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Haunting Emma #2
Betrayal
Emma Vaile is the most powerful ghostkeeper in centuries. Which is great when she's battling the wraith-master Neos, but terrible when she's flirting with fellow ghostkeeper (and soul mate) Bennett. When ghostkeepers fall in love, the weaker one loses all power, and that's not something Bennett can handle. Heartbroken and alone, Emma tries to lose herself in school with fellow ghostkeeper, Natalie. When a new team of ghostkeepers arrive-one a snarky teen
boy, the other a British scholar-Emma finds solace in training for the battle against Neos. But as the team grows stronger, they are threatened by an unknown force. One they thought was good.
As chilling and page-turning as Deception, this sequel will grab readers and hold them to the last page. No one is safe from suspicion as Emma closes in on the traitor.
boy, the other a British scholar-Emma finds solace in training for the battle against Neos. But as the team grows stronger, they are threatened by an unknown force. One they thought was good.
As chilling and page-turning as Deception, this sequel will grab readers and hold them to the last page. No one is safe from suspicion as Emma closes in on the traitor.
288 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2011
48 people are currently reading
2347 people want to read
About the author
Lee Nichols
24 books376 followersLee Nichols is the author of five novels for adults, including the bestselling TALES OF A DRAMA QUEEN. She'll be making her YA debut in 2010 with DECEPTION: A Haunting Emma Novel. Follow her on Twitter at LeeXNichols or Friend her on Facebook at Lee Nichols. http://www.leenicholsbooks.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
October 28, 2010
I was lucky to get my hands on an advanced review copy. LOVED it. I love the way Lee Nichols writes--one minute I'm laughing and the next I'm scared, on the edge of my seat.
"Here's the thing about ghostkeepers. When we die, we die. There's no coming back like other people. But people like Coby could be summoned. Or at least their ghosts could."
And then she summons him, even though she's blamed for his death in the first place . . .
Could not put this book down!
"Here's the thing about ghostkeepers. When we die, we die. There's no coming back like other people. But people like Coby could be summoned. Or at least their ghosts could."
And then she summons him, even though she's blamed for his death in the first place . . .
Could not put this book down!
June 28, 2011
Reviewed for MM's by Sophie:
I picked up Betrayal right as I finished Deception (see link for review) and let me tell you, Mundie Moms, I was filled with anxiety (in a good way). We know by now all about Emma’s strength and her legacy. But, Deception ended with such a reveal that I was left thinking, “Oh boy, how will this work out?” Those are the best kind of endings, aren’t they? A reveal not a cliff-hanger. I think so.
So, on to Betrayal and my non-spoilery thoughts. We all know, as readers, that second books are tricky. Often times there are plot developments that we question or don’t like, but Lee managed to avoid every one of those potential pitfalls. Instead, she presents what is a logical extension of the decisions which were made in the first book. And I can’t even being to praise her writing – the plot, the characters and her dark, ghost-filled world all are brilliantly presented. The stakes are higher and everything gets more and more twisted. Don’t you love when that happens in a book? I know, I do.
This time around, the secondary characters are a pivotal part of the story. And the family of friends that Emma has built around her, in her parents’ and brother’s absence, is presented in such a realistic way. Their relationships are tested so very believably, I felt like I was experiencing my own friends’ emotional ups and downs. Even the villain, Neos, continues to be a credible threat. We learn more about him and how very un-stoppable he’s become. Nothing, but nothing, brings out my fangirly side like a good villain. And by good, I mean bad, of course.
Well, nothing except an impossible romance, that is. You know the kind – forbidden, yet destined. Bennett and Emma have just that. I can’t even begin to describe my love for this pairing because I will spoil all plot developments completely. It’s enough, I think, to remark that Bennett easily makes my Top 5 Favorite Fictional Boys list. And yes, MMs, he can work a sword rather well. So here’s to another Hot Boy with Sword who is just dreamy.
I encourage you to not wait and pick up this series as soon as possible. The third installment, Surrender, comes out in December.
I picked up Betrayal right as I finished Deception (see link for review) and let me tell you, Mundie Moms, I was filled with anxiety (in a good way). We know by now all about Emma’s strength and her legacy. But, Deception ended with such a reveal that I was left thinking, “Oh boy, how will this work out?” Those are the best kind of endings, aren’t they? A reveal not a cliff-hanger. I think so.
So, on to Betrayal and my non-spoilery thoughts. We all know, as readers, that second books are tricky. Often times there are plot developments that we question or don’t like, but Lee managed to avoid every one of those potential pitfalls. Instead, she presents what is a logical extension of the decisions which were made in the first book. And I can’t even being to praise her writing – the plot, the characters and her dark, ghost-filled world all are brilliantly presented. The stakes are higher and everything gets more and more twisted. Don’t you love when that happens in a book? I know, I do.
This time around, the secondary characters are a pivotal part of the story. And the family of friends that Emma has built around her, in her parents’ and brother’s absence, is presented in such a realistic way. Their relationships are tested so very believably, I felt like I was experiencing my own friends’ emotional ups and downs. Even the villain, Neos, continues to be a credible threat. We learn more about him and how very un-stoppable he’s become. Nothing, but nothing, brings out my fangirly side like a good villain. And by good, I mean bad, of course.
Well, nothing except an impossible romance, that is. You know the kind – forbidden, yet destined. Bennett and Emma have just that. I can’t even begin to describe my love for this pairing because I will spoil all plot developments completely. It’s enough, I think, to remark that Bennett easily makes my Top 5 Favorite Fictional Boys list. And yes, MMs, he can work a sword rather well. So here’s to another Hot Boy with Sword who is just dreamy.
I encourage you to not wait and pick up this series as soon as possible. The third installment, Surrender, comes out in December.
February 28, 2011
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy
If there's something strange in your neighborhood, who you gonna call? – Emma Vaile! She may be only seventeen, but she’s the most powerful ghostkeeper in generations. She can summon, communicate, and dispell ghosts back to the Beyond. She’s like the Buffy version of a ghostbuster, minus all the punning, though she does have a brooding boyfriend and in BETRAYAL, even gets a Giles-like teacher.
Buffy comparisons aside (always a good thing), BETRAYAL does suffer a bit of the sophomore slump as so much of what was intriguing about DECEPTION involved the mystery of finding out about Emma’s ability and introducing her to the world of the ghostkeepers. In BETRAYAL, a lot of that mystery has already been solved. We know what ghostkeepers are, we know what powers Emma has, we know about the Knell and their involvement in Emma’s life. In place of those mysteries, Emma struggles with her relationship with Bennett (if they touch too much, the stronger will absorb the others powers), a brutal hostility from her classmates who now call her QBK—Quarterback killer after her involvement with Coby’s death, and the ongoing hunt to dispel Neos and prevent him from unleashing anymore wraiths.
Emma and her friends are every bit as sharp and fun as in the previous book, specifically Harry and a new character named Lukas. There were moments of levity that felt out of place given grim circumstances or too closely following a tragedy. I understand that the author was trying to keep the story from being too melancholy, but in those instances, their behavior was a little shallow and not at all in keeping with my impression of the characters overall.
The Paranormal YA genre isn’t overflowing with ghost stories, but the Haunting Emma series stands out as one of the best. A great debut, a solid sequel, and hopefully an equally entertaining conclusion when the third book in the series, SURRENDER, comes out in December of 2011.
Sexual Content:
Kissing
If there's something strange in your neighborhood, who you gonna call? – Emma Vaile! She may be only seventeen, but she’s the most powerful ghostkeeper in generations. She can summon, communicate, and dispell ghosts back to the Beyond. She’s like the Buffy version of a ghostbuster, minus all the punning, though she does have a brooding boyfriend and in BETRAYAL, even gets a Giles-like teacher.
Buffy comparisons aside (always a good thing), BETRAYAL does suffer a bit of the sophomore slump as so much of what was intriguing about DECEPTION involved the mystery of finding out about Emma’s ability and introducing her to the world of the ghostkeepers. In BETRAYAL, a lot of that mystery has already been solved. We know what ghostkeepers are, we know what powers Emma has, we know about the Knell and their involvement in Emma’s life. In place of those mysteries, Emma struggles with her relationship with Bennett (if they touch too much, the stronger will absorb the others powers), a brutal hostility from her classmates who now call her QBK—Quarterback killer after her involvement with Coby’s death, and the ongoing hunt to dispel Neos and prevent him from unleashing anymore wraiths.
Emma and her friends are every bit as sharp and fun as in the previous book, specifically Harry and a new character named Lukas. There were moments of levity that felt out of place given grim circumstances or too closely following a tragedy. I understand that the author was trying to keep the story from being too melancholy, but in those instances, their behavior was a little shallow and not at all in keeping with my impression of the characters overall.
The Paranormal YA genre isn’t overflowing with ghost stories, but the Haunting Emma series stands out as one of the best. A great debut, a solid sequel, and hopefully an equally entertaining conclusion when the third book in the series, SURRENDER, comes out in December of 2011.
Sexual Content:
Kissing
April 17, 2011
I fell in love with ghostkeepers Emma and Bennett in Deception, the first book in this series. They wanted to be together, but Bennett would lose his power to the more powerful Emma. I enjoyed how they innocently struggled with their feelings.
This time around, Bennett goes missing for a good part of the book. While he is gone, Emma is sad, but she hooks up with some new ghostkeepers and her loyal friend Natalie. When Bennett finally returns, Emma realizes that he has changed and it’s not for the better. I am surprised and disappointed with the way Bennett’s story is playing out.
I did, however, like the other characters. The new ghostkeeprs include a hot British guy and another guy who is a trickster. Cody, who died in the first book, has returned in ghost form. Cool. There are ghasts, which are ghosts that have lost their way and start to turn on people. And finally, there is the Siren, who tries to weaken Emma’s power.
The ending is a shock that I did not see coming. While I like a surprise ending, it wasn’t enough to make up for the depressing tone and the relationship between Emma and Bennett.
RATING
3 So-So
COVER COMMENTS
This cover is a nice compliment to the Deception cover. Emma is front and center and I see Bennett too. I like the mysterious misty air and what look like grave markers in the background.
This time around, Bennett goes missing for a good part of the book. While he is gone, Emma is sad, but she hooks up with some new ghostkeepers and her loyal friend Natalie. When Bennett finally returns, Emma realizes that he has changed and it’s not for the better. I am surprised and disappointed with the way Bennett’s story is playing out.
I did, however, like the other characters. The new ghostkeeprs include a hot British guy and another guy who is a trickster. Cody, who died in the first book, has returned in ghost form. Cool. There are ghasts, which are ghosts that have lost their way and start to turn on people. And finally, there is the Siren, who tries to weaken Emma’s power.
The ending is a shock that I did not see coming. While I like a surprise ending, it wasn’t enough to make up for the depressing tone and the relationship between Emma and Bennett.
RATING
3 So-So
COVER COMMENTS
This cover is a nice compliment to the Deception cover. Emma is front and center and I see Bennett too. I like the mysterious misty air and what look like grave markers in the background.
March 30, 2015
Jeg kunne virkelig godt lide den første bog, denne levede dog ikke helt op til mine forventninger. Den var dog ikke dårlig. Det føles lidt som om pusten er gået lidt af historien.
Jeg kan godt lide skrivestilen, dog ikke den bedste jeg har oplevet, men den underholdte mig og var let. Handlingen var også okay, jeg synes dog der manglede et eller andet. Jeg kan ikke præcis sige hvad.
Emma kunne jeg godt lide, men hendes og Bennett’s forhold gik mig en smule på nerverne. Bennett bryder jeg mig ikke så meget om. Hans attitude og opførsel. Nej tak. Lukas og Natalie kan jeg tilgengæld godt lide. Mine favorit personer er dog husspøgelserne Celeste og Anatole. Jeg elskede hver en del med dem, og jublede når de kom. De er simpelthen så herlige. Hele konflikten mellem Emma og Sara og Harry og resten af skolen er jeg ikke fan af. Den er lidt for opstillet og kunstig.
Alt i alt var det en okay bog, men den manglede lidt og jeg var desværre ikke så vild med den som den første. Jeg skal dog klart læse den sidste, for jeg vil gerne vide hvordan det hele ender.
Jeg kan godt lide skrivestilen, dog ikke den bedste jeg har oplevet, men den underholdte mig og var let. Handlingen var også okay, jeg synes dog der manglede et eller andet. Jeg kan ikke præcis sige hvad.
Emma kunne jeg godt lide, men hendes og Bennett’s forhold gik mig en smule på nerverne. Bennett bryder jeg mig ikke så meget om. Hans attitude og opførsel. Nej tak. Lukas og Natalie kan jeg tilgengæld godt lide. Mine favorit personer er dog husspøgelserne Celeste og Anatole. Jeg elskede hver en del med dem, og jublede når de kom. De er simpelthen så herlige. Hele konflikten mellem Emma og Sara og Harry og resten af skolen er jeg ikke fan af. Den er lidt for opstillet og kunstig.
Alt i alt var det en okay bog, men den manglede lidt og jeg var desværre ikke så vild med den som den første. Jeg skal dog klart læse den sidste, for jeg vil gerne vide hvordan det hele ender.
March 25, 2019
Emma Vaile is a high school student and something called a Ghost keeper and she is the most powerful one in centuries. She has to defeat Neos who is the master of wraiths. Will she and her allies win or will Neos? Only time will tell.
September 4, 2011
I loved, loved, loved the first book in this series, Deception, and as soon as this book came through my door I started reading until I was at the very end.
Due to Emma now knowing what she is and what she can do, there was a lot more action in this book compared to Deception. The fight is on to finally get rid of Neos and Emma and her new gang of ghostkeepers are on the case of figuring everything out. The other ghostkeepers are much more experienced than Emma though so when things begin to go wrong, they don’t quite understand that she isn’t in total control of her powers and that she is learning something new every day. I really liked that we got to find out quite a lot more about Emma in this book due to her constant struggles with what/ who she is and what she is supposed to do about all of the bad things going on around her. Also, I felt really sorry for her quite a few times because I don’t think she was being treat very well from everyone around her most of the time.
The thing that was missing in this book for me was romance. Bennett realises that he and Emma can’t be together until Neos is finally gone for good and he kind of runs away like a scared little kid. I did understand where he was coming from and why he did what he did but he left Emma all on her own to deal with a massive mess. Not very knight in shinning armour of him at all! Due to his absence throughout a massive chunk of the book, the tension and romance scenes between him and Emma were missing and I was really sad about this. Their growing relationship and the questions they both had was one of the things I loved the most about the first book. The few scenes that they do get together though made up for Bennett not being around a little bit but there just wasn’t nearly enough of them together for my liking.
As much as I missed Bennett’s presence in this book, I think it was a good thing he ran away. Not having him around meant that we get new and interesting characters in the form of Emma’s new ghostkeeper team. Simon is the leader of the team and while he seems to be extremely strict and boring for now, I think there is much more to be explained about his character. Natalie we met in the previous book and I was so glad to see her get a much larger and more permanent part in the series. She’s a great friend for Emma and their personalities are quite different so the dialogue between the two is always quite interesting. Lukas is the more entertaining out of the ghostkeeper team though. He is really funny with his one liners, girl crazy talk and generally just wants to have a bit of fun amongst all of the craziness which is what I liked most about him.
There were so many plot twists in Betrayal I couldn’t quite believe it. Not that it was a bad thing mind you. Each different twist is paced just right so that when you just get over one thing, another comes and smacks you in the face completely out of the blue. I loved the way that this book was written as the pacing was so perfect. I loved that it was exciting nearly all of the way through but there were little gaps where you could catch your breath for a couple of minutes. More than that though, I didn’t see most of the twists coming at all. I had ideas about what might happen in this book but I wasn’t even close to being right so the fact that Nichols could keep me guessing throughout was a great thing.
Betrayal is a shorter book than Deception so it’s a much quicker read but I didn’t mind that. There was more than enough action and surprises to keep me entertained throughout and now I’m dying for the third book, Surrender, which is out in December. Love this series so much!
Due to Emma now knowing what she is and what she can do, there was a lot more action in this book compared to Deception. The fight is on to finally get rid of Neos and Emma and her new gang of ghostkeepers are on the case of figuring everything out. The other ghostkeepers are much more experienced than Emma though so when things begin to go wrong, they don’t quite understand that she isn’t in total control of her powers and that she is learning something new every day. I really liked that we got to find out quite a lot more about Emma in this book due to her constant struggles with what/ who she is and what she is supposed to do about all of the bad things going on around her. Also, I felt really sorry for her quite a few times because I don’t think she was being treat very well from everyone around her most of the time.
The thing that was missing in this book for me was romance. Bennett realises that he and Emma can’t be together until Neos is finally gone for good and he kind of runs away like a scared little kid. I did understand where he was coming from and why he did what he did but he left Emma all on her own to deal with a massive mess. Not very knight in shinning armour of him at all! Due to his absence throughout a massive chunk of the book, the tension and romance scenes between him and Emma were missing and I was really sad about this. Their growing relationship and the questions they both had was one of the things I loved the most about the first book. The few scenes that they do get together though made up for Bennett not being around a little bit but there just wasn’t nearly enough of them together for my liking.
As much as I missed Bennett’s presence in this book, I think it was a good thing he ran away. Not having him around meant that we get new and interesting characters in the form of Emma’s new ghostkeeper team. Simon is the leader of the team and while he seems to be extremely strict and boring for now, I think there is much more to be explained about his character. Natalie we met in the previous book and I was so glad to see her get a much larger and more permanent part in the series. She’s a great friend for Emma and their personalities are quite different so the dialogue between the two is always quite interesting. Lukas is the more entertaining out of the ghostkeeper team though. He is really funny with his one liners, girl crazy talk and generally just wants to have a bit of fun amongst all of the craziness which is what I liked most about him.
There were so many plot twists in Betrayal I couldn’t quite believe it. Not that it was a bad thing mind you. Each different twist is paced just right so that when you just get over one thing, another comes and smacks you in the face completely out of the blue. I loved the way that this book was written as the pacing was so perfect. I loved that it was exciting nearly all of the way through but there were little gaps where you could catch your breath for a couple of minutes. More than that though, I didn’t see most of the twists coming at all. I had ideas about what might happen in this book but I wasn’t even close to being right so the fact that Nichols could keep me guessing throughout was a great thing.
Betrayal is a shorter book than Deception so it’s a much quicker read but I didn’t mind that. There was more than enough action and surprises to keep me entertained throughout and now I’m dying for the third book, Surrender, which is out in December. Love this series so much!
February 19, 2011
Ever since reading the promising start to this trilogy, I've been dying to know what will happen to next to Emma, Bennett, and all the other ghostkeepers and their friends, family, and enemies I came to love and even hate in some cases. Thankfully enough Betrayal was a fabulous continuation to this rock solid series. I'll even go so far to say this was even better than the first one- something I thought would be nearly impossible!
Betrayal starts shortly after Deception ended with Emma picking up the pieces after her beloved friend Coby died under some usual circumstances involving her and her ghostkeeping world. The majority of her friends and schoolmates think she's the one to blame, and that's okay with her, because she does feel at fault and at least she still has Bennett and Natalie to call friends and in Bennett's case something more than just a friend. Plus, she has bigger fish to fry, namely the evil wraith-master Neos and his army who want nothing more than to see her dead. But after a horrifying event everything is left askew in Emma's world. Bennett has pulled away, going so far as to move out of the house, she has a new ghostkeeping team including one hot heated British boy and a snarky teen, and Neos is growing stronger each and every day. Will Emma be able to defeat Neos when she sees him again? And when Emma's parents make their grand return will everything begin to make sense? Better yet will her and Bennett ever reunite? Only time will tell in this deeply thrilling and romantic read that will have nearly any Haunting Emma fan asking for more, more, and more.
Just like in the first one the characters were my absolute favorite part of Betrayal. Lee Nichols has done such a fantastic job of making each and everyone even more relatable and developed, even going so far to introduce some new ones into the mix. Better yet, I loved what she has done with Emma's character, because not only is she more fierce and kick-butt before, but I truly enjoyed seeing how Emma grows as a ghostkeeper and person in this one. Plus I can't help but love the star crossed she has with a certain boy whose name begins with a B. I also enjoyed seeing her friendship with Natalie continue to develop as well as the intro of the new snarky boy named Lukas.
Adding to this all, the plot of this one was filled with lots of twists and turns and drama that nearly always had me on the edge of my seat, curious to know what would happen next to Emma and her friends and foes. And when mixed together with Lee's excellent writing and characters, this book was such a fun way to spend a morning.
Lastly, if you thought Deception had a nail-bitingly bad cliff-hanger ending just wait until she wait Lee has up her sleeve with this one. It'll make you want to pull at your hair and scream, but in the grand scheme of things it was worth it and the perfect way to end the book, and that all I'll say about that.
In all, if you loved Deception or even just liked it, you sure to love Betrayal. Filled with romance, funny, well developed characters, and twist and turns every step of the way, it's sure have nearly any reader in love with the story at hand!
And if you haven't read Deception yet for some reason, be sure to pick it up as well! I promise you won't regret it.
Grade: A+
Betrayal starts shortly after Deception ended with Emma picking up the pieces after her beloved friend Coby died under some usual circumstances involving her and her ghostkeeping world. The majority of her friends and schoolmates think she's the one to blame, and that's okay with her, because she does feel at fault and at least she still has Bennett and Natalie to call friends and in Bennett's case something more than just a friend. Plus, she has bigger fish to fry, namely the evil wraith-master Neos and his army who want nothing more than to see her dead. But after a horrifying event everything is left askew in Emma's world. Bennett has pulled away, going so far as to move out of the house, she has a new ghostkeeping team including one hot heated British boy and a snarky teen, and Neos is growing stronger each and every day. Will Emma be able to defeat Neos when she sees him again? And when Emma's parents make their grand return will everything begin to make sense? Better yet will her and Bennett ever reunite? Only time will tell in this deeply thrilling and romantic read that will have nearly any Haunting Emma fan asking for more, more, and more.
Just like in the first one the characters were my absolute favorite part of Betrayal. Lee Nichols has done such a fantastic job of making each and everyone even more relatable and developed, even going so far to introduce some new ones into the mix. Better yet, I loved what she has done with Emma's character, because not only is she more fierce and kick-butt before, but I truly enjoyed seeing how Emma grows as a ghostkeeper and person in this one. Plus I can't help but love the star crossed she has with a certain boy whose name begins with a B. I also enjoyed seeing her friendship with Natalie continue to develop as well as the intro of the new snarky boy named Lukas.
Adding to this all, the plot of this one was filled with lots of twists and turns and drama that nearly always had me on the edge of my seat, curious to know what would happen next to Emma and her friends and foes. And when mixed together with Lee's excellent writing and characters, this book was such a fun way to spend a morning.
Lastly, if you thought Deception had a nail-bitingly bad cliff-hanger ending just wait until she wait Lee has up her sleeve with this one. It'll make you want to pull at your hair and scream, but in the grand scheme of things it was worth it and the perfect way to end the book, and that all I'll say about that.
In all, if you loved Deception or even just liked it, you sure to love Betrayal. Filled with romance, funny, well developed characters, and twist and turns every step of the way, it's sure have nearly any reader in love with the story at hand!
And if you haven't read Deception yet for some reason, be sure to pick it up as well! I promise you won't regret it.
Grade: A+
March 27, 2011
Betrayal picks up right where Deception left off so if you haven't read the first book, this review might not make any sense so back up and read the first. It's a cute and short series and it's a serious page turner.
Emma had to deal with a missing family, the discovery of becoming a ghostkeeeper, a strange past, and a hot/cold relationship with the ever addictive Bennett. Oh and there is this evil ghost thing called Neos. Emma must over come it all. Bennett has finally admitted his feelings for Emma but they can't be together without her unintentionally taking away his ghostkeeper powers. This leaves Emma missing her man. And she is lonely as it is. Her school friends blame her for the death of their friend Coby. The good news is, she still has the ghosts at the museum/ Bennett's house, Natalie and a couple new ghostkeepers. And Coby? He's back as a ghost. Poor guy.
The pace picks up in this book. There is an attack on the main base for ghostkeepers and Emma has to find a way to destroy Neos and fast. Emma's life is in danger and some one close to her and her team is betraying them. They have to figure out who it is before it's too late. When she's not busy trying to save the world, she wants to get her friends and Bennett back in her life.
I will say that I liked the first book better than this sequel but I still really enjoyed it. It's one of those series that is an easy breezy read. The romance was a bit lacking for me but that's because Emma and Bennett can't really be around each other. I missed Bennett. He wasn't as prominent a character in this book. The new ghostkeeper characters were awesome. I really liked them. And I was really happy to see Coby back in the picture even as a ghost. The in house ghosts remain a constant and with Emma's family still missing and her friends not speaking to her, I liked that she had them. The end threw me for a loop. I was SOOOOO sad to find out who the traitor was because it was a character I really liked.
Overall, Betrayal was an enjoyable read. If you read the first and liked it than I think the sequel is worth picking up. This book is available now.
For this review and more like it- visit my blog at http://looksielovitz.blogspot.com
Emma had to deal with a missing family, the discovery of becoming a ghostkeeeper, a strange past, and a hot/cold relationship with the ever addictive Bennett. Oh and there is this evil ghost thing called Neos. Emma must over come it all. Bennett has finally admitted his feelings for Emma but they can't be together without her unintentionally taking away his ghostkeeper powers. This leaves Emma missing her man. And she is lonely as it is. Her school friends blame her for the death of their friend Coby. The good news is, she still has the ghosts at the museum/ Bennett's house, Natalie and a couple new ghostkeepers. And Coby? He's back as a ghost. Poor guy.
The pace picks up in this book. There is an attack on the main base for ghostkeepers and Emma has to find a way to destroy Neos and fast. Emma's life is in danger and some one close to her and her team is betraying them. They have to figure out who it is before it's too late. When she's not busy trying to save the world, she wants to get her friends and Bennett back in her life.
I will say that I liked the first book better than this sequel but I still really enjoyed it. It's one of those series that is an easy breezy read. The romance was a bit lacking for me but that's because Emma and Bennett can't really be around each other. I missed Bennett. He wasn't as prominent a character in this book. The new ghostkeeper characters were awesome. I really liked them. And I was really happy to see Coby back in the picture even as a ghost. The in house ghosts remain a constant and with Emma's family still missing and her friends not speaking to her, I liked that she had them. The end threw me for a loop. I was SOOOOO sad to find out who the traitor was because it was a character I really liked.
Overall, Betrayal was an enjoyable read. If you read the first and liked it than I think the sequel is worth picking up. This book is available now.
For this review and more like it- visit my blog at http://looksielovitz.blogspot.com
March 4, 2011
I loved Deception (the first book) and I have been waiting to read Betrayal and it did not disappoint. There were some great twists in this one & I wasn't sure what I believed. The thing I love best about this series is Emma because she is such a great character. She has things thrown at her and she has taken everything in stride. She has grown to be very kick butt, however she still has issues. Emma is a strong person but you can still relate to her. I was glad that Natalie, Coby, Sara, Harry, the house ghosts, and the jock ghosts were all in the book because I love all those characters. It was great to read about how everyone was coping with the aftermath of the first book. I also liked the introduction of Simon & Lukas, they were interesting characters & I hope that they will be in the next book. Also getting to experience the headquarters of the Knell was pretty cool.
It was a surprise to have Emma's parents pop in, but they were not there long and I wonder what, if any part they will play in the next book because they are awfully mysterious. Bennett's parents were intersting too & it will be fun to learn more about them in the next book. And then there is Bennett, who I absolutely loved in the first book, but in this one he made me mad. I could totally empathize with Emma because one minute everything was awesome then he up and leaves. I understand where he is coming from, but I am not sure I agree with the way he is going about things. I feel like he wussed out a little and that made me want to smack him & I felt bad for Emma. I really hope he gets his act together in the next book because he is changing & it is not for the better. I can't wait to see what will happen in the next book & whether or not Emma will finally be able to kill Neos & what will happen with her parents & Bennett.
It was a surprise to have Emma's parents pop in, but they were not there long and I wonder what, if any part they will play in the next book because they are awfully mysterious. Bennett's parents were intersting too & it will be fun to learn more about them in the next book. And then there is Bennett, who I absolutely loved in the first book, but in this one he made me mad. I could totally empathize with Emma because one minute everything was awesome then he up and leaves. I understand where he is coming from, but I am not sure I agree with the way he is going about things. I feel like he wussed out a little and that made me want to smack him & I felt bad for Emma. I really hope he gets his act together in the next book because he is changing & it is not for the better. I can't wait to see what will happen in the next book & whether or not Emma will finally be able to kill Neos & what will happen with her parents & Bennett.
March 5, 2011
I was really excited for the continuation of Emma’s story. The plot was still amazing in this book as Nichols has brought a whole new concept to the paranormal genre. I love the world that she has created with the different types of ghostkeepers. The reason Emma is so impressive is that she has all the powers that everyone else has independently and then some. In the second book her powers continue to grow exponentially and she proves what a loyal and protective person she is.
There are several really interesting twists that the plot takes in this story where the “impossible” happens and it leaves the reader shocked. I really enjoy that in a story. No I won’t disclose more but you can read for yourself. The slight unpredicatability of the story is an attractive part of the book.
I do think that the ending strings need to be tied up sooner rather than later. I don’t want this to turn into another drawn out series with the same conflicts spanning 12 or more books. I enjoy seeing different conflicts and resolutions in the series over time. I have no idea what Nichols has planned for the future I am just stating that I hope she has new conflicts in mind for later books.
**Spoiler** I really don’t like Emma and Bennett’s relationship in this book. It’s nothing against the author but I think other readers might have trouble with it as well. The whole idea of staying together no matter what even in a potentially destructive relationship doesn’t sit well with me. Their relationship takes some unhealthy turns and it was hard for me to stomach that with the book.
Overall I give it a 4/5. It didn’t completely wow me but it kept me interested and I am eagerly awaiting the next installment in this series. The storyline is great and the fictional world has the attention to detail that is difficult to achieve.
published at www.donotdisturbmybooks.blogspot.com
There are several really interesting twists that the plot takes in this story where the “impossible” happens and it leaves the reader shocked. I really enjoy that in a story. No I won’t disclose more but you can read for yourself. The slight unpredicatability of the story is an attractive part of the book.
I do think that the ending strings need to be tied up sooner rather than later. I don’t want this to turn into another drawn out series with the same conflicts spanning 12 or more books. I enjoy seeing different conflicts and resolutions in the series over time. I have no idea what Nichols has planned for the future I am just stating that I hope she has new conflicts in mind for later books.
**Spoiler** I really don’t like Emma and Bennett’s relationship in this book. It’s nothing against the author but I think other readers might have trouble with it as well. The whole idea of staying together no matter what even in a potentially destructive relationship doesn’t sit well with me. Their relationship takes some unhealthy turns and it was hard for me to stomach that with the book.
Overall I give it a 4/5. It didn’t completely wow me but it kept me interested and I am eagerly awaiting the next installment in this series. The storyline is great and the fictional world has the attention to detail that is difficult to achieve.
published at www.donotdisturbmybooks.blogspot.com
March 10, 2011
"As chilling and page-turning as Deception, this sequel will grab readers and hold them to the last page."
I agree one hundred percent, Deception was a great read and Betrayal is just as good if not better. Things are quickly changing for the ghostkeepers. Everything they thought was impossible is all of a sudden possible, and everything they believed to be rumored is real after all.
As Emma learns to deal with her friend's death and the weird relationship she has with Bennett, she has to also learn to use her powers and find out just how powerful she really is. In Deception I quickly fell in love with Emma's character and her relationship with Bennett.
In Betrayal, Lee Nichols managed to keep their personalities exactly the same. I've read so many books where in the first book, the characters were amazing and in the second book they become so whiny and weak. Not Emma! Even after Bennett leaves, she goes through a slight depression, but did not let it stop her from doing her duties as a ghostkeeper. She knows once it's all over, then maybe her and Bennett can be together.
Betrayal is full of surprises and twist, it was one shock after the other. Very easy to picture in your head and fast paced. A definite page-turner and I promise you will have goosebumps all over. I loved it and love Lee Nichol's way of writing. Betrayal is the second in her Emma Haunting series, So if you haven't read Deception, book one, I suggest you pick up a copy and enjoy the ride. :-)
www.goodchoicereading.com
August 21, 2011
Betrayal is the second book in the Haunting Emma series by Lee Nichols
Betrayal starts up right where we left Emma in the first book Deception and she is still coming to terms with the loss of two of her close friends. She is confused about her and Bennett's relationship, they both want to be together but can't as they are both ghostkeepers and Bennett will lose his powers. So until they find a way to defeat Neo's they both have to keep their distance and their feelings under control.
The story pretty much centres around finding and getting rid of Neos, who they now know is the one behind all the recent ghostkeeper murders. There are some bumps along the road for the group though and someone has been spilling information to Neos as he always seems to be one step ahead. There is a big mystery aspect to this book, a sort of "who done it" type thing, which I really loved. Betrayal had me guessing at the end of every chapter, I really had no idea what was coming next and I really enjoyed that about the book.
To me, Betrayal was much more action packed and faster paced that Deception was.
I loved the whole forbidden love storyline between Emma and Bennett and I especially loved all the mystery that surrounds almost everything in the book.
I loved the ending so much, I literally could not believe what I had just read, I sat there completely shocked for a good ten minutes before everything finally sunk in! I really cannot wait to get my hands on book three in this series now!
Betrayal starts up right where we left Emma in the first book Deception and she is still coming to terms with the loss of two of her close friends. She is confused about her and Bennett's relationship, they both want to be together but can't as they are both ghostkeepers and Bennett will lose his powers. So until they find a way to defeat Neo's they both have to keep their distance and their feelings under control.
The story pretty much centres around finding and getting rid of Neos, who they now know is the one behind all the recent ghostkeeper murders. There are some bumps along the road for the group though and someone has been spilling information to Neos as he always seems to be one step ahead. There is a big mystery aspect to this book, a sort of "who done it" type thing, which I really loved. Betrayal had me guessing at the end of every chapter, I really had no idea what was coming next and I really enjoyed that about the book.
To me, Betrayal was much more action packed and faster paced that Deception was.
I loved the whole forbidden love storyline between Emma and Bennett and I especially loved all the mystery that surrounds almost everything in the book.
I loved the ending so much, I literally could not believe what I had just read, I sat there completely shocked for a good ten minutes before everything finally sunk in! I really cannot wait to get my hands on book three in this series now!
December 26, 2011
Emma is dealing with a whole lot of issues - some more normal than others. She's in love with a boy she can't be with; she doesn't know where her parents are; her friends blame her for Coby's death ... As well as all of this, she's one of the most powerful ghostkeepers there is and so it's down to her to stop Neos, the wraith-master.
This second book continues pretty much right off from where the first one finished. I liked that there was only a small amount of recapping and that the story got going straight away. The characters are developing nicely and I found myself liking Emma's fellow ghostkeeper, Natalie, more in this book. On the downside there was a lack of Bennett, although this was for plot reasons so it's not all bad - I just wanted to see more of him. There's a couple of new characters in the form of two ghostkeepers sent by the Knell to make up a team with Emma and Natalie. Simon's the older, sensible one. The voice of reason although he's actually the weakest of the ghostkeepers in terms of power. Lukas is more the act now think never type and adds another dimension to the group.
Betrayal adds nicely to the overall plot of the series, moving it along at a good pace with plenty of action. It's also gets the right balance of having a good finish but still leaving you wanting to read more. I'm greatly looking forward to the third book.
This second book continues pretty much right off from where the first one finished. I liked that there was only a small amount of recapping and that the story got going straight away. The characters are developing nicely and I found myself liking Emma's fellow ghostkeeper, Natalie, more in this book. On the downside there was a lack of Bennett, although this was for plot reasons so it's not all bad - I just wanted to see more of him. There's a couple of new characters in the form of two ghostkeepers sent by the Knell to make up a team with Emma and Natalie. Simon's the older, sensible one. The voice of reason although he's actually the weakest of the ghostkeepers in terms of power. Lukas is more the act now think never type and adds another dimension to the group.
Betrayal adds nicely to the overall plot of the series, moving it along at a good pace with plenty of action. It's also gets the right balance of having a good finish but still leaving you wanting to read more. I'm greatly looking forward to the third book.
June 16, 2011
I thought this was a good continuation of the series, but I didn't like it as much as Deception and I wasn't left with very strong feelings about it.
The summary makes it seem like the entire plot is dedicated to finding out who the traitor is, when really that happens in only the last few chapters. The ending itself was a little too rushed for me. I felt like so much was happening in such a short amount of time. I didn't have time to process everything that had been learned and that had happened.
I wish there had been more character development as well. I connected fairly well with the characters in Deception, but there was a disconnect for me in this one. I saw what the characters were supposed to be like, but I did't feel it.
I also wanted to know more about new characters. I felt like I got to know Lukas and Simon pretty well, but I would have loved more information on the Siren. She seemed like an important part of the story, but nothing was ever done with her.
I know this sounds like a pretty negative review, but I really did enjoy Betrayal. It was a good sequel and the ending set it up (if a little too conveniently) for the next in the series.
The summary makes it seem like the entire plot is dedicated to finding out who the traitor is, when really that happens in only the last few chapters. The ending itself was a little too rushed for me. I felt like so much was happening in such a short amount of time. I didn't have time to process everything that had been learned and that had happened.
I wish there had been more character development as well. I connected fairly well with the characters in Deception, but there was a disconnect for me in this one. I saw what the characters were supposed to be like, but I did't feel it.
I also wanted to know more about new characters. I felt like I got to know Lukas and Simon pretty well, but I would have loved more information on the Siren. She seemed like an important part of the story, but nothing was ever done with her.
I know this sounds like a pretty negative review, but I really did enjoy Betrayal. It was a good sequel and the ending set it up (if a little too conveniently) for the next in the series.
May 8, 2012
Betrayal by Lee Nichols continues from where Deception left off and is just as good, if not even better! There is a lot of action fighting ghosts in this book and also her love life with Bennett heats up. Her friendships at school fall apart but then when she finally tells the truth about Coby, they are restored. There is a lot of ghost fighting action in this book and Simon and Lukas are assigned by the Knell to help Emma. The fun and humor continue with Coby in ghost form continuing to hang out with his old friends and Emma. When Emma takes on Neoss at the Knell, she is shocked to find out who it is that betrayed her.
Betrayal is a quick read because it keeps building suspense and was hard to put down. It’s part contemporary fiction and part fantasy. I think Bennett should stop taking the drug and just let Emma take all his power which would make her dispelling power stronger and allow them to be together. I love the dialog and look forward to reading the third book in this Haunting Emma series, “Surrender.” I recommend this series if you like humorous fantasy—it’s not really spooky even though there are a lot of ghosts and some time travel.
(Karen's review)
Betrayal is a quick read because it keeps building suspense and was hard to put down. It’s part contemporary fiction and part fantasy. I think Bennett should stop taking the drug and just let Emma take all his power which would make her dispelling power stronger and allow them to be together. I love the dialog and look forward to reading the third book in this Haunting Emma series, “Surrender.” I recommend this series if you like humorous fantasy—it’s not really spooky even though there are a lot of ghosts and some time travel.
(Karen's review)
April 3, 2012
Having really enjoyed Deception I picked up this one as soon as I'd finished the first one.
Now that Emma knows she is a Ghostkeeper and understands what it means she throws herself into her role. This installment is much more action packed than the first and there is still the romance and mystery element to keep me hooked!
The characters really develop in this one too. Emma becomes much stronger - and more accepting of her abilities. Her relationship with Bennett is still a driving force of the story but he was absent too much for my liking. We know why he's not staying near Emma but I really missed their interactions. But when he was present the scenes were awesome!
Some new characters are introduced and I loved them! I also have really taken to Natalie - I really think she is a good friend for Emma. And I loved learning more about Emma's family.
Again the story surprised me. It is completely unpredictable - I had no idea what was going to happen and I couldn't wait to find out. I am so looking forward to the third book - Surrender - when it's published! More please!
Now that Emma knows she is a Ghostkeeper and understands what it means she throws herself into her role. This installment is much more action packed than the first and there is still the romance and mystery element to keep me hooked!
The characters really develop in this one too. Emma becomes much stronger - and more accepting of her abilities. Her relationship with Bennett is still a driving force of the story but he was absent too much for my liking. We know why he's not staying near Emma but I really missed their interactions. But when he was present the scenes were awesome!
Some new characters are introduced and I loved them! I also have really taken to Natalie - I really think she is a good friend for Emma. And I loved learning more about Emma's family.
Again the story surprised me. It is completely unpredictable - I had no idea what was going to happen and I couldn't wait to find out. I am so looking forward to the third book - Surrender - when it's published! More please!
March 21, 2011
This is a fun, fast read. I am learning about the difference between great YA fiction and just fun stories. My favorite YA books - Hunger Games, Matched, Delirium - tell stories of young girls figuring out who they are and usually involve some kind of romance. This series does too. The difference, though, is that the really good ones also hold up a mirror to our culture and offer some kind of social commentary, whether it's about our taste for violence, the slippery slope of reality television or online dating, or the power of conformity. The Haunting Emma books are just the story of a young girl who fights ghosts and falls in love. It's fun for a weekend reading in bed, but I won't be thinking about it in the days or weeks ahead like I did with the better series.
January 19, 2011
ARC review.
Betrayal is a fantastic installment in the Haunting Emma series. In this second outing Bennett pops up here and there but there are compelling reasons for his absence. His absence gives the reader a chance to get to know the other people in Emma's world and to view the real bonds she is forming with her new "family". (Right now her "real" family's actions and motivations are so confusing and unclear.) I found myself questioning and doubting everyone right along with Emma and this book took me along for the ride. Loved it.
Betrayal is a fantastic installment in the Haunting Emma series. In this second outing Bennett pops up here and there but there are compelling reasons for his absence. His absence gives the reader a chance to get to know the other people in Emma's world and to view the real bonds she is forming with her new "family". (Right now her "real" family's actions and motivations are so confusing and unclear.) I found myself questioning and doubting everyone right along with Emma and this book took me along for the ride. Loved it.
October 25, 2010
It was good. Not as good as the first. I seemed to have forgotten a few things, because I wasn't clear on a couple of things that were happening. I didn't like how Bennett was so absent in this book, how the parents seemed to creep in for a moment or the brother sent a cryptic message that barely warned of anything. If you're going to help her, help her. I felt like all of it was to drag the story on. With no real result at the end.
June 9, 2012
I liked Betrayal better than the first one Deception, someone Emma trusts and loves is deceiving her and honestly I kept guessing this person, no that person, and back around again until the end and I suprised at who it was...not gonna say though no spoils. I really liked the new guy Lukas and the jock ghosts were hilarious and Harry as always. Looking forward to reading Surrender, hopefully Emma will get the bad guy and also get Bennett too!!
October 15, 2012
Book 2 in this series, even better than the first! Loving this series, quick easy reads but very interesting and entertaining too. Love the bits of humor. All the characters are great. This book shed light on who Neos is and why he is so evil and power hungry. I still haven't fully understood about Emma's parents and brother.... But I guess some things had to be left for the third book, :).
Bring on book 3! Becky, hurry up and order it, lol. :D
Bring on book 3! Becky, hurry up and order it, lol. :D
June 12, 2011
Okay, let me get this straight. When the Betrayal synopsis said “Heartbroken and alone” it’s not like Bennett said “Uh, yeah, Emma? We gotta break up ‘cause I need as much power as I can get right now”. Well, actually that’s pretty close to what happened, but Bennett’s version is so much hotter and not an official break up. ‘Sides, if Bennett did that, Emma would haunt the hell out of him.
Anyway, in Deception, we meet Emma, our super-awesome, ghost busting, compassionate and complacent-ish ghost keeper. Now in Betrayal we delve further into the mystery that is Emma, Neos, and the dangers of certain herbs… With this I just mean the story progresses, not anything fancy. Well, not unless you count unbelievably sexy scenes with Emma and Bennett. Seriously, Bennett is like “touch and go”, literally.
At the end of Deception Emma and Bennett are finally together, Coby is dead, as well as a bunch of other casualties resulting from Neos’ rampage. The Knell requests a meeting with Emma. Why? Well, wouldn’t you want to meet a teenage newbie ghostkeeper who’s possibly more powerful than the entire ghost keeper society? And that’s about where Deception ends.
Directly in the beginning of Betrayal, we see Emma waiting outside a graveyard (which she found kind of awkward too) while the rest of her “friends” attended Coby’s funeral, an event she wasn’t invited too because she’s the “QBK” – Quarterback Killer. Sara and Henry, and pretty much the rest of Thatcher hate her guts ‘cause she killed Coby. Her only friends seem to be Natalie, Bennett, and the housekeeping party at Bennett’s house. That is, until Bennett leaves, and we discover a traitor amongst them…
There were actually a lot of plot twists in Betrayal, each one leaving me at an “Ohmygod!!” With all these plot twists – though some surprised me more than others – Lee Nichols made sure that the story was orderly, not going in one direction then pulling a U-turn. What were some of the HUGE plot twists/surprises? Well, for one thing the traitor amongst them was someone I could NEVER have EVER seen. They always seemed so innocent and nice!! Another huge surprise that aggravated me the most would have to be what Bennett does. Oh~ Bennett… why?
Man, Lee Nichols is good. I mean, she made me fall in love with Bennett in, like, 2 words, and made me stay in love with him (despite what he does) with another. Not only that, but my problem that I had with Deception – in that I got headaches during certain parts – was GONE!! Now this is what I call evolution as a writer! I definitely like Betrayal more than Deception. Well, it’s probably because Deception was the first book, and she had to introduce all these new concepts and by Betrayal, we already got used to it.
Favourite things about Betrayal would have to include the surprisingly-unsexy-words-made-sexy by Bennett. I also enjoyed the two new characters, Simon and Lukas. And one of the better things about Betrayal is how even though Bennett ditched Emma, she doesn’t fall into a dark abyss of nothingness. She moves on! And while doing so, kicks ghost Neo ass!!
The third and final Haunting Emma Novel: Surrender is set to release December 6, 2011.
After a devastating battle at headquarters in New York, the ghostkeeping world is in shambles. When Emma and Bennett return home, they are determined to defeat the wraithmaster, Neos, forever. But it's not going to be easy. Bennett's parents kick him out when they realize he is still using drugs to enhance his powers. Emma is convinced her aunt has come back from the dead to warn her of a new threat. And worst of all, Neos is using wraiths to possess the students at Thatcher Academy. If the ghosts manage to take over the entire school, even Emma won't be strong enough to stop them. But if either she or Bennett sacrifice his or her powers, they might be able to save the ghostkeeping world once and for all-and break the "ghostkeepers lose their powers when they fall in love" curse. The question is: who will be the one to surrender all power?
Fast-paced and romantic, this conclusion to the Haunting Emma trilogy will thrill readers as it brings the ghostly mystery to a close
EXCERPT FROM SURRENDER:
I didn’t go to school the next day. Simon never would’ve let me get away with that, but the Sterns either didn’t care or were stuck in the mire of their own depression. How would I know? I never even left my room.
Natalie and Lukas both knocked. I’d learned my lesson, though, and shoved my chair under the handle, so Natalie couldn’t barge in. I heard her trying to talk Lukas into smashing in, but he refused. Either he didn’t want to get in trouble with the Sterns, or he understood I just wanted to be alone. It was more of a guy reaction to a problem. I’d noticed girls often liked to cry and relive every moment of distress with a friend. I wasn’t that kind of girl.
Instead I listened to Bennett’s songs over and over. I kept my laptop in bed in with me, so I could look up the lyrics online and memorize them. One of the songs was about how life had no music ‘before you.’ That’s how I felt, like all the music and color had gone out of the world. Sometimes a song could really hit you, even if it was from an artist who usually sang about her lady parts.
http://tinyurl.com/3d4ojfg
Anyway, in Deception, we meet Emma, our super-awesome, ghost busting, compassionate and complacent-ish ghost keeper. Now in Betrayal we delve further into the mystery that is Emma, Neos, and the dangers of certain herbs… With this I just mean the story progresses, not anything fancy. Well, not unless you count unbelievably sexy scenes with Emma and Bennett. Seriously, Bennett is like “touch and go”, literally.
At the end of Deception Emma and Bennett are finally together, Coby is dead, as well as a bunch of other casualties resulting from Neos’ rampage. The Knell requests a meeting with Emma. Why? Well, wouldn’t you want to meet a teenage newbie ghostkeeper who’s possibly more powerful than the entire ghost keeper society? And that’s about where Deception ends.
Directly in the beginning of Betrayal, we see Emma waiting outside a graveyard (which she found kind of awkward too) while the rest of her “friends” attended Coby’s funeral, an event she wasn’t invited too because she’s the “QBK” – Quarterback Killer. Sara and Henry, and pretty much the rest of Thatcher hate her guts ‘cause she killed Coby. Her only friends seem to be Natalie, Bennett, and the housekeeping party at Bennett’s house. That is, until Bennett leaves, and we discover a traitor amongst them…
There were actually a lot of plot twists in Betrayal, each one leaving me at an “Ohmygod!!” With all these plot twists – though some surprised me more than others – Lee Nichols made sure that the story was orderly, not going in one direction then pulling a U-turn. What were some of the HUGE plot twists/surprises? Well, for one thing the traitor amongst them was someone I could NEVER have EVER seen. They always seemed so innocent and nice!! Another huge surprise that aggravated me the most would have to be what Bennett does. Oh~ Bennett… why?
Man, Lee Nichols is good. I mean, she made me fall in love with Bennett in, like, 2 words, and made me stay in love with him (despite what he does) with another. Not only that, but my problem that I had with Deception – in that I got headaches during certain parts – was GONE!! Now this is what I call evolution as a writer! I definitely like Betrayal more than Deception. Well, it’s probably because Deception was the first book, and she had to introduce all these new concepts and by Betrayal, we already got used to it.
Favourite things about Betrayal would have to include the surprisingly-unsexy-words-made-sexy by Bennett. I also enjoyed the two new characters, Simon and Lukas. And one of the better things about Betrayal is how even though Bennett ditched Emma, she doesn’t fall into a dark abyss of nothingness. She moves on! And while doing so, kicks ghost Neo ass!!
The third and final Haunting Emma Novel: Surrender is set to release December 6, 2011.
After a devastating battle at headquarters in New York, the ghostkeeping world is in shambles. When Emma and Bennett return home, they are determined to defeat the wraithmaster, Neos, forever. But it's not going to be easy. Bennett's parents kick him out when they realize he is still using drugs to enhance his powers. Emma is convinced her aunt has come back from the dead to warn her of a new threat. And worst of all, Neos is using wraiths to possess the students at Thatcher Academy. If the ghosts manage to take over the entire school, even Emma won't be strong enough to stop them. But if either she or Bennett sacrifice his or her powers, they might be able to save the ghostkeeping world once and for all-and break the "ghostkeepers lose their powers when they fall in love" curse. The question is: who will be the one to surrender all power?
Fast-paced and romantic, this conclusion to the Haunting Emma trilogy will thrill readers as it brings the ghostly mystery to a close
EXCERPT FROM SURRENDER:
I didn’t go to school the next day. Simon never would’ve let me get away with that, but the Sterns either didn’t care or were stuck in the mire of their own depression. How would I know? I never even left my room.
Natalie and Lukas both knocked. I’d learned my lesson, though, and shoved my chair under the handle, so Natalie couldn’t barge in. I heard her trying to talk Lukas into smashing in, but he refused. Either he didn’t want to get in trouble with the Sterns, or he understood I just wanted to be alone. It was more of a guy reaction to a problem. I’d noticed girls often liked to cry and relive every moment of distress with a friend. I wasn’t that kind of girl.
Instead I listened to Bennett’s songs over and over. I kept my laptop in bed in with me, so I could look up the lyrics online and memorize them. One of the songs was about how life had no music ‘before you.’ That’s how I felt, like all the music and color had gone out of the world. Sometimes a song could really hit you, even if it was from an artist who usually sang about her lady parts.
http://tinyurl.com/3d4ojfg
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2018
I read this book for the "A Book With The Letter 'Y' In The Title" part of my 2018 reading challenge. It was a bit confusing at first, having not read book 1 but it was ok after a couple chapters. The plot moved quickly and didn't seem to have a realistic timespan, also the battles seemed to take 20 seconds. Reminded me a lot like City of Bones by Cassandra Clare.
November 17, 2019
This series just gets better and better omg I am starting the third one now !! I don’t want it to end.
October 20, 2020
I completely agree with Reading Vacations review of this book.
May 26, 2021
I didn't hate this...as much as I thought i was going to and who knows? Maybe if I had read the first one this would even be a four star
Read
January 4, 2024Loved it
I absolutely love this series and can't wait to read to next one!!!
I adore the forbidden love between Emma and Bennett, but I hate that Antonio had to die.
I absolutely love this series and can't wait to read to next one!!!
I adore the forbidden love between Emma and Bennett, but I hate that Antonio had to die.
October 19, 2025
I was trying to enter a new genre of literature and let me tell you this has to be one of the most interesting depictions of climax and conflict.
June 3, 2014
4.5/5
Betrayal is a brilliant sequel to the Deception, and the Haunting Emma series is fast become one of my favourites! The book begins soon after the end of Deception, with the funeral of Emma’s friend Coby. Coby’s friends Harry and Sara blame Emma for his death, and refuse to speak to her anymore, and Emma becomes a social outcast in school. Worst of all, things with Bennett, the guy Emma would do anything to be with, are not working out – Bennett doesn’t want to lose his ghostkeeping powers until Neos is defeated, but being near Emma puts him in danger of doing exactly that, and he can’t take that risk. So Bennett leaves Emma, with the promise they’ll be together once Neos is gone, but that doesn’t really do much to ease Emma’s mind. She now has a new guardian, Simon, who brings along with him another ghostkeeper called Lukas. With a new team to adjust to and a life-threatening fight to prepare for, Emma is starting to realise the pressure she is under – she may be the most powerful ghostkeeper around, but even she gets scared sometimes.
Betrayal was a great addition to the Haunting Emma series, and I really enjoyed it! Emma had to deal with a lot in this once and I think she coped quite well with it all, even though it made her feel miserable a lot of the time. To have such an amazing time with Bennett to then be separated from him must have been awful, and I think we as readers missed Bennett just as much as Emma did! He popped up here and there though, and while I loved every scene they were in together (and there were some superawesome sexy ones), I did notice him changing as the story progressed. I won’t tell you what happens, because it’s spoilery, but the Bennettt at the end of Betrayal was not the same Bennettt at the end of Deception, and though Emma loved him just as much, she noticed the change in him too, and I’m expecting there to be some conflict in the next book, Surrender.
Natalie was even better in this book. She was a great friend to Emma, and tried to cheer her up, and she also defended her when Harry and Sara were shouting abuse or whenever someone was being nasty. She knew Emma well, and was the type of friend I think everyone wished they had – loyal, kind, funny and trustworthy. As for Harry and Sara – I could understand that they were going through a very tough time, losing such an important person to them, but I do think they were a little too harsh on Emma. Coby wanted Emma to talk to them and explain what happened, but Harry had started drinking again and Sara refused to listen, so Emma was put in a very difficult position. She still cared about her old friends, though, despite what they thought of her, and I think in the end, she did what was right, and I’m glad things worked out the way they did.
The newcomers, Simon and Lukas, were both very interesting characters. Simon was the oldest, and took on the guardian role – he was very strict and snappy a lot of the time, but I do think he cared about Emma and everyone and tried his best to protect them. He also knew a lot about ghostkeeping, and I have a feeling he actually knew a lot more than he let on about a few things, and while not very powerful, he was definitely a great ghostkeeper. He even made a joke or two, and I liked reading about him. Lukas seemed almost the opposite of Simon – he loved the ladies, and never missed the chance to flirt outrageously with Natalie, or make some funny comments about Emma. He injected some fun and light-heartedness into the story, and made a great addition to the ghostkeeping team, I think.
I really liked the ending of Betrayal, and felt it set up the next book perfectly - leaving you curious but not frustrated. There was actually a little extract of book three, Surrender, at the back of Betrayal, and after reading it, I’ve gotta say I’m really excited about the next book, and I can’t wait to read it! It looks like it’s going to be another awesome read.
Overall, Betrayal was an excellent, fast-paced read, and these books, in my opinion, are some of the best ghost stories around in the YA genre. Highly recommended.
Betrayal is a brilliant sequel to the Deception, and the Haunting Emma series is fast become one of my favourites! The book begins soon after the end of Deception, with the funeral of Emma’s friend Coby. Coby’s friends Harry and Sara blame Emma for his death, and refuse to speak to her anymore, and Emma becomes a social outcast in school. Worst of all, things with Bennett, the guy Emma would do anything to be with, are not working out – Bennett doesn’t want to lose his ghostkeeping powers until Neos is defeated, but being near Emma puts him in danger of doing exactly that, and he can’t take that risk. So Bennett leaves Emma, with the promise they’ll be together once Neos is gone, but that doesn’t really do much to ease Emma’s mind. She now has a new guardian, Simon, who brings along with him another ghostkeeper called Lukas. With a new team to adjust to and a life-threatening fight to prepare for, Emma is starting to realise the pressure she is under – she may be the most powerful ghostkeeper around, but even she gets scared sometimes.
Betrayal was a great addition to the Haunting Emma series, and I really enjoyed it! Emma had to deal with a lot in this once and I think she coped quite well with it all, even though it made her feel miserable a lot of the time. To have such an amazing time with Bennett to then be separated from him must have been awful, and I think we as readers missed Bennett just as much as Emma did! He popped up here and there though, and while I loved every scene they were in together (and there were some superawesome sexy ones), I did notice him changing as the story progressed. I won’t tell you what happens, because it’s spoilery, but the Bennettt at the end of Betrayal was not the same Bennettt at the end of Deception, and though Emma loved him just as much, she noticed the change in him too, and I’m expecting there to be some conflict in the next book, Surrender.
Natalie was even better in this book. She was a great friend to Emma, and tried to cheer her up, and she also defended her when Harry and Sara were shouting abuse or whenever someone was being nasty. She knew Emma well, and was the type of friend I think everyone wished they had – loyal, kind, funny and trustworthy. As for Harry and Sara – I could understand that they were going through a very tough time, losing such an important person to them, but I do think they were a little too harsh on Emma. Coby wanted Emma to talk to them and explain what happened, but Harry had started drinking again and Sara refused to listen, so Emma was put in a very difficult position. She still cared about her old friends, though, despite what they thought of her, and I think in the end, she did what was right, and I’m glad things worked out the way they did.
The newcomers, Simon and Lukas, were both very interesting characters. Simon was the oldest, and took on the guardian role – he was very strict and snappy a lot of the time, but I do think he cared about Emma and everyone and tried his best to protect them. He also knew a lot about ghostkeeping, and I have a feeling he actually knew a lot more than he let on about a few things, and while not very powerful, he was definitely a great ghostkeeper. He even made a joke or two, and I liked reading about him. Lukas seemed almost the opposite of Simon – he loved the ladies, and never missed the chance to flirt outrageously with Natalie, or make some funny comments about Emma. He injected some fun and light-heartedness into the story, and made a great addition to the ghostkeeping team, I think.
I really liked the ending of Betrayal, and felt it set up the next book perfectly - leaving you curious but not frustrated. There was actually a little extract of book three, Surrender, at the back of Betrayal, and after reading it, I’ve gotta say I’m really excited about the next book, and I can’t wait to read it! It looks like it’s going to be another awesome read.
Overall, Betrayal was an excellent, fast-paced read, and these books, in my opinion, are some of the best ghost stories around in the YA genre. Highly recommended.
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