One word...wow! Full review to come... 
 Update8/29/13: 
 This was truly an amazing end to an even more amazing series. Ms. Crane has blown my mind with how great of an author she is, and I can't wait to read more from her. Independence picks up right where Defiance left off. This book was slightly different than the previous novels in that there is dual POV. We are treated to both Maggie and Caleb's point-of-view, and it is literally perfect. Dual POV is hard to pull off, and honestly, I wasn't sure how well it would work with this novel. However, have no fear because Ms. Crane manages to pull it off expertly. I loved being able to read from Caleb's viewpoint because it gave us an insight into what he goes through as a significant as well. We see how much he truly cares for Maggie and his family, and the great lengths he would go to in order for everyone to be happy and safe. 
 The characters were perfect and could not have been better written. Maggie has become a strong, confident woman that is not afraid to die for those she loves. She is willing to fight for everyone and stand up for what she believes is right. Honestly, one of my favorite moments in this book was when she finally stood up to Beck (view spoiler)[who treats her like a freak after finding out about Maggie (hide spoiler)]. Caleb is seriously perfect. You couldn't ask for a better guy, and his character also grew over the course of this novel. I loved being able to see inside his world, and to read about his love for Maggie. The secondary characters were still heavily present. They definitely didn't fade into the background. I will truly miss all of them, and it was so tough to say goodbye. However, I'll definitely be seeing them again, as I'll be reading this entire series over and over. 
 This book had me laughing, and was full of witty, sarcastic comments. But, it was also filled with sweet moments between Maggie and Caleb, especially their wedding. I don't really count that as a spoiler because we all knew it was coming. The vows were seriously some of the sweetest things I have ever read in my life, and it just further lends to the fact that these characters are brilliantly written. The vows (as well as Maggie and Caleb's love) just seemed so real and true. Everything fit the characters exactly as how you would imagine. However, that's not to say there weren't some extremely tense moments! The book is still action packed, and the ending is heart-stopping. I was on the edge of my seat until the very end. The story wraps up nicely, and I loved that we were treated to what was going on in the future with the characters. It made the story feel complete and have an end. There was no cliff hangers or dangling story lines; everything concludes perfectly. 
 As you can tell from how often I used the word, the word that describes this book is perfect. Independence is a thrilling conclusion to a brilliant series. This is a must read for any fan of Shelly Crane and any fan of the Significance series. You won't be disappointed! Thank you Ms. Crane for writing such an amazing series that I will treasure forever. Happy reading :)