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The Apprentice #3
Transgressions
Life within the Serengeti Cartel is perilous, riddled with malice and intrigue that can threaten the mightiest of warriors. For Lilian – brilliant, despised and one misstep away from execution for her father’s crimes – all that stands between her and destruction is the powerful warrior Lucius Mercio. In return for his protection, Lilian became Lucius' apprentice, yielding control of her body, will, and intellect. The desperate gamble has paid off. In defiance of all expectation, Lilian has survived nearly a third of her trial by ordeal, but it is far from over.
Determined to raise Serengeti to the pinnacle of power in the Twelve Systems, Lucius has ruthlessly exploited Lilian’s brilliance to achieve his ambitions. Within seasons, he will lead Serengeti to new heights with the launch of Bright Star, the first stellar exploration venture in over two centuries. With each new success, Lucius’ rivals multiply while a traitor stalks the halls of Serengeti, determined to thwart Lucius by any means. As the viciousness of her enemies escalates, Lilian is forced to confront the past and choose between betraying her oath of loyalty to Lucius and protecting the deadly secrets of her father's dark acts.
Determined to raise Serengeti to the pinnacle of power in the Twelve Systems, Lucius has ruthlessly exploited Lilian’s brilliance to achieve his ambitions. Within seasons, he will lead Serengeti to new heights with the launch of Bright Star, the first stellar exploration venture in over two centuries. With each new success, Lucius’ rivals multiply while a traitor stalks the halls of Serengeti, determined to thwart Lucius by any means. As the viciousness of her enemies escalates, Lilian is forced to confront the past and choose between betraying her oath of loyalty to Lucius and protecting the deadly secrets of her father's dark acts.
492 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 16, 2016
About the author
E.G. Manetti
18 books158 followers
I write from the world around me, and the world around me is full of color.
Award-winning author EG Manetti has always enjoyed a vivid imagination and occasional scribbling. Her epic science fiction series, The Twelve Systems Chronicles, blends the intrigue and danger of space opera with the passion and social rigidity of historical romance.
The ten-volume series began in 2012, with The Cartel: The Apprentice, Volume 1, and completed in 2021 with Thorn Bearer: Thornraven, Volume 3. The series has received four Paranormal Guild Reviewers Choice Awards, seven InD’tale RONE (Reward for Novel Excellence) nominations with five volumes award finalist badges. Shield Bearer: Thornraven, Volume 2 received the 2021 RONE for Science Fiction.
Elemental Fire: The Hidden Realms #1, her first venture into fantasy, combines her favorite aspects of urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and action/adventure genres.
A former information technology project manager, EG resides in Florida with her beloved (often confounded) husband and their severely OCD Jack Russell Terrier. She writes as often as possible, cooks exceptionally, and gardens adequately.
The Twelve Systems Chronicles are epic science fiction romance that blends elements of space opera with the intrigue and suspense of a political thriller. “With characters that jump off the page, love that is forbidden yet unstoppable mixed with top-notch worlds and technology, sci-fi has never looked so good or become so addictive!” ~ InD'Tale Magazine, February 2018.
Enter The Twelve Systems with a free copy of The Cartel
Like EG Manetti on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
EG Manetti Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/egmanetti/
EG Manetti Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@egmanetti
Award-winning author EG Manetti has always enjoyed a vivid imagination and occasional scribbling. Her epic science fiction series, The Twelve Systems Chronicles, blends the intrigue and danger of space opera with the passion and social rigidity of historical romance.
The ten-volume series began in 2012, with The Cartel: The Apprentice, Volume 1, and completed in 2021 with Thorn Bearer: Thornraven, Volume 3. The series has received four Paranormal Guild Reviewers Choice Awards, seven InD’tale RONE (Reward for Novel Excellence) nominations with five volumes award finalist badges. Shield Bearer: Thornraven, Volume 2 received the 2021 RONE for Science Fiction.
Elemental Fire: The Hidden Realms #1, her first venture into fantasy, combines her favorite aspects of urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and action/adventure genres.
A former information technology project manager, EG resides in Florida with her beloved (often confounded) husband and their severely OCD Jack Russell Terrier. She writes as often as possible, cooks exceptionally, and gardens adequately.
The Twelve Systems Chronicles are epic science fiction romance that blends elements of space opera with the intrigue and suspense of a political thriller. “With characters that jump off the page, love that is forbidden yet unstoppable mixed with top-notch worlds and technology, sci-fi has never looked so good or become so addictive!” ~ InD'Tale Magazine, February 2018.
Enter The Twelve Systems with a free copy of The Cartel
Like EG Manetti on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
EG Manetti Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/egmanetti/
EG Manetti Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@egmanetti
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
August 15, 2019
Have you ever read a book or series that objectively you should not like for several legitimate reasons and yet you find yourself enjoying it anyways, almost despite yourself? Because that's how I feel about this series. There are several things that are questionable, the main one being the pseudo-sex-slavery. In this world if you are an 'Apprentice' you're basically forced to completely hand over your will and your body to your 'bond holder', but at the same time you willingly signed the agreement for doing this for 3 years and you do get paid during this time so it's kind of a gray area as far as consent goes. What makes this weird situation even worse is that the heroine, Lillian, has a bond holder that is MARRIED and yet he takes full advantage of her body on an almost daily basis.
There's other things that are odd about this book too - it's set in a futuristic sci-fi world where advanced technology exists and yet at the same time people speak like what you would expect in a historical romance novel (lots of formal speech with a lack of contractions and the usage of 'milord').
BUT with all that said - there's just something about this that really just has me interested! The characters are great, there's corporate/political intrigue, there's very small fantasy elements, and there's extensive world building (though I admit to completely skipping the intro text to every chapter that are not at all necessary to the book's plot).
So would I recommend this series? No? Yes? Maybe? I don't know! But I do know I am absolutely reading the next book. This series oddly works for me.
There's other things that are odd about this book too - it's set in a futuristic sci-fi world where advanced technology exists and yet at the same time people speak like what you would expect in a historical romance novel (lots of formal speech with a lack of contractions and the usage of 'milord').
BUT with all that said - there's just something about this that really just has me interested! The characters are great, there's corporate/political intrigue, there's very small fantasy elements, and there's extensive world building (though I admit to completely skipping the intro text to every chapter that are not at all necessary to the book's plot).
So would I recommend this series? No? Yes? Maybe? I don't know! But I do know I am absolutely reading the next book. This series oddly works for me.
June 23, 2023
*3.5*
In the aftermath of her father’s execution for terrible crimes, Lilian was convicted of Guilt by Blood. In return for her life, Lilian vowed to serve three years as Lucius’ indentured servant, yielding him total control of her body, intellect, and will.
I think I hit my personal record for picking a book up, and setting it back down without finishing a chapter. The first half was so DRY, recapping everything that happened to previous stories, nothing was happening. The writing here is incredibly dense, it feels almost like work to dig through it all.
This series has:
Power imbalances on multiple levels
Non-romantic graphic M/F sex
Each chapter begins with ancient texts
Multiple religions and cultural beliefs
Complex mixing of political intrigue, espionage and ancient rituals
Within the Twelve Systems, passion is not confused with love, or attraction with affection. Physical desire is considered as natural as hunger or thirst.
I don’t quite understand that sentence when you have a culture that makes sex slavery legal. Not only that, apprentices are constantly under scrutiny, every moment of their time is controlled by their “owners” with some of the apprentices being physically beaten for minor offenses. The main character is often called slurs like doxy or whore and treated like crap because of who she is.
I also am struggling to understand the appeal of Monsignor Lucius. The FMC is missing her lunch every day because he likes to have sex at lunchtime. Her additional duties require so much of her time, she literally cannot fit in a few seconds to eat something. She’s not allowed to complain. She’s only allowed to follow all of the rules. He gets angry that she’s getting skinny, so her punishment is that she’s not allowed to wear her undergarments for two days?
Not to mention the fact that he is married, and has three almost grown children, is a hard pill for this romantic reader to swallow.
What saved the story and this series for me is the FMC Lillian. She is courageous, honest, steadfast, loving, and highly intelligent.
I don’t know if I have it in me to continue this series. The writing and world building is stellar, but 60% of this story read as filler.
I think I hit my personal record for picking a book up, and setting it back down without finishing a chapter. The first half was so DRY, recapping everything that happened to previous stories, nothing was happening. The writing here is incredibly dense, it feels almost like work to dig through it all.
This series has:
Power imbalances on multiple levels
Non-romantic graphic M/F sex
Each chapter begins with ancient texts
Multiple religions and cultural beliefs
Complex mixing of political intrigue, espionage and ancient rituals
Within the Twelve Systems, passion is not confused with love, or attraction with affection. Physical desire is considered as natural as hunger or thirst.
I don’t quite understand that sentence when you have a culture that makes sex slavery legal. Not only that, apprentices are constantly under scrutiny, every moment of their time is controlled by their “owners” with some of the apprentices being physically beaten for minor offenses. The main character is often called slurs like doxy or whore and treated like crap because of who she is.
I also am struggling to understand the appeal of Monsignor Lucius. The FMC is missing her lunch every day because he likes to have sex at lunchtime. Her additional duties require so much of her time, she literally cannot fit in a few seconds to eat something. She’s not allowed to complain. She’s only allowed to follow all of the rules. He gets angry that she’s getting skinny, so her punishment is that she’s not allowed to wear her undergarments for two days?
Not to mention the fact that he is married, and has three almost grown children, is a hard pill for this romantic reader to swallow.
What saved the story and this series for me is the FMC Lillian. She is courageous, honest, steadfast, loving, and highly intelligent.
I don’t know if I have it in me to continue this series. The writing and world building is stellar, but 60% of this story read as filler.
January 20, 2019
5 STARS!
After a bit of a meandering plot in book 2, this installment has reaffirmed my utter devotion to this series. Transgressions was sharp and on-point, keeping me on the edge of my seat one minute and then frustrated or completely satisfied the next.
The majority of the story deals with the intrigues of the Serengeti Cartel, all the while solidifying my love for the characters, especially our brilliant heroine, Lilian, who endures numerous attempts on her life.
Lilian and Lucius' emotional relationship continues to grow by TINY increments. I'm not sure I'm at all happy with the hints that are being left throughout the story.
"Wit and courage have brought us this far."Better than ever!
After a bit of a meandering plot in book 2, this installment has reaffirmed my utter devotion to this series. Transgressions was sharp and on-point, keeping me on the edge of my seat one minute and then frustrated or completely satisfied the next.
The majority of the story deals with the intrigues of the Serengeti Cartel, all the while solidifying my love for the characters, especially our brilliant heroine, Lilian, who endures numerous attempts on her life.
Lilian and Lucius' emotional relationship continues to grow by TINY increments. I'm not sure I'm at all happy with the hints that are being left throughout the story.
The ultimate bond between apprentice and master is designed to create loyalty that equals to a blood bond. It often spans generations. It is not to be corrupted by emotional ties that can only be healthy when they exist between equals.But I love that Lucius is becoming a tad frustrated with the situation.
Lucius knew the pitfalls of this arrangement when he entered into it.Even if I'm worried about the ultimate outcome of the story, there's nothing in the world that would keep me from finishing it. It makes me think, consider and then reconsider - I love it!
January 14, 2019
The Ancients before Anarchy said "Seek and ye shall find." With that statement I was even more impressed, enamored and beguiled by the Twelve Systems Chronicles by E.G. Manetti. With one throwback phrase found on a marble fragment in an ancient archaeological site, Manetti manifested a theory that solidified all my weird thoughts about how this series is a future world that has its basis in a convoluted combination of Asian warrior mysticism and New Testament tenets, involving discourse - and eventual discord - among disciples who somehow fell into a resultant Dark Ages in a galaxy far, far away.
The Ancients, the Warriors, the canons, the shrines, the agnostic, the educated all have this familiarity yet this otherness that speaks to traditions bastardized and butchered, yet magnificently adapted for a new millennium in their own unique way. I am fascinated by the possibilities of the future and how Manetti will tie in the past in her Twelve Systems Chronicles.
But to set us firmly in the present (at least in the far away world), I have to say that the indoctrination of the Cartel system and the history lessons of the Five Warriors became repetitious in this third installment. Particularly in the beginning, I found the literal, word for word re-use of phrases and backstory to be laborious. To be clear, this is NOT a standalone novel. Go back and read the first two. That said, this book was a glorious, and at times disturbing, continuation of the saga of Lilian and her indenture to Monsignor Lucius Mercio.
Most prevalent in this book is the maneuvering for power and prestige within the Blooded Dagger Cartel. It brings to mind the Robber Barons of the Gilded Age, men like John Jacob Astor, Andrew Carnegie, J.P. Morgan, Jay Gould and John D. Rockefeller, who jockeyed for advantage in trade and industry. The same is taking place in the Twelve Systems among the Cartels and Cartouches, where seigneurs use cunning or blades to take down competitors. The intrigues are fascinating and complex, and colored by an esoteric Warrior devotion that adds danger and suspense. Apprentice Lilian is right in the middle of it all. Because she is from a disgraced family, her role is even more tenuous and her safety is suspect at all times. The ruthlessness is something to behold, and by the time Lilian's second year of indenture rolls around, she is no novice to acting as a blade herself. The girl has insight and is entirely willing to manipulate certain ends either for the benefit of her fellow apprentices or for the will of Milord. "He had sought a prodigy for his stellar exploration consortium. Someone capable of assessing risk and rationalizing complexity at a level not required in two centuries. He has found something a great deal more."
As in previous installments of this series, Lilian is nobody's tool. Not even, I think, Milord's. "It is wonderment to me how someone so obedient is able to work her will so frequently." In the end, I wonder who will be the master and who the spoils. Or if these two will come to another accord. Flashes of jealousy and possessiveness come out in Lucius, even though the strictures of the Apprentice Code forbid affection. There is a benign cover of civilization in the Cartel so when this book really cuts loose with retribution and "correction," the savagery of it is shocking. Lucius is ruthlessly willing to do anything to keep Lilian safe. Yet their interpersonal connection deepens with meaningful rewards and gifts that skate the edge of blasphemy. Revelations from Lilian deepen the regard Lucius feels for her. But never love. Never affection. Such could mean her death. These two walk a tight path that could bear little deep scrutiny, plus it is complicated by Lucius's devotion to his sick wife and wayward children. To love a seigneur is regarded as "repugnant." How does a book that has a deeply romantic tenor get past such a societal taboo? Throughout this book my belief in the future of Lucius and Lilian ebbed and flowed.
The end of this book culminates in Cartel upheaval and an awesome display of control and retribution. Manetti lets us see and feel and rejoice in every aspect. The careful dance of dominance between Lilian and Lucius goes on, illustrated beautifully, metaphorically and erotically by Manetti.
Book source: Purchased.
The Ancients, the Warriors, the canons, the shrines, the agnostic, the educated all have this familiarity yet this otherness that speaks to traditions bastardized and butchered, yet magnificently adapted for a new millennium in their own unique way. I am fascinated by the possibilities of the future and how Manetti will tie in the past in her Twelve Systems Chronicles.
But to set us firmly in the present (at least in the far away world), I have to say that the indoctrination of the Cartel system and the history lessons of the Five Warriors became repetitious in this third installment. Particularly in the beginning, I found the literal, word for word re-use of phrases and backstory to be laborious. To be clear, this is NOT a standalone novel. Go back and read the first two. That said, this book was a glorious, and at times disturbing, continuation of the saga of Lilian and her indenture to Monsignor Lucius Mercio.
Most prevalent in this book is the maneuvering for power and prestige within the Blooded Dagger Cartel. It brings to mind the Robber Barons of the Gilded Age, men like John Jacob Astor, Andrew Carnegie, J.P. Morgan, Jay Gould and John D. Rockefeller, who jockeyed for advantage in trade and industry. The same is taking place in the Twelve Systems among the Cartels and Cartouches, where seigneurs use cunning or blades to take down competitors. The intrigues are fascinating and complex, and colored by an esoteric Warrior devotion that adds danger and suspense. Apprentice Lilian is right in the middle of it all. Because she is from a disgraced family, her role is even more tenuous and her safety is suspect at all times. The ruthlessness is something to behold, and by the time Lilian's second year of indenture rolls around, she is no novice to acting as a blade herself. The girl has insight and is entirely willing to manipulate certain ends either for the benefit of her fellow apprentices or for the will of Milord. "He had sought a prodigy for his stellar exploration consortium. Someone capable of assessing risk and rationalizing complexity at a level not required in two centuries. He has found something a great deal more."
As in previous installments of this series, Lilian is nobody's tool. Not even, I think, Milord's. "It is wonderment to me how someone so obedient is able to work her will so frequently." In the end, I wonder who will be the master and who the spoils. Or if these two will come to another accord. Flashes of jealousy and possessiveness come out in Lucius, even though the strictures of the Apprentice Code forbid affection. There is a benign cover of civilization in the Cartel so when this book really cuts loose with retribution and "correction," the savagery of it is shocking. Lucius is ruthlessly willing to do anything to keep Lilian safe. Yet their interpersonal connection deepens with meaningful rewards and gifts that skate the edge of blasphemy. Revelations from Lilian deepen the regard Lucius feels for her. But never love. Never affection. Such could mean her death. These two walk a tight path that could bear little deep scrutiny, plus it is complicated by Lucius's devotion to his sick wife and wayward children. To love a seigneur is regarded as "repugnant." How does a book that has a deeply romantic tenor get past such a societal taboo? Throughout this book my belief in the future of Lucius and Lilian ebbed and flowed.
The end of this book culminates in Cartel upheaval and an awesome display of control and retribution. Manetti lets us see and feel and rejoice in every aspect. The careful dance of dominance between Lilian and Lucius goes on, illustrated beautifully, metaphorically and erotically by Manetti.
Book source: Purchased.
October 15, 2025
Another great addition to this series
Part three sees many of the intrigues of the first two books resolved but there is still almost a year and a half for our heroine to meet her debt. I don’t like giving spoilers but I suggest readers start with book one, get in the rhythm of the writing and the just enjoy the ride heading toward the thirteenth system!
Part three sees many of the intrigues of the first two books resolved but there is still almost a year and a half for our heroine to meet her debt. I don’t like giving spoilers but I suggest readers start with book one, get in the rhythm of the writing and the just enjoy the ride heading toward the thirteenth system!
July 12, 2025
4.75 Stars
OH MY GOD!
I can't wait to read #4.
Loved it
It has everything I enjoy
Suspense
Sex
Great world build
Fast paced
OH MY GOD!
I can't wait to read #4.
Loved it
It has everything I enjoy
Suspense
Sex
Great world build
Fast paced
February 27, 2017
The best yet of the three volumes, this is my favorite although it gets pretty dark for awhile.
February 18, 2016
5-star series. Lilian, the heroine of this series, is a woman of agency – she acts to make things happen. Solely because of the crimes of her father, she is stripped of all her possessions, her honor and title, and sentenced to a three year trial by ordeal in lieu of death. Due to the huge publicity about his crimes (think O.J. Simpson), her neighbors, her co-workers, the woman on the street, all revile her.
Lilian has very little control over almost everything in her life: She cannot be in a room with a man without a chaperone, she cannot refuse to tell her master anything he wishes to know, she cannot complain, she cannot ask for instructions, she cannot refuse her master any sort of sexual service. Every hour of her time must be accounted for; should she be late, she is disciplined.
However, in order to survive the ordeals, she must use her brain (action), which is quite extraordinary. She must find a ways to get her master’s will (his work or his wishes) done without violating the rules (action). And, when her master’s enemies attack her, she must defendant herself with wits, avoidance or a six-inch knife action.
Lilian has very little control over almost everything in her life: She cannot be in a room with a man without a chaperone, she cannot refuse to tell her master anything he wishes to know, she cannot complain, she cannot ask for instructions, she cannot refuse her master any sort of sexual service. Every hour of her time must be accounted for; should she be late, she is disciplined.
However, in order to survive the ordeals, she must use her brain (action), which is quite extraordinary. She must find a ways to get her master’s will (his work or his wishes) done without violating the rules (action). And, when her master’s enemies attack her, she must defendant herself with wits, avoidance or a six-inch knife action.
May 6, 2016
4.5/5.0
“Transgressions” is a fascinating read! Ms. Manetti’s gift with prose creates a compelling world which draws the reader in and holds their attention to the end.
Read full review in the 2016 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
“Transgressions” is a fascinating read! Ms. Manetti’s gift with prose creates a compelling world which draws the reader in and holds their attention to the end.
Read full review in the 2016 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
June 1, 2017
Well this series is firmly on my auto-buy list.
This is the third book in this epic series and starts off with a bang right into the angst as Lucius is in a bad mood and Lillian commits a transgression.
This book felt like the author resolved a story arc to a certain extent and ends with the Lillian having completed the first 18 months of her servitude.
There are 2 major projects under way. The myrcium and bright star. For now after some major intrigues they are moving forward.
The "relationship" between Lucius and Lillian seems to be moving forward , albeit at a snail pace. It is becoming obvious to me that Lucius feels more for his apprentice than he realizes. Comments like you seem to arouse strong emotions in people. I find I am not immune and primitive emotions. His freak out every time she is injured etc etc. His possessiveness, it all smacks off underlying emotions. Although their is no doubt that he still very much loves his wife.
Chris's place in her life also seems to be dawning on Lillian. I wonder where the author is going to take this.
My speculations ( and it can go 2 ways)
1. Lucuis' wife ( lady Estella) has a terminal illness, will her passing open up the chance of a serious ( as in not master/slave, but consort type ) relationship between Lucius and Lillian.
OR
2. Will Lillian end up with Chris once she has proved her bond.
Personally I am "team Lucius".
This is the third book in this epic series and starts off with a bang right into the angst as Lucius is in a bad mood and Lillian commits a transgression.
This book felt like the author resolved a story arc to a certain extent and ends with the Lillian having completed the first 18 months of her servitude.
There are 2 major projects under way. The myrcium and bright star. For now after some major intrigues they are moving forward.
The "relationship" between Lucius and Lillian seems to be moving forward , albeit at a snail pace. It is becoming obvious to me that Lucius feels more for his apprentice than he realizes. Comments like you seem to arouse strong emotions in people. I find I am not immune and primitive emotions. His freak out every time she is injured etc etc. His possessiveness, it all smacks off underlying emotions. Although their is no doubt that he still very much loves his wife.
Chris's place in her life also seems to be dawning on Lillian. I wonder where the author is going to take this.
My speculations ( and it can go 2 ways)
1. Lucuis' wife ( lady Estella) has a terminal illness, will her passing open up the chance of a serious ( as in not master/slave, but consort type ) relationship between Lucius and Lillian.
OR
2. Will Lillian end up with Chris once she has proved her bond.
Personally I am "team Lucius".
January 24, 2019
4.5/5.0
Okay - now the suspense and intrigue side of this series ratchets up! The subjugation of our heroine,while still there, is taking a backseat to all the political intrigue that she is unwittingly caught up in. In this installment, we grow to love Lilian's strength and integrity even more as she desperately tries to stay true to her obligations to Lucias while keeping her and her family safe.
The relationship between her and Lucias is still the same but very subtly the reader sees a connection and bond that is forming and strengthening. That, at least helps counteract just a bit the overall offensiveness of her situation.
This series is becoming an un-put-downable ride! On to the next!
Okay - now the suspense and intrigue side of this series ratchets up! The subjugation of our heroine,while still there, is taking a backseat to all the political intrigue that she is unwittingly caught up in. In this installment, we grow to love Lilian's strength and integrity even more as she desperately tries to stay true to her obligations to Lucias while keeping her and her family safe.
The relationship between her and Lucias is still the same but very subtly the reader sees a connection and bond that is forming and strengthening. That, at least helps counteract just a bit the overall offensiveness of her situation.
This series is becoming an un-put-downable ride! On to the next!
September 4, 2016
E.G. Manetti does it again!
For me, this third installment in her 12 Systems series is the most promising one yet. Lilian's struggles are further illuminated by glimpses into her past and how they relate to her dedication to restoring her honor. Those, like myself, who enjoy the complex society that Manetti has created, will be eager to know that the world building attributes continue in Transgressions. Even Lucius becomes somewhat more agreeable, as his attitude changes in regard to how he views Lilian.
This book is full of intrigue as the competing cartouches come up with new and devious ploys in which to thwart Lucius rise to preeminence. Lilian's trial by ordeal is by no means becoming any easier, as vipers lay in the waiting at every turn. Sometimes it takes a careful eye to keep track of who all the players are in this dangerous game.
The science fiction aspect of Transgressions is perhaps the most notable of the three installments to date. I remember reading The Cartel and Bright Star, hoping for more of this important component. Whether it be The Moon Races, trips to The Great Crevasse, the new Laser Sting technology, or learning about the history of the 12 Systems, including the time of The Anarchy, Transgressions delves more deeply than its predecessors.
A must read for fans of the series.
For me, this third installment in her 12 Systems series is the most promising one yet. Lilian's struggles are further illuminated by glimpses into her past and how they relate to her dedication to restoring her honor. Those, like myself, who enjoy the complex society that Manetti has created, will be eager to know that the world building attributes continue in Transgressions. Even Lucius becomes somewhat more agreeable, as his attitude changes in regard to how he views Lilian.
This book is full of intrigue as the competing cartouches come up with new and devious ploys in which to thwart Lucius rise to preeminence. Lilian's trial by ordeal is by no means becoming any easier, as vipers lay in the waiting at every turn. Sometimes it takes a careful eye to keep track of who all the players are in this dangerous game.
The science fiction aspect of Transgressions is perhaps the most notable of the three installments to date. I remember reading The Cartel and Bright Star, hoping for more of this important component. Whether it be The Moon Races, trips to The Great Crevasse, the new Laser Sting technology, or learning about the history of the 12 Systems, including the time of The Anarchy, Transgressions delves more deeply than its predecessors.
A must read for fans of the series.
January 26, 2016
The world build is extremely well done. The wording style chosen is an excellent match to the story line, even if it takes a bit of getting used to. The seamless interweave between the characters, the religion, the technology and the story setting is extremely well done. The plot is highly layered and the chacters actions completely in sync with the world they live in. There are even different points of view of this odd (to us) society that has been constructed - and some of the outside views are more aligned to our (the readers) views - which the characters in the story then disparage very nicely (the warriors and the universilists do not think much of eachother). The logic behind the warrior view of life is tightly done, but makes me squirm - none the less.
The last time I saw a world this well constructed was Foundation - by Asimov. Even the morality and near slavery of some in this world is rationally explained, if a bit grating on our modern sensabilities.
Can not wait for the next book.
The last time I saw a world this well constructed was Foundation - by Asimov. Even the morality and near slavery of some in this world is rationally explained, if a bit grating on our modern sensabilities.
Can not wait for the next book.
April 24, 2016
This is an enthralling continuation of the adventures of Lilian, the cast-off daughter of a true scoundrel. The plot evolves cleverly within the constraints and intrigue of a quasi-feudal interstellar society. Having read the first 2 stories recently, some of the "refresher" sections were a bit repetitive. And while the sex is still important to the story, it isn't quite as inventive or intense as the earlier stories.
The final(?) entry in the series won't be out until 2017, and I look forward to that.
The final(?) entry in the series won't be out until 2017, and I look forward to that.
February 15, 2019
I don't understand the author. You have to read this story starting with book 1. I can't believe a reader can start at book 3 and understand what's going on, no matter how much recaps bits you put in it.
Second, this book could have been 150 pages shorter. Nothing's going on most of the first half. And there is tons of recaps. Tons and tons. It was very disappointing.
The second half was much better; much less recaps, and some action!
Without the recaps, this book is a 4 stars.
EDIT: if you think to stop here, don't! The writing improve in the next two books! Much less recaps!
Second, this book could have been 150 pages shorter. Nothing's going on most of the first half. And there is tons of recaps. Tons and tons. It was very disappointing.
The second half was much better; much less recaps, and some action!
Without the recaps, this book is a 4 stars.
EDIT: if you think to stop here, don't! The writing improve in the next two books! Much less recaps!
April 3, 2019
It's already finished, rhhaaaaaa ! I need the next !
Well, I should write something more constructive for a review...
Let's see : slow (very slow) burn romance, science-fiction that doesn't feel too foreign but just... apart, a society based on commerce cartels after the wildness of Anarchy, a particular language (yet easily understandable), strict control everywhere, a terrific suspense, very good characters that really stand out, a pinch of paranormal and hot sex ?
I'm usually not the one to read sagas about trade and evil villains hurting helpless characters, but those so-called helpless characters can be crafty and reach their goals nonetheless. I'm completely addicted to this series : I should have waited to buy the next book, if I'd been reasonable, until the next month but I simply *couldn't* wait !
And now that I'm writing this review, I've already began reading Fortuna, book #4, and it looks promising ^^
Well, I should write something more constructive for a review...
Let's see : slow (very slow) burn romance, science-fiction that doesn't feel too foreign but just... apart, a society based on commerce cartels after the wildness of Anarchy, a particular language (yet easily understandable), strict control everywhere, a terrific suspense, very good characters that really stand out, a pinch of paranormal and hot sex ?
I'm usually not the one to read sagas about trade and evil villains hurting helpless characters, but those so-called helpless characters can be crafty and reach their goals nonetheless. I'm completely addicted to this series : I should have waited to buy the next book, if I'd been reasonable, until the next month but I simply *couldn't* wait !
And now that I'm writing this review, I've already began reading Fortuna, book #4, and it looks promising ^^
January 29, 2016
If you enjoyed the previous two volumes, and I did, you'll enjoy this one. Once again Lillian faces adversaries and sneak attacks whist trying to complete her Bond to Lucius. More details about Lillian's relationship with her disgraced father and his death are explained, but as with the other books I found the the intricate political plotting rather hard to follow, however, it didn't particularly detract from the story.
I've seen another review state that it isn't particularly 'scifi' but what else would you call a saga that stretched across 12 star systems and involved technology beyond human knowledge? Kudos for creating such a complex world, complete with its own idiosyncratic speech, technology, philosophy and society norms.
The only issue I have with its classification is the 'romance' tag. For me romance involves a developing loving relationship between the characters, and although Milord and Lillian seem respectful and concerned for each other, and there is plenty of sex, 'love' doesn't occur as I understand it.
I've seen another review state that it isn't particularly 'scifi' but what else would you call a saga that stretched across 12 star systems and involved technology beyond human knowledge? Kudos for creating such a complex world, complete with its own idiosyncratic speech, technology, philosophy and society norms.
The only issue I have with its classification is the 'romance' tag. For me romance involves a developing loving relationship between the characters, and although Milord and Lillian seem respectful and concerned for each other, and there is plenty of sex, 'love' doesn't occur as I understand it.
May 4, 2016
Not sure what it is about these books that keeps dragging me back in. I have never been a big fan of the characters and I feel the story line is taking forever to develop. I don't know how the next book is truly going to wrap up everything these last 3 books have started.... But nevertheless - I will be there waiting for the next one to come out - because I have some weird desire to see just where all this goes.
April 18, 2016
Loved this latest addition to the series. I enjoy watching Lilian's growth as a valuable member to the Cartel, and the interplay between all the characters. Politics are nasty, but solutions can be found. The book is well paced, and I couldn't put it down, reading til the wee hours to find out how things turned out.
Looking forward to the next one!
Looking forward to the next one!
June 9, 2016
The only bad thing about binge reading a series is when it's not yet all published and I have to wait. I'm glad that I can have a bookshelf in Goodreads for my 'waiting for publication' wishlist.
June 13, 2025
Con menos acción que los anteriores pero más intriga y política. Un poco más pausado en cuanto a ritmo, pero con momentos intensos.
Temporalmente, avanza más rápidamente que los libros anteriores, es decir, se salta más días y semanas, y en este libro trascurre casi el segundo año completo, quitando unas pocas semanas.
Por primera vez ocurren fracasos verdaderos, en el sentido en que sus enemigos son más inteligentes que ellos y se salen con la suya, con graves consecuencias para nuestra protagonista. Pero a la vez termina con un gran triunfo muy esperado aunque un poco descafeinado.
La relación entre Lilian y Lucius cada vez más interesante, con similitudes en su religión. Si no terminan juntos será decepción, y ahora mismo cualquier cosa podría pasar... Su consorcio de amistades también es muy interesante, así como las visiones de su madre.
Temporalmente, avanza más rápidamente que los libros anteriores, es decir, se salta más días y semanas, y en este libro trascurre casi el segundo año completo, quitando unas pocas semanas.
Por primera vez ocurren fracasos verdaderos, en el sentido en que sus enemigos son más inteligentes que ellos y se salen con la suya, con graves consecuencias para nuestra protagonista. Pero a la vez termina con un gran triunfo muy esperado aunque un poco descafeinado.
La relación entre Lilian y Lucius cada vez más interesante, con similitudes en su religión. Si no terminan juntos será decepción, y ahora mismo cualquier cosa podría pasar... Su consorcio de amistades también es muy interesante, así como las visiones de su madre.
June 4, 2022
This was so satisfying. After being blown away by the complexity of this world , the characters and all the plot levels, and spending the week wading through the first three books in the series I am completely invested in the outcome of the intrigues tied up in this one. What skill. Lillian’s and Lucius’ private time is still as rewarding as their commerce time and all the details of Lillian’s home life with her sister, MAmman and their spirituality make the entire series an unbelievably plausible and deeply satisfying read. I can’t find one inconsistency in behavior, intrigue or development. A Game of Thronish take on a very complex galaxy. I read the kindle version and loved this entire series So much I am going to buy the hard copies.
August 31, 2019
The series does pick up the pace in this third installment, but I still don’t know where it’s going. I’m used to the somewhat odd language by now and I can keep track of all the oversugared characters along with the ridiculously malicious ones, but the story sort of aimlessly floats around, extraneous detail interspersed with sex scenes, dream sequences, inner monologues, and sometimes what seems to be relevant action, but I’m not really feeling it. Maybe I will pick up the next book, maybe not. I can’t be sure I’d miss anything if I didn’t.
May 8, 2019
Love this series!
Unique, clever, intriguing, mysterious all words that can be used to describe both the story and the characters within it. I have not read anything truly like this series and I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the two previous. I’m curious to know how Lillian continues to fare with all the forces plotting against her and her small but loyal group of protectors including the powerful and perplexing Lucius Mercio. Very well written and highly recommended!
Unique, clever, intriguing, mysterious all words that can be used to describe both the story and the characters within it. I have not read anything truly like this series and I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the two previous. I’m curious to know how Lillian continues to fare with all the forces plotting against her and her small but loyal group of protectors including the powerful and perplexing Lucius Mercio. Very well written and highly recommended!
July 2, 2021
Excellent and intricate sci fi thriller
Although the erotic interludes are important to the story, the twists and turns of the Cartel make this book more sci fi thriller than sci fi romance. Medic Chin is still delightful, and Gloribelle is awesome. Lillian continues to be an amazing character. I am enjoying this series.
Although the erotic interludes are important to the story, the twists and turns of the Cartel make this book more sci fi thriller than sci fi romance. Medic Chin is still delightful, and Gloribelle is awesome. Lillian continues to be an amazing character. I am enjoying this series.
August 9, 2022
4.5
The thread of the story grows stronger. The reader should be aware that while there is a good stopping point for the action in each book, this tale is a continuing saga with the actual ending occurring in book 10.
The thread of the story grows stronger. The reader should be aware that while there is a good stopping point for the action in each book, this tale is a continuing saga with the actual ending occurring in book 10.
August 28, 2016
I won a copy of this story in a wonderful Goodreads group event.
This is the third story in this series. The characters are well developed and the author did a great job of flowing the story between each book. The details give a bright visual in your mind of what each character is enduring. Defiantly looking forward to reading book 4.
This is the third story in this series. The characters are well developed and the author did a great job of flowing the story between each book. The details give a bright visual in your mind of what each character is enduring. Defiantly looking forward to reading book 4.
Want to Read
October 9, 2017**I won this book by winning one of the BDSM Group Games during their 7th Anniversary Celebration 2016**
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