The Replaced audiobook

An Electronic Advanced Reader Copy was provided by the publisher via Edelweiss for review. Quotes have been pulled from an ARC and may be subject to change.I gobbled this one up right away because the ending from The Taking was so crazy and left on a cliffhanger. I was sad that this eventually suffered from second book syndrome AT FIRST, but then it changed on a dime and you're bombarded with a ton of action and a plot that just keeps moving it will make you dizzy.Kyra just keeps trying to find out more about what happened when she was taken and the mystery that surrounds her abduction.Her powers grow stronger and stronger and one example would be the bowling scene where she wasn't thinking and ended up doing something that shouldn't have happened.I was also very surprised that she didn't worry a lot about her father since in the first book, that's pretty much all that happened. I love the chemistry between her and Simon. It's one of those instances where people will either love it or hate it, and I'm happy to say I'm on the loving it side. The kissing scenes were pretty hot and nonetheless I wanted more development between the characters. Boy did I get it!The second half just kept going with all the crazy revelations being made and twists and turns and Ahh! Also that ending pretty much gutted me because it's one twist that I didn't see coming. I love The Replaced, and this one was still a solid read to the trilogy. If you like your science fiction novels with a whole lot of mystery grab this one, I know it will be an enjoyable read. Now we just have to wait for the final book..RATING 4/5QUOTES"You knew we were different, you just didn't realize how different.""I don't need you to take care of me, and I didn't say I was afraid.""I guess you never knew about people, and where you'd find someone you could count on.""Maybe comforting was better than fireworks anyway. Comforting fit like a sweater, and kept you warm, and made you feel protected.""No one could take my past, my history, the narration of my life away from me."

such a fun sequel, with a pretty crazy twist at the ending! and of course, a cliffhanger too! video review to be posted tomorrow :)

The Replaced is book two of The Taking series by Kimberly Derting and I have been waiting to get my hands on this book since I finished book one. The book picks up shortly after The Taking ended and if you haven’t read that one yet, you might want to hold off on reading this review. Not because I am going to spoil anything with this book (or at least try not to) but because I don’t want to give anything away on the first book.Ok, so this book picks up shortly after book one ends. Kyra has been at the Silent Creek camp in Oregon where the other Returned are and she has been relying on Simon and some of the others to help her find her dad and Tyler. When a message comes through that an unidentified male has been found and is being held at a facility for inspection, Kyra jumps at the opportunity to see if it really is Tyler.While at the camp, Kyra has become friends with a few of the people there and they are the same people that are headed out to the facility with her. Natty, Willow, Simon, Thom, and Jett all make the trip and as they get to the location, things don’t go exactly as planned. They also end up face to face with Agent Truman and after their escape, Kyra finds out how many secrets the group has been keeping from her. The biggest one being around the replacement DNA she has in her and the fact that Agent Truman is specifically hunting her. Now that the group is on the run again, they decide that they will need to head to Blackwater Ranch, which is where Thom and Simon met. As the group gets there, Kyra finds out there is more to the story than Thom and Simon led her to believe and she finds out that the leader of the camp, Griffin, has a history with them. She also finds out that Griffin’s story is a bit different from the rest of the group as she has a connection to the scientists working for the government.Kyra also finds out that the one person she has been looking for, Tyler, has been at the camp but things aren’t the same as when he left since he can’t remember how their relationship changed when Kyra came back. It was definitely difficult for Kyra to adapt to being just friends with Tyler but at the same time, she was clearly starting to have feelings for Simon…which I wasn’t happy about. A lot definitely happens in this book and I only covered a very small portion of the actual things going on. There is a lot of action and a whole bunch of secrets are revealed to Kyra and this book ends with a bang. I loved how Derting tied everything together and explained what is really going on with the differences Kyra has within her (compared to the other returned). If you liked The Taking, definitely read this one when you can. You will get some answers but like me, you will also have more questions when you hit the last page. I can’t wait to see what happens with these characters and will be waiting anxiously for the next book.Thank you to the publisher for the review copy!

When you love a first book so much, it is really hard not being excited about the sequel and even harder to not have high expectations for said sequel. Which is why I went into The Replaced with such hope that I would love it every bit as much as I did the first.And while I did struggle a bit in the beginning with a slow start, I did end up loving this. Maybe not quite as much as the first book but overall I was once again thrown right into Kyra's crazy mixed up life of being on the run, worrying about those she left behind, info about the aliens themselves, and trying to get more information about what being a Returned means. Throw in a bunch of conspiracy, a love triangle (I know, I know, it didn't need to be there but some how it did add to the story), and more perplexing info on the Returned and you got one heck of a plot line, one that left me with more questions than answers and itching to get my hands on book three.Overall I'm pretty happy with the way this turned out and it was a worthy sequel to the first.

♥ Find my reviews here: Literary Meanderings- - -*This review will contain spoilers for The Taking (book one in this series)!*Synopsis (via Goodreads): Kyra hasn't been the same since she returned from her mysterious five-year disappearance. Now, on the run from the NSA, Kyra is forced to hide out with others who, like her, have been Returned. Yet she is determined to find Tyler, the boy she loves who was also abducted—all because of her. When her group intercepts a message that Tyler might still be alive but is in the hands of a shadowy government organization that experiments on the Returned, Kyra knows it's a risk to go after him. What if it's a trap? And worse, what if the returned Tyler isn't the same boy she lost?- - - Eighty-four minutes. That's how long it had taken us to cause an explosion, break into a secret NSA lab... and lose one of our own. The first chapters of The Replaced are a whirlwind. An amazing whirlwind.Actually...The entire book is a whirlwind! Can I just say... I was very much anticipating this follow-up and Kimberly Derting did not disappoint!Backtracking, for those of you who are foggy on book one, let me refresh you. This goes without saying, but just in case: SPOILERS FOR BOOK ONE AHEAD!!Alright, in a nutshell? Kyra was abducted. She reappeared five years later with no memory of what happened. As expected, Kyra is quite shocked—as are her friends and family. Her boyfriend and best friend are together. Her parents are divorced; mother remarried, father insane. Kyra falls in love with the boy next door. She and him have a wondrous romance complete with sappy bits of dialogue and cutesy acts of adoration. Kyra finds out she is changing; but also not changing. Not aging. Healing rapidly. Moving things with her mind. She also has toxic blood. Blood which Tyler, the new love, comes into contact with. The only way to save Tyler is by letting him be abducted. This is all found out through a group of Returned just like Kyra. In the end, Tyler is abducted and Kyra is left reeling from this coupled with the disappearance of her father.Jump to The Replaced. This book takes place within just days/a couple weeks of the first one. Tyler is gone and Kyra has received a shady message from someone that may just be her missing dad, saying that the NSA has Tyler. This is bad-news-bears due to the fact that the NSA wants to experiment and/or kill people like Kyra and the other Returned. They swoop in, things are not what they seem, etc. etc. What I loved about the beginning of this book is that the author did not waste any time. She charged head-first into the good stuff. She just dropped me right in the middle of a hellstorm. This not only includes a kickass opening chapter, but a steady pace from cover to cover. Never a dull moment. Something always gripping; always holding you captivated. Not just words on a page, but a series of events that you can feel and almost touch.The action is palpable, and so is the romance. When Kyra and Tyler are finally reunited, things are shaken up even more by a crazy twist. Tyler doesn't remember the events leading up to him being taken. He doesn't remember Kyra coming back after the five year disappearance OR them falling in love. This throws Kyra into a haze of emotional discord and confusion. To tell, or not to tell? Is the time right? Will it ever be right? Will he remember on his own? Derting also throws the curve ball of Simon having a thing for Kyra. Love triangle? NO NO NO. This was my only complaint about The Returned. I feel like the love triangle with Simon really dulled the bond we were supposed to see between Kyra and Tyler. I feel like this was a mistake... but things were left slightly in the air, so maybe there is a reason for this that I cannot yet grasp, because Kimberly Derting clearly likes to shake things up.A huge part of the plot is focused on Kyra's group of Returned constantly running from agent Truman and the rest of the NSA group tailing their every move. Every time these guys turn around, there the NSA is, breathing down their necks and trying to kidnap Kyra above everyone else. The story follows the group from place to place, and this creates fantastic new elements within the story. Not only that of bonds between current characters, but brand new characters altogether. I was very impressed with the new additions as well as the plot twists they brought with them. Get ready to pick up that jaw when it falls to the floor!Lastly, along with the action and romance comes knowledge. We learn some answers to the who and the why questions we were left with at the end of The Taking. The aliens and the government and what they were up to. Who was involved and why. Why Kyra is different from the other Returned... “My dad liked to talk.When I was one of his subjects......both sides wanted all along was to create a replicate...Not a hybrid, but...It was what they referred to as Replacement.” Overall, The Replaced was a hit! A complete hit. The romance was a little off-kilter, but still fantastic in an overall sense. The action and pace were ON POINT. The use of plot twists was exceptional and perfectly timed throughout the book. The characters developed very well and I also enjoyed the new ones I got to meet. Derting wrapped this one up with yet another cliffhanger to keep you waiting with bated breath. I am stoked for the final book in this trilogy so I can see where this roller coaster ends! If you were at all a fan of The Taking, I highly highly HIGHLY recommend reading this second book. If you haven't read either? What are you waiting for?! I promise you will not be disappointed. It has a little of everything and is age-appropriate for the YA genre. I hope you'll check it out!This review can also be found on YouTube: HERE!- - -Book source: Publisher via edelweissPublisher: HarperTeen

'The Replaced' is the thrilling second installment in a young adult science fiction trilogy. Our main character, Kyra, is finally back after being taken for five years. She's on the run from the NSA and seeks out others like her who have been returned. Kyra is dead set on finding Tyler - the guy she's in love with who was also taken. So when her group finds a message stating that Tyler might be alive but captured by an underground government organization - one that experiments on people who have been returned. Kyra knows she's risking her life by going to find Tyler. She might be walking right into a trap they've set for her, or worse, Tyler might not be the same person she fell in love with. Will she be able to find Tyler and save him? Or will the people she's running from finally catch up to her?I've read several of the author's other books, so I have to admit that I had some pretty high expectations and hopes for this one. Once again, the author knocked it out of the park. The book surpassed all of my expectations and hopes - and then continued on to blow my mind. It's hard to write a review after reading a book that sticks with you long after you're done reading it - my mind is scattered all over the place, so I apologize if I ramble on or don't make much sense. First off, I'm going to say it again - I absolutely loved this book. Sometimes the second book in a series can tank and end up ruining the series. In my opinion, this sequel was just as good as the first. The author's talent is clearly evident from the very beginning of the story - I found myself sucked back into Kyra's world from the first paragraph. It was like I had never left. The book was fast paced and gripping - it had me reading as fast as I could to see what would happen next. There were lots of twists and turns in the story that I totally didn't see coming, which - in my opinion - made the novel even better. This book has something for everyone - science fiction, fantasy, paranormal/supernatural elements, action, suspense, and lots of thrills - and lovers of all types of fiction would surely enjoy this book and series.Kyra is a great main character for the series/book. She's strong - mentally and physically - and can take on serious bad guys and obstacles that get in her way. Once she has her mind set on something, she's determined to see it through and will go to any length to make sure it gets done. She matures even more in this book and I really enjoyed watching her character grow. She has to make hard decisions and do things she never thought she would just to stay alive. I'm excited to see what she'll do in the final book and where things will end. The plot continued to be unique and exciting - I was riveted from the beginning and didn't want the book to end. The author continues to surprise the reader with each passing chapter. I can't wait to see where the final book will go and what surprises await us. I very highly recommend this book (and series) to fans of all genres, as there's a bit of something for everyone - especially those who enjoy science fiction, fantasy, aliens, and thrillers.Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

3.5 stars.While this definitely fell in the "second book syndrome", i still really enjoyed it, considering it only took me about 2 hours to read it.

I finally decided to start this series since I know the 3rd book is coming out in 2 months and it’s spring break, so why not series-binge? I read the Taking and now I read The Replaced. I’m really enjoying this series. This sequel does not disappoint. It’s just as good as the first book. The only probably I had with it was the lack of Tyler, and Kyra romance with him. The Taking series is a fun, entertaining and mysterious sci-fi read. Perfect for fan of the X-files. I watched the new 6-part series recently, so I felt in the mood for some alien stuff. To recap The Taking, Kyra Agnew, a 16-year old girl from Burlington, Washington, was taken after her high school softball team won the championship in 2009. She got into an argument with her dad, exited the car and saw a blinding light. She wakes up on the ground behind a gas station thinking she somehow choose to sleep outside for the night. She doesn’t find out that actually 5 years have gone buy since that night until mistake her boyfriend’s younger brother Tyler for her boyfriend Austin. Tyler who was only 12 last time she saw him, and is now suddenly looking 17. She starts to fall for Tyler, since Austin already moved on. The NSA is after Kyra, and wants to experiment on her. Kyra meet Simon, another Returned who knows more about this stuff and she learns that normal Returned usually come back within 48 hours, not 5 long years. She can heal faster than the others, see in the dark, hold her break longer, sleep less and move stuff with her mind. Kyra finds out her blood is toxic and she infected Tyler accidently. Kyra tries to save Tyler by taking him to a place where abduction happen a lot and want the aliens to save Tyler by making him a Returned. Agent Truman comes after them. Kyra uses telekinesis to get the gun away. Fireflies appear and Tyler is taken, and Kyra is knocked out. In the Replaced, Kyra, Simon, Jett and Willow are at a different camp than the one Simon ran, since that one was attacked. She makes friends with a girl named Natty. Thom runs the camp there. Simon’s camp stays separate from the Silent Creeker of Thom’s camp. They hear news of Tyler possibly being held captive by Agent Truman’s Daylighters (the shady NSA section). There’s also a message that may have be sent by Kyra’s father. Kyra, Simon, Willow, Natty, Thom, and Jett go on a rescue mission, which turns into a bust. They escape, but can’t go back to their camp, so they end up traveling all the way to another camp in Utah, outside Zion National Park. Since they’re being tracked and their photos are out there, the have to change the appearance. So in a gas station bathroom, Kyra dyes her blond hair a reddish brown, Natty dyes hers black and Willow’s hair goes from brown to brown (not much of a disguise). The other camp is big, but is run by someone Simon and Thom had a falling out with. When they arrive, they’re treated like prisoners. The leader runs the camp like a boot camp for soldiers. Also, there may be a traitor in the mist, giving information to the Daylighters. Kyra runs into someone she never expected to find at the campI enjoyed this sequel. I really liked how many interesting twists there were. Especially near the end. I suspected as much just based on the title. I really think Kyra’s abilities and alien hybrid DNA stuff are cool. I like books about super powered teens. I still a little disappointed in the romance of this sequel. I kind of feel like the author wants out hearts to break over Tyler by making him so wonderful and then taking him away. I recommend this series to fan of: The Rules trilogy by Stacy Kade, The Host by Stephanie Meyer, Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi, Unremembered by Jessica Brody, Mila 2.0 by Debra Driza, Blackout by Robison Wells, Rush (the Game Trilogy) by Eve Silver. Pretty much anything with aliens, or teens gaining superpowers. X-file fans, Fringe fans, Kimberly Derting fans (I only read the Body Finder series).Cover Art Review: Cool looking cover. Looks like stars in the type. Too bad it’s not metallic. ~Haley GMy blog:http://breathlessbookreviews.blogspot...

3.5 starsThe Replaced is a book that I was eager to read because of the ending on previous book and I was very happy to find out that this book starts exactly where The Taking left off. Kyra hiding from the NSA (a governmental organization that captures the Returned), but at the same time trying to find news about her father and Tyler; so when she learns of a possible sighting of a boy that might be Tyler, she doesn´t think twice and decide to go in search of him which triggers a series of events that threaten them as returnees and in the company of Simon, Willow and Jett, she should seek shelter in a camp for returnees like no other that she has known so far and where she doesn´t know whom to trust.I really enjoyed this second book of the trilogy The Taking, as we learn a bit more about the beginnings of the first meetings between the government and the aliens(?), about their deal with them and has some interesting twists that really surprised me,The plot begins with a good pace, but soon it slow down in the middle, to then to pick up speed in the end, where secrets come to light, identities are known, we get to know a little more experiments on the Returned and there is a small confrontation. I liked the ending, it was good and solid. The Replaced is a good second book in a trilogy and I recommended it for those that like YA sci-fi books.

3.5stars Not really what I was expecting which is good because it's not that predictable. I did wanted to see more of one particular character than another but I'm totally going to read the next book.

I am really loving this series. I have just started "The Countdown." Can't wait to find out what happens to Kyra and Tyler .... not to mention all of humanity!

I can't wait to read this book, especially after the ending of Taking was so...

3,5

Like Twilight but with possible aliens Cute insightful teen book with good writing, strong characters. sequel to The Taken.

A truly excellent sequel that was full of even more action and secrets than the first, The Replaced was a fantastic YA read. From the twists, to the game-changing revelations, this book was great and I absolutely loved it.Kyra continued to prove herself as a strong character. She was resilient, determined, and unwilling to leave anyone she considered a friend behind. Despite her difficult circumstances, she also still found in within herself to be kind and compassionate. I really liked her in book 1 and I still liked her in this one.Tyler wasn't in this book as much, having been separated from Kyra after he was Returned. When we did see him again, it was certainly a surprise, considering where (and how) he ended up. But, despite the situation, he was still the adorably sweet guy we know and love and I hope for the best with him.Simon took a bigger role in this book, becoming a third member of a love triangle. Or, at least, that's what he wanted. Kyra was unwilling to let go of Tyler, so it was more of a potential love triangle. We got to know him more and what I saw made me rather fond of him. Regardless of what happens, I hope that he gets a happy ending.The romance was well done. I didn't feel annoyed with the maybe-love triangle, which is really an accomplishment considering how quickly I get frustrated with those. But, with everything that happened, things seem to be shaky in that arena, so we'll see how it goes in the next book.The plot was fast paced and kept me hooked all the way through. The secrets, twists, and revelations in this book were brilliant, changing the game and keeping me on the edge of my seat. I absolutely loved the story and the ending has me anxious to find out what will happen next. Can't wait for book 3!The Replaced was an absolutely wonderful YA read that I really loved. It was a perfect sequel and a positively thrilling read. Fans of book 1, you won't be disappointed.*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review

The second book in The Taking series is quite the departure from the first. Where the first book centered around Kyra's return, and her romance with Tyler, with the NSA and abduction plot-line inching ever nearer as the end of the book neared.With book 2 things both speed up considerably, and go from romantic to action packed the whole way through.That is not to say that there is not finally some surprising pairing up of sorts, between the hunky Simon and lady K. While she is still on the hunt for Tyler no less.But said hunt is quickly and mercifully put on the back burner, as revelations about Kyra, and exactly why it is that she is so important to NSA officials, and the like, comes to light.And there is more running.Then there is the addition of cast members Willow, Natty, Thom, and Jett.This is where things start to get more than a little confusing. As secrets, plots, and hidden agendas start to come to light.And more running.There is another stop and the addition of cast member Griffin. (A girl.) And still the uncovering of still more secrets. These concerning past relationships within the group, and secrets involving Agent Truman.And yet, more running!There is so much changing of scene and action, that this is a book that one really must pay attention to when reading it. The fact that so much of it has to do with plans, schematics, and the more technical side of the predicament that those involved share, can seem like a bit of an info dump at times. This is however, tech with a purpose, and as the story progresses it fits very well into place.With all the action, you would think that things would be left for resolution until book 3.Not so.There is both a very violent, and a very sweet end for two persistent plot lines within this read.That is not to say that ALL of the loose ends meet with their respective bows just yet.There is a very surprising cliff here. With a very surprising hanger.