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The Diabolic #3
The Nemesis
In the heart-pounding conclusion to the New York Times bestselling Diabolic series, the Empire teeters on the edge of destruction as rumors spread that Nemesis is still alive.
Three years ago, Tyrus Domitrian shocked the universe by killing the woman he swore to love forever. The woman for whom he upended the Empire. The woman with whom he wanted to build a new, and brighter, future.
Now, the once-idealistic heir apparent has become the cruel Emperor Tyrus, wielding his authority with an iron fist, capable of destroying galaxies with a single word, controlling all technology with a simple thought. He has bent the Grandiolquy to their knees, and none have the power to stand against him.
But there is a muttering among the Excess. They say that Nemesis is not truly gone. They mutter of her shadow spotted in distant galaxies. They say that Nemesis lives. That she will rise, and rally the people to topple man who was once her truest love—and is now her fiercest enemy.
Three years ago, Tyrus Domitrian shocked the universe by killing the woman he swore to love forever. The woman for whom he upended the Empire. The woman with whom he wanted to build a new, and brighter, future.
Now, the once-idealistic heir apparent has become the cruel Emperor Tyrus, wielding his authority with an iron fist, capable of destroying galaxies with a single word, controlling all technology with a simple thought. He has bent the Grandiolquy to their knees, and none have the power to stand against him.
But there is a muttering among the Excess. They say that Nemesis is not truly gone. They mutter of her shadow spotted in distant galaxies. They say that Nemesis lives. That she will rise, and rally the people to topple man who was once her truest love—and is now her fiercest enemy.
416 pages, Hardcover
First published August 25, 2020
125 people are currently reading
8493 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 504 reviews
March 24, 2021
Present:
So I finally, FINALLY, had the chance to read/hear this book. I loved book 2 and I don't know why exactly but I did not connect at all, with the plot, with the characters, with anything.
I feel sad, bye.
Past:
I WANT IT NOW!!!! NOW NOW NOW NOW NOW NOW NOW
So I finally, FINALLY, had the chance to read/hear this book. I loved book 2 and I don't know why exactly but I did not connect at all, with the plot, with the characters, with anything.
I feel sad, bye.
Past:
I WANT IT NOW!!!! NOW NOW NOW NOW NOW NOW NOW
September 3, 2020
'always' 5 stars
To imagine how I feel right now, right after finishing the book, insert every possible gif of sobbing, devastated people. And a few smiling like maniacs.
I was terrified of this book. Full of panic about starting it. And finishing it. Because what if it was awful? And heart-breaking? And devastating? How would I recover from that?!?
And it was all that.
It was also beautiful. And glorious. And it will always be one of my favorite series'.
I cried. At one point my dog came to check on me because I was crying so hard.
I also laughed and smiled and gasped in disbelief.
Seriously, it was a roller coaster of emotions. And I would do it all over again.
I can't even tell you what happens in this book because it's too much.
But I will tell you that the ending is amazing. Bitter-sweet and full of hope. If we ever get an additional epilogue about Nemesis and Tyrus it'll be one of the best things that will ever happen to me.
I have loved, loved this series. It has one of the most powerful and trilling romances that I've ever read. And the story was full of surprises and unbelievable moments.
You absolutely know that a series was perfect when you're equally sad and happy to see it end.
would definitely, forever recommend
To imagine how I feel right now, right after finishing the book, insert every possible gif of sobbing, devastated people. And a few smiling like maniacs.
I was terrified of this book. Full of panic about starting it. And finishing it. Because what if it was awful? And heart-breaking? And devastating? How would I recover from that?!?
And it was all that.
It was also beautiful. And glorious. And it will always be one of my favorite series'.
I cried. At one point my dog came to check on me because I was crying so hard.
I also laughed and smiled and gasped in disbelief.
Seriously, it was a roller coaster of emotions. And I would do it all over again.
I can't even tell you what happens in this book because it's too much.
But I will tell you that the ending is amazing. Bitter-sweet and full of hope. If we ever get an additional epilogue about Nemesis and Tyrus it'll be one of the best things that will ever happen to me.
I have loved, loved this series. It has one of the most powerful and trilling romances that I've ever read. And the story was full of surprises and unbelievable moments.
You absolutely know that a series was perfect when you're equally sad and happy to see it end.
would definitely, forever recommend
April 10, 2018
The first book I thought was fabulous and I would have been happy if it was left alone, BUT NOOO.
a second book that could crush my heart and soul had to come along. I felt exactly like like Nemesis did at the end of the second book, devoid of emotion, yet with a crushed heart.
When I was reading the beginning of the second book I knew it was to perfect to last, so of course that happened. I know that this book will ruin me but it will be amazing at the same time.
a second book that could crush my heart and soul had to come along. I felt exactly like like Nemesis did at the end of the second book, devoid of emotion, yet with a crushed heart.
When I was reading the beginning of the second book I knew it was to perfect to last, so of course that happened. I know that this book will ruin me but it will be amazing at the same time.
September 14, 2020
"We'd vowed to make this galaxy better.
He'd had such beautiful dreams.
How to salvage a dream, when the dreamer himself had been destroyed?"
I am speechless. This book made me legit cry 😭
I need time--ya'll are not ready for this devastation.
"What good was a fight without something to defend? Even Diabolics needed love to power our hate."
The Nemesis took a long time to reach us, but by the gods was it worth the wait. The Diabolic was a good, fun read. It had its moments of devastation, but overall you got the feeling that everything would somehow work itself out. In Empress you soon realized that happiness was not something built to last, as S J Kincaid basically ripped our hearts out. The Nemesis? uuuuf. Empress upped the stakes and Nemesis delivered the punch.
All the characters have layers upon layers of complicated histories--Neveni for one; I wanted to literally strangle her on various occasions. She went from a sweet girl/friend, to basically the most hunted terrorist in the galaxy. Talk about a 180! I just couldn't understand why Nemesis kept forgiving her for everything she did, but then that is the burden of a Diabolic, to love fiercely even when they shouldn't and to protect those they love even from themselves. I wouldn't have forgiven her, so Nemesis is a much better person than me. I loved that Anguish is now part of the team! He is a lot of times the voice of reason, and the one who SEES things for what they are. Anguish and Nemesis' brother/sister relationship was just what was needed in this very dark novel. They were a breath of fresh air, and gave each of them someone outside of a romantic relationship to hold on to.
"For their young Emperor had turned into a terror, a creature of unpredictable moods and merciless whims."
TYRUS--I feel like anything said about Tyrus would be spoilery; let's just say he is one of the most interesting characters in the series and he delivers 1000x times in this novel. I do so hate to place a beloved character in the role of a villain, but it is the complicated kind of hate where I love where Kincaid took the story but it hurts to see them in that position.
Oh and Nemesis-I loved that in this book is where we get I think the truest face of Nemesis, not a full Diabolic, not a human, but a blend of both. Which, duh, the title of the novel but it is so true. Nemesis has been struggling with her identity from the first time she had to become Donia, and I think she finally found the balance needed to live her best life. We get to see her suffer a lot, because of Tyrus, a bit because of Anguish. We also get to see her struggle with her love for Donia and how complicated it is since she is the whole reason Nemesis even begun to think she could be more.
I would have loved to see a short novella or something of how the Empire looks thousands of years later. What changes Nemesis and co brought to the galaxy. The novel ends on a perfect note, so it is just curiosity. I am so looking forward to whatever S. J. Kincaid writes next!! I love all her books, including her first series Insignia. She is a master storyteller. She writes the first book in a way that makes the reader fall in love with the world and characters, getting you comfortable, only to pull the rug from under you and deliver sequels which are wonderful and layered and gut wrenching but ultimately smart and human 🖤
PS; I was provided a review copy in exchange for an honest review. Thanks go to the publisher!
He'd had such beautiful dreams.
How to salvage a dream, when the dreamer himself had been destroyed?"
I am speechless. This book made me legit cry 😭
"What good was a fight without something to defend? Even Diabolics needed love to power our hate."
The Nemesis took a long time to reach us, but by the gods was it worth the wait. The Diabolic was a good, fun read. It had its moments of devastation, but overall you got the feeling that everything would somehow work itself out. In Empress you soon realized that happiness was not something built to last, as S J Kincaid basically ripped our hearts out. The Nemesis? uuuuf. Empress upped the stakes and Nemesis delivered the punch.
All the characters have layers upon layers of complicated histories--Neveni for one; I wanted to literally strangle her on various occasions. She went from a sweet girl/friend, to basically the most hunted terrorist in the galaxy. Talk about a 180! I just couldn't understand why Nemesis kept forgiving her for everything she did, but then that is the burden of a Diabolic, to love fiercely even when they shouldn't and to protect those they love even from themselves. I wouldn't have forgiven her, so Nemesis is a much better person than me. I loved that Anguish is now part of the team! He is a lot of times the voice of reason, and the one who SEES things for what they are. Anguish and Nemesis' brother/sister relationship was just what was needed in this very dark novel. They were a breath of fresh air, and gave each of them someone outside of a romantic relationship to hold on to.
"For their young Emperor had turned into a terror, a creature of unpredictable moods and merciless whims."
TYRUS--I feel like anything said about Tyrus would be spoilery; let's just say he is one of the most interesting characters in the series and he delivers 1000x times in this novel. I do so hate to place a beloved character in the role of a villain, but it is the complicated kind of hate where I love where Kincaid took the story but it hurts to see them in that position.
Oh and Nemesis-I loved that in this book is where we get I think the truest face of Nemesis, not a full Diabolic, not a human, but a blend of both. Which, duh, the title of the novel but it is so true. Nemesis has been struggling with her identity from the first time she had to become Donia, and I think she finally found the balance needed to live her best life. We get to see her suffer a lot, because of Tyrus, a bit because of Anguish. We also get to see her struggle with her love for Donia and how complicated it is since she is the whole reason Nemesis even begun to think she could be more.
I would have loved to see a short novella or something of how the Empire looks thousands of years later. What changes Nemesis and co brought to the galaxy. The novel ends on a perfect note, so it is just curiosity. I am so looking forward to whatever S. J. Kincaid writes next!! I love all her books, including her first series Insignia. She is a master storyteller. She writes the first book in a way that makes the reader fall in love with the world and characters, getting you comfortable, only to pull the rug from under you and deliver sequels which are wonderful and layered and gut wrenching but ultimately smart and human 🖤
PS; I was provided a review copy in exchange for an honest review. Thanks go to the publisher!
Want to read
March 24, 20203/24/2020
At last a release date! The new cover is alright too lol
---
The cover is nice! I might re-start the series once we get a confirmation on the release date for this one.
- - -
So the audiobook edition says February 2020, like wtf that's so far!
I put the second book on pause because I read some reviews that said it had a heartbreaking ending and I was not ready to have to wait a year to find out the ending. Now I am thankful I did because I cannot imagine waiting as long as some people have been.
At last a release date! The new cover is alright too lol
---
The cover is nice! I might re-start the series once we get a confirmation on the release date for this one.
- - -
So the audiobook edition says February 2020, like wtf that's so far!
I put the second book on pause because I read some reviews that said it had a heartbreaking ending and I was not ready to have to wait a year to find out the ending. Now I am thankful I did because I cannot imagine waiting as long as some people have been.
January 13, 2021
DNF at 7%
Please, someone, write a spoiler-ish review 'cause I can't read it anymore. Idk what happened in between i-need-this-book-right-now and i-refuse-to-deal-with-it, but here I am, ditching the final I've been waiting for a year.
Of course, I'm a bit curious about the ending, but I already know that Kincaid played you-got-him-wrong-he's-actually-good card and couldn't find anyone else to betray the MC over and over and over but Neveni, soooo not sure what might surprise me in the end.
Space stuff and the book mythology though, ugh, I wanted to learn more, but Nemesis's angst is all over the place... and the writing has changed. It's a 1 start for me.
![Profile Image for laurel [the suspected bibliophile].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1645808644i%2F7494844._UX200_CR0%2C6%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
October 24, 2020
Okay, I truly, honestly feel that everyone has been sleeping on this YA series.
And it disappoints me.
Because generic ensemble poo rises in YA sci-fi, and the twisty, turny, complex (ish) and delicious mess that is the Diabolic trilogy sinks into oblivion.
I'm not going to talk a whole lot about this one, because #spoilers, but I will give three reasons on why you should check out this trilogy:
1. It takes a contemplative look on what makes humanity human
2. It has characters and plotlines that are just as amorally gray and hopelessly twisted as The Folk of the Air trilogy
3. Solid. Fucking. Sci. Fi.
4. Bonus! It takes a lot of YA tropes and has fun with them :)
Anywho, despite a beginning that was heavily in the YA mode of the third book in a series, as in, heroine recovering/hiding from what has happened in the previous several books, it recovers and Nemesis got to be as diabolical and heroic as she needed to be. Truths were learned about the empire. Tyrus was a monster. Nemesis had her heart wrung out. Side characters got their due. Rebellions were fought. Battles won. And black holes were...there.
As to the final plot twist. Tyrus had a dark descent into megalomania and madness, and there were so many, many parallels to the Trump administration that I was just reeling from the implications. There were not-so-subtle hints of Rome before Caligula and Nero, and the dancing of the elite upon the graves of the exploited, that I was like oh wow yeah she really went here.
And then the final twist, and I was mildly disappointed because it was very YA typical and annoying. Just let people be bad, dammit.
I received this ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
And it disappoints me.
Because generic ensemble poo rises in YA sci-fi, and the twisty, turny, complex (ish) and delicious mess that is the Diabolic trilogy sinks into oblivion.
I'm not going to talk a whole lot about this one, because #spoilers, but I will give three reasons on why you should check out this trilogy:
1. It takes a contemplative look on what makes humanity human
2. It has characters and plotlines that are just as amorally gray and hopelessly twisted as The Folk of the Air trilogy
3. Solid. Fucking. Sci. Fi.
4. Bonus! It takes a lot of YA tropes and has fun with them :)
Anywho, despite a beginning that was heavily in the YA mode of the third book in a series, as in, heroine recovering/hiding from what has happened in the previous several books, it recovers and Nemesis got to be as diabolical and heroic as she needed to be. Truths were learned about the empire. Tyrus was a monster. Nemesis had her heart wrung out. Side characters got their due. Rebellions were fought. Battles won. And black holes were...there.
As to the final plot twist. Tyrus had a dark descent into megalomania and madness, and there were so many, many parallels to the Trump administration that I was just reeling from the implications. There were not-so-subtle hints of Rome before Caligula and Nero, and the dancing of the elite upon the graves of the exploited, that I was like oh wow yeah she really went here.
And then the final twist, and I was mildly disappointed because it was very YA typical and annoying. Just let people be bad, dammit.
I received this ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
Want to read
July 11, 2019this is BEAUTIFUL. best cover in the series. and I'd be lying if I say I remember anything from book 1 or 2 but I'm itching to read it still!
Want to read
August 4, 2018ok, someone please explain to me why we haven't gotten any info on this book because I NEED THIS SERIES TO WRAP UP I can't live without this type of closure it's supposedly coming out later this year
but that's obviously not happening!!! ahhh!!
but that's obviously not happening!!! ahhh!!
August 14, 2020
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
Series authors take note, this is how you end a series! I will obviously be keeping this one vague/short because series finale and all, but if you hadn't started because you've been let down by series in the past... yeah, this was one of my favorite series enders of... well, ever. So let me tell you all about what was awesome!
►Such high stakes! The whole series is full of high stakes, and this book is no different. The fates of our main characters are always in question, but that too of the universe around them. Add to it, the author isn't exactly shy about killing characters, so no one is like, guaranteed safe here.
►Morally gray, my fave! You all know how much I love an "impossible decision" by now, yeah? Well, they are aplenty in this series, especially in this finale!
►The characters go through a lot of change and development and growth. Again, I have to be vague (series are so hard to review, right?) but the characters have all changed so much from when we first meet them. Add to it that even more minor characters are really well developed, so it makes the reader care and connect for so many characters!
►I had so, so many feels. My emotions were amped during this book. And, all over the place! Which, I think is a huge win for any reading experience.
►I was not, for one minute, bored. The pacing was spot-on for me, a great balance of action and character-driven plot points, I absolutely never wanted to put the book down. At the same time, I loved it so much that I didn't want the series to end, and frankly that is the best way for a series to end!
Bottom Line: Honestly, the best of the series right here. It was so engaging and exciting and full of intense emotions and equally intense character development.
Series authors take note, this is how you end a series! I will obviously be keeping this one vague/short because series finale and all, but if you hadn't started because you've been let down by series in the past... yeah, this was one of my favorite series enders of... well, ever. So let me tell you all about what was awesome!
►Such high stakes! The whole series is full of high stakes, and this book is no different. The fates of our main characters are always in question, but that too of the universe around them. Add to it, the author isn't exactly shy about killing characters, so no one is like, guaranteed safe here.
►Morally gray, my fave! You all know how much I love an "impossible decision" by now, yeah? Well, they are aplenty in this series, especially in this finale!
►The characters go through a lot of change and development and growth. Again, I have to be vague (series are so hard to review, right?) but the characters have all changed so much from when we first meet them. Add to it that even more minor characters are really well developed, so it makes the reader care and connect for so many characters!
►I had so, so many feels. My emotions were amped during this book. And, all over the place! Which, I think is a huge win for any reading experience.
►I was not, for one minute, bored. The pacing was spot-on for me, a great balance of action and character-driven plot points, I absolutely never wanted to put the book down. At the same time, I loved it so much that I didn't want the series to end, and frankly that is the best way for a series to end!
Bottom Line: Honestly, the best of the series right here. It was so engaging and exciting and full of intense emotions and equally intense character development.
August 26, 2020
What. A. ROLLER COASTER. Being the third and final book in a trilogy, I went in with certain expectations: action, death, more action, love, overthrow evil government, happily ever after. And I got most of that, but not in the way I expected.
This book began with a time jump that saw Nemesis and Tyrus separated as enemies. Now typically when prep-for-action sequences happen I tend to get quite impatient because I just want the main characters to be back in the same room. In this book however, I felt that Kincaid did a wonderful job of keeping the plot moving swiftly and kept the main couple *just* close enough to maintain their relationship (read: animosity).
Along with fast paced battle scenes and ridiculous upper class displays of frivolity, this book was packed with so much feeling. Nemesis, once an unfeeling creature, experiences such a deep range of emotions, and Kincaid brings us along with Nemesis as she experiences doubt, disgust, hatred, hope, love, and terror toward and for the man she loves. Maybe it was just me (I'm a weeper), but I found Nemesis' emotional struggle throughout the novel particularly strong. In moments when it felt like the main relationship was unbalanced and one character was making decisions for the other, for the sake of the other without consulting, the characters actually addressed it. This was a surprisingly refreshing development in the Nemesis/ Tyrus relationship. Their love was flawed, and they knew it and tried to work within it without totally sacrificing their ultimate cause. Love was second, because it had to be.
While some of the characters' schemes and plots got a little convoluted at times (plans on plans on plans on plans - and all of them are secret because communication is completely unnecessary when one is trying to overthrow the government apparently) this was a great conclusion to the Diabolic trilogy. It both thwarted my expectations, yet left me satisfied with the ending. And of course, I've been left wanting more. I'm looking forward to returning to this world in a reread.
*Digital ARC provided by Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review
This book began with a time jump that saw Nemesis and Tyrus separated as enemies. Now typically when prep-for-action sequences happen I tend to get quite impatient because I just want the main characters to be back in the same room. In this book however, I felt that Kincaid did a wonderful job of keeping the plot moving swiftly and kept the main couple *just* close enough to maintain their relationship (read: animosity).
Along with fast paced battle scenes and ridiculous upper class displays of frivolity, this book was packed with so much feeling. Nemesis, once an unfeeling creature, experiences such a deep range of emotions, and Kincaid brings us along with Nemesis as she experiences doubt, disgust, hatred, hope, love, and terror toward and for the man she loves. Maybe it was just me (I'm a weeper), but I found Nemesis' emotional struggle throughout the novel particularly strong. In moments when it felt like the main relationship was unbalanced and one character was making decisions for the other, for the sake of the other without consulting, the characters actually addressed it. This was a surprisingly refreshing development in the Nemesis/ Tyrus relationship. Their love was flawed, and they knew it and tried to work within it without totally sacrificing their ultimate cause. Love was second, because it had to be.
While some of the characters' schemes and plots got a little convoluted at times (plans on plans on plans on plans - and all of them are secret because communication is completely unnecessary when one is trying to overthrow the government apparently) this was a great conclusion to the Diabolic trilogy. It both thwarted my expectations, yet left me satisfied with the ending. And of course, I've been left wanting more. I'm looking forward to returning to this world in a reread.
*Digital ARC provided by Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review
February 23, 2025
“You're in my blood. We could be parted for centuries and I'll always recognize you.”
STOP!
This trilogy has become my favourite- I now understand why Chloe Gong fell for this. Because I have too!
Like the pain that spiked my heart while reading this was unreal.
And the love- aghh!
Honestly, this was amazing and I'm so in love right now.
Got a little emotional and had to hold back tears several times. Was really relevant too.
Remember, God sees your actions- after all, there is no futility is acts done righteously.
September 15, 2020
Wow, I LOVED this book and this series. It had a perfect conclusion in my opinion. It probably would've been even better had I reread the first books because I'm sure some of the sentiment was lost for some of the characters I had forgotten about. These books are worth the read, especially now that they're all out. If this series is in your TBR, do yourself a favor and move it to the top!
Read
December 28, 2019Ok....... I'm severely irritated now! The release date was pushed back again!!!! Now it says that the release date is 8/25/20. I CAN'T WAIT THAT LONG!!!!!!! I'm dieing here!!!!! 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
February 2, 2024
This was a satisfying conclusion to S.J.Kincaid’s fun Diabolic Trilogy. The series mixed fast paced action with a tad of romance,a fun cast of characters, and some crazy plot twists! S.J.Kincaid had an engaging writing style that made the whole trilogy a compelling read.
The plot was a little weird in this one after the shock twist towards the end of the second instalment. With Tyrus truly going insane Nemesis had to overcome her feelings for him, and her Diabolic nature to protect those she loved, in order to free folks from the tyranny of Tyrus and Senator Paesis.
It was an exciting enough tale. Plenty of action and plotting as always though perhaps a few less crazy plot twists than the previous two books but that did not overly hurt this tale as instead we got an emotional Nemesis trying to find her own strength in a tough situation that added an emotional hook to the story.
As always Nemesis was a really fun and easy to love lead character. She was super likeable but always had that ruthless edge to her thanks to her Diabolic nature. Tyrus himself was a fun character and he had a good outing in this book.
The sci-fi world remained simplistic in nature but that worked for this series as the setting and the tech were pretty cool and interesting.
All in all I enjoyed the wrap up of the Diabolic trilogy. I do rate it as one of my favourite YA series on the whole thanks to the fun characters, compelling story, and the crazy twists and turns that kept me guessing and hooked on the happenings!
Rating: 4.5 stars.
Audio Note: I felt like Candace Thaxton did a good job with the audio.
The plot was a little weird in this one after the shock twist towards the end of the second instalment. With Tyrus truly going insane Nemesis had to overcome her feelings for him, and her Diabolic nature to protect those she loved, in order to free folks from the tyranny of Tyrus and Senator Paesis.
It was an exciting enough tale. Plenty of action and plotting as always though perhaps a few less crazy plot twists than the previous two books but that did not overly hurt this tale as instead we got an emotional Nemesis trying to find her own strength in a tough situation that added an emotional hook to the story.
As always Nemesis was a really fun and easy to love lead character. She was super likeable but always had that ruthless edge to her thanks to her Diabolic nature. Tyrus himself was a fun character and he had a good outing in this book.
The sci-fi world remained simplistic in nature but that worked for this series as the setting and the tech were pretty cool and interesting.
All in all I enjoyed the wrap up of the Diabolic trilogy. I do rate it as one of my favourite YA series on the whole thanks to the fun characters, compelling story, and the crazy twists and turns that kept me guessing and hooked on the happenings!
Rating: 4.5 stars.
Audio Note: I felt like Candace Thaxton did a good job with the audio.
September 9, 2020
For being the finale, it might have been the weakest in the series. I enjoyed the first two books! But this one was... lackluster. It boiled down to: run here, experience betrayal, run here, experience betrayal, run here, experience betrayal, run here.
Even though Nemesis had trials and struggles to overcome, my heart was never pounding with uncertainty. Each situation had a convenient resolution. Whether it was passing out and being saved by someone who just happened to appear on the scene, or by throwing around the "I'm a Diabolic, you can't kill me" excuse, Nemesis powered through everything. Blasted by a ship's laser? No problem. Burning alive? Easy. Inhaling deadly toxins? No worries.
And, for goodness sake, why not just kill off Neveni? Each time she reappeared and Nemesis decided to fall in with her, wow, what a surprise, Neveni betrayed her. Again. And again. And again. And again. Wow. Who would guess. Nemesis, why are you surprised? Nemesis. Really. Again?
I don't know. Compared to the other two, the finale just wasn't as good.
Even though Nemesis had trials and struggles to overcome, my heart was never pounding with uncertainty. Each situation had a convenient resolution. Whether it was passing out and being saved by someone who just happened to appear on the scene, or by throwing around the "I'm a Diabolic, you can't kill me" excuse, Nemesis powered through everything. Blasted by a ship's laser? No problem. Burning alive? Easy. Inhaling deadly toxins? No worries.
And, for goodness sake, why not just kill off Neveni? Each time she reappeared and Nemesis decided to fall in with her, wow, what a surprise, Neveni betrayed her. Again. And again. And again. And again. Wow. Who would guess. Nemesis, why are you surprised? Nemesis. Really. Again?
I don't know. Compared to the other two, the finale just wasn't as good.
backlist-priority-tbr
August 16, 2025Why isnt there more information about this????
July 20, 2020
I waited almost three long years after finishing the second book in this series, The Empress, which nearly destroyed me. To say I was thrilled upon receiving an ARC of The Nemesis doesn't even begin to touch my level of excitement.
I'm a voracious reader, and it's rare I'm surprised by plot twists, but this series is full of them. Surprises that ripped my heart out, made me want to throw the book across the room, and even kill the characters at some points. For me, that's the sign of a crafty, clever writer, and a big reason why Diabolic will always be one of my favorite YA sci-fi series.
Nemesis's character arc has been fascinating to watch as she learns to believe she's more than just a killer created in a lab. Her strong bond with Anguish is one of my favorite aspects of this story. As much as I love her, Tyrus has always been the draw for me. No matter your intelligence, he'll always be ten steps ahead of you and out-strategize anyone. He's delightfully wicked in this final novel and has an abundance of thought-provoking ideas in that head of his. Both he and Nemesis are pushed to their breaking points, so be prepared for some nail-biting moments.
It takes a few chapters to find its stride, but the author delivers an intricately plotted, thrilling story loaded with political maneuvering - and a perfect ending in my opinion. This is a series I'll absolutely go back and read again.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I'm a voracious reader, and it's rare I'm surprised by plot twists, but this series is full of them. Surprises that ripped my heart out, made me want to throw the book across the room, and even kill the characters at some points. For me, that's the sign of a crafty, clever writer, and a big reason why Diabolic will always be one of my favorite YA sci-fi series.
Nemesis's character arc has been fascinating to watch as she learns to believe she's more than just a killer created in a lab. Her strong bond with Anguish is one of my favorite aspects of this story. As much as I love her, Tyrus has always been the draw for me. No matter your intelligence, he'll always be ten steps ahead of you and out-strategize anyone. He's delightfully wicked in this final novel and has an abundance of thought-provoking ideas in that head of his. Both he and Nemesis are pushed to their breaking points, so be prepared for some nail-biting moments.
It takes a few chapters to find its stride, but the author delivers an intricately plotted, thrilling story loaded with political maneuvering - and a perfect ending in my opinion. This is a series I'll absolutely go back and read again.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 10, 2021
Oh my gosh.
I'm so sad nowwwww, this was the last book of this trilogy... t-t
I STILL CAN'T BELIEVE THAT WAS THE ACTUAL END. I CAN'T GET OVER IT!!
ALL OF THE PLOT TWISTS AND EVERYTHING, THIS WAS SOOOOOOOOO GOOD
this trilogy is so underrated like please it deserves more hype
akslfjskd
there is nothing else to say, just go read it :)
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ahdjkah;sjhfkjdshksjhaljk
in math class so rtc but I finished this on the bus this morning
I'm so sad nowwwww, this was the last book of this trilogy... t-t
I STILL CAN'T BELIEVE THAT WAS THE ACTUAL END. I CAN'T GET OVER IT!!
ALL OF THE PLOT TWISTS AND EVERYTHING, THIS WAS SOOOOOOOOO GOOD
this trilogy is so underrated like please it deserves more hype
akslfjskd
there is nothing else to say, just go read it :)
----------
ahdjkah;sjhfkjdshksjhaljk
in math class so rtc but I finished this on the bus this morning
October 20, 2020
THE DETAILS✎ ❐ DIABOLIC #3 OF 3 ❐ FINAL BOOK IN TRILOGY (THAT WAS SUPPOSE TO BE A STAND-ALONE???) ❐ SECRETS, LIES, & SERIOUS BETRAYALS ❐ PLANETARY INTRIGUE ❐ THIS DIABOLIC IS THINKING DIABOLICALLY NOW ❐ LENGTH OF AUDIO ➯ 11 HOURS, 16 MINUTES ❐ I LISTENED ON LIBBY THROUGH MY LIBRARY
All I can say is...I'm glad this series is finished...and hopefully, I never feel the need to listen to another book narrated by Candace Thaxton again. Her voice does not gel with me...at all. I keep thinking that I can power through or that she eventually grow on me...but now, upon finishing this book, I can definitely say that's not going to happen.
Suffice it to say...I could have loved this more with a different narrator, of course. I also could have loved it more if there wasn't so much time between books...I had more or less forgotten what happened in book #2. Apparently, it was super cliffhangery, though. I tried not to let the narration influence my rating too significantly since overall this was completely unexpected, and ultimately fulfilling because it ended rather perfectly.
BREAKDOWN✎
Narration ➯ 3 STARS
Plot ➯ 4.3/5
Characters ➯ 4/5
The Feels ➯ 4/5
Pacing ➯ 4.3/5
Addictiveness ➯ 3.5/5
Theme/Tone/Intensity ➯ 4/5
Originality ➯ 4/5
Flow (Writing Style/Ease of Listening) ➯ 3.5/5
World-Building ➯ 4.3/5
Ending ➯ 4/5
SUMMATION ➯ 4 STARS
All I can say is...I'm glad this series is finished...and hopefully, I never feel the need to listen to another book narrated by Candace Thaxton again. Her voice does not gel with me...at all. I keep thinking that I can power through or that she eventually grow on me...but now, upon finishing this book, I can definitely say that's not going to happen.
Suffice it to say...I could have loved this more with a different narrator, of course. I also could have loved it more if there wasn't so much time between books...I had more or less forgotten what happened in book #2. Apparently, it was super cliffhangery, though. I tried not to let the narration influence my rating too significantly since overall this was completely unexpected, and ultimately fulfilling because it ended rather perfectly.
BREAKDOWN✎
Narration ➯ 3 STARS
Plot ➯ 4.3/5
Characters ➯ 4/5
The Feels ➯ 4/5
Pacing ➯ 4.3/5
Addictiveness ➯ 3.5/5
Theme/Tone/Intensity ➯ 4/5
Originality ➯ 4/5
Flow (Writing Style/Ease of Listening) ➯ 3.5/5
World-Building ➯ 4.3/5
Ending ➯ 4/5
SUMMATION ➯ 4 STARS
August 20, 2020
It’s hard to describe how absolutely terrified I was to read this book. I picked this series up on a whim, and it very quickly turned into one of my favorites. S.J. Kincaid managed to communicate so much longing and tension and heartbreak in Tyrus and Nemesis’s relationship, and they’ve become one of my favorite literary couples of all time. So I’m sure you can imagine my fear after the ending of The Empress.
If the long wait was the price we had to pay to get this incredible book, then I’m thankful for it. I don’t know why I ever doubted Kincaid; this was a beautiful conclusion to such an emotional series. I ugly cried a lot while reading The Nemesis, and at one point actually had to set it down for a moment to compose myself.
This series reminds me a bit of Holly Black’s The Folk of the Air in its gradual build in tension, incredible romance, and twisty plot. But where the final book in Holly’s trilogy fell through, Kincaid’s conclusion shined. The Nemesis was every bit as surprising and convoluted as the previous books in the series.
There were really no wasted words in this story. Each reveal was carefully built up, but never obvious. The style of writing was action packed, but still managed to convey the intense emotions experienced by the characters, perhaps because it didn’t linger in overly purple prose.
The content of the book itself is heavy as well. This story, while it heavily lingers on Tyrus and Nemesis, is at its heart about the kinds of injustice that can be perpetuated when all authority is invested in a single individual, no matter how well-intentioned they may be. The Nemesis examines the struggles of those who hope to overturn that system in favor of one that is more resistant to corruption and works more effectively to help its citizens.
This is a topic that is already fairly impactful on its own, but becomes even more so when viewed through the eyes of Nemesis, Tyrus, Neveni, and Anguish – people that have been hurt by the system and forced to make impossible choices that place the good of the many over their own hopes and love.
Which brings me to Tyrus and Nemesis. It’s incredibly difficult to discuss their relationship without revealing anything about this book, and I think that this is a book best experienced with no spoilers. So please, don’t open the following spoiler unless you’ve read the book.
There’s a bittersweet sort of agony that comes with finishing a favorite series. I desperately want to know the ending, but reaching that point means that I can no longer experience new adventures with the characters that I love.
I could not be any happier with how this final book unfolded. And while I will always want more of this series, it stands as a perfect whole as is.
If the long wait was the price we had to pay to get this incredible book, then I’m thankful for it. I don’t know why I ever doubted Kincaid; this was a beautiful conclusion to such an emotional series. I ugly cried a lot while reading The Nemesis, and at one point actually had to set it down for a moment to compose myself.
This series reminds me a bit of Holly Black’s The Folk of the Air in its gradual build in tension, incredible romance, and twisty plot. But where the final book in Holly’s trilogy fell through, Kincaid’s conclusion shined. The Nemesis was every bit as surprising and convoluted as the previous books in the series.
There were really no wasted words in this story. Each reveal was carefully built up, but never obvious. The style of writing was action packed, but still managed to convey the intense emotions experienced by the characters, perhaps because it didn’t linger in overly purple prose.
The content of the book itself is heavy as well. This story, while it heavily lingers on Tyrus and Nemesis, is at its heart about the kinds of injustice that can be perpetuated when all authority is invested in a single individual, no matter how well-intentioned they may be. The Nemesis examines the struggles of those who hope to overturn that system in favor of one that is more resistant to corruption and works more effectively to help its citizens.
This is a topic that is already fairly impactful on its own, but becomes even more so when viewed through the eyes of Nemesis, Tyrus, Neveni, and Anguish – people that have been hurt by the system and forced to make impossible choices that place the good of the many over their own hopes and love.
Which brings me to Tyrus and Nemesis. It’s incredibly difficult to discuss their relationship without revealing anything about this book, and I think that this is a book best experienced with no spoilers. So please, don’t open the following spoiler unless you’ve read the book.
There’s a bittersweet sort of agony that comes with finishing a favorite series. I desperately want to know the ending, but reaching that point means that I can no longer experience new adventures with the characters that I love.
I could not be any happier with how this final book unfolded. And while I will always want more of this series, it stands as a perfect whole as is.
September 1, 2020
Due to the long three year wait, I went into this finale with the highest of expectations. Kincaid did not disappoint. The was plenty of action and countless twists and turns. I've had such a love/hate relationship with Tyrus, and he lived up to his antihero, but you love him regardless, persona.
I can't wait for whatever Kincaid delivers next.
I can't wait for whatever Kincaid delivers next.
Want to read
July 27, 2018So...I'm getting the vibe this isn't actually coming out in 2018...
Any updates on my favorite, highly dysfunctional Empress and Emperor?
Any updates on my favorite, highly dysfunctional Empress and Emperor?
Want to read
August 10, 2018JULY 2019 YOU'VE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME /cries/
Want to read
January 4, 2021FOR THE LOVE OF GOD! DOES ANYONE KNOW WHEN THIS IS COMING OUT?!
December 5, 2020
I had to wait 3!! years after that shocking cliffhanger, but it was totally worth it ❤️
June 8, 2022
God that was so depressing what the actual f*ck.
I was not mentally stable enough for that.
4.5 stars.
I was not mentally stable enough for that.
4.5 stars.
August 28, 2020
Well that was... not good.
Review to come, when I gather my notes.
Review to come, when I gather my notes.
January 15, 2025
این سه جلدی جذاب هم به پایان رسید و باید بگم منو به سفر خیلی خوبی برد. (≖ᴗ≖)
شخصیت نمسیس و رشد و تغییر و تحولاتش رو از یک قاتل/محافظ بیاحساس به شخصیتی که احساسات انسانی درونش نمود پیدا میکنه، خیلی خیلی دوست داشتم.
از شخصیتهای جذاب و فراموشنشدنی بود برای من.
امتیازم بهخاطر پایان قشنگش چهارونیم ستاره هست.
پنج ستاره رو فعلاً نگه میدارم تا ببینم امسال چه کتابی میخونم که قلب و روح و ذهنمو تماماً به تسخیر خودش درمیاره. ^^
(براش یه معرفی زیر کتاب اول اضافه میکنم.)
شخصیت نمسیس و رشد و تغییر و تحولاتش رو از یک قاتل/محافظ بیاحساس به شخصیتی که احساسات انسانی درونش نمود پیدا میکنه، خیلی خیلی دوست داشتم.
از شخصیتهای جذاب و فراموشنشدنی بود برای من.
امتیازم بهخاطر پایان قشنگش چهارونیم ستاره هست.
پنج ستاره رو فعلاً نگه میدارم تا ببینم امسال چه کتابی میخونم که قلب و روح و ذهنمو تماماً به تسخیر خودش درمیاره. ^^
(براش یه معرفی زیر کتاب اول اضافه میکنم.)
March 9, 2025
This was a solid conclusion to a great sci-fi trilogy!
Tyrus makes it SO hard to decipher what is real and what is a lie, so I can understand why Nemesis mistrusted him. I did too! I thought he was very well written because I could never guess what he would do next or what his true motive was.
So, I have mixed feelings about the ending.
This review was originally posted on Novel Heartbeat. To see a breakdown of my assessment, please visit the full review here.
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