Public Enemies

June 1, 2015
This second book in the Immortal Game trilogy picks up right where Mortal Danger (2014) left off. Edie finds herself again entangled with the monstrous forces she encountered previously as she looks for a way to rescue her heartthrob, Kian, from his pledge that he will give up his life to save hers. The monsters provide most of the book's charm, with nicely original twists on mythological beings making up the pantheon. The Harbinger, Edie's adversary/protector, actually comes across as the book's most engaging character, far more so than either Edie or Kian. Readers also meet the almost attractive character of a killer clown, aptly named Buzzkill, and a wonderful smith, Govannon, who forges a magical weapon for Edie. Aguirre expects readers to recall that in this complex plot, Edie has become involved in the immortal game of the series title, defined in the first book but never here. Except for the inventive translation of mythological creatures into the book's monsters, any of which might become enemies or collaborators, the storyline essentially follows the standard formula for paranormal romance. Readers must navigate lengthy, alternating action and romance episodes, including loosely described sexual encounters, before finally returning to the series' main premise: that Edie is trying to escape a Faustian deal and to repair the damage she has done to the world. Nifty monsters, standard plot. (Paranormal romance. 12-18)

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June 1, 2015

Gr 9 Up-Following Mortal Danger (Feiwel & Friends, 2014), this volume moves as fast as the first, jumping right into action as Edie attempts to beat the Harbinger at his own game in order to save Kian's life. She knows she is in too deep for her own safety, but she is past any sense of disbelief at the horrific revelations she continues to encounter, as well as any concern for herself. The legendary beasts, gods, and urban legends, including a sadistic killer clown, make for a busy battle schedule for the formerly bullied teen that is as creative as it is violent, without a dull moment. As Edie obsesses over saving Kian, her new enemies focus on others she loves, creating heartbreak that takes her original desire for power and revenge to heights that threaten her humanity, just as she accepts a weapon that offers spectacular power to destroy any and all who stand in her way. This work should particularly appeal to fans of Ilsa Bick's "The Dark Passages" series (Egmont USA) and Mary Weber's "The Storm Siren" trilogy (Thomas Nelson). VERDICT This engaging nightmare will make even mature horror readers check under the bed at night.-Kerry Sutherland, Akron-Summit County Public Library, OH

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