A review by amarylissw
The Diabolic by S.J. Kincaid
5.0
So much yes. A brutal protagonist. A world with genetic alterations. A plot with political backstabbing and behind-the-scenes romance.
The first half was enjoyable, immediately pulling you into the story and giving you a strong introduction to Nemesis's character, as well as the politics of the world. Then, the second half is like a total roller coaster. Twists and turns at every corner, emotional upheavals, and not knowing who to trust . . . this book got better and better. I loved the way our protagonist approached things -- not with the usual MC mindset, and it was a very fresh POV. Likewise, the love interest was lovely to read about: calculating and entertaining, and confident in his emotions and beliefs. The romance, though it didn't really start until the second half (and moved a little bit fast for my taste, especially considering who Nemesis is) was still amazing and very well-written.
The world-building in this story is also superb. I mean, a zero-gravity ball? Count me in! I loved how Tyrus and Nemesis interacted with the other characters (his uncle and grandmother, mainly) in order to gain the upper hand, using underhanded or obvious tactics to gain the people's favor. It was all genius, and the ultimate climax was brilliant.
Overall, a definite five stars from me. And yes, so excited for the sequel!
The first half was enjoyable, immediately pulling you into the story and giving you a strong introduction to Nemesis's character, as well as the politics of the world. Then, the second half is like a total roller coaster. Twists and turns at every corner, emotional upheavals, and not knowing who to trust . . . this book got better and better. I loved the way our protagonist approached things -- not with the usual MC mindset, and it was a very fresh POV. Likewise, the love interest was lovely to read about: calculating and entertaining, and confident in his emotions and beliefs. The romance, though it didn't really start until the second half (and moved a little bit fast for my taste, especially considering who Nemesis is) was still amazing and very well-written.
The world-building in this story is also superb. I mean, a zero-gravity ball? Count me in! I loved how Tyrus and Nemesis interacted with the other characters (his uncle and grandmother, mainly) in order to gain the upper hand, using underhanded or obvious tactics to gain the people's favor. It was all genius, and the ultimate climax was brilliant.
Overall, a definite five stars from me. And yes, so excited for the sequel!