The Diabolic

Gr 9 Up—Nemesis is a Diabolic. More important, she is Sidonia's Diabolic, trained to protect her at any cost. Diabolics are engineered to bond with one person and to spend their lives guarding them. They have no emotions, needs, or desires except for keeping their charges safe. Sidonia, a senator's heir, is at great risk, since her father is considered a heretic. In a galaxy where the Emperor and his family rule through fear, Nemesis will do anything to protect Sidonia, even if it means impersonating her. When Sidonia is summoned to court, Nemesis must pose as her to keep her away from the dangerous members of court. In a place filled with lies, deceit, and greed, Nemesis tries to determine who she can trust and who is an enemy. However, pretending to be fully human is starting to affect Nemesis. She is beginning to care for people other than Sidonia, although she was not created to care. Could Diabolics possibly possess the ability to love? Kincaid has crafted incredible characters who readers can relate to and care for even if they range from privileged, bratty children to creations designed to kill. The imagery used in establishing these protagonists and the complex setting will thrill the YA audience.