Split

The Price of Talent #3

by A.K. Nevermore

On an alternate earth, a cataclysm has altered a subset of the population. Talents are persecuted for their psychic and physical mutations, giving rise to two conflicting societies based upon maintaining genetic purity. And the Source, a shadowy corporate entity dependent upon the exploitation of captive Talents, is hunting them…

The city of Glynfyls is burning.

And Flynn Scot is powerless to stop it. Now that his status is in question, the Assembly is calling for his head. The only thing keeping it on his shoulders is the commons rioting with the demand he be made Overlord.

Fluctuating between extremes, Kara’s talent deficiency is becoming critical.

With her body failing and Flynn at the Assembly’s mercy, Kara Scot has no choice but to take his seat and fight for her House. But clearing Flynn’s name and battering herself against the tide of public censure threatens to drag her under.

So does the wave of Humanity Purists marching toward Glynfyls.

No Talent is safe outside the city. Refugees flock to the north fleeing extermination only to find a metropolis torn by prejudice and fear. Unless Flynn and Kara can find a way to survive the machinations of the Assembly, there will be nothing standing between them and annihilation. Because even if they survive the extremists, Titus’s army is following in their wake ready to harvest whatever is left.

Genres: Dystopia

452 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 1, 2024

About the author

AK Nevermore enjoys operating heavy machinery, freebases coffee, and gives up sarcasm for Lent every year.

A Jane-of-all-trades, she’s a certified chef, restores antiques, and dabbles in beekeeping when she’s not reading voraciously or running down the dream in her beat-up camo Chucks.

Unable to ignore the voices in her head, and unwilling to become medicated, she writes full time around a nest full of ravens. Her books explore dark worlds, perversely irreverent and profound, and always entertaining.

AK belongs to a bunch of industry associations, volunteers for far too many committees, teaches creative writing, and on the rare occasion, sleeps.

Reviews

[Bookaholic__Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't even know what to say other than I adore this series so much. Listen, dystopian spice wasn't on my 2024 bingo card, yet here I am 3 books deep and wanting more!

I'm going to need at least 48 business hours to process my feelings. Lol

Edited to add:
So after taking multiple days to just sit with my feelings.... I am still speechless. There aren't any adequate words to explain the chokehold that this series has on me.

I absolutely adore our FMC and MMC. My heart has broken multiple times for them. This pregnancy??? It has me on edge more than my own did. And this book didn't give me any of the resolutions I needed!!!! Nevermore stop playing with my feelings! Lol


Can January be tomorrow, please?


I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Michellelovesreading · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good book

[STEPHANIE · Rating 5 out of 5]

Split is the third book in the price of talent series, it's an incredible spicy dystopian series that has me hooked! Flynn has an incredible uphill fight on his hands, and Kara steps into her own, and it's really showcased in this book.
The characters, the world building, the plot twists and surprises are what make AK Nevermore's series stand out for 2024. It's such a unique plot! I got into fantasy in 2024, and a lot of it is following the same storyline and characters, but AK Nevermore stands out for being completely original! This is a series you must add to your TBR, and actually read it. I have been highly impressed with the series, and the writing just sucks you into this absolutely incredible world that you can't stop wishing they would be made into movies.

[Vikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Split, the third installment in The Price of Talent Series, has been insane in the best way. This emotional addition plunges readers into a chaotic world where the city of Glynfyls is in chaos as Flynn faces the Assembly and Kara fights against her talent deficiency.

This book has been an enthralling tale of resilience, sacrifice, and the fight for identity, making it an unforgettable entry in a series that has kept me completely enamored since book one, Breaker. It's a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction and dark romance alike.

[Queen Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whew, I have to come down from the information dump that just happened in order to be able to actually type right now. My goodness! There is so much happening right now that it is actually kinda crazy! I'll give a brief synopsis on where we are with everyone Titus (hate), is on the move and bringing the war to fruition with the North. He has so many secrets that no one really knows everything. One thing we do know is that he is definitely a pawn for Mother. Mother (hate x2), OMG we know who she is now and her relation to known characters!! Of course we still don't know exactly what went down to get everyone and everything to where it is now. If everyone didn't know already, we have 1 million percent confirmation that certain characters have been around since the surge originally happened (big gasp). Kara, we are still in limbo with what is truly happening with her and the babies. I am on tenderhooks here waiting to see how this plays out. Our badass FMC is still doing the dang thing out here! She is breaking records and making people think twice about messing with her....while still stepping in it when it comes to politics in Glynfyls. Flynn, still being the best himbo there is. Cal, still being the best shady granddad he can be. There are so many more individual characters that were able to get their time to shine in this book. Whether I liked that shine or not remains to be see *cough* Otto *cough*. There was so much of the past that was revealed in Split. Like...I won't spoil but there is just SO MUCH. There is just...one thing that I really want to LOL about but it's a spoiler so....hurry and read this book so we can talk about it! The war between the talents in the North and the power grabbers in the South is about to begin. I can't wait to see how things shake out even though that means that we are closer to the end of the series. There will definitely be a reckoning and I hope that things won't be sad but we shall see. I can't even express how much I recommend this series enough. There is so much to love.

The spice in this book is definitely high. Kara and Flynn, keep things spicy even though there is definitely some health issues going on with Kara. I give the spice a 4 out of 5 on the spice scale! Overall, I give this book a 4 out of 5. It is great! The depth of the story and the characters are amazing. The slow reveals that are coming out about everything has made this such an amazing and rewarding journey. Go ahead and pick this book up now so that you can enjoy the journey along with me!

[Marhen DeNoble · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off - Holy Dystopian Charlie Foxtrot : What did I just read?!

I have to say : Ms. AK Nevermore can write!! This woman has put together an entire world that has so many puzzles and layers that has your mind bending in each and every single way. Just when you think you have something figured out another cluster fuck comes your way!!!

I was gripping the edges of my kindle the ENTIRE time reading this and sending thee most feral comments to the author.

Flynn and Kara are so amazing. So complex and just continue to grow. You would think by now you would have them figured out - wrong.

And each side character is more than just a side character they are almost a lead all unto themselves. In Split we really get into the bit and grit as the Source is breaking apart and the war is coming upon the city in the north. But the north is fraying as well with their own politics and prejudices leaving them vulnerable.

This series will have you completely blown away. It is like an entire cinematic production masterpiece- truly amazing. Absolutely incredible. Worth every single page. And then some.

[in a world of ink · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy Gods. There's so much to unpack here. I'm not even sure what I just read.

Kara is such a bada$$. I absolutely love her. And the scene where she finally put the ladies in check? Chefs kiss. She is definitely coming into her own.

Flynn. My sweet summer child. He has so many things thrown at him in such a short amount of time. Holy plot twists (no pun intended 🤭).

Cal? Still a sneaky little devil with his half truths and stone walling. Leo, he finally makes an appearance again 🙄. Rogan? I still love him, even after all he's put Kara through.

I'm going to absolutely dread the next few months until Overlord comes out, I need more. Book well done AK, I'm literally foaming at the mouth for more.

[Kerin Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

I say this with everything there is in me this is the best dystopian romance I’ve ever read in my entire life. THIS is like nothing I have ever read before and it’s addicting consuming and intense! She writes literal magic on these pages. IT IS OUTSTANDING and as you know a lot of series feel drawn out or falls flat. ABSOLUTELY NOT THE CASE! These characters are so well built I feel like I personally know them and I’m living in these stories with them. INSANE!!! (Round of applause) 👏🏻 (you should not sleep on this series) seriously needs to be turned into a movie!) okay I’m out of breath just go get them. -Kerin

[MellissaMae · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is incredibly captivating! Kara's strength and confidence are truly inspiring. I admire her bold attitude and impressive fighting skills. The constant action and suspense keep me engaged, and the surprising plot twists are thrilling. I giggled at the meeting after they were accidentally on “display”. I think it was one of my favorite parts of this story but there are many. I'm eagerly anticipating the next installment to discover what's next!

[Charlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Split, book three in the Price of Talents series continues the story of Kara and Flynn. I’ll admit, I missed the other two books in this series, so I was a little lost but the story was still good. I will, however, need to reread this series at some point so I can have a better understanding of the storyline. All in all, another good book by this author, and looking forward to reading more of her books.

[Tori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy forking forks!!

Holy forking forks.

Just when I thought the author couldn’t possibly top the previous book, she did.

The growth we continue to see in both Kara and Flynn is fantastic. And their relationship? Gods above, help me! The plot twists that AK keeps throwing in and I don’t see coming?! Uugghhh!!

This series is everything, and I mean EVERYTHING! I cannot wait to see what happens next

[Laurie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is absolutely gripping! Kara’s strength and confidence are so inspiring, and I love her bold attitude and impressive combat skills. The nonstop action and suspense keep me hooked, while the unexpected plot twists add to the excitement. I couldn’t help but laugh at the scene after they ended up accidentally on “display”—it was definitely one of my favorite moments, though there are so many great ones. I can’t wait for the next installment to see what happens next!

[Jess Michalski · Rating 5 out of 5]

And it just keeps getting better and pulling me in deeper! There were so many “moments” in this book and I am here for it all! Humor, heat, suspense, it has everything. And Kara and Flynn? Oh please keep it coming!! If you’ve never given dystopian romance a try, I suggest doing so, just please start with book one!

[Ashley McNeal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story has the right amount of tension, turmoil, spicy scenes!!!!! Ak is an absolutely talented writer because I was glued to the pages!!! Thank you for one of my favorite series! I never knew jd enjoy dystopian scifi this much! Getting hubby to read it is on my Christmas list! He promised! 😏Can’t wait to see what he thinks!!!

[Stacy MacEachern · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg! This book blew my mind with everything in it. I absolutely love like love love Flynn! Kara is my second best I love but feels like we are made to love her like that lol. Titus I dislike so much! Cal I really don’t like either :(. This book did not disappoint either. I can not wait for overlord

[Stacy Manning · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just can’t say enough about this series and the imagination that this author has. AK Nevermore is one of my favorites and hits it out the park with yet another one. I absolutely love the price of talent series and can’t wait to get the next installment!

[Hannah Boyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is everything I could ever want and need!! I LOVED this book! It’s rare that I like both the FMC and MMC but I’m heavily invested.

[Marivel (marislitcorner) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

Split was like being on a high-octane rollercoaster. All the plotting came to a head and had me on the edge of my seat. While Flynn's and Kara's bond continued to grow and strengthen, Flynn was thrown deeper into The Assembly, and could no longer deny the important role he needed to take.

AK Nevermore has done a great job of keeping the world-building going without causing confusion. I've enjoyed the definitions and historical documentation excerpts she's provided at the beginning of each chapter, which helps tie the present to the past.

I enjoyed all the action and seeing certain characters get more stage time, and I'm excited to find out how their character arcs turn out. I'm looking at you, Fitz.

The spice was SPICIN! Flynn and Kara were literally explosive together, and I was here for it.

I'm looking forward to the next book which can't come soon enough.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well done A.K.Nevermore!

I absolutely loved Split by A.K. Nevermore! The story continues to captivate with its thrilling plot twists, emotional depth, and complex characters. I was particularly drawn to how the relationships evolve, keeping me invested in every page. The pacing is perfect, and the tension between moments of heart-pounding action and quiet introspection is expertly balanced. I'm still so enamored with this series, and it’s clear that Nevermore has a gift for crafting a world that pulls you in and doesn’t let go. If you haven't read this yet, you're missing out on a truly compelling journey!

[Kay Daniels (Kay Daniels Romance) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Split is the third novel of Nevermore's dark, dystopian world.

There are so many moving pieces that I had to stop and think about each one as they popped up. However, for me, the most important and always front and center are Flynn and Kara.

There were a few moments that actually made me giggle; Kara had to take Flynn's spot while he was momentarily held in prison. Her thoughts rolled as to why Flynn always came back grumpy, but basically in a nutshell - nothing gets done and politics are insane. There has never been a truer thought right there. Then while Flynn was in prison, he was bored and wanted something to read and there were only a few books to choose from and one was a romance, which didn't interest him - pity, or Feng Shui, but I did like that he told the chancellor that the toilet would get better energy if it was moved. That was priceless!!

It was these golden nuggets that really entertained me in this dark book. While my mind tends to wander when it comes to politics...especially after the year we just went through, I really enjoyed the dry humor and wit that characters threw out when things seemed at their darkest. 

While Kara isn't one hundred percent, she does gain back some of her footing and I was happy to see her spunk shining through again and of course, my favorite parts are when Flynn and her are together, strengthening their bond and lovin' all up on each other. 

[Nikki B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

So. I was never a big dystopian fan. But this series has me hooked. Every book in this series just keeps getting better and better. World building really isn't my thing. But A.K. Nevermore writes in a way where she makes it super simple to understand, yet, it's detailed enough to get a clear picture in your head. I love Flynn and Kara together. They have amazing chemistry. Kara is my absolute favorite. I love her so much. Her character development though this entire series has been incredible. Seeing her kind of take charge and step into her own now was been heartwarming. The characters are all really well written and in this book, a lot of other characters get to sort of step forward a little and we get to learn more about them. I didn't expect all the little funny moments that this book had. I was literally cracking up sometimes. Imagine being in prison and telling them the toilet should be moved for better energy because in your free, bored time in prison, you're reading a book about Feng Shui. The story line has a great balance of action, humor, and spice. I felt all the emotions when reading this. I'm not huge on politics in general, so during those parts, my mind tends to drift and I can't really stay focused. But there is so much going on that it didn't take away from the storyline. The plot twists had me on the edge of my seat!!! I can't wait for the next book. I highly highly recommend giving this series a read!!

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.

This is the third book in The Price of Talent Series. You have to read Breeder, Destroyer, Breaker and Binder. The first two in that list are novella size and the "full" books begin with Breaker. But reading Breeder and Destroyer will give you a lot of information on our main characters Fynn and Kara. I was so excited to be back in this series. This is a dystopian world and I love to read good dystopian stories. If you ask me the world needs more of them. I don't want to go into the details of the story because there is a whole lot going on. And when I say a whole lot I mean it. If you're looking for answers from the first two books, you're probably not going to get them all, but you sure will add some more to your list while reading this book. I think you fall even harder for our bad butt main characters, Fynn and Kara. I will say that Fynn has a lot thrown at him in this book. Over and over again. We get to see our troublemaker Cal. Along with Leo and Rogan. This is not the final book in this series. I can not to get Overlord in my hot little hands. If you haven't started this series yet, you really really should.

[N.N. Heaven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Flynn and Kara are at the crossroads between two factions with no way out. Can Flynn be controlled or will his split prevent him from becoming what he's been bred to be: overlord? Can Flynn and Kara fight Titus' army coming for their harvest or is the war over before it begins?

Split is a high-stakes dystopian, part of the Price of Talents saga. The more I read, the more akin it is to Game of Thrones. The houses in Assembly vie for political supremacy, not caring for the common people. The world-building is flawless and remains consistent from book to book. The characters are what drives this book and the reason why Split is unputdownable.

The stakes couldn't be higher for Flynn and Kara. The fallout of what they did is crashing around their ears. Action must be taken but are they prepared? This is the main crux of the plot, and I couldn't read fast enough.

AK Nevermore has penned another intoxicating book in this series. I wait with bated breath for the next installment, Overlord.

My Rating: 5+ stars

Reviewed by: Nancy

This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...

[Mr J · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the way this book in the series balances the political intrigue with excellent set-piece moments of great tension and action. The author's world-building is as strong as ever and we feel we live and breathe in Glynfyls along with the multitude of entertaining, evil or downright twisted characters. The author brings us so close to the two main protagonists that we agonize at every trial and tribulation they suffer in the chaos that unfolds while trying to hold on to one another (and their sanity).

If I have one criticism, it's that I would like a family tree or brief list of characters at the start or back of the book (or on the author's website). Sometimes my poor memory couldn't keep up with who everyone was.

Oh, and the two main characters' romance is as smokin' as ever.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this world, escaped this one!
Split by A.K. Nevermore is a fast-moving fantasy set on an alternate Earth where people with Talents fight to survive. Flynn and Kara Scot drive the story with heart, courage, and plenty of tension. The action never lets up, the world feels real, and the themes of prejudice and resistance hit home. The characters are flawed yet unforgettable, making this a powerful read in The Price of Talent series. With its blend of action, heart, and rich world-building, this is a story that truly stays with you.”

[Sissy Satterfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kara Scot
I love this awesomely original dystopian that comes with spicy romance and a strong FMC! It is really difficult to review without spoilers so I am going to try. This story gave me everything that I wanted and More! I could not put it down, I loved the MCs and the story that I want more of. If you love Dystopian and spice, I Highly Recommend!!! No Spoilers!
I received an ARC and I am Leaving this Totally Honest Review because I Choose to and think that this story is Amazing!!!

[Dalia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series so far has been amazing, and it gets better by the book. Because of its intricate characters, emotional depth, and exciting plot twists, the story never fails to enthrall. I found myself engrossed in every page because of how the relationships develop. The tension between emotional scenes and action sequences and quiet moments of reflection is expertly balanced, and the pacing is flawless. This series is a must for anyone that enjoys dystopian books with spice.

[Judy R · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series just keeps getting better and better! If you've never given dystopian romances a try, I suggest you start with this series!! I want and need more from Kara and Flynn!! This series has everything you're looking for in a dystopian series.. Spice, conflict, suspense, tension and will even make you laugh. Do yourself a favor and pick this series up, you won't regret it.

[Joanna C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another exciting installment

Just when I thought things couldn’t get more complicated Kara has to deal with not only the stress of being pregnant. Flynn must make some choices and learn to control his powers. Will their love be enough to endure all the challenges thrown their way?

[Southern Styleblooms · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my I was definitely a fan after book 1, but I can't say enough about this series. I don't want to give spoilers , but def check in with these. The love in this oh my