Nemesis (Nemesis, #1)

by Anna Banks

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 weaponise it, and his intentions to incite war force her to flee from his a 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 ruler ship 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 could save Tarik's kingdom from the Quiet Plague. But should she trust her growing feelings for her nemesis, or should she hide her gifts at all costs?

• ISBN10: 1250070171
• ISBN13: 9781250070173
• Publish Date: 4 October 2016
• Publish Status: Active
• Out of Print: 4 May 2021
• Publish Country: US
• Imprint: St Martin's Press
• Format: Hardcover
• Pages: 368
• Language: English

Reviews

Review originally posted at Simply Adrift.

• Nemesis was exactly what I was looking for after being in a reading slump and was a lot of fun to read for many reasons.
• You pick up this book expecting a light Young Adult; but what you get is an in-depth, well structured and clear story.
• The story is told from both Sepora and Tarik. This makes a great story from alternating views without ruining anything.

What I liked

• The world of Nemesis was very vibrant and clear. I could actually see the world beyond the characters which is something I've been having trouble with in books lately.
• The background and history of both Serubel and Theoria were detailed, very different and easy to tell apart. I loved that the history from both places was clear and easy to remember - I really hate it when a book isn't clear on a worlds history, it gets confusing fast.
• The characters were very fleshed out and solid. They had emotions and thoughts and it was so easy to read each person, it was easy to tell them a part as well.
• The romance was a slow burn and entertaining to read. Slow burn romances are the best.

What I didn't like

• There's a point in the book when Sepora goes back to where she came from, I felt like it was too easy for her to go back without consequences.
• The sequel to Nemesis is so far away!

Always,
Jordon

This review was originally posted on Simply Adrift

[liz089]

I really liked this !! I got it in my FairyLoot box and I had to get into it right away. I love her other series, the Syrena Legacy, and was very curious about this one.
And it did not dissapoint (too much).
I liked the main characters, though Sepora could be a little annoying.. and Tarik was not the most original character.. but fine enough.
The romance did not really jump out, though I liked the tension.
What I liked most of all wat the world-building and setting. There are not much books about this particular setting and I like the originality of it. I hope we see more of the other kingdoms in the next book !

[Chelsea]

**I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences my review. **

What I Loved

This was a book where I ended up loving it more than I thought I would. I don’t know why I thought I wouldn’t like it, probably because I read some negative reviews, but I was honestly enjoying myself through the whole book. I loved how it played on Egyptian culture but there was a lot of fantasy elements mixed it. I found the whole word to be pretty unique actually. They used the pyramids and the pharaoh wore a big headpiece just like in Egyptian mythology. Then there was these giant serpent beasts that people could ride or use them to spy. It just felt different from anything I’ve read about before.

I did enjoy the characters, specifically our main character. She could be a little annoying at some parts but I’m starting to feel that way about all teenage characters right now. I understand she was just trying to survive though which helps if you remember to think of that while reading. Plus she really was put in a difficult position and while I didn’t agree with what she did all the time I can understand why she felt the need to do it.

What I Didn't Like

My only complaint for this book was that parts of the plot could be a little predictable. All the world building left my expectations a little high for the plot but it was still a lot of fun to read. The characters were also typical for YA which I didn’t really mind but it didn’t blow my min either.

Who I'd Recommend To

I’d recommend this to anyone who loves to read fantasy books with fun world building. The characters and plot were a little typical for YA books but if you can easily overlook that or don’t actually mind those tropes (like me) then you’ll have a great time reading this book too.

[chymerra]

This book has been in my TBR pile since I heard that it was going to be published and when I got an ARC from NetGalley, I was beyond pumped. I couldn’t wait to sit down and read it and when I did, I was completely absorbed in the story.

I absolutely loved Sepora. She was definitely ballsy. I mean, who would fake their own death, trudge across a desert, take on slave traders, save a half-fish/half girl cannibal (that she thought was myth) and then escape from the royal harem? She would. She also had to hide the fact that she is a Forger of spectorium, a rare metal that all the kingdoms need. Not an easy task since she produces it like sweat but she has her ways.

I liked Tarik and felt a little bad for him. He had just lost his father to a mystery and incurable illness called the Quiet Plague that is running rampant through his people and, at the age of 18, is responsible of running the kingdom of Theoria. Which is a huge take but he has a hidden ace up his sleeve. He is a Lingot. A Lingot is someone who is able to tell if someone is lying just by listening to them. A very useful trait to have for a Pharaoh.

Which brings me to this. I was thrilled that the Theorians were modeled after the Egyptians. I have a strange fascination with Egyptian mythology and love it when any type is used in a book. I am still trying to figure out what Sepora’s people, the Serbulians, are modeled after. I want to say Vikings but I am not too sure.

Sepora and Tarik’s romance was a slow burn. There was attraction but neither one of them did anything until almost the end of the book. Which worked for me because they were able to work on other aspects of their relationship. Like being friends.

Sethos has to be my favorite secondary character followed by Rashidi and Cy the Master Healer. Sethos was the epitome of a 15-year-old and I loved it. From wanting into the pharaoh’s harem to just being the annoying younger brother, it was awesome….lol. I liked Rashidi because he was older and gave Tarik some sound advice and Cy the Master Healer because not only because he was a 13-year-old prodigy but he was willing to everything and anything to stop the Quiet Plague.

The ending of the book, I didn’t really like. While I understand what happened had to happen, doesn’t mean that I like it. Nothing was resolved and that meant everything in Book 1 will be carried over into Book 2. Which, for everyone’s information, I am very about.

Oh and I want to add that I absolutely LOVE the cover of the book!!!

How many stars will I give Nemesis? 4

Why? I loved the plot and the characters. The only thing I really didn’t like was the ending (see above)

Will I reread? Yes

Will I recommend to family and friends? Yes

Age Range: Teen

Why: Very clean. No sex (just one kissing scene), no violence, no offensive language. Just some pretty descriptive scenes of the Quiet Plague

**I received a free copy of this book and volunteered to review it**

[layawaydragon]

First, let me say I absolutely hate the cover. And there’s no goddamn reason for this nonsense. When I first saw this months ago, I said “nope” and liked several reviews stating how problematic it is.

In fact, I STILL like those reviews and support those refusing to read this book because of it. That’s what I planned to do as well. So how did I wind up here? *record scratch*

I received an email from FFBC for signing up on this tour. It was HTML only, no pictures. It sounded great and I wanted a fantasy novel so badly. I’ve had a string of good luck with progress contemporary novels and hoped this would continue the trend in the fantasy realm.

It wasn’t until it was too late that I realized this book was the one with the blackface cover.

*headdesk* *sigh*

Now that I’ve read and loved Nemesis, I fucking hate the cover more. And I didn’t think that was possible. The cover could’ve been fantastic like the contents. Instead, it’s nauseating in its insensitivity, will turn people away, and makes me a hypocrite.

So, from the deepest trenches in my heart, fuck everyone involved with this bullshit, from those that created and approved it to those that said nothing or support it.

If you’re refusing to read Nemesis, I support you and I’m sorry. I’m sorry people that this cover was a good idea, didn’t see anything wrong with it, and people are still defending it. And I understand being upset or disappointed in my failure to follow through on not supporting the book. I feel that way about myself for those same reasons.

Which really, really, really fucking sucks on top of all the other problems because without the cover I’d be basking in the after effects and upset about the cliffhanger ending because I need to follow the story. GRRRR.

The fact that I loved reading Nemesis doesn’t negate any of this criticism or my praise to come. Though I do wonder if the cover wasn’t a problem, would it rate higher?

With all that said, my review is next. Hint: 4 Stars. You may continue or not at your own discretion.

The Good:
+Loved Sepora & Tarik
+Loved their relationship and banter between them
+Loved the magic and fantasy worldbuilding
+Didn’t see things coming ahead of time
+Loved how it actually deals with ruling a kingdom


The Bad & The Other
-----The fucking cover
-Cliffhanger ending that’s SO mean >:/
-----Did I mention the cover?

Things to Know:
They aren’t sworn enemies except for their families. They’ve never met before and this story would be completely different if they had. It’s not a full on blood feud, battling it out in the streets when the families cross each other. It’s a cold war between two ruling families with their history, traditions, temperament, and kingdoms in the way.

Nemesis opens with Sepora traveling on her serpen fleeing her home. This is the perfect way to get me interested. However, the beginning had info dumps and repetition. I don’t have the memory of a gold fish, okay? So I wanted to, but wasn’t feeling it at first.

Every other chapter is Tarik’s and his felt much smother. Or it was more dynamic because he was doing stuff while Sepora burning to a crisp in the desert lamenting her fate. (No, her skin isn’t black nor ever painted like cover.)

Once Sepora meets up with people it starts rolling. Her privilege from being a princess is readily apparent as is the culture shock of Theoria. Though she never actually slums it, she is at least aware of her luck. It’s nice to see her care for people of lower classes as people instead of a bottom-line to a healthier economy and stronger country. (which is true and should be a goal for any ruler like Tarik, but we’re still people down here, ya know?)

Meanwhile Tarik is fangirl worthy. I loved him prowling around with his big cat and struggling to handle his new promotion to king. He’s obviously got blind spots accepting traditions and not thinking about things, but he’s a good person and does see reason later.

Now, the way Sepora ended up in the palace and ran around was a bit…stretched at times. Like okay, really? But I enjoyed it all. The interesting magic system, though it’s not commonplace, the different kingdoms, the focus on energy usage, water, etc. for running a kingdom, the plague, the Parani, and of course the serpens. There could always be more serpens.

But what really hooked me was their relationship between Sepora and Tarik. I loved. every. single. goddamn. minute. They are perfect for each other and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

While reading I was completely immersed and smashed through in a single day. Then I noticed the pages were running out and started panicking. Sure enough it ends on a massive unforgiveable cliff hanger. WHYYYYY?!?!

[Sam@WLABB]

A great new entry from Anna Banks. This book is quite different from The Syrena books, as Bank's signature humor is missing (seriously, I saw her in a panel a few years ago, and she is hilarious), but it made sense with the tone and setting of this story, and it did not make me enjoy it any less. This is Egyptian mythology with a twist, as there are the paranormal aspects (Favors, spectorium) and flying dragon type creatures (yeah!).

Banks gave us some great characters. Sepora was an awesome and strong female heroine, who constantly risked herself for what she thought was right. Time and time again, she was bold and put herself in danger for the greater good, and she spoke her mind when it was necessary. Tarik was also from the new school of rulers. He constantly tried to balance his firm hand with his soft heart, and oh, he really did have a beautiful heart. Sometimes, he had to go against his heart to do what was right for his kingdom, and this pained him so, but again, it's all about the greater good.

I found the world Banks created to be intriguing. She did a great job of describing the 5 kingdoms and the inhabitants. We learned the most about Theoria and Serubel, where the bulk of the story takes place, but were often treated to tidbits of the other kingdoms, and I hope to learn more about those other lands later in the series.

I cannot lie, I sort of threw a fit at the ending. However, I will forgive Anna Banks, as I know another book is on it's way.

Overall: entertaining fantasy adventure with magic, nefarious plotting, and romance.

[bookishzelda]

Wow Nemesis by Anna Banks completely sucked me in! I actually didn’t realize the book was a series. I’m not sure why but I’m hoping the next book is in the POV of a couple different characters.


Sepora was such an interesting character for me to read because I had my moments where I didn’t like her and moments I did. I actually kind of loved that about her. She is very strong, wise and completely observant. As much as she was mistreated in her own kingdom, she still is strongly concerned about the people who live there. She is willing to bend in order to keep war from happening. Her ability to produce Spectorium as a Forger is both a blessing and a curse for her. The part where I had mixed feeling about her is her reaction to some of Tarik’s action. As someone who is a Princess of another kingdom and deceiving the King of another kingdom. I thought her lack of understanding in some situations baffled me. She is willing to do whatever she needs to save her people but almost looks down on Tarik when he does the same.


I loved Tarik the Falcon King. Another cool ability here as a Lingot. He is able to discern truth from fiction. I really like the way he carries himself and cares about his kingdom in the broader spectrum instead of just supporting the superiors. He’s able to keep an open mind when dealing with affairs that allow him to be a better ruler. He often says he is not as physically strong as his father and brother Sethos but that’s not always the most important thing.


I liked the romance because it was slow brewing. Both sides are leary of the other due to their political interest. They have many things they have to work out but truly enjoy the company of the other. It’s all so very complicated.


I loved Sethos, Tarik’s brother. I’m really hoping his POV and the princess of Hemut are included in the next book. They were both side characters that we only had snippets of in this book but you can tell their stories would definitely be interesting.


I enjoyed the World Building and the influence of different cultures into the kingdoms. We spend so much time in Theoria, which is Egyptian inspired but I would love to get a peak of some of the other kingdoms.


Completely aesthetic but as cool as the cover is. I felt like it didn’t represent the story well. When I first saw it, I thought it was a Gladiator book, especially when put together with the title.


I really enjoyed Nemesis and felt like it was such a quick paced read. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book.

[tweetybugshouse]

Reviewing for ARC around the world tours, this book, was amazing i heard a bit of hate for the cover but i think it make unique and actually made me curious about the story more then making me not want to read it. I for one tend to be drawn in by covers and this one did just that.
I love the uniqueness of this story and the world the author has created, we have 5 unique kingdoms that we get to know a bit about but this book is mainly focused on two kingdoms and two main characters. I did think the forging the sepora had to do for most for the story was a bit weird tell i got to understand a bit more about what it meant to be a forger and for all she knows the only one.

I did find some humorous parts in the story and i loved the fact that it did not end the way i expected it would and i really wanting to read the next book. Their is a lot to love in this story you got magic, a strife between kingdoms and unexpected fantasy characters that all equal out to a very unique story.

[Ashley]

Well shucks.

I didn't love it and I'm pretty upset about that.

I guess I feel like my first impression of this book (title/cover) was totally wrong and that really threw my whole experience.

Nemesis -> To me, screams intense, awesome, badass warrior girl on a mission for revenge.
Cover -> To me, reinforces the idea I had about the title. Kind of a stone cold killer type warrior princess.

I guess when I reread the synopsis, the synopsis doesn't give me any of those things, so maybe I shouldn't have anticipated them. Because none of those are present in the book. (But to me this also implies a pretty bad disconnect between the synopsis/story and the title/cover.)

Basically, the main character Sepora, and Tarik are not enemies. Not really, anyway. Hundreds of years ago there was a bit of a disagreement and Tarik's kingdom branched off from Sepora's. But since then, they've lived as peaceful neighbours. Tarik is certainly not Sepora's nemesis; her father simply doesn't like Tarik's kingdom. He's just a grumpy old king who's still butt-hurt about Tarik's kingdom branching off from his... before either of them were even born.

Anyway, before I totally tear this apart, I'll talk about some good things.

I really loved the setting. It's sort of a spin on a tech savvy, fantastical ancient Egypt, which is only the coolest thing ever! Deserts, cats, pyramids, pharaohs... Oh gosh, it's brilliant!

Plus there's this whole spectorium forging thing, which was both cool and slightly weird (weird how they were injecting it into people, and among other things).

Also there are five kingdoms total along with at least one other species that's intelligent but not really a "Kingdom". We only get bits and pieces but I really enjoyed those bits. Anna certainly created an interesting world.

Now, sadly, let's hop back over to the bad.

This book's pacing was so odd.

The VERY VERY beginning was interesting. Sepora has run away from her kingdom. I was immediately interested!

But then, almost THE ENTIRE FIRST HALF of the book is just... boring. A crazy big percentage is Sepora travelling through the desert on her way to Tarik's kingdom, Theoria.
Just her.
In the desert.
Until she gets kidnapped.
Then her and her kidnappers.
In the desert.
For so long.
As Sepora plots her escape.
For AGES.

It takes her FOREVER to even meet Tarik and I was bored of it.

Then when she finally does meet him, I was interested again. But that was at like 50% or some crazy mark.

Then as the book got towards the end, I started not to like it again. Tarik got weird. It's like he lost all his substance and just became a caveman.

"Sepora.
Pretty.
Curvy.
Silver eyes.
Me want.
Me want Sepora.
Sepora be mine.
I make Sepora wife."

He lost every interesting thing about him and became solely focused on his attraction to Sepora, and I so wasn't on board with it.

I started out interested in the romance, but I just thought it got worse as it developed. I lost all interest in it.

I don't think I'll be continuing with this series. I love the world it takes place in. I thought it was super creative! But the romance kind of ruined it for me and in my experience, if I don't love the romance in a romance novel then the rest of the series is kind of doomed (for me).