cyrille6k's reviews
641 reviews

Elyon by Ted Dekker and Kaci Hill is a captivating conclusion to a thrilling series. The plot is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers engaged and guessing what will happen next. Dekker's masterful storytelling is evident throughout the book, making it a memorable read.

The series reaches its climax as Johnis and Silvie embark on a dangerous mission to eliminate the albinos. However, their plan is complicated by the conflicting agendas of those involved. Johnis, possessed by Shaeda, seeks power for himself, while Sucrow desires to rule over mankind. Darsal, torn between her love for Marak and her loyalty to Elyon, must navigate these treacherous waters.

Johnis, the former albino turned Horde, becomes the primary antagonist. Possessed by Shaeda, he undergoes a transformation, becoming increasingly ruthless and determined to carry out her plan. Darsal, the main protagonist, faces internal conflict as she struggles to reconcile her love for Marak with her duty to Elyon.

The desolate landscape of the desert and the remnants of cities provide a stark backdrop for the story. The post-apocalyptic setting adds a sense of urgency and realism to the characters' struggles.

Loyalty is a central theme explored throughout the book. Characters are tested and challenged, forced to make difficult choices and question their allegiances. The theme of loyalty adds depth and complexity to the narrative.

Elyon is a highly recommended read for fans of fantasy and adventure. It offers a satisfying conclusion to the series while maintaining the same level of excitement and intrigue. The book's blend of action, romance, and thought-provoking themes appeals to a wide range of readers.

After a five-year absence, Johnis, Silvie, and Darsal return to Middle Forest, only to find it overrun by the Horde. Trapped in the town hall attic, they devise an escape plan, but Darsal is captured and imprisoned. While imprisoned, she succumbs to the Horde disease and becomes a mindless follower.

Johnis and Silvie escape and search for Darsal, but she remains missing. Meanwhile, Marak, a Horde general, develops a plan to use Darsal to defeat the Albinos, a rival faction.

Marak, previously a minor character, becomes a complex figure in this book. Despite his allegiance to the Horde, he experiences internal conflict when his family members are captured and executed. His loyalty to the Horde is tested, but he ultimately develops a soft spot for Darsal.

Johnis undergoes a significant transformation as he succumbs to the Horde disease. His once strong leadership qualities deteriorate, and he becomes increasingly erratic and controlled by Shaeda, a mysterious figure.

The story takes place in Middle Forest, a secluded oasis surrounded by a harsh desert. The time period is ambiguous, but it's clear that technology has regressed, leading to a reliance on traditional methods of transportation and warfare. This setting contributes to the overall atmosphere of a post-apocalyptic world.

Loyalty is a central theme explored in the book. Despite the challenges and betrayals they face, Johnis, Silvie, and Darsal remain dedicated to their cause and their loved ones. Even as they become corrupted by the Horde disease, they hold onto their inner beliefs and ultimately devise a plan to defeat it.

This book is suitable for high school students due to its complex themes and characters. While some parts may require careful attention, the overall narrative is engaging and thought-provoking. The book appeals to both male and female readers with its blend of action, adventure, and character development. 

Johnis and Silvie find themselves in a strange new world called "Second Earth," where time operates differently and technology seems to be powered by magic. They stumble upon a bustling city called Las Vegas and attempt to purchase a vehicle, but are forced to steal it to escape the authorities. While on the run, they crash and seek refuge in a hidden location. To avoid detection, they disguise themselves using clothing they find, including a red cape for Johnis.

Johnis is captured and forced to participate in a gladiatorial battle. Silvie, desperate to save him, takes a hostage and is also captured. Karas bails them out of jail, and they learn that a mysterious woman named Miranda possesses all four of the Forest books.

Miranda, initially an enigmatic ally, reveals herself to be Alucard's second-in-command and the main antagonist. She uses her knowledge of Silvie's feelings for Johnis to manipulate them and capture them multiple times. Johnis, driven by his determination to find the books, risks his own safety and even separates from Silvie to complete his mission.

The story takes place in the year 2035, outside of the familiar Forests. "Second Earth" is a technologically advanced world with a unique blend of magic and modern technology. The characters encounter strange creatures, unfamiliar customs, and dangerous challenges.

This action-packed adventure novel is perfect for readers who enjoy fast-paced plots and complex characters. With its blend of science fiction and fantasy elements, it offers a thrilling escape for both boys and girls. Middle and high school students will appreciate the relatable characters and exciting adventures.

The Lost Books series continues to defy expectations, becoming increasingly unpredictable and captivating. What began as an epic adventure has evolved into a mind-bending exploration of power, morality, and the human condition. 

Billos, impulsive and driven by his thirst for power, steals the three Lost Books and vanishes into a mysterious new world.Darsal, equally impetuous, follows him to retrieve the final Lost Book and save him. Karas, unable to resist the adventure,joins them, and the trio finds themselves entangled in a dangerous world with a unique kind of evil. 

Billos faces a critical choice: love or power? He must navigate this moral dilemma using his own judgment and conscience. The plot is well-paced, avoiding the lingering issues of previous books. The characters' internal struggles and emotional depth add a layer of humanity, making them more relatable than the typical "chosen heroes." The shift to a new world introduces a fresh dimension to the series, adding excitement and intrigue. 

While the series' strengths are evident, I was disappointed by the untimely demise of Papa. His character had great potential, especially considering Karas' recent change of allegiance. His death feels like a missed opportunity to develop a new hero and explore the complexities of their relationship. 

The Plot:

The novel commences with Johnis, a celebrated hero, returning home from a triumphant victory over The Horde. A mysterious message reveals that a ring, once belonging to his presumed-dead mother, has been discovered on the battlefield. Driven by hope and determination, Johnis defies orders and leads a contingent of 500 soldiers into a perilous mission to rescue his mother from the clutches of The Horde. However, the ring serves as a deadly lure, drawing Johnis and his troops into a carefully orchestrated ambush. Despite facing overwhelming odds and personal sacrifices, Johnis remains unwavering in his quest to reunite with his mother.

The Characterization:

Initially portrayed as a loyal and fearless hero, Johnis undergoes a profound transformation as the story progresses. The discovery of his mother's ring ignites a fierce determination within him, leading him to make impulsive and risky decisions. His reckless actions ultimately result in the loss of lives and the erosion of his reputation. However, through adversity, Johnis matures and demonstrates unwavering loyalty to his friends and family, even at great personal cost.

Silvie, a fierce and independent warrior, initially views Johnis with admiration and respect. As their journey unfolds, their bond deepens, and Silvie develops romantic feelings for him. She remains fiercely loyal to Johnis, risking her own life to protect him and support his mission.

The Setting:

The novel is set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a disease that has divided civilization into two warring factions. The land is divided into distinct regions, each with its own unique challenges and dangers. The primary setting is the Middle Forest, where Johnis and his companions reside. However, the story also explores other regions, including Thrall, the Horde's central city.

Recommendations:

I highly recommend this captivating novel to high school students. Its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes make it a compelling read. The novel's universal appeal ensures that it will resonate with readers of all types.

Ted Dekker's Chosen is a captivating addition to his extensive literary universe. Known for his polarizing work, Dekker delivers a thrilling tale that keeps readers engaged until the very end. While the complex world-building may require prior knowledge of the series, the story stands alone as a thrilling adventure. 

The character development is masterful, with familiar faces like Thomas Hunter returning and new figures like Teeleh adding depth to the narrative. The fast-paced plot is filled with action, suspense, and thought-provoking themes. 

While the story's place within a larger series might be a drawback for some, Dekker's skillful storytelling and engaging characters make Chosen a worthwhile read for fans of the genre. 

The Zodiac Academy series continues to impress. This installment, while slightly slower paced than the last, is still a captivating read. The plot twists and character development keep the story engaging. 

I'm excited to see the twins' magical abilities fully realized. The romantic drama is intense, with Tory caught in a love triangle. Darcy and Orion's connection is undeniable. While Seth's reaction is uncertain, I'm curious to see how the dynamics shift. 

The series' exploration of complex relationships and intriguing characters remains a highlight. I can't wait to see what unfolds in the next book 

While I have mixed feelings about the series, I can't deny its addictive qualities. The characters are flawed but compelling, and the romantic tension between Orion and Darcy is electrifying. 

The plot revolves around revenge and power dynamics, with the twins seeking retribution for past wrongs. While the characters' actions can be questionable, their development is intriguing. The pacing is uneven, with some slow moments and intense action sequences. 

The world-building and magic system remain captivating, despite the occasional plot inconsistencies. The ending sets the stage for an exciting conclusion in the next installment. 

Overall, Zodiac Academy is a flawed yet entertaining series that will appeal to fans of fantasy romance. 

I enjoyed The Hemlock House more than its predecessor. The characters, particularly Holiday, were more developed and engaging. Holiday's assertiveness was refreshing, especially in contrast to Linden's self-conscious nature. While the reveal was predictable, the overall plot was enjoyable. I hope to see further character development and a more complex mystery in future installments.

Fang Fiction is a unique blend of fantasy, romance, and social commentary. While the initial premise of a woman falling into her favorite book is familiar, the execution is fresh and thought-provoking. 

The novel effectively explores themes of fan culture, escapism, and trauma recovery. The characters, particularly Tess and Callum, have complex dynamics and compelling backstories. The author’s use of humor and wit helps to balance the heavier themes. 

However, the rapid pacing and numerous plot points can be overwhelming at times. The book could benefit from additional character development and a slower exploration of the world-building. Despite these shortcomings, Fang Fiction is an engaging read that will resonate with fans of the genre.