The Empress: The Diabolic
#2 of 3 in The Diabolic Series
on Goodreads (7,298)
What’s inside...
It’s a new day in the Empire. Tyrus has ascended to the throne with Nemesis by his side and now they can find a new way forward—one where they don’t have to hide or scheme or kill. One where creatures like Nemesis will be given worth and recognition, where science and information can be shared with everyone and not just the elite. But having power isn’t the same thing as keeping it, and change isn’t always welcome. The ruling class, the Grandiloquy, has held control over planets and systems for centuries—and they are plotting to stop this teenage Emperor and Nemesis, who is considered nothing more than a creature and certainly not worthy of being Empress. Nemesis will protect Tyrus at any cost. He is the love of her life, and they are partners in this new beginning. But she cannot protect him by being the killing machine she once was. She will have to prove the humanity that she’s found inside herself to the whole Empire—or she and Tyrus may lose more than just the throne. But if proving her humanity means that she and Tyrus must do inhuman things, is the fight worth the cost of winning it?
Character compass
Nemesis
Tyrus Domitrian
Neveni
Gladdic
Senator Von Pasus
Discussion points
How does Nemesis' struggle with her identity throughout the book compare to times when you've felt unsure about yourself?
What role do you think trust plays in the relationships between characters like Nemesis and Tyrus? Can you think of a time when trust impacted one of your relationships?
The politics and power dynamics in the book are complex. What are some ways that characters seek power or control, and how does this affect their relationships?
Nemesis experiences significant growth and change. How do you think challenges and adversities can lead to personal growth?
The theme of humanity is central in the book. What do you think it means to be human, and how do you see this reflected in Nemesis' actions and decisions?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and draw parallels between the book’s themes and their personal experiences.
Discuss the moral dilemmas that characters face to help your child develop empathy and ethical reasoning.
Explore the book’s depiction of leadership and decision-making to enhance your child’s critical thinking skills.
Relate the science fiction elements to real-world technology and ethics in science to spark your child's interest in STEM fields.
Use the complex relationships in the book as a way to discuss the importance of communication and trust in your child’s own relationships.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of critical thinking
Explanation: Throughout the novel, the protagonist must navigate complex political landscapes and make difficult decisions, which necessitates careful analysis and thought.
Real-World Application: Children can apply critical thinking to solve problems at school or in social settings, weighing the pros and cons before making decisions.
Example Lesson: The value of loyalty and trust
Explanation: Key relationships in the book are built on trust and loyalty, highlighting the importance and impact of these qualities in interpersonal relationships.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the significance of being reliable friends and trusting family members in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Understanding the consequences of one's actions
Explanation: Characters in 'The Empress' face significant consequences based on their decisions, which teaches the reader about accountability.
Real-World Application: Children learn that their actions have consequences, teaching them to think about how what they do could affect others around them.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: The protagonist's journey includes overcoming numerous challenges, emphasizing the power of resilience and perseverance.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to persist through difficulties in their academic or personal lives, understanding that challenges can be overcome with determination.