Fiction Addict

Genre: Adventure/Fantasy, Young Adult

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Publication Date: November 2009

Reviewed by Kaci Hill

I have a confession. I picked up The Curse of the Spider King without knowing what it was supposed to be about or having read anything by either of its authors. My ARC copy has no back cover description, either. In fact, it includes a handwritten note letting me know it wasn’t the final version and errors were already in correction. But that title just sounds like it’s going to be amazing, so I requested it. Like several I’ve reviewed lately, both Hopper and Batson were suggested to me by other authors whose works I am familiar with. Besides, where in the world is the adventure if I know exactly what to expect?

At any rate, the story fixed its hooks in me from page one, with a group of Elven Sentinels (an elite class soldier) heading through a portal into Earth to retrieve several missing persons after, in Allyra time, eight hundred years of searching. The problem, I soon discover, is twofold: these seven missing thirteen year olds (Earth time) don’t know they’re missing, and the enemy assassins sent to kill them are also closing in.

Two dimensions, two basic storylines. The kids’ stories are simply about their lives, turning thirteen, discovering they’re from another world and have incredible power. They’re each given a book of their own history—a book that comes alive (literally) as they read it. And in their readings we learn how seven Elflings came to be lost on Earth. That is, they learned the story of the Elves. In some ways, however, I felt the story really belonged to the Sentinels searching for them, largely because the kids really don’t know what’s going on for so long, and they join the battle pretty deep into it. Moreover, despite the large cast, for the most part I had no trouble enjoying the characters and keeping up with plot. I confess a couple times I had to flip back, but this was only once or twice.

The themes largely involve the intricate nature of the past and present. I read one review (remember, I read reviews after I read the book) that suggested it was a coming-of-age story, but I must respectfully disagree, for the aforementioned reasons. The book has several strong themes and resists any temptation to beat the reader to death with them, and some of that I fully expect to cross over into book two, Venom and Song.

One small thing regarding a particular review: I read one from a woman  who said she thought a boy would enjoy it better due to the action sequences, and I read a couple who thought adults wouldn’t enjoy it as much or relate to the characters as well. Please note, I am a twenty-six year old female, and I find such assessments poppycock. The story and characters were both engaging. In fact, the only other thing I could find to comment on was, really, that the ending of the story snuck up on me: I wasn’t quite expecting it to end where it did, but, with the primary goal of the story accomplished, that was where it needed to end. It actually reinforced, in my mind, the idea that it’s really about the Sentinels bringing the children home, not simply the children learning they’re Elves in a ‘coming of age’ fashion. Suffice it to say, I’m looking forward to Venom and Song, a bit anxiously, at that.

Review copy provided by Thomas Nelson Publishers.

Genre: Adventure/Fantasy, Young Adult

Publisher: Creation House

Publication Date: May 2009

Reviewed by Kaci Hill

There’s a verse in the Psalm 137 that reads, “If I forget you, O Jerusalem, may my right hand forget its skill.” For some reason, that was the thought I had as three teenagers anxiously spent their summer longing for Aeliana.

Four hundred and fifty years have passed since the last time Ryann, Liddy, and Terell were in Aeliana. At least, Aeliana time. In Mount Dora, it’s been three months. Summer is ending, and they’ve been scattered abroad, wondering when they’ll next receive their call across time and space. Again, Reinhold doesn’t write precisely what we might expect.

First, the opening chapter or two is spent lying in wait. Waiting for answers, it turns out, isn’t passive, but active, and takes every bit as much strength as receiving them.  Second, it isn’t Ryann who first sees the portal back to Aeliana. This intrigued me because, obviously, Ryann is the main character. He’s the one charged with the three gifts and has a guardian archangel named Gabriel.

Third, the kids are not the only ones who must exhibit faith this time, which leads to my next observation. Their parents must also learn trust and obedience in the God who sends their children. As before, what happens in Mount Dora affects what happens in Aeliana and vice versa—something many stories that involve world-hopping don’t have.

Once back in Aeliana, Ryann and his friends find themselves in the middle of a long-brewing fight. They discover two unicorns and a group of cruel half-dragons (Hugons), and a growing, ominous understanding that they understand prophecies the rest of Aeliana can’t yet. Ryann, Terell, and Liddy have matured over three months, both in their thinking and in their behavior. They have new friends—many of whom don’t get along—and a whole new set of problems to deal with. Faith, it appears, involves so much more than simply jumping off a cliff (though cliff-jumping is included).

The Shield of Faith is different than The King’s Sword in that they do spend more time in Aeliana, understandably. It’s longer, and more complicated.  But as with book one, it’s about much more than the physical, literal shield. If book one is about paradise, then book two is about redemption—who to trust, who to distrust; where loyalties really lie, despite what comes out of the mouth. The shield of faith, then, is found in who you follow.

And once again I can’t say too much more without giving things away. Suffice it to say, Ryann Watters and the Shield of Faith was a satisfactory sequel to The King’s Sword, and I’ll be looking forward to book three, Ryann Watters and the Belt of Truth.

Genre: Adventure/Fantasy, Young Adult

Publisher: Creation House

Publication Date: May 2008

Reviewed by Kaci Hill

I heard of Eric Reinhold by way of Donita Paul, Bryan Davis, Jonathan Rogers, and several others engaged in a Motiv8 Tour. As a result, I requested both Ryann Watters and the King’s Sword and its sequel at the same time to read and review. Honestly, I didn’t quite know what to expect. For me, the YA genre is simply fun. And a middle-schooler from a Christian home who receives a visit by night from the angel Gabriel giving him a mission from God, well, is fun. The same night, one of said boy’s classmates also receives a night-visitation . . . from a fallen angel. Both boys receive a mission and three gifts. Thus begins a quest for a missing sword.

Most intriguing, though, is that what happens next isn’t what either boy or reader expects. Much of the journey takes place, not in the brilliant paradise of Aeliana, but in the every-day lives of four sixth graders and their families. Part of Ryann’s journey is to learn to use the Word—the Word of God. The use of Scripture in The King’s Sword is natural and thematic—I found myself as moved as the kids. Moreover, having grown up in a Christian home myself, I found Ryann’s life, aside from attending public school (I attended a private Christian school), quite reflective of my own. Their journey is as much spiritual as it is physical, and Reinhold has a unique way of pulling the two together.

As far as the characters go, Ryann and his three friends are busy, active twelve-year-olds, but they’re also well-read and thoughtful. Their maturity shows through (as well as Eric’s non-indulgence in dramatics, which is a plus) in their ability to deal with and get over an issue, so that when one offends another, the situation is either handled in a timely manner or deemed no longer important. Grudges simply don’t have place among friends—something a good deal of contemporary movies and TV shows don’t seem to comprehend. (Likely one reason this struck me is the stark contrast to one such movie, where the characters seem incapable of getting over themselves in stereotypical teenager melodrama.) At any rate, it was simply pleasant to see Ryann remember that his offender is still his best friend.

I could go on about all of them. I found Drake, despite being an antagonist, also somewhat sympathetic. Ekron is dark and cruel; Gabriel is firm and kind. Ryann’s father is a minor character, but fully developed and active in his son’s life.

Alright, I can’t stand spoilers, and possibly have already come too close to a few, so I won’t say much more. Ryann certainly didn’t expect his story to go the way it did; and I didn’t either. Reinhold provided an excellent introduction to Ryann, Mount Dora, and Aeliana—I most definitely am looking forward to Ryann Watters and the Shield of Faith.

Genre: Suspense, Adventure, Young Adult

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Publication Date: December 2009

Reviewed by Jake Chism

Whirlwind is the fifth book in the Dreamhouse Kings series that follows the adventure of brothers Xander and David King as they travel through time via portals found in a secret hallway in their creepy, new house. And yes, that’s all I’m saying about the plot because the story is just too good to be described through any measly attempt on my part.

What I will divulge to Robert Liparulo’s salivating fans is this: When I read Timescape I was quick to crown it my favorite of the series so far. Of course that was before I read Whirlwind, and ladies and gentlemen we have a new favorite!!

I consistently find myself in awe of Liparulo’s ability to make each story better in this series, always ratcheting up the tension and mystery, giving us some answers here and there and more and more questions to keep up guessing.

As we’ve come to expect in previous installments, the time travel scenes are loads of fun brimming with wonder and possibility. What sets this book apart from the rest is the huge twist at the end that completely changes the course of this story. I never saw this coming, and I love the direction Liparulo is moving this story and the characters that I have fallen head over heels for.

Frenzy is the upcoming last book in this series, and if the events of Whirlwind are any indication, we are in for quite a ride. If you aren’t reading the Dreamhouse Kings novels you are truly missing out on top notch storytelling, dazzling adventure, and heroic characters worth cheering for. Young or old, it doesn’t matter. The Dreamhouse Kings series is a must read for any true fiction addict.

Genre: Suspense, Mystery, Young Adult

Publisher: Zondervan

Publication Date: October 2009

Reviewed by Jake Chism

Shaley O’Connor has always longed for the father she never knew. Being the teenage daughter of a rock star certainly has its perks, but Shaley would gladly trade all the glamour and spotlight for a chance to meet her dad. However, two of her friends have recently been murdered and it seems like her father may be behind it all. Shaley and her mom, Rayne, delve into the past looking for answers unaware that someone is coming for them both.

Last Breath takes up right where Always Watching left off and immediately we’re pulled in by the tight suspense and mystery surrounding Shaley. We’re treated to a great storytelling device this time around that gives us a glimpse into the past and propels the story ahead. The suspense and mystery elements are strong throughout and Shaley’s spiritual journey never seems forced or manufactured.  Rather the questions and doubts come across as a natural reaction to the fear and turmoil she is facing.

Brandilyn and Amberly Collins continue to shine in a young adult market that so desperately needs quality stories laced with positive messages. Though geared towards teen girls, this series can be picked up and enjoyed by anyone who loves great suspense. Give the Rayne Tour a try and see for yourself. You’ll be glad you did.

Don’t miss our interview with Brandilyn and Amberly Collins.

Genre: Suspense, Mystery, Young Adult

Publisher: Zondervan

Publication Date: May 2009

Reviewed by Jake Chism

Shaley O’Connor has the kind of life most girls would do anything for: A rock star mom, limitless wealth, and the celebrity status to boot. What teenager wouldn’t want to tour with one of the world’s most famous bands? Unfortunately, the fame soon loses its power and appeal when one of Shaley’s closest friends is murdered back stage at the latest concert. As new evidence comes to light she soon realizes her own life is in danger. Not knowing who to trust, Shaley turns to the God who has always seemed so far to help her in her greatest time of need.

Mother and daughter team Brandilyn and Amberly Collins have stormed onto the YA scene in exhilarating style with this great new series. Always Watching is a fast paced whodunit set against the intriguing backdrop of rock star celebrity. From the opening lines, we are immersed into Shaley’s exciting life as a celebrity’s daughter. It doesn’t take long for us to see that fame is not all its cut out to be. Indeed Shaley’s struggle to balance her public status with her true identity is one of the most interesting aspects of this story.

When you read Brandilyn Collins you expect mystery and thrills, and once again she doesn’t disappoint. Her adult fans will find much to rave about here, while new teen readers will love the youthful voice and perspective that Amberly Collins brings to the table. Underlying the tension and dread is a strong spiritual message about trusting in the God who is always watching over us. In the end we are left with the closure we long for and a promise of even more mystery to come. The Rayne Tour is in full swing and you can guarantee that I won’t miss a show.

Genre: Young Adult, Sci-Fi, Thriller, Adventure

Publisher: Scholastic

Publication Date: September 1^st, 2009

Reviewed by Jake Chism

Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark set the hearts of Panem on fire when they found a way to both win The Hunger Games and defy the evil Capitol. As they return home they discover that an uprising among the districts has begun and President Snow is doing everything in his power to quench it. Katniss and Peeta are beginning to realize that winning the Hunger Games by no means assures them of safety. In a desperate move President Snow wipes out any hope of protection and security for the two champions and their loved ones. Can the hope of a nation be silenced before the nation fights back?

Suzanne Collins left me in utter and complete awe with her phenomenal debut, The Hunger Games. With reckless abandon I tore into this sequel with strong hopes that I would be enthralled yet again. Thankfully, Collins does not disappoint. Not even close!

What I loved about Catching Fire was that Collins didn’t try to top herself. Instead of attempting to write a better novel, she focused on giving us even more story. The Hunger Games brought us so much action, romance, adventure, and suspense and all of those elements are found in perfect doses here. We’re actually treated to more character development this time around, making the aforementioned elements work seamlessly together.

I’ll admit that I expected the story to head in a different direction and I was a bit surprised when I realized exactly where Collins was taking us. Some might suggest this is a somewhat gimmicky move for a sequel, but Collins’s strong writing sold me completely on the idea and I never looked back. In the end we are left with a gut wrenching longing for the finale, where it seems like things are heading towards an explosive ending.

I am totally hooked on this series and I can’t wait to put these novels into everyone’s hands. If you’re looking for sharp storytelling, characters to root for, villains to loathe, and relentless action then this is the series for you.

Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Young Adult

Publisher: The Chicken House

Publication Date: September 26, 2008

Reviewed by Lori Twichell

What happens when the author of a story loses control of it? Does the story run amok? Or does the author? Does the author control the story or does the story control the author? These are some of the ideas explored by Cornelia Funke in Inkdeath, the stunning conclusion to her much loved Inkheart Trilogy.

When Fenoglio created characters that were evil incarnate and nearly too dangerous to be described, he never expected to find himself living under their rule in their Kingdom.  He never imagined that his world of fiction and fantasy would become life threateningly real to him. Even after arriving in his created world, he still doesn’t understand what bows to his words and what doesn’t, leading to even more mayhem and chaos as the story unfolds.

In this third installment of the Inkheart series, we again become reacquainted with our beloved friends from previous books. Mo, Resa, Elinor, Meggie and Farid all make their appearances in this book and in a much changed manner from how we met them in the previous books.  Where Mo began his journey through this tale as a bookbinder who believed that stories lived and breathed, he now finds himself a very real character in Fenoglio’s tale with danger and death following every breath he and his family takes. In an effort to make sure that Resa and Meggie are safe, Mo goes on a journey that appears to have salvation for everyone but himself.

Just as in her previous books, Funke weaves a gorgeous tale with words that come alive on the page and beg you to read them again and again. Inkdeath holds to the high standard that she set in previous books and delivers an ending that could move you to tears. Not because the ending is so utterly perfect and satisfying (even though it is) but because the story of these amazing characters and this brilliantly created world has come to an end.  It’s nearly heartbreaking to imagine that we won’t hear from Mortimer or Meggie or Resa again, but as Funke reminds us again and again throughout the Inkheart trilogy, stories don’t ever end. We just don’t know what happens once the book closes.

Genre: Young Adult, Adventure, Thriller, Sci-Fi

Publisher: Scholastic

Publication Date: October 2008

Reviewed by Jake Chism

In the future North America has vanished and a new nation called Panem has risen. Twelve districts are ruled by the Capitol, a tyrant ruling council that uses a yearly competition to keep order among its despondent citizens. Every year one boy and one girl from each district are chosen to compete in the Hunger Games where they must fight to the death. The location is always different, and every year the nation watches with bated breath to see who will be the last one standing.

In District 12, Katniss Everdeen looks on in horror as her younger sister is chosen to compete in this year’s games. Before she knows it she finds herself volunteering in her sister’s place. Also chosen is the mysterious baker’s son, Peeta, who Katniss has always known from a distance. As the competition nears Katniss and Peeta grow closer making the imminent battle for survival all the more complicated. This year Katniss and Peeta will capture the hearts of a hopeless nation as they turn the tables on The Hunger Games and the evil Capitol that controls them.

I am always on the lookout for that one story. You know what I mean. The one that gets in your head and won’t go away. The kind of book you want to put in everyone’s hands.  A story that has the power to completely mesmerize and capture your imagination. The Hunger Games has done all of that for me and more.

Collins hooks us from line one with the engaging first person narrative of Katniss Everdeen. Through her eyes we learn about this world in the distant future and the turmoil within. This is the kind of character that most novelists only dream of creating. Every turn of the page reveals just a little more about what drives her unquenchable spirit. Katniss may be low on the social ladder, but her compassion and fight for justice lend a majestic quality to this lowly peasant.

If Katniss herself doesn’t hook you, no doubt the relentless pacing will. Once the Games begin it is almost impossible to put this story down. Collins perfectly balances action, suspense, and violence throughout the second half of this story. As I was reading I felt like I, too, was watching these Games unfold along with the citizens of Panem and several times I wanted to stand and cheer for Katniss and Peeta and their heroic actions. In the end we are given the perfect amount of closure with a promise of more to come.

The Hunger Games might just be the best novel I’ve read this year and I am simply blown away by the storytelling prowess of Suzanne Collins. The sequel, Catching Fire, is due out soon and if early reviews are any indication, round two is even better. I can’t wait to disappear once more into this fascinating world that has captured my imagination in a way I never anticipated.

Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Young Adult

Publisher: AMG Publishers

Publication Date: 12 March 2009

Reviewed by Kaci Hill

I read the first three of Bryan Davis’ Dragons in Our Midst series one immediately after the other, and didn’t have long to wait on the fourth installment. It was about a boy who could breathe fire and a girl with dragon wings, a vile slayer, and a sorceress.  I say this because it’s really the beginning. His follow-up series, Oracles of Fire, begins with a prequel that covers the first few thousand years of human (and dragon) existence all the way into the present, overlaps the Dragons in Our Midst series, and ends shortly after. The other three Oracles of Fire books pick up where the previous left off. It’s a lot of ground and a long ride, but worth it. Davis began by taking King Arthur stories and turning them on their heels. Add a little technology, some evil sorceresses, and portals to every dimension from Heaven to Hell to a place called Second Eden, and, as you can imagine, it’s been a wild ride.

All of that to say, I’ve really enjoyed the ride, through all its twists and turns.  I’ve admittedly had reservations about some of the characters, as some don’t fully develop until later. Davis does allow us to watch the characters age and mature on all sides. Our fourteen-year-old heroes from Raising Dragons (Dragons in Our Midst) have left their teens behind and taken their places as warriors, both physically and spiritually.  I think my favorite character to see mature was Elam, the steadfast rock who’s lived a thousand years undaunted and never shaken. In The Bones of Makaidos we really get to see his mettle, as well as the deeper parts of his heart that were touched before but never dwelt on.

Let’s face it, The Bones of Makaidos had the weight of the world riding on it. Fans of the dragon books have followed this series for four years, seven books, and thousands of pages. So, needless to say, the author’s readers were dying of suspense about as badly as his characters.  I did find myself a little slowed down during part of Bonnie’s (the female lead) story, mostly because she spends so much time in one place. The subplot, to be honest, felt as if it was only there so Bonnie could have one particular scene with another character.

My other thought was that in one instance Bonnie puts pressure on Billy (the male lead) that I really didn’t think either fair, necessary, or truly in sync with who she is. (I leave out the details on purpose.)  On the other hand, however, I did appreciate her finally learning how to use a sword and fighting back to back with Billy. I think my reaction was “Finally!”  Moreover, in Billy we see the emergence of a spiritual leader in his coming of age, which has been something of a journey itself.

The only other thing I really would have done a little different is to go easy on chatty combatants. This is a personal thing on my part, but it’s a little distracting to have two opponents fighting to the death and spending so much time stopping to insult each other. It’s a personal preference, I suppose.

Overall, The Bones of Makaidos is a worthy ending to a good series. I’ve seen a few reviews commenting on the way it ends, but, really, Davis has yet to disappoint me with an ending, regardless of what I think about a few nuts and bolts. Again, The Bones of Makaidos is book four of The Oracles of Fire Series, so make sure to start with either the Dragons in Our Midst series or with The Eye of the Oracle, which is book one of The Oracles of Fire.

Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Young Adult

Publisher: Scholastic

Publication Date: April 1, 2007

Reviewed by Lori Twichell

When we last left Mortimer Folchart, his wife had returned from Inkworld, his daughter was home safe and everyone had mostly been given a wonderful ending to a fantastic tale. The exception to this ending would be Dustfinger, the fire eater that Mo had read out of his story nearly ten years earlier.

Armed with the only copy of “Inkheart” still in existence, Dustfinger sets out to find someone to read him back into his beloved Inkworld. Thankfully, we get to join him there. It is a world overflowing with magical creatures. Fairies that flit about constantly and steal your dreams, glass men who eat sand and fire eaters who whisper to the flames and make them obey.

It’s a world full of astounding beauty and magic, but danger equal to the pleasure. This time we find our beloved characters pulled out of their own lives and lost in Fenoglio’s “Inkworld” with far more intrigue, danger and adventure than they experienced the first time. Mo, who already lost his wife to the Inkworld once, is beyond dismayed to discover his daughter’s journey into this fantastical world. As he and Resa follow close behind, he discovers that his presence in the Inkworld is not by accident or mistake. He’s already known there. What does a simple bookbinder have to do with Inkworld? He’s about to find out a larger and deeper destiny.

I didn’t imagine that Cornelia Funke could possibly delight me more than she had when I read Inkheart. Full of passion and adventure, I couldn’t believe that her story could be more intriguing or more fun to read but I am thrilled to report that in this instance, I was wrong. As enamored as Meggie and Farid become with Inkworld, I fell even more in love with the strange land and the characters created by Funke. More adventure, more excitement, more danger and incredible new villains that send the story to heights unrivaled meant that I had a very difficult time even putting this book down. I ended up reading through nearly 500 pages in the course of two days, even sobbing through some parts of it.

I can’t help but shake my head that this is considered young adult or juvenile literature. The storylines are exquisitely crafted, the descriptions are very nearly living breathing creations and the characters are beloved friends.  The final book, Inkdeath, is waiting for me to open the cover and be swallowed into its adventure. I admit that part of me is holding my breath, wondering where Funke will take me this time and the other part isn’t quite ready to start this final volume. I think I will savor this book and taste each word as I experience the end to this fantastical journey.

Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Young Adult

Publisher: Scholastic

Publication Date: June 1^st, 2005

Reviewed by Lori Twichell

Mortimer Folchart (Mo) isn’t your ordinary book binder or book doctor as his daughter, Meggie, refers to him. The title fits. He cares for books as gently as any doctor caring for a patient. But Mo has a talent that sets him apart from the ordinary. He can read books to life. Literally.

Years ago Mo discovered his talent for bringing the written word to life while reading the book “Inkheart” to his young daughter. One moment he was quietly reading in the peace of his living room and the next he was surrounded by Basta, Dustfinger, and the evil Capricorn, all pulled from the pages and standing before his family, very much alive. No longer trapped by ink and paper, they were now free to roam through Mo’s world. Horrified, Mo tried to read them back into the book, but it was to no avail. Mo had no control over who came out of the book and, far worse than that, much to Mo’s horror, he discovered that when something came out of the book, something else went back in to replace it. This is when Mo decided that he would never, ever read aloud again.

Now, nearly a decade later, Mo and his now teenaged daughter Meggie cross paths with Inkheart’s characters once more. Capricorn wants Mo to read more of his evil friends out of the book and Dustfinger wants desperately to go back home and both of them need Mo to do this.

The adventure that Cornelia Funke has woven in this tale is beautiful, brilliant and one that every book lover will enjoy without a doubt. (And every author will wish they’d created.) Funke’s reverence and love of the written word fills every page. I couldn’t help but be drawn in as I followed her on this journey. Her description flows around you and pulls you into her world much as Mo’s voice pulls characters from their own world and into his.

I was delighted as I read this book and though I don’t always have as much time for reading as I’d like, I had a very difficult time putting this book down. The adventure is harrowing in places, heart wrenching in others and makes you laugh out loud often. I love the fact that Funke created her own world but that it was grounded in our own geography and great works of literature. The story takes place in Italy and Funke reintroduces us to several major characters from classic works of art, allowing us to experience them in a whole new way. Inkheart is the first in a trilogy of books followed by Inkspell and Inkdeath and I can’t wait to see what happens next.

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Publication Date: June 2nd, 2009

Reviewed by Jake Chism

Five years after Elyon’s waters have turned red The Circle is on the verge of extinction. The only ones who know of the plot are The Scabs who are behind it, Johnis, Silvie, and Darsal. Johnis and Silvie have been fighting a war they are ultimately losing, while a newly drowned Darsal has been sent on an impossible mission to love the unlovable. In the background a sinister evil lurks, pulling all the strings and devising a plan that will annihilate the Horde as well as The Circle. Hope can only be found at the bottom of Elyon’s red water, and it’s up to Darsal to convince those she loves to dive in and drown.

Ted Dekker and Kaci Hill have done just what we hoped they would: they’ve saved the best for last. Elyon is everything I wanted in a finale complete with relentless action, gut wrenching tension, and stirring emotion all leading up to a powerhouse conclusion. Dekker has long proven that he knows how to end a story and from the opening lines we know that we are in for another treat.

Again, I was captivated by Darsal in this story as she struggles with the overwhelming task of doing the unthinkable and figuring out a way to save her friends. The villains are nastier than ever here making the journey that much more riveting and wonderfully excruciating.  Pacing is everything in a series like this, and I challenge anyone to stop reading during the final act of Elyon.

Not only has Dekker solidified his standing as storyteller extraordinaire, but he has introduced his fans to the talented writing of Kaci Hill. Together they shine as they give hungry fans exactly what they wanted and more. In the end…well, let’s just say the end has Dekker written all over it. This one is sure to have long time fans foaming at the mouth in anticipation for the highly anticipated beginning and end to The Circle Series, Green.

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Publication Date: June 2nd, 2009

Reviewed by Jake Chism

It’s been five years since Elyon’s lakes have turned red. Johnis, Silvie, and Darsal arrive back in Other Earth with the Books of History in tow, only to find out life has changed drastically. Thomas and The Circle are nowhere to be found and Middle has been taken over by The Horde. With their lives on the line these three warriors must find a way to thwart the Horde’s evil plans, all the while trying to keep themselves from becoming Scabs. To make matters worse, Johnis comes face to face with a whole new evil that holds power beyond belief. The Chosen One must prevail or all hope is lost.

So you’ve written a best selling series that just happens to tie in to your most beloved work. While the masses are convinced this series is over, you decide to come back in style and deliver two more final installments that no one saw coming. What’s the best way to come back with a bang? I’m not sure I know the answer, but I’m almost certain most authors would not bring on a debut novelist to collaborate with. Fortunately for us, Ted Dekker is not most authors. While this move might seem risky on the surface, I think bringing Kaci Hill on is the best move Dekker has made since he thought up The Lost Books.

Lunatic is a dark story to be sure, but a masterful tale nonetheless. We of course get to spend time with our favorite heroes and I especially loved the personal journey Darsal sets out on in this story. Johnis and Silvie are as engaging as ever as they struggle through a new battle that has the potential to destroy them both. The Horde are given more screen time in Lunatic as we get even more insight into Scab life. Dekker and Hill bring us their best work with the introduction of a new villain that is unlike anything we’ve seen in Other Earth.

In many ways Lunatic feels like The Empire Strikes Back of the series which only bodes well for the conclusion, Elyon. I love the way that Ted Dekker and Kaci Hill have taken a familiar story and upped the ante on all accounts with more action, more intrigue, and ultimately more emotion. Hill somehow manages the daunting task of bringing uniqueness to the story without taking away any of the Dekker feel we all love so much.

Risky? Maybe. A bold move? Sure. The right move? No doubt about it.

Genre: Young Adult, Mystery

Publisher: Scholastic

Publication Date: February 10th, 2009

Reviewed by Jake Chism

Ryan McCray and Sarah Fincher always felt like something strange was happening in their hometown of Skeleton Creek. Their fears are fully realized one fateful night when they decide to sneak around in the old mining dredge in the woods. Ryan finds something that is so terrifying it sends him over a rail into the darkness below. The next thing he knows he is in a hospital bed with a broken leg and a fuzzy memory about what he saw.

Ryan and Sarah’s parents decide to separate them as punishment, but the mystery behind the dredge proves to be too much to keep them apart. Since Ryan is housebound, Sarah captures her investigation on film so Ryan can see everything she discovers about the dredge. Likewise, Ryan spends his days researching Skeleton Creek online, finding more questions than answers. Everything they find leads them back to the dredge and the dark secret hidden inside. If they go back they may find the answers, but they may not make it out alive.

When I first saw Skeleton Creek on the shelf I thought it was a DVD because of the clever packaging. I then realized it was a book and read the description. A novel that uses online videos to tell the complete story? And a ghost/mystery story at that? My interest was more than piqued and I was all in.

Patrick Carman is a storyteller extraordinaire and from the opening lines we are effortlessly sucked into Ryan and Sarah’s story. The book element of this story is written in journal form from Ryan’s perspective. Carman really nails the first person narrative here and actually makes you feel like you are reading a journal. The design of the book and the handwriting font all work together well to sell the idea.

Throughout the story we are presented actual passwords to a website where we get to see the videos Sara shares with Ryan. The video element of the story is a really fun and imaginative way to get us more involved. I was very impressed with the quality of the videos and how effective they were. Even though this is a young adult story, I’m not ashamed to admit I jumped more than once during the creepiest scenes.

While this is classified as young adult fiction, I would strongly urge parents to read the book and watch the videos before your children. The story is clean, but some of the subject matter is quite intense and the videos have some really frightening moments.

Skelton Creek is the first book in this new series and Patrick Carman leaves things wide open for Book 2. Literary purists might scoff at this new storytelling concept. All I know is how much fun I had with this whole experience. I can’t imagine how much work goes into creating a project like this. In the end, the results are what matters and Skeleton Creek works on every level.

Genre: Adventure, Young Adult

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Publication Date: July 14th, 2009

Reviewed by Jake Chism

Things just became a little more complicated for Xander and David King. Not only is their mother still missing, but a sobering look into the future reveals that much more is at stake. As Xander and David search for answers within the time portals they find an unexpected ally who sheds more light on the house and the greater mission they have been called to. With a renewed sense of purpose the King family decides to turn the tables and go after Taksidian to put a stop to the evil plans he has put into motion.

As this series unfolds I continually find myself in awe of Robert Liparulo’s ability to not just write amazing stories, but also his ability to get better with each offering. Timescape is easily the best novel of the Dreamhouse Kings series, showcasing the most intense action sequences and the most gut wrenching suspense we’ve seen. Two of the time portal scenes were actually crafted from ideas students entered into the Dream the Scene contest on Liparulo’s website. In masterful fashion, Liparulo pulls out all the stops making these scenes the most memorable of the series so far.

In a young adult market saturated by commercialism, mediocrity, and unoriginality it’s refreshing to find a series like this that is not only fun to read but also challenging and engaging. These are the kind of books families can love and share together, and no matter your age you will find yourself easily immersed into this marvelous world of adventure that Liparulo has crafted. Once again Robert Liparulo reminds me of the beauty of story and why I love to read.

Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Young Adult

Publisher: WaterBrook Press

Publication Date: June 2nd, 2009

Reviewed by Kaci Hill

A few years ago I fell in love with Donita Paul’s DragonKeeper Chronicles, recommended to me by a friend. Paul has a unique ability to combine fantasy, adventure, and faith in such a way as to explore deep themes in an inventive way that isn’t overwhelming. Truth be told, she’s one of three writers who really introduced and sold me on fantasy. Her primary audience is young adult, but “all ages” better suits.  The DragonKeeper introduced us to the complex continent of Amara, and The Vanishing Sculptor, sometime before the DragonKeeper, involves Wulder’s coming to the distant continent of Chiril in the same world. Here, an emerlindian girl named Tipper meets two Amarans who pull her into a plot that involves saving both her father and the world from a broken gateway (which behaves something like a wormhole or portal) threatening to suck everything in itself.

I’ll admit – the cover copy says none of this—it says, in fact, very little of the actual story, for the better, in my opinion. And I’ll admit Paul very cleanly veiled my eyes (either that or the sun fried my thinking abilities) to the ultimate purpose, so that I was just as blind as Tipper and her friends as to what in the world Wulder (and Paul) was up to. Regardless, Paul is a former teacher who has a magnificent command of her stories, weaving in a myriad of tiny details that dare not be overlooked, because those small things are very likely to involve a surprise. Her ability to thread together truth and creativity in such a seamless fashion has been and will be something I admire (and, who knows, maybe I’ll learn a trade trick or two).

The book does seem to rely a little bit on readers being familiar enough with Amara to understand some of the story world, but nothing distracting, I don’t think. The characters supply sufficient information. Also, Paul treated DragonKeeper lovers to two much loved characters (whom I will not name here), a nice little surprise to look forward to. And if you haven’t read either series, you really should.

Donita Paul has been and continues to be one of my favorites, and I look forward to whatever else she has up her sleeve.

Genre: Young Adult, Thriller

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Publication Date: April 28th, 2009

Reviewed by Jake Chism

The last thing Charlie West remembers is going to sleep after one of the best days of his life. That morning he wowed his high school classmates with a black belt demonstration at school, only to have the girl of his dreams write her phone number on his arm. Later in the day Sensei Mike encouraged Charlie to follow his dream of being an Air Force pilot, and even an argument with his friend Alex couldn’t take away the buzz of an unforgettable day. Charlie falls asleep on top of the world only to wake up strapped to a chair battered, bruised, and bloody. As Charlie tries to make sense of the situation he soon discovers he is being held captive by men who want him dead. Using his black belt skills he finds a way to escape only to find out things are much worse than he could have ever imagined.

Edgar Award winner Andrew Klavan takes his first foray into young adult fiction with this riveting first installment of The Homelanders series. This is a fast paced thrill ride carried effortlessly along by the first person narrative of Charlie West. From the intriguing opening hook we are whisked along on an action packed jaunt that is full of twists and turns and is impossible to put down.

In the midst of the shootouts and riveting hand to hand combat scenes, Klavan builds character depth through Charlie’s flashbacks of the last day he remembers. We soon find out that Charlie is not just a good kid, but someone that has a strong faith and a great love for his country. It’s these solid foundations that help Charlie find the strength to face the overwhelming circumstances in front of him.

The Last Thing I Remember does everything the first book in a series should. It grabs our attention with a hero to root for and delivers a plot that will have readers begging for more in the end. Andrew Klavan gives action thriller fans a story they will love, laced with some powerful messages of honor, duty, and sacrifice. This is only the beginning for Charlie West and I can’t wait to see what’s in store next.