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The Nogiku Series #2
Released
Sanaa must deal with her fate.
Left in the desert to recuperate from her injuries, Sanaa Itami paces the floors and contemplates her mistakes. She trusted too easily, and now people she loved are dead, killed at the hands of men coming to assassinate her. Sanaa feels beaten, but life awaits her at home. While her city recovers from the devastating earthquake, negotiations for Sanaa’s future continue. New allies must be made, new friendships brokered, new skills acquired — at all costs.
Life at the top of the chain is complicated and lonely, though. With all her friendships rocky and uncertain, Sanaa must learn to trust others again more than she’s willing. Who is left holding a grudge? And will the new family Sanaa has found with Jiro support or betray her?
Released is the second installment in the Nogiku Series, a saga of post-apocalyptic sci-fi novels set in future Japan.
Left in the desert to recuperate from her injuries, Sanaa Itami paces the floors and contemplates her mistakes. She trusted too easily, and now people she loved are dead, killed at the hands of men coming to assassinate her. Sanaa feels beaten, but life awaits her at home. While her city recovers from the devastating earthquake, negotiations for Sanaa’s future continue. New allies must be made, new friendships brokered, new skills acquired — at all costs.
Life at the top of the chain is complicated and lonely, though. With all her friendships rocky and uncertain, Sanaa must learn to trust others again more than she’s willing. Who is left holding a grudge? And will the new family Sanaa has found with Jiro support or betray her?
Released is the second installment in the Nogiku Series, a saga of post-apocalyptic sci-fi novels set in future Japan.
ebook
First published December 13, 2013
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About the author
S.J. Pajonas
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Stephanie (S. J.) is a writer, knitter, Capricorn, Japanophile, and USA Today Best Selling author. She loves summer, downtempo beats, yoga pants, foxes, owls, dogs, sushi, pasta, and black tea. She lives outside NYC with her husband, two great kids, and her dog who always wants to play. When it comes to her work, she writes about everyday women and uncommon worlds. Find her online at https://www.spajonas.com
Stephanie (S. J.) is a writer, knitter, Capricorn, Japanophile, and USA Today Best Selling author. She loves summer, downtempo beats, yoga pants, foxes, owls, dogs, sushi, pasta, and black tea. She lives outside NYC with her husband, two great kids, and her dog who always wants to play. When it comes to her work, she writes about everyday women and uncommon worlds. Find her online at https://www.spajonas.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
February 21, 2014
I've fallen in love with the series, and I can't wait for the next books!
Originally posted at Sporadic Reads
After reading Removed by SJ Pajonas, I knew I had to continue with the series to find out more about Sanaa and Jiro's journey, so I bought a Kindle-copy of Released.
The story picked up from the ending of Removed. Since the story was fresh off my mind, I didn't have a hard time getting into the story, but if you have read it months before, there are hints dropped within the story to refresh your mind. You won't be lost.
The first few chapters were a bit slow, but they weren't boring. Since I've already gotten to know Sanaa, reading and learning more about her was interesting to me. She's like a dragon. Her temper, the sleeping dragon, but she's also like a delicate flower. To me, she's one of the perfect female main characters. She's kick-ass. She's got a sword!
Jiro and Sanaa's relationship is still perfect. Jiro was still tough as nails, but when it comes to Sanaa, his soft side comes out. He was the willing partner that does what he can to help Sanaa prepare herself before finally leaving to go to their new planet, Yusei. Their relationship developed into a really good partnership, and at the same time, the readers will feel the love emanating between them. A lot of swoon-worthy moments.
Sanaa faced a few conflicts from unexpected people, but she also gained new ones that she can trust. A lot of side characters were introduced, like Kentaro. He was a a really good addition to the story, and I like the fact that he's sort of complicated. Sanaa learned a lot of things the hard way, but they only made her stronger and capable of the tasks ahead of her.
The plot of this installment was mainly their preparation and journey towards Yusei, but the elements of the world that were already tackled in Removed were still there. The author really took time to make the readers feel like their right there, smack in the middle of a Japanese-dominated world, Nishikyo. The descriptions of the food they're eating will make you want to go out and eat Japanese food! You will definitely enjoy this part of the book. It was like being immersed in all things Japanese. Kawaii!
The ending wasn't really a huge cliffhanger, but it will make you want to get your hands on the next book! I honestly cannot wait to find out more about Yusei, what it looks like, if there are aliens and such. I mean, it's a different planet! There might be aliens! Right?
Nogiku Series is definitely one of my favorites right now. I love how Sanaa has grown into a formidable female lead. Without giving out a lot of info, her skills training definitely gives her an edge. This book will definitely leave you wanting to continue on with the series. And as per SJ Pajonas, there will be two novelas included, and another two books to complete the series. I can't wait!
Originally posted at Sporadic Reads
After reading Removed by SJ Pajonas, I knew I had to continue with the series to find out more about Sanaa and Jiro's journey, so I bought a Kindle-copy of Released.
I can't see Jiro's face and know he still loves me or regrets ever having met me because Sakai has sent me away. Mark Sakai, you are a dead man.
The story picked up from the ending of Removed. Since the story was fresh off my mind, I didn't have a hard time getting into the story, but if you have read it months before, there are hints dropped within the story to refresh your mind. You won't be lost.
The first few chapters were a bit slow, but they weren't boring. Since I've already gotten to know Sanaa, reading and learning more about her was interesting to me. She's like a dragon. Her temper, the sleeping dragon, but she's also like a delicate flower. To me, she's one of the perfect female main characters. She's kick-ass. She's got a sword!
Jiro and Sanaa's relationship is still perfect. Jiro was still tough as nails, but when it comes to Sanaa, his soft side comes out. He was the willing partner that does what he can to help Sanaa prepare herself before finally leaving to go to their new planet, Yusei. Their relationship developed into a really good partnership, and at the same time, the readers will feel the love emanating between them. A lot of swoon-worthy moments.
Sanaa faced a few conflicts from unexpected people, but she also gained new ones that she can trust. A lot of side characters were introduced, like Kentaro. He was a a really good addition to the story, and I like the fact that he's sort of complicated. Sanaa learned a lot of things the hard way, but they only made her stronger and capable of the tasks ahead of her.
The plot of this installment was mainly their preparation and journey towards Yusei, but the elements of the world that were already tackled in Removed were still there. The author really took time to make the readers feel like their right there, smack in the middle of a Japanese-dominated world, Nishikyo. The descriptions of the food they're eating will make you want to go out and eat Japanese food! You will definitely enjoy this part of the book. It was like being immersed in all things Japanese. Kawaii!
The ending wasn't really a huge cliffhanger, but it will make you want to get your hands on the next book! I honestly cannot wait to find out more about Yusei, what it looks like, if there are aliens and such. I mean, it's a different planet! There might be aliens! Right?
Nogiku Series is definitely one of my favorites right now. I love how Sanaa has grown into a formidable female lead. Without giving out a lot of info, her skills training definitely gives her an edge. This book will definitely leave you wanting to continue on with the series. And as per SJ Pajonas, there will be two novelas included, and another two books to complete the series. I can't wait!
December 17, 2019
Second part of the adventure and I keep loving it !
You can't say the rhythm is hurried and fast paced, but I'm totally ok with it and at the end of the book, there's a huge cliffhanger : what's going to happen next ! Can't wait to read it - already have it ^^
You can't say the rhythm is hurried and fast paced, but I'm totally ok with it and at the end of the book, there's a huge cliffhanger : what's going to happen next ! Can't wait to read it - already have it ^^
December 21, 2013
Another great read from S. J. Pajonas! I was a reader of the early drafts of this book and received an ARC from the author. Released picks up right where Removed left off and takes the reader on an emotional rollercoaster ride to another breathtaking cliffhanger. Pajonas's superb world building gives this tale of political intrigue, romance, and action an incredible backdrop as the reader is pulled deeper into the world of Sanaa and her circle of family & friends.
As preparation for the colonization of Yūsei continues, Sanaa's advisors attempt to gather political support for her leadership on the new planet. Meanwhile, Sanaa digs deeper into her past while trying to adjust to life after the events at the end of Removed. She continues her training and begins learning new skills from an unexpected teacher. Jiro and Sanaa are faced with difficult choices as Sanaa begins to realize the full implications of her heritage.
I enjoyed this book immensely. I read it as slowly as I possibly could because I didn't want it to end. I adore these characters, this world, and this story.
Fangirl note: I still have a massive crush on Mark Sakai (HIIII MARK! CALL ME IF IT DOESN'T WORK OUT!) but it may soon be eclipsed by my Kentaro crush.
As preparation for the colonization of Yūsei continues, Sanaa's advisors attempt to gather political support for her leadership on the new planet. Meanwhile, Sanaa digs deeper into her past while trying to adjust to life after the events at the end of Removed. She continues her training and begins learning new skills from an unexpected teacher. Jiro and Sanaa are faced with difficult choices as Sanaa begins to realize the full implications of her heritage.
I enjoyed this book immensely. I read it as slowly as I possibly could because I didn't want it to end. I adore these characters, this world, and this story.
Fangirl note: I still have a massive crush on Mark Sakai (HIIII MARK! CALL ME IF IT DOESN'T WORK OUT!) but it may soon be eclipsed by my Kentaro crush.
December 18, 2013
I read the first book of this series, Removed, as part of a read-it-review-it for a book club. Removed was so good, I purchased Released as soon as I was able. You never know what you will get with the later books in a series. Rest assured, you get a whole bunch of awesomeness with this book. It was everything I wanted and then some. I absolutely loved it. The story and characters are simply the best I have read in a long time. The writing is so well done you would never know it is a self published book. According to the author's website, there are two more books in the series set to come out 4 o 6 months after the book before it. Removed came out around Dec 15, so I estimate book 3 to be available around April - June. I hate to wish my life away, but I really cannot wait until I get the next two books. This truly is a must read series.
April 2, 2015
This review and many more can be found on my blog: Feed Your Fiction Addiction
Released is the second book in Pajonas’s unique dystopian Nojiku series. I’ve been loving this series, especially because it’s based on Japanese culture, which I’ve found incredibly interesting. I was happy to see that this second book lives up to the first!
This book picks up right where Removed left off – Sanaa has been left alone out in a house in the desert while Sakai attempts to eliminate the threats to her safety. While this book didn’t have quite as much action as the first, I felt a much greater connection to Sanaa than I did in the first book, so the two books together kind of gave me the best of both worlds. Let me jump straight into my review to explain why …
What I loved:
Isolation.
This book really focused on Sanaa’s sense of isolation. At the beginning of the book, she is left completely and utterly alone – basically in solitary confinement. Sakai has promised that he will come for her in a month, but when that month goes by and she’s still alone with no contact with anyone, she starts to fear that something has happened and she won’t make it out of her isolation alive. She loses hope (as well as her physical strength from lack of food and exercise). This sets the stage for the rest of the book – where Sanaa is surrounded by people, but still left with a sense of isolation. Jiro is working all of the time, and Sanaa cannot leave her building without an escort. But Sanaa presents a danger to those around her – anyone she loves can be a target for her enemies. This combined with the fact that Sanaa is now going to become the empress (so people feel differently about her) makes people keep their distance from her. I will admit that there were times when I didn’t quite understand how all of Sanaa’s friends and family could abandon her (and I wondered why Jiro had to do all of the work while Sanaa sat home), but the result of this isolation that Sanaa felt was that I connected with Sanaa a lot more than I did in the first book.
Connection with Sanaa.
In the first book, I had a hard time connecting to Sanaa emotionally, but in this second book, I felt her pain, especially toward the end of the book when things really exploded between her and Jiro’s mother (who has avoided Sanaa for months). I could see how some people might be upset that Sanaa isn’t the strong heroine we want her to be in this second book, but I actually related to her more in this book because she responds much the way I could see myself reacting in her situation. She doesn’t want to cause more problems, especially with Jiro’s mother, so she stays silent about the pain she’s going through. She bottles it up for so long that it eventually explodes!
Kentaro. Kentaro is a new character who is introduced in this book who becomes an integral part of the series. At first I was nervous that Kentaro’s introduction was going to be the start of a love triangle, so I was pleased that this was not the case (there were tiny hints of a love triangle – but very small hints). Instead, Kentaro quickly became a character that I loved – and that the characters in the book grew to love and depend on as well!
The ending.
The ending of this book had me very eager to read the next book. In fact, I was so eager to read it that I jumped straight into book three (and read it in a day)!!
The negatives:
Not as much action.
This book doesn’t have nearly as much action as the first (or third) book. It’s really all about Sanaa’s internal struggles. For the most part, I didn’t mind that, but I did feel like perhaps Sanaa’s emotional struggles and growth took a bit longer than it needed to. I especially started to get frustrated when Sanaa fretted, for the umpteenth time, over whether or not it was fair to Jiro to expect him to be with her without being able to marry her. I kind of wished that some of the emotional story had happened a little more quickly, but I do understand that Pajonas wanted to make everything build until it got to a bursting point for Sanaa and was completely unbearable. (And book three totally made up for the lack of action in this book – everything is turned completely upside down in the third book!)
Released explored the pain and isolation of leadership and gave us a much deeper insight into Sanaa’s personality. I really appreciated this insight! The ending left me desperate for the next book in the series, so I jumped straight into book three – watch for my review of that one, coming soon! I give this book 4/5 stars.
***Disclosure: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
Released is the second book in Pajonas’s unique dystopian Nojiku series. I’ve been loving this series, especially because it’s based on Japanese culture, which I’ve found incredibly interesting. I was happy to see that this second book lives up to the first!
This book picks up right where Removed left off – Sanaa has been left alone out in a house in the desert while Sakai attempts to eliminate the threats to her safety. While this book didn’t have quite as much action as the first, I felt a much greater connection to Sanaa than I did in the first book, so the two books together kind of gave me the best of both worlds. Let me jump straight into my review to explain why …
What I loved:
Isolation.
This book really focused on Sanaa’s sense of isolation. At the beginning of the book, she is left completely and utterly alone – basically in solitary confinement. Sakai has promised that he will come for her in a month, but when that month goes by and she’s still alone with no contact with anyone, she starts to fear that something has happened and she won’t make it out of her isolation alive. She loses hope (as well as her physical strength from lack of food and exercise). This sets the stage for the rest of the book – where Sanaa is surrounded by people, but still left with a sense of isolation. Jiro is working all of the time, and Sanaa cannot leave her building without an escort. But Sanaa presents a danger to those around her – anyone she loves can be a target for her enemies. This combined with the fact that Sanaa is now going to become the empress (so people feel differently about her) makes people keep their distance from her. I will admit that there were times when I didn’t quite understand how all of Sanaa’s friends and family could abandon her (and I wondered why Jiro had to do all of the work while Sanaa sat home), but the result of this isolation that Sanaa felt was that I connected with Sanaa a lot more than I did in the first book.
Connection with Sanaa.
In the first book, I had a hard time connecting to Sanaa emotionally, but in this second book, I felt her pain, especially toward the end of the book when things really exploded between her and Jiro’s mother (who has avoided Sanaa for months). I could see how some people might be upset that Sanaa isn’t the strong heroine we want her to be in this second book, but I actually related to her more in this book because she responds much the way I could see myself reacting in her situation. She doesn’t want to cause more problems, especially with Jiro’s mother, so she stays silent about the pain she’s going through. She bottles it up for so long that it eventually explodes!
Kentaro. Kentaro is a new character who is introduced in this book who becomes an integral part of the series. At first I was nervous that Kentaro’s introduction was going to be the start of a love triangle, so I was pleased that this was not the case (there were tiny hints of a love triangle – but very small hints). Instead, Kentaro quickly became a character that I loved – and that the characters in the book grew to love and depend on as well!
The ending.
The ending of this book had me very eager to read the next book. In fact, I was so eager to read it that I jumped straight into book three (and read it in a day)!!
The negatives:
Not as much action.
This book doesn’t have nearly as much action as the first (or third) book. It’s really all about Sanaa’s internal struggles. For the most part, I didn’t mind that, but I did feel like perhaps Sanaa’s emotional struggles and growth took a bit longer than it needed to. I especially started to get frustrated when Sanaa fretted, for the umpteenth time, over whether or not it was fair to Jiro to expect him to be with her without being able to marry her. I kind of wished that some of the emotional story had happened a little more quickly, but I do understand that Pajonas wanted to make everything build until it got to a bursting point for Sanaa and was completely unbearable. (And book three totally made up for the lack of action in this book – everything is turned completely upside down in the third book!)
Released explored the pain and isolation of leadership and gave us a much deeper insight into Sanaa’s personality. I really appreciated this insight! The ending left me desperate for the next book in the series, so I jumped straight into book three – watch for my review of that one, coming soon! I give this book 4/5 stars.
***Disclosure: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
August 16, 2022
Re-read review:
I loved re-reading this. It's been a long time since I first read this series and re-reading this series all these years later is such a great experience. It's both nostalgic and I've forgotten so much it still feels fresh at times as well. I love the romance between Sanaa and Jiro. Sanaa goes through some hard times in this book, but also some good things and I enjoyed seeing her develop in this book. And that ending still got me, even with knowing what happens next.
Original review:
I got a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I fell completely in love with Removed, the first book in this series and as I had gotten an ARC for Released I decided to start this one right after Removed. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I think I might love Released even more then I did Removed. I was completely engrossed into the story and just wanted to keep reading. This is one of those few books that I kept reading late into the night and then being surprised it was 1:30 when I finished. I just couldn't put the book down before I had finished it. And that ending, I want book 3 like now!
Released picks up shortly after the ending of Removed, I still remembered everything that happened in Removed, but enough reminders are dropped for readers who read Removed longer ago. The first chapters where a bit slow, but that didn't take long and after that I couldn't put it down. I loved Released! It is such a great book and I fell even more in love with this series, the story and the characters.
There are some new characters introduced in this book and I especially came to like Kentaro, he turned my expectation from when he was first introduced upside down and I really liked him at the end of the book. I liked seeing the characters grow and develop and some quite big and important events take place in this book. Sanaa and Jiro are still so perfect together and I loved seeing their relationship grow and develop! Really they are one of the most amazing couples I have come across in a book. They are so perfect for each other and I just loved reading how they interacted with each other. There is also much to learn about some side characters. Even though I call them side characters, most side characters play a important role and you really get to know them well. All the characters in this book really come alive.
Concerning the world building, this book builds upon the world building already done in Removed. The basis is already there and now there is still so much more to learn. Also the science fiction aspect plays a more important part in this book, and even though we don't learn much about Yusei, I suspect the next book will focus more on that. I had guessed roughly where this book would end, I was mostly right, but damn that ending! It's a cliffhanger, but it's also a nice ending, and I really really want the next book now!
To conclude: Released was amazing, I fell even more in love with this series and I couldn't put this book down. I liked where the story went and I liked meeting the new characters and getting to know others better. There is also some added world building, but not so much as in the first book. The ending left me wanting more and the wait for the next book is going to feel really long, because I want book 3 now!
I loved re-reading this. It's been a long time since I first read this series and re-reading this series all these years later is such a great experience. It's both nostalgic and I've forgotten so much it still feels fresh at times as well. I love the romance between Sanaa and Jiro. Sanaa goes through some hard times in this book, but also some good things and I enjoyed seeing her develop in this book. And that ending still got me, even with knowing what happens next.
Original review:
I got a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I fell completely in love with Removed, the first book in this series and as I had gotten an ARC for Released I decided to start this one right after Removed. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I think I might love Released even more then I did Removed. I was completely engrossed into the story and just wanted to keep reading. This is one of those few books that I kept reading late into the night and then being surprised it was 1:30 when I finished. I just couldn't put the book down before I had finished it. And that ending, I want book 3 like now!
Released picks up shortly after the ending of Removed, I still remembered everything that happened in Removed, but enough reminders are dropped for readers who read Removed longer ago. The first chapters where a bit slow, but that didn't take long and after that I couldn't put it down. I loved Released! It is such a great book and I fell even more in love with this series, the story and the characters.
There are some new characters introduced in this book and I especially came to like Kentaro, he turned my expectation from when he was first introduced upside down and I really liked him at the end of the book. I liked seeing the characters grow and develop and some quite big and important events take place in this book. Sanaa and Jiro are still so perfect together and I loved seeing their relationship grow and develop! Really they are one of the most amazing couples I have come across in a book. They are so perfect for each other and I just loved reading how they interacted with each other. There is also much to learn about some side characters. Even though I call them side characters, most side characters play a important role and you really get to know them well. All the characters in this book really come alive.
Concerning the world building, this book builds upon the world building already done in Removed. The basis is already there and now there is still so much more to learn. Also the science fiction aspect plays a more important part in this book, and even though we don't learn much about Yusei, I suspect the next book will focus more on that. I had guessed roughly where this book would end, I was mostly right, but damn that ending! It's a cliffhanger, but it's also a nice ending, and I really really want the next book now!
To conclude: Released was amazing, I fell even more in love with this series and I couldn't put this book down. I liked where the story went and I liked meeting the new characters and getting to know others better. There is also some added world building, but not so much as in the first book. The ending left me wanting more and the wait for the next book is going to feel really long, because I want book 3 now!
December 30, 2013
I received this book from the author in return for an honest review.
From the second I saw its cover of origami paper cranes, I couldn't wait to dive into it. It just made me instantly curious as to where this imagery would pop up in the book. You see I have always been the sort of person drawn in by really neat looking book covers. The neater the cover, the more likely for me to have picked it up to at least look at it.The same was true of the previous book 'Removed.'
Now onto the review, the first thing that you have to know is that this book focuses more about what is going on in the main character Sanaa's head as she confronts further trials and tribulations due to her station in life instead of setting the stage like 'Removed' did. I loved this change for it made her easier to relate to. In this book we see just how much she struggles with frustration and loneliness, first alone in the desert and then being surrounded people that care about her but for whatever reason withdraw from spending time her. Suffice to say, the love of her life, Jiro, is the one that stays with her no matter what, but even he can't spend as much time with her as he wishes to.
The further you get into the book, we get to see her grow more into the leader that she is supposed to be, confident and in control even though many times she feels like she's not. You tend to see it more and more as there are further attempts on her life as well as the people she cares for. She is frightened by the attempts but does not stupidly lose her head like many other literary heroines have in the past.
I think that my favorite scene would have to be the informal wedding. It is just too sweetly adorable. Without giving too much away, when you get to that part you'll know what I mean.
The only real thing that I have to nit-pick is the sometimes jarring mixture of Japanese and English in everyday conversation in this book as well as the previous one. Although this book was written in English, the population of Nishikyō is 70% Japanese, therefore the primary spoken language would most likely be Japanese and not English. When reading any book set in countries where English is not the first language, I make the assumption that the characters are speaking in the native tongue of the region and that the words have been translated into English for my benefit. So to have the dialogue be interspersed with both, beyond cultural terms or words that could not otherwise be translated over like 'chuhai' or 'san-san-kudo', tend to unintentially interrupt the story. However, this is only a minor flaw from an overall great novel.
I loved the story and am eagerly awaiting the next book.
From the second I saw its cover of origami paper cranes, I couldn't wait to dive into it. It just made me instantly curious as to where this imagery would pop up in the book. You see I have always been the sort of person drawn in by really neat looking book covers. The neater the cover, the more likely for me to have picked it up to at least look at it.The same was true of the previous book 'Removed.'
Now onto the review, the first thing that you have to know is that this book focuses more about what is going on in the main character Sanaa's head as she confronts further trials and tribulations due to her station in life instead of setting the stage like 'Removed' did. I loved this change for it made her easier to relate to. In this book we see just how much she struggles with frustration and loneliness, first alone in the desert and then being surrounded people that care about her but for whatever reason withdraw from spending time her. Suffice to say, the love of her life, Jiro, is the one that stays with her no matter what, but even he can't spend as much time with her as he wishes to.
The further you get into the book, we get to see her grow more into the leader that she is supposed to be, confident and in control even though many times she feels like she's not. You tend to see it more and more as there are further attempts on her life as well as the people she cares for. She is frightened by the attempts but does not stupidly lose her head like many other literary heroines have in the past.
I think that my favorite scene would have to be the informal wedding. It is just too sweetly adorable. Without giving too much away, when you get to that part you'll know what I mean.
The only real thing that I have to nit-pick is the sometimes jarring mixture of Japanese and English in everyday conversation in this book as well as the previous one. Although this book was written in English, the population of Nishikyō is 70% Japanese, therefore the primary spoken language would most likely be Japanese and not English. When reading any book set in countries where English is not the first language, I make the assumption that the characters are speaking in the native tongue of the region and that the words have been translated into English for my benefit. So to have the dialogue be interspersed with both, beyond cultural terms or words that could not otherwise be translated over like 'chuhai' or 'san-san-kudo', tend to unintentially interrupt the story. However, this is only a minor flaw from an overall great novel.
I loved the story and am eagerly awaiting the next book.
July 28, 2014
4.5 stars.
*I’d like to thank the author for providing me an ARC, in exchange for my honest review.*
With the way Removed ended with Sanaa all by herself in that house, I couldn’t get back to her fast enough. I wanted to know what was next for her, and how she’d get out of the situation she was in. I wanted answers, and I wanted to know what would be the consequences of everything that happened in the first book. Lucky for me, I got answers, along with character growth, as well as relationship developments
Sanaa grows a lot in this book. She’s really changed from how she was in the beginning of the series. She’s coming into her role very well, and I can’t wait to see what else will happen to her. I love how Sanaa still says exactly how she feels to Jiro. I love the fact that she tries her best to not let the awful things that have happened to her get her down. Sanaa is a wonderful character to follow, and I think having her narrate the whole story is just perfect.
Then, there’s Jiro. Oh, how I love Jiro!!! Even when it doesn’t seem like it, he’s always looking out for Sanaa. He’s always doing little things, even when it appears he isn’t. The relationship between Sanaa and Jiro grows significantly throughout this book, and I’m really excited to see what will become of them in future books. I love the two of them together, and think that they are a really amazing couple.
The side characters in this book were really interesting. I don’t like Jiro’s mother half as much as I did in book one. Come to think of it, I don’t really like any of the characters that we met in book one, with the exception of Sanaa’s aunts who didn’t even really feature in the story. I did really like Kentaro, though. I thought that he was going to be totally different than what he was, and I was happy to be wrong.
The plot of this story was interesting. It was about Sanaa trying to rally up alliances before the move to Yusei. There were some action scenes, and Sanaa had to be really careful in this book because there were people after her and her friends. However, this book was also about Jiro and Sanaa’s relationship. It changes significantly by the end of this book, for the better I think.
Overall, I really liked this book. It was definitely a great follow-up to Removed. I loved that Jiro and Sanaa still talked things out, and when they didn’t, I never got annoyed with Sanaa because you feel everything she does. You understand the motives for her actions. I loved the action scenes too, and not all of the mysteries have been solved yet. On the contrary, this book ended with even more questions, and I really wish I had book three right now.
*I’d like to thank the author for providing me an ARC, in exchange for my honest review.*
With the way Removed ended with Sanaa all by herself in that house, I couldn’t get back to her fast enough. I wanted to know what was next for her, and how she’d get out of the situation she was in. I wanted answers, and I wanted to know what would be the consequences of everything that happened in the first book. Lucky for me, I got answers, along with character growth, as well as relationship developments
Sanaa grows a lot in this book. She’s really changed from how she was in the beginning of the series. She’s coming into her role very well, and I can’t wait to see what else will happen to her. I love how Sanaa still says exactly how she feels to Jiro. I love the fact that she tries her best to not let the awful things that have happened to her get her down. Sanaa is a wonderful character to follow, and I think having her narrate the whole story is just perfect.
Then, there’s Jiro. Oh, how I love Jiro!!! Even when it doesn’t seem like it, he’s always looking out for Sanaa. He’s always doing little things, even when it appears he isn’t. The relationship between Sanaa and Jiro grows significantly throughout this book, and I’m really excited to see what will become of them in future books. I love the two of them together, and think that they are a really amazing couple.
The side characters in this book were really interesting. I don’t like Jiro’s mother half as much as I did in book one. Come to think of it, I don’t really like any of the characters that we met in book one, with the exception of Sanaa’s aunts who didn’t even really feature in the story. I did really like Kentaro, though. I thought that he was going to be totally different than what he was, and I was happy to be wrong.
The plot of this story was interesting. It was about Sanaa trying to rally up alliances before the move to Yusei. There were some action scenes, and Sanaa had to be really careful in this book because there were people after her and her friends. However, this book was also about Jiro and Sanaa’s relationship. It changes significantly by the end of this book, for the better I think.
Overall, I really liked this book. It was definitely a great follow-up to Removed. I loved that Jiro and Sanaa still talked things out, and when they didn’t, I never got annoyed with Sanaa because you feel everything she does. You understand the motives for her actions. I loved the action scenes too, and not all of the mysteries have been solved yet. On the contrary, this book ended with even more questions, and I really wish I had book three right now.
December 4, 2013
If there is one thing I love and admire about S.J. Pajonas, it's her ability to paint the best picture possible of a strong, independent woman.
I received an ARC of Released in exchange for an honest review. Having read and loved Removed, I was bouncing off the walls at a chance to read Released before many others :-)
In Removed, Pajonas left us salivating to see what was going to happen with Sanaa. We quickly find out as she dives right in on Book 2. This book was full of action and adventure ... it read like a science fiction cat and mouse chase. The author's descriptions left me living in the moment, playing out scene by scene in my head. This book definitely added more to the science fiction element than Removed, but just as in Removed, it was easy to follow. Pajonas is able to sneak the science in and make it understandable - even for those of us that received a final grade of D in Science :-)
Let us not forget that this is not only Science Fiction, but a New Adult Romance. Jiro and Sanaa's relationship grows and the sex between them is intense. I'd be hard pressed to find a reader that didn't fall in love with Jiro.
Whether you read this book for the Sci-Fi or the romance, I urge you to pick it up and read it for the strong woman that Sanaa is. She shows incredible strength when it is needed, but isn't afraid to let her guard down with Jiro (mostly). She is a woman who knows what she wants. I think every woman who reads this book can see themselves in Sanaa at some point in the novel.
When I started Released, I thought I would be a bigger fan of Removed. I tend to prefer Book 1 of most series. But by the end of this book, Released is easily my favorite in the series so far. I'm not giving anything away, but the ending of this book will leave you blown away and biting your nails until Book 3 is released.
I received an ARC of Released in exchange for an honest review. Having read and loved Removed, I was bouncing off the walls at a chance to read Released before many others :-)
In Removed, Pajonas left us salivating to see what was going to happen with Sanaa. We quickly find out as she dives right in on Book 2. This book was full of action and adventure ... it read like a science fiction cat and mouse chase. The author's descriptions left me living in the moment, playing out scene by scene in my head. This book definitely added more to the science fiction element than Removed, but just as in Removed, it was easy to follow. Pajonas is able to sneak the science in and make it understandable - even for those of us that received a final grade of D in Science :-)
Let us not forget that this is not only Science Fiction, but a New Adult Romance. Jiro and Sanaa's relationship grows and the sex between them is intense. I'd be hard pressed to find a reader that didn't fall in love with Jiro.
Whether you read this book for the Sci-Fi or the romance, I urge you to pick it up and read it for the strong woman that Sanaa is. She shows incredible strength when it is needed, but isn't afraid to let her guard down with Jiro (mostly). She is a woman who knows what she wants. I think every woman who reads this book can see themselves in Sanaa at some point in the novel.
When I started Released, I thought I would be a bigger fan of Removed. I tend to prefer Book 1 of most series. But by the end of this book, Released is easily my favorite in the series so far. I'm not giving anything away, but the ending of this book will leave you blown away and biting your nails until Book 3 is released.
January 1, 2015
Immediately after finishing Removed, I bought Book Two of the Nogiku series, Released. I should have waited until a decent hour in the morning, I should have gone right to sleep - but I was so immersed in the story, I had to find out how the next book started. I had to know what happened to Sanaa and everyone else!
Released continues Sanaa and Jiro's journey of love and discovery. Their relationship has grown a lot in this book and it's a lot of fun to be a part of that growth. To listen in on their private conversations, to spar with them in the dōjo, to join them on their dates - it makes for fun reading and dreaming!
We also see the continued efforts of gaining supporters for the colonization and Sanaa's eventual rule. A new friend (though we don't know that at first) is introduced and I really enjoyed watching Kentaro blossom from a cold, rude idiot boy to a fun, open and trustworthy man. It will be interesting to see how the clan leaders decide to support, or not support, Sanaa.
Something that really struck me was the lack of support Sanaa received from the Sakai family members after she came back from the desert. Her relationship with Jiro's mother has cooled quite a bit and she is distanced from everyone else, except Jiro. To keep Sanaa safe, she is ordered to stay inside the apartment building, which in turn increases her loneliness. I was relieved, like crying and awwwing relieved, when Sanaa finally said something to Jiro. He stood up to his mother, his family and took charge - it was quite the experience!
I really cannot wait to return to their story, to continue the journey and find out how it all ends. You can be sure that when the next installment of the Nogiku series is released, I'll be one of the first in line to get my copy!
Released continues Sanaa and Jiro's journey of love and discovery. Their relationship has grown a lot in this book and it's a lot of fun to be a part of that growth. To listen in on their private conversations, to spar with them in the dōjo, to join them on their dates - it makes for fun reading and dreaming!
We also see the continued efforts of gaining supporters for the colonization and Sanaa's eventual rule. A new friend (though we don't know that at first) is introduced and I really enjoyed watching Kentaro blossom from a cold, rude idiot boy to a fun, open and trustworthy man. It will be interesting to see how the clan leaders decide to support, or not support, Sanaa.
Something that really struck me was the lack of support Sanaa received from the Sakai family members after she came back from the desert. Her relationship with Jiro's mother has cooled quite a bit and she is distanced from everyone else, except Jiro. To keep Sanaa safe, she is ordered to stay inside the apartment building, which in turn increases her loneliness. I was relieved, like crying and awwwing relieved, when Sanaa finally said something to Jiro. He stood up to his mother, his family and took charge - it was quite the experience!
I really cannot wait to return to their story, to continue the journey and find out how it all ends. You can be sure that when the next installment of the Nogiku series is released, I'll be one of the first in line to get my copy!
December 16, 2013
I was fortunate to be part of the early reading process of RELEASED by S.J. Pajonas. The second installment of the Nogiku Series brings more depth to the original characters, answers some of the questions posed in the first book, and introduces some fantastic new characters. The themes of dynasty, love, and political revenge are further explored as Sanaa struggles to find balance between her family and the obligations that accompany her new station within the government.
RELEASED picks up where REMOVED left off, with Sanaa stuck in a desert location by herself. Of course, she eventually is reunited with her loved ones despite the danger her very existence presents to all of them. The same cast of characters from the first book is all there: Mark Sakai, Jiro, Miko, and Helena, along with some new faces. I particularly like the addition of Kentaro, the son of a rival clan head.
Unlike REMOVED, Sanaa spends much of her time alone and in her head. We get to experience her frustration and despair as one by one, each member of her close circle retreat from her. Along the way, Pajonas gives us glimpses into traditional Japanese culture, including a wedding and a lovers’ holiday.
Where the first book excels in its descriptions of the world where Sanaa lives, RELEASED explores her raw emotions as she grows into her role as a powerful leader. I love this strong female character, who outwardly displays her conviction despite the withering abandonment she feels inside. The final few chapters are action packed, and the finale is so spectacular, it will leave you with a spinning head. I very much look forward to the continuation of this series!
RELEASED picks up where REMOVED left off, with Sanaa stuck in a desert location by herself. Of course, she eventually is reunited with her loved ones despite the danger her very existence presents to all of them. The same cast of characters from the first book is all there: Mark Sakai, Jiro, Miko, and Helena, along with some new faces. I particularly like the addition of Kentaro, the son of a rival clan head.
Unlike REMOVED, Sanaa spends much of her time alone and in her head. We get to experience her frustration and despair as one by one, each member of her close circle retreat from her. Along the way, Pajonas gives us glimpses into traditional Japanese culture, including a wedding and a lovers’ holiday.
Where the first book excels in its descriptions of the world where Sanaa lives, RELEASED explores her raw emotions as she grows into her role as a powerful leader. I love this strong female character, who outwardly displays her conviction despite the withering abandonment she feels inside. The final few chapters are action packed, and the finale is so spectacular, it will leave you with a spinning head. I very much look forward to the continuation of this series!
February 25, 2018
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy of Released from the author, SJ Pajonas in exchange for a review. After reading her first book, Removed, in the Nogiku series, I couldn’t wait to get back to Sanaa’s world. This was a fantastic way to continue the series! In the first book, Sanaa discovers who she really is and in this 2nd book, she is adjusting to her role as Empress while preparing to leave Earth for a new home/society where she will lead her people.
The second books picks up right where the first book ends. I have read a version of this 2nd book already, and knowing the cliffhanger SJ was going to leave us on, I dragged my heels in finishing the final edit of Released. I didn’t know how long I would have to wait until the 3rd book in the series comes out. Damn it SJ! Write faster!
Things I especially enjoy about the series – relatable heroine, romance, some ass-kicking, some heartache, continued character development, richly developed post apocalyptic society steeped in Japanese culture, and yes, that dreaded cliffhanger. Surprising to me was how emotional I felt as Sanaa dealt with her growing loneliness and isolation as she outwardly projected a tough girl exterior. That’s what I love about reading a series – you get to see these characters grow in their roles as well as meet new characters to love/hate/or both.
Can’t wait to find out what happens next in the series! Thanks SJ!
The second books picks up right where the first book ends. I have read a version of this 2nd book already, and knowing the cliffhanger SJ was going to leave us on, I dragged my heels in finishing the final edit of Released. I didn’t know how long I would have to wait until the 3rd book in the series comes out. Damn it SJ! Write faster!
Things I especially enjoy about the series – relatable heroine, romance, some ass-kicking, some heartache, continued character development, richly developed post apocalyptic society steeped in Japanese culture, and yes, that dreaded cliffhanger. Surprising to me was how emotional I felt as Sanaa dealt with her growing loneliness and isolation as she outwardly projected a tough girl exterior. That’s what I love about reading a series – you get to see these characters grow in their roles as well as meet new characters to love/hate/or both.
Can’t wait to find out what happens next in the series! Thanks SJ!
August 27, 2014
Now that NA (New Adult) has taken off, I find myself listening to lots of people wanting NA but "different." Different is what the Nogiku series is all about. And I'm saying that in the very best of ways. There is something in it for everyone, but there are also things in this series that I didn't know I wanted out of a book until I was immersed in it. Unique world building, romance without a frustrating love triangle, action and adventure, interesting science fiction, suspense, friendship, diversity and girl power. And while all of that is fabulous on its own--this book is ALL ABOUT THE ENDING!
I can't wait for book #3. I have a sneaky suspicion this series has just gotten ready to hit it's sweet spot. Trust me--get invested in the Nogiku series.
I can't wait for book #3. I have a sneaky suspicion this series has just gotten ready to hit it's sweet spot. Trust me--get invested in the Nogiku series.
June 8, 2022
Author Pajonas hooked me on this series with the first book Romoved. Intriguing characters, surprises, fascination. Until I saw a picture of the author, I thought she had to be Japanese because of her descriptions of Japanese customs and the culture. Apparently, she loves it and must have done a lot of research.
This book continues Sanaa's story in a post-apocalyptic world. Rather than depressing (as I've found post-apocalyptic stories) this series shows how the survivors and their descendants manage. With a hope for the future, the book is uplifting. Of course, there are villains who want to keep Sanaa from her destiny. I'm ready for the next book in the series.
This book continues Sanaa's story in a post-apocalyptic world. Rather than depressing (as I've found post-apocalyptic stories) this series shows how the survivors and their descendants manage. With a hope for the future, the book is uplifting. Of course, there are villains who want to keep Sanaa from her destiny. I'm ready for the next book in the series.
August 5, 2016
Loved the new family dynamics and the interesting way they play into the story. I'm a little disappointed with how things happened with Sanaa's aunt. I thought there would be more to that backstory but there wasn't.
July 29, 2015
TracingTheStars.com was given a copy of Released for an honest review
I had the pleasure of reviewing S.J Pajonas’ debut book, Removed, and it earned an outstanding five stars. Imagine my joy when I was asked to read and review book 2, Released. Released was another great work of New Adult Science Fiction by Pajonas. After being blown away by Removed, I admittedly went into Released with some pretty high expectations. Second books are a common struggle for writers, myself included, because of these expectations. While Released has many wonderful attributes and I greatly enjoyed continuing the story from book one, it fell short on some levels for me but still earned four solid stars.
Released is a true sequel. You must read book 1, Removed, before reading Released, or you will be completely confused from the very beginning. The beginning of Released was the best part for me. I absolutely loved following along with Sanaa as she slowly fell into depression, climbed out, fell back in and had a complete cabin-fever meltdown. I’m still not sure exactly why Mark thought it was best to trap her alone in the house for so long, especially if Mark was able to see how far she was going on the downward spiral, but it was riveting.
The love-story between Sanaa and Jiro is also continued with some added complications. Jiro continues to be a heartwarming, stand-up guy who wants to truly support Sanaa through all her adversities. This actually become a bit of a character flaw for Jiro later on, and I appreciated how Pajonas’ built that into the story.
Japanese culture continued to be a major factor in the story and writing. It is fully explored, including a traditional wedding ceremony (which is where the paper cranes on the cover come in) and ninjitsu culture. I thoroughly enjoyed this and, as with Removed, I thought it added a refreshingly unique flavor to this science fiction story.
The plot and other aspects of the storyline, including getting ready for the launch into space and trying to bring together all the clans, is where this book fell short of the five stars for me. The pacing was a little disjointed, with a great start then nothing really interesting happening in the middle, and then a bunch of exciting things happening at the very end. I wish more chapters had been given to the ending portion and less to the meanderings of Sanaa, her training and some of the clan politics.
Sanaa’s training (which I won’t specify because I don’t want to put in any spoilers) also bugged me a little bit, because it seemed she was too good, too quickly with everything she tried, surprising everyone around her, including me the reader. It caused me to disconnect slightly from Sanaa’s character and what she was going through, and it also made the big blow-out near the end sound more like whining than a circumstance I could feel heartbroken over.
Aside from the pacing and character issues, Released is a fantastic book. While the science fiction isn’t as predominant in this book as it was in removed, it’s still an important and well-done piece of Pajonas’ writing. The book certainly ends leaving me wanting and waiting for book three with a huge, unexpected twist that I really loved.
I had the pleasure of reviewing S.J Pajonas’ debut book, Removed, and it earned an outstanding five stars. Imagine my joy when I was asked to read and review book 2, Released. Released was another great work of New Adult Science Fiction by Pajonas. After being blown away by Removed, I admittedly went into Released with some pretty high expectations. Second books are a common struggle for writers, myself included, because of these expectations. While Released has many wonderful attributes and I greatly enjoyed continuing the story from book one, it fell short on some levels for me but still earned four solid stars.
Released is a true sequel. You must read book 1, Removed, before reading Released, or you will be completely confused from the very beginning. The beginning of Released was the best part for me. I absolutely loved following along with Sanaa as she slowly fell into depression, climbed out, fell back in and had a complete cabin-fever meltdown. I’m still not sure exactly why Mark thought it was best to trap her alone in the house for so long, especially if Mark was able to see how far she was going on the downward spiral, but it was riveting.
The love-story between Sanaa and Jiro is also continued with some added complications. Jiro continues to be a heartwarming, stand-up guy who wants to truly support Sanaa through all her adversities. This actually become a bit of a character flaw for Jiro later on, and I appreciated how Pajonas’ built that into the story.
Japanese culture continued to be a major factor in the story and writing. It is fully explored, including a traditional wedding ceremony (which is where the paper cranes on the cover come in) and ninjitsu culture. I thoroughly enjoyed this and, as with Removed, I thought it added a refreshingly unique flavor to this science fiction story.
The plot and other aspects of the storyline, including getting ready for the launch into space and trying to bring together all the clans, is where this book fell short of the five stars for me. The pacing was a little disjointed, with a great start then nothing really interesting happening in the middle, and then a bunch of exciting things happening at the very end. I wish more chapters had been given to the ending portion and less to the meanderings of Sanaa, her training and some of the clan politics.
Sanaa’s training (which I won’t specify because I don’t want to put in any spoilers) also bugged me a little bit, because it seemed she was too good, too quickly with everything she tried, surprising everyone around her, including me the reader. It caused me to disconnect slightly from Sanaa’s character and what she was going through, and it also made the big blow-out near the end sound more like whining than a circumstance I could feel heartbroken over.
Aside from the pacing and character issues, Released is a fantastic book. While the science fiction isn’t as predominant in this book as it was in removed, it’s still an important and well-done piece of Pajonas’ writing. The book certainly ends leaving me wanting and waiting for book three with a huge, unexpected twist that I really loved.
June 1, 2015
4.5 stars.
*I’d like to thank the author for providing me an ARC, in exchange for my honest review.*
With the way Removed ended with Sanaa all by herself in that house, I couldn’t get back to her fast enough. I wanted to know what was next for her, and how she’d get out of the situation she was in. I wanted answers, and I wanted to know what would be the consequences of everything that happened in the second book. Lucky for me, I got answers, along with character growth, as well as relationship developments
Sanaa grows a lot in this book. She’s really changed from how she was in the beginning of the series. She’s coming into her role very well, and I can’t wait to see what else will happen to her. I love how Sanaa still says exactly how she feels to Jiro. I love the fact that she tries her best to not let the awful things that have happened to her get her down. Sanaa is a wonderful character to follow, and I think having her narrate the whole story is just perfect.
Then, there’s Jiro. Oh, how I love Jiro!!! Even when it doesn’t seem like it, he’s always looking out for Sanaa. He’s always doing little things, even when it appears he isn’t. The relationship between Sanaa and Jiro grows significantly throughout this book, and I’m really excited to see what will become of them in future books. I love the two of them together, and think that they are a really amazing couple.
The side characters in this book were really interesting. I don’t like Jiro’s mother half as much as I did in book one. Come to think of it, I don’t really like any of the characters that we met in book one, with the exception of Sanaa’s aunts who didn’t even really feature in the story. I did really like Kentaro, though. I thought that he was going to be totally different than what he was, and I was happy to be wrong.
The plot of this story was interesting. It was about Sanaa trying to rally up alliances before the move to Yusei. There were some action scenes, and Sanaa had to be really careful in this book because there were people after her and her friends. However, this book was also about Jiro and Sanaa’s relationship. It changes significantly by the end of this book, for the better I think.
Overall, I really liked this book. It was definitely a great follow-up to Released. I loved that Jiro and Sanaa still talked things out, and when they didn’t, I never got annoyed with Sanaa because you feel everything she does. You understand the motives for her actions. I loved the action scenes too, and not all of the mysteries have been solved yet. On the contrary, this book ended with even more questions, and I really wish I had book three right now.
*I’d like to thank the author for providing me an ARC, in exchange for my honest review.*
With the way Removed ended with Sanaa all by herself in that house, I couldn’t get back to her fast enough. I wanted to know what was next for her, and how she’d get out of the situation she was in. I wanted answers, and I wanted to know what would be the consequences of everything that happened in the second book. Lucky for me, I got answers, along with character growth, as well as relationship developments
Sanaa grows a lot in this book. She’s really changed from how she was in the beginning of the series. She’s coming into her role very well, and I can’t wait to see what else will happen to her. I love how Sanaa still says exactly how she feels to Jiro. I love the fact that she tries her best to not let the awful things that have happened to her get her down. Sanaa is a wonderful character to follow, and I think having her narrate the whole story is just perfect.
Then, there’s Jiro. Oh, how I love Jiro!!! Even when it doesn’t seem like it, he’s always looking out for Sanaa. He’s always doing little things, even when it appears he isn’t. The relationship between Sanaa and Jiro grows significantly throughout this book, and I’m really excited to see what will become of them in future books. I love the two of them together, and think that they are a really amazing couple.
The side characters in this book were really interesting. I don’t like Jiro’s mother half as much as I did in book one. Come to think of it, I don’t really like any of the characters that we met in book one, with the exception of Sanaa’s aunts who didn’t even really feature in the story. I did really like Kentaro, though. I thought that he was going to be totally different than what he was, and I was happy to be wrong.
The plot of this story was interesting. It was about Sanaa trying to rally up alliances before the move to Yusei. There were some action scenes, and Sanaa had to be really careful in this book because there were people after her and her friends. However, this book was also about Jiro and Sanaa’s relationship. It changes significantly by the end of this book, for the better I think.
Overall, I really liked this book. It was definitely a great follow-up to Released. I loved that Jiro and Sanaa still talked things out, and when they didn’t, I never got annoyed with Sanaa because you feel everything she does. You understand the motives for her actions. I loved the action scenes too, and not all of the mysteries have been solved yet. On the contrary, this book ended with even more questions, and I really wish I had book three right now.
July 1, 2016
I hate to be nit-picking, but, although this book had significantly fewer typos than book 1, there were two things that jumped out at me and pulled me away from the story in the very beginning... First - Sanaa has been trapped in an apartment without any way to communicate with anyone, but then we find out that her loved ones have been watching her via video feeds from across the world..? Ok, so there would have been ways perhaps to explain this, but it felt inconsistent and not well thought out - a network is a network and Sanaa was supposed to be tablet savvy. Then, only a few moments later Sanaa wakes up on a couch, but then Jiro tells her he moved them to a bedroom. Wait... is there a couch in the bedroom? Maybe, but it felt like an oopsie. Now, it has been a couple weeks since I finished Released and these are some of the main things I remember... I would have hoped other parts of the story would have replaced these unimportant details in my memory!
The story was still plenty entertaining, and I had absolutely no problems getting immersed into the book. (I'm not usually a romance reader I suppose, but there was way more sex than I was expecting or that I thought was needed...) The interesting culture and community is continued well into book 2. There's not a ton of plot that moves forward in book 2 that was much different than book 1 though... aside from some new side plots I suppose and quite a bit of character relationship building/deconstructing. Kentaro was a good addition to the character base, and his unique position and history with Jiro added to my enjoyment of the story. I'm also hopeful that the addition of Mark's love interest will eventually satisfy some of my complaints from book 1 regarding the lack of focus on learning government leadership (at least in comparison to all the fighting training!).
Like with book 1, I didn't feel the need to go pick up the next book in the series. However, I am writing this review at 11:30pm 6/30 before an end of the month promotion to get the next book... so that must say something, right? I'm hoping book 3 will fully commit me to the series.
I got this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The story was still plenty entertaining, and I had absolutely no problems getting immersed into the book. (I'm not usually a romance reader I suppose, but there was way more sex than I was expecting or that I thought was needed...) The interesting culture and community is continued well into book 2. There's not a ton of plot that moves forward in book 2 that was much different than book 1 though... aside from some new side plots I suppose and quite a bit of character relationship building/deconstructing. Kentaro was a good addition to the character base, and his unique position and history with Jiro added to my enjoyment of the story. I'm also hopeful that the addition of Mark's love interest will eventually satisfy some of my complaints from book 1 regarding the lack of focus on learning government leadership (at least in comparison to all the fighting training!).
Like with book 1, I didn't feel the need to go pick up the next book in the series. However, I am writing this review at 11:30pm 6/30 before an end of the month promotion to get the next book... so that must say something, right? I'm hoping book 3 will fully commit me to the series.
I got this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 2, 2016
I received this book to give an honest review. Thank you S. J. Pajonas.
The book has recently changed their covers to all books in the series to more bright and colorful, beautiful!
The Released is the second book in the Nogiku Series, I found it slower than the first book and by the middle of the book the story took unexpected turns and I admire the author for changing the story this way. It's true, authors have all the power to change and influence the stories, they have full credit of making characters to Also surprised to find sexual context details between the two main characters as the novel seemed taking different lead on the first book. Overall I am not complaining, it fit the story and went along the characters.
I enjoyed the idea of Japanese sci-fi clashes between clans and the power each clan wants to get to be the main one. I wasn't surprised by the final note/turn of the plot and would be interesting to see how the enemies try to attack in the next book. I also have to admit, through the whole novel I was sure some other story will happen but it never did :) The both leading characters - Sakai and Sanaa are thrown into Sakai's family drama and Sanaa has to face many challenging situations, her diplomatic approach is wonderfully beautiful, she is trying to be the leader and professional, while at the same time she is very much on her own solitude, failing friends and growing enemies. In this book her aunts has stayed away and the book focuses on clan matters. INTERESTING and funny at the times!
The book has recently changed their covers to all books in the series to more bright and colorful, beautiful!
The Released is the second book in the Nogiku Series, I found it slower than the first book and by the middle of the book the story took unexpected turns and I admire the author for changing the story this way. It's true, authors have all the power to change and influence the stories, they have full credit of making characters to Also surprised to find sexual context details between the two main characters as the novel seemed taking different lead on the first book. Overall I am not complaining, it fit the story and went along the characters.
I enjoyed the idea of Japanese sci-fi clashes between clans and the power each clan wants to get to be the main one. I wasn't surprised by the final note/turn of the plot and would be interesting to see how the enemies try to attack in the next book. I also have to admit, through the whole novel I was sure some other story will happen but it never did :) The both leading characters - Sakai and Sanaa are thrown into Sakai's family drama and Sanaa has to face many challenging situations, her diplomatic approach is wonderfully beautiful, she is trying to be the leader and professional, while at the same time she is very much on her own solitude, failing friends and growing enemies. In this book her aunts has stayed away and the book focuses on clan matters. INTERESTING and funny at the times!
Read
November 12, 2014For buy links and more information, visit:
http://www.spajonas.com/released/
Want to know when new books by S. J. Pajonas are available? Sign-up for the New Releases Newsletter: http://www.spajonas.com/newsletter/
Please check out the Pinterest board full of images that inspired RELEASED: http://www.pinterest.com/spajonas/released-nogiku-series-2-inspiration/
http://www.spajonas.com/released/
Want to know when new books by S. J. Pajonas are available? Sign-up for the New Releases Newsletter: http://www.spajonas.com/newsletter/
Please check out the Pinterest board full of images that inspired RELEASED: http://www.pinterest.com/spajonas/released-nogiku-series-2-inspiration/
November 3, 2016
After reading the first book in this series, I was waiting excitedly for the next installment. Needless to say, I loved this book just as much as the previous!
S.J. Pajones has a magical style of writing. The reader can envision everything, yet the reader is not inundated with unnecessary detail. I so felt for Sanaa throughout this book. I felt heart ache and sorrow.
The book picks up with Sanaa having been placed in an isolation apartment until it is safe for her to return. She is only supposed to be there a month, but ends up staying for much longer with no contact with the outside world. Poor thing. I felt so sad for her, feeling as though she was abandoned and forgotten.
When she is finally brought back to her home, life is so different and hard for her. S. J. Pajones did an excellent job of creating character development while also creating realistic scenarios for the characters. I hate when books have an easy plot, when everything just works out. This was not the case in this book. Poor Sanaa never was allowed a break.
I keep falling more and more in love with this story, the world, and these characters. I can't imagine there not being another book in the series with the cliff hanger I was left with! I had wondered how the author would tackle the traveling time in space and she did it realistically and well. I just can't explain how much I loved this book and hunger for the next installment!!!
S.J. Pajones has a magical style of writing. The reader can envision everything, yet the reader is not inundated with unnecessary detail. I so felt for Sanaa throughout this book. I felt heart ache and sorrow.
The book picks up with Sanaa having been placed in an isolation apartment until it is safe for her to return. She is only supposed to be there a month, but ends up staying for much longer with no contact with the outside world. Poor thing. I felt so sad for her, feeling as though she was abandoned and forgotten.
When she is finally brought back to her home, life is so different and hard for her. S. J. Pajones did an excellent job of creating character development while also creating realistic scenarios for the characters. I hate when books have an easy plot, when everything just works out. This was not the case in this book. Poor Sanaa never was allowed a break.
I keep falling more and more in love with this story, the world, and these characters. I can't imagine there not being another book in the series with the cliff hanger I was left with! I had wondered how the author would tackle the traveling time in space and she did it realistically and well. I just can't explain how much I loved this book and hunger for the next installment!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 18, 2013
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
After recovering from an earthquake and an attempt on her life, Sanaa Itami is finally brought rescued from her isolated apartment in the desert and brought home. She jumps right back into her plans to rule as rightful empress when she and her people leave a dying Earth for a new planet, and back into love with the man of her life Jiro. But before the big journey happens, Sanaa must face lingering threats on her life from rival clans, navigating the tricky balance of personal life and obligations to her people, and the doubt that comes along with being a strong woman in love with a strong man from a powerful family.
RELEASED, S.J. Pajonas' second book in the Nogiku series, did not disappoint. In fact, having already been familiar with the construct of the world in which Sanaa lives, I found myself jumping right into this new story and hardly coming up for breath. Exciting action, sensual love, and intriguing but light sci-fi combined to captivate me as a reader. And the ending left me on the edge of my seat waiting for the third of the Nogiku tales. Perfect for fans of romance, sci-fi, or New Adult, RELEASED is fast-paced and wonderful!
After recovering from an earthquake and an attempt on her life, Sanaa Itami is finally brought rescued from her isolated apartment in the desert and brought home. She jumps right back into her plans to rule as rightful empress when she and her people leave a dying Earth for a new planet, and back into love with the man of her life Jiro. But before the big journey happens, Sanaa must face lingering threats on her life from rival clans, navigating the tricky balance of personal life and obligations to her people, and the doubt that comes along with being a strong woman in love with a strong man from a powerful family.
RELEASED, S.J. Pajonas' second book in the Nogiku series, did not disappoint. In fact, having already been familiar with the construct of the world in which Sanaa lives, I found myself jumping right into this new story and hardly coming up for breath. Exciting action, sensual love, and intriguing but light sci-fi combined to captivate me as a reader. And the ending left me on the edge of my seat waiting for the third of the Nogiku tales. Perfect for fans of romance, sci-fi, or New Adult, RELEASED is fast-paced and wonderful!
June 16, 2014
First, I’d like to thank S.J. Pajonas for providing me an advanced reader copy, in exchange for my honest review.
So far, this series is the kind you don't want to put down. The only reason it has taken me so long to read it is because I'm a parent to two small children. If given the time, I would have read it cover to cover in one sitting and when I got a block of time this weekend, I read the last half in just about one go of it.
I am completely invested in all the relationships in the series, get teary when a character is lost, gasp aloud when one acts unexpectedly and adore the relationship between Sanna and Jiro. The author has done a great job of combining a love story, a tale of complicated family dynamics, sci fi, and action and by doing this, there's never a dull moment, never any filler and you're constantly wondering what will happen next.
If you are considering reading one, just buy both (and soon the third installment!) all at once. As you finish one book, you're just going to want to keep reading straight through, as the story flows so well from one to the next. As a new author, S.J. Pajonas is talented and engaging. The editing is spot on and I look forward to her future work with eager anticipation.
So far, this series is the kind you don't want to put down. The only reason it has taken me so long to read it is because I'm a parent to two small children. If given the time, I would have read it cover to cover in one sitting and when I got a block of time this weekend, I read the last half in just about one go of it.
I am completely invested in all the relationships in the series, get teary when a character is lost, gasp aloud when one acts unexpectedly and adore the relationship between Sanna and Jiro. The author has done a great job of combining a love story, a tale of complicated family dynamics, sci fi, and action and by doing this, there's never a dull moment, never any filler and you're constantly wondering what will happen next.
If you are considering reading one, just buy both (and soon the third installment!) all at once. As you finish one book, you're just going to want to keep reading straight through, as the story flows so well from one to the next. As a new author, S.J. Pajonas is talented and engaging. The editing is spot on and I look forward to her future work with eager anticipation.
August 9, 2016
Another very enjoyable read from Ms. Pajonas! I loved watching Sanaa come into her own with her new identity. I enjoy her playfulness and her love for Jiro.
Learning more about the Japanese culture was extremely interesting as well!
And I can't wait to discover more about Kentaro! He's becoming another favorite character! I've been waiting two books for what finally happened at the end of this book. I need the next book right now!!!
I rated this a 4 because it felt like the middle became a bit bogged down and slow. I didn't really like the dejected Sanaa or the "family" members who were responsible. I would have preferred more action or even more ninja training. But I think it may be the fact that contemporary isn't my favorite genre. I wanted more sci-fi and colonization!
With that said, I think book 3 is what I've been waiting for and I can't wait.
Learning more about the Japanese culture was extremely interesting as well!
And I can't wait to discover more about Kentaro! He's becoming another favorite character! I've been waiting two books for what finally happened at the end of this book. I need the next book right now!!!
I rated this a 4 because it felt like the middle became a bit bogged down and slow. I didn't really like the dejected Sanaa or the "family" members who were responsible. I would have preferred more action or even more ninja training. But I think it may be the fact that contemporary isn't my favorite genre. I wanted more sci-fi and colonization!
With that said, I think book 3 is what I've been waiting for and I can't wait.
March 25, 2015
A quick note on the YA tag: for 99% of the book this is a story of a few young adults working through various challenges and dilemmas, and to me it reads like a YA adventure. However, there is *one* fairly explicit erotic scene about 1/3 into the story. A few other references to "how good it is to sleep together".
As the middle story in a trilogy, it is understood that this is the transition phase, and it meets that requirement very well. There is a bit more angst here than in the first book, as our heroine is treated badly by those who are supposed to love and support her. There is also a good amount of intrigue and excitement. There were a couple of places where I thought: "Well that was unexpected." Several things are not resolved happily, which is good.
I'm enjoying the writing style and the culturally confused world the author has created. I'm off to read book 3.
As the middle story in a trilogy, it is understood that this is the transition phase, and it meets that requirement very well. There is a bit more angst here than in the first book, as our heroine is treated badly by those who are supposed to love and support her. There is also a good amount of intrigue and excitement. There were a couple of places where I thought: "Well that was unexpected." Several things are not resolved happily, which is good.
I'm enjoying the writing style and the culturally confused world the author has created. I'm off to read book 3.
October 21, 2014
Book 2 of the Nogiku Series did not disappoint. Continuing straight off from where Book 1 ended, we delve deeper into Sanaa and Jiro's relationship and experience a more in depth look at their emotions. S.J. Pajonas has cleverly managed to evoke the right amount of angst brought about by the various acts of betrayal, lies, and secrets that come into play in this book. Set amid a domed world in a post apocalyptic Earth, Book 2 brings us to the point where Sanaa is poised at the brink of ruling the new world, Yusei, a planet several light years away. We see a slightly wiser and older Sanaa as she grapples with the overwhelming task ahead of her. I look forward to Book 3.
August 11, 2016
Oh, ho. This is that rare occurrence. The sequel that outshines the first of a series. Oh, man. The excitement and political intrigue really ramp up here. I enjoyed the heck out of the first Nogiku, but this one blew me away.
The strength of these books is in the romance, no question. Book two has a clear focus on the love story that does not detract at all from the scifi plotlines. There was so much going on that I wondered continually how I kept up. The answer to that question is that Pajonas did such an excellent job dragging me along that it was no trouble at all.
You need to read the first, but I can't recommend this one strongly enough. Really loved it
The strength of these books is in the romance, no question. Book two has a clear focus on the love story that does not detract at all from the scifi plotlines. There was so much going on that I wondered continually how I kept up. The answer to that question is that Pajonas did such an excellent job dragging me along that it was no trouble at all.
You need to read the first, but I can't recommend this one strongly enough. Really loved it
January 14, 2014
I received this book as an ARC. An amazing follow up to the outstanding book one of the series! This book keeps you engaged from the moment you start reading it all the way the jaw-dropping ending! You will be begging for book 3, Steph plays her readers with the same cunning that Sanaa plays the clan leaders of her world. Once again the book is filled with amazing attention to detail and great character development. You will fall in love with these characters, laugh with them and cry with them. Amazing book!
September 3, 2014
The second book in the Nogiku Series continued to enchant me and did not disappoint. The world that these characters live in is so richly described, I felt like I was there. At the heart of these books is an exciting romance between the two main characters and as a reader I fell in love with both of them as well. But this book is not just about romance, it keeps you engaged with action and little mysteries revealed, and in-law drama! Who can't relate to that? I love this series of books and suggest them if you want to find some characters you can fall in love with.
October 15, 2016
Second book of Sanaa
Sanaa is still not liking the idea of her freedom being curtailed, but because of Jiro and Sankai she is learning to live with it.
They are getting ready to board the ship and fly to their new planet where life would be better or would it?
Definitely more than a beach read, could be what possibly happens in our future. Makes you think.
Sanaa is still not liking the idea of her freedom being curtailed, but because of Jiro and Sankai she is learning to live with it.
They are getting ready to board the ship and fly to their new planet where life would be better or would it?
Definitely more than a beach read, could be what possibly happens in our future. Makes you think.
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