I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Ally by Anna Banks
Series: Nemesis #2
Published by Feiwel & Friends on October 3, 2017
Pages: 320
Format: ARC
Source: the publisher
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Princess Sepora of Serubel and King Tarik of Theoria have formed an uneasy truce between their kingdoms since the deadly plague began to rip through Theoria. Since their feelings for each other are entangled in politics and power, they must use their own trusted resources to find common ground.

But when traitors with powerful allies arise from unexpected places, Tarik and Sepora face challenges that will change both of their kingdoms forever. Will they learn whom to trust—including each other—in time to save their kingdoms, their relationship and even their lives?

A message from Meredith: Hey everyone! Today, I have Lissa here with a guest review for Ally by Anna Banks!

You can find Lissa on Twitter!

Without further adieu, here’s Lissa’s review! Enjoy!

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Ally picks up right where we left off in Nemesis (and thank goodness, because I was dying to know what happened next!) As we left our hero and heroine together but not, the story focuses on both their continued relationship struggles and the external political and societal issues. Sepora’s parents come into play in a big way and Sethos’ role increases as well.

There were plenty of swoonworthy and a few sob worthy moments and I was completely invested throughout the whole book. (I read it in nearly one sitting. If only I didn’t need sleep!) There were several twists and turns to keep you on your toes as well.

I will say that I almost want to take a star or half a star off for the new cover. I hate it. If Nemesis had a similar cover when it first came out, I may have skipped it (or waited a really long time to read it) because this cover is boring and unattractive. Luckily, I was already heavily invested in this world and a fan of the author’s writing, so the cover became irrelevant.

But the ending was completely satisfying with a heartwarming epilogue. Highly recommended for fantasy fans, and lovers of great characters. I look forward to seeing what Anna Banks will write next.

I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Nemesis by Anna Banks
Series: Nemesis #1
Published by Feiwel & Friends on October 4, 2016
Pages: 359
Format: ARC
Source: the publisher
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

Princess Sepora of Serubel is the last Forger in all the five kingdoms. The spectorium she creates provides energy for all, but now her father has found a way to weaponize it, and his intentions to incite war force her to flee his grasp. She escapes across enemy lines into the kingdom of Theoria, but her plans to hide are thwarted when she is captured and placed in the young king’s servitude.

Tarik has just taken over rulership of Theoria, and must now face a new plague sweeping through his kingdom and killing his citizens. The last thing he needs is a troublesome servant vying for his attention. But Mistress Sepora will not be ignored. When the two finally meet face-to-face, they form an unlikely bond that complicates life in ways neither of them could have imagined.

Sepora's gift may be able to save Tarik’s kingdom. But should she risk exposing herself and her growing feelings for her nemesis?

A message from Meredith: Hey everyone! Today, I have Lissa here with a guest review for Nemesis by Anna Banks!

You can find Lissa on Twitter!

Without further adieu, here’s Lissa’s review! Enjoy!

~*~*~*~*~

As a long-standing fantasy fan and an extremely character driven reader Nemesis hit all the right buttons with me for a fabulous read.

First up we have a well-developed fantasy world with an interesting blend of magic and science. There is some basis in an Egyptian landscape/society, but it is largely cosmetic. There is extensive world building that makes it the author’s own.

Then you have the characters. Sepora is spunky, and opinionated, and caring and courageous and I adore her. Tarik is at once bemused by and attracted to her spirit and secrets. In addition to his rapport with Sepora, Tarik has his own trials and growth as a character. The supporting characters are well developed and add to the plot and development of the main characters without being blunt cardboard stereotypes.

Plus I am a sucker for animal sidekicks. And both MCs have their furry or not so furry friends.
The stakes in this series are legitimate and unambiguous, with real consequences and moral dilemmas handled realistically by all parties, without being overtly preachy.

Perfect for fantasy fans and lovers of independent minded characters and witty banter. I eagerly await the next book.