Monday, January 13, 2014

Infinite by Jodi Meadows + Giveaway

Infinite 
by Jodi Meadows
Read: December 15 - 19 2013
Published:  January 28, 2014 by Katherine Tegen Books **UPCOMING**
Source: ARC from publisher (THANK YOU HC!)
Category: Fantasy, YA

Series: Incarnate #3
Find: Goodreads | Amazon


DESTRUCTION
The Year of Souls begins with an earthquake—an alarming rumble from deep within the earth—and it’s only the first of greater dangers to come. The Range caldera is preparing to erupt. Ana knows that as Soul Night approaches, everything near Heart will be at risk.

FLIGHT
Ana’s exile is frightening, but it may also be fortuitous, especially if she can convince her friends to flee Heart and Range with her. They’ll go north, seeking answers and allies to stop Janan’s ascension. And with any luck, the newsouls will be safe from harm’s reach.

CHOICE
The oldsouls might have forgotten the choice they made to give themselves limitless lifetimes, but Ana knows the true cost of reincarnation. What she doesn’t know is whether she’ll have the chance to finish this one sweet life with Sam, especially if she returns to Heart to stop Janan once and for all.

With gorgeous romance and thrilling action, the final book in the Incarnate trilogy offers a brilliant conclusion to the compelling questions of this fascinating world, where one new girl is the key to the lives of millions.
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If you don't know anything about these books: Ana is the first new soul born into a world where the same million souls have been reincarnated over and over again for 5,000 years. After Ana's childhood of being isolated and unloved, Sam is the first person who shows her any care at all. He rescues her from a dangerous encounter with a sylph, and introduces her to his friends and the society around them.  Together they learn why she's so unique, what her life means for their world, as well as the reasons for the soul reincarnation (will Ana be reincarnated too?). Dragons, magic, music and futuristic technology also abound in this these books. 

Note: If you have yet to start this series, I tried to be careful about avoiding spoilers (especially any big ones). This review is safe for the final book. 

Infinite is the stunning conclusion to Jodi Meadows' Incarnate series. Everything I've enjoyed about these books is better in the final installment, and the parts that I hadn't previously connected with are their strongest in this story. I especially like the way this series has approached questions about life, death and immortality. In Infinite these themes combine to create a final book that is thoughtful, emotional and thrilling. Don't miss it. 

Five elements of Infinite - and the series - that stand out to me:

1) Ana and Sam. I love Ana and Sam so much it's painful. Their relationship has a gentleness and fierceness to it that is breathtaking. They are a standout reason that I love the Incarnate series, and Infinite increases everything about them that I adore. The way they care for and relate to each other is inspiring, and even in the moments when they are at odds, I could feel an aching pull between them. Jodi Meadows also does not skimp on swoon. I've highlighted and re-read so many delicious moments between them in this book. 

Sam to Ana: "I would choose you. Every time. No matter what."

Ana reflecting on her beginnings with Sam: "We'd danced as though we'd been dancing for years and centuries and millennia. And when we'd kissed for the first time, we'd become a song with one breath, one voice, and infinite melodies."

2) Music. Ana and Sam's connection to music, and the way it has connected them together even before they even knew each other, is another favorite aspect of this story. In Infinite their tie to music adds a richer more vital quality to the tale. This addition to the plot surprised me - and I want to discuss but it's a spoiler. However, mostly I desperately wish that I could hear Sam play one of his original pieces.  

3) Community. Of course Ana and Sam do not exist in a world all their own, and their friendships are no less standout in this installment. After three books I've grow to love Stef, Cris, Sarit, Armand, Orin, Whit, and many others. After Ana was unloved for so many years, I've enjoyed seeing Sam's friends rally around Ana, become her friends too and follow her quest to save souls. Even in ways that costs them their own lives. The way that Sam has included Ana in his circle of friends is another aspect of their relationship that I adore. 

4) Newsoul vs. Oldsoul. Ana's unique perspective on life as the first newsoul, and the ways she challenges those around her to think differently, continues to be one of the most thought provoking aspects of this story. It is also incredibly inspiring. Ana doesn't back down even when her opinion is unpopular, and her entire self worth doesn't disappear when her ideas are in the minority. I admire her resolve to do what she believes is right, no matter the cost. I also adore Sam for his constant support of Ana, even when it is painful for him. 

5) Fantasy and origin. While I've always been much more interested in the human story in this series as opposed to the supernatural component, the fantasy elements were the strongest in this installment. We got a much better sense of the broader context of this world - including getting to explore it a bit more and meeting different creatures. I especially loved getting to know the sylph better. In addition to exploring this world, Infinite provides a lot more information about Janan and how the reincarnation of souls came about. Reading Sam's prequel novella Phoenix Overture also helped give a stronger context for this society. I do still have a few unanswered background questions, but not enough to bring this story down for me at all. 

I've read several endings that disappointed me this year, but the conclusion of Infinite is one of my favorites. It is emotional and absolutely stunning. If you've been reading this series, you are going to love the finale. If you've yet to begin, it's the perfect time to get started. 

Love Triangle Factor: None
Cliffhanger Scale: Series conclusion


If you want to jump into reading these books right now, or would like to re-read the first two before beginning the final, an Incarnate Series Read-a-thon is beginning today! 
Click HERE for more information. 

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GIVEAWAY

ARC of Infinite



Policies:
Giveaway is for US or Canada residents only (Sorry, other international readers!)
You must be at least 13 years old to enter
See my policies HERE

36 comments:

  1. I can kind of, sorta play the guitar :) I would love to play better too. I love music.

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  2. Sounds like a good book to read and no i don't play any insturments.

    billiondollarprincesss@hotmail.com

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  3. I started Infinite way back when it released and promptly wound up DNFing it as it didn't grab my attention and Anna's character was flat for me. I wonder if that would still be the case as this series seems to be rather promising. Plus, I know how difficult it is to find a satisfactory series ending and if this has it, then I'm in. I'll definitely have to think about adding these books back onto my TBR... Great review, Lauren - so glad you enjoyed this! :)

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  4. OH GOOD! I was a little nervous about picking this one up Lauren, we're the same with regard to sequels/final books in a series. I get all stressed out that it won't be everything I want it to be, so I'm glad to see this one was such a success for you. To answer your giveaway question, I do not play an instrument. I'm a musical failure. I would love to play the violin or piano, but I'm not sure I have the patience to learn O.o I also would love to be able to sing, but I scare my dogs when I try, so I just mouth the words along to my Pandora when I'm working!

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  5. Oh, I've been wanting to start this series for a while, Lauren. Now that I'm aware the series conclusion hits every note, I know I shouldn't have any reservations about giving in. I'm very interested in Sam and Ana as individuals, but I'm equally curious about their romance too. Heartbreaking and heartfelt at the same time? How can I NOT want to discover their story? And the fantastic elements you speak of, though they are key, like you, I'll always look to connect with characters more. Beautiful review, Lauren!

    P.s. I wish I had the talent to play a musical instrument. If I did, I'd choose the guitar. I've tried to learn before, but I've failed on more than one occasion. :( I'll just leave it to my boyfriend to serenade me. ;)

    Marlene @ The Flyleaf Review

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  6. I've read the other two in the series and now I'm excited to read this one! I played the piano for 11 years and though I love to listen to it, it has been about 8 years since I touched it. But one day....
    embassie@hotmail.com

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  7. I sadly don't play an instrument! But i want to learn the piano badly

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  8. Great post! Yes, I play(ed) the trumpet and baritone in high school. I haven't played in a while now. I recently passed my trumpet on to my 12 year old cousin, who is in beginners band.

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  9. Great post! Yes, I play(ed) the trumpet and baritone in high school. I haven't played in a while now. I recently passed my trumpet on to my 12 year old cousin, who is in beginners band.

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  10. I've definitely enjoyed the musical aspect of this story as well as the love between Ana and Sam. At first, I was a little squicked out because, technically, Sam's ancient and Ana's just a young girl, but I got over that. It's a very intriguing concept wrapped in a gorgeous package (love the covers!).

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  11. I played the piano for quite a while, but stopped when I started to get too busy with school. Sometimes I wish I really hadn't quit though.

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  12. I love Anna and Sam too. I'm glad that Infinite is full of the swoon, that's one of the best part about the series to me. I never really played an instrument. I bought a guitar but have yet to take any lessons yet, but I plan to this summer.

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  13. Oh, Infinite! How I have been waiting for you! I am crazy about this series. I love Ana and Sam! Jodi Meadows is a fantastic author, and I adore her. I am looking forward to reading Infinite, and seeing how this beautiful story comes to an end. Although I will admit I am quite sad, as well. I will absolutely be ready for another of Ms. Meadows stories, whenever it heads my way! As far as an instrument, I don't play anymore but I did play the flute for a really long time, and also the piano. And I loved it. I wish that I had never stopped.

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  14. I got the 2nd book in this series last year at the ALA but I haven't had a chance to start this series. I'll have to seeing as you loved how it ended. Plus, I'll be able to read the books one right after the other! Love that. Thanks for the giveaway, Lauren! :)

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  15. I'm still a book behind in this series. I pre-ordered Asunder and everything, but then I got busy and forgot about it. At least it still looks pretty on my shelf. :) Glad to hear this series ends on a good note...I'd have to give up and skip it if your opinion were the opposite. Oh, and unfortunately, I'm not very musically-inclined...I've begged my husband for years to teach me how to play the guitar, but we're both impatient and I'm stubborn and it just never works out very well. :P

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  16. Why are you always reviewing books that I will start reading soon and I don't want to spoil myself in any way with reading anything about them? You're killing my spirit a little here, Lauren :D I can't wait to start the gorgeous copy of Incarnate that Christina got for me. It's so prettyyyy *stares* I read your last paragraph though and you loved the ending? WIN in my book, girl. Seriously! I. Am. Exciteddd!!!

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  17. I just hopped on the Sam and Ana train two weeks ago. I had Incarnate and was waiting till Infinite's release day became closer. This whole waiting for parts of a trilogy a year in between in AGONY. I started reading Incarnate too soon and ate it up in two days while I was sick in bed. Then I hunted Asunder down, found it, devoured it. Now I'm anxiously waiting for Jan. 28th.
    I felt as though (and I tweeted Jodi Meadows about it) that I was kindred spirits with Ana...Coffee and Music love-Sold. I play guitar (novice) and have been surrounded by music most of my life. Coffee, I'm addicted to. I cant wait to see what happens between Sam and Ana and...sniff sniff...Cris...anyway...Too. Many. Good. Books. coming out next two months! Where's a generous rich uncle when you need one.

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  18. I am so excited to read this book and even more so after reading your review. I'm always nervous to read the conclusion of series, but the fact that you loved it makes me happy. And I agree, the newsoul versus oldsoul aspect of this series is just so fascinating. And I love Sam and Ana! Do you recommend reading Phoenix Overture? I usually don't read novellas, but I'm wondering if it adds to the series in such a way that I should read it. Great review, as always! ~Pam

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  19. The five things you've mentioned are actually my favorite things about the Incarnate series as well! Just from reading your review, I can already tell that I'm going to adore Infinite. I've really liked the way that Jodi built her story from the first book where Ana is searching for answers, to this final one where it seems like she'll get some. The concept of this trilogy (particularly when it comes to reincarnation, souls, life and death) is fascinating, and I'm dying to see how Jodi ties it all together! Great review. Thank you, as well, for sharing about the read-a-thon!

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  20. I just did my Waiting on Wednesday post about Infinite. I need this book so badly!

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  21. Well, okay I didn't read the review because I don't want to spoil the first two for myself...I don't play an instrument - I took piano for a while but I couldn't do chords. I sing though, and I love music more than anything except books. It's transformative and magical. Yet another reason I want to win this book so I can read the whole series.

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  22. I haven't read this series yet but it's so good to hear about a series that ends on a high note for once.

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  23. So excited for this book as well! It'll definitely help get me by until Ignite Me! I'm so glad to hear it ends on a good note. Pardon the pun? haha!

    I don't play a musical instrument, unfortunately. I used to play piano when I was younger though. Now, I guess I play vocal chords. :P

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  24. I play the violin. I started playing since I was in the 4th grade. My siblings and I could be a trio, two violins and a viola. =D

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  25. Great review. I still have yet to read this series.

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  26. I have not read this series yet but it is high on my list. I love that their connection is through music. My husband and I met through music so it has a special place in my heart. I do not play anymore, but I use to play the flute. My husband is still very active in music though. Thanks for this giveaway!

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  27. (This is Darith L.)

    I don't play istruments, but I admire people who can play the piano and the acoustic guitar. This series sounds great! I've got the first book, but have yet to read it as I have so many on my TBR pile. :)

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  28. I haven't read this series. I've been seeing it on the blogs though, so it's on my to-read list! I don't play an instrument anymore but used to play piano.
    Dede

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  29. Sigh, I'm finally getting back into the world of books after a year-long break. I completely forgot about this series until I saw your review! I'm soooo behind ><''. Well, I'm in the orchestra program in my school and I play the viola :). I love my viola to pieces (haha, not literally, please don't break on me). And I've auditioned for a couple of orchestras where I made rather high chairs (or rankings). Thanks so much for the giveaway!

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  30. I love the layout of your review and how thorough it is...I do not play any instruments.

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