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Surrender (Haunting Emma #3)

by Lee Nichols (Goodreads Author)

3.97 of 5 stars 3.97 · rating details · 700 ratings · 96 reviews

After a devastating battle at headquarters in New York, the ghostkeeping world is in shambles. When Emma and Bennett return home, they are determined to defeat the wraithmaster, Neos, forever. But it's not going to be easy. Bennett's parents kick him out when they realize he is still using drugs to enhance his powers. Emma is convinced her aunt has come back from the dead

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Paperback, 258 pages

Published December 6th 2011 by Bloomsbury USA Childrens

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Apr 24, 2012 Donna {Book Passion for Life} rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: for-review, from-publishers, ya-paranormal-romance

I’ve been a huge fan of Lee Nichols’s Haunting Emma series since the start and I have to say, finishing this book – Surrender; which is the third and final book in the series, was a sad moment for me because, even though this book was so, so good I’m still not ready to leave these characters behind but of course, Lee Nichols’s ends it with a bang and it was PURE-AWESOME!

This time around we see Emma and the gang trying to deal with the aftermath after the battle at the Knell; the ghost-keepers h...more I’ve been a huge fan of Lee Nichols’s Haunting Emma series since the start and I have to say, finishing this book – Surrender; which is the third and final book in the series, was a sad moment for me because, even though this book was so, so good I’m still not ready to leave these characters behind but of course, Lee Nichols’s ends it with a bang and it was PURE-AWESOME!

This time around we see Emma and the gang trying to deal with the aftermath after the battle at the Knell; the ghost-keepers headquarters in New York. Everyone is unsure of what to do next and people are more afraid then ever. But Emma is more determined then ever to banish Neos forever. To do that, she needs to allocate his ashes which are hidden in Thatcher Academy somewhere and she really needs the help from her friends more than ever but that’s easier said than done. Bennett’s parents arrive home and kick him out when they realise he is still addicted to a drug that enhances his powers and Emma’s friends are all wrapped up in their own problem. But Neos won’t wait forever….and soon the fight it bought to them. Can Emma defeat Neos once and for all? And can she save the one she loves the most before he destroys himself?

Surrender is a fantastic finale! Lee Nichols’s definitely left this series on a high note and I have to say it’s definitely my favourite out of all three books. From start to end, it’s fast paced, exciting and full of danger. And of course, the romance is hotter than EVER! And this is why I loved this story so much because we got to see Emma and Bennett really be a couple. Their scenes with each other was so sweet and beautiful and yes, they do have their up’s and down’s but it’s nothing they can’t overcome together.
I adore all the characters especially Emma, Bennett, Lukas and Harry but I’m glad to see they all go the ending they deserved. I have to say, even Bennett’s parents grew on me and I was glad we got to get to know Emma’s brother too.

Overall, Surrender did not disappoint at all and if you’re looking for a spooky ghost story, full of laughs and romance then this is the series for you. Highly recommended!

A huge thank you Bloomsbury UK for giving me the opportunity to review this book(less)

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May 25, 2012 Kristin Lundgren rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya-paranormal, ghosts

This series, of which this book is the last, is charming, warm, sweet and funny. Spoilers ahead if you haven't read the others!! This last book starts out with Bennett, her one-time "guardian" and boyfriend hooked on Asarum, an herb that boosts ghostkeeper's abilities. Two ghostkeepers can't be together, as one, the stronger, will drain the other's powers. Emma mother's gave up her powers for her father, and Bennett's dad for his mom. But Bennett believes he needs to be at his most powerful to h...more This series, of which this book is the last, is charming, warm, sweet and funny. Spoilers ahead if you haven't read the others!! This last book starts out with Bennett, her one-time "guardian" and boyfriend hooked on Asarum, an herb that boosts ghostkeeper's abilities. Two ghostkeepers can't be together, as one, the stronger, will drain the other's powers. Emma mother's gave up her powers for her father, and Bennett's dad for his mom. But Bennett believes he needs to be at his most powerful to help fight the evil ghost Neos, so as he and Emma can't stand to be separated, he is taking this drug, which is turning him into an addict. In the very beginning, Bennett's parents arrive home to find them making out in his bedroom, and Bennett an addict. They are not happy, and do not seem fond of Emma. They banish him back to New York, to the headquarters of the Knell,the ghost keeping society, which is decimated after their last battle with Neos. So the Sterns move back into their house, and Simon, their previous guardian in Betrayal goes back to run the Knell with Bennett's help. Lukas stays behind, and she and Natalie, another ghostkeeper whose parents repudiated her, all become nominal wards of the Sterns and return to classes at Thatcher Academy. But they know more than before, and have the help of more earthly and non-earthly beings in their fight against Neos. She brings her "normal" friends into the picture, and they all work on this. By now, her friends have forgiven her for the part she played in their friend Coby's death in Book One, and their subsequent shunning of her for part of book two, and it's all for one, and one for all. Retaining the charm, and quirkiness of the other two books, together all three books make a satisfying concoction, a truffle if you will, made by Anatole, their French chef. Lots of little details help build the characters, and Nichols has a strong hand with that - every person is not cookie cutter, and has problems and baggage of their own. And she understands that some of us want our minor characters to have as well-drawn a character as the main ones. And that is a big plus for me. These are comfort food. My big complaint is that knowing what is on the line - basically the forces of darkness from the Beyond against the normal world, and still Emma can't keep her hands of Bennett, and he off of her, and so he takes the Asarum, and starts doing things he shouldn't. Even knowing all that, she still makes moves on him, and can't keep her hands off him. Makes for a strong love story, but things like that always bother me. I'm like to think I'm the kind of person who would put aside my feelings for the betterment of mankind should it be needed, and the only exception would be my kids who I would die to protect. But I wouldn't make things worse for them or us by continuing behavior that isn't necessary right now. Wait a while until the crisis is resolved. Then decide if you want to proceed with losing powers on one side. But wait a few months? Teen hormones at work.(less)

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Sep 05, 2012 Evie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-i-own, jumping-up-and-down, all-time-favorites, as-awesome-as-it-sounded, amazing-epic-and-awesome, epic, books-i-ve-read, favorite-ever, super-excited-about, no-words-describe-the-awesomeness, love-love-love, spectacular-and-fantastic

Wow. Just wow. This is one of the best serieses I've ever read! I'm so sad to see it end but it was a great ending. And beginning. Because I know the end of Neos is just the beginning of the rest of their lives. Lee Nichols wrote one of the best casts of characters ever in this series. I loved them all so much. Sara, Natalie, Lukas, Simon, Max, Harry (oh my gosh Harry really came through in this book! Page 139. That's all I'm gonna say.), Coby (I cried), Edmund, Moorehead, Craven, the Sterns, Em...more

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Apr 09, 2012 Siobhan (Totally Bookalicious) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Surrender is book 3 and the final book in the Haunting Emma Saga. And it the best one out all 3 books. I adore these books and Surrender was nothing short of amazing. It's fast paced, action packed with just the right amount of romance that keep me hooked.

Now usually here is where I do a small plot summary but I feel if I do it would end up spoiling the whole series. So I'm leaving it out. If you have read my previous reviews on this series you already know my feelings towards the main characte...more Surrender is book 3 and the final book in the Haunting Emma Saga. And it the best one out all 3 books. I adore these books and Surrender was nothing short of amazing. It's fast paced, action packed with just the right amount of romance that keep me hooked.

Now usually here is where I do a small plot summary but I feel if I do it would end up spoiling the whole series. So I'm leaving it out. If you have read my previous reviews on this series you already know my feelings towards the main character. I think Emma is one of best female characters I've read about in a long time. She is brave, witty and loyal to her friends. Her relationship with Bennett is a rocky one but they are so cute together and in surrender there is a few laugh out load, cringe worthy moments between them.

Deception and Betrayal left a lot of questions hanging in the air with a lot of mystery around some characters and thankfully everything is answered in Surrender. The story that started in Deception comes to a close with dramatic effect and characters that seriously kick ass. I couldn't put the book down even though I didn't want the book to finish the ending was absolutely perfect.

Lee Nichols has create such an amazing series. I haven't read many ghost stories but this is for sure one of my favourites. It's hard not to get sucks into the world of ghostkeepers. There is highs and lows like any series out there. But this book, Surrender 100% perfect. I can't find a fault with it at all.

Sorry if my review is rambling and may not make sense. I just can't really express into words just how much I loved this book. I laughed and cried (oh boy did I cry) I rooted for characters. I invested so much in this book that I felt like I was part of it. That Emma and her gang of friends were my friends. And for an author to be able to create it is something very special.

If you haven't yet started this series please go and try it. It's amazing, quick and full of ghostly action. I can't wait to read more of Lee's work and hope maybe one day there will be more of the ghostkeeper world in the future. (less)

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Mar 27, 2012 Sarah Simone rated it 4 of 5 stars

So I really enjoyed this Saga for the most part, Lee Nichols is good at developing characters. In this book I really grew to like Natalie and Lukas even more as well as Coby, Sara, & Harry. Craven and Moorehead were involved as always and there was a lot more action in this book.

Obviously since this was the end of the trilogy we had to deal with Bennett's drug problems, his parents, Emma's parents, killing Neos, Natalie & Lukas' budding relationship, and every other problem in between. T...more

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Mar 12, 2012 Rebecca Alora rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-i-own, favorite-series, books-read-in-2012

This book was a great end to an outstanding series, but at the same time? It was a little too convenient in some ways. Everything was wrapped up neatly with a little tiny bow. Our characters didn't really have to suffer real losses in their battles, but whatever. It was still a thrilling conclusion.

I'm going to do this review a little backwards in the sense that I have to say the "final battle" was riveting. You genuinely didn't know how Emma was going to win and how she did was definitely a sho...more This book was a great end to an outstanding series, but at the same time? It was a little too convenient in some ways. Everything was wrapped up neatly with a little tiny bow. Our characters didn't really have to suffer real losses in their battles, but whatever. It was still a thrilling conclusion.

I'm going to do this review a little backwards in the sense that I have to say the "final battle" was riveting. You genuinely didn't know how Emma was going to win and how she did was definitely a shocker. After everything that the book prepared you for what was done at the end to defeat Neos was not at all what I was expecting.

Something really awesome about this book is that it marks the reappearance of not only Emma's family, but of Bennett's parents as well. And you begin to find out just exactly how much everyone has lost. And that parents, at the end of the day? They act like parents. Both sets reaction to the Emma and Bennett relationship is nigh on perfect. It's exactly how I would expect a concerned and caring parent to act.

The relationship between Lukas, Natalie, and Emma is so solid. They all come from families that, in one way or another, don't really have parents. They have become each other's family, a feeling that is solidified in a major way in this book. I love that they found each other and they have each other to lean on.

There are quite a few surprises and twists in this book that you don't see coming at all. A character's drug addiction is completely disturbing in the way that it seems so real, but once again it's tied up so nicely and neatly in the end that you almost forget how bad it was.

Harry and Sara forever remain such stalwart characters, putting themselves in danger, even when they can't exactly protect themselves, for the sake of their friend's memory and their actual friend. Harry will always be my favorite, amusing me to no end with his crazy and insane antics. I wish I could just hug him to bits...and do expresso shots with him!

Lastly, I love the development of Emma. She goes from being this scared little girl in the first book, to coming into her own finally in this book. She's still scared, she's still a teenage girl, but she grows up a lot. She learns about responsibility and what family really means. All in all these books are about making your own destiny. You are not what they say you are. You are who you are meant to be in your own right. You make your destiny.(less)

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Dec 28, 2011 Khawla rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: ghost fans - paranormal

Shelves: ghosts

Surrender was a great ending to an amazing Trilogy although it will be hard not reading about Emma's ghostly adventures they were really fun cause they were my first ghost books I read, I usually read about vampires so reading about ghosts was an interesting change.

I liked everything about the book and loved all the characters especially how Emma and Bennett got their ending and they didn't have to completely lose their powers so it was nice how they get to share there powers between them when...more

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Jan 31, 2012 Book Angel Emma rated it 4 of 5 stars

Please bear in mind that this is the third book in the series and may therefore contain spoilers for the previous books.

I love this series so much that I couldn't wait for it to be distributed in the UK in April so I bought the US copy. I am so glad I didn't wait.

Surrender picks up from the end of Betrayal perfectly. The ghost keepers are trying to put their world back together following the massacre at The Knell. The shock and despondency of the ghost-keepers at their defeat can be felt from wi...more Please bear in mind that this is the third book in the series and may therefore contain spoilers for the previous books.

I love this series so much that I couldn't wait for it to be distributed in the UK in April so I bought the US copy. I am so glad I didn't wait.

Surrender picks up from the end of Betrayal perfectly. The ghost keepers are trying to put their world back together following the massacre at The Knell. The shock and despondency of the ghost-keepers at their defeat can be felt from within the narrative. The realization that Neos is just biding his time to gather his strength and that there is a very real possibility that they wont all survive is starkly represented.Confronting their own strengths and weakness is one aspect of the plot, each characters development is enhanced via their group dynamics and the resolution of these issues. Although Emma may have the strongest ghost-keeper powers she wouldn't have the strength of personality, loyalty or love without her friends and Bennett.

Bennett's struggle with the ghost-keeper drug, enhancing his powers in order to help Emma even if it kills him, is an issue with everyone. The understanding of his reasons was a brilliant piece of writing within the plot providing valuable insight and understanding at the conclusion.

The action is as fast paced as ever. The descriptive writing adds to the tension while keeping the pace flowing smoothly. Interspersed with the character relationships, their actions are linked a lot to their emotions, adding to the realism. Especially if like me you are an emotional person, lol. The non-ghost-keeper members of their team, Sara and Harry, show that you don't have to have supernatural powers to be of help. Harry's narrative voice, so full of sarcasm, helped dispel the tension when required.

Emma's plight at having to banish ghosts she cares for is easy to understand and emotionally portrayed within the narrative. Empathy for both sides can be felt, the ghost for not wanting to remain in a state of limbo and Emma for losing these people forever.

The mix of action, character development and of course, romance, brings this series to a wonderful and well rounded conclusion. (less)

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Jul 19, 2012 Paola rated it 5 of 5 stars

5 stars out of 5
Oh. My. God! This was definitely the best book of the series. I just can't even begin to describe how awesome it was. I couldn't stop reading it.
Even though I was dying to know what would happen between Emma and Bennett and if they could finally dispell Neos, it was so sad to finish these series because I'd started loving all the characters and their personalities. Besides I couldn't ask for a better ending, Lee Nichols gave us exactly what we wanted and more.

Surrender, the thir...more

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Apr 19, 2013 Magdala rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 5-stars-the-best-books

I loved the book, or series should I say. Emm n Bennett lived happily evr after without the evil guy(dead). Whn Bennet sacrificed his powerful powers, that some wasn't evn his, and his whole plan all along was to put all tht combined power and giv it to Emma so she can finally defeat Neos. It worked too^_^. Well 1 thng I can say for sur is tht, out of all the deaths tht happened in the series, Rachel deserved to die. Her stupid decisions, thinkin tht she can actually trust the bad guy n believes...more

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Nov 05, 2011 Damaris (GoodChoiceReading) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Surrender is the third and final book in Lee Nichols series, Haunting Emma, and it does not disappoint! If you have read the first two books in the series, Surrender will answer all of your questions that were left unanswered. I was literally biting my nails with the suspense. I found that Surrender was a lot less predictable than the first two books in the series. I had no idea where the story would go, and how Bennett and Emma would end up. There were times I felt bad for Bennett and wished ev...more

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Dec 31, 2011 Love2read rated it 4 of 5 stars

Just completed reading this book and although I enjoyed it very much I felt like something was missing. I really liked the first book in this series, i really caught my attention. I particularly enjoyed the love story and the ghost mysteries. With that in mind I think the author had prepared my brain for something really big at the end, but I feel like I didn't find what I was hoping to find.
Overall I enjoyed this final book and would recommend this series. I, however, must say that the conclus...more

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May 25, 2012 Karen & Gerard rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: adventure, fantasy, funny, relationships, romance, survival, suspense, teens

Surrender by Lee Nichols is the last book in the Haunting Emma series that I enjoyed. This series is part fantasy with ghosts, wraiths, ghasts and also about friendship, loyalty, forbidden love and adventure. I liked the humor throughout this series and recommend it if you want a light, entertaining read. The first two books in this series are: Deception and Betrayal which you should definitely read first. Surrender is mostly about romance with lots of action near the end. The ending was good, b...more

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Jul 15, 2012 Rachmi rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: ebook

As the final installment, I expect Surrender will be better than its prequel or at least as good as Deception and Betrayal. But it's quite disappointing. There are too many stories that distract main story, to defeat Neos. It's like the story going nowhere, except to deal with characters' problem whereas they forget the main problem for a while.

I also didn't understand why all characters depend on Emma to defeat Neos. I know she's the most power full ghostkeepers but she's a teenager who just k...more

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Dec 05, 2011 Karen rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: on-my-kindle, finished-series

Surrender is the third and final book in the Haunting Emma series. The ghosts are getting stronger and Neos is more dangerous than ever!

It was great to be back with Emma and the gang and I am happy to say that I loved everything about this book. It was a humorous and exciting end to an enjoyable series. As soon as I delved into the book it became obvious that Neos was building in strength and this final battle was going to something major.

I loved Emma more than ever in this final phase of the st...more

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Jul 08, 2012 Khushboo rated it 4 of 5 stars

Got a question. If Rachel was willing to commit suicide for her love, isn't it the same as what previous Emma when she was willing to sacrifice her life for previous Banett? But eventually Banett was the one who killed Emma, even after she had taken the poison; just like Emma killed Rachel even after Rachel did what she did. (sorry, no spoilers!).So why did Emma died the normal death, while Rachel got eternally doomed??
Anyways, I really enjoyed the series. it was pretty different than what i usu...more

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Aug 05, 2012 Janeen rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, from-the-library

I am glad I read the conclusion to this series. I was happy to find out what happened to Emma and Bennett.

But I took off a star for the lackadaisical attitude of all of Emma's so called allies to the threat of impending doom. Emma lost some important object down an old well or something? Well why doesn't the knell send someone on down to find it if it's so important?

At one point, they *know* that a big attack is coming, and the folks from the knell are all, "gee, I hope it doesn't come before...more

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Mar 15, 2013 Lucy rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: ghosts, paranormal, romance, young-adult-series, supernatural-beings

I would have liked if the end wasn't left so open.

There are lots of questions yet to answer, such as what is going to happen with Emma and Bennett now, whether Natalie and Lukas will ever get back together, what's going to happen with Sara and Harry, whether the Rake finally "crossed over" and was reunited with his Emma, what happened with the two ghosts that were always teasing Emma, etc.

Also, I was expecting the final fight between Emma and Neos to be...harder. It seemed that it was way too e...more

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Dec 11, 2011 Katy rated it 2 of 5 stars

For a rather short read, this book felt SO long. I really struggled to finish it. I was a bit disappointed there wasn't more action. The book was mainly drama - Emma and Bennett, Emma and her parents, Emma and his parents, Nicole and Lukas, etc. I understand Nichols was trying to build up the suspense until the big blowout, but I was really bored until the last three chapters or so. I figured she would drop a piece of action here or there other than just ghost sightings and short-lived possessio...more

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Jul 31, 2012 Philippa (Tea, Daydreams & Fairytales) rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult, paranormal, romance, 2012-release, 2012-read, review-written

This review was originally published at Tea, Daydreams & Fairytales on 29th July 2012.

Actual Star Rating: 3.5/5

I absolutely loved the first book in this series and subsequently devoured both Deception and the sequel Betrayel in a weekend. Unfortunately it was a good 12+ months until I got onto this final installment and I found it much harder to get into. I’m not to sure if it was simply because I couldn’t remember so much of what had happened at the end of book 2 or if it was just a weaker...more

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Jun 28, 2012 Hannah (Jaedia) rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult, paranormal-urban-fantasy, ghost, fiction, received-for-review

Originally posted to Once Upon A Time.

Surrender was never released in the UK and as such, we Brits had to accept that our Haunting Emma collections would look something like this:

Thankfully, it is a trilogy worth making do with mismatched covers as it’s a delight to read. And I did spend a fair while making bets with myself over the colour of book three. I think I went with orange but I guess we’ll never know!

It had been a long while since I’d read Betrayal, book two of the trilogy, and so it t...more

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Apr 14, 2012 Sarah rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-i-own-print, read-in-2012, for-review-read

Surrender is the third and last book in Lee Nichols' Haunting Emma trilogy and it really sends the series out with a bang. The story picks up right after the ending of Betrayal with Emma and the rest of the ghostkeepers all reeling from Neos's latest attack. They know that Neos is gaining power with every day that passes and that Emma has the best chance of defeating him but just how much will she have to give up in order to beat him?

This has been a really enjoyable series and as much as I'm a l...more Surrender is the third and last book in Lee Nichols' Haunting Emma trilogy and it really sends the series out with a bang. The story picks up right after the ending of Betrayal with Emma and the rest of the ghostkeepers all reeling from Neos's latest attack. They know that Neos is gaining power with every day that passes and that Emma has the best chance of defeating him but just how much will she have to give up in order to beat him?

This has been a really enjoyable series and as much as I'm a little sad to see it end I was pleased with the resolution to things. Emma has really grown as a character since the first book, she is much stronger now that she has learnt to use her abilities and I've enjoyed seeing her find out about the ghostkeepers and their history. I did expect that we would learn more about the Knell in this book and was surprised that they didn't seem to have much of a role to play in the story - particularly since Simon was sent back to headquarters to help them rebuild. It was a shame to break up the ghostkeeper team from the last book but at least Emma still had Natalie and Lukas to rely on for help.

In Betrayal I had missed the interaction between Emma and Bennett so I was pleased that he had a bigger role in this book and they got to spend a bit more time together. I wasn't happy about his continued use of drugs to keep him strong enough to fight Neos but as much as I didn't agree with his actions I could understand why he felt he had no other choice. He loved Emma and didn't want to avoid being with her but he also felt that he needed to be strong enough to protect her and he couldn't see any other option.

I enjoyed seeing more of Sara, Harry and Coby and it was great that they have resolved their issues from the last book and are back in Emma's corner again. I also loved seeing more of the ghostly jocks that have been plaguing Emma since the first book, at least this time they finally offer her some assistance. It was interesting to have the added dynamic of both Emma and Bennett's parents in the story since they have been so conspicuously absent throughout the series. I know Emma's family have tried to explain their actions but personally I haven't forgiven them and I thought it was quite amusing that they felt they had the rights to waltz back in and expect to tell Emma what to do. I thought both families reactions to Emma and Bennett's relationship were realistic but ridiculous considering they had practically abandoned the pair of them!

I was slightly disappointed with the final showdown with Neos because it seemed to be a bit too quick and easy but overall I was pleased with the story. The action towards the end sucked me in and was impossible to put down and there were a couple of twists that I hadn't expected but I would have liked to have felt a bit more risk for Emma and her friends. Overall I've really enjoyed the Haunting Emma series and would definitely recommend it to paranormal fans who like their ghost stories to include romance, action and interesting mythology. I'm looking forward to seeing what Lee Nichols comes up with next!(less)

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May 04, 2012 Liz rated it 4 of 5 stars

4.25/5

Surrender was a great conclusion to the Haunting Emma series. While I wasn’t entirely happy with the ending, I enjoyed it overall, and I’m a little sad the series is over!

Emma was under a lot of pressure in Surrender. Everyone was relying on her to defeat Neos when the time came, and she wasn’t sure she was powerful enough to do it. She kept doubting her abilities and wasn’t confident at all. On top of that, Bennett was getting more addicted to Asarum and was refusing to get off it no matt...more 4.25/5

Surrender was a great conclusion to the Haunting Emma series. While I wasn’t entirely happy with the ending, I enjoyed it overall, and I’m a little sad the series is over!

Emma was under a lot of pressure in Surrender. Everyone was relying on her to defeat Neos when the time came, and she wasn’t sure she was powerful enough to do it. She kept doubting her abilities and wasn’t confident at all. On top of that, Bennett was getting more addicted to Asarum and was refusing to get off it no matter what anyone told him. Emma knew that Bennett was hiding something from her, that he had some sort of plan, but he wouldn’t tell her what it was. Their relationship was getting more and more strained. Bennett was getting worse every time Emma saw him and it was definitely affecting them both. They clearly loved each other but Emma couldn’t stand to see Bennett hurt himself that way and Bennett wasn’t listening to her. So they definitely had a lot of problems. Despite that though, there were still some awesome EmmaxBennett scenes. And by awesome, I mean hilarious. First Bennett’s parents walked in on the two together, then Emma’s parents walked in on them together. I would have felt bad for them both having to experience such embarrassing situations, but I was too busy laughing. It was just so damn funny! They had the worst luck :P.

I didn’t know what to think about Bennett in this book. To some extent I felt really bad for him because all he wanted to do was protect Emma, and he knew that at some point, to be with her, he’d have to lose his powers. At the same time, however, I thought he was being reckless and stupid, and while things did work out in the end, I didn’t agree with the methods he took to ensure they did. He could still be charming at times though, and I loved his romantic scenes with Emma. I am glad the two got to have a happy ending, even if the bits in between were really messed up.

One thing I loved about Surrender was that even though there was a lot of serious and scary stuff going on, there was also still a lot of humour. Harry was as funny as always and I loved reading the banter between him and Emma. He was one of my favourite characters and I think he was a great friend to Emma (even Bennett said so). The ghosts’ conversations with Emma were great to read about too – and Emma herself said or thought some things that were hilarious! Like at the beginning, when she had this realisation about the greatness of bad boys. I was cracking up! :P

My only complaints are that I felt the whole fight with Neos was a little anticlimactic as things happened so quickly, and the ending seemed a little rushed and unbelievable. I love happy endings, but I felt the ending of Surrender was almost a little too happy? What happened just seemed so convenient, and no-one really had to sacrifice anything. I mean, I still liked it and I was glad most people got to be happy, but it seemed a bit unrealistic that everything would turn out so well. Still, I really enjoyed the book overall! Surrender was never boring and was well-paced, and I loved finding out more about the ghostkeepers (especially the bit at the end with The Rake, which was awesome).

Overall, Surrender was a great, compelling read and a fabulous end to a series. Definitely recommend this trilogy to fans of ghost stories and funny characters.(less)

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Jul 18, 2012 Lisa rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: bloomsbury-allen-unwin

Originally posted at Read Me Bookmark Me Love Me

After three books, this much loved series has finally come to a close. The previous book ended with Bennett being addicted to the drug, asarum, and Emma trying to prevent it from tearing apart their relationship. Neos continued on his rampage to destroy the ghostkeepers but the final battle is now just around the corner… I felt that Surrender lacked something I can't put my finger on in the character department, but it still delivered on the humour...more Originally posted at Read Me Bookmark Me Love Me

After three books, this much loved series has finally come to a close. The previous book ended with Bennett being addicted to the drug, asarum, and Emma trying to prevent it from tearing apart their relationship. Neos continued on his rampage to destroy the ghostkeepers but the final battle is now just around the corner… I felt that Surrender lacked something I can't put my finger on in the character department, but it still delivered on the humour and entertainment.

It was interesting watching the romance between Emma and Bennett develop over the series. Their love was initially forbidden because Bennett was her brother's best friend, and then because of the fact that only one ghostkeeper in the relationship could keep their powers. It's been an uphill struggle, with some sweet moments thrown in, but things reach the peak of crazy and confusing in Surrender. One minute, they're making out (and continuously getting walked in on by their parents…awkward…) and in the next they're all angsty with the issue of Bennett's drug addiction. I couldn't help but want to smack him in this book! Yes, he had good intentions but his attitude just didn't sit well with me. Now would be the time to growl at asurum's evil side-effects... As it was the last book, I was expecting them to get back together pretty early on but Nichols does a good job at making us wait! I wanted their love to be stronger and more prominent in this story, but overall I'm pleased with how things turned out for them.

The creep factor gets amped up many notches as Neos becomes desperate and steps up his own game. The gang concludes that he's going to go after his remains so that they can't be destroyed by others. When? Where? Who knows! Everyone's on their tippy toes. A race to find them ensues, people get possessed, Emma has strange visions and Bennett begins keeping (more) secrets. What's everyone up to? Of course, I'm not telling you because you deserve to be kept in the dark too! I really enjoyed the final few fight scenes. As always, they were exciting and had great build up.

Surrender's final chapter is beautiful and very satisfying. Every character gets their shining moment, whether it's a bittersweet farewell or a look at the great things awaiting them, and every little end is tied up neatly. Although it's sad for me to let these wonderful characters go, I'm happy to know that they're all in good places now, wherever that may be in the world. I definitely recommend this series to those who want a fun adventure, even though this last book didn't blow me away ;)(less)

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Dec 16, 2011 Ferdy rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: ghosts

Emma and her fellow ghostkeepers are back in Surrender, the third book in the Haunting Emma trilogy. Surrender starts with the arrival of Bennett's parents who are not pleased to find out that their son is addicted to Asarum (a drug which can increase a ghostkeeper's powers), so they promptly pack him off to get clean, leaving Emma alone.
Emma now under the supervision of Bennett's parents tries to balance school, friends and finding a way to end Neos once and for all. Emma does step up in this...more

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Apr 01, 2012 SJH (A Dream of Books) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: own, paranormal, young-adult, for-review

I'm a massive fan of the Haunting Emma series by Lee Nichols and have eagerly followed Emma's battle to defeat Neos and win the heart of the gorgeous Bennett. She may have achieved the latter but she still has a fight ahead of her to find Neos's ashes and end his reign once and for all.

Emma's story has had so many ups and downs. She's had to deal head on with tragedy, death and loss and has coped with discovering who she really is, as well as being left by her family and learning how to deal wit...more I'm a massive fan of the Haunting Emma series by Lee Nichols and have eagerly followed Emma's battle to defeat Neos and win the heart of the gorgeous Bennett. She may have achieved the latter but she still has a fight ahead of her to find Neos's ashes and end his reign once and for all.

Emma's story has had so many ups and downs. She's had to deal head on with tragedy, death and loss and has coped with discovering who she really is, as well as being left by her family and learning how to deal with ghosts who want her dead. Her one constant throughout the trilogy has been the wonderful Bennett. I adore him so much! Left me assure you now that there's plenty to satisfy fans of Bennett and Emma in 'Surrender'. They know they love each other and want to be together forever but to stay together one of them has to lose their powers. If you're hoping for kisses, then yes there are kisses and lots of them! Without trying to give anything away, they also get the most perfect ending which made me so happy to read.

I love Emma's bravery, her determination and her strength. She treats all her friends and family and the ghosts she's surrounded by with respect. She has some tough choices to make in the book but she always tries to do what's right. Her friends are wonderfully characterised too, including Natalie who becomes like a sister to her, as well as Lukas, Sara and Harry. She may not always have her real family by her side but she can always count on her friends to be there.

The final part of the trilogy tied up all the loose ends and concluded the story brilliantly. Pacy, action-packed and a real page turner, I only wish the book has been longer. I literally devoured it in one sitting! There's no doubt that this series really does have it all. An unbreakable love, a fight between good and evil, mystery, adventure, action and romance. I'm sad that a wonderful adventure is over but I'm so excited to see what Lee Nichols will turn her hand to next. You never know - there might even be a Bennett/Emma sequel at some point in the future where we get to see if they really are living out their happy ever after!
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Sep 26, 2012 Sammee (I Want to Read That) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: for-review-read

I've really enjoyed reading Lee Nichols' Haunting Emma series and the final instalment is a brilliant conclusion to the saga.

The story picks up from where we left off in Betrayal. Neos is still a threat and gaining power, Bennett is using desperate means to gain the power he believes he will need to beat him. And, of course, there is still the problem of ghostkeepers losing their powers if two are together...

One of my favourite aspects of this story is the romance between Emma and Bennett so I r...more

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Dec 07, 2011 Stacy rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: from-publisher-author, teen-book-scene

SURRENDER is the conclusion to The Haunting Emma Trilogy. Emma started the series thinking she was normal not knowing anything about her powers or the world that she was born into. Throughout DECEPTION and BETRAYAL She has grown into a powerful Ghostkeeper. She has had loyal friends and family behind her, has lost people she cared about and has fought on the side of good.

Emma has been a great strong character throughout the series. She was easy to follow along with and connect to. Emma grew into...more

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Jun 01, 2012 Emma (BelleBooks) rated it 4 of 5 stars

It's been a while since I read the first two books in the Haunting Emma series but when Bloomsbury UK offered me a review copy of Surrender I jumped at the chance! It took me a couple of chapters to get back into the plot and remember who everyone was, but it soon all came flooding back to me!

This is the last book in the series. I put off starting it for a while, because I hate when a book series ends, it's like moving to a new city and leaving friends behind.

This time around Emma and her fellow...more

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Mar 23, 2012 Kaitie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: own

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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About Lee Nichols

Lee Nichols is the author of five novels for adults, including the bestselling TALES OF A DRAMA QUEEN. She'll be making her YA debut in 2010 with DECEPTION: A Haunting Emma Novel. Follow her on Twitter at LeeXNichols or Friend her on Facebook at Lee Nichols. http://www.leenicholsbooks.com/

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Quotes from Surrender

“Well, *something's* wrong,' Max said, his brow knit with concern. 'After twenty minutes alone with Bennett, she's still wearing her shirt.” — 5 people liked it

“He crossed toward me, a grin curving his mouth-then he stopped. 'Should I get the other blade?'

I looked at the sword in my hand. 'I'm waiting for the Rake.'

He raised a brow. 'The Rake?'

Oh, right, we'd never talked about him. 'He's a ghost. Your ancestor. The Bennett you're named after.'

'What?' Bennett laughed in surprise. 'Here? When did he show up?'

'Um...a couple days after you brought me here from San Francisco.'

'Why didn't you tell me?'

'He's private. And you're both Bennetts. It'd be like...I don't know. Traveling back in time and meeting yourself.'

'And you call him 'the Rake'?'

'Well, he's all swagger and devilish charm,' I explained.

'In that case, how can you tell us apart?” — 4 people liked it

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Surrender (Haunting Emma #3)

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