Book Review: "The Shadowlands" by Emily Rodda

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

After retrieving the first two pieces pf the Pirran pipe, Lief and his friends go on to get the third. But the shadowlands proves dangerous, with enemies on all sides. They head to the center of trouble, learning some secrets while discovering new ones.

NEW CHARACTERS

Emlis ends up coming along after Lief has the third piece of the pipe. He says they need him because he can play the pipe and none of them know how to. But he gets injured rather fast and ends up being carried. He does play an important role in the climax.

Brianne of Lees is a character that helps them go to the factory. Lief finally remembers why her name is familiar.

Claw is a man who has been experimented on by the shadow Lord's men.

PACING

The pacing is good. In the beginning we get new information and a new party member before the action starts. But when it does, it's fast and suddenly we have enemies on both sides. From then on it goes back and forth between action and new mysteries being presented.

LIEF & JASMINE

Jasmine thinks to herself that she has forgiven Lief for lying to her. But she hasn't had any real conversations with them. They are too busy trying to survive. And later on she still seems mad at him.

There isn't much communication, which drives me mad. Lief wonders if Jasmine is getting them lost, then if she is leading them into danger on purpose.

THE VRALL

One of my favorite parts is the scene where the Vrall returns. You might remember him from the last series, where Lief barely got away with his life. Once again we run rather then fight but I loved that scene. It was very reminiscent of Jurassic Park.

THE GIFT OF GLOCK-SPOILERS

When Lief and company meet a group of strangers in a secret tunnel, Jasmine is shocked to see one of the men looks just like Glock. Turns out he is a Jalis. When they start to turn against the group Jasmine shows the talisman that Glock gave her and what he said to her when he died. Because of this the group decides to trust them and escort them to the west.

PREDICTABILITY

The one thing that bothered me in the first book was Jasmine's obviously fake sister. So when it turned out...that she was fake I wasn't surprised. Barely even annoyed. I still don't think she was necessary for the plot. Jasmine already had felt distanced from Lief, and the secret bride just made it worse.

Lief mentions that feels that Jasmine wants to go into the shadow Lord's headquarters. But couldn't they have ended up there another way?

THE MYSTERIOUS ASSASSINS

As Lief and his friends go through the factory they hear hints of something called a “conversion” as well as learn some secrets about the grey guards. Secrets mount as Lief recognizes one of the people in charge and is horrified. This is comes to a head when they make another discovery and we finally learn the truth about the assassins sent to kill Lief.

LIEF

We actually learn about how Lief feels about the object he had to hide away. How he suffered and how he tried so hard to destroy it only to fail.

CLIMAX

Everyone ends up at the arena, with a plan that is set in place but should be canceled. We learn exactly what the Conversion is and we finally test out the pipe.

MYSTERIES SOLVED

We learn just who Marilen is and why she was brought to Deltora.

We learn as to why Jinks died (which may have been obvious) and as to why Marilen went to Sharn in the first place. Once we learn this, we understand why Marilen was so important and why she was to be protected.

CONCLUSION

The pacing is good and mysteries are finally solved. Some hinted throughout, others not mentioned until the very end. Glock's death serves another purpose while we face new monsters as well as an old one in the vraal. My only criticism is the same I had for the first book: Jasmine's motivation and her fake sister. Even near the last portion of the book, her and Lief still hadn't talked. I give “The Shadowlands” three and half stars.

Book Review: "The Isle of Illusion" by Emily Rodda

SPOIL FREE SUMMARY

After receiving the first part of the pipe, Lief is onto the second Island where he meets a group of people that have lived in darkness after being expelled from their original home. There they are told the pipe is impossible to get to. But they don't let that stop them.

NEW CHARACTERS

Penn is one of the descendants from the Island of Auron. She is crucial to the plot as she shows them where the island is, lets them stay at her home and reveals their history.

PACING

The pacing is good. Right off the bat we encounter a group of monsters that take their prey and create clay coffins for them. Lief and co have to figure out a way to escape and once they do, they have to figure out how to save Barda while not being able to get close to him.

We learn about the Aurons, then see why the pipe is so well protected. Not long after we're moving again, going after it. The story only slows to tell us important information.

A CHANGED LIEF

In the beginning of the the story, Lief recalls the attempts on his life. He gives more details then in the first book where it was mentioned rather briefly. He mentions how the attacks came from people whom no one suspected and no one could believe. And that's why he worried about who he could trust.

JASMINE'S ROLE

Jasmine plays a key role again, as she says something that gives Lief an idea as to how to retrieve the next piece of the Pirran pipe. Also, she being the confident climber, easily leads the way.

PUZZLES

This time, the puzzle is not so obvious. It has to do with a history story that Barda, Jasmine and Lief get to read. There are a few hints that they are not being told the whole truth.

LIEF & JASMINE

There is a disagreement between Lief and Jasmine when Jasmine says he can be ruthless when it comes to his people. Lief doesn't understand her hostile behavior. But there isn't much discussion between them. There is a certain moment where we learn Jasmine thinks that people must hate her delaying his wedding.

THE RETURN OF JINKS

Jinks returns to Deltora only to tell everyone that Lief and Barda are dead. Sharn treats him well but it's revealed she doesn't' believe him. Neither does Marilen. He tries to cause more trouble but only adds a mystery.

THE SPIDERS

Once again the spiders play a role. When Barda is trapped, one spider is with him, so the other tries to break in to get to him. It inadvertently ends up distracting the giant spiders so Lief can escape.

MYSTERIOUS MARILEN

Jasmine initially hears that Marilen is to be Lief's bride. She ends up being a side character as she has quite a few scenes with other characters in the castle. She seems innocent and meek but eventually it's revealed she is brave and can be bold. There are a few mysteries that are set up, besides the question if she is really Lief's bride.

CLIMAX-SPOILERS

Lief and his friends finally get inside the area where they believe the pipe is. They start to suspect that they haven't been told everything. They accidentally end up destroying the city and having to try and escape the giant spiders outside it. Afterwards they confront the Auron about the lies.

CONCLUSION

Rodda creates a fast paced story with scary, new monsters and a side story that keeps you guessing. My only complaint is the lack of communication between Lief and Jasmine. I give “The Isle of Illusion” four stars.

Book Review: "Cavern of the Fear" by Emily Rodda

SPOIL FREE SUMMARY

The Shadow Lord has fled, but he taken prisoners with him. Lief has grown distant from Jasmine and Barda and become reclusive thanks to multiple attempts on his life. But when a mysterious Pipe is revealed Lief decides to set out and retrieve it.

CAST OF CHARACTERS

Lief feels overwhelmed with the throne. Because attempts on his life have been made by people who have previously been loyal citizens he is confused about who to trust.

Jasmine feels cut off from Lief and that he has changed, no longer trusting her. She also feels out of place in the castle, still going barefoot and still getting odd glances from people.

Glock is from the race of Jalis, a warrior tribe. He is brave but sometimes rash. He seems to see it his duty to look after Jasmine.

Barda is the same character. Still a mentor/big brother to Lief.

<>Marilen is a girl that Lief brings from Tora. She seems meek at first but quickly becomes bold, confiding in the queen.

Azan & Clef are two goblins who rescue Barda and Lief.

PACING

The pacing is slower at first. Because in order for the story to get set in motion, we must see Lief going to Tora, Jasmine finding a lost item, and then both learning from it.

JASMINE'S ROLE-SPOILERS

Jasmine ends up being led to a man who has a valuable item to the kingdom. She then brings this man and the item to Lief and is surprised that everyone is so grateful. This is crucial to the plot because Jasmine then secretly gets information while Lief later gets information. Both set out on their journey's because of that item.

PUZZLES

There are a few puzzles in the story. They occur when Barda and Lief are in trouble and Lief has to solve two puzzles. The first being one with spotting words in a maze of letters. And the second is a riddle.

FIGHTING SPIDERS

There is a scene in the beginning where both Glock and Jinks are seen fighting with spiders. These spiders are vengeful, and whenever one loses it won't stop until it finds the other. It can sense the other and will find it no matter where it is. This later plays a big role, as Lief and Barda take Jinks along with his spider, to find Glock's spider.

PREDICTABILITY-SPOILERS

Jasmine discovers a hidden chamber in the castle. Being restless and upset about Lief she goes forward and finds an item that communicates with a prisoner of the Shadow Lord. To spoil it, the girl claims to be the little sister of Jasmine's. Jasmine is furious that Lief would keep this secret from her (she thinks he must know and have learned about it).

I was kind of annoyed because I knew the moment I read it, there was no sister and this was a trap. The odds of her mom being pregnant without her knowing about it seemed zero. I understand the need was to put Jasmine and Lief at odds, but couldn't it have been less obvious? Jasmine is usually the smartest of the group, saving there lives in the majority of the books. And yet not only did she believe something with so little evidence but she assumed the worst of Lief and never even confronted him.

LIEF'S BURDEN

It's mentioned that Lief wishes he could tell his friends the truth about a certain issue. This helps set up suspense.

CLIMAX

Lief, Jasmine, Barda and Glock have to face the Fear, a huge monster. Although Jasmine attempts to kill it, it's Jalis who deals the killing blow. Everyone narrowly avoids getting crushed by the huge tentacles and Jasmine and Glock share a sad but sweet moment.

TWIST ENDING

We finally get the first piece of pipe from an unexpected source thanks to a story from Doran the dragonlover.

CONCLUSION

The world has expanded with a new group of islands and a new race of people. The monster is terrifying and the way the first piece of pipe is retrieved is surprising and poetic. My only gripe was the motivation of Jasmine with a ploy that every reader can see through. I give “Cavern of the Fear” three and a half stars.

Book Review: "Return to Del" by Emily Rodda

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

Lief and his friends finally have all seven gems of the belt. But they must reunite the seven tribes to regain its true power. And then there is the finding of the heir. But twists and turns lead Lief confused. It doesn't help that there seems to be a traitor in their midst. And to top it off, they have to sneak into a well guarded Del.

RETURNING CHARACTERS

Lief's humility revealed more of itself than in any other book. And his unique characteristic: riddle solving, is crucial to the climax.

Barda plays an important role in this book. Again, he provides crucial wisdom that allows the quest to continue.

Jasmine is consistent in character, losing her temper once again. But she later shows how she has changed, by openly crying and seeking Lief's hand for comfort.

Doom may have let his anger cloud his judgment, but he does not come across as a dumb elder, who needed a young, less jaded person to do his dirty work. Instead he just seems screwed up and we understand why from previous revelations. There is enough tension between him and Lief to cause suspicions.

Dain returns with Doom. He helps care for a wounded friend.

PACING-SPOILERS

The pacing is still decent, even thought he bulk of the book is spent outside of Del, outside of the climax. We don't actually get to Del until chapter eleven. From there, things move fast though. And we face out share of problems even before then, including grey guards, killer plants, and a character on the verge of death.

CLIMAX-SPOILERS

We face two enemies. One, which is quickly defeated, and the second, which isn't actually defeated by Lief. And Lief wins not by any actual fight, but the discovering the belt's true power. There isn't an actual fight with the shadow Lord. Now, if I didn't know about a sequel, that would annoy me. But seeing how Lief will face the Shadow Lord in another book, I can't really complain.

RIDDLES

The riddle of this book is the secret of the belt. Throughout the story, Lief is trying to discover the true power of the belt. He returns to the book but doesn't actually understand it until the climax.

THE TRUE HEIR

There are hints about who the heir is throughout the series. There was never a time where I thought, it's so obvious. So when Rodda paints one character as the heir, and then another, they both seem plausible.

EXPLICIT CONTENT-SPOILERS

Nevets kills some grey guards and disposes their bodies by feeding them to killer plants.

CONCLUSION

In Rodda's final installment, the only thing we know is that nothing is certain. There are trails laid everywhere, and most of them are false. But all secrets are eventually revealed. We see Lief and Jasmine develop more, and maybe even hint at a romantic relationship in the future. I give “Return to Del” four stars.

Book Review: "The Valley of the Lost" by Emily Rodda

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

Lief and company are heading to the Valley of Shadows, but not before a detour that reveals some unpleasant things. And then there is the guardian of the valley himself, who has created a disturbing home for himself.

RETURNING CHARACTERS

Lief doubts his own abilities as well if they will ever be able to find the heir when its revealed that things might be so easy. An aspect of his character that gives him realism. He also shows insight on various occasions, noticing things that neither Barda nor Jasmine do, helping solve a riddle.

Barda plays his usual role, calming down Lief and Barda when they panic upon spotting a huge group of Ols. He also informs them that a plan of theirs would fail, showing wisdom that is sorely needed.

Jasmine plays her same role as well, sensing living beings in the Valley of the Lost, and sensing the smells of a town not far off. Although she is brash a few times as she is prone to be she also admits to a mistake later, endearing herself to the reader.

Doom makes a cameo in this story. He is quite surly, which is understandable, since they sneaked out of his jail cell. He argues against them going to the Valley of Shadows, and finally reveals some of his past.

Dain returns for this story, but only for the beginning. Lief feels slightly suspicions to his strong reaction to the city of Tora.

Neridah, who fought Lief in Rithmere, ends up tagging along. Lief does not trust her, remembering her deceitful nature in the ring.

NEW CHARACTERS

The guardian of the Valley of the Lost is lover of games. While he lives in a palace, his subjects are frail and weak. He seems mentally unstable.

PACING

There is not as much action as the last books. Much of the story is exploration as well as the seeds of mysteries being planted for the final story to come. Who is Doom? Why is he so against them going to the Valley of Shadows? Is he trustworthy? What happened to the people of Tora? Where could the heir be now? It's really these questions that urge the reader on, not cliffhanger hangings and action scenes.

RIDDLES

There is one riddle, but it leads up the climax and takes up three chapters. Also, the poem itself has multiple riddles inside it. This was one of my favorites. There are clues planted beforehand that are easy to mistake as the ramblings of an insane man. There is also a puzzle, as well as a game of comparison between two images. I had fun with that last one especially.

FORESHADOWING

There are plenty of hints of something being discovered, but not being revealed directly. Like when Lief figures out what happened to the city of Tora, or when he thinks there is reason why they should not steal the diamond, but he is not sure why. These little things make the reader rush forward, waiting for the mystery to be revealed.

PATTERN-SPOILERS

There is a detour in the story, being the exploration of Tora. It takes up seven chapters out of the sixteen. And another is used for travel. So by chapter eight we have arrived at our destination, the Valley of shadows. So it basically takes up half the book. This is in line with the other books, where half of the story or more is taken by an impediment to their quest.

CLIMAX

Rodda sticks to her usual method, as there is no fight scene. Instead Lief and company have to solve a riddle. This doesn't seem like it would be exciting, but the conclusion definitely brings dread and a confrontation. As well as some realizations about Doom.

EXPLICIT CONTENT-SPOILERS

A character dies from falling and hitting their head on a rock, although this is not witnessed directly.

CONCLUSION

Rodda bases this story more on mysteries and suspense but it's still well paced. It's a perfect prelude to the last book. Our characters are fully fleshed out by now, so she focuses on what's important: the mystery of the heir, King Endon's last actions, and if there is hope for a future. I give “The Valley of the Lost” four stars.

Book Review: "The Maze of the Beast" by Emily Rodda

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

Lief and his friends are headed for the maze of the beast, but they have more than a few things stopping them. Like returning a member of the resistance, Dain, to a refuge. Then there are the pirates that lurk around and destroy whole towns, as well as the monstrous worms in in the river. Not to mention a new type of monster, under orders from the Shadow Lord to hunt them down.

RETURNING CHARACTERS

Lief struggles from many of his previous doubts. He shows moments of vulnerability, once in the maze, he thinks its futile. And that they would always end up here to die. Another time, an inner voice mocks him saying there is no hope. He continues to be a realistic character with doubts and fears.

Barda plays his same role, calming and guiding Jasmine and Lief. Although he acts strange later on. He comes to their rescue when they least expect it and offers wisdom and hope they desperately need.

Jasmine shows her ability to do what needs to be done by going off on her own, as well as her resourcefulness later. She is the first to be suspicious of Dain. She surprised me by showing weakness by sobbing from a fear of drowning.

NEW CHARACTERS

Dain is a member of the resistance, and was in Rithmere with Doom. Doom is like a father to him. He travels along with our heroes while he is injured. He is quiet and dignified but Lief does not trust him completely, thinking there is something dark underneath.

Ols are a new type of monster that we see quite a bit in this book. Dain teaches us about them and the different grades. Some are easy to identify, but others harder.

PACING

The pacing is excellent and I found although we didn't reach the monster near the last few chapters of the book, there is one problem after the next. This keeps the reader going, as well as many good chapter endings.

There isn't just one thing keeping our heroes from their goal, like previously. There is the resistance. There are the pirates. There is the monster known as the Glus. There's the ocean itself that becomes a threat, in multiple forms. Again, this break in the story pattern mold is welcome and helps the pacing.

SECRETS & LIES

There are some suspicions about Dain and why he wants to go to Tora. The city is mostly a secret, although we learn some about it. There is also the mysterious Doom and his motivations. Some of his history is revealed by Dain but it sounds unbelievable. Later on we even doubt if he is on their side at all, or has betrayed them. This is a new, unique aspect of the story.

RELATIONSHIPS

Jasmine agrees to split up from them and Lief notes more than once that he misses her and it is dull without her. Also, when he see's Dain's admiration for Jasmine, he feels jealous. I thought this was sweet and the first real sign of feelings that he may have for her.

There is a sweet scene where Lief embraces Barda, fearing he was dead.

RIDDLES

There is a riddle where Lief has to figure out the password to get inside the resistance's haven. There is a hint earlier one and a piece of paper that helps him. I had fun trying to figure it out.

CLIMAX

When it comes to the Glus, there is no knock down, drag out fight. But seeing a fight over and over again would not be very creative. Rodda usually likes to show her characters have to use their brains and think of a way out. Often times, she plants hints on how they can obtain a gem and get around the guardian. If the way was, use your sword, it would be rather repetitive.

EXPLICIT CONTENT

A pirate is killed by the Glus, but we don't witness it, only hear it.

CONCLUSION

Rodda paints another book, that is full of twists and turns. She plants enough seeds for the reader to look for, while giving us doubts about everything. This adds a whole new level to the story. Her characters are consistent and realistic and continue to face their fears, coming out stronger. I give “The Maze of the Beast” four stars.

Book Review: "Dread Mountain" by Emily Rodda

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

Lief and his friends are finally on their way to Dread mountain. And with the help of some new friends, may get their without incident. But when they arrive, they still have to deal with the gnomes that guard the mountain and their treasure. And it turns out there is more than the gnomes to deal with.

RETURNING CHARACTERS

Lief shows multiple instances of awareness at his own failings, as well as how he has changed since he started this journey. But in some ways, it is revealed, he still has growing up to do in an argument scene with Barda. But he retains his cleverness with puzzles. And for the first time, it is he alone who is instrumental in the climax. He also shows maturity, when he calmly decides he will give his life for his cause.

Barda seems to have revealed his place. He keeps Jasmine from acting on her temper, as well as calming Lief when he is not thinking clearly. He plays a key role in this book, finally replacing Jasmine, who has dominated the series so far. His idea helps the group find a path to the mountain and he keeps Lief from actually abandoning there mission altogether, which is crucial.

Jasmine still loses her temper, although she is always calmed by Barda or Lief. She still shows a lack of trust with people other than her friends, when it comes to a mystery surrounding Doom. But for the first time, she serves as a voice of wisdom and calm, when it is discovered that they have an unexpected guest on their journey. Normally, her wisdom is relegated to her ability to talk to the trees and her knowledge of the land.

NEW CHARACTERS

Prin is the youngest of the Kin, a race of creatures that slightly resemble dogs, but stand upright and have pouches for their young. Although she is the youngest of her family, Prin goes from being whiny and selfish to being brave and selfless. She also proves essential to the team.

RELATIONSHIPS

Barda again plays the part of a mentor to Lief, but for the first time, we see him react to Jasmine being in serious danger. For once, he loses his temper, while Jasmine is the calm one. It was an interesting switch, seeing Jasmine be gentle with Prin, and Barda letting his emotions get the better of him.

PACING & PATTERN

The pacing is still decent. Same cliffhanger endings that move things along. And the pattern is not exactly the same as the last few books. We get to the mountain pretty fast in the book. There is no large event that keeps us from our destination, like the fighting tournament in “The Shifting Sands” or the cult in “City of the Rats”. Although Rodda follows the same pattern of having a new helper, this time Prin, being instrumental in the quest.

RIDDLES

There is a clever use of hidden words, that makes you go pages back and test it out yourself. That was one of my favorites so far.

FORESHADOWING

There is good use of foreshadowing and hints at what is to come. Multiple times, the reader is given a hint that something is not right, or given information that should be stored away for future use. Its a sign of good storytelling when all the information you get is crucial to the story. Everything carries meaning. Even if the reader cannot see it at the time.

THE ODD VRAAL

There is a fight scene with a scaly beast called a Vraal. For some reason, we get inside of its head, and see its point of view in the fight, before we go back to Lief. It felt odd to me. I kept thinking, why are we learning so much about this monster? Why do I care? It made me think that it was going to return and play a more important role. But it never did. It just felt strange to me.

EXPLICIT CONTENT-SPOILERS

Some gnomes are witnessed being poisoned and dying. Members of the guard are killed through magic.

CONCLUSION

Rodda creates another story with good pacing and likable characters that are consistent and developing. Not to mention Barda has finally seemed to have been given a clear place on the team. The story pattern is changed up slightly, and Lief surprised me by having a solo role. I give “Dread Mountain” four stars.

Book Review: "The Shifting Sands" by Emily Rodda

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

With the group out of supplies, they head to the nearest city, where they hope to earn money. When they come across a flier for a way to earn it, they gladly pursue it. But the task may be easier said than done. And even if they survive, walking out with the prize money might not be so easy. And of course, there is still the matter of the shifting sands and the next gem.

RETURNING CHARACTERS

Lief becomes crucial to the book. He becomes a guide, although we don't understand why until later. There was a good scene where he feels homesick and Jasmine seems curious. He gets embarrassed, and thinks she would think him weak. It shows that insecure part of him. As well as his fear from his vision in the last book.

Barda has a small scene where he gets mad at Lief near the end of the book. It was nice, and showed how much he cared for him. But I wish they had been more development in their relationship. Also, Barda only plays one role in the last chapter. It's a crucial role, but it seems overshadowed by Jasmine, again.

Jasmine and Kree are crucial to this book. Kree helps them when they are lost multiple times. And Jasmine always spots trouble before it starts. She senses the grey guard before they come, as well as a follower who tries to attack. Each time, keeping them alert or helping them to hide. Also, Jasmine's character develops as we learn of her regrets after a fight.

NEW CHARACTERS

Doom, the same man who they saw at Toms, is competing against the group. Lief develops a hatred for him, suspecting him of secretly attacking them.

Mother Brightly is hosting the task. She is very friendly and accommodating. But she may not be what she seems.

CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT

Although I mentioned it briefly, both Jasmine and Lief show good development in this book. Rodda continues to show she knows how to create deep characters, which isn't always in easy task (note that the Deltora books are quite short stories as well). Especially when so many authors overlook this in favor of story. I do find the majority of authors are “story” first and “character” second, authors.

Jasmine could easily come off as a “Mary sue” who knows everything and is always having to save the guys. After all, Lief is young and inexperienced, and Barda isn't much of a guardian. But Rodda manages to exploit her weaknesses. In “City of the Rats” where Jasmine lets her temper get the better of her and actually says it may be best to leave. This book addresses it more fully, as Jasmine herself admits how she lets her anger get the better of her and is disgusted with herself.

Lief has had many instances of self-doubt. Even though he has risen to the occasion, like in the last book, where he boldly and bravely threatens Reeah the snake, he never thinks he is some hero. I found this refreshing. How many times have you said, if I do this, I will feel better about myself? Lief keeps doing amazing things, but like a real person, continues to have insecurities that he refuses to share for fear that people will learn the truth.

PACING

Same good cliffhanger endings. They help move the story along.

RIDDLES

There are still a few riddles, one regarding a half eaten away sign, and another involving mysterious marks in the sand. But they are not really meant for the reader to solve. I had no desire to even try. I feel that is one small critique.

EXPLICIT CONTENT-SPOILERS

Grey guards get killed and their corpses are eaten.

CONCLUSION

The story is well paced and original. For the first time the guardian of the gem is a mystery, and not on the cover of the book. We gain insight into both Jasmine and Lief's fears. And a small hint of Barda's feelings of needing to protect Lief. Although I still feel that he is underused. I give “The Shifting Sands” three and a half stars.

Book Review: "City of the Rats" by Emily Rodda

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

Lief, Barda and Jasmine head to the city of rats, but are stopped when they end up trapped in a weird cult obsessed with cleanliness. They accidentally become trapped and have to find a way out. But even so, they still have to find the City of rats.

RETURNING CHARACTERS

Lief is still slightly naive (at least when it comes to Tom) but is not stupid. He notes how strange the group of people they meet are, even before the truth comes out. He later reveals how he figured out a strange connection no one else saw.

Barda still doesn't have much of a part to play, I am afraid. Although he does remind Lief of an item that saves them in one scene. But other than that, he doesn't do much.

Jasmine, again does much of the hard work. She helps Lief defeat the snake while Barda does nothing but watch. I do not know why Rodda didn't simply let Barda do it. Jasmine already helped in the first quest and she saved them from Jin and Jod in the second.

NEW CHARACTERS

Tira is a young girl who Lief saves from a fierce punishment. She later comes to their aid and although she seems timid and helpless, she proves herself brave.

Tom is the shopkeeper to where the group purchases many items for their quest. Jasmine does not quite like the shop and even Barda is suspicious at first. But Lief is easily won over by the many amazing items. But Tom may not be what he seems.

Reeah is the huge snake that guards the opal and lives in the city of rats.

Lord Ra-kacharz is the leader of a strange cult that the group comes upon in a city called Noradzeer.

PACING

The pacing is decent and like the other books, many chapters are cliffhanger endings.

STRUCTURE

The structure is similar to the last book, as the main part of the story keeps them from their goal, but helps them learn about the enemy or obtain something to help defeat the enemy (Manus and his flute in book two for example). A large portion of the book is spent with the weird cleanliness cult, and then getting to the city.

CLIMAX

The actual confrontation with Reeah the giant snake is only one chapter long. I kind of expected it to be longer. It was mostly a scene where we started to understand the odd cult that we ran into before.

RELATIONSHIPS-SPOILERS

The relationship between Jasmine and Lief develops as Jasmine admits she does not believe that the kings and queens could be so stupid and blind as Lief says. She even suggests that she stay behind in one scene because they do not agree on some things (being the truth of the kings). Barda is mad at her but Lief understands. He used to feel the same way.

Also, Jasmine tends to provide a counter view on many things, like when she notes that Tom only believes in himself, like many creatures do. Lief argues with her about how he is not a creature and should know what is right.

RIDDLES

There are riddles just like in the last book, some with words twisted, and another where Lief has to avoid being tricked by two pieces of paper that both say death. The riddles are simple but it's still interesting to see them solved.

EXPLICIT CONTENT-SPOILERS

A man is killed by poison. The snake is killed by cutting its throat open.

CONCLUSION

Rodda creates another unique tale with fun riddles to solve. Jasmine and Lief's characters are at odds often in the book but develop quite well. Although Barda is still rather useless and the climax is short, I still found the book a worthy entry in the series. I give “City of the Rats” three and half stars.

Book Review: "Lake of Tears" by Emily Rodda

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

Lief, Barda and Jasmine head for the lake of tears. But their journey is slowed by a bridge-guarding monster, some Grey Guards and some man-eating monsters. Along the way they find a guide and a friend but still have to defeat the monster, Soldeen. Not to mention the evil sorcerer Thaegen.

RETURNING CHARACTERS

Lief does reveal some more of his personality. There is a time where he gets homesick but gets mad at himself. He doubts himself on more than one occasion, cursing his stupidity. He feels quite real in these moments. And there are moments of profundity where he wonders if some unseeing hand is guiding their journey. He thinks back to how he and his friends used to laugh at such ideas of having faith. It shows growth.

Jasmine reveals more skills, such as being able to see through a spell. She is also much more suspicious of people they come across. While Barda and Lief seem quite naive, it's Jasmine who has to point out the obvious. Also, she is crucial to saving their lives in one scene, showing not just her bravery, but her cleverness.

Barda once again doesn't seem to have a real purpose. The only use he has is he becomes a translator of Manus. I could understand that, perhaps if he was a tagalong, like Jasmine. But Barda supposedly watched over Lief his whole life. And yet he isn't much help so far.

When Jasmine gets stuck in quicksand, Barda can't pull her out. Even though she is most likely half his weight and he is supposed to be rather big and tough. It's Lief who has to figure out a way to save her. And I could understand Lief's naivete in a certain incident, but Barda, a grown man, can't sniff out any hints of deception? I started to wonder why he was there.

NEW CHARACTERS

Manus is the man they end up rescuing. He cannot speak and communicates in writing. Barda translates for him. He is very grateful for the rescue and insists on guiding them to the lake of tears. He is also very brave.

Thaegen is the sorcerer that rules this area. Jasmine is afraid for Kree, because she killed the raven's family. Thaegen is invincible, because she wears armor, and the only way to kill her is to draw blood.

Soldeen is the monster that guards the Lake of Tears. He is more than he seems.

PACING

The pacing is just as good as the first book. Rodda uses many of her trademark, cliffhanger endings.

FORESHADOWING

There are multiple hints of foreshadowing such as the guard of the bridge they meet in the start of the book. The end result is a sign of things to come.

As well as the riddle that Lief has to solve. Make note of the names that are sung to him.

And there are times where the narrator steps in, saying that they "should have listened to Jasmine", or that "Lief would never forget what happened the next day", ect.

RIDDLES

There are a few direct riddles in the beginning (I had to stop and try to solve Lief's math riddle), as well as some indirect ones left for the reader to solve. There is also a deceiving sign. See if you can figure out what words are missing. Not to mention a secret language that you will probably be able to figure out even before Lief does.

THE CLIMAX-SPOILERS

One might feel cheated as it is not our heroes that defeat Thaegen, but they do the brunt of the work beforehand. The monster in the lake of tears was much more dramatic and requiring more thought than Thaegen. I am not sure how I feel about that, seeing how she was built up before hand. I wish that had played a part in her downfall.

I like all parts of stories to come from purposeful actions. I Would forgive an accident, but the whimsical act of Lief's led to a huge part of the story. It took a large coincidence to do so. Also, the truth about Soldeen also comes from a rather odd source, Lief proclaiming his willingness to die for his friends. Although in all honesty, this comes from his actions, not just his proclamation, so I can forgive that.

EXPLICIT CONTENT

The group comes across stolen items from those that were drugged and eaten by monsters.

CONCLUSION

Rodda creates another well paced story with unique monsters and likable characters. Her riddles and codes make her stand apart. But Barda still feels useless and we get cheated out of showdown with Thaegen. I give “Lake of Tears” three and a half stars.

Book Review: "The Forests of Silence" by Emily Rodda

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

Jarred and the young Prince of Deltora grow up together, but eventually are forced apart when he is crowned king. He waits till his friend calls him, but the kingdom is beyond saving from the the Shadow Lord by then. Eventually, Jarred and his wife have a son, who grows up. They ask him to set out on a quest to retrieve seven stolen items that will restore power to the king and free the land from oppression.

CAST OF CHARACTERS

Jarred grew up in the palace as the prince's best friend. He is rebellious, questioning the Rule about not leaving he castle, and is often considered a bad influence. But his curious nature leads him to learning about the Belt of Deltora and its powers.

Endon is a rather sheltered prince. He doesn't question the Rule about not being able to leave the Castle. Because of this, he is rather naive, and easily manipulated.

Lief grows up under the rule of the Shadow Lord, enforced by the Gray Guard. He thinks its unjust and is slightly perplexed to why his parents are so meek and obedient.

Barda is the son of the maidservant of the young prince. He escaped as a child. He is not quite sure that Lief is up to the task, and lets his speculation show sometimes. He has experience with fighting and monsters and Lief learns to follow his lead.

Jasmine has lived her life since childhood alone in the woods with only animals for company. Because of this, she is rather blunt and often loses her temper. She has rare abilities, like being able to hear tree's talk, as they often warn of danger. She becomes a guide for Barda and Lief.

PACING

The first part of the story is paced slower than the second part. We get a history lesson, which is important but slow. As well as Jarred waiting around for Endon, and becoming a blacksmith. But this part is brief.

FORESHADOWING

The author uses foreshadowing to break in different situations to urge the reader on. Often warning about trouble that is about to happen, or a mistake that has just been made.

STRUCTURE

The story is set up into two parts. In the first part we learn all about how the royal family came to neglect the belt. It is the first seven chapters in a sixteen chapter books, so a little less than half. You could argue that the first part is just a prologue, and could have been summarized. But it doesn't seem to distract from the main story in my view.

PUZZLES

A good part of the story are puzzles and riddles. And often times I found myself stopping and trying to solve them myself. They are not overly difficult, nor too easy. I was surprised to find I cared at all about solving them, as I have never had any fondness for riddles or puzzles growing up. But Rodda makes it fun.

LIEF THE HERO

There is one scene in the beginning of part two, where Lief gets mad about how he has to sneak around. He is mad that he has to live under the rule of the Shadow Lord. But it seems like a basic teenage rebellion, with not much depth behind it. So when he agrees right away to go on a quest, I was kind of taken aback. I felt if he had such deep convictions, it should have been explained better. Maybe he witnessed some terrible things done by the gray guards (they are mentioned, but in vague terms).

JASMINE THE GUIDE

Jasmine plays an important role, as she saves Barda and Lief. Also, she guides them to where the Topaz is. Basically, she is essential to the story. She even helps them in the end in an unbelievable way.

SHARN THE WIFE

There is a short scene with Sharn, Endon's wife. She calls out to Jarred, as if she knows him personally, which felt weird. And then she ends up doing something rather shocking. The scene felt odd. I guess it was to show us that Prandine, who served the shadow Lord, was not to be a real problem.

BARDA THE WHAT? SPOILERS

One other criticism I have is Barda. He doesn't have much of a role. He is supposed to be able to protect Lief, but he doesn't' really do much of anything. His one attempt to defeat an enemy ends in failure. His main role seems to realize that Lief is worth bringing with, as he admits in the end. Even so, he should have been shown as someone that Lief could admire and want to prove himself to for his good qualities. Note merely because he existed.

EXPLICIT CONTENT- SPOILERS

Lief witnesses some giants spiders being eaten alive. A man is thrown out of a window to his death.

CONCLUSION

Rodda paints a simple story with unique monsters and likable characters. The riddles and puzzles make it unique from other tales. I give “The Forest of Silence” three and half stars.