introduction of some new characters (but we meet some old friends (?) again as well). Again I loved Ember and Chase's relationship, they're so cute together and I'm glad there wasn't a love triangle in this one. Yes, NO love triangle!
The book pulled me right back into the world which I could picture very well thanks to Kristen Simmons' writing style. But, however, the first half of the book was sometimes a bit dragging. There wasn't much happening, it was more a discovering of new surroundings and getting to know new characters. This is fine for some chapters, but overall I found it a bit too long in this book. It wasn't until the last third until the real action started.
And the action was just as I hoped it would be - exciting and I couldn't put the book down! Ok, some things were a bit unrealistic, but let's not forget that books are a work of fiction, so I wasn't that much bothered by that.
The ending was well done imo, it didn't feel rushed. While the action scenes were fast paced and quite some deaths happened, Kristen Simmons took the time to mourn the lost characters and wrote an epilogue that fit the story (not just this book, but the whole trilogy).
So, the middle part was a bit slow and I had some minor issues with some things, but all in all "Three" was an exciting read that I do not regret! I'd recommend this trilogy for sure!
August 11, 2018
Meh. Tween cheese. She couldn’t even get the wounds right. First it was on the right. Then later. The left. Which side boo???
Cheese. Cheese. Cheese. Good thing our “heroine” always had a dude to rescue her from every situation ever. Jesse. Tucker. Chase. She didn’t do a damn thing on her own. Always some dude saving her naive butt.
I still don’t exactly get the ending. Why certain people shot others and what not. I dunno maybe I got lost in the melee. I’ve read worse series. But I’ve def read better. It was just ok for me.
Cheese. Cheese. Cheese. Good thing our “heroine” always had a dude to rescue her from every situation ever. Jesse. Tucker. Chase. She didn’t do a damn thing on her own. Always some dude saving her naive butt.
I still don’t exactly get the ending. Why certain people shot others and what not. I dunno maybe I got lost in the melee. I’ve read worse series. But I’ve def read better. It was just ok for me.
March 2, 2014
The last 100 pages were SO GOOD! The reason why I have this 5 stars.
I'm going to miss Ember and Chase so much <3
---
I am eternally grateful towards Kristen Simmons for writing such a fantastic last book in a dystopian trilogy. I've had my share of bad endings to dystopian trilogies and I was a bit scared for Article 5. I've read Article 5 two years ago when it first came out and I've been a fan since then. I loved the uniqueness of the world Simmons created as well as the road trip twist in the first book. Breaking Point was another fabulous addition but I didn't love it as much as Article 5. However, Three outdid them both. This book was just so freaking good. I honestly can not fault it. I loved every second of every single thing, whether normal conversation with the characters or action scenes that made my heart race. Three did not just meet my expectations, it solidified my love for this trilogy.
I know I've had issues with how Ember always runs away from her problems in both Article 5 and a bit in Breaking Point. However Ember meets her demons, the corrupt government, and the hopes of millions of people head on in Three. Even with her decision to finally fight the government, she still had her insecurities and worries and even hopeless monologues. I appreciated that.. it showed me that Ember did develop as a character and human but she is still Ember. I also loved Chase here. Often do the love interest in books lose their footing and place in the main protagonist's world. Here, Chase was as strong as ever. They are my second favorite dystopian couple after Aria and Perry from Under the Never sky trilogy. They both were independent but leaned on each other when they needed to. They didn't see their need and want for each other as a sign of weakness but at the same time gave each other the space they need to sort out their own problems. I truly love them and I am so sad that their adventure, well the one I can witness, is over now the trilogy is complete. I would really petition for a novella if Simmons would right one <3
We've also got the memorable secondary characters, especially Sean and Rebecca. I loved that they stuck around to the end of the trilogy and I honestly loved the complicated friendship and relationship they all had with each other. Of course this book is not short on the action; There is action scene after another and the characters are never really given a break. I loved that despite it being 400 pages, the pages flew by. I can't recommend this trilogy enough and even if I did before, I now urge all the readers, especially fans of dystopian novels, to pick it up. I can't wait for Kristen Simmons' new work, I already have her upcoming novel on my tbr!
I'm going to miss Ember and Chase so much <3
---
I am eternally grateful towards Kristen Simmons for writing such a fantastic last book in a dystopian trilogy. I've had my share of bad endings to dystopian trilogies and I was a bit scared for Article 5. I've read Article 5 two years ago when it first came out and I've been a fan since then. I loved the uniqueness of the world Simmons created as well as the road trip twist in the first book. Breaking Point was another fabulous addition but I didn't love it as much as Article 5. However, Three outdid them both. This book was just so freaking good. I honestly can not fault it. I loved every second of every single thing, whether normal conversation with the characters or action scenes that made my heart race. Three did not just meet my expectations, it solidified my love for this trilogy.
I know I've had issues with how Ember always runs away from her problems in both Article 5 and a bit in Breaking Point. However Ember meets her demons, the corrupt government, and the hopes of millions of people head on in Three. Even with her decision to finally fight the government, she still had her insecurities and worries and even hopeless monologues. I appreciated that.. it showed me that Ember did develop as a character and human but she is still Ember. I also loved Chase here. Often do the love interest in books lose their footing and place in the main protagonist's world. Here, Chase was as strong as ever. They are my second favorite dystopian couple after Aria and Perry from Under the Never sky trilogy. They both were independent but leaned on each other when they needed to. They didn't see their need and want for each other as a sign of weakness but at the same time gave each other the space they need to sort out their own problems. I truly love them and I am so sad that their adventure, well the one I can witness, is over now the trilogy is complete. I would really petition for a novella if Simmons would right one <3
We've also got the memorable secondary characters, especially Sean and Rebecca. I loved that they stuck around to the end of the trilogy and I honestly loved the complicated friendship and relationship they all had with each other. Of course this book is not short on the action; There is action scene after another and the characters are never really given a break. I loved that despite it being 400 pages, the pages flew by. I can't recommend this trilogy enough and even if I did before, I now urge all the readers, especially fans of dystopian novels, to pick it up. I can't wait for Kristen Simmons' new work, I already have her upcoming novel on my tbr!
December 22, 2014
I’m pissed off at this series sense book one. Why, oh, why did I read all 3 of them? Don't ask me, I don’t know!
The plot and its twist were way to naïve for the audience it was intended and the subject it covered. And before you go on and attack me saying I’m too old for this book, I’ll tell you – I’ve read plenty of books in this genre that had insightful and original plots and not at all stupid.
This whole series would've made much more sense if it was placed in the universe inhabited and ruled by preteens.
*Example: They escaped from prison in the first book simply by treating the Guard to TELL ON HIM if he doesn't let them go.
The MC was shaped like amoeba. She felt like blob moving through the story.
Was she pretty – I don’t know, in my mind eye all I saw was a blob (can a blob be pretty?). Was she smart? – I don’t know, all I saw was a blob (no place for brain in the blob, thought). Was she funny? No.
Her voice was that of a middle aged woman way past her prime - monotone and jaded. I understand when person goes through a lot and ages beyond its actual age, but this lady was never young to begin with.
Its obvious that this book was solely written for the romance which unsurprisingly was the only think worth reading.
So, if you feel like reading romance in a dystopian setting - read something else.
for more rents (and actual reviews) go to:
The plot and its twist were way to naïve for the audience it was intended and the subject it covered. And before you go on and attack me saying I’m too old for this book, I’ll tell you – I’ve read plenty of books in this genre that had insightful and original plots and not at all stupid.
This whole series would've made much more sense if it was placed in the universe inhabited and ruled by preteens.
*Example: They escaped from prison in the first book simply by treating the Guard to TELL ON HIM if he doesn't let them go.
The MC was shaped like amoeba. She felt like blob moving through the story.
Was she pretty – I don’t know, in my mind eye all I saw was a blob (can a blob be pretty?). Was she smart? – I don’t know, all I saw was a blob (no place for brain in the blob, thought). Was she funny? No.
Her voice was that of a middle aged woman way past her prime - monotone and jaded. I understand when person goes through a lot and ages beyond its actual age, but this lady was never young to begin with.
Its obvious that this book was solely written for the romance which unsurprisingly was the only think worth reading.
So, if you feel like reading romance in a dystopian setting - read something else.
for more rents (and actual reviews) go to:
April 25, 2015
After reading “Three”, the finale to the wonderful “Article 5″ series, I feel as though I have found a true unicorn. It is easily one of the strongest and most satisfying endings to a series I have ever read. It is all wrapped up nicely, nothing comes out of nowhere, the characters remain true to what has been established about them and their reactions throughout the series right until the very last sentence, and there is no excruciatingly long epilogue that feels as though it is trying to cram in an entire book. Perfection.
The action is essentially non-stop, and there are more than a few plot twists thrown in to keep things interesting. They all make perfect sense, effectively keeping the reader from experiencing “Dystopian Series Finale Whiplash”. This is something I truly appreciate, because so often the last book is the weakest, and the author drops in things never even hinted at in the previous series installments. None of that nonsense here. This plot is solid.
All of our favorite characters, including (of course) Ember and Chase, have a prominent story arc. They continue to grow and evolve according to the situations that they face, while also maintaining the personalities the author established way back in “Article 5″. All aspects of them are explored, and it truly feels as though the reader was a part of watching them grow from teenagers into mature young adults.
“Three” is by far the strongest of the “Article 5″ series, which is a high compliment considering how much I have enjoyed them all. I can’t recommend it enough for those who have been reading the series all along. If you’re a fan of young adult dystopias with excellent world-building and character development, but have yet to read the series, by all means start now. I really don’t think you will regret it.
Thank you, Kristen Simmons, for sharing Ember and Chase’s world with us.
The action is essentially non-stop, and there are more than a few plot twists thrown in to keep things interesting. They all make perfect sense, effectively keeping the reader from experiencing “Dystopian Series Finale Whiplash”. This is something I truly appreciate, because so often the last book is the weakest, and the author drops in things never even hinted at in the previous series installments. None of that nonsense here. This plot is solid.
All of our favorite characters, including (of course) Ember and Chase, have a prominent story arc. They continue to grow and evolve according to the situations that they face, while also maintaining the personalities the author established way back in “Article 5″. All aspects of them are explored, and it truly feels as though the reader was a part of watching them grow from teenagers into mature young adults.
“Three” is by far the strongest of the “Article 5″ series, which is a high compliment considering how much I have enjoyed them all. I can’t recommend it enough for those who have been reading the series all along. If you’re a fan of young adult dystopias with excellent world-building and character development, but have yet to read the series, by all means start now. I really don’t think you will regret it.
Thank you, Kristen Simmons, for sharing Ember and Chase’s world with us.
Want to read
March 31, 2013I CAN'T WAIT! YOU CAN'T DO THIS TO ME! IM WAITING FOR TOO MANY BOOKS RIGHT NOW AND I SWEAR I WILL GO MORE INSANE THEN I ALREADY AM IF I HAVE TO WAIT THAT LONG!
September 11, 2017
Great YA dystopian series! I seriously loved the world that Kristen Simmons created. This is a dystopian world that somehow feels more "real" and I think that is why this series resonated with me. Goodreads is not the place for politics, but I can draw some parallels between this fictional world and what is going on in the current world. I think that is why I liked this book as much as I did. I also loved how the author handled things like war and deception. One of my biggest pet peeves in real life and literature is when things are portrayed as just black and white, without the varying shades of grey. Just because you fight for one side, it doesn't make you inherently evil or righteous. There are millions of stories and choices that are both right and wrong. My choices aren't going to be someone else's choices, but that doesn't mean that I'm correct and they aren't. I feel like sometimes people overlook the fact that things are a lot deeper and more complicated that a simple, shallow, good verses evil scenario. This book touched on all the grey in between and I loved it!
I did have some minor issues with the book, but overall, I really enjoyed it! I feel like Chase disappeared after the first book. I realize that in the first book, it was mostly just Ember and Chase. In the second book, he seemed to drift away and the only things we learned about Chase was Ember's perception of him (if that makes any sense). Like we didn't read about him personally enjoying fighting for a cause, but instead read about how Ember thought that his distance from her and drive to fight meant he enjoyed it. Does that make sense? It seemed we stopped learning about him as a person after the first book and it was all about Ember's perception of him, whether right or wrong, in the next two. I also wish that the author had a little wrap up section at the end to explain what happened with some characters. But I loved the deceptions and the twists!
Definitely recommend if you're looking for a YA dystopian.
I did have some minor issues with the book, but overall, I really enjoyed it! I feel like Chase disappeared after the first book. I realize that in the first book, it was mostly just Ember and Chase. In the second book, he seemed to drift away and the only things we learned about Chase was Ember's perception of him (if that makes any sense). Like we didn't read about him personally enjoying fighting for a cause, but instead read about how Ember thought that his distance from her and drive to fight meant he enjoyed it. Does that make sense? It seemed we stopped learning about him as a person after the first book and it was all about Ember's perception of him, whether right or wrong, in the next two. I also wish that the author had a little wrap up section at the end to explain what happened with some characters. But I loved the deceptions and the twists!
Definitely recommend if you're looking for a YA dystopian.
February 8, 2014
The original review of this title can be found
here
on The Book Hookup.
**SPECIAL NOTE:** An eARC of this title was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. However, that did not influence this review in any way. All thoughts, quotes, and opinions will be of this version and not of the published edition.
♠ Initial Thoughts and Rating: 5 stars! Packed with action, long-awaited revelations, and sweet, swoony moments, Three was everything I could have hoped for in the conclusion of this series. Ms. Simmons rocked it out in style, managing to pull me back into this tale and romance with only the kind of ease a skilled writer can. If you’re looking for a good dystopian that’s unique in plot and light–though it burns intensely– on the romance side of the story, then look no further than Kristen Simmons’s Article 5 series.
♠ The Lowdown: Three picks up right where we left off in Breaking Point, where Chase, Ember, and a small group of refugees had arrived at the safe house only to find that it was completely demolished. Their only saving grace from falling into despair over their loss of finally finding freedom is the tracks that lead away from the wreckage, giving them a flicker of hope that there were survivors. Following this trail soon leads to Chase encountering someone from his past that he thought was long gone, only they’re alive and could be the key to finding the illustrious Three, the head organization for the rebel movement.
But even if they do find them, their fight wouldn’t be over. As the head of resistance operations, they’d want them to stand up and wage war alongside the other rebels. They’d want them to take back the country. Ember just has to decide, once and for all, if she’s strong enough to make a final stand.
♠ My Thoughts: SPOILER FREE! Just when I think this series couldn’t get any better, Simmons shocks me with the impact her stories make. Each novel builds on its predecessor, and that leaves Three being the biggest and baddest of the entire series. Now at the finish line and looking back, it’s easy to see how carefully crafted this series has been from the very first building stone in Article 5. I can’t imagine how difficult it must be to plot the tale of these three books as a combined unit, how each story would be navigated and the journey that each character, especially Ember and Chase, would undergo, and how each of those aspects would tie collectively to the arc as a whole. But kudos, Ms. Simmons, for doing it flawlessly.
As for Three as an individual novel, it was riveting from beginning to end. My biggest grievance (and it was really small, to be honest) with the previous two books had been the secrecy that surrounded the government and the rebellion and its links to Three, and I can say that every question that I ever had was answered in this novel. But more importantly, it was addressed in a way that left me completed satisfied and understanding to why it had to remain private until those pivotal moments. I appreciated that Chase and Ember’s romance was allowed a little more attention that it had in the first two books as well. It still wasn’t the main focus of the book, but it was great to see them grow together and watch their relationship fully realized. Lastly, the pacing and plotting in this novel were perfection. I felt like it kept my heart thundering and I was shocked by betrayal at every turn. I didn’t know who to trust and how it would all unfold, but it was done amazingly well, and I’m grateful for that. Also? The epilogue gave me all the feels. I couldn’t have asked for it to end for any better… except maybe a few deaths less of characters I’d grown fond of, but that’s all I can say on that.
♠ Swoons: Though the romance between Ember and Chase has never been at the forefront of this series, there were definitely more kissing swoony moments in this book. I loved it!
♠ Swoony Teaser:
♥
(Even Ember managed to swoon me in this book.)
♠ Rec It? Yes, it was a fantastic conclusion to an incredible series; I’m recommending everyone read them. Simmons knocked it out of the park with this final installment. I’m sad to see this story go, and I’ll truly miss all the characters (even some of the bad guys), but I’ll carry them in my heart for always.
♥ A very special thanks to Tor Teen and NetGalley for providing me with an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.
Christina's Review:
**SPECIAL NOTE:** An eARC of this title was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. However, that did not influence this review in any way. All thoughts, quotes, and opinions will be of this version and not of the published edition.
♠ Initial Thoughts and Rating: 5 stars! Packed with action, long-awaited revelations, and sweet, swoony moments, Three was everything I could have hoped for in the conclusion of this series. Ms. Simmons rocked it out in style, managing to pull me back into this tale and romance with only the kind of ease a skilled writer can. If you’re looking for a good dystopian that’s unique in plot and light–though it burns intensely– on the romance side of the story, then look no further than Kristen Simmons’s Article 5 series.
♠ The Lowdown: Three picks up right where we left off in Breaking Point, where Chase, Ember, and a small group of refugees had arrived at the safe house only to find that it was completely demolished. Their only saving grace from falling into despair over their loss of finally finding freedom is the tracks that lead away from the wreckage, giving them a flicker of hope that there were survivors. Following this trail soon leads to Chase encountering someone from his past that he thought was long gone, only they’re alive and could be the key to finding the illustrious Three, the head organization for the rebel movement.
But even if they do find them, their fight wouldn’t be over. As the head of resistance operations, they’d want them to stand up and wage war alongside the other rebels. They’d want them to take back the country. Ember just has to decide, once and for all, if she’s strong enough to make a final stand.
♠ My Thoughts: SPOILER FREE! Just when I think this series couldn’t get any better, Simmons shocks me with the impact her stories make. Each novel builds on its predecessor, and that leaves Three being the biggest and baddest of the entire series. Now at the finish line and looking back, it’s easy to see how carefully crafted this series has been from the very first building stone in Article 5. I can’t imagine how difficult it must be to plot the tale of these three books as a combined unit, how each story would be navigated and the journey that each character, especially Ember and Chase, would undergo, and how each of those aspects would tie collectively to the arc as a whole. But kudos, Ms. Simmons, for doing it flawlessly.
As for Three as an individual novel, it was riveting from beginning to end. My biggest grievance (and it was really small, to be honest) with the previous two books had been the secrecy that surrounded the government and the rebellion and its links to Three, and I can say that every question that I ever had was answered in this novel. But more importantly, it was addressed in a way that left me completed satisfied and understanding to why it had to remain private until those pivotal moments. I appreciated that Chase and Ember’s romance was allowed a little more attention that it had in the first two books as well. It still wasn’t the main focus of the book, but it was great to see them grow together and watch their relationship fully realized. Lastly, the pacing and plotting in this novel were perfection. I felt like it kept my heart thundering and I was shocked by betrayal at every turn. I didn’t know who to trust and how it would all unfold, but it was done amazingly well, and I’m grateful for that. Also? The epilogue gave me all the feels. I couldn’t have asked for it to end for any better… except maybe a few deaths less of characters I’d grown fond of, but that’s all I can say on that.
♠ Swoons: Though the romance between Ember and Chase has never been at the forefront of this series, there were definitely more kissing swoony moments in this book. I loved it!
♠ Swoony Teaser:
“Two months in I tried to run.” A hint of a smile touched his lips. “There was this girl at home. The kind that made you want to try.”
~quote taken from my eARC of Three at 12%
♥
(Even Ember managed to swoon me in this book.)
“We’re all broken,” I said. “We just have to put each other back together.”
My loose fist holding the flower came to rest in the center of his chest, locked between us. He leaned down, his forehead touching mine. His eyes closed.
“What if I’m too far gone?”
“Then I’ll find you,” I said. “And I’ll bring you back.”
~quote taken from my eARC of Three at 21%
♠ Rec It? Yes, it was a fantastic conclusion to an incredible series; I’m recommending everyone read them. Simmons knocked it out of the park with this final installment. I’m sad to see this story go, and I’ll truly miss all the characters (even some of the bad guys), but I’ll carry them in my heart for always.
♥ A very special thanks to Tor Teen and NetGalley for providing me with an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.
July 19, 2017
You guys. If you have not read this series yet you are missing out! I decided to re-read via audio and I don't regret a thing...it is as good as the book in my hands. If you are looking for a dystopian with strong characters, a great storyline and a swoony boy (I'm looking at you Chase Jennings) definitely check this out. The narrator does a great job!
January 1, 2018
4.5 stars...Listened to audio of entire series; Loved all three books but did think there was too much self-reflection by both Ember and Chase throughout the entire series.
May 6, 2016
This year seems to be the year all of my favorite YA series are ending. There's always that feeling of sadness that overcomes me when I have to say goodbye to characters that I've grown attached to over the years. Ah the problems that we book nerds face! While I was full of grief while finishing Three, I was also completely satisfied because Kristen Simmons gave me a series that will remain engraved in my mind probably for the rest of my life.
I'm never really sure what to write in my reviews for series finales, because I'm worried that I'm going to spoil other readers, but I'm going to try here. Three begins where Breaking Point left off. The ending of Breaking Point emotionally broke me, not because it ended in a cliffhanger, but it felt like there was absolutely no hope for the characters in this book to come out safely. Ember and Chase. *sighs* These two characters were just so brave. They had gone through so much grief and pain throughout their short life and I wanted nothing more than for them to have that HEA that they entirely deserved. While Kristen Simmons did end the book on a relatively positive note, she did manage to stab me in the heart over and over again. Ember and Chase proved continuously that they were perfect for each other. Their romance has always been a favorite aspect of this series for me and in Three, it was even more perfect. Their relationship grew even further and I loved loved loved the fact that there was never any kind of unnecessary drama-for-entertainment-purposes in their relationship. Ember and Chase were such a great couple. The kissing scenes and the romantic things they said to each other gave me butterflies. Several times throughout the book, I found myself swooning over them because their romance had this tenderness and passion to it. I pretty much fainted by the barn scene. They do go through multiple obstacles throughout the series, but which couple doesn't? Besides the truly wonderful characters, the Article 5 series also graces us a great secondary cast. Sean and Rebecca, especially, and maybe even Trevor, were some of my favorites. I loved that Kristen Simmons bothered to develop each and everyone of them.
The plot did slow down, especially towards the middle, but I never felt like it dragged or that it bored me. In fact, I was thoroughly entertained throughout the entirety of this novel. I went through a roller-coaster of emotions while reading and I was left pretty much exhausted. In the end, it was all worth it. The last few chapters were brilliantly executed and I don't think this series could have ended in a better way. The world-building was as always strong and despite this being the last book, I learned even more about the brutality and the harshness that Ember and Chase lived through. I don't think I need to mention this, but I will anyways ; Kristen Simmons is one talented author and if you haven't read this series yet, do read it so that you can discover the beauty of her writing style. I personally can't wait to read her future projects because I'm sure they will be as fantastic as The Article 5 series.
Three was a brilliant conclusion to one of my favorite YA dystopian series. Kristen Simmons could not have ended it in a better way. Thank you Kristen Simmons, for giving me a series that I will undoubtedly be re-reading multiple times again.
February 2, 2014
I used to say that there was nothing worse than reviewing sequels, but I officially take that statement back because reviewing the third book in a series is definitely worse. There are people who can manage without spoiling anything and I just don’t get how they do it. So be prepared, there will probably be spoilers up ahead. Note: Scratch that, I actually managed to make this spoiler free!!!
What can I say about Three that I haven’t already said about Breaking Point and Article 5 hmm… Well, I can say that the action in this one is pretty constant just like the first two books in the series. The pacing of these books is always a highlight for me because it just never lets up. Even in the calmest of moments there is always a dark cloud overhead that has you anticipating what will come next. Three also maintains the solid world building that I have come to expect from the series. We explore much more of the red zone and see how different colonies of rebels are living their lives.
The best part of Three for me is the way that Ember and Chase’s relationship really grows a lot. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I love how solid the relationship between these two is and how it never becomes the sole focus of the series. You know, through the small moments they get with one another, that they are 100% with each other but it never becomes what they are about. They are still independent and go about their business with others just as they would if they were single. It seems like most romances in YA these days are all consuming and end up defining the characters but I never get that feeling from these two.
Stepping back and looking at this book as a finale is what leaves me a little less than impressed. Don’t get me wrong, I loved the book, but I feel like the culminating action was a little rushed after all of the build-up that we went through. While reading I remember checking the page number when all the finale stuff started being put into play and I was shocked to find that there were a mere 40 pages left. The action of those last sequences were sped through really quickly and some of the motivations for the things that happened were left largely unexplained. I would have liked a bit more of a wrap up here but in the epilogue we do get a sense of finality that I was happy with.
This is by far one of my favourite dystopian series and I am so sad to be saying goodbye to these characters. If you haven’t started this series I think you definitely should. Simmons has a way of snaking her characters into your heart and a way of keeping you on the edge of your seat at all times.
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For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads
What can I say about Three that I haven’t already said about Breaking Point and Article 5 hmm… Well, I can say that the action in this one is pretty constant just like the first two books in the series. The pacing of these books is always a highlight for me because it just never lets up. Even in the calmest of moments there is always a dark cloud overhead that has you anticipating what will come next. Three also maintains the solid world building that I have come to expect from the series. We explore much more of the red zone and see how different colonies of rebels are living their lives.
The best part of Three for me is the way that Ember and Chase’s relationship really grows a lot. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I love how solid the relationship between these two is and how it never becomes the sole focus of the series. You know, through the small moments they get with one another, that they are 100% with each other but it never becomes what they are about. They are still independent and go about their business with others just as they would if they were single. It seems like most romances in YA these days are all consuming and end up defining the characters but I never get that feeling from these two.
Stepping back and looking at this book as a finale is what leaves me a little less than impressed. Don’t get me wrong, I loved the book, but I feel like the culminating action was a little rushed after all of the build-up that we went through. While reading I remember checking the page number when all the finale stuff started being put into play and I was shocked to find that there were a mere 40 pages left. The action of those last sequences were sped through really quickly and some of the motivations for the things that happened were left largely unexplained. I would have liked a bit more of a wrap up here but in the epilogue we do get a sense of finality that I was happy with.
This is by far one of my favourite dystopian series and I am so sad to be saying goodbye to these characters. If you haven’t started this series I think you definitely should. Simmons has a way of snaking her characters into your heart and a way of keeping you on the edge of your seat at all times.
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For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads
August 22, 2015
Ember a Chase jsou odhodlaní přestat utíkat, bezpečný dům, do něhož mířili, byl srovnán se zemí. Přestože jsou zničeni z toho, že jim byla sebrána i poslední naděje, nevzdávají se a začnou hledat poslední přeživší rebely.
Ví totiž, že je to jejich jediná naděje na přežití, protože je Reformní policie hledá úplně všude. Jsou na seznamu hledaných osob jedni z nejdůležitějších a žádný z vojáků by se dvakrát nezdráhal jim prohnat hlavou kulku.
Hledají tajnou základnu rebelské organizace, kterou všichni znají pod označením Trojice. Nikdo pořádně neví, o koho se jedná, ani kde se nachází, všichni ale věří, že je Trojice už blízko k tomu, aby svrhla špatnou vládu země a nastolila opět pořádek. Jenže nic není tak černobílé...
Došla jsem k názoru, že tuhle sérii prostě vůbec nechápu. Buď je tak dobrá a promyšlená, že ji prostě nepobírám, nebo je naprosto mimoidní a nepochopitelná. Tak či tak jsem ráda, že už ji mám za sebou a upřímně nevím, jestli bych ji vůbec někomu doporučila, protože ještě teď jsem ze všech těch odhalení a neodhalení naprosto zmatená.
Velké zklamání přichází z toho, že jsem doteď nepochopila, proč mezi sebou státy světa válčily, ani proč se pak válčilo v USA. Pochopila jsem důvod a důsledek vzniku Trojice, odhalení a pohnutky jejích členů byly poměrně překvapivé i jejich konečné kroky.
Ve válce je bohužel mnoho obětí, mnoho smrti a bolesti, nenadálých útoků a padlých. Tady mi to ale přišlo neskutečně přehnané. Dvojitých agentů tam bylo tolik, že jsem nějak přestala sledovat dění, nových postav tam snad bylo ještě víc než v prvním a druhém díle, ti, co byli mrtví, najednou žili a ti, co měli žít a zasloužili si to, upírali jak na běžícím páse a rozhodně ne všechno bylo logicky vysvětleno a dotáhnuto do konce. Prostě mimózní až hrůza.
Vztah Ember a Chase v naší telenovele dosáhl svého vrcholu, kdy jsem já nestačila valit oči nad tím, co všechno Ember vůbec dokáže udělat a není jí to nijak proti srsti, zatímco se snad neustále ohání morálními zásadami, kterými se sama neřídí. Jediné poselství, s nímž souhlasím a o němž snad ví každý z nás je to, že nikdo není jen dobrý nebo zlý, každý v sobě máme kus toho i onoho a je jen na nás, jak s tím naložíme.
------------Reakce po dočtení knihy-------------
Mám pocit, že jsem tuhle sérii vůbec nepochopila.
Ví totiž, že je to jejich jediná naděje na přežití, protože je Reformní policie hledá úplně všude. Jsou na seznamu hledaných osob jedni z nejdůležitějších a žádný z vojáků by se dvakrát nezdráhal jim prohnat hlavou kulku.
Hledají tajnou základnu rebelské organizace, kterou všichni znají pod označením Trojice. Nikdo pořádně neví, o koho se jedná, ani kde se nachází, všichni ale věří, že je Trojice už blízko k tomu, aby svrhla špatnou vládu země a nastolila opět pořádek. Jenže nic není tak černobílé...
Došla jsem k názoru, že tuhle sérii prostě vůbec nechápu. Buď je tak dobrá a promyšlená, že ji prostě nepobírám, nebo je naprosto mimoidní a nepochopitelná. Tak či tak jsem ráda, že už ji mám za sebou a upřímně nevím, jestli bych ji vůbec někomu doporučila, protože ještě teď jsem ze všech těch odhalení a neodhalení naprosto zmatená.
Velké zklamání přichází z toho, že jsem doteď nepochopila, proč mezi sebou státy světa válčily, ani proč se pak válčilo v USA. Pochopila jsem důvod a důsledek vzniku Trojice, odhalení a pohnutky jejích členů byly poměrně překvapivé i jejich konečné kroky.
Ve válce je bohužel mnoho obětí, mnoho smrti a bolesti, nenadálých útoků a padlých. Tady mi to ale přišlo neskutečně přehnané. Dvojitých agentů tam bylo tolik, že jsem nějak přestala sledovat dění, nových postav tam snad bylo ještě víc než v prvním a druhém díle, ti, co byli mrtví, najednou žili a ti, co měli žít a zasloužili si to, upírali jak na běžícím páse a rozhodně ne všechno bylo logicky vysvětleno a dotáhnuto do konce. Prostě mimózní až hrůza.
Vztah Ember a Chase v naší telenovele dosáhl svého vrcholu, kdy jsem já nestačila valit oči nad tím, co všechno Ember vůbec dokáže udělat a není jí to nijak proti srsti, zatímco se snad neustále ohání morálními zásadami, kterými se sama neřídí. Jediné poselství, s nímž souhlasím a o němž snad ví každý z nás je to, že nikdo není jen dobrý nebo zlý, každý v sobě máme kus toho i onoho a je jen na nás, jak s tím naložíme.
------------Reakce po dočtení knihy-------------
Mám pocit, že jsem tuhle sérii vůbec nepochopila.
July 5, 2015
Another series ended... and it is not that well.
So Three is the third novel/conclusion to the Article 5 series (the second is
Anyway, Three is the head of the ones that is against the MM or for short the head of the rebel groups. On the three books the plot are quite similar: finding a safehouse, someone is caught and they will break him or her out of the prison/camp/"circus"/whatever-the-place-is-called. And also on this there are many people who is "dead" that is really alive or alive that become dead (of course expect deaths in the finale) and good turns bad and vice versa.
From the first book the plot should increase but here it is just a flatline, it doesn't become exciting as the plot progresses.
Rating: 2.5 stars but gonna round up to Three for Three the book three of the Article 5 Three-logy.
Hoping that the Glass Arrow, Kristen Simmons's standalone book would be really good.
January 10, 2015
3.5-4 stars
As you probably know by now, I’ve dedicated myself to reading one series a month for the foreseeable future, and for January I chose Article 5 by Kristen Simmons. It’s a series that’s been on my radar for a while now, despite how mixed reviews are for the first book. I haven’t read many dystopian books that don’t include some sort of fantasy or futuristic element, so I was definitely curious about this more contemporary-style dystopia and what type of world Kristen Simmons created. But let’s be honest: I loved the fact that it was a YA trilogy without a love triangle, all too rare these days, so that was an automatic win for me. I ended up reading all three books in the span of about a week, i.e. I could hardly put them down. It’s a very addicting, fast-paced series. However, I do have some issues, mainly with the main character and the vague worldbuilding, but thankfully by the third book they are mostly resolved.
Read the rest of my review for the entire series at Love at First Page!
As you probably know by now, I’ve dedicated myself to reading one series a month for the foreseeable future, and for January I chose Article 5 by Kristen Simmons. It’s a series that’s been on my radar for a while now, despite how mixed reviews are for the first book. I haven’t read many dystopian books that don’t include some sort of fantasy or futuristic element, so I was definitely curious about this more contemporary-style dystopia and what type of world Kristen Simmons created. But let’s be honest: I loved the fact that it was a YA trilogy without a love triangle, all too rare these days, so that was an automatic win for me. I ended up reading all three books in the span of about a week, i.e. I could hardly put them down. It’s a very addicting, fast-paced series. However, I do have some issues, mainly with the main character and the vague worldbuilding, but thankfully by the third book they are mostly resolved.
Read the rest of my review for the entire series at Love at First Page!
March 22, 2014
Well last night I finally finished this trilogy of books and after liking but not totally loving the last one, I can happily say that I did love how this wrapped up.
I don’t like to reveal too much of the plot as you are going to read the book!, but I can say there are lots of deaths, people who aren't who they seem to be, faces from the past and most importantly Ember and Chase’s love story continues alongside nicely.
I am a huge fan of dystopian fiction and this series had not disappointed, the ending is explosive and I notice from the authors notes she was in labour whilst she finished these scenes and she apologises for the violence.
I am looking forward to reading more of her work, it would be nice to find out maybe in the form of a novella how the characters continue on after the end of this book.
I don’t like to reveal too much of the plot as you are going to read the book!, but I can say there are lots of deaths, people who aren't who they seem to be, faces from the past and most importantly Ember and Chase’s love story continues alongside nicely.
I am a huge fan of dystopian fiction and this series had not disappointed, the ending is explosive and I notice from the authors notes she was in labour whilst she finished these scenes and she apologises for the violence.
I am looking forward to reading more of her work, it would be nice to find out maybe in the form of a novella how the characters continue on after the end of this book.
August 11, 2016
I read the first two in the series and was eagerly anticipating the release of this novel, however, I was sadly dissapointed.
Unlike the other two books, I didn't feel like I was with them, I just felt like I was watching them like a detached unemotional extra limb.
Ember and Chase don't want to be slit up, which was basically the whole story.
Ooh, Chase was taken? Jesse didn't save him? Ember. Must. Save. Chase.
Unlike the other two books, I didn't feel like I was with them, I just felt like I was watching them like a detached unemotional extra limb.
Ember and Chase don't want to be slit up, which was basically the whole story.
Ooh, Chase was taken? Jesse didn't save him? Ember. Must. Save. Chase.
January 26, 2014
Это было круто!!!
Read
September 25, 2020 Our two main characters who will dominate the book are Chase and Ember. These two will continue to do everything in their power to get themselves killed but then survive for the book. This is not as much of a spoiler as it should be. The secondary characters names are Sean, Rebecca, Billy, and Tucker. These characters are flat and mostly static as they go on adventures that should change their personalities.
Tucker had killed Ember's mother, repeatedly betrayed her trust, killed her friends, and the final nail in the coffin: he killed her mother. Yet, she still trusts him, she still entrusts him with her life. She did not have to trust him, she was in a position where she could have left him for dead. Ember was inside of a military base that opposed the government and had every right to leave him for dead. She always had suspicions about him, but this was brought to the forefront of how she acted. Ember shouldn't be someone who forgives everyone who has betrayed and her gets away with that. She doesn't need to be forgiving and perfect. She's the protagonist who should have character flaws so that she can have a character arch.
Ember continually acted stuck up and insensitive to the person she claimed to love the most, Chase. Chase was having a crisis in his masculinity; his uncle had recounted old stories of how he used to be weaker and revealed that he still thinks of Chase in that light. Chase is obviously struggling with this so we move to a scene with Ember and Chase alone. Chase starts to show some anger and sadness towards the situation, Ember only seemed capable of being snarky and saying, "You don't scare me" (). This really annoyed me because of the fact that it is not seem as a character flaw. This struggle for Chase is left behind and we just have to assume that Ember's snarky comments and misunderstanding saved him.
Something more positive is the environment and the setting in which the characters make their way around. I really liked the world that they were set in. The image of the place in which the characters reside is truly incredible. The description of the little village on the river was incredible. The description of the children playing and the cooks working hard to produce what they would eat for that night. When they walked into an old dinner and how the author described the torn up seats and ravaged kitchen was a highlight of his book. All in all, the setting and the mood of the story were my highlights from this book.
The characters move from place to place running and collecting refugees. They then find a more permanent settlement in Three's camp. This then leads them to have an epic battle against the government that has been corrupted. I will not put in any more descriptions of the plot because even thought this review does have spoilers in it, I won't spoil everything.
Now, the tone and writing style were not my favorite part of the book by a long shot. The writing style could be described as "he scowled" (Every page Kristen Simmons). If her stories landscape hadn't been as interesting as it was then the writing style wouldn't have had as much to lean on. The setting carried the writing style in many ways. The tone was through the eyes of a self righteous can-do-no-wrong character. This really took away from the plot as Ember became the leader of the resistance and her plan that she was not really equipped to actually come up with, worked. I don't understand how a bland teenager could become the leader of something that important and then her having the knowledge for some reason to able to take on a government with far more weapons, power, and people is truly remarkable.
The book didn't make me feel much of anything except confusion and disbelief. I will most likely forget this book as there really is not anything to make me remember it. A group of people who should be the most interesting group of people to walk the earth, somehow aren't. I could connect with Chase in some ways but then Ember's actions took over what could have been an interesting side conflict. Chase trying to prove to his only family member he has left, that he is a true man. That could have been an incredible struggle that would lead to his actions being more desperate and uninformed.
Tucker had killed Ember's mother, repeatedly betrayed her trust, killed her friends, and the final nail in the coffin: he killed her mother. Yet, she still trusts him, she still entrusts him with her life. She did not have to trust him, she was in a position where she could have left him for dead. Ember was inside of a military base that opposed the government and had every right to leave him for dead. She always had suspicions about him, but this was brought to the forefront of how she acted. Ember shouldn't be someone who forgives everyone who has betrayed and her gets away with that. She doesn't need to be forgiving and perfect. She's the protagonist who should have character flaws so that she can have a character arch.
Ember continually acted stuck up and insensitive to the person she claimed to love the most, Chase. Chase was having a crisis in his masculinity; his uncle had recounted old stories of how he used to be weaker and revealed that he still thinks of Chase in that light. Chase is obviously struggling with this so we move to a scene with Ember and Chase alone. Chase starts to show some anger and sadness towards the situation, Ember only seemed capable of being snarky and saying, "You don't scare me" (). This really annoyed me because of the fact that it is not seem as a character flaw. This struggle for Chase is left behind and we just have to assume that Ember's snarky comments and misunderstanding saved him.
Something more positive is the environment and the setting in which the characters make their way around. I really liked the world that they were set in. The image of the place in which the characters reside is truly incredible. The description of the little village on the river was incredible. The description of the children playing and the cooks working hard to produce what they would eat for that night. When they walked into an old dinner and how the author described the torn up seats and ravaged kitchen was a highlight of his book. All in all, the setting and the mood of the story were my highlights from this book.
The characters move from place to place running and collecting refugees. They then find a more permanent settlement in Three's camp. This then leads them to have an epic battle against the government that has been corrupted. I will not put in any more descriptions of the plot because even thought this review does have spoilers in it, I won't spoil everything.
Now, the tone and writing style were not my favorite part of the book by a long shot. The writing style could be described as "he scowled" (Every page Kristen Simmons). If her stories landscape hadn't been as interesting as it was then the writing style wouldn't have had as much to lean on. The setting carried the writing style in many ways. The tone was through the eyes of a self righteous can-do-no-wrong character. This really took away from the plot as Ember became the leader of the resistance and her plan that she was not really equipped to actually come up with, worked. I don't understand how a bland teenager could become the leader of something that important and then her having the knowledge for some reason to able to take on a government with far more weapons, power, and people is truly remarkable.
The book didn't make me feel much of anything except confusion and disbelief. I will most likely forget this book as there really is not anything to make me remember it. A group of people who should be the most interesting group of people to walk the earth, somehow aren't. I could connect with Chase in some ways but then Ember's actions took over what could have been an interesting side conflict. Chase trying to prove to his only family member he has left, that he is a true man. That could have been an incredible struggle that would lead to his actions being more desperate and uninformed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2022
3.5 stars
November 25, 2019
A stunning read that I hated to finish. It was the perfect ending, however, to Chase and Ember’s story!
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