Jared,
Have you read this series? If not, you’re missing out. This is my second time and it’s been many years. I had initially liked them, but didn’t really love them. However, I am not completely convinced that these are wondrous.
Title: Rise of the Evening Star
Series: Fablehaven; Book 2
Author: Brandon Mull
Genre: Fantasy
Audience: Youth/Teen
ROTS Setting: EU, Modern, Magic, Fairies, Demons
Synopsis: Kendra and Seth returned from their summer at Fablehaven changed in more ways than one. When Kendra sees things she shouldn’t at school things rapidly spin out of control. When Fablehaven, filled with creature who could kill you at any turn, becomes the safest place for them things are only just getting started.
Recommendation: Highly recommend this series. Early teens and up can easily handle this book. I advise moderate caution with younger readers as there are some darker themes.
We’re back in the magical, and brutal, world of Fablehaven. It’s a good sequel and builds in many of the ways the first was weak. It advanced the main story but also provided an interesting story all on it’s own.
Kendra is still the main character, with Seth taking a secondary role again. Dealing with all the changes and craziness from that time there actually isn’t much change in Kendra herself. She begins exploring her own limits as and testing he abilities. On the other hand Seth is really growing and refining. He’s still an idiot and still can’t be trusted, but that’s changing as he matures and gains experience. Really, it’s Seth you need to keep an eye on as the series progresses, as his development is astonishing and much needed.
Their personalities still appear to be behind their actual ages in this book, although that difference is less noticeable and almost non-existent in the next book.
The world begins to broaden in this book and we find that it’s detailed and quite storied with many layers of history and related events. I think it’s genius how the first book focuses on hooking the reader, so it’s very focused before expanding to such a degree in the second book right when you’re looking for some depth.
When it comes to the plot, I can’t say much, but there are some important lessons learned in this book that will be needed and reinforced later in the series. For the plot it’s critical but for a reader it’s always fun trying to guess what happens next and why it is or isn’t happening. Simple enough to follow but complex enough to keep older readers engaged.
I have to say these new covers are stunning….if a little misleading. Kendra never goes near a fog giant. I don’t care too much
In summary, this is a very strong sequel book. It’s not surprising that this series took off after reading this. Solid characters, captivating world, complex plot and all infinity entertaining.
Robert
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