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Renegades#2
Archenemies
Time is running out. Together, they can save the world. But are they each other's worst nightmare?
Nova's double life is about to get a lot more complicated:
As Insomnia, she is a full-fledged member of the Renegades, a syndicate of powerful and beloved superheroes. She works with Adrian's patrol unit to protect the weak and maintain order in Gatlon City.
As Nightmare, she is an Anarchist—a group of villains who are determined to destroy the Renegades. Nova wants vengeance against the so-called heroes who once failed her when she needed them the most.
But as Nova, her feelings for Adrian are deepening, despite the fact that he is the son of her sworn enemies and, unbeknownst to Nova, he has some dangerous secrets of his own.
In this second installment of the Renegades trilogy, Nova, Adrian, and the rest of their crew—Ruby, Oscar, and Danna—are faced with escalating crime in Gatlon City, while covert weapons and conflicting missions have Nova and Adrian questioning not only their beliefs about justice but also the feelings they have for each other.
The line between good and evil has been blurred, but what's clear to them both is that too much power could mean the end of their City—and the world—as they know it.
Nova's double life is about to get a lot more complicated:
As Insomnia, she is a full-fledged member of the Renegades, a syndicate of powerful and beloved superheroes. She works with Adrian's patrol unit to protect the weak and maintain order in Gatlon City.
As Nightmare, she is an Anarchist—a group of villains who are determined to destroy the Renegades. Nova wants vengeance against the so-called heroes who once failed her when she needed them the most.
But as Nova, her feelings for Adrian are deepening, despite the fact that he is the son of her sworn enemies and, unbeknownst to Nova, he has some dangerous secrets of his own.
In this second installment of the Renegades trilogy, Nova, Adrian, and the rest of their crew—Ruby, Oscar, and Danna—are faced with escalating crime in Gatlon City, while covert weapons and conflicting missions have Nova and Adrian questioning not only their beliefs about justice but also the feelings they have for each other.
The line between good and evil has been blurred, but what's clear to them both is that too much power could mean the end of their City—and the world—as they know it.
471 pages, Hardcover
First published November 6, 2018
About the author
Marissa Meyer
74books127kfollowersI live in Tacoma, Washington, with my husband and beautiful twin daughters. Represented by Jill Grinberg. Learn more about me and my upcoming books athttp://www.marissameyer.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 10,152 reviews
November 30, 2018
Marissa Meyer has done it again. I am TRULY blown away byArchenemies.Stay tuned for my spoiler-filled video review!
CW: violence, oppression
Renegadeswas already a fantastically constructed world, butArchenemiesbreaks the boundaries for what we know of Gatlon City. I cannot get enough of the politics of this world. Conflict goes far beyond what we already know of the Renegades’ power and the Anarchists’ will for vengeance. Morals are questioned, friends become suspects, and tensions are higher than ever. I really love the direction Marissa Meyer has taken with the second installment in terms of how superheroes are viewed and how supervillains are treated. The power dynamics in this story are captivating and complex, and I’m desperate for more.
Once again, I love the cast of characters in this series. Every character, including many of the side characters, receive additional development that helps them to become authentic and refreshing. I loved watching Adrian and Nova grow as individuals and a team, alongside the rest of the Renegades and Anarchists. This series has one of the most compelling groups of companions I’ve read in YA in a very long time. Additionally, the romance is – once again – fabulous! I amHEREfor more slow burn enemies-to-lovers (where-one-does-not-even-know-they-are-enemies) relationships. Nova and Adrian are a fierce, yet sweet couple, and I also loved the introduction of a new budding romance between teammates. Not only does this story have a wicked plot, but there’s a spectacular cast of characters holding it up.
When comparingRenegadesandArchenemies,I do feel I preferRenegades,but only slightly. It’s even tough to say I ACTUALLY prefer one over the other because they are both remarkable in their own ways. As a plot-based reader, I preferRenegadesbecause it is more action-packed, but I do find myself also drawn toArchenemiesfor it’s strong and ever-developing political arc. Though that is my preference, I don’t think one is greatly “better” than the other.Archenemiesis a satisfying sequel that will leave you wanting more and more.
Renegadesis amazing.Archenemiesis equally amazing. I would highly highly recommend this series – it is one of my new absolute favorites of all time. One more note on the sequel though - Prepare yourselves for yet another unbearable ending...
I received a free copy of this book from Macmillan. I had no obligation to review this book and all opinions are my own.
CW: violence, oppression
Renegadeswas already a fantastically constructed world, butArchenemiesbreaks the boundaries for what we know of Gatlon City. I cannot get enough of the politics of this world. Conflict goes far beyond what we already know of the Renegades’ power and the Anarchists’ will for vengeance. Morals are questioned, friends become suspects, and tensions are higher than ever. I really love the direction Marissa Meyer has taken with the second installment in terms of how superheroes are viewed and how supervillains are treated. The power dynamics in this story are captivating and complex, and I’m desperate for more.
Once again, I love the cast of characters in this series. Every character, including many of the side characters, receive additional development that helps them to become authentic and refreshing. I loved watching Adrian and Nova grow as individuals and a team, alongside the rest of the Renegades and Anarchists. This series has one of the most compelling groups of companions I’ve read in YA in a very long time. Additionally, the romance is – once again – fabulous! I amHEREfor more slow burn enemies-to-lovers (where-one-does-not-even-know-they-are-enemies) relationships. Nova and Adrian are a fierce, yet sweet couple, and I also loved the introduction of a new budding romance between teammates. Not only does this story have a wicked plot, but there’s a spectacular cast of characters holding it up.
When comparingRenegadesandArchenemies,I do feel I preferRenegades,but only slightly. It’s even tough to say I ACTUALLY prefer one over the other because they are both remarkable in their own ways. As a plot-based reader, I preferRenegadesbecause it is more action-packed, but I do find myself also drawn toArchenemiesfor it’s strong and ever-developing political arc. Though that is my preference, I don’t think one is greatly “better” than the other.Archenemiesis a satisfying sequel that will leave you wanting more and more.
Renegadesis amazing.Archenemiesis equally amazing. I would highly highly recommend this series – it is one of my new absolute favorites of all time. One more note on the sequel though - Prepare yourselves for yet another unbearable ending...
I received a free copy of this book from Macmillan. I had no obligation to review this book and all opinions are my own.
November 10, 2018
I am trying so hard to love this series but it just isn't working.
After not enjoyingCinder,I went on to love the rest of the Lunar Chronicles, so I was really hoping I could do that with this series. I was hoping thatRenegadeswas just a shaky start to something much better. And, for a while, I convinced myself I liked this one more than the first. But aside from a few good bits, I think I'll just have to admit these books are not for me.
Let's break it down.
Honestly, I find almost everyone annoying and one-dimensional. Every single character is defined by their powers and has virtually no personality beyond this. Despite some attempts to add some morally grey areas, pretty much every character can be neatly separated into good guys or bad guys. It's so simplistic and bland. Plus, Adrian is sappy as all hell. Even Nova turns to mush in this book. Outside of those two, most of the characters feel interchangeable.
What is the plot here? If it's supposed to be Nova's infiltration and revenge then, wow, that is not coming across very well. Maybe because she is just so bad at it. Is she even trying? It definitely doesn't feel like it. In fact, the whole "I hate the Renegades and must have revenge" angle seems like a poor cover for what is evidentlynothing but a romance.And about that...
InRenegades,romance sat quietly in the background, but here it is genuinely the whole book. This sequel became so unnecessarily cheesy and sappy. It felt like every single scene was an excuse for Nova to pretend to pretend to flirt with Adrian while actually just flirting with him. Afterwards, of course, she's all "shucks, why do I have these feelings? It's all part of the mission!"
And just... where’s the tension? There’s no way these two won’t end up together, right? No way. It’s so clear the way it’s headed that I find myself hoping I’ll be pleasantly surprised by Meyer having one of them fall off a building and die instead. Which, obviously, should not be my reaction to the central romance.
I also think I threw up in my mouth a little at the scene where Adrianliterallymakes Nova's dreams come true.
Seriously, I get it already! How many times will I have to read Nova's mantra about how the Renegades are just so terrible because they didn’t save her family? She has to think it again every few chapters, lest we stop being annoyed by it! In fact, every time she repeats something like:
I find it less convincing. I think it's a weak idea anyway that she will betray these people she's become so close to because they weren't there to save her parents. Reiterating it doesn't make it any better.
I'm also tired of Nova insisting she is playing a part by flirting with Adrian then noting how she must “ignore” those strange feelings in her stomach. I gotta say, it didn’t feel much like “ignoring” because she brought it up in most of the chapters.
To be fair, I think Meyer actually toned it down some inArchenemies.The superhero dialogue was even worse in the first book. Still, I cannot take it seriously when the characters say things like "Who are you?" "Your worst nightmare." It sounds so silly. That will ALWAYS make me think of...
I guess this particular brand of superhero story may not be for me. The tropes of the genre (such as how no one knows Adrian is The Sentinel even though he practically wears a sign saying "it is me" ) make it difficult for me to suspend disbelief, and the black and white view of good vs evil is uninteresting to me. I think it's all just very simplistic - from the characters' motivations to the standard YA romance. I also dislike the decision to have Adrian's tattoos be able to bestow any power or make someone immune to pretty much anything; it seems to defeat the point of everyone having unique powers and weaknesses.
Oh well, I gave it a good chance.
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After not enjoyingCinder,I went on to love the rest of the Lunar Chronicles, so I was really hoping I could do that with this series. I was hoping thatRenegadeswas just a shaky start to something much better. And, for a while, I convinced myself I liked this one more than the first. But aside from a few good bits, I think I'll just have to admit these books are not for me.
Let's break it down.
» The characters.
Honestly, I find almost everyone annoying and one-dimensional. Every single character is defined by their powers and has virtually no personality beyond this. Despite some attempts to add some morally grey areas, pretty much every character can be neatly separated into good guys or bad guys. It's so simplistic and bland. Plus, Adrian is sappy as all hell. Even Nova turns to mush in this book. Outside of those two, most of the characters feel interchangeable.
» The plot.
What is the plot here? If it's supposed to be Nova's infiltration and revenge then, wow, that is not coming across very well. Maybe because she is just so bad at it. Is she even trying? It definitely doesn't feel like it. In fact, the whole "I hate the Renegades and must have revenge" angle seems like a poor cover for what is evidentlynothing but a romance.And about that...
» The romance.
InRenegades,romance sat quietly in the background, but here it is genuinely the whole book. This sequel became so unnecessarily cheesy and sappy. It felt like every single scene was an excuse for Nova to pretend to pretend to flirt with Adrian while actually just flirting with him. Afterwards, of course, she's all "shucks, why do I have these feelings? It's all part of the mission!"
And just... where’s the tension? There’s no way these two won’t end up together, right? No way. It’s so clear the way it’s headed that I find myself hoping I’ll be pleasantly surprised by Meyer having one of them fall off a building and die instead. Which, obviously, should not be my reaction to the central romance.
I also think I threw up in my mouth a little at the scene where Adrianliterallymakes Nova's dreams come true.
» The repetition.
Seriously, I get it already! How many times will I have to read Nova's mantra about how the Renegades are just so terrible because they didn’t save her family? She has to think it again every few chapters, lest we stop being annoyed by it! In fact, every time she repeats something like:
This was why she was here. To put an end to the idolizing of these so-called heroes and the promises they made but couldn’t keep. The heroes who had not saved her family. Who had not saved her. The heroes who had ruined Ace.
I find it less convincing. I think it's a weak idea anyway that she will betray these people she's become so close to because they weren't there to save her parents. Reiterating it doesn't make it any better.
I'm also tired of Nova insisting she is playing a part by flirting with Adrian then noting how she must “ignore” those strange feelings in her stomach. I gotta say, it didn’t feel much like “ignoring” because she brought it up in most of the chapters.
» Cheesy dialogue.
To be fair, I think Meyer actually toned it down some inArchenemies.The superhero dialogue was even worse in the first book. Still, I cannot take it seriously when the characters say things like "Who are you?" "Your worst nightmare." It sounds so silly. That will ALWAYS make me think of...
I guess this particular brand of superhero story may not be for me. The tropes of the genre (such as how no one knows Adrian is The Sentinel even though he practically wears a sign saying "it is me" ) make it difficult for me to suspend disbelief, and the black and white view of good vs evil is uninteresting to me. I think it's all just very simplistic - from the characters' motivations to the standard YA romance. I also dislike the decision to have Adrian's tattoos be able to bestow any power or make someone immune to pretty much anything; it seems to defeat the point of everyone having unique powers and weaknesses.
Oh well, I gave it a good chance.
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November 6, 2018
happy book birthday to Archenemies!! my gift is that i posted this mildly negative full review on my blog. find it here:https://emmareadstoomuch.wordpress.co...
-----------
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: Life is teeming with disappointments.
The fact that that is closer than anything else to becoming my catchphrase is, in a word, concerning. I was hoping that when I inevitably developed a catchphrase, it’d be something cool, like “cleanup on aisle 7” (for when I commit murders) or “all in a day’s work” (for when I do something very cool that should not be a casual or daily occurrence).
But this works too.
Renegades was a meh read for me, but when I finished, I was like, “Potential!!” There were plotlines and relationships that were set up that I thought, if they played out a certain way, could be really fun. I had hopes for Archenemies.
What I did not remember - which is crazy because I do pride myself on my pessimism - is that if things can go one way and go well, they can also go another way and go very badly.
That is what happened here.
Let’s go one by one.
THE CHARACTERS
In my Renegades review, I basically listed off a bunch of characters and declared that I didn’t like any of them per se, but also didn’t dislike any of them, and if a very specific set of events occurred in Archenemies I could, perhaps, come away with an appreciation for one or two.
Guess what didn’t happen.
(The opposite happened.)
The characters in this book were B A D. That’s right! No abstractions. They were straight up unpleasant, and/or non-present. Here was my ranking of ability-to-potentially-like-any-given-character, from “one cool fight scene and some banter” away to “this character would have to spend 500 pages being unadulteratedly amusing for me to even give half a sh*t, but theoretically anything’s possible.”
- Nova
- Oscar
- Ruby
- Honey
- Adrian
This is some high potential for me!! I almost never like characters. I’m picky. I have high standards. But I waswilling to believe.
For you to fully understand the sheer extent to which my ability to hope was made a mockery, I need to tell you three simultaneous things that happened in this book.
1. All characters except Nova (who I was closest to liking) and Adrian (least close) were basically dropped. We rarely heard from anyone except those two.
2. Nova became insufferable.
3. Adrian grew worse than I ever could have imagined.
GUYS. IT WAS AWFUL. Honey and Ruby and Oscar, the only characters who were ever really even anywhere close to approaching funny? GONEZO. Sayonara!
So now we are in the suffocating embrace of literally only Nova and Adrian (which is terrible for an additional reason that we will get to). Which would maybe be okay, if they were better than in Renegades, or even if they were exactly the same. I’m not asking for much.
BUT APPARENTLY NOT MUCH IS TOO MUCH TO ASK FOR.
Nova spends this entire book being overwhelmingly, unrelentingly selfish. She put the lives of children and innocents on the line, she manipulated perfectly nice people, she lied and stole and deceived, all to achieve her ends. And she was really annoying about it, too, which was the worst bit of all.
Adrian was just Boring McBoringson. All he cared about was his dumb alter ego and his boring parents and guess what? I do not care about either of those things.
It’s such a long character development arc, from all-evil/all-good to complex, and the second book really gets the short end of the stick for that. Basically both Adrian and Nova spent the whole time in one (1) repetitive thought process, which wasn’t even interesting in the first place.
Except for one other thought process.
THE ROMANCE
Picture me dramatically collapsing to my knees, shaking my fists beseechingly at the sky, screaming “NOOOOO!”
For, my friends, I have been made a fool of.
I never like romances. I especially never like them in YA fantasy. They always feel extraneous and dull and unremarkable. But for Renegades...I put it all on the line.
The romance between Nova and Adrian in Renegade was veryyy slow, and awkward, and cute. It was a side-plot and it didn’t overtake any of the more interesting stuff. I thought it was exactly what a romance in YA fantasy should look like, if there has to be one at all.
But, as mentioned, Marissa Meyer took my risking of it all and PUT IT THROUGH A PAPER SHREDDER. AND THEN PICKED UP THE PIECES AND LAUGHED AND THEN EVERYONE ELSE LAUGHED. (That’s where the being made a fool of comes in.)
The romance in this book was suffocating and overwhelming and insta-love-y and sentimental and cheesy and everywhere and INESCAPABLE.
I hated it so much. And the fact that I had already come to hate both the characters involved just made me hate iteven more.
Forming a hatred so powerful it probably qualifies as one of the C-minus level superpowers in this book.
THE PLOT
The last book set up a very cool and complex moral exploration - essentially what Wildcard wishes and prays it could do - but it got old fast in this book. It was way too hit-you-over-the-head. If it remained a background theme, that would have been great, but instead every conversation and internal monologue had to brush up against it.
And by brush up against it, I mean “hit it with the force of one of those really jump scare-y don’t-drive-distracted commercials where a bunch of friends are in a car texting and then the car gets hit by like the biggest 18-wheeler you have seen in your life.”
Very subtle. Blink and you’ll miss it type of stuff.
Overall, the plotline of this was better than the last one (which had the weirdest full book + one half of another book structure of all time), but it still mostly came into play in the ending.
The ending, however, was fantastic. And I think it also sets up what could be a really interesting plotline for the next book. It has potential.
But we’ve all learned how that goes.
Bottom line: I think I’ll stick with this series, but that also might just be because of how dearly I love to suffer.
------
tbr review
out here getting BLESSED with ARCs of highly anticipated sequels when i haven't even started the series yet!!
& oh boy this is long.
also renegades is long.
...
i have a lot of reading to do.
-----------
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: Life is teeming with disappointments.
The fact that that is closer than anything else to becoming my catchphrase is, in a word, concerning. I was hoping that when I inevitably developed a catchphrase, it’d be something cool, like “cleanup on aisle 7” (for when I commit murders) or “all in a day’s work” (for when I do something very cool that should not be a casual or daily occurrence).
But this works too.
Renegades was a meh read for me, but when I finished, I was like, “Potential!!” There were plotlines and relationships that were set up that I thought, if they played out a certain way, could be really fun. I had hopes for Archenemies.
What I did not remember - which is crazy because I do pride myself on my pessimism - is that if things can go one way and go well, they can also go another way and go very badly.
That is what happened here.
Let’s go one by one.
THE CHARACTERS
In my Renegades review, I basically listed off a bunch of characters and declared that I didn’t like any of them per se, but also didn’t dislike any of them, and if a very specific set of events occurred in Archenemies I could, perhaps, come away with an appreciation for one or two.
Guess what didn’t happen.
(The opposite happened.)
The characters in this book were B A D. That’s right! No abstractions. They were straight up unpleasant, and/or non-present. Here was my ranking of ability-to-potentially-like-any-given-character, from “one cool fight scene and some banter” away to “this character would have to spend 500 pages being unadulteratedly amusing for me to even give half a sh*t, but theoretically anything’s possible.”
- Nova
- Oscar
- Ruby
- Honey
- Adrian
This is some high potential for me!! I almost never like characters. I’m picky. I have high standards. But I waswilling to believe.
For you to fully understand the sheer extent to which my ability to hope was made a mockery, I need to tell you three simultaneous things that happened in this book.
1. All characters except Nova (who I was closest to liking) and Adrian (least close) were basically dropped. We rarely heard from anyone except those two.
2. Nova became insufferable.
3. Adrian grew worse than I ever could have imagined.
GUYS. IT WAS AWFUL. Honey and Ruby and Oscar, the only characters who were ever really even anywhere close to approaching funny? GONEZO. Sayonara!
So now we are in the suffocating embrace of literally only Nova and Adrian (which is terrible for an additional reason that we will get to). Which would maybe be okay, if they were better than in Renegades, or even if they were exactly the same. I’m not asking for much.
BUT APPARENTLY NOT MUCH IS TOO MUCH TO ASK FOR.
Nova spends this entire book being overwhelmingly, unrelentingly selfish. She put the lives of children and innocents on the line, she manipulated perfectly nice people, she lied and stole and deceived, all to achieve her ends. And she was really annoying about it, too, which was the worst bit of all.
Adrian was just Boring McBoringson. All he cared about was his dumb alter ego and his boring parents and guess what? I do not care about either of those things.
It’s such a long character development arc, from all-evil/all-good to complex, and the second book really gets the short end of the stick for that. Basically both Adrian and Nova spent the whole time in one (1) repetitive thought process, which wasn’t even interesting in the first place.
Except for one other thought process.
THE ROMANCE
Picture me dramatically collapsing to my knees, shaking my fists beseechingly at the sky, screaming “NOOOOO!”
For, my friends, I have been made a fool of.
I never like romances. I especially never like them in YA fantasy. They always feel extraneous and dull and unremarkable. But for Renegades...I put it all on the line.
The romance between Nova and Adrian in Renegade was veryyy slow, and awkward, and cute. It was a side-plot and it didn’t overtake any of the more interesting stuff. I thought it was exactly what a romance in YA fantasy should look like, if there has to be one at all.
But, as mentioned, Marissa Meyer took my risking of it all and PUT IT THROUGH A PAPER SHREDDER. AND THEN PICKED UP THE PIECES AND LAUGHED AND THEN EVERYONE ELSE LAUGHED. (That’s where the being made a fool of comes in.)
The romance in this book was suffocating and overwhelming and insta-love-y and sentimental and cheesy and everywhere and INESCAPABLE.
I hated it so much. And the fact that I had already come to hate both the characters involved just made me hate iteven more.
Forming a hatred so powerful it probably qualifies as one of the C-minus level superpowers in this book.
THE PLOT
The last book set up a very cool and complex moral exploration - essentially what Wildcard wishes and prays it could do - but it got old fast in this book. It was way too hit-you-over-the-head. If it remained a background theme, that would have been great, but instead every conversation and internal monologue had to brush up against it.
And by brush up against it, I mean “hit it with the force of one of those really jump scare-y don’t-drive-distracted commercials where a bunch of friends are in a car texting and then the car gets hit by like the biggest 18-wheeler you have seen in your life.”
Very subtle. Blink and you’ll miss it type of stuff.
Overall, the plotline of this was better than the last one (which had the weirdest full book + one half of another book structure of all time), but it still mostly came into play in the ending.
The ending, however, was fantastic. And I think it also sets up what could be a really interesting plotline for the next book. It has potential.
But we’ve all learned how that goes.
Bottom line: I think I’ll stick with this series, but that also might just be because of how dearly I love to suffer.
------
tbr review
out here getting BLESSED with ARCs of highly anticipated sequels when i haven't even started the series yet!!
& oh boy this is long.
also renegades is long.
...
i have a lot of reading to do.
November 9, 2018
this book is almost 600 pages and I read it in a day so if that tells you anything
December 7, 2018
i feel like i could copy and paste my review for‘renegades’and everything would apply to this sequel. we stan a consistent series! lol.
again, this series is the only story i have read where the plot centres around crime fighting superheroes. like actual heroes vs. villains. and i forget how cheesy it can be at times, especially during the action sequences. literally all that is missing is a POW or BAM in little balloon bubbles down the margins. but once you get past that, the story is actually quite decent. slow, but decent.
i will admit, i think series would have benefited from being a duology. it often feels like theres not enough content to stretch across three books. and because of that, there is a lot of filler and slow moments to trudge through. but, similar to‘renegades,’everything picks up towards the end. and when it picks up, i mean like 100mph fast. like, holy cow. the lines have become so blurred, its not even funny.
and once more, the book ends on a cliff hanger. the cliff hanger from the first book is not really a focal point in the sequel, which i thought it would be. so it will be interesting to see how this one is addressed in the final book!
↠3.5 stars
again, this series is the only story i have read where the plot centres around crime fighting superheroes. like actual heroes vs. villains. and i forget how cheesy it can be at times, especially during the action sequences. literally all that is missing is a POW or BAM in little balloon bubbles down the margins. but once you get past that, the story is actually quite decent. slow, but decent.
i will admit, i think series would have benefited from being a duology. it often feels like theres not enough content to stretch across three books. and because of that, there is a lot of filler and slow moments to trudge through. but, similar to‘renegades,’everything picks up towards the end. and when it picks up, i mean like 100mph fast. like, holy cow. the lines have become so blurred, its not even funny.
and once more, the book ends on a cliff hanger. the cliff hanger from the first book is not really a focal point in the sequel, which i thought it would be. so it will be interesting to see how this one is addressed in the final book!
↠3.5 stars
September 5, 2019
UPDATE: $2.99 Kindle US 9/5/19
I didn't like it as much as the first book but it was still up there.
Cover is good. Narrators were good. I think when the next one comes out, I need to read them back to back and see how it goes 🤔😉
Happy Reading!
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
I didn't like it as much as the first book but it was still up there.
Cover is good. Narrators were good. I think when the next one comes out, I need to read them back to back and see how it goes 🤔😉
Happy Reading!
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
February 21, 2019
I LOVED this but I’m also so ANGRYYYYY HOW COULD IT END THAT WAY I DIDNT GET ANYTHING I WANTED WHERE IS BOOK THREE AHHHH
November 19, 2019
This book was so long!!!!! And absolutely no reason!
Don't get me wrong, I was entertained. At times I didn't even notice the time passing. Other times it felt like it was never going to end!
I keep wanting to love this series. I keep wanting to love these characters the same way I loved the characters of Meyer's Lunar Chronicles. I tried, guys, I really did. And I just couldn't.
My first issue was the charcters.
Aside from Adrian and Nova, none of these characters mattered. They were two dimensional and honestly, pretty interchangeable. The story would have gone the same without them. If anything, it might have made the book shorter which I honestly wouldn't have minded.
And even Adrian and Nova were pretty bland. Adrian was my favorite in this book, which isn't really saying much, all things considered. And I have to admit, I only really liked him because his powers were pretty cool and he could easily be the worlds greatest superhero... or villain if he wanted.
Nova, on the other hand, was kind of annoying. Her hate towards the Renegades always seemed like a weak plot point. Yes, she should be wary about all the laws the Renegades make, but having this personal vendetta because they didn't save her all those years ago just seems childish. They were probably busy doing other hero stuff. They aren't omniscient, it's not like they knew she was in trouble!
Then there was the plot... or lack thereof.
You'd think that a book that was almost 600 pages would have a plot, right? Well, no, you'd be terribly wrong.
It's supposed to be a revenge plot with villains and heroes. It's supposed to be a battle of superpowers and skill. We barely get to actually see any of that though.
Nova spends the entire time going through a repetitive mantra of how the Renegades are horrible and should be removed from power, and then going on in a ramble about how maybe, just maybe the Renegades weren't all bad.
Also, the dialogue is pure cheese. It was funny and cringy all at once. I don't know if I hated it or if I secretly loved it. I think I secretly loved it, not gonna lie.
All of that said, I was pretty entertained. Also, I now have several theories of where this story is going to go and I'm looking forward to reading the third book and see where it goes.
So, do I recommend it? Maybe?
I have no idea. Read at your own risk.
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Don't get me wrong, I was entertained. At times I didn't even notice the time passing. Other times it felt like it was never going to end!
I keep wanting to love this series. I keep wanting to love these characters the same way I loved the characters of Meyer's Lunar Chronicles. I tried, guys, I really did. And I just couldn't.
My first issue was the charcters.
Aside from Adrian and Nova, none of these characters mattered. They were two dimensional and honestly, pretty interchangeable. The story would have gone the same without them. If anything, it might have made the book shorter which I honestly wouldn't have minded.
And even Adrian and Nova were pretty bland. Adrian was my favorite in this book, which isn't really saying much, all things considered. And I have to admit, I only really liked him because his powers were pretty cool and he could easily be the worlds greatest superhero... or villain if he wanted.
Nova, on the other hand, was kind of annoying. Her hate towards the Renegades always seemed like a weak plot point. Yes, she should be wary about all the laws the Renegades make, but having this personal vendetta because they didn't save her all those years ago just seems childish. They were probably busy doing other hero stuff. They aren't omniscient, it's not like they knew she was in trouble!
Then there was the plot... or lack thereof.
You'd think that a book that was almost 600 pages would have a plot, right? Well, no, you'd be terribly wrong.
It's supposed to be a revenge plot with villains and heroes. It's supposed to be a battle of superpowers and skill. We barely get to actually see any of that though.
Nova spends the entire time going through a repetitive mantra of how the Renegades are horrible and should be removed from power, and then going on in a ramble about how maybe, just maybe the Renegades weren't all bad.
Also, the dialogue is pure cheese. It was funny and cringy all at once. I don't know if I hated it or if I secretly loved it. I think I secretly loved it, not gonna lie.
All of that said, I was pretty entertained. Also, I now have several theories of where this story is going to go and I'm looking forward to reading the third book and see where it goes.
So, do I recommend it? Maybe?
I have no idea. Read at your own risk.
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January 4, 2021
Continuing buddy read with my dearMaica!
4.5 stars
ANOTHER CLIFFHANGER?! AGH! OMG, SO MUCH WENT DOWN!!!
ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! THIS IS RIDICULOUS!Two books in and everyone still doesn’t know the identities of everyone’s alter egos!!! UGH
It’s too late. I’m addicted to this series lol
Can it be November already?!
4.5 stars
ANOTHER CLIFFHANGER?! AGH! OMG, SO MUCH WENT DOWN!!!
ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! THIS IS RIDICULOUS!Two books in and everyone still doesn’t know the identities of everyone’s alter egos!!! UGH
It’s too late. I’m addicted to this series lol
Can it be November already?!
November 21, 2018
This review and other non-spoilery reviews can be found@The Book Prescription
“I just want to remind you that there are no lone wolves in the Renegades. There is no I in hero.”
🌟 I insist on calling Marissa Meyer the queen of re-tellings. TLC is one of my favorite series that kept improving somehow till the last book. I expected Marissa to be awesome when she writes an original series, except that it was not original!
🌟Jump back a few years ago to when the X-Men movies were released, particularly the 3rd movie. Which I watched a million times on a DVD player back in the day where there were not many options to choose from. The point is that this book felt like a YA retelling of that movie rather than being an original.
🌟 I don’t have any problems with Marissa’s writing style and I probably shouldn’t after 8 books. Although some of the conversations felt comical more than realistic but that didn’t bother me.
🌟 The other problem I had was the slow pacing, for the first 50-60% of the book, pretty much nothing important happened and it was repetitive. The book is a large one that could have been cut to half and still delivered the same story.
🌟 I like the characters. And though I was rooting for The Anarchists rather than The Renegades, this book focused on the later group which made me feel something was missing.🌟 As I was saying above the plot was easy to predict. Specially if you are into superheroes and super powers. I can’t stop thinking of some characters as characters in the X-Men movie which is sad.
🌟 Summary: I originally read this because it was supposed to be a duology and it is now a trilogy. Something that made me skeptical and it looks my fears were in the right place. It should have been faster, shorter and more original. I am still invested enough to read the last book and I hope it doesn’t become longer than that. I ended up being generous and gave it 3 out of 5 stars.
🌟 Prescription: If you like superheroes but hasn’t watched/ read books like that then this may be for you.
“I just want to remind you that there are no lone wolves in the Renegades. There is no I in hero.”
🌟 I insist on calling Marissa Meyer the queen of re-tellings. TLC is one of my favorite series that kept improving somehow till the last book. I expected Marissa to be awesome when she writes an original series, except that it was not original!
🌟Jump back a few years ago to when the X-Men movies were released, particularly the 3rd movie. Which I watched a million times on a DVD player back in the day where there were not many options to choose from. The point is that this book felt like a YA retelling of that movie rather than being an original.
🌟 I don’t have any problems with Marissa’s writing style and I probably shouldn’t after 8 books. Although some of the conversations felt comical more than realistic but that didn’t bother me.
🌟 The other problem I had was the slow pacing, for the first 50-60% of the book, pretty much nothing important happened and it was repetitive. The book is a large one that could have been cut to half and still delivered the same story.
🌟 I like the characters. And though I was rooting for The Anarchists rather than The Renegades, this book focused on the later group which made me feel something was missing.🌟 As I was saying above the plot was easy to predict. Specially if you are into superheroes and super powers. I can’t stop thinking of some characters as characters in the X-Men movie which is sad.
🌟 Summary: I originally read this because it was supposed to be a duology and it is now a trilogy. Something that made me skeptical and it looks my fears were in the right place. It should have been faster, shorter and more original. I am still invested enough to read the last book and I hope it doesn’t become longer than that. I ended up being generous and gave it 3 out of 5 stars.
🌟 Prescription: If you like superheroes but hasn’t watched/ read books like that then this may be for you.
January 11, 2019
I am so mad at myself for not reading this before but now I have and AHHHHHHH IT'S SO GOOD!!
(It's probably a little bit trashy, but I am 10000% invested in the series and I love it so much!)
Even the beginning, which had a lot less action, I still don't think it was boring. It was a little bit slow, but I still thought it was a good pace for the story.
And that ending!! It was so action packed and so intense!!
But I might just die of impatience because I neeeeeeeeed the third book NOW PLEAAAASSSEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!
(It's probably a little bit trashy, but I am 10000% invested in the series and I love it so much!)
Even the beginning, which had a lot less action, I still don't think it was boring. It was a little bit slow, but I still thought it was a good pace for the story.
And that ending!! It was so action packed and so intense!!
But I might just die of impatience because I neeeeeeeeed the third book NOW PLEAAAASSSEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!
November 27, 2018
I liked this one but sadly not as much as Renegades...
Am I the only one?
Am I the only one?
December 29, 2018
2.5
I still think Meyer is one of the best fantasy YA author out there, and I still think she doesn't even have to try to be able to stand out. Butthis book just didn't work.Personally, I believe that the reason (at least in my case) is one ofdisappointed expectations:like many other fans, I had got used to the idea that the Renegades series was going to be a duology, and only recently did I find out that this was not the case any longer. Not only that, butArchenemies,the second book I, and we all, longed for for so long, on top ofnotbeing the finale we wanted,also feels rather static:it is probably unfair to say that this book is devoid of any major turning point in the wider picture of the series's plot; one or two important things do happen, after all, but compared to the length of the novel itself, it is not sufficient at all. It fell dramatically flat. It's not that it wasbad;but itwasdisastrously unfulfilling.
Nevertheless, I would like to point out that the series still posesa range of moral issueswhich I believewill prove very interesting for the younger audiencethat it targets. I say specifically 'younger audience' because, while the book's themes may certainly interest a wider public, the treatment of said themes is still not complex enough as to make them stimulating for somewhat more mature readers. So if you are looking for a book to give to your kids, chooseRenegades—or Marissa Meyer in general. I promise they'll thank you.
I still think Meyer is one of the best fantasy YA author out there, and I still think she doesn't even have to try to be able to stand out. Butthis book just didn't work.Personally, I believe that the reason (at least in my case) is one ofdisappointed expectations:like many other fans, I had got used to the idea that the Renegades series was going to be a duology, and only recently did I find out that this was not the case any longer. Not only that, butArchenemies,the second book I, and we all, longed for for so long, on top ofnotbeing the finale we wanted,also feels rather static:it is probably unfair to say that this book is devoid of any major turning point in the wider picture of the series's plot; one or two important things do happen, after all, but compared to the length of the novel itself, it is not sufficient at all. It fell dramatically flat. It's not that it wasbad;but itwasdisastrously unfulfilling.
Nevertheless, I would like to point out that the series still posesa range of moral issueswhich I believewill prove very interesting for the younger audiencethat it targets. I say specifically 'younger audience' because, while the book's themes may certainly interest a wider public, the treatment of said themes is still not complex enough as to make them stimulating for somewhat more mature readers. So if you are looking for a book to give to your kids, chooseRenegades—or Marissa Meyer in general. I promise they'll thank you.
December 26, 2018
i need a moment of silence for the fact that this book ended second book syndrome. marissa meyer pulled through, i knew my queen could do it
SERIOUSLY though, wow this book fixed everything the first book lacked. the action was so well paced and the scenes were so vivid. ifeltconnected to the characters this time unlike last time. i ship ruby and oscar so much wow i love them
nova's personality and moral dilemma were so well developed and expressed, you could FEEL the predicament she faced. i EVEN was shipping nova and adrian, who am i??
MAX, MY SON WAS A STAR. this kid is so precious, i need to find out what happens to him, my happiness depends on it
jfldakjfla i JUST REALLY LIKED THIS BOOK
it wasn't //perfect// for sure, it had its flaws, but it was such an improvement from the first book and i'm so excited to see how this series is going to end bc as of now, it's so messy and unpredictable
4.5 stars
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
buddy readwith the blogging queen,kat
honestly i'm expecting a top quality sequel from marissa meyer, book 1 was okay, but book 2 better be epic 🙏
SERIOUSLY though, wow this book fixed everything the first book lacked. the action was so well paced and the scenes were so vivid. ifeltconnected to the characters this time unlike last time. i ship ruby and oscar so much wow i love them
nova's personality and moral dilemma were so well developed and expressed, you could FEEL the predicament she faced. i EVEN was shipping nova and adrian, who am i??
MAX, MY SON WAS A STAR. this kid is so precious, i need to find out what happens to him, my happiness depends on it
jfldakjfla i JUST REALLY LIKED THIS BOOK
it wasn't //perfect// for sure, it had its flaws, but it was such an improvement from the first book and i'm so excited to see how this series is going to end bc as of now, it's so messy and unpredictable
4.5 stars
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
buddy readwith the blogging queen,kat
honestly i'm expecting a top quality sequel from marissa meyer, book 1 was okay, but book 2 better be epic 🙏
January 1, 2019
This is such a fun series! I love it. To be honest I flew through this book so fast that I won't have a lot to say about it because it's a blur. But I LOVED the tension of will-they-or-won't-they find out about the secret identities. There was good romantic chemistry. I love this friend group. I love how the book explores heroes who have evil motives and villains that have good ones. My feels are all over the place!
Audiobook review:Narrated by Rebecca Soler and Dan Bittner. Soler is my fave so it's always a joy to listen to anything she does. Both narrators do great, so I'd recommend this format.
Audiobook review:Narrated by Rebecca Soler and Dan Bittner. Soler is my fave so it's always a joy to listen to anything she does. Both narrators do great, so I'd recommend this format.
November 25, 2018
I don’t feel like writing a long review honestly, but just know that this book has destroyed me and I’m not okay.
Take me out of the oven and stick a fork in me becauseI. Am. Done.
Thank you, Marissa Meyer, for signing my death certificate. Maybe I’ll come back as Phobia and be your worst fear. Though, even that wouldn’t be enough in my eyes after that heart breaking ending you delivered to us.
Do I seriously have to wait a year for the third and final book? I think I just died a little more with that thought.
I’m ending this without my heart and soul in tact. From now on, I’m going to be known as soulless Cassie. That’s it, that’s all I got for you. Goodbye.
Take me out of the oven and stick a fork in me becauseI. Am. Done.
Thank you, Marissa Meyer, for signing my death certificate. Maybe I’ll come back as Phobia and be your worst fear. Though, even that wouldn’t be enough in my eyes after that heart breaking ending you delivered to us.
Do I seriously have to wait a year for the third and final book? I think I just died a little more with that thought.
I’m ending this without my heart and soul in tact. From now on, I’m going to be known as soulless Cassie. That’s it, that’s all I got for you. Goodbye.
October 26, 2021
~ 2 stars ~
This was certainly worst than the first book, but once again, I am extremely indifferent to anything pertaining to this book. I couldn't care less about this series, and because of that, I also can't really hate it.
I'm still super frustrated with the plot conveniences, and the fact that two full books, it was still dragging and adding to the plot. So frustrated to the point that I felt like there was no way it could wrap up the story in a satisfactory way (spoiler alert: I was right).
This series as a whole is just severely mediocare and predictable. It isn't anything extraordinary or new. The characters don't stick out to me. I've read all of Marissa Meyer's books excluding the graphic novels and her most recent release, and she definitely missed the mark with this series. I had a great time withThe Lunar ChroniclesandHeartlesswas enjoyable for the most part, butRenegadeswas simply just a disappointment.
This was certainly worst than the first book, but once again, I am extremely indifferent to anything pertaining to this book. I couldn't care less about this series, and because of that, I also can't really hate it.
I'm still super frustrated with the plot conveniences, and the fact that two full books, it was still dragging and adding to the plot. So frustrated to the point that I felt like there was no way it could wrap up the story in a satisfactory way (spoiler alert: I was right).
This series as a whole is just severely mediocare and predictable. It isn't anything extraordinary or new. The characters don't stick out to me. I've read all of Marissa Meyer's books excluding the graphic novels and her most recent release, and she definitely missed the mark with this series. I had a great time withThe Lunar ChroniclesandHeartlesswas enjoyable for the most part, butRenegadeswas simply just a disappointment.
January 13, 2020
I don't love this book as much as the first one. I got bored with Nova's third job at Renegades HQ. That portion is excruciatingly lengthy to get through. Callum tried hard to keep the artifacts upbeat but it's like browsing through a museum. I enjoyed the start of the book before Nova started her third job. I enjoyed the ending as well. The villains' win at their mission and lost of their *** is a surprise one for me. Normally I don't like Villains but I'm liking Nightmare and the banters among her group.
This book is told in the third person point of view following Adrian, Renegade team leader and son of Renegade original founders, as he and his teammates attempted to apprehend a band of thieves leaving the hospital with their stolen bags of pills. Adrian is still in search of his mother's killer and he doesn't believe Nightmare is dead. The alternating view is Nova, a villain called Nightmare is spying on the Renegades by becoming a Renegade herself, a position she won through trial competition. This book continues from book one where the recent villain, the Detonator harm a lot of innocent civilians and the Renegades are introducing a weapon that will take away the supper powers of prodigy lawbreakers. From the surprise ending of book 1, Nova's new mission is more important now than ever and she can't fail.
Archenemies is filled with thoughts of wanting the world rid of superheroes. Readers get to follow the lives of the heroes and villains in normal day to day life. It seems not much difference because there are bullies among the heroes and they act like any villains. The romance escalated another step in this sequel and Adrian is so cute when he's nervous. Some superpowers are pretty cool like Monarch and Adrian's drawing. I like Ruby and Oscar's attempts at love or Ruby's attempts at playing hard to get. Out of the first two books, I enjoyed the first one more. I can't wait to read Supernova, the finale to the series.
xoxo,
Jasmine atwww.howusefulitis.wordpress.comfor more details
This book is told in the third person point of view following Adrian, Renegade team leader and son of Renegade original founders, as he and his teammates attempted to apprehend a band of thieves leaving the hospital with their stolen bags of pills. Adrian is still in search of his mother's killer and he doesn't believe Nightmare is dead. The alternating view is Nova, a villain called Nightmare is spying on the Renegades by becoming a Renegade herself, a position she won through trial competition. This book continues from book one where the recent villain, the Detonator harm a lot of innocent civilians and the Renegades are introducing a weapon that will take away the supper powers of prodigy lawbreakers. From the surprise ending of book 1, Nova's new mission is more important now than ever and she can't fail.
Archenemies is filled with thoughts of wanting the world rid of superheroes. Readers get to follow the lives of the heroes and villains in normal day to day life. It seems not much difference because there are bullies among the heroes and they act like any villains. The romance escalated another step in this sequel and Adrian is so cute when he's nervous. Some superpowers are pretty cool like Monarch and Adrian's drawing. I like Ruby and Oscar's attempts at love or Ruby's attempts at playing hard to get. Out of the first two books, I enjoyed the first one more. I can't wait to read Supernova, the finale to the series.
xoxo,
Jasmine atwww.howusefulitis.wordpress.comfor more details
May 25, 2023
4.5⭐️
●*~"There is no I in hero."~*●
I've missed the feeling that Marissa Meyer always gives me. The feeling of being so emotionally attached to her characters that you scream and cry and giggle and gasp and grow right alongside them as the story progresses. The feeling that you're going to cry when it ends, no matter what, because the characters have become your best friends and you never want to let them go. The feeling of not evenknowinghow much you love them until when she tortures them in the worst way possible you throw your book across the room and wail in agony.
This kind of feeling is what I look for in every book, whether I realize it or not, yet I don't always find it. But with Marissa, I know I will.
In Renegades, she introduced and developed these amazing characters. But in this book, she takes advantage of sneakily emotionally attaching you to them and absolutely destroys your heart with the angst and pain and loneliness and complications that they go through.
And because of the pain and suffering, I loved this book even better than the first 🥺🥺
Yes, I need therapy 😃
My favorite things about this book: a short list:
-Nova
-Adrian
-Nova + Adrian
-Oscar
-Ruby
-Oscar + Ruby
-Max
-Max
-Max + Max bc Max is all you need
No seriously though, the writing, plot, twists, and all that jazz are impeccable. But the characters introduced here are all the sweetest lil cinnamon rolls you ever did see. I wanna wrap them all up in a blanket and protect them from the world and from Marissa Meyer. Their character and romance development fit seamlessly with the plot and overall, all the angst and feelings in this book made it so addictive that I devoured it in only a couple several-hour sittings, and when I finished I didn't know what to do with my life. That's a prime example of a good book!
This series has just been such a rollercoaster and I love it so much. Highly recommended <3
●*~"We are so much stronger and better when we put our energy into creating things, not destroying them."~*●
●*~ pre-review ~*●
I have something to say, and it’s very important so listen up.
aaaaaaaaaaAAAAAAHHHHHhHhHhHHHHHHHHH
RTC when I’m not drowning in emotions 😃
●*~ tbr review ~*●
MOM, WE'RE GOING TO THE LIBRARY AGAIN!
●*~"There is no I in hero."~*●
I've missed the feeling that Marissa Meyer always gives me. The feeling of being so emotionally attached to her characters that you scream and cry and giggle and gasp and grow right alongside them as the story progresses. The feeling that you're going to cry when it ends, no matter what, because the characters have become your best friends and you never want to let them go. The feeling of not evenknowinghow much you love them until when she tortures them in the worst way possible you throw your book across the room and wail in agony.
This kind of feeling is what I look for in every book, whether I realize it or not, yet I don't always find it. But with Marissa, I know I will.
In Renegades, she introduced and developed these amazing characters. But in this book, she takes advantage of sneakily emotionally attaching you to them and absolutely destroys your heart with the angst and pain and loneliness and complications that they go through.
And because of the pain and suffering, I loved this book even better than the first 🥺🥺
Yes, I need therapy 😃
My favorite things about this book: a short list:
-Nova
-Adrian
-Nova + Adrian
-Oscar
-Ruby
-Oscar + Ruby
-Max
-Max
-Max + Max bc Max is all you need
No seriously though, the writing, plot, twists, and all that jazz are impeccable. But the characters introduced here are all the sweetest lil cinnamon rolls you ever did see. I wanna wrap them all up in a blanket and protect them from the world and from Marissa Meyer. Their character and romance development fit seamlessly with the plot and overall, all the angst and feelings in this book made it so addictive that I devoured it in only a couple several-hour sittings, and when I finished I didn't know what to do with my life. That's a prime example of a good book!
This series has just been such a rollercoaster and I love it so much. Highly recommended <3
●*~"We are so much stronger and better when we put our energy into creating things, not destroying them."~*●
●*~ pre-review ~*●
I have something to say, and it’s very important so listen up.
aaaaaaaaaaAAAAAAHHHHHhHhHhHHHHHHHHH
RTC when I’m not drowning in emotions 😃
●*~ tbr review ~*●
MOM, WE'RE GOING TO THE LIBRARY AGAIN!
April 22, 2019
“There were still consequences. There were always consequences, no matter which side she was on.”
♡I’m utterly torn.I love the sweet characters and prodigy society depicted in general. But, I can’t overlook the glaringsimilarities between this novel and the third installment in the X-men franchise,The Last Stand.One of the central plot points involves a drug that can neutralize the abilities of any prodigy. Nova is concerned that this power will be abused in the hands of egotistical Renegades, and thereby attempts to find a way to prevent its usage. Baring such a remarkable resemblance to the plot in the X-men movie, truly dampened my overall enjoyment.
♡The pacing is painfully slow during the first half of the novel.I honestly don’t mind it much when a story is slow-paced. I often welcome it! After all,The Lord of the Ringsis one of my favorite novels ever written, and it’s a whopping 1,100 pages. There does however, need to be enough developments presented to hold my interest. I found this unfortunately, was lacking in Archenemies. Every turn of event felt either drawn out, repetitive, or unnecessary. Perhaps this is a side effect from a duology becoming a trilogy, but I would’ve greatly preferred it if the story was several hundred pages shorter.
♡The romance in all its slow-burning beauty… withered and died?How Nova and Adrien’s relationship develops in this book is disappointing to say the least. Their interactions were cute at times, but for the most part, too time-consuming and unnecessarily convoluted. It could’ve been simple and straightforward, but Nova incessantly stresses over her feelings for him, weaving together a (550 page-long) web of teenage angst and confusion. She has several agendas occurring at once that encourage this relationship to reach new depths, yet her guilt-laden conscience constantly causes her to hesitate. It’s highly frustrating and grows wearisome after a while.
♡Bring on the moral dilemmas!I mentioned this in my review forRenegadesas well, but the morally grey areas depicted in this society are wonderful! Mostly evident through Nova’s character, the fine line between what makes someone a hero or villain is fascinating. Not unlike most situations in our lives, it’s challenging to devise a solution that will satisfy everyone. The numerous perspectives on the humane use of Agent N, Renegade laws, treatment of Anarchists, etc. is such a treat to read about!
♡Out with a bang!Despite its lethargic start, the last 100 pages of the novel is spectacular! It’s fast paced and riveting, with just enough emotional anxiety and agony to keep you on your toes. As a matter of fact, the conclusion felt so cohesive and entertaining that I find it startling to believe that it’s part of the same novel. The action sequences felt comical (as expected of a superhero novel) throughout most of the story but dives down a darker path in the finale. Foreshadowing a grittier sequel, perhaps?
♡Archenemies certainly has a few faults, but it delivers where it matters.The story is entertaining, the side characters are endearing when they make appearances, and the socio-political factors discussed throughout are highly intriguing! I’ll be holding onto the hope that the last book,Supernova,seals the deal! Wishing for better pacing, more side character love (where have my babies flown off to? I need them!), and less romantic angst! Marissa Meyer, I believe in you!
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
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January 16, 2020
4.5 en realidad
February 10, 2019
I am enjoying this series a lot so far. The writing is reminding me a lot of The Lunar Chronicles, which I enjoyed quite a lot, so I am quite pleased. Meyers characters are always interesting and fun to get to know. Also I love how unique this series continues to be with a different take on the superhero genre.
My only complaint about this book is there was quite a large chunk in the middle where things got a bit slow and stagnant. Meyer picked one major plot point and then just ran it into the ground. I am attempting to avoid spoilers so I can't get into exactly what it was too much, but I will say it involved personal relationships and long conversations and after a while I was ready to move on. In a small dose I was fine with it, but it just got to be too much for me.
My favorite part of this series is how it looks into the good that is inherent in villany and the bad that is inherent in heroics. It isn't just the good guys are good and the bad guys are bad and that is kind of awesome. I look forward to finding out where this goes with the next book as it is not quite clear yet who I will end up cheering for.
If you like superheroes and don't mind a little YA romance mixed in, give this a shot. If you liked Cinder, I think you will enjoy this because it is written in the same vein.
My only complaint about this book is there was quite a large chunk in the middle where things got a bit slow and stagnant. Meyer picked one major plot point and then just ran it into the ground. I am attempting to avoid spoilers so I can't get into exactly what it was too much, but I will say it involved personal relationships and long conversations and after a while I was ready to move on. In a small dose I was fine with it, but it just got to be too much for me.
My favorite part of this series is how it looks into the good that is inherent in villany and the bad that is inherent in heroics. It isn't just the good guys are good and the bad guys are bad and that is kind of awesome. I look forward to finding out where this goes with the next book as it is not quite clear yet who I will end up cheering for.
If you like superheroes and don't mind a little YA romance mixed in, give this a shot. If you liked Cinder, I think you will enjoy this because it is written in the same vein.
November 27, 2018
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow that was an intense last few chapters. This was a tremendous sequel and I cannot wait for the next book! I need it now because I have to see how this Sentinel and Nightmare collision course ends. The characters we learned about in book one take on way more feats and develop in even more detail with a plot that is fast-paced and just overall awesome! I seriously enjoyed this sequel more than I expected, which should not have been the case since the first hit me the same way.
My quick and simple overall: I hate to say this because I loved the Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer, but I actually like this series even better! I highly recommend this series for fantasy and sci-fi fans!
Wow that was an intense last few chapters. This was a tremendous sequel and I cannot wait for the next book! I need it now because I have to see how this Sentinel and Nightmare collision course ends. The characters we learned about in book one take on way more feats and develop in even more detail with a plot that is fast-paced and just overall awesome! I seriously enjoyed this sequel more than I expected, which should not have been the case since the first hit me the same way.
My quick and simple overall: I hate to say this because I loved the Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer, but I actually like this series even better! I highly recommend this series for fantasy and sci-fi fans!
April 4, 2024
“i’m so sorry you had to be the enemy”
*screams*
*screams*
June 18, 2019
How refreshing it is to read about a morally grey female villain. Take that, society. Girls can be cunning badasses too.
November 23, 2018
HOLY SHIT
i have been so busy with work so it has literally taken me forever to read this but..... HOLY SHIT.
i have been so busy with work so it has literally taken me forever to read this but..... HOLY SHIT.
January 3, 2019
please note that the use of the terms “Nova’s mission” and reference to Nova being a “spy” are used VERY loosely in this review.
Things I liked:
◘ So like with renegades,the endingwas REALLY GOOD. I genuinely enjoyed it. The Sentinel’s discovery and the party and the chaos at the very very end. WASGOOD.
◘ And at the risk of repeating my words in my Renegades review, Book 3 has potential and some really interesting things were set up at the end.
◘ The very morally grey Renegades-Anarchists-prodigy situation is goodbut that was kinda ruined by Agent N. cough. I’ll elaborate later in the review.
◘ I LIKED DANNA. A LOT. Why? Because she’s nice, kind, friendly, a good prodigy, etc, etc. But she’s alsonot blind to what’s right in front of her.She’s the only one with an ounce of sense.too bad she wasn’t in the book much. Nor were Ruby or Oscar or Honey.
◘ I'm curious about Phobia's identity and backstory.
Things I disliked:
◘ So in a nutshell, I was so bored and couldn’t take anything seriously.
◘ “But Zara,” you say, “there was more action throughout the book when compared with Renegades. Why ever were you bored?” Well, I’ll tell you why. THE ROMANCE WAS STIFLING EVERYTHING.
◘ So was Nova. I liked her in book 1. Genuinely. In THIS BOOK, oh boy did she make my blood pressure skyrocket every time she was in any scene. which was for 95% of the book.
◘ In Renegades, the romance was a subplot, slow burn, on the back burner type of thing. I found it sweet and endearing and really didn’t mind it. But in this one, it was front and centre and it just went downhill. In my opinion.
◘ So Nova is flirting with Adrian to use it to her own benefit because she’s…*whispers so that the renegades don’t hear* she’s aspy.Just kidding, they won’t suspect a thing, you know, because Nova is an angle with whom they’ll trust their lives despite her sketchy behaviour because whatever she says is gospel. A true angel she is.
◘ ANYWAYS, Nova is flirting with Adrian and here’s her thought processes that are repeated every 5 pages (as much as I wish it was, this is not even an exaggeration):
“I must destroy the Renegades who didn’t come when I needed them the most. But they aren’t ALL bad. What do I do?? I must flirt with Adrian to aid me in destroying the Renegades. But why am I feeling these feelings for him?? This is only for the purpose of the mission. Is what we have not real? Why isn’t Adrian interested in me anymore when I made it clear that I wasn’t interested in the previous book?? This hurts. bUt what we have isn’t real,and I must destroy the Renegades.etc, etc. In. every. scene. Need I say more?
◘ As for why I could not take this book seriously, its because NOBODY (excluding the aforementioned Danna) saw past Nova’s “ruse”. They ignored the most obvious signs. Nova might as well have been standing with a bright neon yellow sign that said “I WORK WITH THE ANARCHISTS” in bold, all caps lettering, but they STILL ate up every lie she spoon-fed them. It was wholly, utterly ridiculous.
◘ This also meant that clever deceit, subtle strategising and planning, true betrayal and moral conflict — elements that would’ve been true strengths and assets — felt so surface-level and artificial. It doesn’t feel to me like there were stakes. IM NOT BUYING IT AND I DONT CARE.
◘ And last but not least, our wonderful Agent N is an element I didn't really like. here's why:
1. Renegades hasAgent X.X-Men: The Last Standhas theMutant Cure.
2. Leech, from X-Menneutralisesthe powers of mutants who are near him, and was confined within Alcatraz. Max from Renegadesabsorbsthe powers of prodigies who are near him and was quarantined within Renegades headquarters.
3. Leech happens to play a pivotal role in creating the Mutant cure. Max also may or may not play a pivotal role in creating Agent X.
I’m just baffled thatnobodyinvolved in the publishing process picked up on these similarities.
A LOT of people actually enjoyed Archenemies more than they enjoyed Renegades, so take this review with a grain of salteven though I was very, very salty.But I'm not going to lie, my inner Slytherin didn’t mind terribly ripping this book to shreds. Yes I'm awful, I know this.
Overall rating:★★☆☆☆
Things I liked:
◘ So like with renegades,the endingwas REALLY GOOD. I genuinely enjoyed it. The Sentinel’s discovery and the party and the chaos at the very very end. WASGOOD.
◘ And at the risk of repeating my words in my Renegades review, Book 3 has potential and some really interesting things were set up at the end.
◘ The very morally grey Renegades-Anarchists-prodigy situation is good
◘ I LIKED DANNA. A LOT. Why? Because she’s nice, kind, friendly, a good prodigy, etc, etc. But she’s alsonot blind to what’s right in front of her.She’s the only one with an ounce of sense.
◘ I'm curious about Phobia's identity and backstory.
Things I disliked:
◘ So in a nutshell, I was so bored and couldn’t take anything seriously.
◘ “But Zara,” you say, “there was more action throughout the book when compared with Renegades. Why ever were you bored?” Well, I’ll tell you why. THE ROMANCE WAS STIFLING EVERYTHING.
◘ So was Nova. I liked her in book 1. Genuinely. In THIS BOOK, oh boy did she make my blood pressure skyrocket every time she was in any scene. which was for 95% of the book.
◘ In Renegades, the romance was a subplot, slow burn, on the back burner type of thing. I found it sweet and endearing and really didn’t mind it. But in this one, it was front and centre and it just went downhill. In my opinion.
◘ So Nova is flirting with Adrian to use it to her own benefit because she’s…*whispers so that the renegades don’t hear* she’s aspy.Just kidding, they won’t suspect a thing, you know, because Nova is an angle with whom they’ll trust their lives despite her sketchy behaviour because whatever she says is gospel. A true angel she is.
◘ ANYWAYS, Nova is flirting with Adrian and here’s her thought processes that are repeated every 5 pages (as much as I wish it was, this is not even an exaggeration):
“I must destroy the Renegades who didn’t come when I needed them the most. But they aren’t ALL bad. What do I do?? I must flirt with Adrian to aid me in destroying the Renegades. But why am I feeling these feelings for him?? This is only for the purpose of the mission. Is what we have not real? Why isn’t Adrian interested in me anymore when I made it clear that I wasn’t interested in the previous book?? This hurts. bUt what we have isn’t real,and I must destroy the Renegades.etc, etc. In. every. scene. Need I say more?
◘ As for why I could not take this book seriously, its because NOBODY (excluding the aforementioned Danna) saw past Nova’s “ruse”. They ignored the most obvious signs. Nova might as well have been standing with a bright neon yellow sign that said “I WORK WITH THE ANARCHISTS” in bold, all caps lettering, but they STILL ate up every lie she spoon-fed them. It was wholly, utterly ridiculous.
◘ This also meant that clever deceit, subtle strategising and planning, true betrayal and moral conflict — elements that would’ve been true strengths and assets — felt so surface-level and artificial. It doesn’t feel to me like there were stakes. IM NOT BUYING IT AND I DONT CARE.
◘ And last but not least, our wonderful Agent N is an element I didn't really like. here's why:
1. Renegades hasAgent X.X-Men: The Last Standhas theMutant Cure.
2. Leech, from X-Menneutralisesthe powers of mutants who are near him, and was confined within Alcatraz. Max from Renegadesabsorbsthe powers of prodigies who are near him and was quarantined within Renegades headquarters.
3. Leech happens to play a pivotal role in creating the Mutant cure. Max also may or may not play a pivotal role in creating Agent X.
I’m just baffled thatnobodyinvolved in the publishing process picked up on these similarities.
A LOT of people actually enjoyed Archenemies more than they enjoyed Renegades, so take this review with a grain of salt
Overall rating:★★☆☆☆
December 23, 2018
It's finally happened. After a whole year of anticipation, I FINALLY read my most anticipated most awaited most I MUST READ THIS AIOSKLJFDAIOFSJ book of 2019 and I have fEELINGS. Note: there will be spoilers for Renegades (the first book in the trilogy) but not Archenemies in this review.
Archenemies picks up a little after the first book left off, after the explosive battle that killed The Detonator and shocking revelation that Ace Anarchy is, in fact, still alive. It's been a year since I read the first one, but I was able to quickly recall what happened within the first couple of chapters and it was so exciting to be able to dive back into this phenomenal world!
Like the first book, this one still centers around the struggle between "good" and "bad," whether there really is a good or bad, if it's so black and white, or if we're all a bit grey. There's the introduction of new "Agent N" that was teased in the last book, and it really added to Nova's struggle, I feel! She also gets to know more of the Renegades, know them better, and has to consider where her true alliances really lie, and I loved seeing that struggle really develop! In addition, we now have scenes with the feared Ace Anarchy, who is still firmly on the sides of the Anarchists, and is still Nova's wonderful uncle, juxtaposed against the Renegades she spends so much time with!
This book did feel a bit slow at times in terms of the action, instead devoting more time to character development, which I both liked and disliked. For a superhero novel, I would have liked a bit more action and things to happen, but at the same time character development is so important!
The character development really gave more time to the budding relationship between Nova and Adrian! These two are so cute, and of course I'm such a sucker for slow burn relationships! There are some sweet awkward scenes too that are fun to read about, just screaming for them to get together already!
Unfortunately, I felt that this sweet character development between Nova and Adrian was at the expense of the other characters. I still love Oscar! He's so funny and also his love for food is basically me in a nutshell get someone who likes you as much as Oscar loves food haha. I would have really liked to see more of the other Anarchists though: Leroy and Honey and Phobia, who seemed to be much more prevalent in the first book than this one.
The one thing that really kind of bugged me about this book was that there were a couple of things that happened in the last book that I was hoping would be explained more here. For example, how is it that Nova survives and kills Ingrid when it seemed so inevitable that Nightmare had died in the first book? Also, why did we pretend that Ace Anarchy was dead for the entire first book, when he seems normal here besides to have a big reveal? I was hoping a few questions would be answered, and they weren't and that sort of makes it feel like a plot hole? But this isn't the last book so I still have hope and if they're answered in the third book all will be forgiven haha.
While I would have enjoyed a bit more action, the action scenes that we did have certainly did not disappoint! The book opens with an awesome sequence against a new villain that I loved, and the conclusion is even more incredible! I was on pins and needles the whole time the ending was happening, and it was everything I could have hoped for and omgomgomg I need the next book so much!!!!
Overall, I didn't enjoy this book quite as much as I was hoping, and not quite as much as I enjoyed Renegades or any of Meyer's other books, but I still really liked it and would definitely recommend you read it! (Although now I'm suffering because I spent the entire year anticipating it and devoured it in one afternoon and now I have to wait another year again...) Now, we only have to wait and see if it's more of a Lunar Chronicles ending or a Heartless one...I'm hoping for something in the middle haha!
4 stars
---
Since this book comes out in less than two weeks and will inevitably be reviewed by lots of amazing popular reviewers (whose reviews I can't wait to read!) and I will be pushed down, I'd like to take a moment to appreciate how I was once the 8th most liked review lolll.
also ALSDKFJAOIESKLJF OAWIEKJFSD OWJIOELKDSJF OWIJSDKF IT COMES OUT IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS
-----
5/18/18
THE COVER IS ART
AND ITS A TRILOGY OMGOMGOMGOMG
Archenemies picks up a little after the first book left off, after the explosive battle that killed The Detonator and shocking revelation that Ace Anarchy is, in fact, still alive. It's been a year since I read the first one, but I was able to quickly recall what happened within the first couple of chapters and it was so exciting to be able to dive back into this phenomenal world!
Like the first book, this one still centers around the struggle between "good" and "bad," whether there really is a good or bad, if it's so black and white, or if we're all a bit grey. There's the introduction of new "Agent N" that was teased in the last book, and it really added to Nova's struggle, I feel! She also gets to know more of the Renegades, know them better, and has to consider where her true alliances really lie, and I loved seeing that struggle really develop! In addition, we now have scenes with the feared Ace Anarchy, who is still firmly on the sides of the Anarchists, and is still Nova's wonderful uncle, juxtaposed against the Renegades she spends so much time with!
This book did feel a bit slow at times in terms of the action, instead devoting more time to character development, which I both liked and disliked. For a superhero novel, I would have liked a bit more action and things to happen, but at the same time character development is so important!
The character development really gave more time to the budding relationship between Nova and Adrian! These two are so cute, and of course I'm such a sucker for slow burn relationships! There are some sweet awkward scenes too that are fun to read about, just screaming for them to get together already!
Unfortunately, I felt that this sweet character development between Nova and Adrian was at the expense of the other characters. I still love Oscar! He's so funny and also his love for food is basically me in a nutshell get someone who likes you as much as Oscar loves food haha. I would have really liked to see more of the other Anarchists though: Leroy and Honey and Phobia, who seemed to be much more prevalent in the first book than this one.
The one thing that really kind of bugged me about this book was that there were a couple of things that happened in the last book that I was hoping would be explained more here. For example, how is it that Nova survives and kills Ingrid when it seemed so inevitable that Nightmare had died in the first book? Also, why did we pretend that Ace Anarchy was dead for the entire first book, when he seems normal here besides to have a big reveal? I was hoping a few questions would be answered, and they weren't and that sort of makes it feel like a plot hole? But this isn't the last book so I still have hope and if they're answered in the third book all will be forgiven haha.
While I would have enjoyed a bit more action, the action scenes that we did have certainly did not disappoint! The book opens with an awesome sequence against a new villain that I loved, and the conclusion is even more incredible! I was on pins and needles the whole time the ending was happening, and it was everything I could have hoped for and omgomgomg I need the next book so much!!!!
Overall, I didn't enjoy this book quite as much as I was hoping, and not quite as much as I enjoyed Renegades or any of Meyer's other books, but I still really liked it and would definitely recommend you read it! (Although now I'm suffering because I spent the entire year anticipating it and devoured it in one afternoon and now I have to wait another year again...) Now, we only have to wait and see if it's more of a Lunar Chronicles ending or a Heartless one...I'm hoping for something in the middle haha!
4 stars
---
Since this book comes out in less than two weeks and will inevitably be reviewed by lots of amazing popular reviewers (whose reviews I can't wait to read!) and I will be pushed down, I'd like to take a moment to appreciate how I was once the 8th most liked review lolll.
also ALSDKFJAOIESKLJF OAWIEKJFSD OWJIOELKDSJF OWIJSDKF IT COMES OUT IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS
-----
5/18/18
THE COVER IS ART
AND ITS A TRILOGY OMGOMGOMGOMG
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