Publication date: Sept. 30, 2014
Publisher: Kensington Teen
Category: Young Adult - Paranormal
Source: Received from publisher via Netgalley (Thanks!)
Summary: Michael Merrick is used to pressure. He’s the only parent his three brothers have had for years. His power to control Earth could kill someone if he miscalculates. Now an Elemental Guide has it out for his family, and he’s all that stands in the way. His girlfriend, Hannah, gets that. She’s got a kid of her own, and a job as a firefighter that could end her life without a moment’s notice. But there are people who have had enough of Michael’s defiance, his family’s “bad luck.” Before he knows it, Michael’s enemies have turned into the Merricks’ enemies, and they’re armed for war. They’re not interested in surrender. But Michael isn’t the white flag type anyway. There will be blood on the ground tonight (Adapted goodreads.com)
The good
Sacrifice is the final book in the Elemental series and one that I've been looking forward to for a very long time because - we finally get Michael's perspective! The eldest Merrick brother has been selflessly taking care of his three younger siblings since their parents died. We've seen him through the eyes of Chris, Gabriel, Nick and even Hunter and now we learn just how much is on his shoulders. Which I don't think I fully saw until this book. He's always been a vital part of the series as this sort of stoic but dependable caretaker. In Sacrifice, we get to see his vulnerable side. The truth is, he is constantly under the pressure of protecting his brothers. From Guides who are hunting his family down, fellow Elementals who want to start a war and just the day-to-day responsibility of making sure there's a roof over their heads and food on the table. Not to mention, we get a glimpse into just how powerful he is as an Earth elemental (to put it mildly, scarily strong!).I have to admit, it was a little strange to have his brothers be in the background of this final book and a part of me missed them and their own relationships. But it made sense since it was Michael's turn to shine. And little moments made it clear just how much they all depend on him. We see how his brothers look to him for decisions, the gratitude Hunter feels for his generosity. We also get a better look into his romance with Hannah. Her story took up a good portion of the book which surprised me but also convinced me as to why she and Michael work so well. We find out her struggle as a firefighter when her own father is the fire marshal and about her son. Between Hannah, Michael, heartbreaking family drama, the Guides, some unexpected twists and the stakes being higher than ever, Sacrifice was a fitting end to the Elemental series.
(Minor) reservations
My only reservation is that the ending felt abrupt. I guess I expected something bigger that would give me, and the characters, more closure than we actually got. It just felt a bit open-ended plus I still have some questions on the Guides. I knew they were the enemy but half the time they felt so faceless and I think if we knew more about them, their impact would've been stronger.
Do I recommend?
I do! It's a great fast-paced series and I've looked forward to every book.
Happy reading!
Michael is such a great character! I could relate so much to how deeply he loves and cares for his brothers, and the feeling of responsibility he carries on his shoulders. There are a few things I wish they'd added to the novel (more romance! and more ending!), but overall, Sacrifice is a great addition to the series.
ReplyDeleteI absolutely loved this book! I completely understand what you mean about the ending. I went to stalking the author until she told me that she purposely left it open, so that later on she might expand on it with a novella or another book. I really hope it isn't too long of a wait though, especially now that the series is finished. Love your review!
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