What do you think?
Dark Eden #2
Eve of Destruction
In Dark Eve of Destruction , the thrilling sequel to New York Times bestselling author Patrick Carman’s Dark Eden , the seven teens who were “cured” by Rainsford reunite to find relief from their ailments...and realize they may have the power to stop Rainsford’s ghoulish reign once and for all. Ensnared in a dangerous and ever-deepening mystery, Will Besting must lead his friends through a perilous underground trap masterminded by two devious souls at war with one another. It’s a game of cat-and-mouse, and not everyone will be alive when it’s over. Dark Eve of Destruction is a harrowing journey into the depths of fear, love, revenge, and—ultimately—redemption.
277 pages, Hardcover
First published April 24, 2012
About the author
Patrick Carman
96 books1,610 followersI have been a lifelong writer and storyteller. Salem, Oregon is where I spent my formative years and I graduated from Willamette University. After college, I spent a decade living in Portland, Oregon where I worked in advertising, game design, and technology.
I've written young adult and children's books for Scholastic, Little Brown Books For Young Readers and Katherine Tegen Books/ HarperCollins Publishers.
I've been fortunate enough to have had some bestselling series work: The Land of Elyon, Atherton, Elliot’s Park, 39 Clues, and Skeleton Creek. Here's a fun note...the books have been translated into approximately two dozen languages. Currently I'm developing a few new-media projects. Check out DARK EDEN to experience this type of cross-platform project.
When I'm not writing or creating a story, I spend my free time supporting literacy campaigns and community organizations, fly fishing, playing basketball and tennis, doing crosswords, watching movies, dabbling in video games, reading (lots), and (more than anything else) spending time with my wife and two daughters.
I've written young adult and children's books for Scholastic, Little Brown Books For Young Readers and Katherine Tegen Books/ HarperCollins Publishers.
I've been fortunate enough to have had some bestselling series work: The Land of Elyon, Atherton, Elliot’s Park, 39 Clues, and Skeleton Creek. Here's a fun note...the books have been translated into approximately two dozen languages. Currently I'm developing a few new-media projects. Check out DARK EDEN to experience this type of cross-platform project.
When I'm not writing or creating a story, I spend my free time supporting literacy campaigns and community organizations, fly fishing, playing basketball and tennis, doing crosswords, watching movies, dabbling in video games, reading (lots), and (more than anything else) spending time with my wife and two daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
January 31, 2012
Dark Eden made my short list of 5-stars last year. It was creeptastic and thrilling; I loved it. Suffice it to say, I was highly anticipating this sequel. However, I don't know if the author took a different approach, or if these are things I failed to notice in the first book, but among other things, I was mostly bothered by the writing style.
There IS such a thing as too much detail - in particular, too many clarifications to where it comes off as a tad juvenile. Or as though I'm not intelligent enough to interpret what is happening without having it spelled out for me.
- "I hit the camera switch for S4 and the door-open knob for R1 at the same time, which turned Rainsford's feed off and opened the R1 door simultaneously"
-"She looked straight into the camera and gave Mrs. Goring the finger. And by finger, I mean the finger"
Yes, thank you for these clarifications!
This might be fine for some novels - especially for younger readers - but for a thriller such as this and from what I expected based on Dark Eden, I had a hard time taking it seriously.
The characters were incredibly hard for me to like in this sequel, mostly due to their naivety and poor judgment. Right from the start we get reacquainted with Will Besting when he gets a call from Mrs. Goring summoning the gang back to Fort Eden. Without a second thought on this ominous and obviously suspicious request they all agree that it's a good idea to go back to this nightmarish place (huh?). Once there, they happily comply to Goring's request to go down a dark and gloomy chamber that, "aghast", they get trapped in. (Wow, they could have never seen this coming!)
"She wouldn't put us through all these hoops just to fry us in the end."
At least he keeps his faith in a woman who trapped them in an underground Missile Silo filled with death traps so she could use them to collect what she needs.
It may come off as a surprise, but I did not hate the book. The plot itself is still entertaining. I mean, death traps and evil masterminds! We also get a lot of answers to the questions we were left with in the first book. The vibe of the book itself is quite different since some paranormal aspects that were introduced at the end of Dark Eden are now in the forefront. I did find it interesting, but I had felt much more frightened in the first book where everything was occurring in our reality without supernatural elements; Dark Eden had me in a constant bewilderment for what was happening. We didn't already know; the unknown was spine-chilling.
Do I still recommend it to fans of Dark Eden? I think some could still be satisfied with this one as a lot of the plot elements are intriguing and we have some exciting developments. However, I would suggest you proceed with caution.
Note: The quotes in this review are taken from the uncorrected proof.
--
For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads
There IS such a thing as too much detail - in particular, too many clarifications to where it comes off as a tad juvenile. Or as though I'm not intelligent enough to interpret what is happening without having it spelled out for me.
- "I hit the camera switch for S4 and the door-open knob for R1 at the same time, which turned Rainsford's feed off and opened the R1 door simultaneously"
-"She looked straight into the camera and gave Mrs. Goring the finger. And by finger, I mean the finger"
Yes, thank you for these clarifications!
This might be fine for some novels - especially for younger readers - but for a thriller such as this and from what I expected based on Dark Eden, I had a hard time taking it seriously.
The characters were incredibly hard for me to like in this sequel, mostly due to their naivety and poor judgment. Right from the start we get reacquainted with Will Besting when he gets a call from Mrs. Goring summoning the gang back to Fort Eden. Without a second thought on this ominous and obviously suspicious request they all agree that it's a good idea to go back to this nightmarish place (huh?). Once there, they happily comply to Goring's request to go down a dark and gloomy chamber that, "aghast", they get trapped in. (Wow, they could have never seen this coming!)
"She wouldn't put us through all these hoops just to fry us in the end."
At least he keeps his faith in a woman who trapped them in an underground Missile Silo filled with death traps so she could use them to collect what she needs.
It may come off as a surprise, but I did not hate the book. The plot itself is still entertaining. I mean, death traps and evil masterminds! We also get a lot of answers to the questions we were left with in the first book. The vibe of the book itself is quite different since some paranormal aspects that were introduced at the end of Dark Eden are now in the forefront. I did find it interesting, but I had felt much more frightened in the first book where everything was occurring in our reality without supernatural elements; Dark Eden had me in a constant bewilderment for what was happening. We didn't already know; the unknown was spine-chilling.
Do I still recommend it to fans of Dark Eden? I think some could still be satisfied with this one as a lot of the plot elements are intriguing and we have some exciting developments. However, I would suggest you proceed with caution.
Note: The quotes in this review are taken from the uncorrected proof.
--
For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads
October 13, 2017
I had checked this book out from the library not realizing it was the second in the series. Fortunately; as I began to read I found the summary of events thus far to leave me with little to no questions. I still definitely want to read the first in the series based on my enjoyment of the sequel.
The decision to remove the main character; Will, from the action for the majority of the story gave a much more removed point of view to the story but also added some extra suspense about what was happening in the other rooms. It almost reminded me of playing Five Nights at Freddie's.
The decision to remove the main character; Will, from the action for the majority of the story gave a much more removed point of view to the story but also added some extra suspense about what was happening in the other rooms. It almost reminded me of playing Five Nights at Freddie's.
December 1, 2011
Pshhh, it's a Patrick Carman book, OBVIOUSLY it's gonna be epic!!!!
May 17, 2012
With Dark Eden, Patrick Carman introduced us to The Seven: Will, Marissa, Kate, Alex, Connor, Ben and Avery. Seven teenagers that each had a life crippling fear. They were brought by Dr. Stevens to Fort Eden where a cure for each of them awaited at the hands of Rainsford. Seven cures that used their own fears against them so that they could be freed of their fears.
But the cure took something from each of them and gave them something in return-for each of the cures gave each of the Seven an ailment that plagued them, almost as much as their fears had. They thought they would have to live the rest of their lives with their new, debilitating problems: narcolepsy, loss of hearing, loss of balance, headaches. However, what if there was another cure, this time a cure to their ailment’s instead of their fears?
When Will Besting receives a letter from Dr. Stevens, he is wary at first. The letter says that Ms. Goring, the caretaker of Fort Eden, is dying and her last wish is to see the Seven together once more. Despite what Fort Eden did to him, he wants to go back, needs to go back. For Fort Eden may hold more secrets ready to be spoken.
Gathering together, six of the teenagers return to Fort Eden where Ms. Goring informs them that there is a cure to what now plagues their bodies. There is a catch, however: they must venture underneath Fort Eden, into an abandoned missle silo, where they will find seven vials filled with what Rainsford took from them.
Desperate for an end to their disorders, they venture underground where a cure might await. Not everything is as it seems, however. When Ms. Goring locks them inside, they must venture further underground and face new dangers. Now, it is not the cure that could kill them, it is their surroundings and Ms. Goring herself. For she is bent on revenge and wants Rainsford dead.
And she doesn’t care how many people she will have to sacrafice in order to reach her goal. Now, in a race against time, Will Besting must protect the others, or all of them may perish underground…
Patrick Carman always tells an incredible story, no matter which of his books you happen to be reading, but Dark Eden has been my favourite out of his body of work. I wondered whether Dark Eden: Eve of Destruction would meet my high expectations. I had read the eBook, the hardcover and experience the multi-media app that literally changed the game for what eBooks can do. Would Eve of Destruction be as good?
The answer is: It’s better.
With very little build up, Carman pulls readers into a story that reads like a literary roller coaster where the stakes are even higher than they were in the first book. Now, they are not only fighting to find a cure for what ails them, the Seven are fighting to stay alive.
Dark Eden: Eve of Destruction is a thrill ride of a novel and, surprisingly, is far darker than its predessor. Most of the novel was reminiscent of horror movies and classic horror literature. The novel also played off of my own fears, rather than the Sevens, which made it a far more intimate reading experience. I am claustrophobic and terrified of dark, enclosed spaces. Parts of this book had me gripping my iPad with white knuclked fright, hoping that those trapped below ground would find their way out.
In the end, the entirety of Dark Eden: Eve of Destruction was an incredible mind trip-something that could indeed be seen inside one of Rainsford’s helmets that would deliver a cure by playing off of your fears, as it did mine. Dark Eden: Eve of Destruction went beyond my expectations in every way and genuinely frightened me through out. The writing was solid and peppered with literary references, the characters were engaging and the mystery under Fort Eden enthralling. In short, there are no mis-steps in this novel, only an incredible story that will pull you in and haunt you well after the last page is turned.
I started Dark Eden: Eve of Destruction early in the morning and finished it that same afternoon. You will not be able to put down Dark Eden: Eve of Destruction until you reach the cataclysmic and shocking ending.
Care for another cure?
But the cure took something from each of them and gave them something in return-for each of the cures gave each of the Seven an ailment that plagued them, almost as much as their fears had. They thought they would have to live the rest of their lives with their new, debilitating problems: narcolepsy, loss of hearing, loss of balance, headaches. However, what if there was another cure, this time a cure to their ailment’s instead of their fears?
When Will Besting receives a letter from Dr. Stevens, he is wary at first. The letter says that Ms. Goring, the caretaker of Fort Eden, is dying and her last wish is to see the Seven together once more. Despite what Fort Eden did to him, he wants to go back, needs to go back. For Fort Eden may hold more secrets ready to be spoken.
Gathering together, six of the teenagers return to Fort Eden where Ms. Goring informs them that there is a cure to what now plagues their bodies. There is a catch, however: they must venture underneath Fort Eden, into an abandoned missle silo, where they will find seven vials filled with what Rainsford took from them.
Desperate for an end to their disorders, they venture underground where a cure might await. Not everything is as it seems, however. When Ms. Goring locks them inside, they must venture further underground and face new dangers. Now, it is not the cure that could kill them, it is their surroundings and Ms. Goring herself. For she is bent on revenge and wants Rainsford dead.
And she doesn’t care how many people she will have to sacrafice in order to reach her goal. Now, in a race against time, Will Besting must protect the others, or all of them may perish underground…
Patrick Carman always tells an incredible story, no matter which of his books you happen to be reading, but Dark Eden has been my favourite out of his body of work. I wondered whether Dark Eden: Eve of Destruction would meet my high expectations. I had read the eBook, the hardcover and experience the multi-media app that literally changed the game for what eBooks can do. Would Eve of Destruction be as good?
The answer is: It’s better.
With very little build up, Carman pulls readers into a story that reads like a literary roller coaster where the stakes are even higher than they were in the first book. Now, they are not only fighting to find a cure for what ails them, the Seven are fighting to stay alive.
Dark Eden: Eve of Destruction is a thrill ride of a novel and, surprisingly, is far darker than its predessor. Most of the novel was reminiscent of horror movies and classic horror literature. The novel also played off of my own fears, rather than the Sevens, which made it a far more intimate reading experience. I am claustrophobic and terrified of dark, enclosed spaces. Parts of this book had me gripping my iPad with white knuclked fright, hoping that those trapped below ground would find their way out.
In the end, the entirety of Dark Eden: Eve of Destruction was an incredible mind trip-something that could indeed be seen inside one of Rainsford’s helmets that would deliver a cure by playing off of your fears, as it did mine. Dark Eden: Eve of Destruction went beyond my expectations in every way and genuinely frightened me through out. The writing was solid and peppered with literary references, the characters were engaging and the mystery under Fort Eden enthralling. In short, there are no mis-steps in this novel, only an incredible story that will pull you in and haunt you well after the last page is turned.
I started Dark Eden: Eve of Destruction early in the morning and finished it that same afternoon. You will not be able to put down Dark Eden: Eve of Destruction until you reach the cataclysmic and shocking ending.
Care for another cure?
March 5, 2017
Book 2 of the Dark Eden series, Eve Of Destruction. Embark on the group of friends as they leave the lab "cured" and older after years of being away from the real world. They might finally be able to end the reign of Rainsford over them. A true story for romanticists and adventurers.
July 11, 2012
My jury is still out on this book, so it’s a tough one to write a review for. I finished the book – which I seldom will do if I don’t like it. But, it was just so...unbelievable! I know that characters often make decisions that leave you screaming “Why? WHY!?” loudly at the book.
But before I get there, let’s talk about Carman’s use of multimedia this time around. It was actually pretty neat. The first few chapters of the book have footnotes scattered throughout that instruct you to visit www.willbesting.com and enter various passwords. Each password opens up a new video clip, of stuff Will saved on his recorder back in Dark Eden #1. They were well done, and I think added a great element to the book (yay transliteracy!), although given their content I think I would have loved them twice as much if they had been available in book one. I was also disappointed when the footnotes ended after a few chapters, and there were no more clips. But still, a great integration!
On to the book itself – Will has gathered up the gang that was cured back in Dark Eden and returned at the bequest of Mrs. Goring. Why? I don’t know. Yes, they were each left with supposedly debilitating ailments from their cures. But they are things that millions of people in the world already live with each and every day – and that there are medicines and devices designed to assist with. So instead, you head back to a place where you traded a paralyzing fear for a debilitating ailment...thinking what? And where were the parents here? Why would you allow your child to return? Why wouldn’t you have done something after the first bout?
Unfortunately, the book was also a little predictable. I figured Amy out quickly, and that of course lead to outing Avery. Yet, I still finished the book. And rather quickly too – I tend to drag through novels I don’t enjoy but am determined to finish...often I’ll even start another book. So what was it about this that made me stick with it, and not even all that grumpily?
I don’t know. All I know is that I wouldn’t call this Mr. Carman’s best – but I must have still enjoyed it, and if you’re considering reading it, don’t let my own ambiguous feelings towards it deter you.
But before I get there, let’s talk about Carman’s use of multimedia this time around. It was actually pretty neat. The first few chapters of the book have footnotes scattered throughout that instruct you to visit www.willbesting.com and enter various passwords. Each password opens up a new video clip, of stuff Will saved on his recorder back in Dark Eden #1. They were well done, and I think added a great element to the book (yay transliteracy!), although given their content I think I would have loved them twice as much if they had been available in book one. I was also disappointed when the footnotes ended after a few chapters, and there were no more clips. But still, a great integration!
On to the book itself – Will has gathered up the gang that was cured back in Dark Eden and returned at the bequest of Mrs. Goring. Why? I don’t know. Yes, they were each left with supposedly debilitating ailments from their cures. But they are things that millions of people in the world already live with each and every day – and that there are medicines and devices designed to assist with. So instead, you head back to a place where you traded a paralyzing fear for a debilitating ailment...thinking what? And where were the parents here? Why would you allow your child to return? Why wouldn’t you have done something after the first bout?
Unfortunately, the book was also a little predictable. I figured Amy out quickly, and that of course lead to outing Avery. Yet, I still finished the book. And rather quickly too – I tend to drag through novels I don’t enjoy but am determined to finish...often I’ll even start another book. So what was it about this that made me stick with it, and not even all that grumpily?
I don’t know. All I know is that I wouldn’t call this Mr. Carman’s best – but I must have still enjoyed it, and if you’re considering reading it, don’t let my own ambiguous feelings towards it deter you.
March 6, 2012
When I first saw that there was going to be a sequel to Dark Eden, I wasn't sure what to think. I really didn't know how there could be a sequel, considering how the first book was put together and how it ended. The ending, though not too perfect for the good guys, pretty much tied up all the loose ends and left little for any subsequent novels (unless, perhaps, it involved different characters). I was still optimistic, however, since I enjoyed Dark Eden so much. Though some would say that the plot is thin, I really enjoyed the semi-horror-like feel of the book and the fast-paced thrills (not to mention the Poe references), so I thought Dark Eden 2 was worth a try.
In Dark Eden 2, all of the teens who had their phobias cured, even Will, have been called back to Fort Eden -and no one knows why. It's not long until they find themselves trapped in the Fort once again, and find themselves as nothing but the playthings of others in a much larger -and deadlier -game. It's up to Will to get everyone safely out of the Fort, though the need for revenge is hard to resist.
Dark Eden 2 partially fell into the trap that I was concerned it would: essentially repeating the same story as the first book. Only this time, the point of view didn't switch between each character and the characters weren't nearly as compelling since their they've already worked through their issues. I really felt like, this time, the story was somewhat of a rehash without much new material -at least not enough to warrant a sequel in my opinion.
Despite this, I was still flipping through pages to see what would happen next. Carman still brings his signature thrills to each page, and kept me enthralled until the end. So, not a complete loss, but I feel like Dark Eden 2 really missed some opportunities and just doesn't stand up to the first book.
In Dark Eden 2, all of the teens who had their phobias cured, even Will, have been called back to Fort Eden -and no one knows why. It's not long until they find themselves trapped in the Fort once again, and find themselves as nothing but the playthings of others in a much larger -and deadlier -game. It's up to Will to get everyone safely out of the Fort, though the need for revenge is hard to resist.
Dark Eden 2 partially fell into the trap that I was concerned it would: essentially repeating the same story as the first book. Only this time, the point of view didn't switch between each character and the characters weren't nearly as compelling since their they've already worked through their issues. I really felt like, this time, the story was somewhat of a rehash without much new material -at least not enough to warrant a sequel in my opinion.
Despite this, I was still flipping through pages to see what would happen next. Carman still brings his signature thrills to each page, and kept me enthralled until the end. So, not a complete loss, but I feel like Dark Eden 2 really missed some opportunities and just doesn't stand up to the first book.
January 1, 2012
I know, I know -- I've been pretty harsh on the first book. Yet there's this compelling need to find out what happens after the first book ended. I never expected something greater, and I was right.
The Story:
Will Besting and the other teens whose phobias were "cured" at Fort Eden have been summoned back by Mrs. Goring. Her dying wish is to see them together one last time. Or is it?
Ensnared in a dangerous, ever-deepening mystery, Will must lead his friends through a perilous underground trap masterminded by two devious souls at war with each other. It's a game of cat and mouse, and not everyone will be alive when it's over. Can Will outwit both Rainsford and Goring, ending their reign of fear forever?
My Notes:
1. So there's this blurb on the book: "Patrick Carman's "Dark Eden: Eve of Destruction" offers a harrowing journey into the depths of fear, love, revenge, and ultimately--redemption." which sounds pretty cool, but THIS ISN'T THE CASE. It fell quite flat for me -- I didn't feel the "fear, love, revenge and redemption" as much as the blurb makes it out to be. Bummer.
2. One-dimensional characters. 'Nuff said. Even the romance didn't help. Do you even call that a romance??
3. The whole book took place in a basement. It was quite creative in terms of the concept, to be honest. I enjoyed reading how Will planned his mission.
4. A lot of things didn't make sense, as usual.
5. I liked the suspense. The pages kept turning really fast -- I just wanted to find out what happened next.
6. THAT RIDICULOUS TWIST. OH MY GOD.
Verdict:
I actually thought the first book was better. Anyway, by reading this I satisfied my curiosity. That's it.
The Story:
Will Besting and the other teens whose phobias were "cured" at Fort Eden have been summoned back by Mrs. Goring. Her dying wish is to see them together one last time. Or is it?
Ensnared in a dangerous, ever-deepening mystery, Will must lead his friends through a perilous underground trap masterminded by two devious souls at war with each other. It's a game of cat and mouse, and not everyone will be alive when it's over. Can Will outwit both Rainsford and Goring, ending their reign of fear forever?
My Notes:
1. So there's this blurb on the book: "Patrick Carman's "Dark Eden: Eve of Destruction" offers a harrowing journey into the depths of fear, love, revenge, and ultimately--redemption." which sounds pretty cool, but THIS ISN'T THE CASE. It fell quite flat for me -- I didn't feel the "fear, love, revenge and redemption" as much as the blurb makes it out to be. Bummer.
2. One-dimensional characters. 'Nuff said. Even the romance didn't help. Do you even call that a romance??
3. The whole book took place in a basement. It was quite creative in terms of the concept, to be honest. I enjoyed reading how Will planned his mission.
4. A lot of things didn't make sense, as usual.
5. I liked the suspense. The pages kept turning really fast -- I just wanted to find out what happened next.
6. THAT RIDICULOUS TWIST. OH MY GOD.
Verdict:
I actually thought the first book was better. Anyway, by reading this I satisfied my curiosity. That's it.
November 7, 2019
2019
All I can say is, "Thank God." Because I have now finished reading both books. And again "Thank God" because the author didn't write more than that in this series.
I thought the last one was bad, but this one was even worse.
If you are wanting to start this series, I very strongly suggest that you don't.
If you have already read through this series and are now reading through what other people thought of these books... I'm sorry my fellow sufferer.
Reading through these books are about two hours of my life that I'll never get back.
All I can say is, "Thank God." Because I have now finished reading both books. And again "Thank God" because the author didn't write more than that in this series.
I thought the last one was bad, but this one was even worse.
If you are wanting to start this series, I very strongly suggest that you don't.
If you have already read through this series and are now reading through what other people thought of these books... I'm sorry my fellow sufferer.
Reading through these books are about two hours of my life that I'll never get back.
November 4, 2016
Teens return to a place where they were cured of fears. I get involved in a plot revenge, a journey into the depths of fear, love and finally redemption. There is a multi media app that goes with this book it was creeped Hostick and thrilling
April 7, 2018
I really liked the book. I didn't even know that it was the 2nd book. The author wrote it in away that explained things well enough for it too be a stand alone book. But I only gave it four stars because the ending was a bit of a let down
May 29, 2018
very good
August 31, 2019
Wow that is messed up...but great story
June 7, 2024
No where near as good as the first one…
July 29, 2012
As seen at The A P Book Club
Dark Eden 2 was very much like Dark Eden - same characters, similar set up, and same villain. However, I enjoyed this one better than the first one. I thought the whole battling death to defeat am immortal being was interesting, and I kind of liked how Will was forced to watch everything from afar - like he had chosen to do in the first book.
The only thing I was kind of concerned about was that the kids trusted Mrs. Goring in any capacity. She had done nothing in Dark Eden to earn their trust, and Will should have known that she would force him to tell everyone what he knew. And that Marissa would be angry with him. Also, shouldn't he have known who Mrs. Goring had trapped in the underground silo? I mean, how did he really plan on catching him anyway?
Ok, so Will wasn't exactly my favorite character. But he is a 15 year old boy, and I think all of his flaws and annoying tendencies made his character seem more real.
I thought Carman did a great job with the suspense throughout the novel. As soon as you get comfortable with what's happening, he throws another wrench into the mix and everything gets all screwed up again. And eventually, the kids have to get out of it on their own.
I think my favorite part was the play on words with the title, Eve of Destruction. I really liked how he fit it into the book, and I thought it was clever how he kind of just dropped it without making it too obvious.
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who read Dark Eden, and to anyone who like middle-grade psychological thrillers. I thought both were an easy read, and if you're looking for something you can finish in a day and still be intrigued, I would suggest this duology. I give this book a pretty solid 3/5.
Dark Eden 2 was very much like Dark Eden - same characters, similar set up, and same villain. However, I enjoyed this one better than the first one. I thought the whole battling death to defeat am immortal being was interesting, and I kind of liked how Will was forced to watch everything from afar - like he had chosen to do in the first book.
The only thing I was kind of concerned about was that the kids trusted Mrs. Goring in any capacity. She had done nothing in Dark Eden to earn their trust, and Will should have known that she would force him to tell everyone what he knew. And that Marissa would be angry with him. Also, shouldn't he have known who Mrs. Goring had trapped in the underground silo? I mean, how did he really plan on catching him anyway?
Ok, so Will wasn't exactly my favorite character. But he is a 15 year old boy, and I think all of his flaws and annoying tendencies made his character seem more real.
I thought Carman did a great job with the suspense throughout the novel. As soon as you get comfortable with what's happening, he throws another wrench into the mix and everything gets all screwed up again. And eventually, the kids have to get out of it on their own.
I think my favorite part was the play on words with the title, Eve of Destruction. I really liked how he fit it into the book, and I thought it was clever how he kind of just dropped it without making it too obvious.
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who read Dark Eden, and to anyone who like middle-grade psychological thrillers. I thought both were an easy read, and if you're looking for something you can finish in a day and still be intrigued, I would suggest this duology. I give this book a pretty solid 3/5.
May 29, 2012
Find this review and more at The AP Book Club
Do you remember school book fairs? The ones at my school usually were in the library and there were stacks, bins, and shelves full of paperback books on sale. These books had that feeling to them. They weren't epic stories, but they were entertaining. There wasn't anything edgy about the series. The fears were interesting, but the most controversial bit was one line in the first few chapters that wasn't expanded upon questioning Alex's sexuality. I was just waiting for that to be brought back up, but it wasn't other than Alex not pursuing a love interest.
Both books used a similar formula of Will being outside the main action as an observer until he had to rush in and try and save the day.
I could not get into the first book. Will wasn't likable or relatable. Throughout both books he went into great lengths of his theories. Can't I as the reader come to conclusions on my own? I did like the Keith character, though. All of the twists at the end made the beginning worth reading.
The sequel reminded me of a horror movie sequel. Let's bring back the same cast. Different situation, but same formula. Even the Amy character was in the same style as the first book.
An aspect of the sequel that I thought was interesting, although I didn't take advantage of it, was the website. There were little references at the bottom of some pages with passwords to use to view certain things. I bet middle grade readers would love this.
Overall, these were entertaining books. I recommend them to someone looking for a light read or for middle grade readers looking for something a little scary. I give this duology a 3/5.
Do you remember school book fairs? The ones at my school usually were in the library and there were stacks, bins, and shelves full of paperback books on sale. These books had that feeling to them. They weren't epic stories, but they were entertaining. There wasn't anything edgy about the series. The fears were interesting, but the most controversial bit was one line in the first few chapters that wasn't expanded upon questioning Alex's sexuality. I was just waiting for that to be brought back up, but it wasn't other than Alex not pursuing a love interest.
Both books used a similar formula of Will being outside the main action as an observer until he had to rush in and try and save the day.
I could not get into the first book. Will wasn't likable or relatable. Throughout both books he went into great lengths of his theories. Can't I as the reader come to conclusions on my own? I did like the Keith character, though. All of the twists at the end made the beginning worth reading.
The sequel reminded me of a horror movie sequel. Let's bring back the same cast. Different situation, but same formula. Even the Amy character was in the same style as the first book.
An aspect of the sequel that I thought was interesting, although I didn't take advantage of it, was the website. There were little references at the bottom of some pages with passwords to use to view certain things. I bet middle grade readers would love this.
Overall, these were entertaining books. I recommend them to someone looking for a light read or for middle grade readers looking for something a little scary. I give this duology a 3/5.
November 28, 2011
The Dark Eden series is a very unique and frightening story-line that will keep entertained until the end.
Eve of Destruction picks up a year after Will and 6 others were "cured" of their debilitating fears, a year that Will has been lying to everyone about what really happened to them at Fort Eden; a year, in which Will has been waiting to seek revenge on Rainsford, and put a stop to his reign of terror. When Will gets a note claiming that Mrs. Going wants to see them one last time before she dies, he encourages the group to go back to Fort Eden.
Mrs. Going wants revenge as well, she has been planning hers for years, and she just needs the help of the last seven kids cured. Once the truth comes out about what really happened to them at Fort Eden, the kids agree to help her kill Rainsford. She needs them to make it through an underground maze in a missile silo to get her the vials of their fears. Mrs. Going tricks the kids into entering the missile silo, and then locks them in; it has been set up by an evil mastermind with the purpose of killing anyone who dared to enter.
Eve of Destruction has the same voyeuristic feel to it that Dark Eden has - Will is stuck in a room, trying to help the group make it through the maze and save the girl he loves. But, what I loved about Dark Eden was missing from Eve of Destruction - it didn't have that creepy unexpected feel, and at times it was very predictable.
Eve of Destruction picks up a year after Will and 6 others were "cured" of their debilitating fears, a year that Will has been lying to everyone about what really happened to them at Fort Eden; a year, in which Will has been waiting to seek revenge on Rainsford, and put a stop to his reign of terror. When Will gets a note claiming that Mrs. Going wants to see them one last time before she dies, he encourages the group to go back to Fort Eden.
Mrs. Going wants revenge as well, she has been planning hers for years, and she just needs the help of the last seven kids cured. Once the truth comes out about what really happened to them at Fort Eden, the kids agree to help her kill Rainsford. She needs them to make it through an underground maze in a missile silo to get her the vials of their fears. Mrs. Going tricks the kids into entering the missile silo, and then locks them in; it has been set up by an evil mastermind with the purpose of killing anyone who dared to enter.
Eve of Destruction has the same voyeuristic feel to it that Dark Eden has - Will is stuck in a room, trying to help the group make it through the maze and save the girl he loves. But, what I loved about Dark Eden was missing from Eve of Destruction - it didn't have that creepy unexpected feel, and at times it was very predictable.
May 1, 2012
Fresh new ideas in books are always welcome. Especially, when nowadays, once a topic gets “hot” it seems like many, try to cash in with their own unique version. In the series of Dark Eden, I was greatly surprised to find such a unique way of storytelling. The book itself, Dark Eden 2, is a creepy thriller, which is immaculately written. The characters are very realistic, in a way that they grow and react like an average person. The flow of the book moves along quickly, while at the same time teasing the reader with a great anticipation for the next major event in the plot.
When a group of kids are cured of the their worse fears, all seems well. Sadly, that is not the case. For the cure comes with a heavy cost. The group begins to have serious ailments that usually befall the elderly. With the help of a “mad lady” the kids realize that the price they paid for the cure, is something they could never get back, their youth.
An exciting book about immortality, the author uses another tactic to immerse the reader into his story. With an interactive website that shows videos of scenes from the book, Patrick Carman has done a great job of modernizing his book. With the digital world growing in enormous leaps, Carman does an excellent job of combining the two aspects of literacy, to give the reader a fresh and unique way to get involved into the story.
http://enterdarkeden.com/
review link: http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2012...
When a group of kids are cured of the their worse fears, all seems well. Sadly, that is not the case. For the cure comes with a heavy cost. The group begins to have serious ailments that usually befall the elderly. With the help of a “mad lady” the kids realize that the price they paid for the cure, is something they could never get back, their youth.
An exciting book about immortality, the author uses another tactic to immerse the reader into his story. With an interactive website that shows videos of scenes from the book, Patrick Carman has done a great job of modernizing his book. With the digital world growing in enormous leaps, Carman does an excellent job of combining the two aspects of literacy, to give the reader a fresh and unique way to get involved into the story.
http://enterdarkeden.com/
review link: http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2012...
March 9, 2012
Ugh...the first one was fantastic! What happened?! Just an ungodly amount of over-the-top clarification...we aren't imbeciles! For example, can you let me meet the characters throughout? They don't need to be listed out three times in the first chapter! And if he calls Ben "Ben Dugan" one more time, I'll scream--we know who Ben is! There is a lovely concept called "show, don't tell"...Carman could use a few lessons in it.
Also, this is a sequel. Why do I need a rehashing of the entire first book? I love the web interaction aspect, although the vids are a bit cheesy. However, Connor's is footnoted on 20 and 52! Pay attention, editors! And why do I need several copies of the silo map? Was the one in the front of the book not enough?
Another question: if Rainsford is also *spoiler removed*, how does he change back and forth so quickly, but yet they make a big deal out of the fact that he's done it only a few times? I know this is confusing wording to avoid spoilers, but the book is worded like the process by which he transforms only happens every 7 years, but yet it happens a dozen + times in the first book. What gives?
I finished it hoping for a shred of the thriller action from book one, but I was overall very disappointed. I think he would have been better off leaving Dark Eden as a stand alone novel.
Also, this is a sequel. Why do I need a rehashing of the entire first book? I love the web interaction aspect, although the vids are a bit cheesy. However, Connor's is footnoted on 20 and 52! Pay attention, editors! And why do I need several copies of the silo map? Was the one in the front of the book not enough?
Another question: if Rainsford is also *spoiler removed*, how does he change back and forth so quickly, but yet they make a big deal out of the fact that he's done it only a few times? I know this is confusing wording to avoid spoilers, but the book is worded like the process by which he transforms only happens every 7 years, but yet it happens a dozen + times in the first book. What gives?
I finished it hoping for a shred of the thriller action from book one, but I was overall very disappointed. I think he would have been better off leaving Dark Eden as a stand alone novel.
March 26, 2012
In 'Eve of Destruction' seven teens return to Fort Eden at the request of Mrs. Goring. Previously, Mrs. Goring and Dr. Rainsford had cured the teens of their deepest fears, however while curing their fears Dr. Rainsford also inflicted each teen with a physical ailment. Mrs. Goring convinced the teens to return to attempt to regain their health and seek their revenge on the Doctor.
The book is a YA and as written, didn't appeal to me. It was a short and easy read, and the premise of the story was interesting; evil Doctor ticks teens to maintain his youth. The problem was the book didn't deliver. At no point did I feel a connection to Will Besting or any of the other teens so when they were locked in a nuclear bunker, it was difficult to really care. The plot was far-fetched at best, and at times bordered on the ridiculous. One thing to note is that the author spent a lot of time creating a virtual companion to the book. During the first few chapters Carman included footnotes so that the reader could get more information online. It is an interesting concept and one younger readers might enjoy.
The book is a YA and as written, didn't appeal to me. It was a short and easy read, and the premise of the story was interesting; evil Doctor ticks teens to maintain his youth. The problem was the book didn't deliver. At no point did I feel a connection to Will Besting or any of the other teens so when they were locked in a nuclear bunker, it was difficult to really care. The plot was far-fetched at best, and at times bordered on the ridiculous. One thing to note is that the author spent a lot of time creating a virtual companion to the book. During the first few chapters Carman included footnotes so that the reader could get more information online. It is an interesting concept and one younger readers might enjoy.
May 3, 2012
For some reason I wasn’t very thrilled reading this book. Sure, I read it in one day, but I was mostly just skipping through it, confused what was going on. I was kind of bored. The setting was pretty interesting, and all the radio-active stuff seemed pretty scary, but the characters still felt pretty flat to me. I actually think that Dark Eden should have been a stand-alone. 13 Days Till Midnight was a stand-alone, and that book was awesome! So why the sequel? Having characters with all those aging related weaknesses, like Marisa’s sleeping, made me feel like they were weak.
The book is fast paced despite the long chapter set-up, but I couldn’t get into it. If there is another book, I hope it’s better than this mess. The ending was pretty satisfying though since they were truly cured, so there probably won’t be another book. Hope you all like this book better than I did.
Cover Art Review: I liked the other cover they originally had better. This one is boring. The people on it aren’t very interesting. And it’s not shiny!
~Haley G
My blog:
http://breathlessbookreviews.blogspot...
The book is fast paced despite the long chapter set-up, but I couldn’t get into it. If there is another book, I hope it’s better than this mess. The ending was pretty satisfying though since they were truly cured, so there probably won’t be another book. Hope you all like this book better than I did.
Cover Art Review: I liked the other cover they originally had better. This one is boring. The people on it aren’t very interesting. And it’s not shiny!
~Haley G
My blog:
http://breathlessbookreviews.blogspot...
March 26, 2012
I've finished Mr. Carman's latest book and it's really good. I received an uncorrected proof from Patrick and was delighted. Even though it's classified a YA I found it very interesting. A wonderful plot and great characters.
Will Besting and his six friends have been cured of their phobias (or have they), thanks to Fort Eden and Dr. Rainsford. But now a year later Ms. Goring, white headed, boot wearing, gestapo wantabe is dying and she wants the seven to visit her one last time - thus our adventure begins.
Is Ms. Goring really dying? Where is Dr. Rainsford? Why are the seven really there? You'll find out the answers to these and many more questions. Mr. Carman leads you through twists and turns as the tension mounts and just when you think you've figured it out - surprise!
Enjoy a page turning trip back to Fort Eden and enjoy the ride, I did : )
Will Besting and his six friends have been cured of their phobias (or have they), thanks to Fort Eden and Dr. Rainsford. But now a year later Ms. Goring, white headed, boot wearing, gestapo wantabe is dying and she wants the seven to visit her one last time - thus our adventure begins.
Is Ms. Goring really dying? Where is Dr. Rainsford? Why are the seven really there? You'll find out the answers to these and many more questions. Mr. Carman leads you through twists and turns as the tension mounts and just when you think you've figured it out - surprise!
Enjoy a page turning trip back to Fort Eden and enjoy the ride, I did : )
April 28, 2012
This book contains countless unexpected twists and turns all the way down to the last page.
This is why I love Patrick Carman's books!
There is plenty of danger involved when the setting is an underground missle silo with trace amounts of radiation, electrified water, and unstable flooring.
Six of the seven who had been cured revisit Fort Eden to fulfill Mrs. Goring's death wish, to see them all together again and kill Rainsford. Will either of these things be accomplished? Is Mrs. Goring really dying? What has become of Avery Varone?
You'll have to read this mysterious book, where many characters are injured and one ends up dead, to find out.
This is why I love Patrick Carman's books!
There is plenty of danger involved when the setting is an underground missle silo with trace amounts of radiation, electrified water, and unstable flooring.
Six of the seven who had been cured revisit Fort Eden to fulfill Mrs. Goring's death wish, to see them all together again and kill Rainsford. Will either of these things be accomplished? Is Mrs. Goring really dying? What has become of Avery Varone?
You'll have to read this mysterious book, where many characters are injured and one ends up dead, to find out.
June 2, 2014
...Because Mrs. Goring said so!
That one sentence pretty much sums up the ENTIRE plot of this book. It is basically a rehash of book one plot, and even in that, only one new 'character' was introduced* Absolutely nothing drives this plot forward, because you know who is who, and what they're doing. But because you're not supposed to know (gimmie a break author) it all degenerates back to that first sentence: Because Mrs. Going said so. And that isn't reason enough to enjoy getting through this book.
SPOILER:
~ one new character ~
quote from the next to last page:
"I have to admit, that whole Amy/Goring thing had me fooled. I wouldn't have bet they were the same person."
Oh! Please! As soon as Amy popped on the screen, it was Davis deja vu. Like I said... a recycled plot. If Will was fooled, he was the only one!
That one sentence pretty much sums up the ENTIRE plot of this book. It is basically a rehash of book one plot, and even in that, only one new 'character' was introduced* Absolutely nothing drives this plot forward, because you know who is who, and what they're doing. But because you're not supposed to know (gimmie a break author) it all degenerates back to that first sentence: Because Mrs. Going said so. And that isn't reason enough to enjoy getting through this book.
SPOILER:
~ one new character ~
quote from the next to last page:
"I have to admit, that whole Amy/Goring thing had me fooled. I wouldn't have bet they were the same person."
Oh! Please! As soon as Amy popped on the screen, it was Davis deja vu. Like I said... a recycled plot. If Will was fooled, he was the only one!
March 7, 2012
I have pretty much the same feelings about Dark Eden 2: Eve of Destruction as I did about its predecessor. Which is to say, it was a good, quick read, but it wasn’t fantastic. I still didn’t really care for any of the characters much one way or the other. The creep factor was actually down a little more in this one since all the mystery was gone and the tiny little mystery that existed I figured out almost from the beginning. Basically, if you enjoyed Dark Eden then you’ll probably enjoy Eve of Destruction as well, but it’s not a complete favorite of mine.
Near Miss
Near Miss
April 8, 2012
I received this book in the Goodreads book giveaway.
I hadn't read the first book, but I don't think I needed to. This book was easy to pick up and follow what was going on. I found myself pulled into the book and did not want to put it down until I finished it. It really was a page-turner!
I would definitely recommend this to all YA and up who like mysteries and thrillers. It reminded me of the James Patterson book, "When the Wind Blows", except Mr. Carman's writing was much better...
I hadn't read the first book, but I don't think I needed to. This book was easy to pick up and follow what was going on. I found myself pulled into the book and did not want to put it down until I finished it. It really was a page-turner!
I would definitely recommend this to all YA and up who like mysteries and thrillers. It reminded me of the James Patterson book, "When the Wind Blows", except Mr. Carman's writing was much better...
December 24, 2012
Ok, mythbusters.
I'm going to call this "implausible." Not because of the supernatural elements of the main plot. But because of the whole thing.
This just seemed throughout to be a little too conveniently and implausibly plotted. Will also spends a lot of time during what should be a terrifying experience mooning over Marisa.
It was just...meh. Not held together as well as the first book was.
I'm going to call this "implausible." Not because of the supernatural elements of the main plot. But because of the whole thing.
This just seemed throughout to be a little too conveniently and implausibly plotted. Will also spends a lot of time during what should be a terrifying experience mooning over Marisa.
It was just...meh. Not held together as well as the first book was.
June 26, 2012
I like how Patrick Carman makes this book so suspenseful and it's from the point of view of a kid stuck in a room for most of the book. The concept is interesting and I like how he ties the book with videos he has on a website. Reminds me of Atherton. I didn't like the cursing(even if it's not that much), because he didn't have those words in the first book. Overall it is just as good as the first.
October 27, 2014
I loved this sequel and I'm sad to see the books end, but this one combined with the original Dark Eden and the short story (that I definitely recommend buying/reading for only .99 on Amazon)! This one is a lot different than Dark Eden because it has a different premise - most of the facts are laid out and it's just whether the group will escape Dark Eden a second time or not.. :D
I gobbled these books up so fast!
I gobbled these books up so fast!
June 24, 2012
Mrs. Goring contacts Will and asks for him and the others whose fears were cured to return to Fort Eden. Everyone is shocked to learn Mrs, Goring and Will shared a secret about the man Rainsford who cured them. Now Mrs. Goring wants revenge on Rainsford, and it's up to Will and the others to carry it out for her.
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