Book Review: "Artemis Fowl and the Arctic Incident" by Eoin Colfer

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

Artemis Fowl believes his missing father is alive. He's planning a rescue mission when Holly interrupts, accusing him of a crime against The People. Once he is cleared of suspicion, he makes a deal to help them catch the real culprit. In exchange for his services, they have to help rescue his father in Russia.

CAST OF CHARACTERS-SPOILERS

Artemis Fowl seems to have a noble goal this time, saving his father. His character does develop. When Holly is injured, he works hard to help her, showing that he does care about others. Also, in the beginning, it is revealed to Artemis that he does not respect anyone or treat them like equals. This is resolved in the end and tied up nicely with a bow.

Holly Short reluctantly respects Artemis and grows more affectionate with him when she learns of his goal to rescue his father. This shows in a scene where she has to break bad news to him as well as in the final chapters.

Commander Julius Root is in this story as much as the last. His blunt and loud personality is a good contrast to Artemis and Butler.

Butler plays the same role as in the first movie, protecting Artemis and doing all of the physical work. But for a portion of the book, he and Artemis are separated. I feel the book focuses more on Holly and Artemis' relationship.

Mulch Diggums is called on to help sneak into Koboi laboratories. Having lived a life as a recluse, he eventually started stealing again. He lightens up the story with his comedy.

Opal Koboi is a rather cartoonish character. Whenever she had a scene, I found myself cringing. I think perhaps she was supposed to be funny. A woman who acts like a spoiled child. A genius with no morals. Perhaps she was meant to parallel Artemis. But this comparison never occurred to Artemis, nor anyone else in the story. After all, it's clear she is insane, and Artemis is not.

Cudgeon appeared in the first book, and was the one who went over Root's head. After being demoted, he now plots revenge.

Foaly is never in the same scenes as the others bu he still plays a crucial role, like he has previously. Like Mulch, he always has a joke.

SUSPENSE AND FORESHADOWING

There is a scene where we learn that anyone who questions a certain character will be shot in a future scene. And another where Artemis points out how something seems to convenient. Both set up for later scenes and revelations.

There is also a scene where it's revealed that one character plans to kill another. In that same scene, it's revealed that he is unknowingly being recorded. That made it obvious that said character was going to be exposed later on. I thought that was odd to reveal, as it would have been more shocking to keep it a secret and expose it later.

PACING

The pacing is just as good as last time. Again, we shift between Holly and Artemis, and eventually even to Foaly's perspective. And there is a lot of action. Barely do the characters sit still.

COLFER'S HUMOR

Again, I enjoyed most of the humor. The scene at the beginning at Artemis' school was hilarious.

Foaly's interactions with Root as well as Cudgeon are funny.

Mulch always makes me smile with his antics. But Opal is annoying, and not in a way that I believe was intended. Perhaps Colfer thought if we found her obnoxious, that would make her a good villain because readers would despise her. I didn't hate her for being a great villain. I hated her because she wasn't even a decent villain.

NO GOOD VILLAIN?

You might think if i don't care for the villain, does it ruin the book? No, actually. Because Opal is not in a large portion of the book and the main characters don't figure out who is behind things until much later in the story.

NOT AN ACTION HERO-SPOILERS

Like the last book, Artemis is the brains, but not the action. But there are plenty of times where he proves himself. Once regarding healing another character, and a second where Mulch requires his help, even though he has been told to stay put by Butler.

This is a surprisingly good role for a hero, as Artemis never feels overpowered, as some do. He may be a genius, but he needs assistance. Foaly is shown to be almost as smart, and just as helpful. While Holly is brave, Butler is strong, and Root is willing to risk his own life.

CLIMAX-SPOILERS

Our heroes must first defeat Opal and Cudgeon. It's kind of predictable how Foaly gets them to turn against each other but I didn't mind. It's what happens afterwords that shows how the characters' relationships have changed. Holly helps Artemis rescue his father. I found that scene far more interesting than anything having to do with Opal.

CONCLUSION

Colfer successfully helps develop Artemis and also develops a friendship, not just a begrudging respect between Holly and him. The humor is enjoyable, ignoring Opal of course. There is plenty of action and good pacing and Cudgeon is an okay villain. I give “The Arctic Incident” four stars.

Book Review: "Artemis Fowl" by Eoin Colfer

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

When twelve year old genius, Artemis Fowl discovers proof of faeries he plots to kidnap one. In return, he wants gold, but he gets more trouble than he anticipated. The elf he kidnaps isn't too happy about it, and she plans on an escape. Not to mention the RECON team sent to free her.

CAST OF CHARACTERS

Artemis Fowl is an Irish son of two exceptionally wealthy parents. He is also too smart for his own good. Before his father went missing, he was involved with various legal endeavors. From him, Artemis has learned his lack of morals.

Holly Short is the only female in her squad. But she hasn't made it easy for herself, as she is prideful and often reckless. Her tendency to ignore orders often gets her in trouble.

Butler is a Eurasian man who has been Artemis' body guard since he was born, twelve years ago. His family has been trained as body guards for centuries. Although Butler recognizes the genius of his employer, he often worries about his plans.

Juliet Butler is Butlers younger sister. She is a teenager obsessed with wrestling. Like her brother, she has been trained in various forms of martial arts. But unlike him, she lets her emotions control her.

Mulch Diggums is a troll that has spent most of his life as a thief, in and out of prison. As such, he is familiar with both Holly and Root. He is smarter than he seems and has an odd sense of humor.

Commander Julius Root seems rather harsh with Holly. But he is actually quite fond of her. He is a politically incorrect guy who doesn't take any crap and tells it like it is.

Foaly is a tech genius and a centaur. He has had a long relationship with Root and enjoys teasing him.

PACING

The pacing is good because the story flips between different view points. At first from just Artemis and Holly, but eventually to Root and Mulch as well. Even to Juliet once. Also, there is a lot of action. Not to mention a few mysteries for the reader to figure out. Like how Artemis is going to escape the time field.

EVIL MUD MEN

The “people” as they are known as, had to live underground to escape mankind. It would make sense that some hatred would still remain. Unfortunately, this bigotry at times makes both Holly and Root rather annoying.

They seem to think all “mud men” destroy nature on purpose, and are generally evil. I do wish that Colfer had simply shown how irrational Holly's hatred was, as the current descendants had nothing to do with the past.

POLITICS

There is a small amount of Colfer's political views. No doubt, the hatred that "The People" have for the mud men due to their destruction of the environment is his own perspective (as I spoke of already). But I have to mention there is another scene where Artemis destroys a whaling ship, and awkwardly makes a speech against the immoralities. Perhaps it was meant to make him seem likable, but it just made me laugh at the stupidity. Whaling is wrong. But kidnapping and demanding money is fine.

Also, since Holly is the only girl in her line of work, she basically says everyone is sexist, which means the culture of the People is a whole may be sexist. Again, most likely reflecting Colfer's views.

These elements are silly and small and shouldn't destroy anyone's enjoyment of the story.

THE WORLD

The world that Colfer has created is detailed and full of different races (elves, sprites, centaurs, trolls and goblins) as well as a history. Although the history presented is rather vague. It feels as though there will be plenty opportunities to expand it in future books.

Also, one unique aspect of the story that it blends two genre's together. Although the creatures are from fairy tales and the use of magic is referenced throughout, there is enough techno babble to make it feel like a scifi.

A VILLAIN AS OUR HERO-SPOILERS

An interesting aspect to the story is the villain is our hero. We know Artemis is in the wrong, but he is fascinating enough to keep our interest and sympathetic enough for us to hope he changes. His mother is revealed early on, letting his mask of coldness slip away.

And along the way, his conscience bothers him. For example, when he realizes that Holly is a girl, he suddenly questions himself. He hadn't expected a female, and some sense of chivalry and the masculine extinct to protect those weaker then him, sneaks through.

Also when he lies and says that Holly has been imprisoned for three days and he used a truth serum on her. It's hard not to like a character who doubts himself so often, even if he pretends to know it all.

COLFER'S HUMOR

Although the book is clearly action mixed with science fiction and fantasy, humor is sprinkled without. It's used wisely though, without humor coming in at inappropriate times and destroying the gravity of the situation. Mulch is clearly a comical character, while the banter between Foaly and Root is amusing as well. For the most part, I enjoyed it, with few exceptions. One being the two brothers in LEPrecon. I don't usually like characters who are so stupid as to feel fake.

DON'T KILL?

There is a moment in the book I found odd. Butler has to fight off an being that seems to have animal-like intelligence. It tries to kill Butler and his sister. So to kill him just seems like self defense. But Holly steps in and demands he stops. It felt like moral grandstanding that came out of nowhere.

The beast could have easily been killed before while fighting him off. I hardly think Holly would have objected then. Perhaps a sense of kinship between Butler and Holly was supposed to be the goal. But I think Holly healing Butler and relying on him would have sufficed.

CLIMAX-SPOILERS

When someone in the LEPrecon goes over Roots head, suddenly there is trouble. Root, Holly and Artemis have to learn to work together. This changes the dynamic of the story, where it had previously been Artemis and Butler versus Root and Holly, now its all of them versus a new enemy. This helps the characters learn to respect those which were previously their enemies.

CONCLUSION

Colfer creates an original story with lots of action. The characters are distinct and likable enough to want to see them change and grow. He's careful to make sure that Artemis is sympathetic, even though he is in the wrong for the majority of the story. And the comic elements are usually enjoyable. I give “Artemis Fowl” four stars.

Book Review: "The Star of Kazaan" by Eva Ibbotson

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

Annika is an orphan girl who loves her life in Vienna with her adopted family. But she still daydreams of her mother showing up and claiming her one day. But when this happens she gets a life she didn't expect. And a mystery that needs to be solved.

CAST OF CHARACTERS

Annika is the main character. She has grown up in Vienna with three professors, and their two maids. She loves her city, animals and cooking. She is kind, a little naive, and grateful for her life.

Zed is the stableboy who works at Annika's new home. He loves Rocco, the one horse he takes care of. He is also an orphan, and unsure about his place in the word. He is descended from gypsies.

Hermann is Frau Edeltraut's son. He dreams of going to a military academy and spends every day going through his routines, like he would if he attended the school.

Pauline & Stefan are Annika's friends in Vienna. Although they are not in much of the book, they both play crucial roles.

Frau Edeltraut is Annika's mother, who takes her back to Germany with her. She is strict with Annika about not acting like a servant (no cooking or cleaning) but does seem to care about her.

Ellie & Sigrid are the two woman who work for the professors. They found Annika abandoned as a baby and brought her to their home and place of work: the professors' home.

Professor Emil, Gertrude, & Julius are the professors that adopted Annika.

La Rondine is the neighbor girls great-aunt. Annika gets paid to look after her and the two become fast friends. She reveals her past by telling Annika stories.

PACING

The pacing is slower, but the story is not an action story, more of a mystery. Ibbotson takes her time, showing us how Annika was found in a church, and then revealing Vienna to us. She paints a beautiful picture, then introduces Annika's friends. And although it is not until chapter five that a crucial part of the story starts, it didn't bother me that it took four chapters to get there. And it's not until chapter ten that we get to meet her mother.

CHARACTER ROLES

Most every character had a role to play that was crucial to the plot. It made the story feel like a well put together puzzle.

Pauline, a side character barely in the story, goes to investigate and gets crucial information about Annika's mother. I was surprised to find myself rooting for her when I learned about her fears. I barely knew her at all, and yet I really wanted her to succeed.

Gudrun, who seems superfluous, tells the professors where Annika has been taken, when no one else will.

Stefan, who is probably in the story the least, makes a crucial decesion when helping to free Annika.

Ellie the maid, is the one who urges everyone to find Annika when they want to give up.

Loremarie, the spoiled neighbor girl, reveals to Annika that her great-aunt's trunk has been stolen.

Hector the dog finds an item that pushes Annika to learn more about that trunk.

Professore Gertrude's special instrument is crucial to freeing Annika.

Annika's new uncle reveals information about La Rondine.

Zed retrieves and reveals crucial information.

CHARACTER LIKABILITY

Annika is definitely one of the most favorite heroines that I have read. She is selfless and loving, but not perfect. Her naivete is probably her biggest flaw. It really hinders her investigation about the trunk, and eventually her mother. But she does sometimes have selfish thoughts, like when she wants to hit Loremarie but thinks about the fuss everyone would make. She is perhaps too practical in that way and not yet morally developed.

Zed is perhaps the opposite of Annika in his personality. He has seen a lot more of the world than she has. He had a father he remembers, but lost him. Then had a father figure, then lost him. And has had to deal with the decline of the barn he works for as well as witness the abuse of animals, such as the horse Rocco, and the aftermath of Hector, the dog.

Not only are both of these main characters likable, they compliment each other as well.

IBBTOSON'S CHARM & WIT

Just like in “Journey to the River Sea”, Ibbotson weaves her charm into each character she makes. Somehow, she manages to reflect things we have all witnessed in life. The greedy relatives; The spoiled child; The forgotten, elderly relative; The abused animal.

When it comes to Ibbotson, she chooses the location of the story and immerses the reader in it. I found myself wishing I could see the Lipizzaner horses myself. And even her minor characters prove to be amusing.

THE VILLAINS

I found it interesting that even though we eventually learn who the villains are, they never come across as really hateful people. There was never a scene, even after they were discovered, where they shed their masks, so to speak. They just seemed like selfish people who were unaware of those they were hurting.

THE FATE OF ROCCO-SPOILERS

There is a scene where Annika rediscovers a letter she forgot about and rushes to Zed's aid. It seems as though Rocco is going to be taken from him. But Annika has evidence that could save the horse. But it turns out that they were not trying to take the horse anyway.

The whole scene felt a little odd to me. I wanted Annika to be able to save Rocco, so when it turns our she didn't, I felt deflated. Like, oh? Why did this scene happen then? I think it was supposed to be twist that Rocco wasn't being taken away, but I felt like the letter with its contents unknown until then, would have been twist enough.

CONCLUSION

Ibbotson's story is full of charming and amusing characters as well as a beautiful backdrop of Vienna. It's a mystery that takes its time to enfold, but where every part is savored. Every character has a role, even the minor ones. The villains are not over the top, but quite believable and the ending is rewarding. I give “The Star of Kazaan” four stars.

Book Review: "Buried Fire" by Jonathan Stroud

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

When Michael falls asleep on a hill, he wakes up thinking he has had sun stroke. But eventually he realizes he as a new ability: he can see people's souls. Soon he exposes his brother Stephen to the same source. The two of them start to realize there may be more bad than good that comes from it. Especially when others with the same abilities are revealed. Not to mention what lives under the ground of their town.

CAST OF CHARACTERS

Michael is one of of the three main characters. He is the younger brother to Stephen. He receives the ability first, and we see how it effects him pretty fast.

Stephen is the older brother and one of the main characters. Through him we learn how Michael is changing, not just with his new abilities, but his personality.

Sarah is Stephen and Michael's big sister. They have lived with her since the death of their parent. She struggles with being a sister as well as being their guardian.

Tom is the reverend of the local church and a friend of Sarah's. Neither of the brothers like him, and call him “the pope” behind his back. Because he is so young and originally from the town, he is sometimes treated as an outsider. His role in the story if first as a researcher and eventually as an ally.

Cleeves is a youth group leader that basically no one can stand.

PACING

The story is more suspense and mystery than it is action. But the story is paced well by switching between Stephen, Tom and Michael. And at one point, even Sarah. Also, it's to be noted that the story takes place in only a few days, which rather awed me, as so much is happening.

Michael alone might have been overwhelming to a reader, as he was clearly becoming the villain. But because we see the other perspectives, we are not constantly screaming “No, no, no!” at Michael. That would have grown old, fast.

ORIGINALITY

One thing that the story really has going for it is the originality. I never would have thought of souls being portrayed as diamonds shaped animal heads.

Also, the idea that the abilities themselves would eventually corrupt someone was interesting too. In most books, magic and other abilities only have negative consequences if you don't know how to use them properly. But there is no way to avoid the evils that come along with these abilities.

PHILOSOPHY

There are certain discussions between Stephen and Michael that I found fascinating. Michael starts to view the souls as the most important things, because they are so beautiful. While dismissing the shades inside them that reveal the personality. He thinks of them like food to devour. And he is annoyed that no one else can see them and appreciate them like he can. He belittles the very owners of those souls, as though he is more important.

It's near impossible not to draw symbolism with the dragon being the source of a great evil. With Michael thinking he can use the dragon as a power source, not realizing it's far too evil to be controlled. And that he himself, instead of controlling it, will end up being controlled.

BEFORE THE GIFT

Before Michael gets the ability, we really don't know anything about him. We do get to see a little bit of Stephen though. I do think it might have helped the story, to contrast with who they were becoming. We have Stephen to react to Michael, letting us know he is changing. But it would have been nice to see how they treated each other, as well as their sister, before this. I understand that this way, the actual story starts right off the bat, and we are not waiting around. But I felt a short introduction would have been helpful.

Also, it's only mentioned in passing about their parents dying and their sister taking care of them. I would have liked to hear more about their feelings and how they have adapted since then. It's hinted at throughout the story that things have not been going so smoothly.

MICHAEL'S EVOLUTION

Although we don't get to see who he was before the incident, we do get to see how Michael changes. His views change, and often times in the beginning, he feels convicted of his actions.

And we do sense that this isn't who Michael normally is, because he reactions seem so out of proportion. Like when he reacts so angrily to Stephen receiving the same abilities as him (even when he was the one who led him to get them). Or how viciously he attacks his sister, who was clearly just worried about him.

Also how inconsistent he is in his thoughts and the ability to admit he's changed. It's almost as though you are witnessing someone become a cult member.

STROUD'S WRITING

Stroud has an amazing way with words, not mention an amazing vocabulary. While reading I regularly underlined parts of sentences, and sometimes even whole sentences. I just loved the way he phrased things, especially the first chapter, where Michael is unconscious and attains the abilities. So much is happening, and yet nothing is. At the end, when he says “Michael wakes up”, I was like, all of that happened while he was asleep? It was artistic but not flowery.

CLIMAX

The climax is the most action-packed part of the story. Even before the dragon arises, we see Michael, and the others with the gift become violent and pursue Tom and Stephen. My only complaint is that the book ends the minute the dragon is killed. I really wanted to see Michael's reaction afterwards, to what he had almost done. We assume he is redeemed, as once the dragon is released he see's everything was a lie. But he doesn't actually accomplish anything himself in any attempt to change.

CONCLUSION

Stroud creates an original story full of suspense and mystery. Not to mention a story with depth that you don't often get in stories aimed at young adults. Viewing Michael change is fascinating and horrifying at the same time while the pacing is good because of the constant changes in the characters' perspectives. I give “Buried Fire” Four stars.

Book Review: "Montmorency" by Eleanor Updale

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

After he almost died, thief Montmorency was put back together by a genius surgeon while in prison. Years later, he has hatched a plan to gain wealth from all of the knowledge he has gained from his times being the subject of scientific lectures. He'll use the sewer system of London to get around. He needs an accomplice but has no one he trusts. Suddenly he has an alter ego and finds himself split into two lives: one as the wealthy Montmorency, and the other as the thief, Scarper.

CAST OF CHARACTERS

Montmorency is underestimated and is believed to be just a dumb criminal. But he is smart and takes in everything around him, as well as a skilled actor who acquires the ability to imitate others. He desires to eventually live his life as a gentleman and leave his life of crime behind.

Scarper is Montmorency's other persona. The servant to Montmorency and the thief who stockpiles stolen items in a shoddy little apartment. Unlike Montmorency, Scarper likes to steal merely for the challenge in it.

George Fox-Selwyn is a gentleman that Montmorency saves. He invites him to a gentleman's club and the two eventually spend a lot of time together.

Doctor Farcett is the man who operated on Montmorency in prison and saved his life. Eventually he becomes a threat to Montmorency and his secret identity.

Cissie is the daughter of the man who owns the hotel that Montmorency stays at. She is obnoxiously childlike, hounding him and trying to get his attention.

PACING

The story is one more of a suspense than action. It isn't even until chapter nine that Montmorency gets to leave prison. Although one never feels the time is wasted, as we get to see, step by step, how Montmorency plans on how to become both Scarper and Montmorency. And sometimes the suspense is forgotten, as I enjoyed watching Montmorency learn to be a gentleman, it never really felt like a threat was there.

JUST MONTMORENCY

There are a few side characters, but no one who is consistently in the story. And Montmorency never gains any confidantes. I desperately wished for someone to learn about his double life, or to at least suspect it.

On the positive side, Montmorency is really charming. From the beginning, it's easy to sympathize for him, as he is a victim of abuse from fellow prisoners and those that absorb him in scientific lectures. But he shows himself to be intelligent and hardworking, not to mention the childlike innocence and eagerness he reveals in learning how to be a gentleman.

JEKYLL & HYDE

I thought it was an interesting aspect of the book that Montmorency decided to create two individuals: Montmorency the gentleman and Scarper the thief. We never learn his real name, and eventually I started to believe he was mostly Montmorency. But it seems like Montmorency is his future and Scarper is his past.

Eventually he wishes to stop stealing and just stay Montmorency, but Scarper and his old habits won't go away. I thought it was very reminiscent of the classic novel, “Jekyll & Hyde.” I fully expected Scarper to be his undoing, and although he does cause Montmorency some trouble when he is injured, he wasn't the detriment that Hyde was to Jekyll.

I did want a happily ever after, so in that way I was pleased with the ending, I just felt Scarper wasn't nearly the threat that Montmorency made him out to be. Also, it's never spelled out that Scarper is almost like another personality. There was just a few vague references that made me pause and take note.

STRUCTURE

The book is set up into a few portions. The first is Montmorency's life in prison. From there he makes plans on what he intends to do, and how to do it. From then on he starts preparing for his life as Montomroncy, by his thefts. When he becomes Montmorency, he goes back and forth between the worlds, eventually wanting to let go of Scarper completely.

WHOSE THE THREAT?-SPOILERS

At first there seems two threats to Montmorency: the cops finding out about him, and Doctor Farcett.

But the cops never really feel like a threat. The Farcett problem is eventually resolved, and when another prisoner takes the blame for Montmorency's crime, I started to wonder if anyone was a threat to him. Farcett reappears, and it seems like Updale was setting him up to finally be a real threat. When this flopped, I wondered what could possibly happen to Montmorency now.

That is the main problem I had with this book. I wish there were one cop we had met and got to see him investigate and eventually come to suspect Montmorency. I think this would have made the story so much better. There is one scene where it goes back and forth between Montmorency and the cops as an article about the thefts is read. It felt awkward, as we never get to see the characters who are the police, ever again.

It would have been better to have had various threats to Montmorency, and eventually when one would peter out, a new one would come along. That way our main character was never in the clear and the reader got the feeling that we could get caught anytime.

THE WORLD

As London is one of my favorite places for stories to take place (I love the Victorian time period as well) I was pleased to find the story gave a detailed, sometimes dark, and sometimes charming world. We see the prison system and the abuse the prisoners suffer at the hands of it, as well as a flawed legal system. We saw the beauty of the opera, the oddity of the gentleman's club and the progress of the city with it's sewers.

CLIMAX

One of my main critiques is that there isn't really a climax. Scarper sneaks into an embassy on a bet, to gather information and attain proof that he was there. There isn't really much danger, after all, if he gets found out, no one will know he was responsible for all of those other thefts.

CONCLUSION

I found Montmorency charming and fell in love with him. I fully wanted him to succeed and create a new life. The world of London was interesting and I loved watching Montmorency learn about the life of a gentleman. But eventually I started to realize there wasn't any real chance that he would be caught, as the police seemed of little consequence. I give “Montmorency” three stars.

Book Review: Fablehaven Series Overview

OVERVIEW

What I did and didn't like about the series as a whole. More spoilers, and less vague criticisms (so if you haven't read the whole series yet then skip this). What I wished would have been different. I tried to start out with what I liked first, then what I didn't like, although it kind of got all mixed up.

CHARACTER LIKABILITY

Both Soren and Kendra and likable and distinct. They were a good contrast to each other. Seth was goofy, sarcastic, naive and reckless. Kendra was patient, hesitant, serious and studious.

It was easier to like Kendra than Seth many times, mainly because Seth kept ignoring everyone, somehow forgetting that he could get himself and others killed. The scene where he saw a baby on the roof in book one was so bad.

Kendra manages to stay out of the Mary Sue trope because she constantly doubts herself and hesitates. Although it would have been nice if she had made a big mistake, so as to even her and Seth out a bit. Although I don't think she should have been able to wield Vasilis like Seth did.

THE WORLD OF FABLEHAVEN

The world is essentially my favorite aspect. It is the main reason I like the series. I forgave the lack of growth and personality in so many characters, because of it.

I loved the pond of naiads and the boardwalk. I loved the stubborn pride of the centaurs (which I wish developed by the way). And I loved the arrogance and beauty of the dragons.

Ephira was one big disappointment of mine, as I really wanted to know more about her, maybe even see her redeemed.

The revenant was on of the creepiest monsters I have ever read. That and the scene with Seth and all of the undead were two of my favorites. I also loved the wall of totem poles and the giant frog. The scene in book two at the mortuary is also on my favorites.

HUMOR

Another area where Mul shines is his sense of humor. Seth has more one liners that I can count. The two satrys are often great comic relief. Even Hugo can be unintentionally funny. When Seth tries to make excuses for the fact that he actually read a book, I found it hilarious.

LENA & PATTON-SPOILERS

The romantic relationship between these two was one of my favorite aspects of the series. Not that was super deep, but it was sweet. It showed how sacrifices had to be made for relationships, like how Lena had to watch Patton age and die while she still lived. As well as Lena sacrificing herself and Patton knowing about it, yet still having to go back in time to live out the rest of their relationship.

GOOD AND EVIL

I liked how Mul tried to explain how magical creatures are different than humans in book three. I found it very original and I wish there had been more discussion about it. Specifically the disagreement between Grandpa Sorenson and Coulter regarding if they had real free will. It showed hints of depth that was never fulfilled.

CHARACTER GROWTH-SPOILERS

The problem when it comes to Seth is simply that he never develops. He keeps making huge mistakes that involve ignoring warnings and rules. And the constant push that it's not his fault, so that he never faces any real consequences, gets maddening. It's as if the only way to move the story along and face new problems, was for him to be stupid. One real part where he shines though is when he thinks that Kendra is dead, but it's just her stingbulb that died. I wish there were more scenes that like, and I wish it had effected him longer.

Perhaps if the story had taken places with months or years in between each book, instead of a matter of weeks as it usually did. But even without time to help him grow, how many near death experiences does it take for one kid to grow up?

When it comes to Kendra, I suppose she does grow, but I felt she had less things to overcome. She felt the most vulnerable in the first book to me. Even when she finds out the truth about Gavin being a liar, her reaction is more amusing than moving. I would have preferred a horrified and broken spirit, like she had in the first book when Mendigo was chasing her. And although there was a supposed affect to Gavin lying to her, basically that she no longer trusts people, it's only mentioned in the beginning of the last book. So it doesn't feel important. After all, she falls head over heels for Bracken almost instantly.

TOO MANY CHARACTERS?

I found it odd that Kendra and Seth both had such strong personalities, and yet everyone else is basically a cardboard cut-out of a character. At first this didn't bother me, mainly for two reasons. The first, the world was so detailed and unique. The second was that in the first two books, there just isn't that many side characters. It didn't bother me that Tanu, Coulter and Dale didn't much have personality, because it was just the three of them. After all, Vanessa has a strong personality. And so did the Sphinx. They kind of made up for it. Not to mention Patton and Lena.

I kept waiting for Gavin to progress but he never did. Because of this, the relationship between him and Kendra never felt like an actual relationship. Just a slight crush.

In the end, I think there should have been less mentor-like characters (who were never really mentors) and more characters that were equals to Seth and Kendra. I would have loved to see Kendra in a friendship with someone of her own sex. She is obvious kinda geeky and it would be nice to see how she would react to a girly girl. We get a small hint of that with Vanessa, but only at the first meeting.

And to see Seth with a friend his age would be nice as well. Even an older, big brother figure. Vanessa almost played that for Kendra (but not really). I wish Warren had played some sort of big brother role, but it just wasn't there.

DEATHS

I liked how Mul wasn't afraid to show there were consequences in this world and that it was dangerous (unless you were Seth, I mean). Lots of characters die. My only problem was I never felt much simply because I barely knew the character, or the character had spent enough time around, I just didn't care about them. Again, the other problem was that Seth never seemed to grasp this, even if the reader did. So his constant recklessness contradicted everything else the author was trying to tell us about the world.

WORTH READING?

In the end, I do think the whole series is worth reading. The last two books are not so bad as to make you wish you never read the series.

What I liked: Seth and Kendra were distinct characters, the world and creatures of Fablehaven's originality, the use of humor and Lena and Patton's relationship.

What I disliked: Seth never developing or facing real consequences for his actions and too many characters that I didn't care about (no personalities).

I give the Fablehaven series three stars.

Book Review: "Keys to the Demon Prison" by Brandon Mul

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

The gate to the demon prison Zyzyxx is about to be opened. Seth and Kendra both are trying to stop it but they can't do it alone. They need the help of old allies and new friends.

CHARACTER GROWTH

Kendra is not sure she can trust anyone since what happened in the last book. Although she suddenly changes her mind when she meets Bracken. She seems more confident as the book goes on, making sure she is not left out of anything.

Seth's finally development involves him rectifying a massive mistake he makes. It happens pretty fast in the story, and a part of me was rooting for him to be right for once. But he wasn't, which is consistent with all the other books and Grandpa Sorenson's view on evil.

I encountered another familiar problem. When Seth makes the biggest mistake he has made yet, he is again, reassured that it wasn't his fault. No really. Coulter says he is a good boy and was just showing mercy (and ignoring the advice of everyone around him). While Patton says he would have done the same because apparently he's an idiot too. I was so frustrated to see nothing has changed.

NEW CHARACTERS

Bracken is a prisoner that the Sphinx keeps at his secret lair. He becomes an ally to Seth and eventually becomes close to Kendra. He is thousands of years old but appears to be in his late teens.

Nagi Luna is a demon who the Sphinx has teamed up with. But she seems to have no loyalties to him.

Vince is a new character that helps in the first mission of the book. He isn't in the story long enough to develop any personality.

PACING

Pacing is decent. We get a small chapter in the beginning before getting straight to the mission. From there there is plenty of action that eventually slows down and then speeds up again. Eventually the story splits off with the perspectives of Seth and Kendra, each on their own. This helps keep the story moving.

DEATHS OF SIDE CHARACTERS

There are a few new characters that are introduced. One is barely in the book before she leaves and then is revealed to have died. I wanted to feel awful for what could have been an amazing character but I just didn't care.

When a second new characters dies, he was in the book slightly longer, and the way he died was tragic. The affect of it horrified me...but I still didn't know the character enough to care about him personally. It was more the way he died that got a reaction out of me.

Two other characters die that we don't really know. I didn't really care.

FORGOTTEN CHARACTERS

There are plenty of characters that have been introduced throughout the series: Mara, Dale, Coulter, Trask, Warren, Elise, Tanu, ect. Some characters I felt initially had importance, and even personalities. Other didn't even have personalities to begin with. Mara, Trask and Elise come to mind. But I feel like all of them were abandoned.

THE PHILOSOPHY OF EVIL

If you remember previously, I discussed Grandpa Sorenson's view on demons and other dark creatures. He thought their nature was to be evil and they had no real free will of their own to decide to be good. I never quite liked this view because it meant the villains of the story were not really bad, they were just following their instincts.

The idea that they had no free will didn't appeal to me, especially since they are clearly smarter than animals. I shouldn't have been surprised when this idea was consistent but a part of me wanted him to rethink the whole thing. It would have made the story less predictable and Seth seem less stupid.

KENDRA'S STORY-SPOILERS

Eventually Kendra goes on a mission with a few others to protect the last of the Eternals, people who can live forever and are important to the Demon Prison. But honestly, I had to wonder why this was important to the plot. Both attempts fail so nothing is really gained in this venture. Was it so Kendra could get to know Bracken better?

Seth, in contrast actually accomplishes quite a lot, getting a new sword and finding out how to get to the demon prison. Not to mention bringing along three people as allies that otherwise would not have been there.

BRACKEN & KENDRA

Throughout the book it is hinted at that Kendra has a crush on Bracken. I get it, she had that whole thing with Gavin last time, and we want her to have a happy relationship. But Bracken is supposed to be thousands of years old. I know he is supposed to be around her age in his years, but I never quite believed he was old as he was.

There is one scene where he rallies the troops where he seems quite wise, but other than that, not so much. If he has seen centuries of life and witnessed how culture and people have changed, I would think he would have a much more detached air about him (or at least different ideas about modern culture). But he jokes and talks like an actual teenager from the same time period as everyone else.

And in the last pages, Kendra reveals her thoughts for becoming an eternal so she can be with him forever. I wanted to laugh it was so absurd. She has only known him for a few weeks.

THE SPHINX

There is a scene where we learn the Sphinx's history and where he tries to convince Seth he is not evil. I found it interesting, although his arguments for opening the prison were not very convincing to me. I don't quite care for the scene where the villain tries to convince the hero to join him. There is never any chance the hero will and the reader never buys it if the character even considers it.

I liked learning about the Sphinx, so I found it puzzling that later on he is a mere side character, even in the climax. And I didn't find his fate quite believable. I get it, this is a kids book, but it just came off as naive and stupid to me.

AMAZING PLACES

I would be remiss if I didn't mention the originality of the many places that Seth and Kendra visit. The various parts of the Dreamstone were interesting and unique. The giant wall of totem poles was a cool concept. The room of zombies was creepy.

In one scene, when Kendra has to go through an area with dangerous fruit that tempts her, the rationalizations she uses are actually convincing. I had to wonder if she was really going to give in.

We get to see new creatures as well, like leprechauns and harpies. There are things I really enjoyed.

LOOSE ENDS

Some loose ends are tied, such as who sent Kendra the knapsack and the stingbulb when she was kidnapped by the Sphinx. But a lot of things feel awkward. It's randomly mentioned that Vanessa and Warren have a relationship now. No mention of when or how that happened. Or even why. It's just thrown in there. Newel and Doren's constant joking is funny, until we get to the climax when it just makes the gravity of the situation disappear.

CLIMAX-SPOILERS

It all accumulates in an all out battle as the demons pour out of zyzyxx. I felt that Seth defeated his opponent far too fast and the discussion they had beforehand was shallow and short. Also, it bothered me that Kendra was able to wield his sword. I know she needed to have her own role, but I felt that being fairy kind should have given her some abilities. Did she need to fight too? Maybe her role should have been something other than a warrior.

The twist at the end was interesting, as no one but Bracken and the fairy queen were in on it.

CONCLUSION

I love Mul's humor and I was smiling so many times throughout this book. The places we visit and the missions are often rather unique. But Seth refuses to develop, and others still make excuses for him. Kendra's mission felt like a waste of time and her relationship with Bracken felt unreal to me. Not to mention new characters and old ones alike seem to have no importance or presence at all. I give “Keys to the Demon Prison” three stars.

Book Review: "Sign of the Dove" by Susan Fletcher

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

The sequel to “Dragon's Milk” follows Lyf, Kaeldra's younger sister. When Kaeldra saved her sister by giving her dragon's milk, she also gave her green eyes and the ability to communicate with birds. When the Queen's soldiers come and threaten Lyf's safety she must go stay with her big sister, her husband and their son. That is, until they get separated and Lyf finds some young draclings who need protecting.

CAST OF CHARACTERS

Lyf is only eleven years old, quite younger than the heroines of the other books. Subjectively speaking, I would have preferred it if she had been older. But objectively speaking, Fletcher does a good job developing her, just like she did to Kaeldra and Kara. From the beginning she has the desire to protect Owyn, which endears her to the reader, even if it becomes obvious she is much more selfish than her predecessors.

Spens is the son of a woman who helps rescue Kara and tend to her. He eventually leads her safely out of the swamp and spends the remainder of Lyf's journey with her. He is slightly shy but also brave.

Owyn is the red-haired son of Kaeldra and Jeorg. He is bold, persistent and stubborn. But he is also a loving and happy child. Lyf notes that he seems to have a special relationship with the draclings.

LOTS OF SIDE CHARACTERS

One thing to note is that besides Owyn, there are really no other main characters. There are plenty of side characters, like Jeorg, Kaeldra's husband. Nysian; Miryiam's husband; Alys the innkeeper and Yanil's wife. Not to mention Kymo the harpist and Yanil himself. Most characters act as guides for Lyf and don't stick around very long.

This perhaps is not very different from the previous book, where the girls mainly develop relationships with animals. Although Kaeldra had three draclings and Kara only had Skava the bird. It's quite a contrast to Lyf's thirteen draclings.

And while Kara had Corwyn, Rath and eventually Kazan as friends, Lyf has no real relationships.

THE DRACLINGS

There are thirteen draclings, which might hinder the closeness Lyf feels to them, as opposed to Kaeldra and her three draclings. But they prove to be amusing and charming, just as they have before. And they do help her grow.

An important part is when a dragon egg hatches and Lyf realizes it needs a dragon's milk to survive. Perhaps for the first time, getting the dracling to a mother becomes more important than reuniting with Kaeldra.

LYF'S DEVELOPMENT

Lyf starts out as as fearful and rather pampered, just wanting to return Owyn to to his mother. And even when the draclings enter the picture she just wants it all to be over. She doesn't care for them at first, eventually learning to love them against her will.

There are multiple moments of introspection. Once where she realizes she is expected to keep the draclings and head north with them. She only wants to be free of the burden, and instead be taken cared of. In her immaturity, she resents Kaeldra, knowing she is not brave like her older sister.

Another time, a character may have died to protect the draclings, and Lyf realizes she would not be risking her life for them if she had the choice.

Lastly, a conversation she has with Spens helps her realize she is changing. She says she admires how he is trying to help her when he doesn't have to, and he says she is doing the same thing for the draclings when she could give them up.

THE DEATH OF A SIDE CHARACTER

When one character vanishes, Lyf wonders if that character has drowned. Once again, she is on her own. This is rather important for her, as she is forced to grow and once again be the sole protector of both Owyn and the draclings.

But I didn't like that we actually don't witness the character's death. We could have easily seen her go under the water or be swept away. Instead it is merely mentioned near the end of the book. I understand she was just a side character, but I still felt it was a disservice not to see her moments before her death. Perhaps Fletcher felt it would have been too much for an already fragile Lyf to handle.

SIDE STORY

There is a side story that explains what happened to Kaeldra and Jeorg. It's important to the story but I just didn't care for the way it was done. It changes the story from happening in the present to suddenly being told by someone else. I just found it an awkward format. Perhaps Fletcher felt this way we would be reminded that Lyf was still the main character. But the interludes where almost never more than a page long, so it would be hard to forget that.

It presented a villain who betrays them, but he is never actually confronted. Since we learn he was the betrayer right off the bat, I expected Lyf to develop to the point where she would confront him. But he was pushed to the side, and instead it's the Queen's soldiers who are the real threat. But seeing how the book ended, I can see why the change was made. It's vaguely mentioned that he disappeared.

PACING

The pacing is decent. This is not an action packed story, as much of it involves Lyf traveling, hiding or running. So there are a few good chase scenes. There are more moments of suspense then direct action. One of the best scenes is one where Lyf has to sneak draclings out right under the enemies noses'.

FORESHADOWING

There is a small moment in the beginning where Owyn bangs on a metal cup. This later comes back in the climax. It was such a short moment, I wonder if it was on purpose.

Lyf kens with a bird at the beginning of the book (goes into it's mind and merges with it) then does so again more than halfway through the book. This comes back in the climax.

CLIMAX-VAGUE SPOILERS

Lyf intends to reunite with Kaeldra, tell her about the betrayer and be free from the draclings. But instead she ends up protecting the draclings and urging them to leave her. It's as if Lyf herself doesn't realize how much she has come to care for them until the end of the book. Her character development is complete, from selfish to selfless as she risks her life. I also appreciated she had one other character with her she had actually started to know, Spens.

EXPLICIT CONTENT-SPOILERS

Two of the draclings die, but we don't witness it. A side character dies, but we don't get to see this either.

CONCLUSION

Fletcher creates another original story with a likable heroine who develops from a scared, selfish child into a brave girl who sacrifices for others. With both bounty hunters and the Queen's soldiers on her tail, the story is well paced. Although I don't care for how the side story is presented, it's really a minor qualm. If the story is inferior to its predecessors, it's only slightly. I give “Sign of the Dove” four stars.

Book Review: "Secrets of the Dragon Sanctuary" by Brandon Mul

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

The group has to travel to a dangerous dragon preserve in order to get the key to a vault that hold a dangerous artifact. But in order to get to it they have to get past a giant, dragons, a hydra, and the demon Navarog.

CHARACTER GROWTH

Kendra develops in small ways. When she is all alone and trapped, she shows courage and her sarcasm is almost reminiscent of Seth. She still has a crush on Gavin but this is never expressed, unless you count letters they supposedly exchanged. On another note, she has to goad a new ally into killing a new enemy. I didn't like it. The new ally should have developed some courage and done it without any manipulation.

Seth does develop in a way. He learns more about his newly obtained skills. Also, it turns out he may have some new surprising ones. And how he reacts to witnessing the death of a character is quite moving, and we do witness how it effects him. Although there are a few times when he still acts as stupid as he did I the first book, making me annoyed.

Gavin returns in the second part of the book. There isn't any development between him and Kendra, which I was disappointed in, as it was hinted at in the last book. There are no conversations between them about anything personal. And although Seth takes him aside and asks him about their relationship, and Gavin hints that he likes Kendra, there isn't any real relationship. I get it, their teenagers. But they could have flirted, or held hands or...something.

Warren has more personality than others in that he is often joking. He is good for a laugh, but it's hard to develop a character that is so shallow. Considering that he has been around since book two, I kind of expected him to develop or at least be more crucial to the plot. Also, he encourages Seth to do something that could potentially get him killed, and disregards Grandpa Sorenson's orders. This is never addressed.

Mara actually appeared in the last book. She lived at Lost Mesa. She was barely in it, and although she is in half of this story, I still know nothing about her. She is described as serious and athletic. That is all. There are no conversations between her and other characters that reveal anything about her.

Dougan, Maddox's brother, is another character that seems to have no real personality. He was in the the last book as he went to Lost Mesa with Kendra. He had no personality then and still doesn't.

NEW CHARACTERS

Trask is a new character, who is the leader of the mission in the second portion of the book. The only impression I get from him is that he is mature and patient. Not much else. I would have liked to see him be a mentor Seth and Kendra. But that interaction just wasn't there.

Agad is the wizard and the caretaker of Wyrmroost, the dragon sanctuary. He isn't in the story much but comes across as a mentor, not just to Kendra, but to Seth as well.

Thronis is a giant who lives in Wyrmroost. His laid-back demeanor masks his willingness to kill. He isn't in the story quite enough to develop.

Bubda is a troll that resides in a magical item. He isn't that smart, but is rather amusing. Also, he is actually crucial in one part of the story.

Raxtus is a dragon who was rescued by faeries and hatched by them. Because of that, he is small and excluded from other dragons. He is slightly timid and not fierce or inclined to fight. He does play an important role, but I actually didn't care for how it was done.

PACING

The pacing is good, and the action starts pretty much right away. And from then, we split back in fourth between Kendra's and Seth's perspectives. That keeps the story moving pretty fast. Even when they are reunited, things go pretty fast. Seth has his own risky quest, as well as him and Kendra being attacked. Eventually, it all culminates into a trip to Wyrmroost, the dragon sanctuary.

SAME OLD SETH

I have the same problem I always have with Seth. He keeps ignoring the rules, disobeying and having no consequences whatsoever. And I don't just mean getting grounded. I mean messing up and having something bad happen as a result. It seems whenever Seth takes a big risk, he always succeeds and suffers no consequences. Just like in the last book, where Seth basically signs a death warrant with the centaurs, but gets pulled out by Patton.

Kendra actually does this too. There is a scene where she disobeys and talks to a dragon in the last book, but nothing bad comes from it. And it's starting to get annoying. Kendra blames herself for something bad that happens in this book, but it's not really her fault. It's the Knights of the Dawn's fault.

CLIMAX-THE BETRAYAL

In order to be shocked by a betrayal, I really have to know a character. So when he or she turns against the other characters, I can be angry. Or at least look back at certain moments and wonder if there was any sincerity. Also, looking back at hints and thinking, “I knew it!” or “It was so obvious!”

Oddly, I felt none of these things when a character is revealed to be a traitor. I went back to see if their were hints, to check if I was just being dense. But I saw nothing overt. Except for the whole “dragon” title thing. But honestly, the name was mentioned once, and I didn't think Mul would be so obvious. Although I think the big hint was supposed to be when this character went off on his own to defeat a dangerous enemy. I guess this was kind of fishy, but I chalked it up to crappy writing. Although it was mentioned that Navarog had an avatar.

I really think it would have been normal for Mul to simply have Navarog show up near the end. After all, we didn't learn about Ephira till well near the climax in the last book. So it would be par for the course.

THE KNIGHTS OF THE DAWN

One of the knights of the dawn is a traitor. Not surprising, right? We learned from book two that there were most likely traitors there. And then we learned the sphinx was the leader. So obviously no one can be trusted, right? Right?

So if a member was revealed to be a descendant of a previous member, and no one had heard of him...and only one person vouched for him and the sphinx was the leader of the knights...see where I am going? This person essentially never existed and no one decided to look in on it.

I kept thinking there should have been a side story where another character investigated or maybe accidentally found out the truth. The whole “Knights” thing suddenly seems like a joke. I just couldn't suspend my disbelief. This is a magical world. Couldn't we have had a more convincing lie, like a shapeshifter or something?

EXPLICIT CONTENT

Two characters get killed by a dragon, who eats them. Not much detail is given. Another is killed by having his youth sucked away.

CONCLUSION

The story isn't bad at all. In fact, it's original and well paced. Both Kendra and Seth are crucial to the story and have unique talents and there are many charming moments. But there are too many characters I care nothing about and the twist ending annoyed me, rather than shocked me in the way I think it was supposed

Book Review: "Grip of the Shadow Plague" by Brandon Mul

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

A plague is settling over fablehaven, turning everything it touches into creatures of darkness. Kendra goes off with others on a mission, while those at Fablehaven try to learn about what's really going on, and how to stop it.

CHARACTER GROWTH-SPOILERS

Kendra is fairykind, so she gets treated rather special. Even so, she isn't a Mary Sue. She struggles to understand her role, and has to learn that being fairykind doesn't make her strong or wise.

There is a scene between her and Gavin where she comes off as obnoxious. It's clear that Gavin is only worried for her safety, but she takes it as chauvinism. This is reminiscent of book one, when she assumes Coulter is sexist. But unlike in book one, I am glad to say that Kendra learns that she was mistaken. So when she fumes about how she saved Fablehaven before, and should be good enough to go on any mission, we see it's her immaturity, not the author screaming how sexist everyone is. Although one could argue she is on the verge of being a Mary sue, as she does disobey one time and have zero consequences. This is bearable because the others don't worship her nor does Kendra brag about her abilities.

Seth is still up to his old tricks, like trading batteries for gold. Although he has the decency to feel bad afterwards. I understood this had a crucial part of moving the story forward, so I can kind of forgive the fact that Seth still hasn't learned much from his past mistakes. To be fair, there are actual consequences for his disobeying orders.

It's important to note that Seth discovers he has his own set of skills. I think if this wasn't revealed, he would easily get overshadowed by Kendra. I felt in the first two books, she was much more important than him. I am relieved to see this was remedied. There are a few hints throughout the book so you are not too surprised to find out the truth.

Grandpa Sorenson develops in this story as he actually doubts he is fit to be caretaker. So many incidents have happened lately. I thought this was rather realistic, as it is he who decided to let Kendra and Seth stay, and his wisdom should have come under scrutiny before.

NEW CHARACTERS

Gavin is a member of the Knights of the Dawn. He is in the first part of the book. His stuttering can sometimes make him come off as unsure, but often times he shows great passion and certainty.

Dougan is a member of the Knights of the Dawn. He is in the first portion of the book. He didn't really have a distinct personality to me.

LOST MESA

There are a small group of characters we are introduced to in the new preserve. But to be honest, I didn't find them interesting enough to really care about. Only one left a lasting impression.

But the obstacles were interesting, from the Choke pods to the finale. And from these events, more is revealed about both Kendra and Gavin.

A LATE ADDITION

A new character get's thrown into the story rather late. But it worked, mainly because we had learned about this character throughout the first two books. Because of this, it was easy to get invested in the relationships he has. Otherwise, it never would have resounded with me.

SETH'S DISOBEDIENCE

It's no surprise when Seth decides to disobey his grandpa. And for once, he didn't come off as selfish. He decides it's time to risk his own life. My real qualm is after he is spotted and chased by everyone, Grandpa Sorenson forgives him and decides he can come with. It just felt a little far fetched to me. Seth has disobeyed so many times, this reaction might have made sense with Kendra. Because she usually obeys.

Also, he is reckless later on, basically making a deal to help the situation now, so he can die later. I think Mul wanted to use Seth's hot-headedness to his advantage. But I though it just made Seth look foolish. Perhaps he should have done it anther way, like Seth's bluntness and honesty helping to win over new friends instead.

He is saved from this ordeal later on and even from Grandpa finding out about it. I understand a new character appears, so it makes sense to want him to have a purpose. But I don't think Seth ever felt the gravity of the situation he created.

PACING

Because most of the book is divided between two different adventures, the pacing is good. Although Kendra's side is more action packed, while Seth's involves more mysteries that present themselves. This is made obvious because Kendra gets six chapters and Seth only gets four.

CLIMAX

It was interesting to me to see the events of the past came into play regarding the villain. Also the idea of someone dying was planted early on. It's easy to think this will be bypassed. I appreciated Mul's willingness to sacrifice someone that wasn't a background character.

A FALLEN STATE

The affect that the plague has on magical beings, doesn't effect humans. Grandpa Sorenson tries to explain this, discussing his view on it. I thought it was really interesting, how he explained the difference between the two and how some magical beings don't have fallen states, meaning they have more autonomy, similar to humans. It was an interesting philosophical discussion, especially since Coulter disagrees with Sorenson on some of his views.

EXPLICIT CONTENT

A character gets killed by being thrown off a cliff. Not much detail is given. Another is killed but is in a separate room, so no one witnesses it directly.

CONCLUSION

Mul weaves together events from books one and two to create a third story an in impressive way. He never lets you forget past events. Also, he gives Seth some new abilities so he can start to become equal to Kendra. It was nice to see he wasn't afraid to sacrifice important characters. I give “Grip of the Shadow Plague” four stars.

Book Review: "Rise of the Evening Star" by Brandon Mul

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

Seth and Kendra are put in danger, and have to return to Fablehaven for protection from the Society of the Evening Star. There they are taught by three new allies and learn that magical artifacts have been stolen from other reserves. And then there is the mystery of the Sphinx, an ageless being who helps protect the magical reservations all over the globe.

NEW CHARACTERS

Errol Fisk introduces himself in the beginning of the book, offering to help the kids with their kobold problem. He seems eccentric, but nice enough.

Coulter Dixon hunts for magical relics and is rather gruff. Also, he tells Kendra that he is old fashioned, and there are places he won't take woman, because he respects them.

Tanu creates magical potions and hunts for their ingredients. He introduces the kids to potions that can manipulate your emotions.

Vanessa finds and captures mystical animals from all around the world. They are different than magical beings, who have the intelligence of humans, like the satyrs, demons, and the fairies, ect.

Warren, is the younger brother of Dale. Who is currently catatonic, and turned albino from an unknown creature in Fablehaven.

The Sphinx is an ageless being currently in the form of a middle-aged black man. He immediately comes across as mentor full of wisdom, understanding that Seth and Kendra both need to be treated differently.

KENDRA

Kendra learns more about the after affects of the fairies who kissed her. Turns out she is more than just fairystruck, but fairykind. Her abilities are revealed throughout the book and eventually come in handy.

Although there is a time where she comes off as annoying, when she responds to Coulter's polices regarding the treatment of woman. She calls Seth brain dead and later says that Coulter is sexist, even though he clarifies that he doesn't treat girls different because he thinks they aren't as smart or capable as men. Simply that he thinks they deserve special treatment.

This is just a weird aspect of the story in general though. Perhaps this was meant for us to be suspicious of his morality. It didn't make me feel that way. He didn't come off as sexist at all. He seemed well intentioned, and Kendra's reaction to it was rather childish. If the point was for Kendra to learn to respect people she disagrees with, this would make sense. But we never get any scene that reveals this.

But this was a small scene, and is easily forgettable.

SETH & CONSEQUENCES

When Seth first realizes a mistake he made, and that Kendra was right, he does note that he hasn't changed or learned anything.

But then Kendra comes in and explains that Seth's actions are never Seth's fault because Errol fooled her too. She says he is just brave, again babying him like everyone did in the previous book. Peoples' lives are supposed to be at risk. But Seth never gets so much as a slap on the wrist.

Even after learning about consequences of something he did, there is still not so much as a reprimand. Grandma simply parrots what Kendra said earlier: it is not his fault, he was just being brave and trying to help.

But, on a positive note, he does put his life at risk for everyone. But I am not sure if it was because he was trying to prove himself or just sick that his sister has all of the abilities. He does snap at her, calling her the fairy princess and saying only she can do whatever she wants (in reference to her risking her life in the first book).

A BELIEVABLE DECEPTION

Seth and Kendra may both be deceived, and you might think after going through so much at Fablehaven, they would be more careful. But a certain character does come across as rather convincing, mentioning things that only an ally would know. So the deception is quite plausible (unlike in the last book, where it ruined a large portion of the plot).

PACING

The pacing is good, as we jump into the story pretty fast, with the introduction of a new kid at Seth and Kendra's school who causes trouble. And then we meet another character and get involved into a dangerous task. Not long after that we are headed back to Fablehaven but not without some fast paced trouble.

PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER-SPOILERS

Mul doesn't present any information that isn't useful to the plot later on. So it's important to be paying attention, or you might be surprised later on. The poison darts that Vanessa has from the salamanders are presented; Warren is shown in his catatonic state; Coulter shows the kids his invisibility glove and his cocoon device and Vanessa reveals a secret way of communication with Kendra. These are planted (as well as other scenes) and all pay off later.

Also, Mul reveals information about the last book. Like Grandma revealing how she was turned into a chicken, and the Sphinx revealing exactly why the faeries did what they did to Kendra.

FUTURE PLANS

Mul places things in the book that may be used later one, such as Hugo's growing intelligence (thanks to the faeries putting him back together) as well as mentioning the Knights of the Dawn, a group of people who fight to protect the sanctuaries. Again, he lets the reader know that this is series, planting seeds that won't be revealed until later.

CLIMAX

The climax of the story mostly involves Kendra and Warren. Seth isn't involved, similar to the last book, which surprised me. But to be fair, he actually accomplished something crucial to the climax, allowing Kendra to go to inverted tower with an ally.

CONCLUSION

Mul creates a faster paced story with the same original world. Every piece of information he presents is important and later put to good use. Kendra develops, learning about her abilities and the responsibilities that come with it. And after a time, Seth steps up to prove himself. Even the ending is juicy. I give "Rise of the Evening Star" four stars.

Book Review: "Fablehaven" by Brandon Mul

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

When siblings Seth and Kendra are sent to spend the summer with their grandparents, they don't know what to expect. They barely even know them. It seems there is a secret, including the mystery of where there grandmother is. Told not to go into the woods, Seth can't help but disobey. Eventually the two discover the truth: the woods hold the reserve for magical creatures.

OUR CAST OF CHARACTERS

Kendra is more cautious, studious and patient then her little brother. She doesn't desire adventure, more aware of the dangers that come along with it.

Seth is adventurous, eager and a little reckless. He tends to brush off warnings from adults, thinking they are overprotective. He isn't afraid to get dirty and likes animals, taking a liking to the chicken in their room.

Grandpa Sorenson is rather secretive about the grounds, as well as the whereabouts of his wife. He is blunt, strict and used to being obeyed.

Lena cooks and takes care of the house from Grandpa Sorenson. She is a great cook and helps take care of the house. She also takes care of the garden.

Muriel is the old woman who lives in the woods. She is crafty and willing to do anything to get free from her chains.

PACING-SPOILERS

The pacing is decent. We start right off on the way to Fablehaven. And from the first chapter, there are only four chapters until we discover the secret in Chapter five. There a few hints here and there to keep you guessing, like the weird behavior of the bees, the keys that Grandpa gives Kendra, and the fact that grandma is missing and the reason given sounds flimsy. Not to mention the odd behavior of Lena.

There is really no reason to draw this part of the book out, just by the title of the series you know it's a fantasy book. Mul doesn't make that mistake. Although it is not until chapter eleven that the main problem and the rest of the plot is revealed which is halfway through a nineteen chapter book.

CREATURES OF FABLEHAVEN

One of the best aspects of the books are the creatures that reside in Fablehaven. From the naiads, the satyrs, trolls, and the golem, Hugo. We only get glimpses of many of them, making us want to learn more. And surely there are many more creatures we have not yet seen. I really liked Hugo, who seemed almost like a cute, huge pet. And the limberjack was quite creepy.

MYSTERIES OF FABLEHAVEN

There are mysteries presented throughout the plot. Such as Pattern Burgess, Warren, and the fate of Lena. All of these created interest for me to want to learn more. It was shown in a way that made you understand why this was a series. Unlike some series', that present everything new in each book. Reading the first, it was obvious that there was more to learn.

THE PROBLEM OF SETH-SPOILERS

When Seth offends the fairies by kidnapping one, you can forgive him because of his ignorance. But the result is nightmarish, one that would freak out any adult, let alone a child. I thought it was strange that no punishment is ever mentioned from what should be a serious incident. It destroyed any levity to the situation.

By the time Midsummer Eve rolled around, and after being warned about the danger and the possibility of death, Seth is just as dumb as before the fairy incident. And because of him, everyone is put at risk. His family is possibly dead, or soon will be.

If that wasn't enough, when he finally admits it is all his fault, both Kendra and grandma do their best to make him feel better, and say it's not. Or give him platitudes about learning from his mistake. He almost killed everyone. He didn't flunk a test.

SETH'S REDEMPTION

There is scene later where Seth puts his own life at risk, rather then let his grandma do it. But we are never sure about his motivation. It seems obvious it would be redeeming himself for his past sins. But this is never even mentioned, and is left to readers' imagination. This was a big mistake.

Seth desperately needed redemption. And the reader needed to witness his inner struggle, so we could celebrate with him. Instead we are kept in the dark and his character feels stunted.

MIDSUMMER EVE

I already pointed out the problem with Seth. But he was supposed to have been deceived, instead of just being reckless. But the event that occurs is so obvious a trap, that even Kendra points it out. The deception should have been somewhat convincing to make the reader think twice.

Perhaps something having to do with their parents returning. Maybe being set up with texts on their phones or something. (If the creatures could manipulate machines, that would be a twist.) It should have been an understandable mistake.

Instead a baby magically appears on the roof of the house and Seth stupidly believes it is real. It was just lazy writing, like in a horror movie, where the only way to move the story alone is to have the brain-dead protagonists rush headlong into danger while the audience screams at them to go back, simultaneously laughing at their stupidity.

EVERYTHING'S RELATIVE

Lena gives the kids a speech about how the creatures in Fablehaven are neither good or bad. Seeing how they have such a long life span in comparison to humans, that may be understandable. Like how humans would treat flies. But when he get introduced to a creature called Bahamut, suddenly the idea of the creatures being beyond good and evil seems ridiculous.

Also, the kids are also told that the creatures live by a set of rules, a pact, placed upon them by Fablehaven: they can't hurt you unless you hurt them first. But there is no mention of how they treat each other. That could be an indicator of if they are moral or immoral.

CLIMAX-SPOILERS

In the end, it's really Kendra's book. As she is the one who has to save everyone. I felt in many ways she was the opposite of Seth. She was cautious but curious, and her reaction to loss and danger was way more realistic than his. When she is the only one left, she actually breaks down and starts crying, feeling completely overwhelmed. It's what any of us would do. And I couldn't help but feel bonded to her in that scene.

There is a good mix of action and mystery. And the problem to the solution was hinted at much earlier in the book, but it's not obvious. After all, Kendra has no guarantee that what she does will work. These scenes were by far my favorite part in the book. When the limberjack came after her, the scenes reeked of desperation and fear. There was a sense of urgency that had not existed until then.

CONCLUSION

Mul creates an original world with unique creatures. The pacing is good and the problems keep coming to help the story move along. But too often the story moves along because of something stupid that Seth did. And his refusal to learn, or face any real consequences bugged me. Still, there are enough mysteries planted in this story that makes me want to read another. And Kendra's adventures to save her family was suspenseful and exciting. I give “Fablehaven” three stars.