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Wildcard by Marie Lu has an exciting plot that is just as exciting as Warcross. The main character is also strong, and there is a prominent theme of family that I loved. If you have yet to pick up this series, I would definitely recommend it as it is the kind of series that will become an instant favourite.
Series: Warcross #2
Author: Marie Lu
Also by this author: The Young Elites (The Young Elites #1)
Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers
Genres: Sci-Fi, Young Adult Fiction
Publication Date: September 18, 2018
Rating: 
Series Rating: 
Emika Chen barely made it out of the Warcross Championships alive. Now that she knows the truth behind Hideo's new NeuroLink algorithm, she can no longer trust the one person she's always looked up to, who she once thought was on her side.
Determined to put a stop to Hideo's grim plans, Emika and the Phoenix Riders band together, only to find a new threat lurking on the neon-lit streets of Tokyo. Someone's put a bounty on Emika's head, and her sole chance for survival lies with Zero and the Blackcoats, his ruthless crew. But Emika soon learns that Zero isn't all that he seems--and his protection comes at a price.
Caught in a web of betrayal, with the future of free will at risk, just how far will Emika go to take down the man she loves?
Review: Wildcard by Marie Lu
This book picks up after Warcross and follows Emika as she attempts to stop Hideo’s mind controlling technology as well as stay safe in her city. I love the virtual reality, the sibling softness, and the unpredictable plot. I would say this sequel is more character-driven than the first book, and a lot more insight on both Hideo and Zero’s pasts is revealed. There isn’t much of the actual game mentioned, but I did still enjoy the new plot to uncover the past.
❀ Hard not to Ship Erika and Hideo
Emika is as badass as ever, and I love her for it. She is strong and willing to do anything to stand up for her values. She faces many difficult decisions throughout the book, but I would say that she handles them well and stays loyal to her true friends. Of course, I can’t not talk about her relationship with Hideo. Ultimate ship right here. Hideo’s character develops a lot more in this book, and I enjoyed seeing his more emotional side.
❀ Strong Family Theme
One of my favourite aspects of Wildcard is the theme of family. Any book about siblings is an instant win for me, and I wasn’t expecting this story to get so touching. I got so emotional reading about Hideo’s brother who was kidnapped at a young age, and I just loved how he will do whatever it takes to find him again. Honestly, everything Hideo does is for his brother, and I am all for it.
❀ Perfect End to the Series
Wildcard by Marie Lu is the perfect end to one of my favourite series. The plot is fast-paced, and the main character is so fierce. What I especially enjoyed is the theme of family. I am so sad to let go of the world of Warcross, and I really hope there is another addition to the series sometime in the future!
About Marie Lu
I write young adult novels, and have a special love for dystopian books. Ironically, I was born in 1984. Before becoming a full-time writer, I was an Art Director at a video game company. Now I shuffle around at home and talk to myself a lot. 🙂
I graduated from the University of Southern California in '06 and currently live in LA, where I spend my time stuck on the freeways.
About The Candid Cover
Olivia ❀ Canadian YA book blogger, Starbucks lover, & professional bibliophile.