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Blemished #3
The Unleashed
“I wanted to live. I wanted us to have a future, and there was nothing else on my mind. With Daniel by my side I ran so fast my lungs ached.”
Mina’s world is turned upside down as an important person from her past materialises to take her away from the Compound. She finds herself separated from her friends and facing life-changing decisions on her own.
Meanwhile Daniel is on a mission to find Mina when he becomes involved in the Resistance – along with the rest of the Freaks. His visions take their toll as he learns of an event that could devastate the people he loves the most. Only he can stop it.
Angela finds herself on the adventure of a lifetime as she helps Sebastian find his father in Area 14. After action and adventure on the way there, the group are thrown into another life and death situation... can Angela find a way out?
Fans of the popular YA dystopia series Blemished will not be disappointed by this thrilling conclusion. It will keep you guessing right up to the very last page.
Trust no one.
Mina’s world is turned upside down as an important person from her past materialises to take her away from the Compound. She finds herself separated from her friends and facing life-changing decisions on her own.
Meanwhile Daniel is on a mission to find Mina when he becomes involved in the Resistance – along with the rest of the Freaks. His visions take their toll as he learns of an event that could devastate the people he loves the most. Only he can stop it.
Angela finds herself on the adventure of a lifetime as she helps Sebastian find his father in Area 14. After action and adventure on the way there, the group are thrown into another life and death situation... can Angela find a way out?
Fans of the popular YA dystopia series Blemished will not be disappointed by this thrilling conclusion. It will keep you guessing right up to the very last page.
Trust no one.
331 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
About the author
Sarah Dalton
82 books336 followersSarah grew up in the middle of nowhere in the countryside of Derbyshire and as a result has an over-active imagination. She has been an avid reader for most of her life, taking inspiration from the stories she read as a child, and the novels she devoured as an adult.
Sarah mainly writes speculative fiction for a Young Adult audience and has had pieces of short fiction published in the Medulla Literary Review, PANK magazine, Apex Magazine and the British Fantasy Society publication Dark Horizons. Her short story ‘Vampires Wear Chanel’ is featured in the Wyvern Publication Fangtales.
She is the author of the popular YA dystopia series 'Blemished' and the gothic novella 'My Daylight Monsters'. She is currently working on a YA Fantasy series titled 'White Hart'.
Follow Sarah on twitter @sarahdalton
Sarah mainly writes speculative fiction for a Young Adult audience and has had pieces of short fiction published in the Medulla Literary Review, PANK magazine, Apex Magazine and the British Fantasy Society publication Dark Horizons. Her short story ‘Vampires Wear Chanel’ is featured in the Wyvern Publication Fangtales.
She is the author of the popular YA dystopia series 'Blemished' and the gothic novella 'My Daylight Monsters'. She is currently working on a YA Fantasy series titled 'White Hart'.
Follow Sarah on twitter @sarahdalton
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
June 20, 2013
This finale was anticlimactic. Most of the book showcases Mina being gullible, oblivious, and lacking common sense, with everyone else trying to rescue her and to stay alive in the process.
I liked Ali & Hiro's characters the most. Daniel for the most part was a nice POV to be in. I nod to the author for making the Scottish dialect come out so well on paper. I liked that there was a conclusion to their tale, though it was a bit 'happily ever after.' Yet I sadly can't think of much else to praise. It's not to say that Unleashed or the Blemished series is bad, but I guess it just wasn't the tale for me. I tried really hard to like the series, but something was missing from each one that I can't place my finger on
In this book, Mina's lack of caution and common sense is what really irritated me for the first 3/4 of the book. She blindly trusts a woman she hasn't seen in 10 years over her friends and her father who's cared for her for most of her life. She takes everything at face value. If she stopped to think that maybe he kept the truth from her for a reason, such as to protect her, instead of just focusing on the fact that he lied to her, things would have turned out much better.
Matthew wasn't very bright either. He clearly says at one point that he tortured by the GEM for information about Mina and the Compound. Then when Mina's mother who works for the Ministry steps in, he thinks it totally fine to bring her to Mina AND the Compound? Isn't that just giving the GEM what they were after all along? I'd have lost her as soon as I had gotten free - sister-in-law, mother to my niece, or not. Everyone (including the reader) could see how fake she was, except for Matthew and Mina apparently.
As I mentioned in my review for Vanished, it seemed everyone's tempers flare so easily. I'm not sure why everyone, and I mean everyone, has such short fuses... Speaking of attitudes, the Resistance was just as bad as the GEM in their mentality. Neither one was in the right. Again the author's theme of the need for equality and justice floated along in this book as well.
There were a few grammatical errors and inconsistencies, like Matthew calling Mina's father Jonny when he referred to him as John in Vanished; Hiro calling Mina "Aunty" when in Vanished they said they were like brother & sister. And when did Angela learn to load a gun...? I don't remember her doing any combat in Vanished or in Blemished. Mina's dad monologue with his extended dying breath was lengthy and not surprising. Why couldn't he have just told her from the start? I mean having telekinesis when no one else does would make me assume I wasn't normal. Learning that why I and my friends had those powers was the result of genetic research would make logical sense, considering the Ministry is just around the corner & learning that my mother works for it. Why so hush-hush? And why so shocking to them all when they finally learned the truth?
There were also some random bits. Like the snake when Mina and her mother were 'picnicking.' Surely it was planted. Also when Angela later thinks about a future with Cam, the thought of buying a goat and making cheese seems very out of place with the thought of having kids together and a house by the sea...
Also, Daniel becoming the face of the Resistance seemed a bit unbelievable. His speech wasn't even inspiring. They definitely took his words out of context, especially considering the Resistance was the ones who bombed the civilians in the first place, regardless of whether they were caught in the crossfires or not.
Finally there was mention of the rest of the world. There was only 1-2 sentences in the epilogue simply stating that the world had abandoned them in their time of need. Seriously... It's quite unbelievable that countries would do absolutely nothing, especially when they seem to love to get into each others' business nowadays.
I've said enough. I refrained in my critique of the first two books so I guess I decided to not hold back with this one. In the end, I suppose a fitting conclusion to the series, though a bit anticlimactic.
Note: I received a free, advanced copy from the author in exchange for a honest review.
I liked Ali & Hiro's characters the most. Daniel for the most part was a nice POV to be in. I nod to the author for making the Scottish dialect come out so well on paper. I liked that there was a conclusion to their tale, though it was a bit 'happily ever after.' Yet I sadly can't think of much else to praise. It's not to say that Unleashed or the Blemished series is bad, but I guess it just wasn't the tale for me. I tried really hard to like the series, but something was missing from each one that I can't place my finger on
In this book, Mina's lack of caution and common sense is what really irritated me for the first 3/4 of the book. She blindly trusts a woman she hasn't seen in 10 years over her friends and her father who's cared for her for most of her life. She takes everything at face value. If she stopped to think that maybe he kept the truth from her for a reason, such as to protect her, instead of just focusing on the fact that he lied to her, things would have turned out much better.
Matthew wasn't very bright either. He clearly says at one point that he tortured by the GEM for information about Mina and the Compound. Then when Mina's mother who works for the Ministry steps in, he thinks it totally fine to bring her to Mina AND the Compound? Isn't that just giving the GEM what they were after all along? I'd have lost her as soon as I had gotten free - sister-in-law, mother to my niece, or not. Everyone (including the reader) could see how fake she was, except for Matthew and Mina apparently.
As I mentioned in my review for Vanished, it seemed everyone's tempers flare so easily. I'm not sure why everyone, and I mean everyone, has such short fuses... Speaking of attitudes, the Resistance was just as bad as the GEM in their mentality. Neither one was in the right. Again the author's theme of the need for equality and justice floated along in this book as well.
There were a few grammatical errors and inconsistencies, like Matthew calling Mina's father Jonny when he referred to him as John in Vanished; Hiro calling Mina "Aunty" when in Vanished they said they were like brother & sister. And when did Angela learn to load a gun...? I don't remember her doing any combat in Vanished or in Blemished. Mina's dad monologue with his extended dying breath was lengthy and not surprising. Why couldn't he have just told her from the start? I mean having telekinesis when no one else does would make me assume I wasn't normal. Learning that why I and my friends had those powers was the result of genetic research would make logical sense, considering the Ministry is just around the corner & learning that my mother works for it. Why so hush-hush? And why so shocking to them all when they finally learned the truth?
There were also some random bits. Like the snake when Mina and her mother were 'picnicking.' Surely it was planted. Also when Angela later thinks about a future with Cam, the thought of buying a goat and making cheese seems very out of place with the thought of having kids together and a house by the sea...
Also, Daniel becoming the face of the Resistance seemed a bit unbelievable. His speech wasn't even inspiring. They definitely took his words out of context, especially considering the Resistance was the ones who bombed the civilians in the first place, regardless of whether they were caught in the crossfires or not.
Finally there was mention of the rest of the world. There was only 1-2 sentences in the epilogue simply stating that the world had abandoned them in their time of need. Seriously... It's quite unbelievable that countries would do absolutely nothing, especially when they seem to love to get into each others' business nowadays.
I've said enough. I refrained in my critique of the first two books so I guess I decided to not hold back with this one. In the end, I suppose a fitting conclusion to the series, though a bit anticlimactic.
Note: I received a free, advanced copy from the author in exchange for a honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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January 16, 2015I tried to finish this. It's the last in the trilogy, too!! I couldn't do it. After sitting half-read for months, I'm officially giving up on it.
July 12, 2013
This novel is definitely the most intense of Dalton’s The Blemished series. Intrigue and subterfuge take a stand in a big way amongst the increased action and drama that she brings forth. The real scientific and political possibilities surrounding the concepts behind this novel are just chilling and add to the overall forward motion of the tale. Dalton’s eloquent, well written method of storytelling round this out into a fantastic tale that you won’t want to put down.
The characters that you’ve come to know and love in the first 2 instalments of the series come back with a vengeance in this novel. I appreciate the fact that although each character, regardless of age, race, or ethnicity, has grown throughout the series, no one has miraculously become an entirely new person. You also get to know more about some of the characters’ backgrounds in this tale, making them, and the story as a whole, more rounded and filled out. It’s also very reassuring to see that each character’s speech patterns stay consistent with their native tongue throughout. It adds an extra measure of consistency to this very intriguing tale.
Overall, this was a brilliant conclusion to Dalton’s Blemished Trilogy. She wraps up all events from the past 3 books and gives everyone a sense of conclusion and purpose. That said, she also leaves an opening for more adventures from these characters, so one can only hope.
Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The characters that you’ve come to know and love in the first 2 instalments of the series come back with a vengeance in this novel. I appreciate the fact that although each character, regardless of age, race, or ethnicity, has grown throughout the series, no one has miraculously become an entirely new person. You also get to know more about some of the characters’ backgrounds in this tale, making them, and the story as a whole, more rounded and filled out. It’s also very reassuring to see that each character’s speech patterns stay consistent with their native tongue throughout. It adds an extra measure of consistency to this very intriguing tale.
Overall, this was a brilliant conclusion to Dalton’s Blemished Trilogy. She wraps up all events from the past 3 books and gives everyone a sense of conclusion and purpose. That said, she also leaves an opening for more adventures from these characters, so one can only hope.
Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 22, 2013
I got a copy in exchange for a honest review.
I liked Sarah Dalton's previous works. I liked the blemished and the vanished.
But the unleashed? I must say, not that much.
The unleashed, i dont know how, makes me kinda lost interest with the series. It all begin with the appearance of Mina's mom, Anna. She suddenly comes and claimed she loves Mina very much and all.
Oh she was faked alright. I dont like her a bit. But i really cannot understand why Mina trust her so blindly?
All of sudden, Mina became so childish, silly and lost her all common sense. She even hates her father, the one who raised her all along. Well if only she knows better, the story would unfold better.
And then there's Daniel, a little thing that bothered me is he got a vision from the beginning, and he knew his vision always right, then why not tell everyone earlier?
Well, this novel could have been better i guess. But it maybe just me. Well Mina and Daniel has to act that way to reach the ending. But i cant help feeling so bored reading this.
I liked Sarah Dalton's previous works. I liked the blemished and the vanished.
But the unleashed? I must say, not that much.
The unleashed, i dont know how, makes me kinda lost interest with the series. It all begin with the appearance of Mina's mom, Anna. She suddenly comes and claimed she loves Mina very much and all.
Oh she was faked alright. I dont like her a bit. But i really cannot understand why Mina trust her so blindly?
All of sudden, Mina became so childish, silly and lost her all common sense. She even hates her father, the one who raised her all along. Well if only she knows better, the story would unfold better.
And then there's Daniel, a little thing that bothered me is he got a vision from the beginning, and he knew his vision always right, then why not tell everyone earlier?
Well, this novel could have been better i guess. But it maybe just me. Well Mina and Daniel has to act that way to reach the ending. But i cant help feeling so bored reading this.
August 3, 2016
A fantastic conclusion to this action-packed dystopian story, where war is waged and emotions are high.
I liked the way the chapters were divided so that other voices were heard as well as Mina's, which gave greater depth to this final installment and helped move the story and explain motives.
Secrets are revealed, characters are seen as complex and realistic...nobody is all good or bad, just human. Of course, some are more likeable than others, but the author's skill shines in how each character is portrayed, flaws and all.
A thought-provoking idea, with many issues raised to do with what it is to be human and that perfection is not the answer to happiness.
Brilliantly told.
Highly recommended.
I liked the way the chapters were divided so that other voices were heard as well as Mina's, which gave greater depth to this final installment and helped move the story and explain motives.
Secrets are revealed, characters are seen as complex and realistic...nobody is all good or bad, just human. Of course, some are more likeable than others, but the author's skill shines in how each character is portrayed, flaws and all.
A thought-provoking idea, with many issues raised to do with what it is to be human and that perfection is not the answer to happiness.
Brilliantly told.
Highly recommended.
August 14, 2013
I really don’t want to give it 3 stars because i liked the two before but i just couldn’t get into the story, It was really frustrating the way Mina was acting against her dad and . Also, the attitudes that everyone had during this book were just depressing and not in the compassionate way, they were always whining about something and somehow they always escaped death by some miraculous way.
I liked the epilogue though
I liked the epilogue though
April 14, 2014
I loved the first two books of this series, but found this last one to be a little disappointing. while there was some great stuff going on in the first 3/4 of the book, the ending was somewhat anticlimatic. almost as if the author ran out of steam, and just didn't want to tell the whole story anymore.
I would still recommend it for a fan of the series, just don't expect a stellar ending.
I would still recommend it for a fan of the series, just don't expect a stellar ending.
January 3, 2015
Very good ending to a a great series. I liked how each main character's story was wrapped up in the epilogue. I think the ending was perfect for the series.
September 27, 2022
Mina and her friends are living in harsh times. The Fractured world is a dangerous place. There’s no one they can trust. All that’s left is to fight in wars to protect them.
Mina’s a weapon of war. She fought against Hamish and his men. Her face was plastered on screens exposing how powerful she is.
As the dust begins to settle Mina and her friends begin to rebuild there lives in the Compound. The Ministry isn’t done with them yet.
They get separated from each other after Mina gets reunited with a few unexpected visitors. Her powers are put to the test once again.
The Unleashed tells the story from various perspectives starting with Daniel then Mina and finishing with Angela. The story continues this way from beginning to end.
I found myself once again faced with the same feeling; it’s an okay read. I’m not compelled to read this final book any more than the other two books. Unfortunately, this series didn’t hit the spot for me. It was mediocre at best.
I tried so hard to get excited about this final outcome. It’s not like I don’t enjoy dystopian storyline’s because I do. But I couldn’t help comparing some of the storyline with the Walking Dead. The way the Clans had different agendas with dangerous leaders brainwashing and manipulating people brought me back to those episodes.
Mina’s a weapon of war. She fought against Hamish and his men. Her face was plastered on screens exposing how powerful she is.
As the dust begins to settle Mina and her friends begin to rebuild there lives in the Compound. The Ministry isn’t done with them yet.
They get separated from each other after Mina gets reunited with a few unexpected visitors. Her powers are put to the test once again.
The Unleashed tells the story from various perspectives starting with Daniel then Mina and finishing with Angela. The story continues this way from beginning to end.
I found myself once again faced with the same feeling; it’s an okay read. I’m not compelled to read this final book any more than the other two books. Unfortunately, this series didn’t hit the spot for me. It was mediocre at best.
I tried so hard to get excited about this final outcome. It’s not like I don’t enjoy dystopian storyline’s because I do. But I couldn’t help comparing some of the storyline with the Walking Dead. The way the Clans had different agendas with dangerous leaders brainwashing and manipulating people brought me back to those episodes.
May 23, 2017
This series was just OK for me. I liked the storyline, but the writing was not great. I really struggled to get through this last book.
February 24, 2021
Good series
The characters were well developed. The story progression was quick enough so as to not get bored, but enough details so you understood what was going on.
The characters were well developed. The story progression was quick enough so as to not get bored, but enough details so you understood what was going on.
February 27, 2017
After reading my previous tomes I hung especially at the end or the suspense was at the rendezvous. Some chapters passed by the wayside or I did not quite understand what was going on, but when I was immersed in the book I was hanging too especially with lovable characters. There is Mina, who want to live and not go to war and to build a future with Daniel by his side except that he must find her and finds himself involved in the resistance. There's also Angela who helps Sébastien to find his father in field 14. A breathtaking final.
Après avoir lu mes tomes précédents j'ai accroché surtout à la fin ou le suspens était au rendez-vous. Quelques chapitres passés à la trappe ou je n'ai pas très bien compris ce qui se passait mais quand j'étais plongé dans le livre j'accrochais trop surtout avec des personnages attachants. On y retrouve Mina, qui veux vivre et non faire la guerre et se construire un futur avec Daniel à ses côtés sauf qu'il doit la trouver et se retrouve impliqué dans la resistance. Il y a aussi Angela qui aide Sebastien a trouver son père dans la zone 14. Un final époustouflant.
Après avoir lu mes tomes précédents j'ai accroché surtout à la fin ou le suspens était au rendez-vous. Quelques chapitres passés à la trappe ou je n'ai pas très bien compris ce qui se passait mais quand j'étais plongé dans le livre j'accrochais trop surtout avec des personnages attachants. On y retrouve Mina, qui veux vivre et non faire la guerre et se construire un futur avec Daniel à ses côtés sauf qu'il doit la trouver et se retrouve impliqué dans la resistance. Il y a aussi Angela qui aide Sebastien a trouver son père dans la zone 14. Un final époustouflant.
June 22, 2013
All in all this was a very nice, conclusive end to the series, perhaps even a little too conclusive for my liking, but still a good end to The Blemished series.
I really liked the characters in this one. They've developed a lot since the first book and have become more and more real to me. Some of the personality traits that annoyed me in the first book have been explained somewhat. For example, it now makes more sense to me why Mina was constantly switching from whimpering little girl to kick ass heroine in The Blemished. It just brings things together nicely.
If you're going to read this book I suggest you read both of the Fractured novellas first. I learnt so much about Elena in The Fractured: Elena that really helped me understand her in this book. I wish I'd read The Fractured: Maggie too, so that I could've had more insight into her life and the reasons behind what she does in this book. Unlike with some in-between novellas these are actually quite relevant to the story and definitely worth reading, although you'd still be able to read this book without having read them.
The story in this was much more fast paced and I really liked that. I loved that it switched from Angela's, Mina's and Daniel's point to view so we knew what was happening in all the different places. Because of this when there was a not-so-interesting part with one of the characters there was sure to be something interesting going on with one of the others.
Oh yeah, one problem I had was the predictability of one part. I knew exactly what would happen, which was quite annoying. It wasn't me knowing what would happen that was worse though, it was all the other characters apparently falling for it. I don't believe for one second that the Mary who was presented in the second book would have fallen for the trick (which was extremely clich��, and really unoriginal).
But still, it was a good book, a good series, definitely worth reading. Plus, these covers would look beautiful on a bookcase. :)
P.S. I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked the characters in this one. They've developed a lot since the first book and have become more and more real to me. Some of the personality traits that annoyed me in the first book have been explained somewhat. For example, it now makes more sense to me why Mina was constantly switching from whimpering little girl to kick ass heroine in The Blemished. It just brings things together nicely.
If you're going to read this book I suggest you read both of the Fractured novellas first. I learnt so much about Elena in The Fractured: Elena that really helped me understand her in this book. I wish I'd read The Fractured: Maggie too, so that I could've had more insight into her life and the reasons behind what she does in this book. Unlike with some in-between novellas these are actually quite relevant to the story and definitely worth reading, although you'd still be able to read this book without having read them.
The story in this was much more fast paced and I really liked that. I loved that it switched from Angela's, Mina's and Daniel's point to view so we knew what was happening in all the different places. Because of this when there was a not-so-interesting part with one of the characters there was sure to be something interesting going on with one of the others.
Oh yeah, one problem I had was the predictability of one part. I knew exactly what would happen, which was quite annoying. It wasn't me knowing what would happen that was worse though, it was all the other characters apparently falling for it. I don't believe for one second that the Mary who was presented in the second book would have fallen for the trick (which was extremely clich��, and really unoriginal).
But still, it was a good book, a good series, definitely worth reading. Plus, these covers would look beautiful on a bookcase. :)
P.S. I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 22, 2013
All in all this was a very nice, conclusive end to the series, perhaps even a little too conclusive for my liking, but still a good end to The Blemished series.
I really liked the characters in this one. They've developed a lot since the first book and have become more and more real to me. Some of the personality traits that annoyed me in the first book have been explained somewhat. For example, it now makes more sense to me why Mina was constantly switching from whimpering little girl to kick ass heroine in The Blemished. It just brings things together nicely.
If you're going to read this book I suggest you read both of the Fractured novellas first. I learnt so much about Elena in The Fractured: Elena that really helped me understand her in this book. I wish I'd read The Fractured: Maggie too, so that I could've had more insight into her life and the reasons behind what she does in this book. Unlike with some in-between novellas these are actually quite relevant to the story and definitely worth reading, although you'd still be able to read this book without having read them.
The story in this was much more fast paced and I really liked that. I loved that it switched from Angela's, Mina's and Daniel's point to view so we knew what was happening in all the different places. Because of this when there was a not-so-interesting part with one of the characters there was sure to be something interesting going on with one of the others.
Oh yeah, one problem I had was the predictability of one part. I knew exactly what would happen, which was quite annoying. It wasn't me knowing what would happen that was worse though, it was all the other characters apparently falling for it. I don't believe for one second that the Mary who was presented in the second book would have fallen for the trick (which was extremely cliché, and really unoriginal).
But still, it was a good book, a good series, definitely worth reading. Plus, these covers would look beautiful on a bookcase. :)
P.S. I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked the characters in this one. They've developed a lot since the first book and have become more and more real to me. Some of the personality traits that annoyed me in the first book have been explained somewhat. For example, it now makes more sense to me why Mina was constantly switching from whimpering little girl to kick ass heroine in The Blemished. It just brings things together nicely.
If you're going to read this book I suggest you read both of the Fractured novellas first. I learnt so much about Elena in The Fractured: Elena that really helped me understand her in this book. I wish I'd read The Fractured: Maggie too, so that I could've had more insight into her life and the reasons behind what she does in this book. Unlike with some in-between novellas these are actually quite relevant to the story and definitely worth reading, although you'd still be able to read this book without having read them.
The story in this was much more fast paced and I really liked that. I loved that it switched from Angela's, Mina's and Daniel's point to view so we knew what was happening in all the different places. Because of this when there was a not-so-interesting part with one of the characters there was sure to be something interesting going on with one of the others.
Oh yeah, one problem I had was the predictability of one part. I knew exactly what would happen, which was quite annoying. It wasn't me knowing what would happen that was worse though, it was all the other characters apparently falling for it. I don't believe for one second that the Mary who was presented in the second book would have fallen for the trick (which was extremely cliché, and really unoriginal).
But still, it was a good book, a good series, definitely worth reading. Plus, these covers would look beautiful on a bookcase. :)
P.S. I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 18, 2013
I got a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I read and loved book 1 and 2 in this series (the Blemished & The Vanished). I lapped them up and even read and devoured the two short story spin offs that were released. I had found a new series I loved and couldn't wait for more so I naturally accepted this one when I was offered the chance to review it.
Unfortunately I have a massive stack of review books so I couldn't read it straight away but I wish I had because it took me a while to get back into the story and remember who everyone was. It's a fairly sizeable cast of characters to remember so I had to get back into the swing of it.
But once I did, it was like being welcomed back among friends, there were odd moments of confusion still, my brain just isn't what it used to be and there are even more people added into the mix but once I got myself focused there wasn't really a problem.
This book is packed full of action, it's pretty much a war book, there is fighting but don't worry the scenes aren't particularly brutal or bloody, it's more the effects of war on the people. The main cast of characters get split up and go in separate directions. The chapters alternate between them as they struggle to stay alive and find each other again. The main narrators are Mina, Daniel and Angie. And I have to admit I liked seeing the different characters and hearing their voices. I think Daniel is still my favourite, their is something so honest in his tone and his emotions really come through his voice.
I liked the unique twists and that Mina and Daniel aren't all loved up, I liked that they had conflict and struggle, it's how they pull through all that stuff that really matters.
I was glad to be back and immersed in such a fresh series and to find that I still loved it.
I would definitely recommend this series but you have to start at book 1 to get the proper effect. So go and check it out!
Unfortunately I have a massive stack of review books so I couldn't read it straight away but I wish I had because it took me a while to get back into the story and remember who everyone was. It's a fairly sizeable cast of characters to remember so I had to get back into the swing of it.
But once I did, it was like being welcomed back among friends, there were odd moments of confusion still, my brain just isn't what it used to be and there are even more people added into the mix but once I got myself focused there wasn't really a problem.
This book is packed full of action, it's pretty much a war book, there is fighting but don't worry the scenes aren't particularly brutal or bloody, it's more the effects of war on the people. The main cast of characters get split up and go in separate directions. The chapters alternate between them as they struggle to stay alive and find each other again. The main narrators are Mina, Daniel and Angie. And I have to admit I liked seeing the different characters and hearing their voices. I think Daniel is still my favourite, their is something so honest in his tone and his emotions really come through his voice.
I liked the unique twists and that Mina and Daniel aren't all loved up, I liked that they had conflict and struggle, it's how they pull through all that stuff that really matters.
I was glad to be back and immersed in such a fresh series and to find that I still loved it.
I would definitely recommend this series but you have to start at book 1 to get the proper effect. So go and check it out!
September 16, 2013
I have to say as soon as I finished book 2, I was SO happy that I had book 3, The Unleashed right here waiting for me. No way I could have handled that wait! But if I had to, it would have been more then worth it!
Book 2 left off with Mina seeing her mother, for the first time in 10 years, and alive. Mina is so angry at her father for keeping her mother away, she is automatically blinded by what her mother truly is. I wanted to smack Mina a few times in this book. She was being so stupid. But her feelings for her long lost mother clouded her judgement. This book was written in a few different view points. Usually it is nice to break i up and get others perspectives but sometimes I didn't want to read about Angela or Daniel. All about Mina!
Everyone grew up so incredibly fast in this series. I suppose they had to, but wow. Book 3 is just mind blowing. When I read the blurb, I was thinking to myself, why is Angela going to Area 14 with Sebastian? It makes sense now, but at first I was like odd? Talking about growing up fast. Angela is faced with so much at her young age, both good and bad. I am very glad she didn't lose herself in this series. Mina however, did. But it wasn't her fault. I love how everyone's focus was to fight obviously, but it was always to help Mina.
I could go on and on about everything I loved. Which is the whole book, but I just have to say, hands down, Best Dystopian series EVER! Do yourself a favor and pick up this book! I cried so much in this last book, it was very emotional and you felt for each of the characters. I don't want to explain too much because I don't want to give away anything. Amazing story, one I' constantly thinking about and one I can read over and over again!!!
Book 2 left off with Mina seeing her mother, for the first time in 10 years, and alive. Mina is so angry at her father for keeping her mother away, she is automatically blinded by what her mother truly is. I wanted to smack Mina a few times in this book. She was being so stupid. But her feelings for her long lost mother clouded her judgement. This book was written in a few different view points. Usually it is nice to break i up and get others perspectives but sometimes I didn't want to read about Angela or Daniel. All about Mina!
Everyone grew up so incredibly fast in this series. I suppose they had to, but wow. Book 3 is just mind blowing. When I read the blurb, I was thinking to myself, why is Angela going to Area 14 with Sebastian? It makes sense now, but at first I was like odd? Talking about growing up fast. Angela is faced with so much at her young age, both good and bad. I am very glad she didn't lose herself in this series. Mina however, did. But it wasn't her fault. I love how everyone's focus was to fight obviously, but it was always to help Mina.
I could go on and on about everything I loved. Which is the whole book, but I just have to say, hands down, Best Dystopian series EVER! Do yourself a favor and pick up this book! I cried so much in this last book, it was very emotional and you felt for each of the characters. I don't want to explain too much because I don't want to give away anything. Amazing story, one I' constantly thinking about and one I can read over and over again!!!
June 17, 2013
Overall I liked the story, and Dalton wrapped up the lose ends. The ending is a little sappy, but the reader has a solid conclusion. The reader also knows the characters will continue to live on.
Of the whole series I believe The Blemished is the best. In The Unleashed I found the drama and conflict/resolution cycle frustrating and predictable. (I am the last person to pick up on clues; I would make a terrible detective.)
What I liked most about the series is Dalton got me thinking.
1) While we do not always understand people, especially our parents, for the most part I believe that parents love their children. As humans we are flawed, and the expression of love is also flawed. Hold onto the good and the love we have for one another.
2) An equal society could never exist. Many have tried, and many have failed. Take Animal Farm for example.
3) Someone or group will always want and take power. Many will not be the best leaders.
4) As part of the power struggle, those in power have to assert it over other people. I do not understand this. It may be because in my heart I believe all people have the potential to be good.
5) The Unleashed is a tale of rebellion and taking back the power. What will it take for me to begin to stand up for injustice?
Love those around. Fight for injustice. Long live freedom!
Many thanks to Sarah Dalton for an Advanced Reader's Copy.
Of the whole series I believe The Blemished is the best. In The Unleashed I found the drama and conflict/resolution cycle frustrating and predictable. (I am the last person to pick up on clues; I would make a terrible detective.)
What I liked most about the series is Dalton got me thinking.
1) While we do not always understand people, especially our parents, for the most part I believe that parents love their children. As humans we are flawed, and the expression of love is also flawed. Hold onto the good and the love we have for one another.
2) An equal society could never exist. Many have tried, and many have failed. Take Animal Farm for example.
3) Someone or group will always want and take power. Many will not be the best leaders.
4) As part of the power struggle, those in power have to assert it over other people. I do not understand this. It may be because in my heart I believe all people have the potential to be good.
5) The Unleashed is a tale of rebellion and taking back the power. What will it take for me to begin to stand up for injustice?
Love those around. Fight for injustice. Long live freedom!
Many thanks to Sarah Dalton for an Advanced Reader's Copy.
September 5, 2013
I got this book from the author, free of cost, in exchange of an honest review from my side!
Firstly I would like to thank Sarah Dalton, author of The Unleashed for giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this fantastic book.
I really loved this epic conclusion to this great dystopian trilogy. Well you guys will be shocked by the end of this story I bet like I got.
Mina's character developed further in this part and it was really a treat to share her journey as she progressed towards the end of the story.
I loved Daniel the most, well I loved him from the very first part but he stole the show in this concluding part.
The emotional whirlwind really is breath-taking and I cried and bawled while I read this story, well some parts are truly heart wrenching.
The side characters played a great role in making this story a huge success and the revelation of the secrets of Mina's mother was really shocking.
The desperate attempt of Mina's father to prove his love is really soul touching and it really spiced up the story.
The suspense till the end was well kept by the author and it drove me nuts in anticipation and I kept guessing till the last. The action packed scenes are great and I really enjoyed this story a lot.
The story is told from the POV of different characters which helped in understanding and relating to the plot a lot better.
All in all a great read and I truly recommend it to ya all!
Firstly I would like to thank Sarah Dalton, author of The Unleashed for giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this fantastic book.
I really loved this epic conclusion to this great dystopian trilogy. Well you guys will be shocked by the end of this story I bet like I got.
Mina's character developed further in this part and it was really a treat to share her journey as she progressed towards the end of the story.
I loved Daniel the most, well I loved him from the very first part but he stole the show in this concluding part.
The emotional whirlwind really is breath-taking and I cried and bawled while I read this story, well some parts are truly heart wrenching.
The side characters played a great role in making this story a huge success and the revelation of the secrets of Mina's mother was really shocking.
The desperate attempt of Mina's father to prove his love is really soul touching and it really spiced up the story.
The suspense till the end was well kept by the author and it drove me nuts in anticipation and I kept guessing till the last. The action packed scenes are great and I really enjoyed this story a lot.
The story is told from the POV of different characters which helped in understanding and relating to the plot a lot better.
All in all a great read and I truly recommend it to ya all!
November 4, 2013
Mina were surprised to find her supposedly-dead mother paying her a visit at the compound. she became angry that her father had lied to her, furthermore, her mother was from the GEM, the organization that wanted to destroy all Blemished. while the other Freaks felt unsure towards Anna, Mina completely adored her elegant mother. when Anna drugged her into leaving the compound with her, Mina was more than happy to comply. in his mission to find Mina, Daniel and the remaining Freaks got involved with the Resistance, who was planning a war against the GEM.
i received free e-books for the series from the author in exchanged for a review. among the 3 books of the series, i found myself enjoying the first book the most for its innocence. third book into the series focused more and more on other individuals whom i was less attracted to. in a way the perspectives was interesting, but none too difficult to imagine. as helpless as Mina was in her situation, she continued to be a likable character. the only part that was less believable was how short her grief for her father's death was after shutting down with shock. at this point, everything felt rushed and less engaging. fortunately the urge of wanting to know how things end pulled me through until the very end. it was pleasant to know that things fell perfectly into place after all the struggles.
my review: here
i received free e-books for the series from the author in exchanged for a review. among the 3 books of the series, i found myself enjoying the first book the most for its innocence. third book into the series focused more and more on other individuals whom i was less attracted to. in a way the perspectives was interesting, but none too difficult to imagine. as helpless as Mina was in her situation, she continued to be a likable character. the only part that was less believable was how short her grief for her father's death was after shutting down with shock. at this point, everything felt rushed and less engaging. fortunately the urge of wanting to know how things end pulled me through until the very end. it was pleasant to know that things fell perfectly into place after all the struggles.
my review: here
October 25, 2014
As minhas estrelinhas baseiam-se quase sempre no gosto que tive em ler o livro. Pode não ser uma grande obra de literatura mas ser muito divertido e ter personagens e histórias que ainda assim nos dizem algo. Mas não é o caso desta conclusão da trilogia Blemished.
Um conceito que até tinha algo para dar ficou muito aquém entregando-se aos clichés e ensinando lições de moral duvidosas até. O adjectivo que mais me ocorreu ao longo da leitura foi "ridículo", o qual por duas vezes foi complementado por um facepalm. O desenvolvimento da história foi muito forçado o que se nota principalmente nas decisões tomadas pelas personagens, ou melhor, pelas não-decisões, não fez sentido nenhum para mim este desenvolvimento.
Acho que o que tiramos de um livro depende sempre de muitos factores, talvez não tenha lido este na melhor altura para o apreciar da maneira que a autora desejaria. Estar a ler ao mesmo tempo 1984 com certeza me fez olhar para o Unleashed com outros olhos, mas enfim, assim é a vida. Lamento muito Sarah Dalton, foi um esforço enorme para mim terminar este livro.
Um conceito que até tinha algo para dar ficou muito aquém entregando-se aos clichés e ensinando lições de moral duvidosas até. O adjectivo que mais me ocorreu ao longo da leitura foi "ridículo", o qual por duas vezes foi complementado por um facepalm. O desenvolvimento da história foi muito forçado o que se nota principalmente nas decisões tomadas pelas personagens, ou melhor, pelas não-decisões, não fez sentido nenhum para mim este desenvolvimento.
Acho que o que tiramos de um livro depende sempre de muitos factores, talvez não tenha lido este na melhor altura para o apreciar da maneira que a autora desejaria. Estar a ler ao mesmo tempo 1984 com certeza me fez olhar para o Unleashed com outros olhos, mas enfim, assim é a vida. Lamento muito Sarah Dalton, foi um esforço enorme para mim terminar este livro.
July 19, 2013
{my thoughts} - This book is the third installment to the Blemished Series. It is wonderfully written and full of emotion. I teared up more times then I can count while reading this book. It tears at your heart in so many ways. It was nice to find out just what the author had in store for each of the characters. I was able to relate to Mina in her struggle to forgive or not forgive her parents and try to move on with her life. However, unlike her situation I have complete resentment for my parents leaving me as a young baby and not putting much effort forth to be a part of my life in the present. I enjoyed the fact that I was able to read from certain characters point of views. It helps to pull more into the story, it helped me to better understand what was taking place. This book is well worth the read and your guaranteed to shed a few tears.
{reason for reading} - I was given a copy of this book by the author in return for an honest review.
{reason for reading} - I was given a copy of this book by the author in return for an honest review.
April 16, 2014
Another good read. It's the final book in the Blemished series.
Also, I highly recommend reading the two Fractered novellas before reading this book. They're good (and quick) reads and will really help explain some of the events/actions in this book.
Although I'm never happy to see a series I enjoy end Dalton did a good job wrapping everything up and leaves the reader with closure. Despite that I for one would be happy to read another book or even just a novella about the characters later on to see more of what happened to them after the war.
Through the book we continue to follow Mina, Daniel, and the others as they ultimately strive to take down the GEM and give people back the choice of how they live. The characters have really grown and developed through this series. Lots of suspense and adventure that keep you reading. I also really liked how this book was written from more than one POV.
Also, I highly recommend reading the two Fractered novellas before reading this book. They're good (and quick) reads and will really help explain some of the events/actions in this book.
Although I'm never happy to see a series I enjoy end Dalton did a good job wrapping everything up and leaves the reader with closure. Despite that I for one would be happy to read another book or even just a novella about the characters later on to see more of what happened to them after the war.
Through the book we continue to follow Mina, Daniel, and the others as they ultimately strive to take down the GEM and give people back the choice of how they live. The characters have really grown and developed through this series. Lots of suspense and adventure that keep you reading. I also really liked how this book was written from more than one POV.
January 27, 2015
I was a bit worried part way through this book that it wasn't going to be as strong as the others, and if I'm honest, it wasn't... mostly because the vantage point changed to other (formerly supporting) characters in order to have the story work as a cohesive whole. The biggest problem with this was the shift from first person narrative to third person when switching between the main and supporting characters - that bugged me.
However, it was great to read an entire series where the whole cast is not white, where a girl/woman is doing what she believes is best and living with the consequences, and where she is generally treated as a person who is capable of knowing her own mind.
Bonus points for including a queer, mixed race couple because the author wanted to, and no big deal was made of it.
However, it was great to read an entire series where the whole cast is not white, where a girl/woman is doing what she believes is best and living with the consequences, and where she is generally treated as a person who is capable of knowing her own mind.
Bonus points for including a queer, mixed race couple because the author wanted to, and no big deal was made of it.
October 5, 2013
Everyone grew up so incredibly fast in this series. I suppose they had to, but wow. Book 3 is just mind blowing. When I read the blurb, I was thinking to myself, why is Angela going to Area 14 with Sebastian? It makes sense now, but at first I was like odd? Talking about growing up fast. Angela is faced with so much at her young age, both good and bad. I am very glad she didn't lose herself in this series. Mina however, did. But it wasn't her fault. I love how everyone's focus was to fight obviously, but it was always to help Mina.
Read full review at Step Into Fiction
Review completed by: Ashley
Read full review at Step Into Fiction
Review completed by: Ashley
December 13, 2013
As much as I wanted to find out how it ended. Was Mum good or bad? After investing the time to read the 1st and 2nd installments, I just couldn't finish it. It became too...STUPID! The author turned Mina into a incompetent, unintelligent boob.
SPOILER
Ok, how many lucid moments does it take to figure something out. Mina gets drugged and kidnapped from the compound. She knows something is wrong; feels it. Having the women that tried to kill her visit the apartment didn't do it. Having the same women tell her Mum in front of her that she though she would have Mina under her control by now didn't do it. I stopped when Elena, the GEM who saved her life and helped her escape tells her flat out "do not trust your Mum" doesn't do it. I gave up.
SPOILER
Ok, how many lucid moments does it take to figure something out. Mina gets drugged and kidnapped from the compound. She knows something is wrong; feels it. Having the women that tried to kill her visit the apartment didn't do it. Having the same women tell her Mum in front of her that she though she would have Mina under her control by now didn't do it. I stopped when Elena, the GEM who saved her life and helped her escape tells her flat out "do not trust your Mum" doesn't do it. I gave up.
August 17, 2016
A fantastic conclusion to this action-packed dystopian story, where war is waged and emotions are high.
I liked the way the chapters were divided so that other voices were heard as well as Mina's, which gave greater depth to this final installment and helped move the story and explain motives.
Secrets are revealed, characters are seen as complex and realistic...nobody is all good or bad, just human. Of course, some are more likeable than others, but the author's skill shines in how each character is portrayed, flaws and all.
A thought-provoking idea, with many issues raised to do with what it is to be human and that perfection is not the answer to happiness.
Brilliantly told.
Highly recommended.
I liked the way the chapters were divided so that other voices were heard as well as Mina's, which gave greater depth to this final installment and helped move the story and explain motives.
Secrets are revealed, characters are seen as complex and realistic...nobody is all good or bad, just human. Of course, some are more likeable than others, but the author's skill shines in how each character is portrayed, flaws and all.
A thought-provoking idea, with many issues raised to do with what it is to be human and that perfection is not the answer to happiness.
Brilliantly told.
Highly recommended.
November 1, 2013
This was a good series, Sarah Dalton seemed to have a well thought out plan of where it was going through out all 3 books. And if she didn't, she managed to not get sucked in to cliches that can be exhausting, even for books that can tend to get easily in to them. I will admit that the 3rd book seemed to all the sudden have to end. Some ideas from the 3rd book could have been throughout the other 2. I can see why they weren't, and it didn't ruin it. Just had some great character development that then out of no where it seemed a little "all done now" at the end. Overall good fun though!
March 17, 2014
This book was a great conclusion to the Blemished trilogy. The action is fast-paced and exciting. This third book splits the writing style between Mina, Daniel and Angela's perspectives.
In a society where everyone is categorized, all will have to come together in order to overthrow the GEM Ministry. While the story is predictable that Mina, the strongest of those with special abilities, well in the end win it all, I like that the author makes that happen naturally and innocently. In this book, Mina struggles with her abilities and learns the difference between using it in hate or in love.
In a society where everyone is categorized, all will have to come together in order to overthrow the GEM Ministry. While the story is predictable that Mina, the strongest of those with special abilities, well in the end win it all, I like that the author makes that happen naturally and innocently. In this book, Mina struggles with her abilities and learns the difference between using it in hate or in love.
August 4, 2013
I received this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review
LOVE this book. My fave of the three. We get to know Mina's mother, how far her father will go to prove his love. This book is full of heart and many old characters return.....Elena is back and she was one of my faves! The story takes place in London and wraps up beautifully and there is an epilogue at the end to further let us the readers know how our characters fared. Thank you for a wonderful series!
LOVE this book. My fave of the three. We get to know Mina's mother, how far her father will go to prove his love. This book is full of heart and many old characters return.....Elena is back and she was one of my faves! The story takes place in London and wraps up beautifully and there is an epilogue at the end to further let us the readers know how our characters fared. Thank you for a wonderful series!
December 16, 2013
Out of the whole Blemished series, I thought this book was the best. It is jam packed full of intense action and there wasn't a boring moment. Mina and her friends found a place in my heart and I was absolutely breathless after finishing this book. An incredible read of war, love, and redemption.
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