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Taken #3
Forged
Gray Weathersby and his group of rebels must make their final stand in the epic conclusion to the Taken trilogy, which New York Times bestselling author Marie Lu called "an action-packed thrill ride from beginning to end."
The Order is building an unstoppable army, with every generation of Forgeries harder to detect and deadlier than the one before. It’s time for Gray and his fellow rebels to end the Order's world of lies. But when the most familiar faces—and even the girl he loves—can’t be trusted, Gray will have to tread carefully if he wants to succeed. Or survive.
The Order is building an unstoppable army, with every generation of Forgeries harder to detect and deadlier than the one before. It’s time for Gray and his fellow rebels to end the Order's world of lies. But when the most familiar faces—and even the girl he loves—can’t be trusted, Gray will have to tread carefully if he wants to succeed. Or survive.
368 pages, Paperback
First published April 14, 2015
83 people are currently reading
4972 people want to read
About the author
Erin Bowman
18 books1,968 followersErin Bowman is the critically acclaimed author of numerous books for children and teens, including the Taken Trilogy, Vengeance Road, Retribution Rails, the Edgar Award-nominated Contagion duology, The Girl and the Witch’s Garden, and the forthcoming Dustborn. A web designer turned author, Erin has always been invested in telling stories—both visually and with words. Erin lives in New Hampshire with her husband and children. You can visit her online at embowman.com, on twitter @erin_bowman, or on instagram @heyerin.
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PLEASE NOTE: Erin does not check goodreads mail. If you message her this way she will not see it. For contact methods, visit Erin's website.
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PLEASE NOTE: Erin does not check goodreads mail. If you message her this way she will not see it. For contact methods, visit Erin's website.
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books-i-wrote
March 4, 2015Hooray! The cover has been revealed. See it in all it's high res glory HERE.
Stealing Jodi Meadow's brilliant teaser idea, I will release a FORGED teaser for every 1,000 goodreads adds. Go forth and add it to your shelves.
2K TEASER: http://erinbowman.tumblr.com/post/903...
3K TEASER: http://erinbowman.tumblr.com/post/101...
4K TEASER: http://erinbowman.tumblr.com/post/112...
5K ??
Stealing Jodi Meadow's brilliant teaser idea, I will release a FORGED teaser for every 1,000 goodreads adds. Go forth and add it to your shelves.
2K TEASER: http://erinbowman.tumblr.com/post/903...
3K TEASER: http://erinbowman.tumblr.com/post/101...
4K TEASER: http://erinbowman.tumblr.com/post/112...
5K ??
March 9, 2015
Hot diggity!
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Forged by Erin Bowman
Book Three of the Taken series
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication Date: April 14, 2015
Rating: 3 stars
Source: ARC sent by the publisher
Summary (from Goodreads):
Gray Weathersby and his group of rebels must make their final stand in the epic conclusion to the Taken trilogy, which New York Times bestselling author Marie Lu called "an action-packed thrill ride from beginning to end."
The Order is building an unstoppable army, with every generation of Forgeries harder to detect and deadlier than the one before. It’s time for Gray and his fellow rebels to end the Order's world of lies. But when the most familiar faces—and even the girl he loves—can’t be trusted, Gray will have to tread carefully if he wants to succeed. Or survive.
What I Liked:
I think, of the three novels, this one was my favorite. Taken and Frozen received the same rating as this book, but of the three-star trilogy, Forged is my favorite. While it excelled in some areas (in comparison to its predecessors), it failed in other areas (where the other two might have failed as well). Overall, I'm glad that I stuck it out and finished this series, but it definitely isn't a favorite series of all time.
Gray, Blaine, Bree, and the group of rebels must plan their every move carefully in order to take down Frank and the Order. But Forgeries are everywhere, and it's getting more difficult to tell who is true and who is Forged. This conclusion novel is rife with betrayals, torture, and heartbreak.
One thing that really worked for me in this book was the resolution of the love triangle. I stuck with this series because I liked the idea of it, and I wanted to know how it would end. I wasn't burning with curiosity, but I like finishing what I start. In this book, from the start, it is clear that Gray wants Bree and only Bree. He constantly says that he loves Emma like he loves his friends, like Sammy or Clipper. Gray spends the whole book trying to convey to Bree that his deepest regret is vacillating over whether he loves her and wants to be with her.
So, I'm glad that love triangle was cleared up. The romance was meh; on the one hand, I hated Bree's tough-girl act, in terms of the romance. On the other hand, I see her point - she wants to protect herself from being turned down or jilted by Gray again. Understandable.
Just so we're clear - I don't like Bree, never have.
There is a lot of action in this book, just as there is a lot of "dead" time. I definitely did a lot of skimming, in terms of the "dead" time, but I was really invested in the action, chunks at a time. There was this one point in the book, around page 160, when my heart stopped. And broke. And that was when I knew that, no matter how this book would end, this book would be my favorite of the series. Bowman did something extremely shocking and heartbreaking, and in the first half of the book! I totally would have expected something like that in the very end of the book. Props to her (though I'm SO SAD about that event).
I have to be honest - I couldn't remember much of the specifics of Taken and Frozen. Which is very telling of how invested I was in this series, I know. But I think this novel functioned well as a conclusion novel. The pacing was pretty consistent with the first two books (i.e. slow), and the novel addresses the big picture problem in little steps that lead to the big climax. The finish is a bit cliche, in my opinion, but whatever. It could have ended worse.
What I Did Not Like:
I still don't like Bree. She's too prickly and dense and standoffish and annoying and rude and brash and idiotic and did I mention annoying? I know what the author was going for - a fiery, brave, independent girl who doesn't need a guy by her side. Mostly, I found her irritating. The tough girl act got old real fast, and I just wanted to punch her. Talk about mixed signals. Talk about stupid decisions. Talk about double standards. I did not like this girl. She acts like she knows it all and everyone must listen to her when she has a FEELING, but God forbid anyone tell her she's wrong or try to do something other than what she said.
Bottom line: if Bree were a male, we'd cry A**HOLE/JERK/BASTARD in two seconds. I don't like these traits in a male, and I don't like them in a female. I don't like anyone like that.
Another problem that was consistent in all three books - the snooze factor. There are so many points in this book were I was bored, and then there were a few chunks when OMG THINGS ARE HAPPENING and then things calm down to the suspicion/wondering/musing parts of the book and I was back to being bored. Like, can we ponder what we should do next while on the move to the next safe house or something? Multitask? Maybe?
I mentioned that I thought the ending was cliche - well, yeah. It wraps up pretty much how you might expect a cookie-cutter ending to wrap up. With the exception of that one surprising event on page 160-something (which is like, earlier than one half of the book), this book's ending has no big surprises. In my opinion. Maybe I saw it all coming. Maybe you all will see it coming. Maybe it's all just not that surprising.
Would I Recommend It:
Well, if you've read Taken and Frozen, I'm of the opinion that you might as well read the third book. But it IS a pretty satisfying conclusion novel, and you won't be utterly heartbroken or flabbergasted. Especially if you don't have the problems that I had. This series definitely isn't the worse series I've read - in fact, it's an okay one, in my opinion. It's not a favorite, but I wouldn't necessarily NOT recommend it, if that makes sense.
Rating:
3 stars. It was good, but not the best thing ever. I'm glad I read this series, and I'll definitely be looking out for Bowman's books in the future. I'll be catching Vengeance Road in September for sure. I think this author is a great writer and has plenty of potential, but perhaps this series wasn't a "wow" series for me.
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Forged by Erin Bowman
Book Three of the Taken series
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication Date: April 14, 2015
Rating: 3 stars
Source: ARC sent by the publisher
Summary (from Goodreads):
Gray Weathersby and his group of rebels must make their final stand in the epic conclusion to the Taken trilogy, which New York Times bestselling author Marie Lu called "an action-packed thrill ride from beginning to end."
The Order is building an unstoppable army, with every generation of Forgeries harder to detect and deadlier than the one before. It’s time for Gray and his fellow rebels to end the Order's world of lies. But when the most familiar faces—and even the girl he loves—can’t be trusted, Gray will have to tread carefully if he wants to succeed. Or survive.
What I Liked:
I think, of the three novels, this one was my favorite. Taken and Frozen received the same rating as this book, but of the three-star trilogy, Forged is my favorite. While it excelled in some areas (in comparison to its predecessors), it failed in other areas (where the other two might have failed as well). Overall, I'm glad that I stuck it out and finished this series, but it definitely isn't a favorite series of all time.
Gray, Blaine, Bree, and the group of rebels must plan their every move carefully in order to take down Frank and the Order. But Forgeries are everywhere, and it's getting more difficult to tell who is true and who is Forged. This conclusion novel is rife with betrayals, torture, and heartbreak.
One thing that really worked for me in this book was the resolution of the love triangle. I stuck with this series because I liked the idea of it, and I wanted to know how it would end. I wasn't burning with curiosity, but I like finishing what I start. In this book, from the start, it is clear that Gray wants Bree and only Bree. He constantly says that he loves Emma like he loves his friends, like Sammy or Clipper. Gray spends the whole book trying to convey to Bree that his deepest regret is vacillating over whether he loves her and wants to be with her.
So, I'm glad that love triangle was cleared up. The romance was meh; on the one hand, I hated Bree's tough-girl act, in terms of the romance. On the other hand, I see her point - she wants to protect herself from being turned down or jilted by Gray again. Understandable.
Just so we're clear - I don't like Bree, never have.
There is a lot of action in this book, just as there is a lot of "dead" time. I definitely did a lot of skimming, in terms of the "dead" time, but I was really invested in the action, chunks at a time. There was this one point in the book, around page 160, when my heart stopped. And broke. And that was when I knew that, no matter how this book would end, this book would be my favorite of the series. Bowman did something extremely shocking and heartbreaking, and in the first half of the book! I totally would have expected something like that in the very end of the book. Props to her (though I'm SO SAD about that event).
I have to be honest - I couldn't remember much of the specifics of Taken and Frozen. Which is very telling of how invested I was in this series, I know. But I think this novel functioned well as a conclusion novel. The pacing was pretty consistent with the first two books (i.e. slow), and the novel addresses the big picture problem in little steps that lead to the big climax. The finish is a bit cliche, in my opinion, but whatever. It could have ended worse.
What I Did Not Like:
I still don't like Bree. She's too prickly and dense and standoffish and annoying and rude and brash and idiotic and did I mention annoying? I know what the author was going for - a fiery, brave, independent girl who doesn't need a guy by her side. Mostly, I found her irritating. The tough girl act got old real fast, and I just wanted to punch her. Talk about mixed signals. Talk about stupid decisions. Talk about double standards. I did not like this girl. She acts like she knows it all and everyone must listen to her when she has a FEELING, but God forbid anyone tell her she's wrong or try to do something other than what she said.
Bottom line: if Bree were a male, we'd cry A**HOLE/JERK/BASTARD in two seconds. I don't like these traits in a male, and I don't like them in a female. I don't like anyone like that.
Another problem that was consistent in all three books - the snooze factor. There are so many points in this book were I was bored, and then there were a few chunks when OMG THINGS ARE HAPPENING and then things calm down to the suspicion/wondering/musing parts of the book and I was back to being bored. Like, can we ponder what we should do next while on the move to the next safe house or something? Multitask? Maybe?
I mentioned that I thought the ending was cliche - well, yeah. It wraps up pretty much how you might expect a cookie-cutter ending to wrap up. With the exception of that one surprising event on page 160-something (which is like, earlier than one half of the book), this book's ending has no big surprises. In my opinion. Maybe I saw it all coming. Maybe you all will see it coming. Maybe it's all just not that surprising.
Would I Recommend It:
Well, if you've read Taken and Frozen, I'm of the opinion that you might as well read the third book. But it IS a pretty satisfying conclusion novel, and you won't be utterly heartbroken or flabbergasted. Especially if you don't have the problems that I had. This series definitely isn't the worse series I've read - in fact, it's an okay one, in my opinion. It's not a favorite, but I wouldn't necessarily NOT recommend it, if that makes sense.
Rating:
3 stars. It was good, but not the best thing ever. I'm glad I read this series, and I'll definitely be looking out for Bowman's books in the future. I'll be catching Vengeance Road in September for sure. I think this author is a great writer and has plenty of potential, but perhaps this series wasn't a "wow" series for me.
June 3, 2015
Even going in without a reread or any idea wtf was going on, I was able to slip right back into the story and get so invested in these characters.
This installment definitely starts with a bang and doesn't let go until the very end. There were so many twists and a couple of scenes where I actually gasped out loud because I couldn't believe it was happening. There are a few sweet swoons, but mostly it's action and snark.
All in all, an excellent ending to the series.
Huge thanks to Kristen at My Friends Are Fiction for sending me the arc.
This installment definitely starts with a bang and doesn't let go until the very end. There were so many twists and a couple of scenes where I actually gasped out loud because I couldn't believe it was happening. There are a few sweet swoons, but mostly it's action and snark.
All in all, an excellent ending to the series.
Huge thanks to Kristen at My Friends Are Fiction for sending me the arc.
April 19, 2015
So being honest when I went into reading this book, I kind of forgot a few small minor details, but as soon as I got through the first two chapters all my memories of the other books came flooding back and wow, I was not expecting this book to have such an intense emotional sense throughout the entire book. It was an amazing way to end this trilogy I was so happy with the direction Erin took things in this book. Gosh there are so many things I want to talk about! Forged gave you everything you needed in a trilogy like this, you still have your action, drama, romance and suspense (lots of suspense), but in every situation you get this build up and you aren’t sure which direction things are going to go in and then at the same time, when certain things do happen you are left with this huge shock! I won’t say what, but for example there was this one scene and it crushed me and being honest I kept hoping that the situation that had happened was a lie and not real and the further I got in the book I was like that was real and that really happened (my emotions were high), anyway I love that Erin is able to do that in this book she keeps you second guessing but at the same time wraps up everything very nicely.
So about the main character Gray he still frustrates the hell out of me, but that’s Gray and we don’t want to change him at all, though there are a couple things you would think that he would’ve learned by now, but of course this just shows boys will be boys I guess haha. I do like how Gray is more attuned to his feelings in this book and the directions he goes in because it opens up this whole other side to him that we have been waiting to see in the other two books. So I definitely was very happy with the way things developed with Gray.
I will say this though, the ending (though not an epilogue) was perfect for this book/trilogy. I basically love the message that comes across in this book and overall feeling you have when you finish it because it gives you that sense that you need.
I absolutely love this trilogy and Forged hit it home for wrapping things up. I am sad though that it is ending, I will miss Gray and Bree a lot, every time I think of loons I will think of this book.
So about the main character Gray he still frustrates the hell out of me, but that’s Gray and we don’t want to change him at all, though there are a couple things you would think that he would’ve learned by now, but of course this just shows boys will be boys I guess haha. I do like how Gray is more attuned to his feelings in this book and the directions he goes in because it opens up this whole other side to him that we have been waiting to see in the other two books. So I definitely was very happy with the way things developed with Gray.
I will say this though, the ending (though not an epilogue) was perfect for this book/trilogy. I basically love the message that comes across in this book and overall feeling you have when you finish it because it gives you that sense that you need.
I absolutely love this trilogy and Forged hit it home for wrapping things up. I am sad though that it is ending, I will miss Gray and Bree a lot, every time I think of loons I will think of this book.
March 30, 2016
3.5 stars...
Forged is the final book in the Taken trilogy. The Rebels and Expats have been building forces to try and take down Frank & the Franconian Order and all of his Forgeries (clones). To do that they have to get back into the city of Taem, into the Order's headquarters which, of course presents challenges and unforseen obstacles along the way.
Meh, it was alright - that was my first thoughts when finish this book. My problem with it, is that it was too similar to the previous books Taken and Frozen. Some of the things Gray's Rebel group did in their mission were just replays of their previous trip to Taem like for ex. That was all done before in the previous books. I also think there was way too much time spent on Bree and Gray's relationship issues especially toward the beginning. The book wasn't bad but there just wasn't anything new or special about it and it really didn't move me like the other books did.
Forged is the final book in the Taken trilogy. The Rebels and Expats have been building forces to try and take down Frank & the Franconian Order and all of his Forgeries (clones). To do that they have to get back into the city of Taem, into the Order's headquarters which, of course presents challenges and unforseen obstacles along the way.
Meh, it was alright - that was my first thoughts when finish this book. My problem with it, is that it was too similar to the previous books Taken and Frozen. Some of the things Gray's Rebel group did in their mission were just replays of their previous trip to Taem like for ex. That was all done before in the previous books. I also think there was way too much time spent on Bree and Gray's relationship issues especially toward the beginning. The book wasn't bad but there just wasn't anything new or special about it and it really didn't move me like the other books did.
January 24, 2015
A few weeks ago, my best friend won an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) of Forged, the third and final book in the Taken trilogy by Erin Bowman. I will readily admit that this book was my most anticipated release for 2015, so I was beyond excited when she received it. I anxiously waited for her to finish it (which only took her a day!) and then I tore it out of her hands for my turn. I was hoping for a conclusion to this trilogy that would be as exciting, bittersweet, heartbreaking, and uplifting as the first two books. Forged did not disappoint. Erin Bowman weaves together characters with some of the most authentic relationships I have ever read, and from the first book I have held a special place for Gray Weathersby and his friends. When they love, the reader loves. When they ache, the reader aches. Forged is as funny as it is painful, as charming as it is soul-crushing. I need the books I read to make me feel something. In Forged, Erin Bowman tore out my heart and then ever so gently stitched it back together again. All the while the book delivers racing action that makes it almost impossible to put down. If you liked the first two Taken books (Taken and Frozen), you will love Forged. If you haven’t read the Taken trilogy, do it.
May 1, 2015
WHAT IS THIS HORRID WORLD. This book was literally Game of Thrones. SO MANY PEOPLE DIE! Erin does not refrain from deaths in this series. I was sobbing with terror and mortification. This book was Allegiant 2.0 except it wasn't slow or boring or confusing but because... IM SO EMOTIONAL DONT JUDGE ME. I just cant. This was so quick and action-packed and thrilling but also extremely sad. Do take into consideration before starting this series: DONT GET ATTACHED TO THE CHARACTERS BECUASE THIS BOOK WILL RIP YOUR HEART TO SHREDS.
September 17, 2015
Three novels, one novella and then everyone dies.
The deaths became so numerous that they became typical.
Blaine's death shocked me the most. He totally didn't expect it and it was so quick.
Clipper's death was the saddest.
In the first book, I loved Emma's naive personality but I also loved how strong she became at the end. I'm just glad she's not dead too.
Bree.. Amazing. Definitely my favorite.
Sammy's great too.
This trilogy is certainly a must-read. Similar to The Maze Runner and to Delirium.
The deaths became so numerous that they became typical.
Blaine's death shocked me the most. He totally didn't expect it and it was so quick.
Clipper's death was the saddest.
In the first book, I loved Emma's naive personality but I also loved how strong she became at the end. I'm just glad she's not dead too.
Bree.. Amazing. Definitely my favorite.
Sammy's great too.
This trilogy is certainly a must-read. Similar to The Maze Runner and to Delirium.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2015
One thing I love about literature is its diversity, and the ability for every reader to find "that book" which stamps itself on them and leaves a mark of some emotion. If as readers we are lucky, we find multiple books which leave an impression. For me, the Taken Trilogy found a home. This is the first series with a male protagonist which I have loved since reading Harry Potter (I seem to be picky with my male main characters).
I was anxious to read the final installment after being torn to pieces by the end of the second installment, Frozen, but had faith Erin Bowman would set things right. I had my wish fulfilled, though first I had to read through more gut wrenching scenes and hair yanking suspense, but the ending was a balm for those shattered pieces.
In a world where trust in another could lead to a death sentence, Gray Weathersby clings to those he loves and risks everything to expose the truth which divides the nation. Forged becomes an example of the challenge to humanity when faced with no clear moral answer, and the fortitude of unbreakable bonds between family, friends, and lovers.
This books is fast paced (I finished it in one reading as there was never a good stopping point) with the perfect amount of suspense, humor, and endearing moments. But the true strength of this book can be found in the characters. The entire cast is so well-written, each with their own unique voice and set of quirks, that they linger even after completing the book. I could write more, but there would be spoilers.
If you love books full of suspense, adventure, moments where you want to scream because everything is about to fall apart-then read the Taken trilogy. If you love books with characters who are raw and real and flawed, then read the Taken trilogy. If you love books which present challenges to the human spirit, then read the Taken trilogy. If you loved Hunger Games-read the Taken trilogy. And if you love that big fat thing called cosmic irony-then this series is for you!
I was anxious to read the final installment after being torn to pieces by the end of the second installment, Frozen, but had faith Erin Bowman would set things right. I had my wish fulfilled, though first I had to read through more gut wrenching scenes and hair yanking suspense, but the ending was a balm for those shattered pieces.
In a world where trust in another could lead to a death sentence, Gray Weathersby clings to those he loves and risks everything to expose the truth which divides the nation. Forged becomes an example of the challenge to humanity when faced with no clear moral answer, and the fortitude of unbreakable bonds between family, friends, and lovers.
This books is fast paced (I finished it in one reading as there was never a good stopping point) with the perfect amount of suspense, humor, and endearing moments. But the true strength of this book can be found in the characters. The entire cast is so well-written, each with their own unique voice and set of quirks, that they linger even after completing the book. I could write more, but there would be spoilers.
If you love books full of suspense, adventure, moments where you want to scream because everything is about to fall apart-then read the Taken trilogy. If you love books with characters who are raw and real and flawed, then read the Taken trilogy. If you love books which present challenges to the human spirit, then read the Taken trilogy. If you loved Hunger Games-read the Taken trilogy. And if you love that big fat thing called cosmic irony-then this series is for you!
December 26, 2015
Bree and Gray are amazing as always.
Want to read
May 1, 2015I need to get my hands on this book!
May 30, 2016
This review was originally posted on Fable's Library
I had high hopes for Forged. I LOVED the second book to the Taken trilogy and so I wanted the third book to be just as good...
The Good:
The ending fit the book perfectly, there wasn't anything I'd really change. It had me almost in tears, that's how great I thought the ending was.
There were some great action scenes, one was kind of graphic 0.0 but it made the bad guys seem a lot badder!
The Bad:
There were times when I felt like the story was slow.
I didn't connect with ANY of the characters at all, things happened to them and I felt NOTHING. I should have been sad or shocked but I felt nothing, which made me kind of sad.
Overall:
I don't have much to say about Forged, sorry, but my thoughts are kind of jumbled right now. Forged, sadly, did not live up to my high hopes. But my hopes were incredibly high, perhaps too high. The second book I LOVED, the first book was okay, the third book I didn't like as much. I feel like this happens a lot when it comes to series but oh well, you win some you lost some. The one thing I loved about Forged the most was the ending, everything was wrapped up nicely and I couldn't ask for a better ending!
I had high hopes for Forged. I LOVED the second book to the Taken trilogy and so I wanted the third book to be just as good...
The Good:
The ending fit the book perfectly, there wasn't anything I'd really change. It had me almost in tears, that's how great I thought the ending was.
There were some great action scenes, one was kind of graphic 0.0 but it made the bad guys seem a lot badder!
The Bad:
There were times when I felt like the story was slow.
I didn't connect with ANY of the characters at all, things happened to them and I felt NOTHING. I should have been sad or shocked but I felt nothing, which made me kind of sad.
Overall:
I don't have much to say about Forged, sorry, but my thoughts are kind of jumbled right now. Forged, sadly, did not live up to my high hopes. But my hopes were incredibly high, perhaps too high. The second book I LOVED, the first book was okay, the third book I didn't like as much. I feel like this happens a lot when it comes to series but oh well, you win some you lost some. The one thing I loved about Forged the most was the ending, everything was wrapped up nicely and I couldn't ask for a better ending!
October 7, 2015
*Source* Library
*Genre* Young Adult, Dystopian
*Rating* 3.0
*My Thoughts*
Forged is the final installment in the Taken trilogy by author Erin Bowman. It has been two months since the events of Frozen. Two months since Gray Weathersby and his surviving rebels (Adam, Blaine, Bree, & Sammy) met up with the Ex-pats hoping they would find a way to help them defeat the Franconian Order who has been creating Forgeries at an alarming rate. Two of the forgeries were of Gray and his brother Blaine. Needless to say, readers haven't see the last of the forgeries, and they make things even more interesting for our group of rebels.
*Full Review Posted 10/07/2015*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
Published: April 14th 2015 by HarperTeen
*Genre* Young Adult, Dystopian
*Rating* 3.0
*My Thoughts*
Forged is the final installment in the Taken trilogy by author Erin Bowman. It has been two months since the events of Frozen. Two months since Gray Weathersby and his surviving rebels (Adam, Blaine, Bree, & Sammy) met up with the Ex-pats hoping they would find a way to help them defeat the Franconian Order who has been creating Forgeries at an alarming rate. Two of the forgeries were of Gray and his brother Blaine. Needless to say, readers haven't see the last of the forgeries, and they make things even more interesting for our group of rebels.
*Full Review Posted 10/07/2015*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
Published: April 14th 2015 by HarperTeen
July 14, 2014
I'm gonna pay for this book like for full trilogy (no polish edition) but it will be worth it ! :3 I can't wait! Erin is definitly one of my favourite writers!
And that cover is totally amazing GODDDD.
And that cover is totally amazing GODDDD.
October 6, 2023
4.5 stars
July 10, 2017
I want to say I give this 3.5 stars.
I felt like this book was slow going and I found myself wondering how this was the last book because nothing seemed to be happening for a while.
I was worried I'd be lost because I haven't read the 2nd book for a few years but I'm glad I read a summary of the 2nd book because there are so many characters that I definitely wouldn't have remembered who they were. I still only vaguely remember the last book.
SPOILERS AHEAD.
Anyway, I was hoping so badly that Blaine, Grey's brother who was killed, was a forgery, but he wasn't. My heart.
I found Emma to be annoying and pretty much saw no use for her in this book. Even though she was the one who threw Frank, the leader, off the roof, I feel like it would've had more of a punch if someone else did it.
So many characters died in this book. Ryder, Clipper, Harvey, even though he was a forgery.
I'm also wondering why Frank was even in charge in the first place, unless that was described in the first or second book.
I'm glad Bree and Grey ended up together.
I felt like this book was slow going and I found myself wondering how this was the last book because nothing seemed to be happening for a while.
I was worried I'd be lost because I haven't read the 2nd book for a few years but I'm glad I read a summary of the 2nd book because there are so many characters that I definitely wouldn't have remembered who they were. I still only vaguely remember the last book.
SPOILERS AHEAD.
Anyway, I was hoping so badly that Blaine, Grey's brother who was killed, was a forgery, but he wasn't. My heart.
I found Emma to be annoying and pretty much saw no use for her in this book. Even though she was the one who threw Frank, the leader, off the roof, I feel like it would've had more of a punch if someone else did it.
So many characters died in this book. Ryder, Clipper, Harvey, even though he was a forgery.
I'm also wondering why Frank was even in charge in the first place, unless that was described in the first or second book.
I'm glad Bree and Grey ended up together.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2017
Ah, I feel so mushy after finishing this up. Review to come, if I won't forget.
October 5, 2015
Really enjoyed this series of Gray from Claysoot wanting to find out why all boys were heisted when they turned 18. He was born with twin brother Blaine but his mom kept him a secret for a year because she suspected the heist wasn't some force of nature. So when his real 18th birthday came and went without a heist (although his brother Blaine was taken), he started to search for answers.
I can't recall all from book 1 but just reread book 2 before I started this one. There was the girl Emily from his hometown in Claysoot who we thought he loved. When searching for answers, he meets Bree, whom he falls in love with and realizes he is not in love with Emily but loves her. Through out the story, we learn that there was a civil war, the west separated and tried to make a go on their own. AmEast was formed under Frank and the Order was created to maintain law in this Franconian era. There were colonies created like Claysoot and the one Bree was from by the waters. Frank heisted both girls and boys in an attempt to create Forgeries of these kids so he could build an army. Almost like the clones in star wars! Several mishaps ensue with forgeries who they thought was the real person. You could tell a forgery because their eyes don't dilate properly. Sometimes, when a forgery encounters something from the originals past, it will release those memories being blocked and they become more like their original than the soldier they were created to be. This happens to Jackson in book 2. To Harvey (the scientist behind all this who is inherently good) in book 3. The main characters are Gray, his twin Blaine (who dies at the hands of Gray's forgery), Emma (ends up really saving everyone in the end and stays in Taem to help the wounded), Bree (who ends up with Gray in the end), Samuel (in love with Emma and hopes to win her over), Clipper ( the young prodigy of Harvey who is fantastic but dies in the end), Aiden and his dog Rusty, who end up being adopted by September. There is Adam & Vic (expat amwest rebels, Adam dies for the cause and we think Vic was actually Frank's son), Ryder who led the rebels from AmEast and dies in the end with the showdown. Finally, all the forgeries are brought down and Frank is killed. It is Harvey's forgery who recalls that a kill-safe was put into the forgeries and when a certain overture from Mozart is played backwards, they all self-distrust. It kills him the end too.
I can't recall all from book 1 but just reread book 2 before I started this one. There was the girl Emily from his hometown in Claysoot who we thought he loved. When searching for answers, he meets Bree, whom he falls in love with and realizes he is not in love with Emily but loves her. Through out the story, we learn that there was a civil war, the west separated and tried to make a go on their own. AmEast was formed under Frank and the Order was created to maintain law in this Franconian era. There were colonies created like Claysoot and the one Bree was from by the waters. Frank heisted both girls and boys in an attempt to create Forgeries of these kids so he could build an army. Almost like the clones in star wars! Several mishaps ensue with forgeries who they thought was the real person. You could tell a forgery because their eyes don't dilate properly. Sometimes, when a forgery encounters something from the originals past, it will release those memories being blocked and they become more like their original than the soldier they were created to be. This happens to Jackson in book 2. To Harvey (the scientist behind all this who is inherently good) in book 3. The main characters are Gray, his twin Blaine (who dies at the hands of Gray's forgery), Emma (ends up really saving everyone in the end and stays in Taem to help the wounded), Bree (who ends up with Gray in the end), Samuel (in love with Emma and hopes to win her over), Clipper ( the young prodigy of Harvey who is fantastic but dies in the end), Aiden and his dog Rusty, who end up being adopted by September. There is Adam & Vic (expat amwest rebels, Adam dies for the cause and we think Vic was actually Frank's son), Ryder who led the rebels from AmEast and dies in the end with the showdown. Finally, all the forgeries are brought down and Frank is killed. It is Harvey's forgery who recalls that a kill-safe was put into the forgeries and when a certain overture from Mozart is played backwards, they all self-distrust. It kills him the end too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2014
This final book in the Taken trilogy focuses on Gray Weathersby’s increased efforts to help his band of rebels overthrow the Franconian Order that rules the country.
Gray realizes that the Order purposely publicized AmWest as their enemy because the truth is that they too are unhappy with the Order and would likely become Expat allies if the two sides ever met--which happens just before this book starts.
With new allies, the rebels are hopeful for ending Frank’s rule, however, danger surrounds them constantly. Also, tensions escalate when the newest forged clones are so believable they can even trick those closest to the original person.
Gray does not know who to trust when he finds a Forgery within his inner circle, but knows he has to keep fighting even when faced with staggering losses.
Romantic conflict continues to hound Gray as he struggles with his feelings for Bree and Emma (his future and his past) but knows his personal life is not as important as his country’s fight for freedom.
Teens will enjoy the continued action and adventure as the plot twists and turns; they will not be disappointed with the final book and feel satisfied with its heart-pounding ending.
Gray realizes that the Order purposely publicized AmWest as their enemy because the truth is that they too are unhappy with the Order and would likely become Expat allies if the two sides ever met--which happens just before this book starts.
With new allies, the rebels are hopeful for ending Frank’s rule, however, danger surrounds them constantly. Also, tensions escalate when the newest forged clones are so believable they can even trick those closest to the original person.
Gray does not know who to trust when he finds a Forgery within his inner circle, but knows he has to keep fighting even when faced with staggering losses.
Romantic conflict continues to hound Gray as he struggles with his feelings for Bree and Emma (his future and his past) but knows his personal life is not as important as his country’s fight for freedom.
Teens will enjoy the continued action and adventure as the plot twists and turns; they will not be disappointed with the final book and feel satisfied with its heart-pounding ending.
January 5, 2016
the final book of the series. many thanks to the author who wrote a recap on book 1 and 2 in her website. i needed the recap.
what i like about it? i like that it tied up pretty much every loose ends. the pace was fast enough. The ending was not too abrupt as in some books.
what i didn't like about it
..i think the same gies for most readers out ther..which is some of the good guys got kill off. and the "nail " part really makes my skin crawls. i didnt like that part and uts description though it is a necessary evil .
overall, a good read for me
what i like about it? i like that it tied up pretty much every loose ends. the pace was fast enough. The ending was not too abrupt as in some books.
what i didn't like about it
..i think the same gies for most readers out ther..which is some of the good guys got kill off. and the "nail " part really makes my skin crawls. i didnt like that part and uts description though it is a necessary evil .
overall, a good read for me
Want to read
April 14, 2015IT'S FINALLY HERE!!!
July 25, 2015
3.5 stars This book felt fairly similar to all the others and I found Gray to be annoying, however it was action packed and I liked the pacing
August 27, 2018
With Gray Weatherby and his group of rebel's decision to strike an accord with the Expats and contact with the rebel headquarters lost, “Forged” the conclusion to the Taken trilogy opens with their mission to infiltrate an Order Facility only to have the plan go awry when Gray, Emma and his twin Blaine are betrayed and given to their enemy. Beaten and tortured by his “Forgery” only the death of his brother threatens to break him until he escapes discovering some surprising information; Dimitri Frank's creating an unstoppable army of Forgeries.
Knowing the danger that threatens the rebels and their Expat allies, determined to topple the Franconian Order and stop of the killings that have decimated his family, Gray puts aside the pain of his loss joining forces with a friend thought dead to search for a fail-safe that may stop Frank and his army. But with danger increasing, risks will have to be taken that will entail further sacrifices if he’s to succeed.
As uncertainty and tension grows in Taem with the Order’s water rationing and fear of an Expat attack, Frank’s plans to win the war accelerate with the creation of an army of deadly Forgeries more sophisticated and harder to detect. In this atmosphere intensity and suspense escalate as Gray, Blaine and Emma are captured, but in their struggle to escape their captors not only is a room filled with forgeries uncovered, but also an old friend with information that could turn the tide of the war.
Fast-paced as the action builds, the plot vibrates with emotion when Gray must deal with a painful life-and-death decision, Bree’s critically injured, and Harvey Muldoon explores a deadly solution to the problem of the Forgeries. Yet amid all the suffering and grief, there’s humor and romance as Bree's passion for Gray is revived as does Sammy's determination to win Emma's heart.
Breathing life and depth into the story are a cast of characters that continue to develop like brooding, angry and heartbroken Gray Weathersby who knows he must rise above his own pain and anxiety to break Frank’s stranglehold and have east and west merge. Dedicated, resourceful and brave, he is joined by Brianne (Bree) Nox who’s stubborn, pragmatic, smart and tough; cocky, arrogant and good-looking Sammy; and sweet, intelligent caregiver Emma who becomes pessimistic and vindictive after being hurt by an impossible decision.
With twists near the end you don’t see coming, “Forged” is an intriguing and gripping ending to a captivating trilogy.
Knowing the danger that threatens the rebels and their Expat allies, determined to topple the Franconian Order and stop of the killings that have decimated his family, Gray puts aside the pain of his loss joining forces with a friend thought dead to search for a fail-safe that may stop Frank and his army. But with danger increasing, risks will have to be taken that will entail further sacrifices if he’s to succeed.
As uncertainty and tension grows in Taem with the Order’s water rationing and fear of an Expat attack, Frank’s plans to win the war accelerate with the creation of an army of deadly Forgeries more sophisticated and harder to detect. In this atmosphere intensity and suspense escalate as Gray, Blaine and Emma are captured, but in their struggle to escape their captors not only is a room filled with forgeries uncovered, but also an old friend with information that could turn the tide of the war.
Fast-paced as the action builds, the plot vibrates with emotion when Gray must deal with a painful life-and-death decision, Bree’s critically injured, and Harvey Muldoon explores a deadly solution to the problem of the Forgeries. Yet amid all the suffering and grief, there’s humor and romance as Bree's passion for Gray is revived as does Sammy's determination to win Emma's heart.
Breathing life and depth into the story are a cast of characters that continue to develop like brooding, angry and heartbroken Gray Weathersby who knows he must rise above his own pain and anxiety to break Frank’s stranglehold and have east and west merge. Dedicated, resourceful and brave, he is joined by Brianne (Bree) Nox who’s stubborn, pragmatic, smart and tough; cocky, arrogant and good-looking Sammy; and sweet, intelligent caregiver Emma who becomes pessimistic and vindictive after being hurt by an impossible decision.
With twists near the end you don’t see coming, “Forged” is an intriguing and gripping ending to a captivating trilogy.
August 12, 2018
Nadešel čas k poslednímu rozhodnutí…
Gray Weathersby a jeho skupina rebelů chce s řádem Franconianů skončit co možná nejrychleji. Ale možná už na vše může být pozdě. Řád se svému cíli přiblížil víc, než je zdrávo – jejich armáda se nebezpečně rychle rozšiiřuje o sofistikovanější a smrtelnější vojáky.
Teď se sice rebelové spojily s dávnými nepřáteli, ale když nemůžete věřit ani známým tvářím, musí se pohybovat ještě opatrněji, pokud chce vůbec přežít. Možný úspěch je na dosah ruky…
Konečně mám za sebou celou sérii a musím říct, že takovýhle vývoj jsem opravdu nečekala. I v posledním díle se toho stalo tolik, že jsem místy nestíhala, co všechno se to vlastně děje a kdo všechno už umřel. A že jich teda zavřalo docela dost. Až jsem byla v šoku.
Stále pro mě ale zůstává největší hrdinkou celé série Bree, která dostala tolikrát takovou nakládačku, že jsem nevěděla, jestli ještě vůbec vydrží nebo se na další stránce dozvím, že umřela. A z větší části to bylo hlavně kvůli zbrklému a hloupému Grayovi. Jeho myšlenkové pochody jsem často nechápala ani za mák.
Taken není špatná série, ale je zbytečně překombinovaná. Problém je v tom, že si autorka přála napsat bombastickou dystopickou sérii s neohroženými hrdiny, co se vrhají do všech akcí po hlavě, aniž by se jim něco vážnějšího stalo… nebo respektive přežijí téměř vše, co by ani nemělo být možné zvládnout. Vzhledem k tomu, že je to série pro dospívající, je logické, že hlavní lapálie budou zažívat zrovna oni, přesto se mi nechce věřit, že by dospělí většiinu času stál spíš opodál a byly občas neskutešně laxní.
Celkově vzato se prostě dala série napsat líp, pečlivěji, možná i na větší počet dílů, aby se vše nezdálo tak strašně unáhlené. Rozhodně dávám ovšem palec nahoru za celkový nápad a zápletku, i když si zasloužila více rozvést. Jsem zvědavá na další autorčiny knihy.
----------Reakce po dočtení knihy----------
Nooo... čekala jsem to lepší.
Gray Weathersby a jeho skupina rebelů chce s řádem Franconianů skončit co možná nejrychleji. Ale možná už na vše může být pozdě. Řád se svému cíli přiblížil víc, než je zdrávo – jejich armáda se nebezpečně rychle rozšiiřuje o sofistikovanější a smrtelnější vojáky.
Teď se sice rebelové spojily s dávnými nepřáteli, ale když nemůžete věřit ani známým tvářím, musí se pohybovat ještě opatrněji, pokud chce vůbec přežít. Možný úspěch je na dosah ruky…
Konečně mám za sebou celou sérii a musím říct, že takovýhle vývoj jsem opravdu nečekala. I v posledním díle se toho stalo tolik, že jsem místy nestíhala, co všechno se to vlastně děje a kdo všechno už umřel. A že jich teda zavřalo docela dost. Až jsem byla v šoku.
Stále pro mě ale zůstává největší hrdinkou celé série Bree, která dostala tolikrát takovou nakládačku, že jsem nevěděla, jestli ještě vůbec vydrží nebo se na další stránce dozvím, že umřela. A z větší části to bylo hlavně kvůli zbrklému a hloupému Grayovi. Jeho myšlenkové pochody jsem často nechápala ani za mák.
Taken není špatná série, ale je zbytečně překombinovaná. Problém je v tom, že si autorka přála napsat bombastickou dystopickou sérii s neohroženými hrdiny, co se vrhají do všech akcí po hlavě, aniž by se jim něco vážnějšího stalo… nebo respektive přežijí téměř vše, co by ani nemělo být možné zvládnout. Vzhledem k tomu, že je to série pro dospívající, je logické, že hlavní lapálie budou zažívat zrovna oni, přesto se mi nechce věřit, že by dospělí většiinu času stál spíš opodál a byly občas neskutešně laxní.
Celkově vzato se prostě dala série napsat líp, pečlivěji, možná i na větší počet dílů, aby se vše nezdálo tak strašně unáhlené. Rozhodně dávám ovšem palec nahoru za celkový nápad a zápletku, i když si zasloužila více rozvést. Jsem zvědavá na další autorčiny knihy.
----------Reakce po dočtení knihy----------
Nooo... čekala jsem to lepší.
November 6, 2018
My goodness did this series improve.
I highly disliked the first book as it was really predictable and the characters were really shallow. The second book was much better, and I actually really liked it, the characters were starting to develop(like a lot) and I was really in to the whole plot and ideas. (Not to mention I was seriously shipping a certain two people).
But man did this third book blow me out of the park(that sounded dumb)! One, the characters were SO awesome and deep. Two, the plot was full of twists and turns and moments that made me hold my breath or gasp with fear. Three, the couples were so cute, and there were quite a few "yes"es and "no!"s Four, it was completely not predictable, and I loved it! And five, IT MADE ME CRY. That just goes to show ya how far the series improved. From being highly obvious and boring to literally making me cry with the intense emotions and plot twists the story brought me through.
Wow. WOW did I love this last book. I will defiantly be reading it again in the future. Wow.
I would probably rate the series as a whole as 4 stars, because the last two books were highly enjoyable. So, I would defiantly recommend the series to a friend. I wish you could just skip the first book, but unfortunately the rest of the series would make no sense, as that first book really lays a basis for the rest of the story. Once you get over the poor writing of the first book, the rest of the series is really good.
I am so glad I continued reading the series after Taken's rocky start, because I fell in love with all the characters (so much so that I cried) and think that it had a really strong finale.
Way to go Erin Bowman, you didn't fail. Ok, you did good.
I highly disliked the first book as it was really predictable and the characters were really shallow. The second book was much better, and I actually really liked it, the characters were starting to develop(like a lot) and I was really in to the whole plot and ideas. (Not to mention I was seriously shipping a certain two people).
But man did this third book blow me out of the park(that sounded dumb)! One, the characters were SO awesome and deep. Two, the plot was full of twists and turns and moments that made me hold my breath or gasp with fear. Three, the couples were so cute, and there were quite a few "yes"es and "no!"s Four, it was completely not predictable, and I loved it! And five, IT MADE ME CRY. That just goes to show ya how far the series improved. From being highly obvious and boring to literally making me cry with the intense emotions and plot twists the story brought me through.
Wow. WOW did I love this last book. I will defiantly be reading it again in the future. Wow.
I would probably rate the series as a whole as 4 stars, because the last two books were highly enjoyable. So, I would defiantly recommend the series to a friend. I wish you could just skip the first book, but unfortunately the rest of the series would make no sense, as that first book really lays a basis for the rest of the story. Once you get over the poor writing of the first book, the rest of the series is really good.
I am so glad I continued reading the series after Taken's rocky start, because I fell in love with all the characters (so much so that I cried) and think that it had a really strong finale.
Way to go Erin Bowman, you didn't fail. Ok, you did good.
July 24, 2017
5/5 no complaints (and no spoilers in this review!)
This entire trilogy is an example of a dystopian series done right. In a market that's been recently swamped with "teen hero kills the oppressive government" because Hunger Games worked so well, The Taken trilogy just takes the typical oppressive system-lovetriangle-rebellion formula and splats it on the wall.
All of the characters, both good and bad, have believable faults, and they don't just magically get over them.
The bad guys arent just evil for the sake of being evil, either. Heck, they're only bad in execution of their actually well-meaning ideals.
This series is a dystopian one that lacks mary-sues, know-everythings, terrible formulaic outcomes, and plot armor.
Seriously, not for the faint of heart. One scene in this book kept me up all night.
I had love-hate relationships with everyone in all the best ways. No deaths felt meaningless and they all carried a significant weight to them that impacted the story down the line.
This was also one of the few trilogies where the first one is the best. They're all amazing, but they keep getting better.
Cheers, Erin. You've done a good thing here.
This entire trilogy is an example of a dystopian series done right. In a market that's been recently swamped with "teen hero kills the oppressive government" because Hunger Games worked so well, The Taken trilogy just takes the typical oppressive system-lovetriangle-rebellion formula and splats it on the wall.
All of the characters, both good and bad, have believable faults, and they don't just magically get over them.
The bad guys arent just evil for the sake of being evil, either. Heck, they're only bad in execution of their actually well-meaning ideals.
This series is a dystopian one that lacks mary-sues, know-everythings, terrible formulaic outcomes, and plot armor.
Seriously, not for the faint of heart. One scene in this book kept me up all night.
I had love-hate relationships with everyone in all the best ways. No deaths felt meaningless and they all carried a significant weight to them that impacted the story down the line.
This was also one of the few trilogies where the first one is the best. They're all amazing, but they keep getting better.
Cheers, Erin. You've done a good thing here.
June 7, 2025
1.5 stars
June 8, 2015
Ahhhhhh Forged! Where do I even begin? This book was great. It had great action, great characters, a great way to end off the trilogy, and brought back so much nostalgia. I loved it and already miss this trilogy. Seriously, I was so sad to get to the last 30 pages. It's just, I'm not ready to leave yet. Believe it or not, I almost resorted to fan fiction. So with that, if you want a great dystopian trilogy to marathon, definitely pick this one up.
Since this book is a sequel, I recognized a majority of the characters. There were a handful of new characters introduced though. What is really sad is that the last book I read from the trilogy was about 7 months ago and I couldn't not remember half the re-occurring characters. Grey, our protagonist, has grown so much from when he was still living in Claysoot. He has turned into a fighter, someone who values life much more, and less vulnerable. He has dealed with loss, pain, betrayal, and just so much more that has really shaped him into the person he is now. The character development he went through since Taken is so significant, this is an example of what character development is supposed to look like.
The amount of action that took place was entertaining and heart breaking. What dystopian novel ends without agonizing deaths!? (Not this one, in case you are wondering) Forged starts off with Grey already complaining about the lack of action going on. Within the first three chapters, everyone is already out on an adventure! As the book progresses the action and adventures get so interesting. Erin's writing just gets better and better. By the time the climatic part came, I was literally sitting on the edge of my seat because of how engaged I was into the book. Hah, you think Erin can't surprise you enough?
I finished reading the book and all I couldn't think was "Was I really that stupid enough to think that once I reached the climax, the surprises would stop?" I never got bored with this book because there was always something to want to know more about. That's what kept me reading and continue to be thinking about Forged after I finished it. Plot and action was great, just great. The ending was also great too! Endings of series are normally very bittersweet and this one was definitely one of them. It wrapped up the trilogy greatly and left no loose ends. (Except I still had withdrawals...) So going to miss reading this trilogy.
I have this book 5 stars because I loved everything about it. The plot, action, characters, everything.
Full review: http://next-page-please.blogspot.com/...
Since this book is a sequel, I recognized a majority of the characters. There were a handful of new characters introduced though. What is really sad is that the last book I read from the trilogy was about 7 months ago and I couldn't not remember half the re-occurring characters. Grey, our protagonist, has grown so much from when he was still living in Claysoot. He has turned into a fighter, someone who values life much more, and less vulnerable. He has dealed with loss, pain, betrayal, and just so much more that has really shaped him into the person he is now. The character development he went through since Taken is so significant, this is an example of what character development is supposed to look like.
The amount of action that took place was entertaining and heart breaking. What dystopian novel ends without agonizing deaths!? (Not this one, in case you are wondering) Forged starts off with Grey already complaining about the lack of action going on. Within the first three chapters, everyone is already out on an adventure! As the book progresses the action and adventures get so interesting. Erin's writing just gets better and better. By the time the climatic part came, I was literally sitting on the edge of my seat because of how engaged I was into the book. Hah, you think Erin can't surprise you enough?
I finished reading the book and all I couldn't think was "Was I really that stupid enough to think that once I reached the climax, the surprises would stop?" I never got bored with this book because there was always something to want to know more about. That's what kept me reading and continue to be thinking about Forged after I finished it. Plot and action was great, just great. The ending was also great too! Endings of series are normally very bittersweet and this one was definitely one of them. It wrapped up the trilogy greatly and left no loose ends. (Except I still had withdrawals...) So going to miss reading this trilogy.
I have this book 5 stars because I loved everything about it. The plot, action, characters, everything.
Full review: http://next-page-please.blogspot.com/...
August 15, 2015
Forged is the last book in the Taken trilogy and it did not disappoint. I enjoyed reading it as much as the previous books, probably even more. It's a fast-paced, action-packed novel that brings a great conclusion to Gray and his friends' story. It's also filled with suspense, romance, and revelations that will shock you. I guess the only thing that made me sad and heartbroken about this book is the character deaths. Sadly, some of the characters that I was rooting to survive didn't make it to the end. =(
Gray is still the stubborn ass that I read from the previous books, but I can say that he has definitely grown more mature throughout the series. The hardships and challenges that he faced in this book are twice as hard as the ones that he faced previously, and I admire him for staying strong throughout those times.
As for the other characters, Bree is still the amazing and strong heroine from before, and I liked how she showed a bit of her vulnerable side in this book. Sammy is one of my favorite characters in this book, and I loved the interactions between him and Gray. They're definitely one of the best brOTPs I've read so far. Blaine, Clipper, and Emma (the real Emma, not the Forgery Emma from Frozen) also play major roles that gave a huge impact to the story's direction. A certain character from the first book also makes a comeback in this book and I myself was quite surprised when this character appeared in the story.
I enjoyed the romance in the story, and like I said in my review of Frozen, Gray has finally come into terms with who he really loves and I'm glad that he stuck with his choice, so there really isn't any love triangle in this book. However, he did have to work hard to earn back the trust of the girl he loves and once that was done, the sparks went flying between Gray and the love of his life.
As for the ending, I am very satisfied at how things were tied up, although it's also kinda sad because like I said before, some characters didn't make it to the end. But still, I think the ending was just right to wrap up Gray and his friends' story.
Overall, Forged was great and I loved it. I'll definitely miss Gray, Bree, Sammy, Emma, Blaine, Clipper, etc. now that their story has come to an end. If you're looking for a series that is filled with action, adventure, plot twists, and realistic relationships, then I highly recommend reading this series.
Gray is still the stubborn ass that I read from the previous books, but I can say that he has definitely grown more mature throughout the series. The hardships and challenges that he faced in this book are twice as hard as the ones that he faced previously, and I admire him for staying strong throughout those times.
As for the other characters, Bree is still the amazing and strong heroine from before, and I liked how she showed a bit of her vulnerable side in this book. Sammy is one of my favorite characters in this book, and I loved the interactions between him and Gray. They're definitely one of the best brOTPs I've read so far. Blaine, Clipper, and Emma (the real Emma, not the Forgery Emma from Frozen) also play major roles that gave a huge impact to the story's direction. A certain character from the first book also makes a comeback in this book and I myself was quite surprised when this character appeared in the story.
I enjoyed the romance in the story, and like I said in my review of Frozen, Gray has finally come into terms with who he really loves and I'm glad that he stuck with his choice, so there really isn't any love triangle in this book. However, he did have to work hard to earn back the trust of the girl he loves and once that was done, the sparks went flying between Gray and the love of his life.
As for the ending, I am very satisfied at how things were tied up, although it's also kinda sad because like I said before, some characters didn't make it to the end. But still, I think the ending was just right to wrap up Gray and his friends' story.
Overall, Forged was great and I loved it. I'll definitely miss Gray, Bree, Sammy, Emma, Blaine, Clipper, etc. now that their story has come to an end. If you're looking for a series that is filled with action, adventure, plot twists, and realistic relationships, then I highly recommend reading this series.
April 29, 2015
I've been bad about keeping up with trilogies and series lately. I've started so many over the last few years, but most have fallen off my radar -- even those whose first books I truly enjoyed. The Taken trilogy is one that's held my interest since its first book released in 2013, though, and that's because of its characters. Don't get me wrong -- the world-building is fantastic, the plot is unique, and the pacing is swift, but it's Gray, Bree, Clipper, Emma, Sammy, and Blaine who've kept me committed. Bree, especially, continues to blow me away with her awesomeness. Though she's not the lead character, she's a standout thanks to her independence and toughness and vigor, and she lends a sense of humanity (and humility) to protagonist Gray. Author Erin Bowman concludes her debut series in a way that feels real and true and courageous and, though there were some genuinely heartbreaking moments, I closed this novel feeling hopeful and content. Recommend!
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