Rhett McLaughlin & Link Neal: The Lost Causes of Bleak Creek (2019)

    Rex and Leif are forced to question everything they know about their unassuming hometown and its cherished school for delinquents (Goodreads).

    It takes some time for the first-time novelists to gain their footing, but when they do, the result is spectacular. The first few chapters are slightly convoluted and too full of establishing shots of characters, places, and backstories, but as soon as the real plot gets underway, Bleak Creek suddenly becomes home to a brilliantly crafted, eerily executed adventure, complete with all the humour one would expect from a book by these two. Being a fan of their other endeavours certainly enhances the reading experience, but without previous knowledge it is still an enjoyable story. The action builds well, and although the general plot is a little contrived, the two authors manage to keep it original and engaging. The characters certainly find their foothold in terms of development and the main antagonist gains in depth as well, with a plan that is akin to Doctor Who combined with Stephen King. The novel ends with an action-packed climax and an epilogue that thankfully does not rule out a sequel. 8.4/10

Eoin Colfer: The Fowl Twins (2019)

    This Fowl adventure is filled with the most unusual of individuals: an immortal duke, a miniature troll, a nunterrogator and a Police Specialist that's 42% elf. And of course, the Fowl twins (Goodreads).

    Not only does Colfer return to the world of Fowl in this spinoff tale, he also returns to form as he showcases just how truly mesmerizing his writing can be (no pun intended). The two leads are engaging and play well off of each other with a mix of heart and wit, and the plot is engaging throughout with Colfer's signature quippy narration. The rest of the cast isn't quite as remarkable, but they do their jobs well enough. The story differentiates itself from the original series just enough to be original, while maintaining the original charm and smarts needed in a Fowl story. Disbelief must be suspended slightly too much here, and the final climax goes on a little too long, but overall, the narration and Fowl nature of Colfer is what really shines and makes this book a worthy continuation of the original bestselling series. 8.0/10

Rick Riordan: The Tyrant's Tomb (2019)

    In his penultimate adventure, a devastated but determined Apollo travels to Camp Jupiter, where he must learn what it is to be a hero, or die trying (Goodreads).

     This penultimate installment of Riordan's Apollonian series continues the trajectory of its predecessors in that it is quite good. Admittedly, the second was lackluster, but for the most part, this series has been a bright spot in the ever expanding Percy Jackson universe. The humour in this one hits better than its immediate predecessor (the arrow of Dodona is a hit, as well as more meta-jokes), and Apollo's continued character development as he encounters many of his past mistakes also furthers the series' depth. Riordan still utilizes most of the same formula as has proven to be successful, but this one is original enough to stay intriguing. Overall, Riordan has obviously found a groove, and is playing it relatively safe by sticking to that, with hints of originality here and there. Most of the subsequent books after the original series have begun to blend together as a result. 7.8/10

Stephen R. Lawhead: The Sword and the Flame (1983)

    Quentin reigns as the Dragon King and faces the insidious attack of evil from within himself when Nimrood holds his son hostage (Goodreads).

    The first two novels being relatively lackluster, Lawhead concludes his fantasy trilogy on a surprisingly pleasant note, showcasing much more complex and intriguing character development that is thought out well and an equally enjoyable plot with just the right amount of detail and layering. The new additions to the supporting cast are well utilized, although the main antagonist does not live up to expectations, and some of the main character's side-quests seem a bit pointless. Although it does surpass its predecessors in terms of quality, this third novel also seems very disconnected from the first two in terms of series continuity and overall structure. That being said, one cannot ignore its relative superiority. Overall, that’s obviously not saying much, as the first two were quite poor. 6.9/10

Scott Westerfield: Behemoth (2010)

    Dr Barlow and Deryn deliver their precious cargo to the Sultan, but their peace-keeping mission goes unexpectedly - and disastrously - awry (Goodreads).

    The world building continues to shine in Westerfield's series as this sequel continues to expand and introduce new elements and characters to the unique alternate history. The plot remains relatively simple (though still enjoyable) and the characters follow suit. The romantic aspects are pointless and add nothing to the story, and some of the cultural explorations and character beliefs around them are questionable, but again, the concepts and unique mechanical and organic beasts are the real selling point of the series, and it is worth noting that the illustrations depicting said things are also very well done. Overall, Behemoth stays consistent with its predecessor in showcasing, if not the most amazing plot or characters, wonderful and imaginative vessels (quite literally) for the weaker aspects of the novel to ride the success of. 8.3/10

    

James Frey & Nils Johnson-Shelton: Rules of the Game (2016)

        Two keys have now been found, and the remaining Players must find the final key—before Endgame brings about the ultimate destruction (Goodreads).

    In this concluding installment, the two authors are able to retain a quality of overall consistency that has become increasingly evident with each novel. Consistently good writing is at the forefront, as the authors showcase excellent prose with a good variety of pacing, although as usual it shines amidst the fast-paced action. The international scope of the series is also displayed extremely well, and although the cast becomes smaller for obvious reasons, it still maintains a wide variety of different characters, each of whom are well fleshed out (with the exception of the aliens). On that note, it must be acknowledged that the more science fiction aspects of the book remain consistent with the rest of the series in that it is the weakest link. All in all, though, a satisfying conclusion. 8.2/10

Rick Yancey: The Last Star (2016)

    In these last days, Earth’s remaining survivors will need to decide what’s more important: saving themselves…or saving what makes us human (Goodreads).

    Rarely is such a fall from grace seen in a series as the one in Yancey's young adult science fiction trilogy. It is all too clear that the author hoped to expand his plot, backstories, relationships, and antagonists, but unfortunately this concluding novel has one wishing for the admittedly simpler, but far more enjoyable harrowing alien survival tale of the first installment. The Last Star is nothing more than a filler novel, something a concluding piece should definitely not be, as the plot is convoluted, reasons for character's actions are blurred, and the various romance subplots are wince-inducing. No notable additions in the cast are added, and the whole climax and conclusion seem utterly sudden and ultimately pointless, leaving one with a disconcerting sense of dissatisfaction. Yancey writes well enough, and his prose is often quite professional, but the smooth diction does little to clear up a convoluted and disappointing plot. 6.5/10

James Frey & Nils Johnson-Shelton: Sky Key (2015)

    Sky Key—wherever it is, whatever it is—is next. And the nine remaining Players will stop at nothing to get it (Goodreads)

    Once again, the immense task that the authors undertake must be acknowledged: Having so many characters, each with their own intricate plot and backstory is not an easy undertaking, but as in the first novel, the duo of writers handles it extremely well, as each character has a unique and well developed story, complete with the signature action scenes where the writing really flourishes. That being said, the whole thing is a bit too similar to the first novel in general, as both share the same story structure and pacing. The only thing that might set this second book apart is the further development of the alien lore, but that is unfortunately not done well and just adds an unnecessary element to an already packed novel. The first novel was good, of course, but this second one feels a bit like a convoluted remix, rather than a sequel. All in all, though, the fast-paced plot and dynamic characters enable readers to stay invested in the trilogy leading up to the final novel. 8.1/10

Paul Stewart & Chris Riddell: The Descenders (2019)

    Quove’s deadly agenda has finally caught up with Cade, and now he must leave his home and flee once more, this time to the legendary floating city of New Sanctaphrax (Goodreads).

    A slightly convoluted plot aside, this final installment of Stewart and Riddell's epic series must first and foremost be regarded for what it truly represents: The immense scale and magnitude of how far the co-authors have come in their development of the Edge itself. The scale at which the series comes to be written is admirable, and though the tenth novel gave a small piece of this, it left something to be discovered, and this thirteenth novel fulfills it. Upon first inspection it is easy to see the flaws: the slower pace, the exorbitant amount of characters, and the lack of a strong antagonist, but in taking a step back to examine this conclusion in the overall scope of the series prompts a much greater appreciation. That being said, the flaws still have an impact on the quality, of course, so it is by no means a perfect novel. Overall, though, it is a much more thought-provoking and serene novel than perhaps any of its predecessors, and yet it still manages to unite the tales prior to it, although perhaps with too many endings in all of the loose endings needing to be tied up. Those tallow-hats are also pretty sweet. 8.3/10

Paul Stewart & Chris Riddell: Beyond the Deepwoods (1998)

    Abandoned at birth in the perilous Deepwoods, Twig Verginix is brought up by a family of woodtrolls. One cold night, Twig does what no woodtroll has ever done before – he strays from the path (Goodreads).

     In terms of world-building and visual accompaniments, Stewart and Riddell's series is perhaps unparalleled. Countless fantastical creatures being unveiled through the eyes of a relatable and likable protagonist in Twig is a foolproof strategy used brilliantly by the authors. The countless adventures he experiences throughout the plot might seem a bit repetitive after a while, but the imagination and variety implemented in each is enough to make them each unique in their own right. The fast paced, high-stakes adventures are balanced out with slower ones which also serve to develop Twig's character, and so pacing is far from an issue, but that being said, there is some room for character development overall. The climax on the Edge itself is executed well, with the final declaration of independence from our protagonist being a solid emotional moment. Although the authors do not gamble on much in terms of development and plot, the imagination showcased in the world they set up make it an excellent novel. 8.6/10

James Frey & Nils Johnson-Shelton: The Calling (2014)

    When the game starts, the players will have to find three keys. The keys are somewhere on earth. The only rule of their Endgame is that there are no rules (Goodreads).

     Having not read The Hunger Games, I was able to read this novel pretty much unbiased, but from what I know of Collins' series, Frey's story is definitely not the same. With that out of the way, this novel was very enjoyable. Each character is developed well, and the frequent swapping between them leads to near-perfect pacing. Having so many competitors be morally ambiguous is also a plus, as each has near equal rights to the title of protagonist. Obviously some are more villainous than others, but overall, a wide variety of characters, some meeting their end as a subversion of expectations, is utilized extremely well. That being said, there are perhaps too many main characters. Dealing with so many is obviously a daunting task, and the authors dealt with it relatively well, but problems still arise as so many names could possibly become jumbled in the reader's mind. The "normal outsider" character is definitely a good addition, however, and provides a refreshing break in the midst of supernatural circumstances. Overall, the premise is good, the lore is slightly underdeveloped, but character variety and diversity sets the Endgame series apart in its introductory novel. 8.4/10

Rick Yancey: The Infinite Sea (2014)

    As the 5th Wave rolls across the landscape, Cassie, Ben, and Ringer are forced to confront the Others’ ultimate goal: the extermination of the human race (Goodreads).

It's not as good as the first one. Not by a long shot. That isn't to say it doesn't have its moments, but for starters, it's just not nearly as long. A sequel should be able to build on its predecessor in more ways than one, but this novel barely expands on the dystopian world set up in the first. For one, it's supposed to have been a worldwide apocalypse, right? Unfortunately, the author only details a select few frustratingly 'special' Americans (not that Americans can't be special). The plan of the antagonists is also overcomplicated, as if the author went a little overboard on the amount of layers and deception he wanted in the novel. And don't get me started on the romances. Luckily, the pacing picks up towards the end and new perspectives make the narration unique and enjoyable. The action is very well dictated, if a little overwhelming, and the symbolism and allegories are well-crafted, if a little obvious. Overall, though, there's not much development as a whole, and the novel might have been better merged into the first or third installments. 7.3/10

George Orwell: 1984 (1949)

    Winston Smith works for the Ministry of truth in London, chief city of Airstrip One. Big Brother stares out from every poster, the Thought Police uncover every act of betrayal (Goodreads).

    When one ignores the large political treatise slapped in the middle of the novel, 1984 is perhaps unparalleled in terms of its poignancy and overall cultural impact throughout the years. Orwell's vision of a dystopian future puts the modern plethora of young adult apocalypse fiction to shame, mostly because it is just so incredibly hopeless (the actual story, that is). Orwell creates a legendary subversion of expectations with his incredibly grey, monotone story that is somehow able to resonate so wonderfully and colourfully with the real world. The parallels between The Party and various fascist regimes of history are pretty obvious, and Winston, our protagonist is, at times, frustratingly dry, but Orwell is still able to craft a novel that seems devoid of all majesty, which in turn, makes it all the more horrifyingly majestic. 8.6/10

Scott Westerfield: Leviathan (2009)

    Aleksandar Ferdinand, a Clanker, and Deryn Sharp, a Darwinist, are on opposite sides of the war. But their paths cross in the most unexpected way, taking them both aboard the Leviathan on a fantastical, around-the-world adventure (Goodreads).

    Although the two separate plotlines are not entirely original, Westerfield showcases his creativity in what the main focus of the novel seems to be: world building. Combined with splendid illustrations, Westerfield crafts a uniquely intriguing alternate history, and is able to merge historical fact with well integrated creative liberties with regard to actual world events. As for the steampunk aspect of it, well, he crafts that equally as well, with descriptions of technology that enriches the story while not being overly wordy (some of the made-up slang could use a little work, though). Both main characters carry their respective stories well, although they are not really balanced by a compelling antagonist, and perhaps not an uncompelling one either. The ending seems slightly abrupt, and it sets up a clear expansion, but may have possibly benefited from a bit more resolution. All this being said, the writing in and of itself really just reaches the satisfactory level, with instances of both great and weaker descriptions littered here and there. 8.3/10

Rick Yancey: The 5th Wave (2013)

    It's the dawn of the 5th wave, and on a lonely stretch of highway, Cassie runs from Them. The beings who only look human, who roam the countryside killing anyone they see (Goodreads).

     The novel does fall into the ever popular trap that teen dystopian fiction so often does, that being a tiresome romance and self-absorbed protagonist, but luckily, Yancey digs himself and his novel out of this hole by using a shovel comprised of fantastic plot development and action packed sequences that manage to stay unique one after another. The pacing is well done, except for one character's plotline which seems to be stagnant for too long at one point. Particularly in the first act, the use of flashback is utilized so extremely well, that characters barely introduced are able to have an emotional foothold in the story. Dictated with a brutal eloquence, the antagonists are well executed and remain mysterious enough for the sequels to be desired, although this could be a fault in that the antagonists are not quite fleshed out as much as they should. Overall though, the brilliantly disturbing aliens become just one of the features that make Yancey's novel succeed. 8.5/10

Ben Tripp: The Accidental Highwayman (2014)

    Mistaken for Whistling Jack and on the run from redcoats, Kit is catapulted into a world of magic and wonders he thought the stuff of fairy tales (Goodreads).

     Unlike real life, in the world of Kit Bristol, not everything is better with magic. Tripp's novel starts out reasonably well, with a fun, swashbuckling tale of highway robbery and a cool horse, but as soon as magic begins to develop, it loses a lot of its charm. The magical universe Tripp proposes is not well integrated, and the actual concept of it isn't really all that original. It appears that the author felt like adding a 'G' at the end of 'goblin' is what passes for originality. All that being said, the story becomes fairly engaging as it goers along, and once one gets past the cliche magical exploration. There isn't a whole lot of dynamic character development that isn't presented in an obvious manner, but the characters do begin to endear themselves to readers (barring any mention of a pointless love triangle). An unnecessary amount of main antagonists are added, and the dull politics that they accompany are no more intriguing. Without the magic (which sounds like a terrible thing to say) and with at least one less antagonist, Kit Bristol's tale might have been made a bit more compelling. As it is, though, it might be the very definition of enjoyably average. 6.8/10

S. Andrew Swann: Dragon Thief (2015)

    In a fit of drunken self-pity, Frank turns to using a cursed artifact, hoping to become a man again, if only temporarily (Goodreads).

     The sequel to Dragon Princess seems to disregard what character development previously took place, but it does make up for that in terms of character development in its own right, as all of the main protagonists go through at least some well developed changes. The humour of this second installment isn't executed quite as well as that of its predecessor, but in terms of plot complexity and the evoking of emotion, it far surpasses it. The politics of Swann's world, along with the body-switching concept that he manages to keep fresh, makes the plot much more intriguing, although not without its faults. The plot increasingly gets more convoluted as more and more characters reveal ulterior motives, and while this does increase the sophistication, to a point, it also makes the novel slightly harder to stay with. That being said, it is still engaging, as new character introductions increase the emotion of the piece and add a whole lot more depth. Swann executes this depth with a fair amount of ability, but he almost adds too many layers to the whole story, each of them probably good and sensible in their own right, but mashed together in a rather fast-paced adventure is likely not the best application. 7.9/10

John Bellairs: The House with a Clock in Its Walls (1973)

    Lewis Barnavelt comes to live with his Uncle Jonathan and quickly learns that both his uncle and his next-door neighbor are witches on a quest to discover the terrifying clock ticking within the walls of Jonathan's house (Goodreads).

    Although at first glance, the novel is a short and sweet tale of magic and friendship, Bellairs' book is much more when examined further. He creates an extremely endearing protagonist in Lewis, with far more complex story elements than one might first expect from a children's novel of this length. That being said, the plot isn't quite as interesting as it could have been, but thanks to the lead of Lewis and Bellairs' jaunty writing style, it is an intriguing read nonetheless. The rules of the magic in this universe are not really explained well enough, but that's a trivial manner when it comes to children's fantasy. What really sets this book apart is the slight elements of, not necessarily horror, but unease. The kind that makes the reader slightly unsettled, a sort of nonchalant gruesomeness. The antagonists and their backgrounds are also not fleshed out quite as much as they should be, but tidbits of humour and a charming lead character do detract from the negatives. 8.0/10

Pittacus Lore: Fugitive Six (2018)

    Escape into a world where humans possess astonishing powers and Taylor's adventure continues into even more dangerous grounds (Goodreads).

     Although it retains some of the problems from the first book, those being too many main characters and plotlines to keep track of, this second installment executes the rest of the novel with much more precision and charm. Each of the characters is developed well, although all of the different plots start to bleed into one another and almost seem too similar. That being said, this sequel is much more fast-paced and overall more interesting than its predecessor. Each of the groups vying for power are, in their own unique ways, intriguingly imperfect, and the main characters' separation early on leads to a climactic confrontation in a very Monsters Of Men-esque fashion. The climax in question, while undoubtedly exciting, is a tad convoluted and messy, but the fashion in which it resolves leads to a suspenseful cliffhanger that will surely leave readers begging for more. The characters integrated from the previous series are showcased decently, some more than others, but the new additions fall a little flat. With unique character dynamics and a riveting plot, the new Generation of Lorien seems to be taking off. 8.4/10

Stephen King: The Gunslinger (1982)

    Pursuing the man in black, an evil being who can bring the dead back to life, Roland is a good man who seems to leave nothing but death in his wake (Goodreads).

     I did literally fall asleep while reading this, but that may have been merely due to my overtired nature at the time. That being said, a lot of this first installment of the Dark Tower series was extremely dull. Luckily, it picks up the pace through the last third of the novel, and the climax, a bit underwhelming in itself, is, at the very least, quite thought-provoking. Unfortunately, the main character is rarely redeeming enough for readers to be invested in his journey, and there are perhaps a few too many flashbacks into a world that is not well established in the slightest. Several interesting concepts are implemented, and King writes with an intriguing tone of articulate vulgarity, which does provide some unique moments. There are some scenes which are well described and quite riveting, while others are downplayed to an extent which seems very unnecessary. Overall, a lackluster foray into a new world, but with the popular consensus of the following novels in the series being much better, I may find myself returning to the world of the Dark Tower. 6.7/10