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The Endure #2
Nemesis
Tech genius Daniel Brewer isn't the only one with a romantic history. Already weighed down with the impossible problem of the Maven Initiative's plans for world domination and disaster, Dr. Lydia Ashley is finding it more and more difficult to keep things in balance. With an old flame reappearing and the schemes of a vindictive new rival thrown into the mix, her hopes for a life with Daniel may be on the brink of annihilation.
When Lydia's past is brought to light, one big secret could destroy everything.
When Lydia's past is brought to light, one big secret could destroy everything.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 25, 2013
3 people are currently reading
42 people want to read
About the author
S.A. Huchton
14 books20 followersTitles published as S.A. Huchton contain material only suitable for adults.
Titles published as Starla Huchton are suitable for ages 13 and up.
Titles published as Starla Huchton are suitable for ages 13 and up.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
September 22, 2013
Starla steps up the game here! The story, how it relates so closely with our characters. The Romance shakiness with the crazy hardly home work schedules and the deepening of the conspiracy and threats. Starla has me believing the happenings and falling for the heartaches and worries the couple goes through, making me feel with them through the stress on many levels.
***FULL REVIEW***
Lydia has been on Endure for three months total. One month working endlessly to find a cure for a deadly bacteria, yet not knowing which one of four to focus on, and making no headway. Daniel's been working long days as well, searching for the bad guys to keep Lydia safe. Daniel's exhausted, but he can't stop until Tanya Burkovitz and Bernard Hudson are caught. For Lydia's safety. And his, but mainly Lydia's. Lydia knows Daniel's reasons for not focusing on his well being - her - but she's starting to get frustrated with his lack of thought for himself along with both working so hard and lacking in time together.
Dr. Anna Corvis arrived two weeks ago, the Epilogue of Maven. Lydia's first meeting...not so hot. But the beautiful Dr. Corvis has the hots for someone who is already spoken for and she doesn't take the hint. Dr Corvis's knowledge is very much needed on who and what they are looking for and where to focus, but she is not outwardly sharing with Lydia. She enjoys making things difficult for Lydia.
Suspicions rise as to if there could be someone higher up on Endure that is involved with SeaCorp and the deadly bacteria. Who could that person be and could it cause a rift between Daniel and his heart's love, Lydia? Who can they trust now?
The ends are coming frayed and they aren't seeing each other as much as they'd like, and the holidays are coming. Then when Lydia's past trickles to the surface, will Lydia and Daniel survive the new tidal wave?
We get more description of Endure as a structure.
Nemesis is created and we get to business being on the offensive. Nemesis is a special program of elite and a few well trusted employees to get to the top secret searches. In this way we meet new people. The best!
The dual POV of Lydia and Daniel gives you the view of both to love deeply, once again. I like they are a solid couple, yes every couple has tiffs, but they don't give up on love. I love reading books of a strong couple that communicates, even when limited on private time. They are great at this! Um...there is troubles though. *bites nails*
Oh goodness! Daniel won my heart. He has learned quickly the right words and moves. Although, the history of a ladies man helps, he is censer deep in his heart about it. And I BELIEVE HIM!! There...is a potential third wheel, but Lydia knows what, er who, she wants and makes it clear to all. However, life's past choices might put a wedge in here. Nick...HOT! TALL! S-a-weet man! I'd take him and run any day! LOL!
We learn a few things of Daniel's past, but Lydia... Oh Lydia. Talk about a slap from the past. And the effects on the here and now. Wow. I feel for her! But Lydia tries to carry on for the sake of those who could be affected by the danger she's found being created. Lydia is brilliant, but she knows when she's in to deep. Digging into areas she's not worked or schooled on, she knows she needs help. I like that she doesn't sink, she asks for a life preserver and takes the initiative to find and ask the right people for help. Team work is a key.
There is one thing in Romance reads that bothers me, the sex and no worries that could go with it. I've learned to try to shut that thinking off, unless explained. In Nemesis, it's explained! A solution or reason. Awesome! Works into the plot and story and Romance love PERFECTLY!!! It was a big WHAT!?! Moment for me. You'll love this moment too!
Starla steps up the game here! The story, how it relates so closely with our characters. The Romance shakiness with the crazy hardly home work schedules and the deepening of the conspiracy and threats. Starla has me believing the happenings and falling for the heartaches and worries the couple goes through, making me feel with them through the stress on many levels.
There is a bit of a need at the end of this one. You will want book 3, Progeny, right away.
***FULL REVIEW***
Lydia has been on Endure for three months total. One month working endlessly to find a cure for a deadly bacteria, yet not knowing which one of four to focus on, and making no headway. Daniel's been working long days as well, searching for the bad guys to keep Lydia safe. Daniel's exhausted, but he can't stop until Tanya Burkovitz and Bernard Hudson are caught. For Lydia's safety. And his, but mainly Lydia's. Lydia knows Daniel's reasons for not focusing on his well being - her - but she's starting to get frustrated with his lack of thought for himself along with both working so hard and lacking in time together.
Dr. Anna Corvis arrived two weeks ago, the Epilogue of Maven. Lydia's first meeting...not so hot. But the beautiful Dr. Corvis has the hots for someone who is already spoken for and she doesn't take the hint. Dr Corvis's knowledge is very much needed on who and what they are looking for and where to focus, but she is not outwardly sharing with Lydia. She enjoys making things difficult for Lydia.
Suspicions rise as to if there could be someone higher up on Endure that is involved with SeaCorp and the deadly bacteria. Who could that person be and could it cause a rift between Daniel and his heart's love, Lydia? Who can they trust now?
The ends are coming frayed and they aren't seeing each other as much as they'd like, and the holidays are coming. Then when Lydia's past trickles to the surface, will Lydia and Daniel survive the new tidal wave?
We get more description of Endure as a structure.
Nemesis is created and we get to business being on the offensive. Nemesis is a special program of elite and a few well trusted employees to get to the top secret searches. In this way we meet new people. The best!
The dual POV of Lydia and Daniel gives you the view of both to love deeply, once again. I like they are a solid couple, yes every couple has tiffs, but they don't give up on love. I love reading books of a strong couple that communicates, even when limited on private time. They are great at this! Um...there is troubles though. *bites nails*
Oh goodness! Daniel won my heart. He has learned quickly the right words and moves. Although, the history of a ladies man helps, he is censer deep in his heart about it. And I BELIEVE HIM!! There...is a potential third wheel, but Lydia knows what, er who, she wants and makes it clear to all. However, life's past choices might put a wedge in here. Nick...HOT! TALL! S-a-weet man! I'd take him and run any day! LOL!
We learn a few things of Daniel's past, but Lydia... Oh Lydia. Talk about a slap from the past. And the effects on the here and now. Wow. I feel for her! But Lydia tries to carry on for the sake of those who could be affected by the danger she's found being created. Lydia is brilliant, but she knows when she's in to deep. Digging into areas she's not worked or schooled on, she knows she needs help. I like that she doesn't sink, she asks for a life preserver and takes the initiative to find and ask the right people for help. Team work is a key.
There is one thing in Romance reads that bothers me, the sex and no worries that could go with it. I've learned to try to shut that thinking off, unless explained. In Nemesis, it's explained! A solution or reason. Awesome! Works into the plot and story and Romance love PERFECTLY!!! It was a big WHAT!?! Moment for me. You'll love this moment too!
Starla steps up the game here! The story, how it relates so closely with our characters. The Romance shakiness with the crazy hardly home work schedules and the deepening of the conspiracy and threats. Starla has me believing the happenings and falling for the heartaches and worries the couple goes through, making me feel with them through the stress on many levels.
There is a bit of a need at the end of this one. You will want book 3, Progeny, right away.
September 2, 2013
Aw man. I READ THIS TOO FAST! And now it's over :( Needless to say, I enjoyed every minute of this book until the last chapter when all my dreams were crushed and I nearly cried. But in a good way. Hutchon did a fantastic job with this follow-up to MAVEN! She threw in some twists I had no idea were coming, and I was thoroughly engrossed in the mystery swirling around everyone on Endure. Lydia and Daniel were still hot and worth rooting for even if I wanted to slap them both for being stupid sometimes (understandable given their circumstances). All in all, another fabulous read! Loved it.
September 20, 2013
Blog tour on my blog September 21th
Review + Except + Giveaway
http://pleaseanotherbook.tumblr.com/p...
“Nemesi” è il secondo volume della serie e fin da subito ero certa e convinta che sarebbe entrato nel mio cuore, come il primo. Sapete quando siete sicuri di una certa cosa? Beh io lo ero con questo libro e vi posso assicurare che non sono rimasta delusa, anzi mi sono convinta ancora di più della perfezione di questa serie. Un must-read a tutto campo. Non solo la storia non perde di credibilità ma diventa ancora più misteriosa e affascinante. Un successo su tutta la linea.
Il genio dei computer Daniel Brewer non è il solo con un passato romantico alle spalle. Già aggravata dal problema quasi impossibile del piano “Maven Initiative” per la dominazione e la distruzione del mondo, Dr. Lydia Ashley trova sempre più difficile per tenere le cose in equilibrio. Con una vecchia fiamma che riappare e lo schema di vendetta di una nuova rivale gettati nel mezzo, le sue speranze per una vita con Daniel potrebbero essere sull’orlo della distruzione. Quando il passato di Lydia viene portato alla luce, un grande segreto potrebbe distruggere tutto.
Devo dire di essere particolarmente fortunata, sia per essere una book blogger che per avere l’opportunità di partecipare a Blog Tour perché ho modo di scoprire autori che altrimenti sarebbero rimasti nel mare degli autori che si autopubblicano o vengono pubblicati. E vi assicuro che è un vasto mare. E vi posso assicurare che la Huchton è una di questi. Sono veramente molto felice di aver avuto modo di leggere i suoi capolavori, perché davvero ne sono diventata una fan scatenata. Pensavo che dopo “Maven” non potesse fare di meglio e invece mi sono dovuta ricredere, “Nemesi” è anche meglio. La tecnica narrativa è la stessa, l’alternanza dei due punti di vista dei protagonisti, in terza persona, anche se l’attenzione si sposta un po’ più su Daniel. Nel primo libro ci si concentrava un po’ più sull’aspetto romantico della loro relazione, nel secondo questo è ancora ben presente, ma le scoperte relative alla vicenda e al mistero che attraversa tutta la serie e che minaccia dall’interno tutta la Endure la sorpassano. O meglio la complicano notevolmente. Non c’è pace né per Daniel né per Lydia. Entrambi hanno fatto dei grossi passi in avanti sia nella loro relazione, che per sé stessi, passi che li hanno portati a crescere, a maturare, ad essere più sicuri nelle loro scarpe. Se Lydia si è lasciata andare a rapporti personali più solidi e sicuri con gli altri membri dell’equipaggio, creando un gruppo di amici affiatati che la sostengono, con cui ridere e alleviare la pressione esercitata dalle ricerche lunghe ed estenuanti. Daniel è diventato un giovane uomo attento e generoso, capace di sacrificare il suo tempo e il suo sonno per una causa più grande di lui. Persi i suoi comportamenti infantili, la sicurezza di Lydia vengono prima di tutto per lui ed è capace di sacrificare la sua vita pur di tenere al sicuro quella della donna che ama e con la quale vuol passare il resto della sua vita. Lydia è riuscita a portare alla luce gli aspetti migliori del suo carattere, ma a volte si lascia prendere la mano dalla gelosia e dall’insicurezza e cede a scoppi di ira ingiustificati. Mentre si entra nel pieno della storia, e veniamo a conoscenza di sempre più dettagli sulla questione della “Maven iniziative” pure molte domande restano senza risposta. Il mistero si infittisce e mentre troviamo alcuni pezzi del puzzle, questo si ingrandisce sempre più fino a sommergere tutti i membri della squadra che ci lavorano. Nuove alleanze vengono formate e diventa difficile capire di chi ci si può fidare. Lydia deve fare i conti con una scelta del suo passato che ha conseguenze disastrose per il presente, Daniel deve capire che cosa vuole e trovare un modo per non perdere Lydia. Tutto sembra congeniato per dividerli e innescare zizzania tra i membri della squadra. Ogni volta che si trova un nuovo indizio questo diventa interpretabile in modi diversi e perde di consistenza. Mentre i due sono messi alla prova nuovi personaggi entrano in scena a partire da Dr Gorgeous, Nick Miller, un genetista arrivato dritto dal passato di Lydia che ha ancora dei sentimenti per lei, ma che risulta fondamentale per continuare gli esperimenti sui batteri, e la Dott.ssa Anna Corvis, Ds Harpy, che ce la metterà tutta per esasperare e mandare in manicomio la nostra Lydia e che avrà delle mire su Daniel, pure indifferente a tutto. Il set up della storia resta quello del primo volume, dove scienza e sentimenti si uniscono per creare una storia con i fiocchi capace di incantare il lettore. Gli esperimenti e la tecnologia citati sono sempre più complicati, ma allo stesso tempo affascianti. Vabbè sarà che sono un ingegnere elettronico, ma queste cose mi affascinano parecchio. La parte sci-fi risulta incredibilmente ben congeniata ed interessante. Alla Endure viene aggiunta una nuova parte, che assumerà un significato nella storia, un po’ come il pod dei delfini del primo libro. Insomma anche la parte più tenera e quella più passionale della storia tra i due è assolutamente imperdibile.
Il particolare da non dimenticare? Un tubetto di lip gloss e una felpa nera…
Ben scritto, un mix esplosivo tra romance e sci-fi con dei protagonisti interessanti e ben caratterizzati, “Nemesi” e “The Endure series” deve entrare nella vostra lista delle cose da leggere. Lo dico poche volte, ma guys questi libri sono strepitosi, non lasciateveli scappare.
Io intanto aspetto buona buona “Progeny”, il terzo volume della serie, che dovrebbe uscire a novembre, da come la Huchton mi ha scritto ieri su Twitter. Non vedo l’ora di metterci le mani sopra.
Buona lettura guys!
Ringrazio immensamente Tess di My pathway to books e Starla Huchton per avermi concesso la straordinaria opportunità di leggere questa serie in esclusiva e di partecipare al Blog Tour. Grazie immensamente!
Review + Except + Giveaway
http://pleaseanotherbook.tumblr.com/p...
“Nemesi” è il secondo volume della serie e fin da subito ero certa e convinta che sarebbe entrato nel mio cuore, come il primo. Sapete quando siete sicuri di una certa cosa? Beh io lo ero con questo libro e vi posso assicurare che non sono rimasta delusa, anzi mi sono convinta ancora di più della perfezione di questa serie. Un must-read a tutto campo. Non solo la storia non perde di credibilità ma diventa ancora più misteriosa e affascinante. Un successo su tutta la linea.
Il genio dei computer Daniel Brewer non è il solo con un passato romantico alle spalle. Già aggravata dal problema quasi impossibile del piano “Maven Initiative” per la dominazione e la distruzione del mondo, Dr. Lydia Ashley trova sempre più difficile per tenere le cose in equilibrio. Con una vecchia fiamma che riappare e lo schema di vendetta di una nuova rivale gettati nel mezzo, le sue speranze per una vita con Daniel potrebbero essere sull’orlo della distruzione. Quando il passato di Lydia viene portato alla luce, un grande segreto potrebbe distruggere tutto.
Devo dire di essere particolarmente fortunata, sia per essere una book blogger che per avere l’opportunità di partecipare a Blog Tour perché ho modo di scoprire autori che altrimenti sarebbero rimasti nel mare degli autori che si autopubblicano o vengono pubblicati. E vi assicuro che è un vasto mare. E vi posso assicurare che la Huchton è una di questi. Sono veramente molto felice di aver avuto modo di leggere i suoi capolavori, perché davvero ne sono diventata una fan scatenata. Pensavo che dopo “Maven” non potesse fare di meglio e invece mi sono dovuta ricredere, “Nemesi” è anche meglio. La tecnica narrativa è la stessa, l’alternanza dei due punti di vista dei protagonisti, in terza persona, anche se l’attenzione si sposta un po’ più su Daniel. Nel primo libro ci si concentrava un po’ più sull’aspetto romantico della loro relazione, nel secondo questo è ancora ben presente, ma le scoperte relative alla vicenda e al mistero che attraversa tutta la serie e che minaccia dall’interno tutta la Endure la sorpassano. O meglio la complicano notevolmente. Non c’è pace né per Daniel né per Lydia. Entrambi hanno fatto dei grossi passi in avanti sia nella loro relazione, che per sé stessi, passi che li hanno portati a crescere, a maturare, ad essere più sicuri nelle loro scarpe. Se Lydia si è lasciata andare a rapporti personali più solidi e sicuri con gli altri membri dell’equipaggio, creando un gruppo di amici affiatati che la sostengono, con cui ridere e alleviare la pressione esercitata dalle ricerche lunghe ed estenuanti. Daniel è diventato un giovane uomo attento e generoso, capace di sacrificare il suo tempo e il suo sonno per una causa più grande di lui. Persi i suoi comportamenti infantili, la sicurezza di Lydia vengono prima di tutto per lui ed è capace di sacrificare la sua vita pur di tenere al sicuro quella della donna che ama e con la quale vuol passare il resto della sua vita. Lydia è riuscita a portare alla luce gli aspetti migliori del suo carattere, ma a volte si lascia prendere la mano dalla gelosia e dall’insicurezza e cede a scoppi di ira ingiustificati. Mentre si entra nel pieno della storia, e veniamo a conoscenza di sempre più dettagli sulla questione della “Maven iniziative” pure molte domande restano senza risposta. Il mistero si infittisce e mentre troviamo alcuni pezzi del puzzle, questo si ingrandisce sempre più fino a sommergere tutti i membri della squadra che ci lavorano. Nuove alleanze vengono formate e diventa difficile capire di chi ci si può fidare. Lydia deve fare i conti con una scelta del suo passato che ha conseguenze disastrose per il presente, Daniel deve capire che cosa vuole e trovare un modo per non perdere Lydia. Tutto sembra congeniato per dividerli e innescare zizzania tra i membri della squadra. Ogni volta che si trova un nuovo indizio questo diventa interpretabile in modi diversi e perde di consistenza. Mentre i due sono messi alla prova nuovi personaggi entrano in scena a partire da Dr Gorgeous, Nick Miller, un genetista arrivato dritto dal passato di Lydia che ha ancora dei sentimenti per lei, ma che risulta fondamentale per continuare gli esperimenti sui batteri, e la Dott.ssa Anna Corvis, Ds Harpy, che ce la metterà tutta per esasperare e mandare in manicomio la nostra Lydia e che avrà delle mire su Daniel, pure indifferente a tutto. Il set up della storia resta quello del primo volume, dove scienza e sentimenti si uniscono per creare una storia con i fiocchi capace di incantare il lettore. Gli esperimenti e la tecnologia citati sono sempre più complicati, ma allo stesso tempo affascianti. Vabbè sarà che sono un ingegnere elettronico, ma queste cose mi affascinano parecchio. La parte sci-fi risulta incredibilmente ben congeniata ed interessante. Alla Endure viene aggiunta una nuova parte, che assumerà un significato nella storia, un po’ come il pod dei delfini del primo libro. Insomma anche la parte più tenera e quella più passionale della storia tra i due è assolutamente imperdibile.
Il particolare da non dimenticare? Un tubetto di lip gloss e una felpa nera…
Ben scritto, un mix esplosivo tra romance e sci-fi con dei protagonisti interessanti e ben caratterizzati, “Nemesi” e “The Endure series” deve entrare nella vostra lista delle cose da leggere. Lo dico poche volte, ma guys questi libri sono strepitosi, non lasciateveli scappare.
Io intanto aspetto buona buona “Progeny”, il terzo volume della serie, che dovrebbe uscire a novembre, da come la Huchton mi ha scritto ieri su Twitter. Non vedo l’ora di metterci le mani sopra.
Buona lettura guys!
Ringrazio immensamente Tess di My pathway to books e Starla Huchton per avermi concesso la straordinaria opportunità di leggere questa serie in esclusiva e di partecipare al Blog Tour. Grazie immensamente!
July 29, 2015
TracingTheStars.com was provided an ARC in exchange for an honest review and was subsequently blown away by the awesomeness of this book.
After reading and very much enjoying book 1 of the Endure series, Maven (4 Star review of Maven on TracingTheStars.com), I was really excited to receive an advanced review copy of the sequel, Nemesis. Within the first few chapters, I could already tell that S.A. Huchton had raised everything to a whole new level. I wasn’t ready to hand out the five-star rating quite yet, but by the last chapter, it was a no-brainer. Nemesis is intelligent, hard science fiction romance, where the science fiction of the story is just as important as the romantic elements.
I almost hesitate with calling it “hard” science fiction because I don’t want to chase away readers who prefer softer or speculative sci-fi. Although the science is instrumental to the plot and obviously well researched, it isn’t impossible to read or understand. I’m not a hard-science fan, normally. In fact, that was one of the problems I had with book 1, Maven. Where Maven struggled to incorporate all of the really great and well researched science fiction into biteable chunks for us softer-science folks, Nemesis succeeded in making me rethink my stance on hard sci-fi. Huchton made both the computer tech side of Daniel and the micro biology side of Lydia consumable, approachable and avoided using overly technical info-dumps.
Nemesis picks up the story of Dr. Daniel Brewer, computer/software engineering genius, and Dr. Lydia Ashley, marine/micro biology genius, as they continue to investigate the mystery surrounding the secret Maven project. The general plot line involves running secret investigations with a selected team on board the Endure, an undersea research facility, in an attempt to discover who is behind the Maven initiative. The Maven project was introduced in book 1 as a genetically engineered bacteria that could be used as a weapon with global consequences. Other familiar faces also make appearances, including Cordy and Tony.
New faces are also brought in that add both conflict to the plot and to the relationship development between Daniel and Lydia. Daniel and Lydia are struggling with having to divide their time between their normal Endure jobs and the secret research they are doing. This leaves little time for their relationship and they find themselves stumbling. The relationship conflicts deepen as two new characters are brought in – Dr. Anna Corvis who has an obvious interest Daniel while using her knowledge of the Maven project as bait, and Dr. Nick Miller who has a past with Lydia that she is unprepared to deal with.
Normally, these kinds of angst plots of old flames showing up or new pushy characters flaunting their drive to destroy the main characters’ relationship make me groan. When Huchton used them both at once, I had to bite my tongue. The way Huchton used these common plot devices, however, was as smart as her science fiction, and she mixed it with the time-strains already inflicting Lydia and Daniel. Facing these three complications on top of the ongoing Maven investigations resulted in realistic and believable reactions from both characters. Toss in the secret that comes to light about Lydia and I was applauding the angst.
Me, applauding angst. I do think a pig just flew by my window. Huchton masterfully crafted it in such a way that it worked without being annoying or over dramatic. I could understand where both Daniel and Lydia were coming from, and the angst became the honest ups and downs of a new relationship. Thank you, Huchton. Thank you.
Aside from Anna and Nick (love his character, by the way), a new addition to Daniel’s tech team is made. In my review of Maven, I mentioned that I was a bit miffed that the tech team was all male. In Nemesis, we get Brooke added to the team. She reminded me of a SYS Admin I used to work with, so it was a bit fun and I was glad for her addition.
The ending – it killed me and had me searching online for the release date of book 3. I have an idea of where Huchton is going to be headed with book 3 and Lydia’s character and I am dying to find out if I’m right.
The book is recommended for everyone who likes good, smart science fiction, a page-turning suspenseful plot and a believable, realistic relationship development between two people struggling to hold onto each other while pressure builds and presses in on them from all sides.
After reading and very much enjoying book 1 of the Endure series, Maven (4 Star review of Maven on TracingTheStars.com), I was really excited to receive an advanced review copy of the sequel, Nemesis. Within the first few chapters, I could already tell that S.A. Huchton had raised everything to a whole new level. I wasn’t ready to hand out the five-star rating quite yet, but by the last chapter, it was a no-brainer. Nemesis is intelligent, hard science fiction romance, where the science fiction of the story is just as important as the romantic elements.
I almost hesitate with calling it “hard” science fiction because I don’t want to chase away readers who prefer softer or speculative sci-fi. Although the science is instrumental to the plot and obviously well researched, it isn’t impossible to read or understand. I’m not a hard-science fan, normally. In fact, that was one of the problems I had with book 1, Maven. Where Maven struggled to incorporate all of the really great and well researched science fiction into biteable chunks for us softer-science folks, Nemesis succeeded in making me rethink my stance on hard sci-fi. Huchton made both the computer tech side of Daniel and the micro biology side of Lydia consumable, approachable and avoided using overly technical info-dumps.
Nemesis picks up the story of Dr. Daniel Brewer, computer/software engineering genius, and Dr. Lydia Ashley, marine/micro biology genius, as they continue to investigate the mystery surrounding the secret Maven project. The general plot line involves running secret investigations with a selected team on board the Endure, an undersea research facility, in an attempt to discover who is behind the Maven initiative. The Maven project was introduced in book 1 as a genetically engineered bacteria that could be used as a weapon with global consequences. Other familiar faces also make appearances, including Cordy and Tony.
New faces are also brought in that add both conflict to the plot and to the relationship development between Daniel and Lydia. Daniel and Lydia are struggling with having to divide their time between their normal Endure jobs and the secret research they are doing. This leaves little time for their relationship and they find themselves stumbling. The relationship conflicts deepen as two new characters are brought in – Dr. Anna Corvis who has an obvious interest Daniel while using her knowledge of the Maven project as bait, and Dr. Nick Miller who has a past with Lydia that she is unprepared to deal with.
Normally, these kinds of angst plots of old flames showing up or new pushy characters flaunting their drive to destroy the main characters’ relationship make me groan. When Huchton used them both at once, I had to bite my tongue. The way Huchton used these common plot devices, however, was as smart as her science fiction, and she mixed it with the time-strains already inflicting Lydia and Daniel. Facing these three complications on top of the ongoing Maven investigations resulted in realistic and believable reactions from both characters. Toss in the secret that comes to light about Lydia and I was applauding the angst.
Me, applauding angst. I do think a pig just flew by my window. Huchton masterfully crafted it in such a way that it worked without being annoying or over dramatic. I could understand where both Daniel and Lydia were coming from, and the angst became the honest ups and downs of a new relationship. Thank you, Huchton. Thank you.
Aside from Anna and Nick (love his character, by the way), a new addition to Daniel’s tech team is made. In my review of Maven, I mentioned that I was a bit miffed that the tech team was all male. In Nemesis, we get Brooke added to the team. She reminded me of a SYS Admin I used to work with, so it was a bit fun and I was glad for her addition.
The ending – it killed me and had me searching online for the release date of book 3. I have an idea of where Huchton is going to be headed with book 3 and Lydia’s character and I am dying to find out if I’m right.
The book is recommended for everyone who likes good, smart science fiction, a page-turning suspenseful plot and a believable, realistic relationship development between two people struggling to hold onto each other while pressure builds and presses in on them from all sides.
December 9, 2013
The end of Maven left us with so many questions. What exactly was the Maven Initiative up to? This burning question left Daniel and Lydia, with the aid of Captain Brewer and Dr. Gerardi, to implement a defensive plan. This plan came to be known as NEMESIS, a group of covert “investigators” aboard the Endure seeking to prevent or at least counteract the effects of the Maven initiatives disastrous plans.
From the very first pages Nemesis sucked me in. I have grown to not only love the characters aboard the Endure but also the mystery and sci-fi elements Huchton so masterfully crafts. I know sci-fi scares a lot of people but I have to say that at no time did I feel I couldn’t understand the scientific “jargon” thrown in. I think it takes someone really talented to not only research and make a scientific story believable, but to also make it understandable.
Although a highly qualified and genius team is assembled, Dr. Lydia Ashley is at a loss for how to deal with specific aspects of her research. Enter Dr. Nicholas “Nick” Miller. Or as Daniel refers to him, Dr. Gorgeous. Even though Nick presented as a potential threat to the newly blossoming romance between Daniel and Lydia, I never once disliked him. Nick is easy-going, kind, and although sometimes I bit too smug for his own good, he seems to be a genuinely good person. “Love-triangles” are by no means my ideal romantic situation but unlike so many the potential for this triangle’s manifestation didn’t burden the story. In fact, it added for some entertaining commentary and witty humor.
In addition to the complication of Dr. Miller, Dr. Corvis provides an even bigger issue. She’s venomous, conniving, and downright cruel. It’s apparent she seeks to not only destroy Lydia and Daniel’s relationship but also discredit Lydia professionally in the process. I loved to hate Dr. Corvis. She was absolutely vile and it would take a miracle for me to find her anything but.
Another point I would like to bring up is although Lydia and Daniel are both literal geniuses in their respective areas, their relationship knowledge is lacking and adds a level of frustration (and cuteness) that should be mentioned. There were times I wanted to slap some sense into the both of them, especially Lydia’s lack of disclosure about certain historical life events, and Daniel’s serious jealousy issues, but their love for each other pours off the pages without inducing a sugar-coma.
Overall, with new friends and foes added to the mix, Nemesis is a wild ride full of betrayal, heartache, and a few plot-bombs that had me furiously flipping through the pages. I am in love with this series and I’m glad (while also kicking myself) for waiting until Progeny came out to read this installment in the Endure Series.
From the very first pages Nemesis sucked me in. I have grown to not only love the characters aboard the Endure but also the mystery and sci-fi elements Huchton so masterfully crafts. I know sci-fi scares a lot of people but I have to say that at no time did I feel I couldn’t understand the scientific “jargon” thrown in. I think it takes someone really talented to not only research and make a scientific story believable, but to also make it understandable.
Although a highly qualified and genius team is assembled, Dr. Lydia Ashley is at a loss for how to deal with specific aspects of her research. Enter Dr. Nicholas “Nick” Miller. Or as Daniel refers to him, Dr. Gorgeous. Even though Nick presented as a potential threat to the newly blossoming romance between Daniel and Lydia, I never once disliked him. Nick is easy-going, kind, and although sometimes I bit too smug for his own good, he seems to be a genuinely good person. “Love-triangles” are by no means my ideal romantic situation but unlike so many the potential for this triangle’s manifestation didn’t burden the story. In fact, it added for some entertaining commentary and witty humor.
In addition to the complication of Dr. Miller, Dr. Corvis provides an even bigger issue. She’s venomous, conniving, and downright cruel. It’s apparent she seeks to not only destroy Lydia and Daniel’s relationship but also discredit Lydia professionally in the process. I loved to hate Dr. Corvis. She was absolutely vile and it would take a miracle for me to find her anything but.
Another point I would like to bring up is although Lydia and Daniel are both literal geniuses in their respective areas, their relationship knowledge is lacking and adds a level of frustration (and cuteness) that should be mentioned. There were times I wanted to slap some sense into the both of them, especially Lydia’s lack of disclosure about certain historical life events, and Daniel’s serious jealousy issues, but their love for each other pours off the pages without inducing a sugar-coma.
Overall, with new friends and foes added to the mix, Nemesis is a wild ride full of betrayal, heartache, and a few plot-bombs that had me furiously flipping through the pages. I am in love with this series and I’m glad (while also kicking myself) for waiting until Progeny came out to read this installment in the Endure Series.
July 21, 2015
“The last thing she needed or wanted was more complications in her life. And Nicholas Miller was one big ball of drama waiting to happen.” (Kindle Locations 1214-1216).
Nemesis picks up right where Maven left off, in the middle of a great conflict between the Maven Initiative (the bad guys) and those on the Endure wishing to combat the great evil that wants to unleash a deadly disease on humanity. Only, the Maven Initiative hasn’t set off the deadly bacteria, that even though they hold a kill switch, they have to develop a cure for the disease. They enlist Lydia for her Marine Biochemistry abilities and she works as a double agent, trying to both cure the disease and take down the Initiative. It isn’t until she stumbles on a large hole to the puzzle, that Lydia finds out she has been targeted by the Initiative longer than she expected.
Many new complications arise in this second book in the Endure series. We see a new love interest (old flame) and competition arrives for both Lydia and Daniel. The face of evil that is known as Dr. Burkovitz and the Maven Initiative reveals some surprising developments. The places they are willing to go in their evil plan knows no bounds and Lydia is caught up in the middle of it all.
Huchton really throws on the tension in this book. There are so many new complications and plot twists, but they all fit seamlessly together. Hints from book one and the beginning of book two come alive as their own sub-plots and intricacies.
The characters get more development and depth and we are introduced to the newest complications: Dr. Gorgeous (Nick Miller) and the Mistress of Sarcasm (Anna Corvis). These two characters inflict quite a bit of damage to Lydia and Daniel’s relationship, especially as the two don’t seem to be able to communicate all their feelings to each other. The Maven Initiative’s surprise throws another wrench into Lydia and Daniel’s relationship. Really, almost everything in this book tears at their relationship, threatening to come between the greatest love ever seen on the Endure.
It is in this book in particular that any normal human being will feel lazy and stupid in comparison to the genius workaholics presented in the characters of Daniel and Lydia as well as almost every character on the Endure and beyond.
Huchton also shows us that even a genius can be normal when it comes to human emotions and trying to communicate and endure under great hardships and terrible surprises.
The end of this book is heart wrenching and gut rending and you must immediately continue on with book three of this series (Progeny).
Nemesis picks up right where Maven left off, in the middle of a great conflict between the Maven Initiative (the bad guys) and those on the Endure wishing to combat the great evil that wants to unleash a deadly disease on humanity. Only, the Maven Initiative hasn’t set off the deadly bacteria, that even though they hold a kill switch, they have to develop a cure for the disease. They enlist Lydia for her Marine Biochemistry abilities and she works as a double agent, trying to both cure the disease and take down the Initiative. It isn’t until she stumbles on a large hole to the puzzle, that Lydia finds out she has been targeted by the Initiative longer than she expected.
Many new complications arise in this second book in the Endure series. We see a new love interest (old flame) and competition arrives for both Lydia and Daniel. The face of evil that is known as Dr. Burkovitz and the Maven Initiative reveals some surprising developments. The places they are willing to go in their evil plan knows no bounds and Lydia is caught up in the middle of it all.
Huchton really throws on the tension in this book. There are so many new complications and plot twists, but they all fit seamlessly together. Hints from book one and the beginning of book two come alive as their own sub-plots and intricacies.
The characters get more development and depth and we are introduced to the newest complications: Dr. Gorgeous (Nick Miller) and the Mistress of Sarcasm (Anna Corvis). These two characters inflict quite a bit of damage to Lydia and Daniel’s relationship, especially as the two don’t seem to be able to communicate all their feelings to each other. The Maven Initiative’s surprise throws another wrench into Lydia and Daniel’s relationship. Really, almost everything in this book tears at their relationship, threatening to come between the greatest love ever seen on the Endure.
It is in this book in particular that any normal human being will feel lazy and stupid in comparison to the genius workaholics presented in the characters of Daniel and Lydia as well as almost every character on the Endure and beyond.
Huchton also shows us that even a genius can be normal when it comes to human emotions and trying to communicate and endure under great hardships and terrible surprises.
The end of this book is heart wrenching and gut rending and you must immediately continue on with book three of this series (Progeny).
September 19, 2013
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review
Nemesis starts, I believe, 1-2 weeks after the end of Maven. I actually liked Nemesis a lot more than I did Maven. As soon as I finished Maven, I started Nemesis right away. I had to know what was going to happen next!
Lydia and Daniel together are so cute; love them! I really liked that we had more romance in this one. Daniel was super sweet, funny, and it was obvious that he would do anything for Lydia. With all the Maven craziness, they hardly see eachother, and when they do, they are too tired to even talk sometimes.
So in Nemesis, not only are the great characters I loved back (Cordy is one of my faves characters!), but there were also some new faces.
There's Dr. Anna Corvis, who was working with the evil guys and it's now working with NEMESIS. I did not like her at all. From her first appearance, I knew I had to keep my eye on her. Then there is Nick; Lydia's old flame who dumped her when she was 17 and never heard back from. He didn't annoy me as much as I thought he was, but I can see him making some trouble in the next book (maybe?).
We get more science stuff, a little bit of a love triangle (not bad at all) and if you thought you had it all figured out in the first book, think again. Unfortunately, this book has a cliffhanger. It broke my heart in tiny little pieces. I almost threw my ipad against the wall and I may have called S.A Huchton an "evil evil woman" on twitter (Sorry! ;) ) Good thing I only have to wait until November to read the third book in this series.
Nemesis starts, I believe, 1-2 weeks after the end of Maven. I actually liked Nemesis a lot more than I did Maven. As soon as I finished Maven, I started Nemesis right away. I had to know what was going to happen next!
Lydia and Daniel together are so cute; love them! I really liked that we had more romance in this one. Daniel was super sweet, funny, and it was obvious that he would do anything for Lydia. With all the Maven craziness, they hardly see eachother, and when they do, they are too tired to even talk sometimes.
So in Nemesis, not only are the great characters I loved back (Cordy is one of my faves characters!), but there were also some new faces.
There's Dr. Anna Corvis, who was working with the evil guys and it's now working with NEMESIS. I did not like her at all. From her first appearance, I knew I had to keep my eye on her. Then there is Nick; Lydia's old flame who dumped her when she was 17 and never heard back from. He didn't annoy me as much as I thought he was, but I can see him making some trouble in the next book (maybe?).
We get more science stuff, a little bit of a love triangle (not bad at all) and if you thought you had it all figured out in the first book, think again. Unfortunately, this book has a cliffhanger. It broke my heart in tiny little pieces. I almost threw my ipad against the wall and I may have called S.A Huchton an "evil evil woman" on twitter (Sorry! ;) ) Good thing I only have to wait until November to read the third book in this series.
September 16, 2013
Nemesis picks up right where Maven left off. There’s a mystery to solve of what the Maven Initiative’s plan is and how to stop them, a sweet romance that’ll make you melt, and plenty of science-y goodness. There are plenty of new twists, multiple potential love triangles, and even a few naughty bits if that tickles your fancy. ;)
My personal favorite part of Nemesis is how easily Huchton incorporates the scientific/sci-fi elements into the story. There’s new exciting tools to use, gene splicing, and all of it is seamlessly integrated into the romance and mystery. While much of Nemesis focuses on the love triangle and some more mixed signals, a continuation of Maven’s theme, I didn’t feel it detracted from the plot. Huchton keeps you guessing with the mystery in a whodunnit atmosphere and every time I thought I had the bad guy pegged I was proven wrong, which while it was rather humbling was refreshing too. Oh and some of the reveals in this book are craaazy! My expression for much of the book > O_O
I really enjoyed Nemesis, it has a little bit of everything in it and because of that could be a great read for just about anyone. There are some mature scenes so just be aware of that going in, but I liked those too. Huchton’s style really shone in Nemesis and between that and it being the first sci-fi book I’ve read, probably since Maven, it provided a great change of pace and had me loving every minute. I definitely recommend checking it out, along with Maven if you haven’t read book 1 in the series yet, as a fun and often hilarious read.
Rating: 5/5
My personal favorite part of Nemesis is how easily Huchton incorporates the scientific/sci-fi elements into the story. There’s new exciting tools to use, gene splicing, and all of it is seamlessly integrated into the romance and mystery. While much of Nemesis focuses on the love triangle and some more mixed signals, a continuation of Maven’s theme, I didn’t feel it detracted from the plot. Huchton keeps you guessing with the mystery in a whodunnit atmosphere and every time I thought I had the bad guy pegged I was proven wrong, which while it was rather humbling was refreshing too. Oh and some of the reveals in this book are craaazy! My expression for much of the book > O_O
I really enjoyed Nemesis, it has a little bit of everything in it and because of that could be a great read for just about anyone. There are some mature scenes so just be aware of that going in, but I liked those too. Huchton’s style really shone in Nemesis and between that and it being the first sci-fi book I’ve read, probably since Maven, it provided a great change of pace and had me loving every minute. I definitely recommend checking it out, along with Maven if you haven’t read book 1 in the series yet, as a fun and often hilarious read.
Rating: 5/5
September 3, 2013
I had no intention of reading this as quickly as I read Maven. I started it last night and before I knew it, it was over. I just couldn't help myself. Such a fun series! The science is just science-y enough to keep me interested, the Big Bad(s) are up to some seriously evil stuff, and Daniel & Lydia are HOT. I'm usually not surprised by twists in books, but DAMN. Nemesis had a twist that I never saw coming. I am seriously questioning some characters' true motives & wondering how far back this whole crazy conspiracy goes. I'm still not 100% convinced there isn't a mole high up on the Endure and wonder if some of Lydia's staff are involved a little world-ending side research. I hated Dr. Corvis and was annoyed by clingy Nick (BACK OFF, NICK!) but I'm pretty sure that was the author's intent! Those two jerkfaces definitely created some conflict between Daniel and Lydia which was frustrating....but not as frustrating as that ending. ACK!!! WHAT?!?!?! I need more. Where's book 3?! MORE PLEASE.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2013
Just the way I expected, this book also nailed it.
About the story, the rival and all of the issues are also good. I love how the story continued with all the discoveries. What I love about this book is that the content is no nonsense. The end of the story left me wanting more! Gah!! I never see that one coming!
I can't wait what will happen next to Daniel and Lydia.
Again, this book is really worth a shot sci-fi readers!
Can't wait for the next one!
S.A. Huchton really did a fantastic job in this book. Can't wait to read more of this author!
~Ms. ME28
About the story, the rival and all of the issues are also good. I love how the story continued with all the discoveries. What I love about this book is that the content is no nonsense. The end of the story left me wanting more! Gah!! I never see that one coming!
I can't wait what will happen next to Daniel and Lydia.
Again, this book is really worth a shot sci-fi readers!
Can't wait for the next one!
S.A. Huchton really did a fantastic job in this book. Can't wait to read more of this author!
~Ms. ME28
September 19, 2013
First, I would like to thank the author S.A. Huchton for giving this book for an honest review. I love the story, we are still investigating the Maven project. We see old characters and get new ones. More romance, and science, but can still understand on not feel like its to much. I look forward to reading more in the series. Keep them coming S.A. Huchton, great job.
November 14, 2016
Amazing every step of the way. This was a great follow-up to MAVEN, and definitely sets PROGENY up for an explosive ride.
July 31, 2015
I saw Lydia big event at theme coming but didn't at the same time...on to the next one cuz I gotta see what's happening next!
September 9, 2013
NOR review pending
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