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Matsumoto Trilogy #1
The Ex-Pacifist
Vera and her bodyguard, Roman, are connected by the computers in their heads. They can silently co-ordinate and comment on the world around them. The downside? They’re on an impossible mission set by a vengeful emperor who would prefer to see them both dead. Not many sixteen-year-olds have to fight an entire empire for survival – and not many would be so good at it. A young adult science fiction thriller with epic themes of family, duty, and conscience, a diverse cast, non-stop action and romantic subplots that echo the work of S. J. Kincaid’s “The Diabolic” or Suzanne Collins’ “The Hunger Games.”
335 pages, Paperback
First published October 20, 2011
30 people are currently reading
182 people want to read
About the author
Sarah K.L. Wilson
159 books1,095 followersSarah K. L. Wilson is a USA Today Bestselling author who writes fantasy stories featuring practical heroes & heroines in the most impractical circumstances. She loves writing because it is the only way to make a living and give back to the world when your primary skill is an overactive imagination and a tendency toward violent daydreams.
Sarah can be found in the outdoors of Northern Ontario with her young boys and beloved husband, reading a book, or fending off her husband's pet turkeys with a straw broom.
You can find Sarah's books in paperback, hardcover, ebook and audiobook and they have also been translated into Italian, German, and (very soon) Turkish.
Please, do, enjoy the read!
*USA Today bestseller list, November 2, 2017
www.sarahklwilson.com
sarah@sarahklwilson.com
Instagram @sarahklwilson
Facebook @sarahklwilson
TikTok @sarahklwilson
Sarah can be found in the outdoors of Northern Ontario with her young boys and beloved husband, reading a book, or fending off her husband's pet turkeys with a straw broom.
You can find Sarah's books in paperback, hardcover, ebook and audiobook and they have also been translated into Italian, German, and (very soon) Turkish.
Please, do, enjoy the read!
*USA Today bestseller list, November 2, 2017
www.sarahklwilson.com
sarah@sarahklwilson.com
Instagram @sarahklwilson
Facebook @sarahklwilson
TikTok @sarahklwilson
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
May 8, 2017
Vera is the the pacifist who is shown in the opening scene to be standing in a pool of blood.
I found this instantly intriguing and went on to finish this tale that is full of hypocrisy on the part of the Emporer and the sense of injustice this creates.
Vera is young and naive and thrown into a diplomatic / rescue mission she is nowhere near ready to perform - her punishment for breaking her vow of pacifism... in self-defence. Success is not expected. The Emporer wants to be rid of her for breaking her vow and so sends her on an impossible suicide mission to save another family member who has failed to return from an investigation on a planet at the fringes of the empire.
When we see the ill-judged actions Vera often takes we must remember she is a naive, inexperienced sixteen-year-old in over her head.
This story does not do much wrong. There are some flashback scenes early on that I feel would have been better told real time to draw the relationship between Vera and her mentor before he is killed to give it more impact. These scenes detract from the forward momentum of the story somewhat. Late in the story, there are some events that make her bodyguard Roman look more like the hero of this tale, rather than Vera our heroine. These things do little to spoil this YA sci-fi tale that features strange happenings that would not be out of place in a Doctor Who storyline.
Enjoyable, well written and leaves me curious to see how the trilogy will end.
I found this instantly intriguing and went on to finish this tale that is full of hypocrisy on the part of the Emporer and the sense of injustice this creates.
Vera is young and naive and thrown into a diplomatic / rescue mission she is nowhere near ready to perform - her punishment for breaking her vow of pacifism... in self-defence. Success is not expected. The Emporer wants to be rid of her for breaking her vow and so sends her on an impossible suicide mission to save another family member who has failed to return from an investigation on a planet at the fringes of the empire.
When we see the ill-judged actions Vera often takes we must remember she is a naive, inexperienced sixteen-year-old in over her head.
This story does not do much wrong. There are some flashback scenes early on that I feel would have been better told real time to draw the relationship between Vera and her mentor before he is killed to give it more impact. These scenes detract from the forward momentum of the story somewhat. Late in the story, there are some events that make her bodyguard Roman look more like the hero of this tale, rather than Vera our heroine. These things do little to spoil this YA sci-fi tale that features strange happenings that would not be out of place in a Doctor Who storyline.
Enjoyable, well written and leaves me curious to see how the trilogy will end.
July 16, 2018
Vera went from interesting to disappointing, and all within the span of two chapters. 44% in and I’m calling this a miss.
March 23, 2017
Normally I write my reviews after finishing. This one changed so abruptly from good to not good that my review was written as I was reading:
It started very strongly and I was completely drawn in. Vera was interesting and relatable. Roman’s outlander upbringing allowed him to accept what Vera had done and not judge her and I was incredibly excited to see how they would work together to defeat the odds on their suicide mission. Then about 30% into the story we get to Capricornia and interesting and likable Vera is replaced by a blind, easily manipulated idiot whose brains and common sense seem to have dribbled out of her ears on a wave of hormones.
She doesn’t seem to be taking her mission to find Denise seriously (despite the fact that failure to do so will result in both a war and her own death) just trailing blindly after Ian making the excuse that this was the sort of thing Denise did so it’s all good. She has asked about Denise twice and doesn’t push when people brush her off. Roman is attempting to interject some common sense into Vera with very limited success. Gee I hope this improves soon. Where is Vera from the first part of the story. The one who broke her pacifist vow and killed someone in equal parts for revenge and survival. Then came up with a desparate plan to save her own life. This has gone from a 4-5 star beginning to a 2 star that I am contemplating not finishing.
It’s not getting better. I now actively dislike Vera. She is stupid and shallow and selfish.
Ok I fucking hate Vera. She makes dumb, dangerous decisions, she kisses weird creepy Ian, she is rude to and dismissive of Roman who is making sensible observations about the danger of her decisions, the consequences of partaking in life threatening events and the weirdness of Ian & crew. She ignores ALL the danger signs and triggers and pledges to protect the planet (after rightfully refusing the first time because she is already sworn to the empire) in a weird cult like ceremony because her blood falls on the ground and she doesn’t want to offend Ian. Ian who fucking stabbed her, so her blood would fall on the sacred ground. Then. then when Ian apologises for stabbing her this is Vera’s response “He was looking at me in that melting way with his gorgeous blue eyes and I couldn’t help but smile my forgiveness.” AYFKM? Yes, yes you can help but forgive the psycho that sent you overall a waterfall in a kayak where you nearly drowned (and would have if not for Roman – that awesome dude you keep dismissing), stabbed you in the hand and forced you to pledge allegiance to his planet even tho you are an ambassador for the empire. Vera you are a fucking moron and I hate you. Roman cut your losses – you deserve so much better.
Some more stuff happens, Vera is captured and beaten up, Denise is rescued, Roman is hideously tortured to the point of death and weird stuff goes on with the link between Vera & Roman but I just don’t care. I probably hate Vera and this whole story more because I feel like I was tricked by the first third into thinking it would be awesome. So my expectations were raised high then smashed
It started very strongly and I was completely drawn in. Vera was interesting and relatable. Roman’s outlander upbringing allowed him to accept what Vera had done and not judge her and I was incredibly excited to see how they would work together to defeat the odds on their suicide mission. Then about 30% into the story we get to Capricornia and interesting and likable Vera is replaced by a blind, easily manipulated idiot whose brains and common sense seem to have dribbled out of her ears on a wave of hormones.
She doesn’t seem to be taking her mission to find Denise seriously (despite the fact that failure to do so will result in both a war and her own death) just trailing blindly after Ian making the excuse that this was the sort of thing Denise did so it’s all good. She has asked about Denise twice and doesn’t push when people brush her off. Roman is attempting to interject some common sense into Vera with very limited success. Gee I hope this improves soon. Where is Vera from the first part of the story. The one who broke her pacifist vow and killed someone in equal parts for revenge and survival. Then came up with a desparate plan to save her own life. This has gone from a 4-5 star beginning to a 2 star that I am contemplating not finishing.
It’s not getting better. I now actively dislike Vera. She is stupid and shallow and selfish.
Ok I fucking hate Vera. She makes dumb, dangerous decisions, she kisses weird creepy Ian, she is rude to and dismissive of Roman who is making sensible observations about the danger of her decisions, the consequences of partaking in life threatening events and the weirdness of Ian & crew. She ignores ALL the danger signs and triggers and pledges to protect the planet (after rightfully refusing the first time because she is already sworn to the empire) in a weird cult like ceremony because her blood falls on the ground and she doesn’t want to offend Ian. Ian who fucking stabbed her, so her blood would fall on the sacred ground. Then. then when Ian apologises for stabbing her this is Vera’s response “He was looking at me in that melting way with his gorgeous blue eyes and I couldn’t help but smile my forgiveness.” AYFKM? Yes, yes you can help but forgive the psycho that sent you overall a waterfall in a kayak where you nearly drowned (and would have if not for Roman – that awesome dude you keep dismissing), stabbed you in the hand and forced you to pledge allegiance to his planet even tho you are an ambassador for the empire. Vera you are a fucking moron and I hate you. Roman cut your losses – you deserve so much better.
Some more stuff happens, Vera is captured and beaten up, Denise is rescued, Roman is hideously tortured to the point of death and weird stuff goes on with the link between Vera & Roman but I just don’t care. I probably hate Vera and this whole story more because I feel like I was tricked by the first third into thinking it would be awesome. So my expectations were raised high then smashed
October 3, 2017
This was a wonderful and suspenseful book! It had me hooked from the very first page!
We start off with Vera, who is standing with blood on her hands and a pool of blood around her feet. We immediately then question how she got herself in this situation. What happened, did she kill someone, is she injured? I think this was a great way to start a book.
Once we read why she was in this situation, it only becomes worse, her situation as well as finding more questions than answers for us readers.
Vera, and her guardian Roman, are sent on a impossible mission, to rescue her cousin Denise and find out what happened to her on a foreign planet. But this planet has many secrets of their own, there are people who are young and like to party. The inhabitants are all no older than 55 and no younger than 15, this causes many suspicions for Vera and Roman. In order to find the clues and pieces to find her cousin they must follow their culture customs and traditions, no matter how weird and psychotic they are.
I loved how this fictional world was structured, it's unique and intriguing. Their world is full of craziness, parties and risk-taking, while Vera, an Ambassador to the Empire, is structured and ordered. So for both Vera and Roman this is a strange encounter, especially their guide Ian, who looks at the positive in every negative situation, including death
I liked Vera, she is strong and competent, and although she is afraid, she stands confident over her enemies.
Roman I liked a lot too, he is loyal, fierce and protective over Vera. Even though he knows why he specifically was sent to protect Vera on this suicidal mission , he still stands by her side and watches her. No matter how much she infuriates him, he still feels a sense of connectiveness with her, a sense to protect her, maybe even love her. And these feelings become stronger since they both have been implanted a chip that allows them to talk telepathically. But with Vera's enemies trying their hardest to stop her from exposing their secrets and escaping, they both fight for each and protect each other, no matter the cost.
I so ship Vera and Roman and I hope to see how their relationship will grow. Can't wait to read more!
Received a copy from the author herself, in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
We start off with Vera, who is standing with blood on her hands and a pool of blood around her feet. We immediately then question how she got herself in this situation. What happened, did she kill someone, is she injured? I think this was a great way to start a book.
Once we read why she was in this situation, it only becomes worse, her situation as well as finding more questions than answers for us readers.
Vera, and her guardian Roman, are sent on a impossible mission, to rescue her cousin Denise and find out what happened to her on a foreign planet. But this planet has many secrets of their own, there are people who are young and like to party. The inhabitants are all no older than 55 and no younger than 15, this causes many suspicions for Vera and Roman. In order to find the clues and pieces to find her cousin they must follow their culture customs and traditions, no matter how weird and psychotic they are.
I loved how this fictional world was structured, it's unique and intriguing. Their world is full of craziness, parties and risk-taking, while Vera, an Ambassador to the Empire, is structured and ordered. So for both Vera and Roman this is a strange encounter, especially their guide Ian, who looks at the positive in every negative situation, including death
I liked Vera, she is strong and competent, and although she is afraid, she stands confident over her enemies.
Roman I liked a lot too, he is loyal, fierce and protective over Vera. Even though he knows why he specifically was sent to protect Vera on this suicidal mission , he still stands by her side and watches her. No matter how much she infuriates him, he still feels a sense of connectiveness with her, a sense to protect her, maybe even love her. And these feelings become stronger since they both have been implanted a chip that allows them to talk telepathically. But with Vera's enemies trying their hardest to stop her from exposing their secrets and escaping, they both fight for each and protect each other, no matter the cost.
I so ship Vera and Roman and I hope to see how their relationship will grow. Can't wait to read more!
Received a copy from the author herself, in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
October 5, 2018
The Ex-Pacifist is book 1 in the Matsumoto series.
This book started off really well. It reminded me of the Vampire Academy series, which is one of my favourites! But half way through, I got annoyed with Vera and the way she behaved. Also, I sort of expected it to turn out the way it ended, so wasn't too surprised, more disappointed...
Overall, a good read though.
This book started off really well. It reminded me of the Vampire Academy series, which is one of my favourites! But half way through, I got annoyed with Vera and the way she behaved. Also, I sort of expected it to turn out the way it ended, so wasn't too surprised, more disappointed...
Overall, a good read though.
March 20, 2017
I was really surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. I liked the main character and was quite invested in seeing how there adventure ended. Of course, in true series fashion, at the end of this first book, their adventure has really only begun.
March 29, 2017
Amazing fantasy book that leaves you ready for the next one. Loved being able to review
September 21, 2016
The story was good and I will certainly purchase the sequel. My only complaints were the love triangle (it actually fit the plot, which I did like, but Vera didn't really act how I felt she would have and it was kind of forced, I kept thinking that Ian was controlling her emotions) and Vera should have tried harder to look into the disappearance while she was with Ian and his crew, she didn't seem to understand that this was life or death the whole time.
December 3, 2017
Really enjoyable young adult science-fiction. The Matusmotos are the ruling family of the Blackwatch Empire. All lesser Matusmutos are pledged to serve their emperor as ambassadors from the time they are born. Each one is genetically engineered, tech-enhanced, and well-trained. Matsumotos are trusted and allowed into situations because everyone knows they are pacifists and will not respond with violence even at the threat of death.
Our protagonist, Vera, is a Matsumoto. When the story starts she is at a function on her fledgling mission under the watchful eye of a more experienced ambassador. Her objective is to negotiate a trade deal that will have repercussions in the Empire for the foreseeable future. Unfortunately, things do not go as planned, and Vera ends up killing a man in self-defense. Under a different Empire, her actions might have been lauded instead she is bundled back to her homeworld in disgrace with the certainty of execution hanging over her head. Vera manages to talk Emperor Nigel into allowing her on one final mission as a chance to redeem herself. She must find a missing cousin ambassador or die trying. She has two weeks and if she fails she faces certain death.
It should be noted that Vera is only sixteen years old and has very little worldly experience. The Matsumoto family is very conservative. All marriages must be sanctioned by the Emperor, most marriages are arranged well in advance, and premarital sex is a punishable offense. Why is this important? Because during the mission to save her cousin, Vera is faced with something that very few teenaged girls can handle with aplomb - a pretty face. When she arrives at her destination her escort is a very handsome and personable teenaged boy. Vera feels an instant attraction and her actions in the second half of the book reflect that attraction. Her IQ drops, and she has trouble focusing on her mission. In the end, she overcomes and succeeds, or does she?
I liked Vera's character and that of her guardian bodyguard, Roman. Even when she is being stupid, and Roman is trying to talk some sense into her. I thought the characters and their motivations were realistic. The story itself is pretty fast paced. How could it not be when there is a time limit of a fortnight or the main character dies? As an ambassador and a member of the ruling family, Vera is powerful, yet because of the restrictions placed on her as a member of the ruling family, in many ways, she is powerless. I think that's a situation with which most people can relate. I'm looking forward to finding out how Vera handles things in the next book.
Our protagonist, Vera, is a Matsumoto. When the story starts she is at a function on her fledgling mission under the watchful eye of a more experienced ambassador. Her objective is to negotiate a trade deal that will have repercussions in the Empire for the foreseeable future. Unfortunately, things do not go as planned, and Vera ends up killing a man in self-defense. Under a different Empire, her actions might have been lauded instead she is bundled back to her homeworld in disgrace with the certainty of execution hanging over her head. Vera manages to talk Emperor Nigel into allowing her on one final mission as a chance to redeem herself. She must find a missing cousin ambassador or die trying. She has two weeks and if she fails she faces certain death.
It should be noted that Vera is only sixteen years old and has very little worldly experience. The Matsumoto family is very conservative. All marriages must be sanctioned by the Emperor, most marriages are arranged well in advance, and premarital sex is a punishable offense. Why is this important? Because during the mission to save her cousin, Vera is faced with something that very few teenaged girls can handle with aplomb - a pretty face. When she arrives at her destination her escort is a very handsome and personable teenaged boy. Vera feels an instant attraction and her actions in the second half of the book reflect that attraction. Her IQ drops, and she has trouble focusing on her mission. In the end, she overcomes and succeeds, or does she?
I liked Vera's character and that of her guardian bodyguard, Roman. Even when she is being stupid, and Roman is trying to talk some sense into her. I thought the characters and their motivations were realistic. The story itself is pretty fast paced. How could it not be when there is a time limit of a fortnight or the main character dies? As an ambassador and a member of the ruling family, Vera is powerful, yet because of the restrictions placed on her as a member of the ruling family, in many ways, she is powerless. I think that's a situation with which most people can relate. I'm looking forward to finding out how Vera handles things in the next book.
December 8, 2017
This book was an unexpected surprise. I don't know why I even decide to read this book, as it is not in line with what I usually like, but I am so glad I did. The book is simply fantastic and the writing and storytelling are superb.
The story occurs in somewhat distant future, after the humans have already destroyed the Earth and moved on with all the advanced technology to colonise distant planets. At the heart of the story is Matsumoto dynasty with the Emperor ruling over seven planets. The rule is somewhat based on ancient Japanese model, but modernised, and with cruel and quite unreasonable set of rules. The story depicts some quite violent events at times, which is not surprising considering the types of societies featured.
The main character is Vera Matsumoto, cousin to the Emperor and the Ambasador of the Empire. It is not clear why the planets are mainly populated and ruled by very young people, but a lot has changed since the destruction of the Earth. Vera has been trained for her position practically since birth, and she has been well indoctrinated to follow the rules to the letter. Until one event when she doesn't. Her disobedience starts a whole chain of events and reveals all kinds of foul play. The story is absolutely gripping and I could not put it down. I can't say I liked any of the characters that much, but this is completely irrelevant to the story, as it is the idea and the story that kept me mesmerised, not the characters, which are mostly portrayed as pawns in the bigger game.
Vera is a strange character. She is a combination of very skilled diplomat and strategist, and a completely naive little girl. At times, her naivete borders on stupidity and gets her in impossibly difficult situations. However, what makes it interesting is her learning and growing process. She is thrown in impossible situations and she finds a way to cope or even to get out somehow. She is not strong or overly independent, she is intelligent but overly naive, overall nothing special, but she learns and she grows and she has potential to become special.
I find the series irresistible and I immediately started reading further. This book has an open ending, partly resolved, partly cliffhanger, completely infuriating, and I have no idea what happens next, but I prefer it that way. It is a trilogy after all, not a set of standalone novels. The reading order of the series is as follows: Roman Adrift (Matsumoto Trilogy, #0.5) (even better if read after the book#1), The Ex-Pacifist (Matsumoto Trilogy, #1), The Splitting (Matsumoto Trilogy, #2), and The Matsumoto (Matsumoto Trilogy, #3). The three novels also come as a book set The Matsumoto Trilogy: Omnibus Edition (Matsumoto Trilogy #1-3). Amazing futuristic series and I highly recommend it.
The story occurs in somewhat distant future, after the humans have already destroyed the Earth and moved on with all the advanced technology to colonise distant planets. At the heart of the story is Matsumoto dynasty with the Emperor ruling over seven planets. The rule is somewhat based on ancient Japanese model, but modernised, and with cruel and quite unreasonable set of rules. The story depicts some quite violent events at times, which is not surprising considering the types of societies featured.
The main character is Vera Matsumoto, cousin to the Emperor and the Ambasador of the Empire. It is not clear why the planets are mainly populated and ruled by very young people, but a lot has changed since the destruction of the Earth. Vera has been trained for her position practically since birth, and she has been well indoctrinated to follow the rules to the letter. Until one event when she doesn't. Her disobedience starts a whole chain of events and reveals all kinds of foul play. The story is absolutely gripping and I could not put it down. I can't say I liked any of the characters that much, but this is completely irrelevant to the story, as it is the idea and the story that kept me mesmerised, not the characters, which are mostly portrayed as pawns in the bigger game.
Vera is a strange character. She is a combination of very skilled diplomat and strategist, and a completely naive little girl. At times, her naivete borders on stupidity and gets her in impossibly difficult situations. However, what makes it interesting is her learning and growing process. She is thrown in impossible situations and she finds a way to cope or even to get out somehow. She is not strong or overly independent, she is intelligent but overly naive, overall nothing special, but she learns and she grows and she has potential to become special.
I find the series irresistible and I immediately started reading further. This book has an open ending, partly resolved, partly cliffhanger, completely infuriating, and I have no idea what happens next, but I prefer it that way. It is a trilogy after all, not a set of standalone novels. The reading order of the series is as follows: Roman Adrift (Matsumoto Trilogy, #0.5) (even better if read after the book#1), The Ex-Pacifist (Matsumoto Trilogy, #1), The Splitting (Matsumoto Trilogy, #2), and The Matsumoto (Matsumoto Trilogy, #3). The three novels also come as a book set The Matsumoto Trilogy: Omnibus Edition (Matsumoto Trilogy #1-3). Amazing futuristic series and I highly recommend it.
July 24, 2025
I received this book for free through the author's website, I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
I'm going to come right out and say it, but this is one of the author's first works and is not a good representation of what her books are today. And saying such, I probably would only recommend this book to die-hard fans or to writers who are studying writing (but only if you intend to read one of the author's more recent works as well, otherwise your research will be off-balance.)
And even with knowing how well this author can write, this is not a bad book, not at all. It's a little hard to get into it in the beginning (some clunky writing, miss-use of flashbacks, and not enough descriptions) and even though some of those things stick throughout the book, it does start to get good and interesting when Roman is introduced. Overall, I did enjoy reading this story.
Content:
1. Violence. (Several people are killed or almost killed in the first chapter. Getting attacked. Someone is killed instantly by hitting his head at a high speed. Someone gets stabbed with a knife. Broken bones. Killing people with bare-hands or with weapons. Blood and gore. Etc.)
2. A character is kidnapped.
3. Sex. (The main character was conceived out of wedlock, non-descript. A teenage girl was forced to change her clothes and shower in front of an older man, nothing happens. Some older men look predatory and maybe longingly at a teenage girl. A few kisses and suggestive comments between teenagers, nothing happens. A teenage girl gets her eggs harvested forcefully without consent, non-descript.)
4. Talk about war.
5. The main characters have both lost their parents in horrible, violent ways. (One is executed for conceiving the main character. One dies in a terrorist attack and refusing to do anything about it. Two die from the vacuum of space. A parental figure gets murdered in front of the main character).
6. Torture. (A character is tortured with electric shocks. More torture with a hot iron burning someone's leg through the skin to the bone. Talk about psychological torture.)
7. Genetic experimenting. (Making people genetically perfect. Deformed babies. Etc.)
8. Experimenting on people without their consent.
9. Implanting a computer in someone's head without their consent.
I'm going to come right out and say it, but this is one of the author's first works and is not a good representation of what her books are today. And saying such, I probably would only recommend this book to die-hard fans or to writers who are studying writing (but only if you intend to read one of the author's more recent works as well, otherwise your research will be off-balance.)
And even with knowing how well this author can write, this is not a bad book, not at all. It's a little hard to get into it in the beginning (some clunky writing, miss-use of flashbacks, and not enough descriptions) and even though some of those things stick throughout the book, it does start to get good and interesting when Roman is introduced. Overall, I did enjoy reading this story.
Content:
1. Violence. (Several people are killed or almost killed in the first chapter. Getting attacked. Someone is killed instantly by hitting his head at a high speed. Someone gets stabbed with a knife. Broken bones. Killing people with bare-hands or with weapons. Blood and gore. Etc.)
2. A character is kidnapped.
3. Sex. (The main character was conceived out of wedlock, non-descript. A teenage girl was forced to change her clothes and shower in front of an older man, nothing happens. Some older men look predatory and maybe longingly at a teenage girl. A few kisses and suggestive comments between teenagers, nothing happens. A teenage girl gets her eggs harvested forcefully without consent, non-descript.)
4. Talk about war.
5. The main characters have both lost their parents in horrible, violent ways. (One is executed for conceiving the main character. One dies in a terrorist attack and refusing to do anything about it. Two die from the vacuum of space. A parental figure gets murdered in front of the main character).
6. Torture. (A character is tortured with electric shocks. More torture with a hot iron burning someone's leg through the skin to the bone. Talk about psychological torture.)
7. Genetic experimenting. (Making people genetically perfect. Deformed babies. Etc.)
8. Experimenting on people without their consent.
9. Implanting a computer in someone's head without their consent.
November 19, 2017
I received a free digital copy of this book, I just don't remember from where.
Vera Matsumoto is a disgraced ambassador for the Matsumoto's Blackwatch Empire. She's disgraced because she broke her pacifist vow, so she is sent on a suicide mission to find her missing cousin, who is also an ambassador, with a deadline or she really will die, which was her first punishment for breaking her pacifist vow. I like this character. She was sympathetic and a pain in the ass at the same time. She likes rules and conventions. She likes following these rules and conventions, until someone she loves is hurt. And she has to deal with everyone else, who has their own agendas too.
That is something the author did really well. Each character we meet has their own agenda. They aren't passively on screen to be set dressing for the character. And Vera wasn't completely helpless, even though she chose not to fight. I was even surprised and thrilled by the ending of the book during the last battle scene.
I am definitely glad I have the next one to start reading immediately. The one bad thing, is my copies are digital instead of in print. I know what I am saving my money for, since this is a story I will reread many times.
Vera Matsumoto is a disgraced ambassador for the Matsumoto's Blackwatch Empire. She's disgraced because she broke her pacifist vow, so she is sent on a suicide mission to find her missing cousin, who is also an ambassador, with a deadline or she really will die, which was her first punishment for breaking her pacifist vow. I like this character. She was sympathetic and a pain in the ass at the same time. She likes rules and conventions. She likes following these rules and conventions, until someone she loves is hurt. And she has to deal with everyone else, who has their own agendas too.
That is something the author did really well. Each character we meet has their own agenda. They aren't passively on screen to be set dressing for the character. And Vera wasn't completely helpless, even though she chose not to fight. I was even surprised and thrilled by the ending of the book during the last battle scene.
I am definitely glad I have the next one to start reading immediately. The one bad thing, is my copies are digital instead of in print. I know what I am saving my money for, since this is a story I will reread many times.
March 2, 2018
The Ex-Pacifist is a fast-paced, original YA sci-fi.
This is an intriguing and colourful universe, with some unique futuristic tech and deadly intergalactic power struggles. Vera, the main character, makes a likeable and engaging narrator – as a Matsumoto ambassador she is at once powerful and powerless, which throws up some interesting questions and dynamics.
I felt the plot lost a bit of focus around the middle – there were times when Vera didn't seem to concentrate on her life-or-death mission half as much as you would expect – and I would've loved to have explored the relationship between Vera and Denise a little more. But the rich world building, the plot twists and thrilling action sequences draw you in, and there are hidden depths to the story that really get you thinking.
I'm looking forward to following Vera's story through the rest of the trilogy.
This is an intriguing and colourful universe, with some unique futuristic tech and deadly intergalactic power struggles. Vera, the main character, makes a likeable and engaging narrator – as a Matsumoto ambassador she is at once powerful and powerless, which throws up some interesting questions and dynamics.
I felt the plot lost a bit of focus around the middle – there were times when Vera didn't seem to concentrate on her life-or-death mission half as much as you would expect – and I would've loved to have explored the relationship between Vera and Denise a little more. But the rich world building, the plot twists and thrilling action sequences draw you in, and there are hidden depths to the story that really get you thinking.
I'm looking forward to following Vera's story through the rest of the trilogy.
August 22, 2019
Being a pacifist isn't easy, especially when you're a teenage ambassador for a very unforgiving emperor.
Vera didn't want to break the rules, but when an important man took away the closest thing she had to family, she breaks the one, unforgivable rule, and defends herself by killing him. Now she's trying to work off her sentence by accepting an impossible mission, one that's meant to kill her. Can she and her new guardian survive, or is her number truly up?
Ahhhhh! This was fantastic. The romance, the danger, the impossible odds. I read book one in a flash, and was grateful that I had books 2 and 3 already loaded. The action doesn't stop, and it's sooo good, and soooo addictive. Seriously, if you pick up the first book, do yourself a favor and get the other two now.
Goodreads side note: So sad they haven't updated the cover, because the new ones are gorgeous!
Vera didn't want to break the rules, but when an important man took away the closest thing she had to family, she breaks the one, unforgivable rule, and defends herself by killing him. Now she's trying to work off her sentence by accepting an impossible mission, one that's meant to kill her. Can she and her new guardian survive, or is her number truly up?
Ahhhhh! This was fantastic. The romance, the danger, the impossible odds. I read book one in a flash, and was grateful that I had books 2 and 3 already loaded. The action doesn't stop, and it's sooo good, and soooo addictive. Seriously, if you pick up the first book, do yourself a favor and get the other two now.
Goodreads side note: So sad they haven't updated the cover, because the new ones are gorgeous!
July 6, 2018
This is a very nicely done YA dystopian genre novel, but at the same time it is science fiction adventure on a very grand scale.
Vera Matsumoto is a wonderful heroine, smart and steadfast. Her growing relationship with her bodyguard Romsn, and her interaction with the other well-drawn characters in this book, and in the well-done universe that Sarah K. Wilson has created, are a pleasure to read.
My only complaint is the cliffhanger at the end which is used as a teaser to get readers to want the next book. The tease was totally unnecessary as anyone who finishes this book will be driven to seek the next one. nNotwithstanding that cliffhanger this is so good that it still more than justifies being highly recommended.
Vera Matsumoto is a wonderful heroine, smart and steadfast. Her growing relationship with her bodyguard Romsn, and her interaction with the other well-drawn characters in this book, and in the well-done universe that Sarah K. Wilson has created, are a pleasure to read.
My only complaint is the cliffhanger at the end which is used as a teaser to get readers to want the next book. The tease was totally unnecessary as anyone who finishes this book will be driven to seek the next one. nNotwithstanding that cliffhanger this is so good that it still more than justifies being highly recommended.
August 23, 2019
I had my difficulties to get into the book. It started very good and interesting then chapter 4 or 5 made me nearly hate Vera, the main character. She is doing nearly a 180 degree turn there. Says and does things that make her unlikable. And this controversial behavior carried on throughout. Sometimes she is sweet and caring just to be selfish and stupid in the next scene. Her behavior towards Roman, her guardian, makes me wonder why he cares so much about her. Vera's character judgment is really bad or maybe she is just like a typical teenager trying to figure out a way in life. But it's difficult to see her as the special person the end of the book is heading to.
Nevertheless, the basic idea is good and I'm full of hopes that the next book is more consistent.
Nevertheless, the basic idea is good and I'm full of hopes that the next book is more consistent.
July 22, 2020
Imagine being conditioned all your life to doing things one way, never questioning why you do it that way. You are a Matsumoto, that is your life become an ambassador and be the voice of the Emperor. Vera is only sixteen when she is sent on her first mission. It goes horribly wrong and she breaks one of the cardinal rules of a Matsumoto. It is punishable by death. She manages to persuade the Emperor to sent her on a mission. She discovers it’s just another way to get rid of her without her blood staining her hands. What ensues is a great adventure with non-stop action and great writing. Ms Wilson has done it again writing a thrilling start to what will be an awesome trilogy. Highly recommended.
May 29, 2017
A first for me by this author, this storyline line aced all my good read buttons! The characters were fully formed and brought to life easily. I knew Vera and a Roman would hold my attention all the way. Totally loved this "ex-pacifist" dilemma that Vera is in. I found it hard to put this down ( another winning trait!). As with all good reads, a partial conclusion is reached but the need to read the next in series is a must! Nigel showed his true colors and sure hope something is done about him in future books. Love this and a definite recommend! This voluntary review is based against a copy given to me.
June 23, 2017
I god this book on a giveaway from another author.
I did enjoy really much this book, the heroin is not just one beautiful girl that everybody loves at first sight, is a strong, intelligent, sincere, righteous and capable woman.. As is expected.. there is a man involved but it is someone not just in love with her looks, he could relate with Vera´s circumstance, her loneliness .. Their relationship, every step that they took on the story was really great to read through the pages of this book.
Actually I am writing this review as a I already finished all the trilogy :D very recommended.
I did enjoy really much this book, the heroin is not just one beautiful girl that everybody loves at first sight, is a strong, intelligent, sincere, righteous and capable woman.. As is expected.. there is a man involved but it is someone not just in love with her looks, he could relate with Vera´s circumstance, her loneliness .. Their relationship, every step that they took on the story was really great to read through the pages of this book.
Actually I am writing this review as a I already finished all the trilogy :D very recommended.
May 22, 2017
The action hits you from the start and never really lets up. I've been trying to find good YA sci-fi and this one fit perfectly. Read in one day because I couldn't wait to see what would happen next. Vera and Roman are at odds at first but slowly become a lot more. I was kept guessing on what would happen next. Can't wait for the next one in this series. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
July 14, 2018
Stand up for your rights or get swept away
If you were sworn to never take a life but did, what would the outcome be? Vera does exactly that and as a punishment she is sent to track down a missing cousin with just one bodyguard. Can she complete her task and why are there strange goings on on the planet. The hero and heroine are well developed and rounded characters and you can see Vera's growth as the book progresses. A good read for all SF lovers.
If you were sworn to never take a life but did, what would the outcome be? Vera does exactly that and as a punishment she is sent to track down a missing cousin with just one bodyguard. Can she complete her task and why are there strange goings on on the planet. The hero and heroine are well developed and rounded characters and you can see Vera's growth as the book progresses. A good read for all SF lovers.
February 20, 2017
This was a fast paced read. I liked that the plot felt original and the story was interesting. The writing is solid and engaging. I liked the main character. She is strong, smart, and easy to connect with. The romance is done nicely and doesn't over shadow the story. It ended leaving me wanting to read more. I can't wait to read book #2.
October 31, 2017
I couldn’t put this book down. The characters are so well defined I could recognize them on the street or on the telephone! The plot is action packed and tricksy. The only negative is the cliffhanger ending. I HATE them and an extraordinary author like Ms. Wilson does not need them. Give me a solid ending with more books in the same universe.
July 18, 2018
The Ex-Pacifist
Vera is a young character with big responsibility and she knows it. She has a sheltered view of things yet her impulsive actions prove the brainwashing wasn't complete. Roman is your your typical tough guy with a soft heart hidden inside. Yet you can't not like him. Very interesting to see the beliefs and worlds in this first book.
Vera is a young character with big responsibility and she knows it. She has a sheltered view of things yet her impulsive actions prove the brainwashing wasn't complete. Roman is your your typical tough guy with a soft heart hidden inside. Yet you can't not like him. Very interesting to see the beliefs and worlds in this first book.
November 9, 2018
This was sooooooo good! At the beginning I had trouble getting into the book but once I did I couldn't stop reading! I really enjoyed the characters ad I almost cried at the end, as I had come totally attached to the them. The story was interesting and the plot kept the whole book at a nice suspenseful pace. I'm not sure how the story will progress, but I am excited to find out!
October 31, 2017
Writing was only okay (but I'm picky about writing), and the proofreader missed a few spots, but the characters were intriguing enough that I plan to read the sequels. Even though the cliffhanger is annoying...
May 19, 2017
One of, if not the best crafted SF novels I have read in a long time. The protagonist is presented in a way that lets us see beyond her own view of herself. The pace and rhythm never lags.
July 3, 2017
I was really surprised at how much I enjoyed this book it's well written with a fast pace and good characters. Straight onto the next as I'm now hooked and need to know what haves to Vera and Roman
April 19, 2018
A great space series
About a young woman and her guardian. Well written and enjoyable. Action, adventure, love, desperation... Intriguing and harrowing. What more can you ask for.
About a young woman and her guardian. Well written and enjoyable. Action, adventure, love, desperation... Intriguing and harrowing. What more can you ask for.
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March 9, 2022While I am not a space opera fan, this had excellent world-building and some good action sequences, but the main character was not that likeable.
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