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Scepter #2
The Emerald of Phaunos (Scepter) (Volume 2) by Scott L Collins
Argyle has taken control of Castiglias, forced many of its citizens into slavery, and cast the others out into the wild. AND he’s destroyed the Scepter of Harmony, a key to the prosperity of the kingdom. Daniel now holds the stoneless Scepter as his bitter reward for saving the fairy settlement. What would happen if the stones were gathered and the Scepter reassembled? Daniel, Aidan, Olivia, and Lilly set out to locate and take back the Emerald of Phaunos, one of the four gems that gave the Scepter its power. King Argyle’s army of diegylis, a half man/half werewolf beast, will stop at nothing to catch the four rebels. The tree people in the Acheron forest now possess the emerald. It will take all the strength and determination the young band can rally to recover the stolen emerald. But can they do it before the diegylis destroy them?
- GenresFantasy
Paperback
First published January 25, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
February 20, 2014
As we rejoin Daniel, Aidan, Olivia, and Lilly on their quest to restore the Scepter of Harmony to its former glory, Mr. Collins does an excellent job reminding us where we left off from the previous book. My reading time is precious and I am always concerned that I may need to go back and reread the first book of a series, to remind myself where a book left off and the elements of the story. Needless to say my worry here was unfounded. This in itself is one sign of a good storyteller in my book.
My only complaint would be that the story bogs down a bit when the kids are traveling between different parts of the kingdom. Condensing the travel time would improve the pace of the story. Other than that I loved the relationships of the characters and this is what makes this story work for me. A new member is added to the group and each character proves their own strengths and play well off each other. There is strife within this group that adds realism to the relationships and depth to their characters. The obstacles this small band were faced with and their willingness to cooperate with each other help them to overcome almost insurmountable odds.
The creatures that Mr. Collins has created in this epic fantasy are creative and unique. They were imaginative and horrific, but age appropriate enough to be thrilling for middle grade students. Our villain, King Argyle, continues to prove himself to be an evil dictator that needs vanquishing. Will our small band be able to continue to evade the formidable army of diegylis hunting them and have the fortitude to complete their quest to restore the scepter? Recovering the stones seems to be the only answer to bring peace and prosperity back to the kingdom of Castiglias and the world beyond. So far this journey has been a roller coaster ride of devastating setbacks with small triumphs that bond this band together as they gather allies and defeat foes standing in their way. I can't wait to see how the kids manage to bring the different factions of this world together to accomplish their quest.
FYI: Although the second book in the series the author does a good job of refreshing memories for those who have forgotten what happened in the first book. This also makes it possible to read this book as a standalone.
Format/Typo Issues: I noticed no issues with editing or formatting.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.** February 16, 2014
My only complaint would be that the story bogs down a bit when the kids are traveling between different parts of the kingdom. Condensing the travel time would improve the pace of the story. Other than that I loved the relationships of the characters and this is what makes this story work for me. A new member is added to the group and each character proves their own strengths and play well off each other. There is strife within this group that adds realism to the relationships and depth to their characters. The obstacles this small band were faced with and their willingness to cooperate with each other help them to overcome almost insurmountable odds.
The creatures that Mr. Collins has created in this epic fantasy are creative and unique. They were imaginative and horrific, but age appropriate enough to be thrilling for middle grade students. Our villain, King Argyle, continues to prove himself to be an evil dictator that needs vanquishing. Will our small band be able to continue to evade the formidable army of diegylis hunting them and have the fortitude to complete their quest to restore the scepter? Recovering the stones seems to be the only answer to bring peace and prosperity back to the kingdom of Castiglias and the world beyond. So far this journey has been a roller coaster ride of devastating setbacks with small triumphs that bond this band together as they gather allies and defeat foes standing in their way. I can't wait to see how the kids manage to bring the different factions of this world together to accomplish their quest.
FYI: Although the second book in the series the author does a good job of refreshing memories for those who have forgotten what happened in the first book. This also makes it possible to read this book as a standalone.
Format/Typo Issues: I noticed no issues with editing or formatting.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.** February 16, 2014
March 24, 2014
Magical adventure complete with evil lemon-eating king and slimy villains!
Brief synopsis: Daniel, Aidan, Olivia and Lilly continue on their journey from when we last saw them in the first book, Scepter. Queen Iris of the fairies gave them the scepter and they are now hunting for the jewels that give it power. The first one they decide to look for is the emerald, which holds magic power for the earth.
Of course, they are also still on the run from the evil king, Argyle. He is determined to have them captured so he can torture and punish them for threatening his collection squads. He needs his cinnabar and and he needs it now. More children, more slaves!.
The story is perfect for middle-grade children and preteens who enjoy the fantasy genre. Big kids will love the story, too, but it is written for a junior high level. The story unfolds in mystical places including beneath the white mountain and the Arcelot Forest. Scott Collins does a great job bringing the reader into the scene, especially when the forest is coming to life.
Originality: Mr. Collins has created an original story with this group of children who each have their special talents. They each play an important role in their survival as they try to save the people from the tyrant king, Argyle and hope to find their families. The creatures they face along the way are colorful, including something like a gigantic jellyfish, half-men-half werewolf diegylis and strange gorillas. I did get hung up a little bit with the building of many, many campfires and places to sleep for the night, but I also knew that meant something was right around the corner.
Characters: The characters are believable, even possessing the riff and raff between Daniel and Aidan as two brothers would. Just because they are in a jeopardy situation, doesn’t mean that would go away and Collins does a great job of keeping them real and true to their age. I like Lilly’s character. She’s blind, but never let’s it stop or discourage her and she remains strong and independent. I liked the addition of Zack, but his stuttering was a little distracting.
Collins does a fantastic job creating animosity toward his villain. Argyle is evil ogre of a king. He starves his people, not even allowing them the scraps from the floor, and he eats lemons. His heart is small, and black as coal. He works his people to their deaths. He possesses magic that will be dangerous for the children as they try to evade him and find the other jewels.
Then, there is Fracik, who is bad, yet you feel for him. His memories of his long lost wife and daughter haunt him. I kept wondering if he was going to turn into a good guy.
Recommendation: This book goes well with chocolate chip cookies and ice cold milk. I would highly recommend this series to middle-grade children who enjoy a magical adventure and learning a few lessons along the way.
Brief synopsis: Daniel, Aidan, Olivia and Lilly continue on their journey from when we last saw them in the first book, Scepter. Queen Iris of the fairies gave them the scepter and they are now hunting for the jewels that give it power. The first one they decide to look for is the emerald, which holds magic power for the earth.
Of course, they are also still on the run from the evil king, Argyle. He is determined to have them captured so he can torture and punish them for threatening his collection squads. He needs his cinnabar and and he needs it now. More children, more slaves!.
The story is perfect for middle-grade children and preteens who enjoy the fantasy genre. Big kids will love the story, too, but it is written for a junior high level. The story unfolds in mystical places including beneath the white mountain and the Arcelot Forest. Scott Collins does a great job bringing the reader into the scene, especially when the forest is coming to life.
Originality: Mr. Collins has created an original story with this group of children who each have their special talents. They each play an important role in their survival as they try to save the people from the tyrant king, Argyle and hope to find their families. The creatures they face along the way are colorful, including something like a gigantic jellyfish, half-men-half werewolf diegylis and strange gorillas. I did get hung up a little bit with the building of many, many campfires and places to sleep for the night, but I also knew that meant something was right around the corner.
Characters: The characters are believable, even possessing the riff and raff between Daniel and Aidan as two brothers would. Just because they are in a jeopardy situation, doesn’t mean that would go away and Collins does a great job of keeping them real and true to their age. I like Lilly’s character. She’s blind, but never let’s it stop or discourage her and she remains strong and independent. I liked the addition of Zack, but his stuttering was a little distracting.
Collins does a fantastic job creating animosity toward his villain. Argyle is evil ogre of a king. He starves his people, not even allowing them the scraps from the floor, and he eats lemons. His heart is small, and black as coal. He works his people to their deaths. He possesses magic that will be dangerous for the children as they try to evade him and find the other jewels.
Then, there is Fracik, who is bad, yet you feel for him. His memories of his long lost wife and daughter haunt him. I kept wondering if he was going to turn into a good guy.
Recommendation: This book goes well with chocolate chip cookies and ice cold milk. I would highly recommend this series to middle-grade children who enjoy a magical adventure and learning a few lessons along the way.
March 2, 2014
This second book is just as good, moving and creative as the first one. I loved it, and I know kids and teens will love it too. I read this in one sitting, and I'll bet kids will too. The downside is the third one isn't out yet.
The story about four kids that grew up too fast from circumstances beyond their control, truths beyond their years, and morals that keep them straight has all the markings for an exciting, and enduring venture. And that's exactly what it was with showers of contrast and really creative twists the plot is full of surprises, and yet Scott weaves several bits of quality lessons into the story which I found to be really wonderful.
The fantasy in the story is really creative with the different people, animals and whatchamacallits keeping it lively and very entertaining. The story concept is simple but the writing takes it to a whole new level with inventive scenes that keep you turning the pages until the end.
These four kids learn things about each other, themselves, and life. They understand how it should be, the evil that is and can be, and what can be done to change it. They brave the elements, the unknown obstacles in their paths and face their fears head on, but they don't show any less of the reality of what they would show emotionally if it really happened. The characters are kept real and personal allowing you to get to know them, like them, and cheer for them. You have to laugh with them, feel sorry for them, hope they survive, and run with them when they need to.
The value of family is evident in this story, not only in their need to see and maybe even save their parents, but realizing that they are also a family all their own. They come to realize that they care for, love, help, and most of all need each other more than they had ever anticipated. What started out as scared kids not knowing what to do with their new situation in life soon became a family of kids determined to turn things back to the way they should be. Hopefully back to the way they were. Although I have a feeling that after going through all this, it won't be quite what they want either. I think a new way of life is on the horizon.
As these children go through their mission fighting to survive, the reader will feel the determination, and revel in their successes. It's a quality book for children and young adults that will be greatly enjoyed and talked about with their friends. I have sent these to children I believed would really enjoy them, and know some have already. This series is a great gift to a child you know.
The story about four kids that grew up too fast from circumstances beyond their control, truths beyond their years, and morals that keep them straight has all the markings for an exciting, and enduring venture. And that's exactly what it was with showers of contrast and really creative twists the plot is full of surprises, and yet Scott weaves several bits of quality lessons into the story which I found to be really wonderful.
The fantasy in the story is really creative with the different people, animals and whatchamacallits keeping it lively and very entertaining. The story concept is simple but the writing takes it to a whole new level with inventive scenes that keep you turning the pages until the end.
These four kids learn things about each other, themselves, and life. They understand how it should be, the evil that is and can be, and what can be done to change it. They brave the elements, the unknown obstacles in their paths and face their fears head on, but they don't show any less of the reality of what they would show emotionally if it really happened. The characters are kept real and personal allowing you to get to know them, like them, and cheer for them. You have to laugh with them, feel sorry for them, hope they survive, and run with them when they need to.
The value of family is evident in this story, not only in their need to see and maybe even save their parents, but realizing that they are also a family all their own. They come to realize that they care for, love, help, and most of all need each other more than they had ever anticipated. What started out as scared kids not knowing what to do with their new situation in life soon became a family of kids determined to turn things back to the way they should be. Hopefully back to the way they were. Although I have a feeling that after going through all this, it won't be quite what they want either. I think a new way of life is on the horizon.
As these children go through their mission fighting to survive, the reader will feel the determination, and revel in their successes. It's a quality book for children and young adults that will be greatly enjoyed and talked about with their friends. I have sent these to children I believed would really enjoy them, and know some have already. This series is a great gift to a child you know.
May 1, 2014
I was pleasantly surprised to see “Scepter: The Emerald of Phaunos” by Scott Collins turn up on Reader’s Favorite list of available books. It hasn’t been all so long ago that I read and reviewed the first episode of Scepter, prior to joining Reader’s Favorite as a reviewer. This is a great YA story about four kids with unusual abilities pitted against the evil king Argyle. In the first episode, Argyle had long since destroyed the Scepter and enslaved everyone in his kingdom over the age of twelve. These slaves work night and day to produce a substance known as “cinnabar” that Argyle needs to produce his magic; one spell of which is to keep him young! Daniel, with the ability to run and move lightning fast, and his brother, Aidan—a changeling who can assume the identity of any animal, saved the lives of two girls whose parents had been abducted into slavery in the first episode. Olivia, whose talent is an uncanny ability as a sharpshooter and her sister, the blind Lilly—who can find anything without sight join the brothers in the search for the jewels that give power to the Scepter, a tool/weapon that can overthrow Argyle and restore peace and prosperity to the land.
Now, in “The Emerald of Phaunos” this valiant group of warrior children has the Scepter and one of the jewels. There are three more to be retrieved before the final showdown against Argyle. Obtaining these jewels is not easy as Argyle’s deadly creatures, the diegylis—half werewolf, half human are hot on the trail, as well as other deadly creatures lurking along the routes they must follow in order to obtain the jewels. Let’s not forget, too, that the jewels are not easy to find and their current holders aren’t necessarily eager to give them up. Fortunately, there are also friendly creatures that aid and assist the children in their quest, in particular the Fairies, a clan of Centaurs and a she-Dragon that Aidan has befriended. Mr. Collins does an excellent job of narrative detailing without telling; he shows what’s going on, and that makes for a quick and enjoyable read. The characters are engaging, life-like and I cared about them. The plot and sub-plots are well thought out and executed. “The Emerald of Phaunos”, in fact the entire Scepter series to date, is an excellent YA fantasy adventure that I can, without the slightest hesitation, recommend to all fantasy adventure fans, regardless of age.
Now, in “The Emerald of Phaunos” this valiant group of warrior children has the Scepter and one of the jewels. There are three more to be retrieved before the final showdown against Argyle. Obtaining these jewels is not easy as Argyle’s deadly creatures, the diegylis—half werewolf, half human are hot on the trail, as well as other deadly creatures lurking along the routes they must follow in order to obtain the jewels. Let’s not forget, too, that the jewels are not easy to find and their current holders aren’t necessarily eager to give them up. Fortunately, there are also friendly creatures that aid and assist the children in their quest, in particular the Fairies, a clan of Centaurs and a she-Dragon that Aidan has befriended. Mr. Collins does an excellent job of narrative detailing without telling; he shows what’s going on, and that makes for a quick and enjoyable read. The characters are engaging, life-like and I cared about them. The plot and sub-plots are well thought out and executed. “The Emerald of Phaunos”, in fact the entire Scepter series to date, is an excellent YA fantasy adventure that I can, without the slightest hesitation, recommend to all fantasy adventure fans, regardless of age.
September 27, 2014
I recently read (and reviewed) Scepter by Scott Collins. Scepter was the first book of this series, and I loved it, so, naturally, I had to read the second book. Read on for my thoughts!
Synopsis (from the author): Argyle has taken control of Castiglias, forced many of its citizens into slavery, and cast the others out into the wild. AND he’s destroyed the Scepter of Harmony, a key to the prosperity of the kingdom.
Daniel now holds the stoneless Scepter as his bitter reward for saving the fairy settlement. What would happen if the stones were gathered and the Scepter reassembled? Daniel, Aidan, Olivia, and Lilly set out to locate and take back the Emerald of Phaunos, one of the four gems that gave the Scepter its power.
King Argyle’s army of diegylis, a half man/half werewolf beast, will stop at nothing to catch the four rebels. The tree people in the Acheron forest now possess the emerald. It will take all the strength and determination the young band can rally to recover the stolen emerald. But can they do it before the diegylis destroy them?
What I liked: Continuity of the story in a series is very important to me. Scott Collins did a great job of transitioning form one book to the next. The story picked up where the first book left off and I was immediately drawn back into the tale. The interaction between the characters was first rate, the plotting was very good, as was the storyline. The action scenes were very well done, and the introduction of new characters helped move the story along.
What I didn’t like: Unlike the first book, this book moved at a slightly slower pace, but I still enjoyed the read. And, it certainly doesn’t prevent me from looking forward to the next installment!
Overall impression: Like the first book of the series, Scott Collins does a great job telling his story. Full of characters that I liked, magic that you want to believe in, and a world that is crying out for heroes, The Emerald of Phaunos is an excellent continuation of the series! I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys fantasy and adventure!
Synopsis (from the author): Argyle has taken control of Castiglias, forced many of its citizens into slavery, and cast the others out into the wild. AND he’s destroyed the Scepter of Harmony, a key to the prosperity of the kingdom.
Daniel now holds the stoneless Scepter as his bitter reward for saving the fairy settlement. What would happen if the stones were gathered and the Scepter reassembled? Daniel, Aidan, Olivia, and Lilly set out to locate and take back the Emerald of Phaunos, one of the four gems that gave the Scepter its power.
King Argyle’s army of diegylis, a half man/half werewolf beast, will stop at nothing to catch the four rebels. The tree people in the Acheron forest now possess the emerald. It will take all the strength and determination the young band can rally to recover the stolen emerald. But can they do it before the diegylis destroy them?
What I liked: Continuity of the story in a series is very important to me. Scott Collins did a great job of transitioning form one book to the next. The story picked up where the first book left off and I was immediately drawn back into the tale. The interaction between the characters was first rate, the plotting was very good, as was the storyline. The action scenes were very well done, and the introduction of new characters helped move the story along.
What I didn’t like: Unlike the first book, this book moved at a slightly slower pace, but I still enjoyed the read. And, it certainly doesn’t prevent me from looking forward to the next installment!
Overall impression: Like the first book of the series, Scott Collins does a great job telling his story. Full of characters that I liked, magic that you want to believe in, and a world that is crying out for heroes, The Emerald of Phaunos is an excellent continuation of the series! I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys fantasy and adventure!
July 23, 2016
Friends and Enemies
In the first thrilling book of the series, Scepter, the evil usurper Argyle destroyed the Scepter of Harmony and used the stones as payment to the mercenaries who had helped him complete his coup d'état. After defeating King Rai, Argyle needed a continuous supply of cinnabar. The substance stoked his powers like coal in a furnace.
After their parents were forced into slavery in dark cinnabar mines, siblings Daniel and Aidan are alone in the world. To escape their parents' fate, they fled. During their harrowing journey, they joined forces with sisters Olivia and Lilly.
In the sequel, the Emerald of Phaunos, the four teens continue their mission to reassemble the Staff of Harmony. They hope the restored staff, wielded by a person of honor, will bring peace and prosperity back to the beleaguered kingdom.
Emerald of Phaunos was a gift from the fairies. The stone was blessed to help the humans with their crops. Its power is harmony and influence over the land, the earth.
Brothers Atreyu and Halem discover it's important to finish what is stared. They intend to join Daniel, Aidan, Olivia, and Lilly in their journey only as far as their home. The two boys want to return to Exile and hide from Argyle's minions. The battle is not theirs, they protest. When they get to Exile, they learn that hiding is no longer an option.
The Emerald of Phaunos, by Scott Collins, is a well-written and well-crafted young adult fantasy. The teens grow and develop during their quest, and learn many important lessons. For example, determining the differences between monsters and allies does not hinge on the outward appearance.
In the first thrilling book of the series, Scepter, the evil usurper Argyle destroyed the Scepter of Harmony and used the stones as payment to the mercenaries who had helped him complete his coup d'état. After defeating King Rai, Argyle needed a continuous supply of cinnabar. The substance stoked his powers like coal in a furnace.
After their parents were forced into slavery in dark cinnabar mines, siblings Daniel and Aidan are alone in the world. To escape their parents' fate, they fled. During their harrowing journey, they joined forces with sisters Olivia and Lilly.
In the sequel, the Emerald of Phaunos, the four teens continue their mission to reassemble the Staff of Harmony. They hope the restored staff, wielded by a person of honor, will bring peace and prosperity back to the beleaguered kingdom.
Emerald of Phaunos was a gift from the fairies. The stone was blessed to help the humans with their crops. Its power is harmony and influence over the land, the earth.
Brothers Atreyu and Halem discover it's important to finish what is stared. They intend to join Daniel, Aidan, Olivia, and Lilly in their journey only as far as their home. The two boys want to return to Exile and hide from Argyle's minions. The battle is not theirs, they protest. When they get to Exile, they learn that hiding is no longer an option.
The Emerald of Phaunos, by Scott Collins, is a well-written and well-crafted young adult fantasy. The teens grow and develop during their quest, and learn many important lessons. For example, determining the differences between monsters and allies does not hinge on the outward appearance.
July 31, 2015
The voyage to bring the scepter back together begins in this second edition of Scott L. Collins's fantasy series. The action builds up as Daniel, Aidan, Olivia, and Lilly travel to locate the first of four jewels, the Emerald of Phaunos. The action also builds as they get chased by diegylis, an evil hybrid of a human and werewolf that was created by the evil King Argyle. This second edition packs in a lot more excitement than the first novel which should be expected for the second part of a series. Scott Collins also does a wonderful job of bringing the bad guys to life for the first time in this series. The reader gets to experience King Argyle for the first time and see what makes him so evil, but the best character has to be the leader of the diegylis pack, Fracik. His struggle between following the wishes of his master and finding a way to a life of joy that he once lived is fascinating and I can't wait to see how it plays out in the next installment of the story. Middle school students should absolutely love this book, especially if they are into fantasy worlds. Adults might still find the main characters taken from standard stock, but it is not enough to detract from the overall enjoyment of the story. It adds just enough excitement to leave the reader ready for the next book and have the hope that it comes out soon.
March 2, 2014
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The story continues from the first book. We see more of how vicious Argyle is and how he continues to rule. The kids are clever and persistent in their quest to help get rid of Argyle. With some changes to their group, we meet new and interesting creatures and people as well as revisit others from the first book. Again, I feel the story tends to drag as the kids make their journey. I'd be concerned that a less diligent reader might be discouraged with how the story plods along and may loose interest in the story. The story line is great, however it feels like the author is committed to writing a set number of words and has to fill in some gaps, hence the never ending journeying back and forth. I hope the author keeps this in mind for the next book.
The story continues from the first book. We see more of how vicious Argyle is and how he continues to rule. The kids are clever and persistent in their quest to help get rid of Argyle. With some changes to their group, we meet new and interesting creatures and people as well as revisit others from the first book. Again, I feel the story tends to drag as the kids make their journey. I'd be concerned that a less diligent reader might be discouraged with how the story plods along and may loose interest in the story. The story line is great, however it feels like the author is committed to writing a set number of words and has to fill in some gaps, hence the never ending journeying back and forth. I hope the author keeps this in mind for the next book.
August 9, 2016
The second episode in the story of how a mismatched group of children manage to survive against amazing odds to creep closer to their goal of freeing their country from the tyranny of Argyle, Castiglias' ruler.
I must admit, my favourite character in this book had to be the Fracik, leader of the diegylis, half-man, half-werewolf creatures that are sensitive to sunlight. A villain he may be in his own right, as it's his job to lead the diegylis pack to hunt down Aidan, Olivia, Lilly and Daniel, but he has his own past tragedies, too, with a family he dreams about even as he does his duty to the man who took them from him. I think he'll be an interesting character to watch as the series progresses.
Most definitely a children's book - I suspect if there were the possibility of any kissing in it, one of the children would cry, "Gross!"
I must admit, my favourite character in this book had to be the Fracik, leader of the diegylis, half-man, half-werewolf creatures that are sensitive to sunlight. A villain he may be in his own right, as it's his job to lead the diegylis pack to hunt down Aidan, Olivia, Lilly and Daniel, but he has his own past tragedies, too, with a family he dreams about even as he does his duty to the man who took them from him. I think he'll be an interesting character to watch as the series progresses.
Most definitely a children's book - I suspect if there were the possibility of any kissing in it, one of the children would cry, "Gross!"
November 8, 2014
It's a quest. It's revenge. It's fantasy for everyone.
In the land of Castiglias, things are not going well. Since the usurper Agryle took the throne, this land, once pleasant, is now fraught with danger, intrigue, and the magic of a sorcerer king who sees enemies at every turn.
The difference with our avenging squad of magically talented youths? The risk to the king is real.
The quest is simple: recover four gems, each with a unique property, and place them in a staff that will bring peace the land once again. The problem? Shiny things rarely stay in one place, especially when word of the gems unusual abilities gets out.
For fans of Rick Riordan and Robin McKinley, this series is a keeper. Appropriate for all ages, and an excellent message of honor, integrity, and the ability to remain loyal above a land gone mad.
In the land of Castiglias, things are not going well. Since the usurper Agryle took the throne, this land, once pleasant, is now fraught with danger, intrigue, and the magic of a sorcerer king who sees enemies at every turn.
The difference with our avenging squad of magically talented youths? The risk to the king is real.
The quest is simple: recover four gems, each with a unique property, and place them in a staff that will bring peace the land once again. The problem? Shiny things rarely stay in one place, especially when word of the gems unusual abilities gets out.
For fans of Rick Riordan and Robin McKinley, this series is a keeper. Appropriate for all ages, and an excellent message of honor, integrity, and the ability to remain loyal above a land gone mad.
March 8, 2015
An equally exciting sequel to Scepter with even more mythical creatures and adventures for the four children as they seek to overthrow wicked Argyle.
It’s neat to see relationships progressing and a never ending supply of giant toads, man eating werewolves and strange tree dwellers, all intent on destroying or at least derailing, this important quest. It’s been well researched and thought out and Scott Collins has a gift for storytelling. Real thought has been put into some of the aspects formerly annoying in other superheroes. When Aiden morphs into an animal, he takes great care over his clothes. I love those tiny touches and details. A really good teen novel, or something light hearted and gripping for an adult. Just don’t let the kids catch you at it!
It’s neat to see relationships progressing and a never ending supply of giant toads, man eating werewolves and strange tree dwellers, all intent on destroying or at least derailing, this important quest. It’s been well researched and thought out and Scott Collins has a gift for storytelling. Real thought has been put into some of the aspects formerly annoying in other superheroes. When Aiden morphs into an animal, he takes great care over his clothes. I love those tiny touches and details. A really good teen novel, or something light hearted and gripping for an adult. Just don’t let the kids catch you at it!
April 2, 2014
This is the second book in the series and the story continues to race along, packing in excitement and a refreshingly original fantasy world. Some of the old familiars are in there, such as werewolves, but without falling into the familiar stereotypes. The characters are interesting, well developed and easy to care about. Highly recommended and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
June 26, 2016
I enjoyed the first book in the series, but I was totally entertained with this one. I felt Scott Collins found his stride. His writing was better, he didn’t bog the reader down with all the daily mundane tasks, and there’s plenty of action to appease action junkies. So much so, I found myself holding my breath in a few places. Especially with the huge man-eating toad. YUCKO!! When attacked, toads emit a chemical that will induce frothing of the mouth. My cat eat a toad once and we thought he had rabies. LOL. So, what happened to Aidan was very believable.
In the first book, we were told about King Argyle, now we get to meet him. We get to see him in all his evilness. What I feel is missing is the WHY behind him. Why does he hate everyone and everything? What motivates him to be so vile? So, right now, he’s pretty much a one-dimensional character. Maybe these questions will be answered in the next book.
We’re also introduced to Fracik, leader of a pack of diegylis, who are half man, half werewolf, and totally ruthless. They were created by Argyle to do his dirty work. Fracik hates Argyle for taking his wife and child from him, and I can see somewhere down the road that he might be changing sides. I am curious to see how this part of the story develops.
This is a very fast-paced book, and when I hit the end, I was like, what, that’s the end? Of course, it leaves you on a cliff-hanger, like the first book. I can’t wait to start the 3rd one. I give it 5 dragons and highly recommend it for young adult readers and adults alike. BTW, I love the book covers, and they depict scenes from the story.
In the first book, we were told about King Argyle, now we get to meet him. We get to see him in all his evilness. What I feel is missing is the WHY behind him. Why does he hate everyone and everything? What motivates him to be so vile? So, right now, he’s pretty much a one-dimensional character. Maybe these questions will be answered in the next book.
We’re also introduced to Fracik, leader of a pack of diegylis, who are half man, half werewolf, and totally ruthless. They were created by Argyle to do his dirty work. Fracik hates Argyle for taking his wife and child from him, and I can see somewhere down the road that he might be changing sides. I am curious to see how this part of the story develops.
This is a very fast-paced book, and when I hit the end, I was like, what, that’s the end? Of course, it leaves you on a cliff-hanger, like the first book. I can’t wait to start the 3rd one. I give it 5 dragons and highly recommend it for young adult readers and adults alike. BTW, I love the book covers, and they depict scenes from the story.
April 18, 2016
In this, the second book of the series, brothers Daniel and Aidan with Olivia and Lilly continue to battle against evil King Argyle. Their mission is to find the jewels that make the scepter work that Queen Iris gave them.
The description of fantasy lands and characters are just as well done here as they were in the first book. The author has a talent to transport readers into the make-believe he's writing about. He also does a great job of blending some 'life-lessons' into the book. The importance of teamwork and looking out for each other are elements that young readers could learn from.
The only thing letting the book down was how the pace of the plot slowed as the children moved from place to place. Details of places they slept and how they tried to make fires seemed to get in the way of the story at times. Not a major thing, but it did interrupt the flow of the book for me.
This is a good clean read for early teens who are looking to escape into a different world for a while, and a good continuation of the series.
The description of fantasy lands and characters are just as well done here as they were in the first book. The author has a talent to transport readers into the make-believe he's writing about. He also does a great job of blending some 'life-lessons' into the book. The importance of teamwork and looking out for each other are elements that young readers could learn from.
The only thing letting the book down was how the pace of the plot slowed as the children moved from place to place. Details of places they slept and how they tried to make fires seemed to get in the way of the story at times. Not a major thing, but it did interrupt the flow of the book for me.
This is a good clean read for early teens who are looking to escape into a different world for a while, and a good continuation of the series.
January 12, 2017
The thing I like about Scott Collins writing is that it's very solid. He is able to create an intensity that only a master writer could achieve. I grew very attached to each of his characters and continued to marvel at their gifts as I did in the first of the series. I think Scott Collins has created a wonderful series and I look forward to reading the third.
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