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Mission Clockwork #4
Island of Doom
After previous assignments in London, the depths of the Atlantic Ocean, and the Australian rain forest, this final adventure in the Hunchback Assignments series finds our hero, shape-shifting, masked spy Modo, on his most personal quest. Along with fellow spy Octavia Milkweed, they search for Modo's biological parents. But when the Clockwork Guild find Modo's parents first, Octavia and Modo chase them across Europe and North America to the Island of Doom. Joined by memorable characters from the first three books--some lovable, and some who are terrifying and evil--Modo and Octavia dash towards a thrilling conclusion.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2012
23 people are currently reading
504 people want to read
About the author
Arthur Slade
73 books523 followersArthur Slade was raised in the Cypress Hills of southwest Saskatchewan and began writing at an early age. He is the author of the bestselling The Hunchback Assignments series of books, Dust (which won the Governor General's award), Tribes and Jolted. He lives in Saskatoon, Canada (which really is a real place). Join his creative & somewhat clever newsletter at: what a zany newsletter!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
July 9, 2013
This is the 4th book in the Hunchback Assignments series and supposedly the final book. Please let it not be so! I love this series. This title was not as good as the previous one, "Empire of Ruins", but it still was fantastic. The series is set in Victorian England, circa 1870.
In this book the Clockwork Guild are building bigger and more horrible experiments in their race to control the world. They now have a lab hidden away on a Pacific Island. Modo, the deformed boy who is able to change his appearance, and Octavia, the former street urchin, are two of Britain's best agents in the secret society called The Permanent Association. Modo was given away at birth by his parents, who were appalled at his ugliness. But the Guild is searching for his parents and that can only mean that they are working on some new horrible invention. Mr. Socrates, Modo and Octavia's boss, sends the two agents off to find Modo's parents first. This means a race across North America and Europe to the Pacific Island. Although this book ties up al of the ends neatly, there is potential for more stories about Modo and Tavia. This is a thoroughly fantastic series.
In this book the Clockwork Guild are building bigger and more horrible experiments in their race to control the world. They now have a lab hidden away on a Pacific Island. Modo, the deformed boy who is able to change his appearance, and Octavia, the former street urchin, are two of Britain's best agents in the secret society called The Permanent Association. Modo was given away at birth by his parents, who were appalled at his ugliness. But the Guild is searching for his parents and that can only mean that they are working on some new horrible invention. Mr. Socrates, Modo and Octavia's boss, sends the two agents off to find Modo's parents first. This means a race across North America and Europe to the Pacific Island. Although this book ties up al of the ends neatly, there is potential for more stories about Modo and Tavia. This is a thoroughly fantastic series.
August 1, 2012
I like this book but I didn’t love it. Yes, it had that same adventure with my favorite characters but for some reason I felt that Modo and Octavia were a bit off. I still can see how this book fits in with the others but to say this…this book is the final installment was a slight let down. I ordered this book from Canada because I was so excited and anxious to read it before the US release. Maybe my expectations were too high and this book didn't reach it...
I wanted fireworks but all I got was a lone bottle rocket with a small boom. Sorry…I just felt like something was missing in this final book…
I wanted fireworks but all I got was a lone bottle rocket with a small boom. Sorry…I just felt like something was missing in this final book…
October 2, 2013
I enjoyed this series a lot, there was lots of fun action scenes. It loosely follows the Hunchback of Notre Dame story. I would recommend this to anyone who likes YA-adventure books.
All in all it was a well written YA-adventure book with a Steampunk setting. If a 5th book comes out I will definitely read it.
All in all it was a well written YA-adventure book with a Steampunk setting. If a 5th book comes out I will definitely read it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 16, 2019
This might be the best book of a terrific series. I'd encourage anyone to read it. I certainly wish it was around when I was a reluctant young reader. High adventure, literary glimpses, and just great fun!
July 11, 2020
Another great in this enjoyable series. Modo has a mission to find his parents before someone else does, kept me guessing .
December 22, 2017
I just finished this book and the series. Six years after finishing book 3 in the series. It is not because I did not like it. In fact, the opposite. I loved this series, and the characters. Coming back to this series and reading about Modo and Octavia again was like visiting friends whom I had not seen in years. I held off reading this book because I did not want the adventure to end. In the interim between reading the first three and now, Arthur Slade has published this series internationally, and it has been rebranded from The Hunchback Assignments to Modo: Mission Clockwork. Both titles work for the series. And I can see pros and cons of both. Though I do really like the covers from the rebranded books.
This series has won numerous awards and for good reasons. Written for a younger audience it holds up incredibly well for older audiences. In fact, I consider the conclusion of this series much more satisfying than the Hunger Games, with each book in that series I liked it a little less. Whereas with Modo every new adventure I appreciated the character, the stories, and the writing more. This series has traversed the globe and even to the depths of the oceans. But in this volume, we encounter some new characters, are reintroduced to a few from previous books. This book is a wonderful mix of action, adventure, spy craft, and steampunk.
The book begins with Modo sort of being on the outs with Mr.Socrates. They are hiding out in Montreal, and most of the Permanent Association, that had been formed to preserve Britannia has for the most part been broken. There are few pockets left operating under separate authority. When word comes that the Clockwork Guild is looking for Modo's parents. There are journeys from Canada to France and back. Then across to the west coast of North America. Surprise might be the only thing that Mr. Socrates and his crew have going for them, but will it be enough to overcome this organization that has stayed one step ahead of them through all these adventures?
This story is an excellent read. The book and the whole series is amazing. And my children are just getting old enough that I plan on starting to reread these books with my oldest two. In some ways, these books are like a cross between Johnny Quest and a steam punk Mission Impossible. These stories are masterfully written and will draw readers of all ages in and keep their attention. Once you start reading one of these books you really do not want to put it down.
A wonderful book and series, give them a try I am sure you will enjoy them immensely.
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Arthur Slade. As well as an author profile and interview with Arthur.
This series has won numerous awards and for good reasons. Written for a younger audience it holds up incredibly well for older audiences. In fact, I consider the conclusion of this series much more satisfying than the Hunger Games, with each book in that series I liked it a little less. Whereas with Modo every new adventure I appreciated the character, the stories, and the writing more. This series has traversed the globe and even to the depths of the oceans. But in this volume, we encounter some new characters, are reintroduced to a few from previous books. This book is a wonderful mix of action, adventure, spy craft, and steampunk.
The book begins with Modo sort of being on the outs with Mr.Socrates. They are hiding out in Montreal, and most of the Permanent Association, that had been formed to preserve Britannia has for the most part been broken. There are few pockets left operating under separate authority. When word comes that the Clockwork Guild is looking for Modo's parents. There are journeys from Canada to France and back. Then across to the west coast of North America. Surprise might be the only thing that Mr. Socrates and his crew have going for them, but will it be enough to overcome this organization that has stayed one step ahead of them through all these adventures?
This story is an excellent read. The book and the whole series is amazing. And my children are just getting old enough that I plan on starting to reread these books with my oldest two. In some ways, these books are like a cross between Johnny Quest and a steam punk Mission Impossible. These stories are masterfully written and will draw readers of all ages in and keep their attention. Once you start reading one of these books you really do not want to put it down.
A wonderful book and series, give them a try I am sure you will enjoy them immensely.
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Arthur Slade. As well as an author profile and interview with Arthur.
July 27, 2018
Exceptional. This was my favourite book out of them all.
Being a massive fan of Victor Hugo's - 'The Hunchback Of Notre Dame' and Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein', I was in my element reading this. It has never been any great secret that Modo is loosely based on Quasimodo from Victor Hugo's classic. This book expands on this link to delve into Modo's past and explain his history in much more depth. There are some great elements of romanticism that are also on par with both aforementioned novels, making this a more varied read than the previous books. Having said this, there are some truly gruesome ideas that would not be out of place in the Steampunk film 'Army Of Frankenstein', as the Clockwork Guild go all out to create their most formidable weapons yet. The battles are fast paced and involved and the storyline is both tense and also quite deep at times. I was actually saddened when this particular episode ended, there were some poignant scenes before the all out finale.
I really hope we hear more from Modo soon, he has become a great underdog and a true hero!
Being a massive fan of Victor Hugo's - 'The Hunchback Of Notre Dame' and Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein', I was in my element reading this. It has never been any great secret that Modo is loosely based on Quasimodo from Victor Hugo's classic. This book expands on this link to delve into Modo's past and explain his history in much more depth. There are some great elements of romanticism that are also on par with both aforementioned novels, making this a more varied read than the previous books. Having said this, there are some truly gruesome ideas that would not be out of place in the Steampunk film 'Army Of Frankenstein', as the Clockwork Guild go all out to create their most formidable weapons yet. The battles are fast paced and involved and the storyline is both tense and also quite deep at times. I was actually saddened when this particular episode ended, there were some poignant scenes before the all out finale.
I really hope we hear more from Modo soon, he has become a great underdog and a true hero!
June 26, 2018
The last in the series so far, full of mystery, adventure and revelations. Old friends all the way from book 1 and new, including an old blind priest at Notre Dame Cathedral are mixed in for this action packed end of the series. Modo finally begins to grow into his own. Through his French connection developed in the Dark Deep, Modo learns more about himself and goes on a quest to discover his parentage. He begins to break away from Mr. Socrates and think about his own future.
There are ups and downs and not all the characters will survive which makes for some sad moments, but there's plenty of action as the Mr. Socrates begins his final showdown with the Clockwork Guild and the man behind it is revealed.
The end is rather apropos for the characters and while some of it is left a little open, it's in a good way that lends itself to some closure.
There are ups and downs and not all the characters will survive which makes for some sad moments, but there's plenty of action as the Mr. Socrates begins his final showdown with the Clockwork Guild and the man behind it is revealed.
The end is rather apropos for the characters and while some of it is left a little open, it's in a good way that lends itself to some closure.
May 13, 2017
This is the last book of a wonderful series from Arthur Slade, about a deformed young man named Modo with some unusual abilities. He is raised to be a spy in a secret organization designed to protect the British Empire. Each novel has travel, adventure, and coming-of-age tribulations deftly handled by the author. I appreciate how he can depict Modo’s struggles with identity and values without becoming bogged down or holding up the story. Each of these books has an enjoyable and complete storyline, and the conclusion ties up all the loose ends in a most satisfying way. I highly recommend the entire series.
May 6, 2018
The 4th book in Arthur Slade's Mission Clockwork series includes Modo's search for his parents and Mr. Socrates' attempt to overcome an wipe out the Clockwork Guild. Great action, incredible inventions and further character development, and a rip roaring conclusion!
Though his is the last in the series so far, the Author has indicated he may well add another one of these days. That will make me very happy along with his and Modo's many fans.
Though his is the last in the series so far, the Author has indicated he may well add another one of these days. That will make me very happy along with his and Modo's many fans.
October 10, 2023
Solid finish to the series. The characters grew in great ways and the major plot elements were wrapped up nicely. The story stayed inside the original frame (spies on missions) and didn't aim for world redefining twists (which I would have preferred). But it was executed well. Fun YA series.
July 20, 2017
A wonderfully original, well-written book.
November 4, 2018
Great book
April 11, 2022
Go MODO! Well this one seems to be the last one... maybe down the road there will be a volume 5... if so... i want to find out what Modo does on his own!
December 6, 2023
I would love to read more .
December 19, 2012
I was very critical of this book for a few reasons. I had just come off of reading books like the Lord of the Rings series which have their own standard; I hadn't read the series for months now and I had lost some interest in the story, and I just don't think the writing is very high caliber. All that being said, at the end of the day I like this book just as I like this series. Arthur Slade may not be a J.R.R. Tolkien, but he knows how to create a good story.
In this conclusion to the Hunchback Assignments I think everything wraps up nicely. Colette is brought back from the second book, The Dark Deeps, the history behind Modo's past is unhidden, and the final battle between the Permanent Association and the Clockwork Guild unfolds. In Island of Doom, Modo recieves a letter from Colette saying she has found his parents in France. Noting the eager anticipation and rising rebelliousness in Modo, Mr. Socrates sends Modo and Octavia on a mission to bring his supposed "parents" back to the Assiociation for their protection. From here the drama unfolds that reveals who Modo's true friends are, who his heart will go to, if to anyone, and the Clockwork Guild's greatest scheme yet.
The thing I like about this particular book is
Overall it's a good series. If you haven't read it and are looking for a good series to read then definitely pick up the Hunchback Assignments. It's not the best series ever, and you're not going to build an immediate fan crave over it, but it's a good series with a good plot, and that's all a good book really is. The writing may not be like Tolkien and just capture you with how it all flows, but the story will interest and enthrall you... And you'll find yourself pleased when you catch references to other books.
In this conclusion to the Hunchback Assignments I think everything wraps up nicely. Colette is brought back from the second book, The Dark Deeps, the history behind Modo's past is unhidden, and the final battle between the Permanent Association and the Clockwork Guild unfolds. In Island of Doom, Modo recieves a letter from Colette saying she has found his parents in France. Noting the eager anticipation and rising rebelliousness in Modo, Mr. Socrates sends Modo and Octavia on a mission to bring his supposed "parents" back to the Assiociation for their protection. From here the drama unfolds that reveals who Modo's true friends are, who his heart will go to, if to anyone, and the Clockwork Guild's greatest scheme yet.
The thing I like about this particular book is
Overall it's a good series. If you haven't read it and are looking for a good series to read then definitely pick up the Hunchback Assignments. It's not the best series ever, and you're not going to build an immediate fan crave over it, but it's a good series with a good plot, and that's all a good book really is. The writing may not be like Tolkien and just capture you with how it all flows, but the story will interest and enthrall you... And you'll find yourself pleased when you catch references to other books.
July 18, 2018
Modo's final adventure is not only an awesome ride but is also filled with probable and entertaining allusions to classical and well-known literature, including The Island of Doctor Moreau, Frankenstein, and The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
Although we've been given a slight glimpse of Modo's origins in the previous books (we know he came from a circus attraction as a baby), Book 4 takes us deeper into Modo's past when Modo receives a letter from the French Agent Colette Brunet claiming she has a lead on who his parents may be. Along with Octavia, Modo meets up with Colette and they try and track down his parents. However, the Clockwork Guild is also following a lead on Modo's parents. They believe that there might be something in Modo's parents' genetics that may help them create an army of self-healing, super strong soldiers. Already they've created a Frankenstein monster named Typhon using Modo's pinky, which Miss Hakkandottir sliced off and kept in Book 3.
While Modo is off chasing down his parents, the Clockwork Guild is hiding in the Crystal Palace on a remote island in the Pacific Ocean. On the island, the Guild Master and Dr. Hyde are working on the quintessential mad scientist project: sewing together human body parts and trying to bring the resulting monsters to life. Miss Hakkandottir supplies their diabolical plan by traveling the world and bringing back bodies. However, the Guild's monster cannot be brought to life without either a piece of Modo or possibly genetic material from Modo's parents.
As Modo, Octavia, and Colette get closer to finding Modo's parents, they run across the monster Typhon and a poetry-citing Guild agent named Lime. The battle that ensues does not end well for their group and the Guild ends up kidnapping Modo's mother. Modo and Octavia return to Canada empty-handed.
Through some espionage work, Mr. Socrates learns about the location of the Guild's secret island and the Association goes after them with a clever plan. The final battle that results is one of the best in the series (in my opinion, second only to the final battle in Book 2). Modo is eventually reunited with his mother but with unexpected results.
Like the other stories in the series, Book 4 is a raring adventure but also contains heart and thoughtful questions. In this installment, the big questions revolve around Modo's origin, why his parents gave him up, and whether or not they would accept him presently. Slade also continues Modo's struggle with his appearance, which is really a difficult one to address. I also enjoyed the mystery behind Modo's super strength and ability to self-heal.
Mr. Slade has truly brought to life a unique character (Modo) and exciting story line in contemporary fiction. Congratulations, Mr. Slade, on one heckuva great adventure!
Although we've been given a slight glimpse of Modo's origins in the previous books (we know he came from a circus attraction as a baby), Book 4 takes us deeper into Modo's past when Modo receives a letter from the French Agent Colette Brunet claiming she has a lead on who his parents may be. Along with Octavia, Modo meets up with Colette and they try and track down his parents. However, the Clockwork Guild is also following a lead on Modo's parents. They believe that there might be something in Modo's parents' genetics that may help them create an army of self-healing, super strong soldiers. Already they've created a Frankenstein monster named Typhon using Modo's pinky, which Miss Hakkandottir sliced off and kept in Book 3.
While Modo is off chasing down his parents, the Clockwork Guild is hiding in the Crystal Palace on a remote island in the Pacific Ocean. On the island, the Guild Master and Dr. Hyde are working on the quintessential mad scientist project: sewing together human body parts and trying to bring the resulting monsters to life. Miss Hakkandottir supplies their diabolical plan by traveling the world and bringing back bodies. However, the Guild's monster cannot be brought to life without either a piece of Modo or possibly genetic material from Modo's parents.
As Modo, Octavia, and Colette get closer to finding Modo's parents, they run across the monster Typhon and a poetry-citing Guild agent named Lime. The battle that ensues does not end well for their group and the Guild ends up kidnapping Modo's mother. Modo and Octavia return to Canada empty-handed.
Through some espionage work, Mr. Socrates learns about the location of the Guild's secret island and the Association goes after them with a clever plan. The final battle that results is one of the best in the series (in my opinion, second only to the final battle in Book 2). Modo is eventually reunited with his mother but with unexpected results.
Like the other stories in the series, Book 4 is a raring adventure but also contains heart and thoughtful questions. In this installment, the big questions revolve around Modo's origin, why his parents gave him up, and whether or not they would accept him presently. Slade also continues Modo's struggle with his appearance, which is really a difficult one to address. I also enjoyed the mystery behind Modo's super strength and ability to self-heal.
Mr. Slade has truly brought to life a unique character (Modo) and exciting story line in contemporary fiction. Congratulations, Mr. Slade, on one heckuva great adventure!
November 26, 2013
It took me all four books to discover what bugged me about these books. They were written ok following general grammar, spelling, punctuation, and not using too many adverbs. The problem was more subtle. The author disobeys "Show, don't tell" the entire time. This series seems like a summary of the adventures of Modo.
It happens in the large scale. I thought the idea behind using steampunk and the hunchback of Notre Dame was interesting, but it doesn't stay interesting. The characters don't seem to change much, if at all, in the course of the four books, they just have adventures. Their main changes are of a more bipolar sort, from Mr. Socrates either being annoyed with Modo as he would a disobedient agent or feeling fatherly of the boy he had raised, Modo, either loving the people he sees or being all sad cause he's ugly, or angry cause people think he's ugly. Octavia has two settings: fond of Modo and annoyed with Modo. She tries to be funny in the meantime, but if that doesn't fall flat, then Modo's response does.
And then at the micro-level, the author simply summarizes the details of the scene. Mr. Socrates unfolded a map. It looked "messy" to Octavia. Messy how? Was the ink smeared? The drawing rushed? The map worn? The room was strewn with medical equipment. Like a mess? Or just a large amount? In some sort of use? What did medical equipment look like in those days, anyway? And on.
I read Dust by Arthur Slade before and actually liked it. I was fascinated by the weird story and I loved that it was told from the perspective of a child, complete with his logic. But somehow, that ability doesn't work as well over here. We're dealing with older people, trained agents. They should do better than to hope that their acting coach brought them a present.
Soo... several things bugged me, but I'd say the summarizing the entire story was the biggest. You get general ideas of what's happening, but it's more akin to watching a puppet show with some narration than actually being there yourself.
It happens in the large scale. I thought the idea behind using steampunk and the hunchback of Notre Dame was interesting, but it doesn't stay interesting. The characters don't seem to change much, if at all, in the course of the four books, they just have adventures. Their main changes are of a more bipolar sort, from Mr. Socrates either being annoyed with Modo as he would a disobedient agent or feeling fatherly of the boy he had raised, Modo, either loving the people he sees or being all sad cause he's ugly, or angry cause people think he's ugly. Octavia has two settings: fond of Modo and annoyed with Modo. She tries to be funny in the meantime, but if that doesn't fall flat, then Modo's response does.
And then at the micro-level, the author simply summarizes the details of the scene. Mr. Socrates unfolded a map. It looked "messy" to Octavia. Messy how? Was the ink smeared? The drawing rushed? The map worn? The room was strewn with medical equipment. Like a mess? Or just a large amount? In some sort of use? What did medical equipment look like in those days, anyway? And on.
I read Dust by Arthur Slade before and actually liked it. I was fascinated by the weird story and I loved that it was told from the perspective of a child, complete with his logic. But somehow, that ability doesn't work as well over here. We're dealing with older people, trained agents. They should do better than to hope that their acting coach brought them a present.
Soo... several things bugged me, but I'd say the summarizing the entire story was the biggest. You get general ideas of what's happening, but it's more akin to watching a puppet show with some narration than actually being there yourself.
September 20, 2012
For those who have not followed this incredible series, Modo is a young man who was born with a deformity, and has the power to change his face and body in order to become a different person at will - which definitely comes in handy in his work as an agent for ‘The Permanent Association’ - which is a group whose job is to protect Britannia.
Through three previous adventures, Modo has found himself in many situations - from the mean streets of London to the Atlantic Ocean to the rain forest in Australia, but this time he is about to receive his ‘final’ assignment.
Recently, Modo was suspended from duty for disobeying Mr. Socrates, the man who raised him. But when a French agent named, Colette, returns and gets in touch with Mr. Socrates to let him know that the evil Clockwork Guild is gearing up for another fight, Modo and his fellow spy, Octavia, are pulled back in.
They must defeat the Guild who want to destroy the British Empire by bringing dead bodies back to life - an army that will fight the Association’s armor-clad soldiers.
Along with this epic war comes the fact that Modo believes he has finally found his birth parents, who abandoned him as a baby at the Cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris. Add to that the fact that Octavia and Collette are both trying to ‘capture’ his attention, and you have a very emotional conclusion to a truly fascinating series.
From the very beginning, this author has given YA readers a captivating character with Modo. Although his face was covered with a mask to hide his deformity, his heart was always full of magic that made readers want to stand by his side and see him win! This series is so special start with #1 and enjoy the captivating ride!
Until Next Time, Everybody,
Amy
Through three previous adventures, Modo has found himself in many situations - from the mean streets of London to the Atlantic Ocean to the rain forest in Australia, but this time he is about to receive his ‘final’ assignment.
Recently, Modo was suspended from duty for disobeying Mr. Socrates, the man who raised him. But when a French agent named, Colette, returns and gets in touch with Mr. Socrates to let him know that the evil Clockwork Guild is gearing up for another fight, Modo and his fellow spy, Octavia, are pulled back in.
They must defeat the Guild who want to destroy the British Empire by bringing dead bodies back to life - an army that will fight the Association’s armor-clad soldiers.
Along with this epic war comes the fact that Modo believes he has finally found his birth parents, who abandoned him as a baby at the Cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris. Add to that the fact that Octavia and Collette are both trying to ‘capture’ his attention, and you have a very emotional conclusion to a truly fascinating series.
From the very beginning, this author has given YA readers a captivating character with Modo. Although his face was covered with a mask to hide his deformity, his heart was always full of magic that made readers want to stand by his side and see him win! This series is so special start with #1 and enjoy the captivating ride!
Until Next Time, Everybody,
Amy
December 12, 2012
The final book in the Hunchback Assignments finds Modo and Octivia traveling to France in search of the parents who abandoned him as a baby. They are also determined to stop the Clockwork Guild once and for all.
Though this book didn't surpass the third as my favourite - eh, what can I say I like stories with airship battles - it is now the second favourite in the series. Modo is more grown up in this one and willing to question about whether what he is doing is right or wrong. And I was pleased with how it all ended, a very nice wrap up of everything.
I still was mad at Mr. Scoroties though and can only hope he later came to his senses. Oh yes, and Modo's mother. I was really mad at her.
Colette's death surprised me. I didn't think THAT would happen and am still sad over it. (After all, her and Tavia were becoming friends!)
Tavia was brilliant in this book. Her willingness to accept Modo how he was, willing to look at him without his mask, and then going with him when he left. She is definitely not the typical girl character and I am now very fond of her.
All my fears that the series might leave things hanging are now put to rest. The ending was brilliant, leaving plenty open for the imagination. (Such as what further adventures Modo and Tavia get into together. Look out, Britain! They are on the loose!)
Though this book didn't surpass the third as my favourite - eh, what can I say I like stories with airship battles - it is now the second favourite in the series. Modo is more grown up in this one and willing to question about whether what he is doing is right or wrong. And I was pleased with how it all ended, a very nice wrap up of everything.
I still was mad at Mr. Scoroties though and can only hope he later came to his senses. Oh yes, and Modo's mother. I was really mad at her.
Colette's death surprised me. I didn't think THAT would happen and am still sad over it. (After all, her and Tavia were becoming friends!)
Tavia was brilliant in this book. Her willingness to accept Modo how he was, willing to look at him without his mask, and then going with him when he left. She is definitely not the typical girl character and I am now very fond of her.
All my fears that the series might leave things hanging are now put to rest. The ending was brilliant, leaving plenty open for the imagination. (Such as what further adventures Modo and Tavia get into together. Look out, Britain! They are on the loose!)
April 12, 2013
The final book in this series is a splendid, rollicking adventure. Almost every kind of derring-do meets our favourite team of 'Tavia and Modo as they travel from Montreal, Canada to France then London and end up on a South Pacific Island. A mixture of steampunk and Frankenstein meet with the horrid collection of human and steel warriors vs super creatures sewn together from parts of corpses and enlivened by the maternal blood of Modo. Even though it has been a year since last reading about Modo, I jumped straight into this volume and was hooked from chapter one. This is one of those books that you wonder why you are reading so slowly then all of a sudden your brain just can't keep up with your hand's eagerness to turn the pages. I'm very pleased with how everything has been finished off. There is a satisfying final end but various threads are left to quietly dangle and any one could easily be picked up to start anew somewhere else down the line. In fact, I've seen the work for the new Graphic Novel that will be coming out as a standalone story and can only say "Thank God" this really isn't the end for Modo!
July 16, 2012
WOW! What an amazing final installment. Seriously, give this book a whirl. It will BLOW YOUR MIND! The shape-shifting hero, Modo, and his companions, Octavia Milkweed, Colette Brunet, Tharpa, Mr. Socrates, Oppie Entwistle, Ester McGravin are about to make one final assault on the clockwork guild, and stop them for good. The amazing writing, the nonstop action, and the sheer scale of it makes this book a hit.
Arthur Slade has also added a few new characters, such as Footman, Cook, Typhon, Lime and even The Guild Master to the cast.
When Modo realizes he is of french heritage, he and Octavia journey to France in search of his real parents. Joined by Colette Brunet, the trio figure out that they are not the only ones that are searching for Modo's parents. Clockwork Guild spies have heard of Modo's gifts and are intent of capturing his parents for numerous experiments. Their adventures eventually bring them to The Island of Doom, where The Permanent Association goes against the Clockwork Guild, for one final battle.
Arthur Slade has also added a few new characters, such as Footman, Cook, Typhon, Lime and even The Guild Master to the cast.
When Modo realizes he is of french heritage, he and Octavia journey to France in search of his real parents. Joined by Colette Brunet, the trio figure out that they are not the only ones that are searching for Modo's parents. Clockwork Guild spies have heard of Modo's gifts and are intent of capturing his parents for numerous experiments. Their adventures eventually bring them to The Island of Doom, where The Permanent Association goes against the Clockwork Guild, for one final battle.
January 12, 2020
And so this quite entertaining series comes to an end. It was fun, kept on moving along at a good pace, well written and edited.
The only downside was the ending went a bit down hill. Like Hyde has created and unleashed the fraken-creatures-from-hell-that-can't-be-stopped-because-they're-already-dead and then ...
... well i won't spoil it. But it was rather silly to say the least.
So yeah, i was expecting a much more rip-roaring ending, but it all ended well in the end so i won't labour the point.
To sum up all four books: it's a great adventure if you're not looking for something to take too seriously. If you're feeling in the need for some far fetched silly then this might be the series for you. I certainly enjoyed reading it as i like a bit of far-fetched silly now and again. I'd put it on the bookshelf next to Magnificent Devices, as that's enjoyable, far-fetched silly in much the same way.
The only downside was the ending went a bit down hill. Like Hyde has created and unleashed the fraken-creatures-from-hell-that-can't-be-stopped-because-they're-already-dead and then ...
... well i won't spoil it. But it was rather silly to say the least.
So yeah, i was expecting a much more rip-roaring ending, but it all ended well in the end so i won't labour the point.
To sum up all four books: it's a great adventure if you're not looking for something to take too seriously. If you're feeling in the need for some far fetched silly then this might be the series for you. I certainly enjoyed reading it as i like a bit of far-fetched silly now and again. I'd put it on the bookshelf next to Magnificent Devices, as that's enjoyable, far-fetched silly in much the same way.
March 28, 2013
Ok yes, I'm a little sad that this is the last book in "The Hunchback Assignment" series, but the good news is the author is trying to make a continuation story about Modo and Octavia called "Modo: Ember's End," and is a steampunk Wild West adventure. Check out the series website for more info and to help fund the project: http://www.hunchbackassignments.com/. I think it would be awesome.
In this volume, Modo and Octavia are on the search for Modo's parents, with the help of Colette (the French Secret Service agent from Book #2), before the Clockwork Guild can do the same thing. The Guild has used the sample they got from Modo in the previous book to engineer Frankenstein-like monsters as their new weapons of choice. Modo, Octavia, Mr. Socrates and Tharpa discover the location of the Island of Doom, the Guild's headquarters and things are set for a final showdown between the two organizations. Recommended for ages 11+, 3 1/2 stars.
In this volume, Modo and Octavia are on the search for Modo's parents, with the help of Colette (the French Secret Service agent from Book #2), before the Clockwork Guild can do the same thing. The Guild has used the sample they got from Modo in the previous book to engineer Frankenstein-like monsters as their new weapons of choice. Modo, Octavia, Mr. Socrates and Tharpa discover the location of the Island of Doom, the Guild's headquarters and things are set for a final showdown between the two organizations. Recommended for ages 11+, 3 1/2 stars.
March 24, 2016
When Colette Burnet visits Modo, he is told that his birth parents are still alive.
In this final adventure with Modo, Slade pays homage to Victor Hugo, who is the major source of inspiration for the plot.
Other authors that Slade draws inspiration are: H.G. Wells, Lewis Carroll, Robert Lewis Stevenson, and Mary Shelly.
The fun reference that younger readers may not catch is to a 70's era television show: "Kung Fu."
There is even imagery barrowed from Grimm's fairytale of "Snow White."
Slade maintains Shelly's ending, while at the same time, he allows Modo to mature and become his own person.
In this final adventure with Modo, Slade pays homage to Victor Hugo, who is the major source of inspiration for the plot.
Other authors that Slade draws inspiration are: H.G. Wells, Lewis Carroll, Robert Lewis Stevenson, and Mary Shelly.
The fun reference that younger readers may not catch is to a 70's era television show: "Kung Fu."
There is even imagery barrowed from Grimm's fairytale of "Snow White."
Slade maintains Shelly's ending, while at the same time, he allows Modo to mature and become his own person.
May 12, 2018
This last instalment in the Modo series is a whopper of a finale, with Modo discovering his roots, battling to save his parents, and to take down the Clockwork Guild once and for all. I won't tell you what happens - it'd be the ultimate spoiler! - but we see lots of old characters from the previous books, fighting galore, love, betrayal, and an ending that will make you sigh and smile. Loved it, and truly recommend it for all Modo fans. Just so sad it's the end of the series - think I'll have to reread them all whenever I need a Modo fix!
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
October 28, 2013
Arthur Slade created a loveable and inspiring character in Modo, and I was caught up in the hunchback's life as soon as I started the first book. But, unfortunately, the author didn't deliver at all in the last book, The Island of Doom. Nothing happened the way I wanted it to...in fact, nothing happened at all. By the end of the book, we're back at square 1 and nothing has been accomplished in Modo's life other than the fact that he is an incredible spy. I wanted this book to be good, but it just didn't deliver.
June 14, 2021
Capita spesso che il volume finale (o episodio finale nel caso di una serie TV) mi deluda, e questo non ha fatto eccezione.
Certo, si conclude la serie. Certo, c'è il grande scontro con i cattivi, battaglie, morti sul campo. Ma mi ha messo molta tristezza il come interagisce Modo con gli altri personaggi, come si è comportato Mr Socrates nel suoi confronti, Octavia e la sua amicizia con Modo.
Insomma, non mi ha accontentato. Ed è un peccato perchè i primi 3 volumi meritano moltissimo, ed è decisamente underrated.
Certo, si conclude la serie. Certo, c'è il grande scontro con i cattivi, battaglie, morti sul campo. Ma mi ha messo molta tristezza il come interagisce Modo con gli altri personaggi, come si è comportato Mr Socrates nel suoi confronti, Octavia e la sua amicizia con Modo.
Insomma, non mi ha accontentato. Ed è un peccato perchè i primi 3 volumi meritano moltissimo, ed è decisamente underrated.
August 7, 2016
I love the Hunchback Assignment series and am truly sorry to see it come to a close with this, the fourth book, Island of Doom. Modo and Octavia head out to find Modo's parents. That pursuit does not turn out well. Without giving too much away, though, I can say that the series ended on a positive note. What I do not understand about this series is that I cannot get more students to read it. Perhaps the Victorian era does not grab the elementary crowd the way it does me!
May 6, 2018
The 4th book in Arthur Slade's Mission Clockwork series includes Modo's search for his parents and Mr. Socrates' attempt to finally overcome an wipe out the Clockwork Guild. Great action, incredible inventions and further character development, plus a rip roaring conclusion!
Thought his is the last in the series so far, the author has indicated he may well add another, one of these days. That will make me very happy along with his and Modo's many fans.
Thought his is the last in the series so far, the author has indicated he may well add another, one of these days. That will make me very happy along with his and Modo's many fans.
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