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Matt Archer #2
Matt Archer: Blade's Edge
Book 2 in the Matt Archer series.
When Matt Archer was fourteen, he discovered monsters are real. As if that wasn’t enough to go on for a few decades, Matt also found out that he’d been chosen to hunt those monsters--with a sentient, supernatural knife. Now fifteen, Matt has spent the last year working with a clandestine military unit, trying to rid the world of monsters, demons and other vicious creatures, all while keeping it a secret from nearly everyone he knows back home in Billings.
Including his mom.
Add in a new girlfriend, family secrets, sibling drama and enough homework to sink an aircraft carrier, and Matt’s life has become more complicated than he ever imagined. Worse, the knife-spirit has developed some very definite opinions about Matt’s personal life and it interferes in his business whenever it wants. More and more, Matt’s coming to realize that sharing brain-space with a spirit kind of sucks.
When stories of decimated towns and hordes of zombies start pouring into the Pentagon from Afghanistan, Matt knows he’ll be called up soon. Between the new mission and the knife’s increasing control over his mind, Matt wonders if he’ll survive long enough to take his driver’s exam.
When Matt Archer was fourteen, he discovered monsters are real. As if that wasn’t enough to go on for a few decades, Matt also found out that he’d been chosen to hunt those monsters--with a sentient, supernatural knife. Now fifteen, Matt has spent the last year working with a clandestine military unit, trying to rid the world of monsters, demons and other vicious creatures, all while keeping it a secret from nearly everyone he knows back home in Billings.
Including his mom.
Add in a new girlfriend, family secrets, sibling drama and enough homework to sink an aircraft carrier, and Matt’s life has become more complicated than he ever imagined. Worse, the knife-spirit has developed some very definite opinions about Matt’s personal life and it interferes in his business whenever it wants. More and more, Matt’s coming to realize that sharing brain-space with a spirit kind of sucks.
When stories of decimated towns and hordes of zombies start pouring into the Pentagon from Afghanistan, Matt knows he’ll be called up soon. Between the new mission and the knife’s increasing control over his mind, Matt wonders if he’ll survive long enough to take his driver’s exam.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 27, 2012
7 people are currently reading
475 people want to read
About the author
Kendra C. Highley
27 books710 followersKendra C. Highley lives in north Texas with her husband and two children. She also serves as staff to four self-important and high-powered cats. This, according to the cats, is her most important job. She believes in everyday magic, extraordinary love stories, and the restorative powers of dark chocolate
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
January 8, 2013
(cross posted at Amazon)
Well, I stayed up all night again. Can't say I mind, though. :D
This is a fantastic read, and a wonderful continuation of the series!
Blade's Edge is the sequel to Matt Archer: Monster Hunter, in which Matt discovered that monsters are real and attacking humanity. In the first book, they kept mostly to individuals, so the public is still unaware of the threat. In Blade's Edge, the attacks have gotten bolder; the team is responding to rumors of zombies and entire villages disappearing overnight.
This book was a big step up from the first in terms of darkness, both in the monsters and the story. Matt goes through a lot in this book, some of it gut wrenching. And through it all, even while I was crying as I read, the tone of his sadness stayed understandable and sympathetic. Matt doesn't get emo. He's a soldier, and he has the strength of character to act like the man he's going to become. I would like to explain how this book is so much darker than the first, but to do so would be giving major spoilers.
Fortunately, there is also a more lighthearted side to the book. Among other things, Matt still has to pass his driver's test. This was actually one of my favorite scenes. :)
There's also a LOT of development where Matt's family is concerned, with multiple revelations. There's enough new information that I'm already really excited about book 3 just to find out what's going on there, not to mention the new monster developments!
There is a bit of language in this book, but Matt is getting older and it's realistic that he's not going to keep his vocabulary toddler-friendly when he's surrounded by soldiers.
The author's writing style flows beautifully, as ever. Grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary are all something I know I don't have to worry about here.
Well, I stayed up all night again. Can't say I mind, though. :D
This is a fantastic read, and a wonderful continuation of the series!
Blade's Edge is the sequel to Matt Archer: Monster Hunter, in which Matt discovered that monsters are real and attacking humanity. In the first book, they kept mostly to individuals, so the public is still unaware of the threat. In Blade's Edge, the attacks have gotten bolder; the team is responding to rumors of zombies and entire villages disappearing overnight.
This book was a big step up from the first in terms of darkness, both in the monsters and the story. Matt goes through a lot in this book, some of it gut wrenching. And through it all, even while I was crying as I read, the tone of his sadness stayed understandable and sympathetic. Matt doesn't get emo. He's a soldier, and he has the strength of character to act like the man he's going to become. I would like to explain how this book is so much darker than the first, but to do so would be giving major spoilers.
Fortunately, there is also a more lighthearted side to the book. Among other things, Matt still has to pass his driver's test. This was actually one of my favorite scenes. :)
There's also a LOT of development where Matt's family is concerned, with multiple revelations. There's enough new information that I'm already really excited about book 3 just to find out what's going on there, not to mention the new monster developments!
There is a bit of language in this book, but Matt is getting older and it's realistic that he's not going to keep his vocabulary toddler-friendly when he's surrounded by soldiers.
The author's writing style flows beautifully, as ever. Grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary are all something I know I don't have to worry about here.
December 21, 2012
Blade's Edge is an exciting continuation of the Matt Archer series. Kendra Highley did not fall victim to the sophomore funk. She has written an emotional and power story about Matt's horrific journey to rid the world of monsters.
Matt is now 16 years old; however, he is having to grow up much too fast. Ms. Highley has written such a great character in Matt Archer. She is slowly developing him. With every page, I’m getting more and more attached to him. He is a sixteen year old kid who has to make life and death decisions. The question is…can he? He is forced into a war that should be only for grown men and women. Matt should be a normal kid enjoying his life. His struggle with his duty is heartbreaking. Ms. Highley really captured Matt’s struggle and always reminding the reader that he is only sixteen years old.
Strong family values continue into the second book. Matt’s family give him a strong anchor that he desperately needs. His mom is a strong, loving character who loves her son and wants to protect him. One of my favorite scenes from the book is between Matt and his mom. It doesn’t matter that Matt is member of a top secret military group; he’s still a boy who needs his mom. It is a very touching scene.
Blade’s Edge is darker than the first book. For the first time, Matt has to deal with death that hits close to home. It breaks your heart that he has to struggle with blame and guilt. Ms. Highley just flat out made me cry! And I don’t do that very often.
As you can see, I’ve gotten very attached to Matt Archer. To me this is an emotional journey of a young boy who is quickly becoming a man. The monster-killing is secondary. However, I really want to know who is behind the monster invasion. I can’t wait for book #3!
Matt is now 16 years old; however, he is having to grow up much too fast. Ms. Highley has written such a great character in Matt Archer. She is slowly developing him. With every page, I’m getting more and more attached to him. He is a sixteen year old kid who has to make life and death decisions. The question is…can he? He is forced into a war that should be only for grown men and women. Matt should be a normal kid enjoying his life. His struggle with his duty is heartbreaking. Ms. Highley really captured Matt’s struggle and always reminding the reader that he is only sixteen years old.
Strong family values continue into the second book. Matt’s family give him a strong anchor that he desperately needs. His mom is a strong, loving character who loves her son and wants to protect him. One of my favorite scenes from the book is between Matt and his mom. It doesn’t matter that Matt is member of a top secret military group; he’s still a boy who needs his mom. It is a very touching scene.
Blade’s Edge is darker than the first book. For the first time, Matt has to deal with death that hits close to home. It breaks your heart that he has to struggle with blame and guilt. Ms. Highley just flat out made me cry! And I don’t do that very often.
As you can see, I’ve gotten very attached to Matt Archer. To me this is an emotional journey of a young boy who is quickly becoming a man. The monster-killing is secondary. However, I really want to know who is behind the monster invasion. I can’t wait for book #3!
March 24, 2013
First I have to say that I loved the first book in this series so I was excited to get the second one. Kendra has developed such an awesome character in Matt and telling his story. In book one Matt learns what he is and what he is expected to do and at first he had a hard time but by the end of the book he was fighting monsters and trying to go to school and live a normal or as close to normal life as he could.
In Blade's Edge Matt and his blade are getting into some serious stuff. Matt has only been a monster hunter for a year but boy oh boy what he went through and what he saw has made him stronger as a person. For a whole year he has been fighting monsters and learning to live with his new found world. His family and friends have no idea what he has gone through and that is the way he wants to keep it. Matt has a new girlfriend and is trying to enjoy school but family secrets will be uncovered and will set some things in motion. If that could not be worse he has sibling issues and way to much homework. Who has time for homework when your fighting monsters?
Then Matt hears towns are being torn up and there has been zombie sightings. Soon he is jumping out of military helicopters and fighting these evil monsters. He is fighting alongside some awesome people trying to save the world from these nasty monsters. Matt is also fighting with his spirit because it is getting a lot stronger. If that wasn't the worse thing Matt is wondering when he will get his drivers license. Hahaha that is the least of his worries for now because if he does not defeat the monsters there will be no cars to drive!
In Blade's Edge Matt and his blade are getting into some serious stuff. Matt has only been a monster hunter for a year but boy oh boy what he went through and what he saw has made him stronger as a person. For a whole year he has been fighting monsters and learning to live with his new found world. His family and friends have no idea what he has gone through and that is the way he wants to keep it. Matt has a new girlfriend and is trying to enjoy school but family secrets will be uncovered and will set some things in motion. If that could not be worse he has sibling issues and way to much homework. Who has time for homework when your fighting monsters?
Then Matt hears towns are being torn up and there has been zombie sightings. Soon he is jumping out of military helicopters and fighting these evil monsters. He is fighting alongside some awesome people trying to save the world from these nasty monsters. Matt is also fighting with his spirit because it is getting a lot stronger. If that wasn't the worse thing Matt is wondering when he will get his drivers license. Hahaha that is the least of his worries for now because if he does not defeat the monsters there will be no cars to drive!
April 18, 2013
This book caused me to procrastinate work throughout the week and stay up late a couple of nights to finish it. The whirlwind story takes the reader back and forth from Montana to Central Asia to D.C. -- I'm pretty sure I have jetlag now as a result! The action is fast-paced and the story involving. But more than just the pacing of it, I love the characters that the author has created, love their personalities and dialog, and love her use of words and imagery in describing the setting and action. The details of the military setting are well-researched and allow you to become fully absorbed in what Matt and the others are experiencing. As other reviewers have said, the language and situations are more mature than the first book, so keep that in mind with your younger YA readers -- they'll need to grow into this one. Can't wait for the next one to come out!
February 27, 2013
I really loved the first Matt Archer book, so I was a little nervous to pick up the next book for fear that Matt wouldn't live up to my expectations. But I didn't have to worry, because this book was just awesome. It really delves deeper into Matt's relationships with his family and friends, and made the tension and stakes higher than ever. The way that the monster plot develops is fascinating as well - I couldn't wait to see what kind of villians were going to pop out next. This book starts to make you feel like no one is safe, and I found my palms sweating as Matt got himself into some dangerous situations. At the end I wondered how I am going to last until Kendra Highley publishes the next book in the series!
March 6, 2017
So sad for all the deaths that happen in this book, and a lot of things happen, like Tink needing to use the $2800 screen instead of a paper map to pinpoint the location of the bad guy's lair!
*Second Read June 4th 2013*
What a great book, loved rereading it, and I wonder what's going to happen in Legend, beyond Matt going back to school, which has a reason, according to Kendra C. Highley. And we got his first name, it's PLL's (TV show version) Spencer's boyfriend's name, well, the full length, like Jim and James, Will and William.
*First Read January 17th 2013*
Great book, things really developed with his knife, and yeah, can't wait for book 3 and then 4!!!
*Second Read June 4th 2013*
What a great book, loved rereading it, and I wonder what's going to happen in Legend, beyond Matt going back to school, which has a reason, according to Kendra C. Highley. And we got his first name, it's PLL's (TV show version) Spencer's boyfriend's name, well, the full length, like Jim and James, Will and William.
*First Read January 17th 2013*
Great book, things really developed with his knife, and yeah, can't wait for book 3 and then 4!!!
March 17, 2016
You can read this review and more on my blog:
I received a free copy of this book from the author via Reading Addiction Virtual Blog Tours in exchange for an honest review.
Although the second instalment in this series was more serious than the first, it was just as good. It had a slightly darker overall tone because Matt is growing up and feeling the weight of his destiny as a monster hunter. The fact that he is responsible for so many lives is causing him to experience a lot of inner turmoil, and he is questioning whether or not he can handle everything that has been thrown at him
. Despite the super natural growth spurt that took place in the first novel, Matt is still just a sixteen year old kid. He, gets scared, sad, and lonely, and he just wants to be able to spend a few hours making out with his girlfriend without any interruptions. But because his after school job involves less order taking and more demon slaying than the average teen age boy, he doesn't have the luxury of just quitting or taking a break when he gets overwhelmed.
Matt is really the only character that develops in this book. His girlfriend, Ella was around a little more, but She still feels like a prop rather than a main or even secondary character. She is there to make Matt seem more human, but I don't really care about her one way or another yet. Matt's partner in crime, Will was absent a lot, and I missed their effortless friendship and banter. He does makes some appearances throughout the book so I didn't suffer from Will withdrawals too much, but I definitely want more Matt and Will scenes in the next book. My favorite female character, Mammie, had a few cute scenes with Matt at the start of the book, but she really took a backseat this time around too. Matt does have to deal with some jealousy from his brother Brent. Brent isn't dealing very well with the fact that his little brother was chosen to be a wielder and not him. And there were some very cute scenes with Uncle Mike and "Bad Ass Aunt Julie" (Matt's words not mine), but this book was mostly about Matt and how he is dealing with being under so much pressure at such a young age.
Matt has some very serious choices to make, not the least of which is how much of himself and his life is he willing to sacrifice for the greater good. Most sixteen year olds have the luxury of being able to screw up every now and then, but not Matt. He makes life and death decisions everyday, and there are lives at stake. Lucky for everyone he is an extraordinary sixteen year old, and he takes his calling seriously. But he is still human so mistakes are inevitable, and he has to learn how to deal with his mistakes, move on, and continue to fight.
There was one character that I did get to know better besides Matt, and that was his knife spirit. I am not going to give anything away, but I will tell you that Matt's knife spirit is a handful and Matt has to constantly battle with the spirit over who will have control of his body, actions, and even the way he spends his free time or should I say who he spends his free time with. A very cute and interesting bond develops between Matt and his Knife, and it is going to be fun reading about their adventures in the future.
This book managed to continued to wow me when it came to the action scenes. I was worried that the author couldn't find that magic formula that she did the first time around, and give me the right mixture of heart pounding action and heart warming moments, but she didn't disappoint. This book felt familiar and fresh at the same time. Matt was more confident in his skills when it came to hunting, but the same awkward, sweet young boy that I met in the first book would show up every now and then and make me smile. If you liked the first book in this series, then you will not be with the second. if you didn't like the first book, then--What are you crazy?! Oh--wait, I mean this book isn't for you at all. ;)
Because of violence and language, I would recommend this book for ages 13 and up.
I received a free copy of this book from the author via Reading Addiction Virtual Blog Tours in exchange for an honest review.
Although the second instalment in this series was more serious than the first, it was just as good. It had a slightly darker overall tone because Matt is growing up and feeling the weight of his destiny as a monster hunter. The fact that he is responsible for so many lives is causing him to experience a lot of inner turmoil, and he is questioning whether or not he can handle everything that has been thrown at him
. Despite the super natural growth spurt that took place in the first novel, Matt is still just a sixteen year old kid. He, gets scared, sad, and lonely, and he just wants to be able to spend a few hours making out with his girlfriend without any interruptions. But because his after school job involves less order taking and more demon slaying than the average teen age boy, he doesn't have the luxury of just quitting or taking a break when he gets overwhelmed.
Matt is really the only character that develops in this book. His girlfriend, Ella was around a little more, but She still feels like a prop rather than a main or even secondary character. She is there to make Matt seem more human, but I don't really care about her one way or another yet. Matt's partner in crime, Will was absent a lot, and I missed their effortless friendship and banter. He does makes some appearances throughout the book so I didn't suffer from Will withdrawals too much, but I definitely want more Matt and Will scenes in the next book. My favorite female character, Mammie, had a few cute scenes with Matt at the start of the book, but she really took a backseat this time around too. Matt does have to deal with some jealousy from his brother Brent. Brent isn't dealing very well with the fact that his little brother was chosen to be a wielder and not him. And there were some very cute scenes with Uncle Mike and "Bad Ass Aunt Julie" (Matt's words not mine), but this book was mostly about Matt and how he is dealing with being under so much pressure at such a young age.
Matt has some very serious choices to make, not the least of which is how much of himself and his life is he willing to sacrifice for the greater good. Most sixteen year olds have the luxury of being able to screw up every now and then, but not Matt. He makes life and death decisions everyday, and there are lives at stake. Lucky for everyone he is an extraordinary sixteen year old, and he takes his calling seriously. But he is still human so mistakes are inevitable, and he has to learn how to deal with his mistakes, move on, and continue to fight.
There was one character that I did get to know better besides Matt, and that was his knife spirit. I am not going to give anything away, but I will tell you that Matt's knife spirit is a handful and Matt has to constantly battle with the spirit over who will have control of his body, actions, and even the way he spends his free time or should I say who he spends his free time with. A very cute and interesting bond develops between Matt and his Knife, and it is going to be fun reading about their adventures in the future.
This book managed to continued to wow me when it came to the action scenes. I was worried that the author couldn't find that magic formula that she did the first time around, and give me the right mixture of heart pounding action and heart warming moments, but she didn't disappoint. This book felt familiar and fresh at the same time. Matt was more confident in his skills when it came to hunting, but the same awkward, sweet young boy that I met in the first book would show up every now and then and make me smile. If you liked the first book in this series, then you will not be with the second. if you didn't like the first book, then--What are you crazy?! Oh--wait, I mean this book isn't for you at all. ;)
Because of violence and language, I would recommend this book for ages 13 and up.
April 4, 2013
Did I enjoy this book: I really enjoyed this book. I read it every free chance I had. I would have to say that I liked this book as much as the first book in the series, Matt Archer: Monster Hunter, and maybe even a little bit more. (See my review here.)
Matt is now fifteen and still working with the Green Berets to help rid the world of these monsters that seem to be becoming more intelligent with each incarnation. The knife is also becoming more demanding of Matt, who has a deeper connection to his knife and all of the knife spirits than his four knife-wielder counterparts. Matt has grown a lot in this book. He is becoming more of a man and not so much a boy anymore. And, like Toby and the rest of the guys, I am beginning to see him as a man and not a kid.
I love the action in this book. I was on the edge of my seat quite a bit. I believe I gasped out loud a few times and I really felt for Matt and the other men fighting to keep Matt safe as well as the world. There were also moments that made me chuckle (the knife spirit's reaction to the girlfriend) and laugh out loud (the driver's test) The best part, I was in the action. I was there with Matt and the rest of the soldiers. I was a part of this story, not just a spectator.
The additional characters were very well-written and well-developed. Matt's brother Brent makes a few appearances, and in those few appearances, we get to know him a bit more. I feel kind of bad for him, that his little brother is chosen as a knife-wielder and not him. Mamie is still there, still trying to help Matt as much as she can, and still putting fear into the minds of some top military officials. Matt's girlfriend is a nice addition, but I'm curious as to where that is going. Will is still a part of some of the missions and he is a great help and comfort back home. I like Will. He is a great sidekick/best friend. The adults are also great characters. Of course, we have Uncle Mike, Aunt Julie, and the military officers...all great. Matt's mom is in this book a bit more. The revelations that come out were surprising as was his mother's reactions to the news and what is going on.
One thing that really struck me while reading Matt Archer: Blade's Edge was how real the emotions were. Matt has to deal with some heavy stuff. Yes, this is a fantasy/action book for young adults/middle grade kids. But some of the situations that Matt found himself in were as real as real can be and do happen to those fighting in the military. And, no, it does not happen in the same way...with monsters and zombies...but it does happen. Matt's reactions and emotions were very real. You could see how much he struggled. He is fifteen years old but he is mature beyond his years in most respects. How he transitioned back to civilian life between missions was also real to me. I cannot imagine how hard that would be. And I hate to keep saying it the same way, that it was real. But that is the best way to describe these parts of this wonderful book.
I want to talk about everything I loved about this book in so much more detail but that would give away too much! All I can say is this is a great read and a great second book in a series!
Would I recommend it: I would recommend it. This was a great read and a great continuation of a story. I hope there is more from Ms. Highley about Matt Archer.
Will I read it again: I will not...unless I read it with my kids when they are a bit older.
(I received a copy of this book for review purposes.)
http://everyfreechancebookreviews.blo...
Matt is now fifteen and still working with the Green Berets to help rid the world of these monsters that seem to be becoming more intelligent with each incarnation. The knife is also becoming more demanding of Matt, who has a deeper connection to his knife and all of the knife spirits than his four knife-wielder counterparts. Matt has grown a lot in this book. He is becoming more of a man and not so much a boy anymore. And, like Toby and the rest of the guys, I am beginning to see him as a man and not a kid.
I love the action in this book. I was on the edge of my seat quite a bit. I believe I gasped out loud a few times and I really felt for Matt and the other men fighting to keep Matt safe as well as the world. There were also moments that made me chuckle (the knife spirit's reaction to the girlfriend) and laugh out loud (the driver's test) The best part, I was in the action. I was there with Matt and the rest of the soldiers. I was a part of this story, not just a spectator.
The additional characters were very well-written and well-developed. Matt's brother Brent makes a few appearances, and in those few appearances, we get to know him a bit more. I feel kind of bad for him, that his little brother is chosen as a knife-wielder and not him. Mamie is still there, still trying to help Matt as much as she can, and still putting fear into the minds of some top military officials. Matt's girlfriend is a nice addition, but I'm curious as to where that is going. Will is still a part of some of the missions and he is a great help and comfort back home. I like Will. He is a great sidekick/best friend. The adults are also great characters. Of course, we have Uncle Mike, Aunt Julie, and the military officers...all great. Matt's mom is in this book a bit more. The revelations that come out were surprising as was his mother's reactions to the news and what is going on.
One thing that really struck me while reading Matt Archer: Blade's Edge was how real the emotions were. Matt has to deal with some heavy stuff. Yes, this is a fantasy/action book for young adults/middle grade kids. But some of the situations that Matt found himself in were as real as real can be and do happen to those fighting in the military. And, no, it does not happen in the same way...with monsters and zombies...but it does happen. Matt's reactions and emotions were very real. You could see how much he struggled. He is fifteen years old but he is mature beyond his years in most respects. How he transitioned back to civilian life between missions was also real to me. I cannot imagine how hard that would be. And I hate to keep saying it the same way, that it was real. But that is the best way to describe these parts of this wonderful book.
I want to talk about everything I loved about this book in so much more detail but that would give away too much! All I can say is this is a great read and a great second book in a series!
Would I recommend it: I would recommend it. This was a great read and a great continuation of a story. I hope there is more from Ms. Highley about Matt Archer.
Will I read it again: I will not...unless I read it with my kids when they are a bit older.
(I received a copy of this book for review purposes.)
http://everyfreechancebookreviews.blo...
July 19, 2016
Check out my blog post to read the first chapter. Just click the cover below to go to the post directly. At that post is links to the other books, including book 4 with a giveaway.
This series just gets better with each book, just like I mentioned in other reviews, its my new Harry Potter. Not a wizard here, but a spirit knife wielder, who fights off the monsters (demons is my guess) and the evil who is unleashing the baddies on the world.
I was hooked right away on the series, but each book also draws me in, and keeps me turning the pages. The first chapter will do that.
In Blade’s Edge the stakes are higher than ever. We lose some great people, and the characters are tested in ways that will shock you. The monsters have gotten smarter, sneakier and are harder to take care of. They think and work together now.
The writing as usual is top notch and the dialogue flows really smooth. Kendra is a great story teller. I love the funny parts too, it makes it all come together really smooth.
Matt is having to grow up so fast too, he is 16 in this one, but his accelerated growth makes him appear to be 25, big at over 6’3 I think.
I like how Kendra is slowly developing Matt though, even though all he has been through is maturing him much faster. The 16 year old is still there underneath the big mature exterior. I have grown really attached to Matt. He is a great kid, a good one to be telling the story.
So overall a great continuation, to this amazing paranormal story. I loved it.
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars just like all the books deserve.
I received this book from the author for my honest review.
Make sure to pick up the other books in this series.
This series just gets better with each book, just like I mentioned in other reviews, its my new Harry Potter. Not a wizard here, but a spirit knife wielder, who fights off the monsters (demons is my guess) and the evil who is unleashing the baddies on the world.
I was hooked right away on the series, but each book also draws me in, and keeps me turning the pages. The first chapter will do that.
In Blade’s Edge the stakes are higher than ever. We lose some great people, and the characters are tested in ways that will shock you. The monsters have gotten smarter, sneakier and are harder to take care of. They think and work together now.
The writing as usual is top notch and the dialogue flows really smooth. Kendra is a great story teller. I love the funny parts too, it makes it all come together really smooth.
Matt is having to grow up so fast too, he is 16 in this one, but his accelerated growth makes him appear to be 25, big at over 6’3 I think.
I like how Kendra is slowly developing Matt though, even though all he has been through is maturing him much faster. The 16 year old is still there underneath the big mature exterior. I have grown really attached to Matt. He is a great kid, a good one to be telling the story.
So overall a great continuation, to this amazing paranormal story. I loved it.
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars just like all the books deserve.
I received this book from the author for my honest review.
Make sure to pick up the other books in this series.
March 11, 2014
*I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
Matt is a recognised part of the Green Beret team now and has the girl of his dreams, Ella waiting for him when he returns from his monster hunting missions. He also has a new aunt-Badass Aunt Julie as Matt calls her, and he is getting more in tune with his knife. But of course when you add in new countries, strange new creatures and an evil danger, Matt is in more danger than he thought possible.
One of the things I love about this series is the change of locations and new monsters. This book starts with a scary parachute jump into the Himalayas to take on Kali Cult Witches, followed by zombie locals and winged monsters in Afghanistan. Each new threat is scarier and harder to kill than the last which means bigger challenges for our hero. I particularly like when the commanding officers ask Matt how he feels about zombies and he answers 'Braaiinnss!' It was what anyone aged 15 would do in that situation and it's probably what I would do as well, so I found that particularly amusing! I can imagine the blank looks on those military faces when Matt does his zombie impersonation. These guys need to watch more films...
The interesting addition to this book is the big family secrets coming out. Matt's family discover his secret army life causing a huge fight at home. His brother is angry and jealous that Matt was chosen by the knife instead of him and his mother blurts out that she doesn't want her son following his dad. So Matt's dad is CIA and not the deadbeat that we thought he was. This was interesting because I was expecting him to pop up at some point during this book now that we know why he left his family. And we have the added drama of Julie's premature birth to baby Kate which leaves us on the edge of our seats, along with Matt's complicated love life.
Plot wise, the team that we know and love are facing serious danger in Afghanistan, starting with Ramirez who is kidnapped by the winged creatures who want his blade. These creatures are also snatching civilians and turning them into zombies. Then we have demon scorpions just to add to the danger. This book as always, is action packed with lots of exciting fights and battles and a lot of emotionally charged incidents.
I'm not sure I'm going to forgive the author for two things that she did in this book, and I'm NOT talking about Kate! I refuse to divulge any details but you'll know what I'm talking about when you get to it. Drama, tension, action and fear are all on the menu in this offering. This author has a great way of adding a bit of everything that readers like yet making it blend into a compelling story that you don't want to stop reading. Excellent paranormal action adventure!
Matt is a recognised part of the Green Beret team now and has the girl of his dreams, Ella waiting for him when he returns from his monster hunting missions. He also has a new aunt-Badass Aunt Julie as Matt calls her, and he is getting more in tune with his knife. But of course when you add in new countries, strange new creatures and an evil danger, Matt is in more danger than he thought possible.
One of the things I love about this series is the change of locations and new monsters. This book starts with a scary parachute jump into the Himalayas to take on Kali Cult Witches, followed by zombie locals and winged monsters in Afghanistan. Each new threat is scarier and harder to kill than the last which means bigger challenges for our hero. I particularly like when the commanding officers ask Matt how he feels about zombies and he answers 'Braaiinnss!' It was what anyone aged 15 would do in that situation and it's probably what I would do as well, so I found that particularly amusing! I can imagine the blank looks on those military faces when Matt does his zombie impersonation. These guys need to watch more films...
The interesting addition to this book is the big family secrets coming out. Matt's family discover his secret army life causing a huge fight at home. His brother is angry and jealous that Matt was chosen by the knife instead of him and his mother blurts out that she doesn't want her son following his dad. So Matt's dad is CIA and not the deadbeat that we thought he was. This was interesting because I was expecting him to pop up at some point during this book now that we know why he left his family. And we have the added drama of Julie's premature birth to baby Kate which leaves us on the edge of our seats, along with Matt's complicated love life.
Plot wise, the team that we know and love are facing serious danger in Afghanistan, starting with Ramirez who is kidnapped by the winged creatures who want his blade. These creatures are also snatching civilians and turning them into zombies. Then we have demon scorpions just to add to the danger. This book as always, is action packed with lots of exciting fights and battles and a lot of emotionally charged incidents.
I'm not sure I'm going to forgive the author for two things that she did in this book, and I'm NOT talking about Kate! I refuse to divulge any details but you'll know what I'm talking about when you get to it. Drama, tension, action and fear are all on the menu in this offering. This author has a great way of adding a bit of everything that readers like yet making it blend into a compelling story that you don't want to stop reading. Excellent paranormal action adventure!
August 8, 2014
10 AWESOME ACTION STARS!!!
I received a review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
GROWING UP. --> These are two words that would best describe this sequel.
Matt has definitely grown up. In this book, Matt has physically grown (LOTS). I would also say that he has grown up emotionally. This is because he isn't thinking just about himself anymore. Now he's also thinking of other people. People who have become his responsibility albeit unintentionally. I like how the author showed Matt's teenage mind. You'd see that he's kinda caught in between adulthood and young adulthood. So many responsibilities rest on an almost 16 year old. He can only handle so much. I would say that he handled stress very well though. He's not your typical teen who panics and all that.
MATT AND HIS LOVE LIFE
I saw that coming. I really did. I think he doesn't need ANY DISTRACTIONS either. LOL. Plus, remember when super heroes gets the girl... IN THE END? This isn't the end yet. This is just the beginning so... love just has to wait. Sorry, Matt (not sorry at all hah!).
MATT AND THE FAMILY
I just love his mom's support. That's all I can say without giving away much. Mamie is still always there and by far one of the best sisters in my fiction land. Brent... ugh... jealousy is so unbecoming. I wanted to pull him out of the book and punch him myself when he least suspects it!
MATT AND THE TEAM
I think they rely on Matt more now. They are aware that he's needed in their mission and they respect him for that even if he's just a little (err.. not so little anymore) kid. His uncle is also finding out piece per piece that his nephew is growing up to be a strong hearted young man. Will, on the other hand, has issues of his own. How I wish that he could also just continue to be on Matt's side. I dread the day wherein the author would kill Matt's uncle or Matt's bestfriend. T______T
THE ACTION
I CANNOT ASK FOR MORE. It's there. IT'S TOTALLY THERE! Action packed and very, very, very thrilling! Zombies, big insects, demon like creatures! Whew! The author could really come up with badass creatures. O_O
THE TWIST
I... am totally speechless. If you read this book, I'm sure you are too. The plot just gets thicker and thicker. I am a firm believer of this author because of the surprises that her books have. I'm only in the second book and I'm already hooked. I can just imagine myself getting to the bottom of this series. I think I am going to have one hell of a series hangover.
ALL IN ALL..
AWESOME, EMOTIONAL, EYE OPENING BOOK! I recommend this book to everyone!
I received a review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
GROWING UP. --> These are two words that would best describe this sequel.
Matt has definitely grown up. In this book, Matt has physically grown (LOTS). I would also say that he has grown up emotionally. This is because he isn't thinking just about himself anymore. Now he's also thinking of other people. People who have become his responsibility albeit unintentionally. I like how the author showed Matt's teenage mind. You'd see that he's kinda caught in between adulthood and young adulthood. So many responsibilities rest on an almost 16 year old. He can only handle so much. I would say that he handled stress very well though. He's not your typical teen who panics and all that.
MATT AND HIS LOVE LIFE
I saw that coming. I really did. I think he doesn't need ANY DISTRACTIONS either. LOL. Plus, remember when super heroes gets the girl... IN THE END? This isn't the end yet. This is just the beginning so... love just has to wait. Sorry, Matt (not sorry at all hah!).
MATT AND THE FAMILY
I just love his mom's support. That's all I can say without giving away much. Mamie is still always there and by far one of the best sisters in my fiction land. Brent... ugh... jealousy is so unbecoming. I wanted to pull him out of the book and punch him myself when he least suspects it!
MATT AND THE TEAM
I think they rely on Matt more now. They are aware that he's needed in their mission and they respect him for that even if he's just a little (err.. not so little anymore) kid. His uncle is also finding out piece per piece that his nephew is growing up to be a strong hearted young man. Will, on the other hand, has issues of his own. How I wish that he could also just continue to be on Matt's side. I dread the day wherein the author would kill Matt's uncle or Matt's bestfriend. T______T
THE ACTION
I CANNOT ASK FOR MORE. It's there. IT'S TOTALLY THERE! Action packed and very, very, very thrilling! Zombies, big insects, demon like creatures! Whew! The author could really come up with badass creatures. O_O
THE TWIST
I... am totally speechless. If you read this book, I'm sure you are too. The plot just gets thicker and thicker. I am a firm believer of this author because of the surprises that her books have. I'm only in the second book and I'm already hooked. I can just imagine myself getting to the bottom of this series. I think I am going to have one hell of a series hangover.
ALL IN ALL..
AWESOME, EMOTIONAL, EYE OPENING BOOK! I recommend this book to everyone!
January 29, 2013
Genre: YA Urban Fantasy
Publisher Type: Indie
My Review:
I love, love, love the Matt Archer series and was super excited when I got a chance to read book two. I was worried it would be just more of the same and that I'd be disappointed...... boy was I wrong! Kendra Highley took this book to a whole new level of wowness!!! Sure, there's more crazy action, more teen-boy-madness, and more even-meaner monsters, but at the same time it's a completely new adventure.
MA2 begins and next we know Matt is parachuting out of a military airplane! I love how the whole special ops, military details are handled. There's enough detail to be interesting and to create a complete picture without doing an information overload on a civilian gal such as myself. It's just so freakin' exciting!
I also really appreciate how fully developed the adult characters are, especially Matt's mom. I find many YA books do a disservice to us parent-types, leaving us to be clueless, whiny obstacles. I love how Mrs. Archer's written.
When I reviewed MA1, I said it'd be appropriate for older middle graders and up. In MA2 we see more darkness creeping into the world and Matt deals with more mature issues. The suspense is ratcheted up and I found myself holding my breath and (yes, I'm such a girl) crying over Matt's loses.
Overall, my only complaint is that MA3 is written yet. I love Matt and I want more!!! Now.
Publisher Type: Indie
My Review:
I love, love, love the Matt Archer series and was super excited when I got a chance to read book two. I was worried it would be just more of the same and that I'd be disappointed...... boy was I wrong! Kendra Highley took this book to a whole new level of wowness!!! Sure, there's more crazy action, more teen-boy-madness, and more even-meaner monsters, but at the same time it's a completely new adventure.
MA2 begins and next we know Matt is parachuting out of a military airplane! I love how the whole special ops, military details are handled. There's enough detail to be interesting and to create a complete picture without doing an information overload on a civilian gal such as myself. It's just so freakin' exciting!
I also really appreciate how fully developed the adult characters are, especially Matt's mom. I find many YA books do a disservice to us parent-types, leaving us to be clueless, whiny obstacles. I love how Mrs. Archer's written.
When I reviewed MA1, I said it'd be appropriate for older middle graders and up. In MA2 we see more darkness creeping into the world and Matt deals with more mature issues. The suspense is ratcheted up and I found myself holding my breath and (yes, I'm such a girl) crying over Matt's loses.
Overall, my only complaint is that MA3 is written yet. I love Matt and I want more!!! Now.
June 13, 2014
blade's edge book 2 in the matt archer series builds on the first novel whilst upping the ante on emotions.
from the start with matt's almost fatal parachute failure over the himalayas and being possessed by his knife's spirit while fighting kali-demons, to finding out he will have to go to afghanistan to fight zombie's, a demon scorpion, and flying demons with the prospect of something far bigger and a lot more dangerous lurking in the background.
on top of everything else matt has to deal with problems at home as his mother discovers the truth about his involvement with the military after she accidently see's him when he was a spotted on camera in a CNN report about soldiers fighting overseas,
and the truth about his not-so deadbeat dad.
matt also has to learn to deal with unfamiliar emotions on & off mission with the loss of someone on his team, the funeral at arlingtion, and then bad-ass aunt julie's premature birth to baby kate who has to spend the first days of her life fighting to survive.
and like all that wasn't enough he also has to deal with the knife spirits interference in his relationship with ella.
blade's edge expands the series further than the last book by expanding the world, and introducing new monsters and emotions to matts life, but as always there remains a great sense of humour in the book as well.
it was a truly great read, that deserves a bigger fan base.
i can't recommend this series highley enough.
from the start with matt's almost fatal parachute failure over the himalayas and being possessed by his knife's spirit while fighting kali-demons, to finding out he will have to go to afghanistan to fight zombie's, a demon scorpion, and flying demons with the prospect of something far bigger and a lot more dangerous lurking in the background.
on top of everything else matt has to deal with problems at home as his mother discovers the truth about his involvement with the military after she accidently see's him when he was a spotted on camera in a CNN report about soldiers fighting overseas,
and the truth about his not-so deadbeat dad.
matt also has to learn to deal with unfamiliar emotions on & off mission with the loss of someone on his team, the funeral at arlingtion, and then bad-ass aunt julie's premature birth to baby kate who has to spend the first days of her life fighting to survive.
and like all that wasn't enough he also has to deal with the knife spirits interference in his relationship with ella.
blade's edge expands the series further than the last book by expanding the world, and introducing new monsters and emotions to matts life, but as always there remains a great sense of humour in the book as well.
it was a truly great read, that deserves a bigger fan base.
i can't recommend this series highley enough.
August 12, 2014
A year into being a monster hunter and Matt still has many things to adjust to and learn. The knife is talking to him and trying to take more control. He now has a girlfriend and ella is what helps to ground him. His brother is jealous of him and his sister is protective. Mamie is a force to reckon with all herself. she has everyone fearing her and this helps Matt. matt is still trying to get the guys to accept him and gain his Uncle's respect.
Matt is trying to make it through school and deal with becoming a teenager while the guys razz him about. He has become a stronger hunter. a stronger person. He has more confidence in his skills but questions himself as to why him, why is he in school, why is ella with him, and even how will he get his spirit knife and himself to gel and work together without losing himself. Afghanistan is dangerous and has Matt seeing for himself what his life has really become. He realizes what his dreams mean, what can happen and what is at stake.
Matt is placed in situations that have him grow as a person, a hunter and helps him become stronger. A stronger hunter, person, friend, brother and nephew. He gains trust from his company of guys but all of this does take a toll on Matt. matt is a hunter but feels guilt with each death and it shows in him as it weighs on his personality.
A great sequel that has you on the edge of your seat as you watch matt grow in so man ways.
Matt is trying to make it through school and deal with becoming a teenager while the guys razz him about. He has become a stronger hunter. a stronger person. He has more confidence in his skills but questions himself as to why him, why is he in school, why is ella with him, and even how will he get his spirit knife and himself to gel and work together without losing himself. Afghanistan is dangerous and has Matt seeing for himself what his life has really become. He realizes what his dreams mean, what can happen and what is at stake.
Matt is placed in situations that have him grow as a person, a hunter and helps him become stronger. A stronger hunter, person, friend, brother and nephew. He gains trust from his company of guys but all of this does take a toll on Matt. matt is a hunter but feels guilt with each death and it shows in him as it weighs on his personality.
A great sequel that has you on the edge of your seat as you watch matt grow in so man ways.
January 3, 2013
Ok, I loved the first. It’s rare when you like the second book better but this really showed Matt’s growth. That boy has some anger issues but I loved every intense moment of it. And there were quite a few! It really felt like he went from boy to man in this sequel.
My favorite parts were surprisingly the fights. I don’t normally go for books with a lot of fighting but you can see Matt really changing and pushing himself in every way during each battle. Well, they were some of my favorite parts. My FAV part was the actual driver’s exam. It’s so funny that Matt goes through all of this fighting with monsters and has to take his driver’s exam still. It reminded me that he really is just a normal, although very interesting kid. Well, young man. But that driver’s test was the funniest thing ever!~
Kendra really has a way of making this series really good. This one is a lot darker. His blade is doing all kinds of weird stuff and it starts affecting him big time. You can tell it’s getting darker and watching Matt grow and nearly get killed put me on the edge of my seat multiple times! But there’s more to it than just that. I actually had tears in my eyes a couple times. When I say intense, I mean it! This has some intense moments and it’s all being put on a 16 year old’s shoulders. Really good read! Can’t wait for the next!!!
My favorite parts were surprisingly the fights. I don’t normally go for books with a lot of fighting but you can see Matt really changing and pushing himself in every way during each battle. Well, they were some of my favorite parts. My FAV part was the actual driver’s exam. It’s so funny that Matt goes through all of this fighting with monsters and has to take his driver’s exam still. It reminded me that he really is just a normal, although very interesting kid. Well, young man. But that driver’s test was the funniest thing ever!~
Kendra really has a way of making this series really good. This one is a lot darker. His blade is doing all kinds of weird stuff and it starts affecting him big time. You can tell it’s getting darker and watching Matt grow and nearly get killed put me on the edge of my seat multiple times! But there’s more to it than just that. I actually had tears in my eyes a couple times. When I say intense, I mean it! This has some intense moments and it’s all being put on a 16 year old’s shoulders. Really good read! Can’t wait for the next!!!
February 9, 2013
A worthy successor to the first book, Blade’s Edge is an exciting, edge-of-your-seat adventure. This time the stakes are higher than ever. This time good friends are lost. This time relationships change and the characters are tested in ways that will astound you. This time the monsters are sneakier, smarter, and harder to dispatch.
With believable dialogues, and smoothly flowing prose, Kendra once again displays indisputable story-telling skills. The monsters are ferocious and the battle scenes are so well-described with succinct, yet powerful sentences that they easily pulled me into the action. In this installment, Matt is wiser; he is bulked up and in peak physical condition. His good friend Will is there to back him up. As Matt is maturing, so too, is Will. I REALLY like many of the characters in this series. I like the way they are changing to meet the escalating challenge, while remaining true to their basic personalities. This is an exciting series, and I am eagerly looking forward to more!
This book was provided to me by the author in return for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
With believable dialogues, and smoothly flowing prose, Kendra once again displays indisputable story-telling skills. The monsters are ferocious and the battle scenes are so well-described with succinct, yet powerful sentences that they easily pulled me into the action. In this installment, Matt is wiser; he is bulked up and in peak physical condition. His good friend Will is there to back him up. As Matt is maturing, so too, is Will. I REALLY like many of the characters in this series. I like the way they are changing to meet the escalating challenge, while remaining true to their basic personalities. This is an exciting series, and I am eagerly looking forward to more!
This book was provided to me by the author in return for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
September 1, 2014
I received a free ecopy of this book for an honest review.
Matt Archer: Blade’s Edge is the second book in the series. It starts a year after the first book ended. Matt is having trouble dealing with his role as a wielder while still being in high school. His girlfriend, Ella, is also having trouble dealing with it. There were times I wanted to shake both of them as well as “Tink” for interfering. Matt’s Uncle Mike is now married with a child on the way.
The monsters in Matt Archer: Blade’s Edge are different from the ones in the previous book. They’re scarier and harder to kill. The scarier they get, the more lethal Matt gets. Although these monsters are beaten, the team knows that there are more to come.
This book is full of action and teenage drama and is easy to read. I recommend it and it stands alone but it would be even better if #1 is read first.
Matt Archer: Blade’s Edge is the second book in the series. It starts a year after the first book ended. Matt is having trouble dealing with his role as a wielder while still being in high school. His girlfriend, Ella, is also having trouble dealing with it. There were times I wanted to shake both of them as well as “Tink” for interfering. Matt’s Uncle Mike is now married with a child on the way.
The monsters in Matt Archer: Blade’s Edge are different from the ones in the previous book. They’re scarier and harder to kill. The scarier they get, the more lethal Matt gets. Although these monsters are beaten, the team knows that there are more to come.
This book is full of action and teenage drama and is easy to read. I recommend it and it stands alone but it would be even better if #1 is read first.
April 6, 2014
I enjoyed the first novel (and the novella) in the Matt Archer series, but Blade's Edge caused me to fall in love with Matt. Blade's Edge is much darker than the first in the series and Matt has to struggle with tough decisions, loss, and sacrifice. But Highley mixes in moments of humor to lighten the mood. I also thought Highley did a great job with both the battle and military scenes. She also throws in a few plot twists as well. I can't wait to read the third in the series- I think I will start it right now.
January 14, 2013
I received this book free from goodreads giveaway. I enjoyed this book even more than the first one, this is a really good Y/A series, I hope this series catch on to more media and readers. Anyone will enjoy these but the material is safe for teens/tweens. The second book added a bit more story which made the reader get to know the characters better and understand the background of Matt and his family. This could come on once a week on t.v. I would watch it!
February 6, 2013
"Matt Archer: Blades Edge" is book 2 in the 'Matt Archer' series and a bit darker than the first book. Character development is superb and the plot flows nice and smooth. Matt goes through so much in this book and does a lot of growing up. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book. A total must read for YA and not so YA readers.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
August 12, 2013
The thing I enjoy most about these books is how gritty they are. No one is sage, people get hurt, they day, shitty things happen. It's a nice change from all those books where the main team come out completely unscathed. These vs may come out stronger than ever but that get put through hell first. I had my doubts about Matt to begin with but his character has truly grown in a way that is both horrible and believable. Looking forward to the next one
May 30, 2013
I loved Matt Archer as a monster hunter in the first book and Matt Archer's summer was a great appetizer to the Blade's Edge. I was literally on the edge of my seat when they went into rescue mode in Afghanistan caves. Nothing good can happen in caves (well...besides stalactites and stalagmites). I was feeling a little claustrophobic. Great job, Mrs. Highley...when do the movies come out?
April 15, 2013
Very nice followup. Gets a bit darker in theme as a number of reviewers also mention, which fits the plot very well. Not much to say beyond suggesting you to buy it if you just liked book 1 a little.
December 25, 2022
Awesome book
this book is awesome. I don't want to give anything away. just be sure to read this book and the short novella book first. I have read up to the fourth book and I can not wait till the fifth. I have also read them more than once.
this book is awesome. I don't want to give anything away. just be sure to read this book and the short novella book first. I have read up to the fourth book and I can not wait till the fifth. I have also read them more than once.
November 11, 2013
What a page turner! I read the bulk of this book in one day and had the hardest time putting it down. I think this book was even better than the first one… and that's saying a lot! Looking forward to diving into book 3!
July 30, 2013
I love this series. SO. MUCH. Seriously one of my favorite series!
June 13, 2018
Didnt quite connect with this one as much as the first book. Theres a lot more military involvement in this one which I enjoyed at first, but often found myself wishing matt was at home more to drive home how odd the situation was that a almost 16 year old kid was hunting monsters.
The writing is still on point though and pacing kept things moving very well.
Good book, and if you enjoyed the previous volume you will like this one. Just didnt impress me as much as the first one, but I imagine some readers will prefer to see the increased military activity.
The writing is still on point though and pacing kept things moving very well.
Good book, and if you enjoyed the previous volume you will like this one. Just didnt impress me as much as the first one, but I imagine some readers will prefer to see the increased military activity.
September 22, 2014
Oh, boy! In Matt Archer: Monster Hunter, Matt discovers he is born to hunt monsters with the aid of a knife which seems to give him special powers. Now Matt finds so much more about this knife – and most of it in the most dangerous locations you can imagine.
Monsters are being found all over the world – they are making off with the young and vulnerable, and leaving able-bodied men disfigured and dying outside the homes they were trying to defend. The monster hunting unit is doing its best, but have to call up Matt, with his special affinity to his knife, even though he is only fifteen.
There is action all the way in Ms Highley’s amazing adventure. The only relief is when Matt is at home, and then he is squirming to keep his friends from knowing the truth, and his mother from knowing anything at all. I sometimes wonder at the precise definition of violence allowable for teen and YA readers – I’m sure there is too much here for older MG, but then it isn’t much more than Jack Templar (also a monster hunter, but different monsters, different setting and a different set of legends). Maybe it is the contemporary setting and US Army inside information that makes the difference. It seems very real, judging from what we see of army activity in films and in documentaries about Afghanistan, where much of this book is set.
It is terrifically well written, and the tension just builds and builds. As hinted by the book blast last month, there is plenty more to come. This is an outstanding series, and I’m looking forward to the next one – when I’ve recovered!
Monsters are being found all over the world – they are making off with the young and vulnerable, and leaving able-bodied men disfigured and dying outside the homes they were trying to defend. The monster hunting unit is doing its best, but have to call up Matt, with his special affinity to his knife, even though he is only fifteen.
There is action all the way in Ms Highley’s amazing adventure. The only relief is when Matt is at home, and then he is squirming to keep his friends from knowing the truth, and his mother from knowing anything at all. I sometimes wonder at the precise definition of violence allowable for teen and YA readers – I’m sure there is too much here for older MG, but then it isn’t much more than Jack Templar (also a monster hunter, but different monsters, different setting and a different set of legends). Maybe it is the contemporary setting and US Army inside information that makes the difference. It seems very real, judging from what we see of army activity in films and in documentaries about Afghanistan, where much of this book is set.
It is terrifically well written, and the tension just builds and builds. As hinted by the book blast last month, there is plenty more to come. This is an outstanding series, and I’m looking forward to the next one – when I’ve recovered!
July 18, 2014
It's been a year since Matt became a weilder and started going around the world on missions to save people from terrifying mutated monsters. Things are changing for him at every turn, his sister wasn't buying his lies and found out the truth pretty quick. And Ella his now girlfriend wasn't too far behind in figuring things out. He's still trying to keep his mom in the dark, and if she figures it out his position in the program could be in jeopardy. With rumors of Zombies coming out of Afganistan and his knife doing some very strange things normal for him is becoming very different from everyone else.
Matt is becoming even stronger and is learning to trust his instincts even when they go against what others around say to do. He is still all about doing what is right even when it's that hardest thing he's ever done. He takes things one step at a time going step by step and not allowing himself to get overwhelmed by everything around him.
The story continues to evolve and grow and you get even more involved with the characters as their journeys continue.
Matt is becoming even stronger and is learning to trust his instincts even when they go against what others around say to do. He is still all about doing what is right even when it's that hardest thing he's ever done. He takes things one step at a time going step by step and not allowing himself to get overwhelmed by everything around him.
The story continues to evolve and grow and you get even more involved with the characters as their journeys continue.
April 26, 2016
Matt Archer:Blade's Edge (Book #2)
This was supposed to be an easy afternoon read..but the more I read, the more I want to read. This is an inspiring story. You have a young man, although he is only 16 years of age he is definitely a man,who has been chosen by a SUPERNATURAL entity to assist in a battle against an EVIL older than mankind. He trays to maintain himself though he is losing friends to the fight constantly. His girlfriend has left him and no one knows the whereabouts of his father.Still he has made the decision to go on with the battles. Battles that are getting more dangerous. A very THRILLING , MYSTERIOUS series. I RECOMMEND
This was supposed to be an easy afternoon read..but the more I read, the more I want to read. This is an inspiring story. You have a young man, although he is only 16 years of age he is definitely a man,who has been chosen by a SUPERNATURAL entity to assist in a battle against an EVIL older than mankind. He trays to maintain himself though he is losing friends to the fight constantly. His girlfriend has left him and no one knows the whereabouts of his father.Still he has made the decision to go on with the battles. Battles that are getting more dangerous. A very THRILLING , MYSTERIOUS series. I RECOMMEND
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