What do you think?
Rate this book
Alex Wise #2
Alex Wise vs. the Cosmic Shift
No one ever said saving the world would be easy. In the second installment of this thrilling fantasy series all about finding your inner hero, a 12-year-old boy leads the charge against the Horsemen of the Apocalypse.
Alex Wise is no superhero. Or at least, he doesn't feel like one. Sure, he vanquished Death and saved his sister Mags—with the help of some new magic powers, his best friend Loren and demi-god Liam. But the apocalypse shows no signs of slowing down. Now, Alex and his friends will have to find new allies and face new dangers—from battling a giant snake in a literal ghost town and infiltrating the Horsemen’s new home base on the Vegas Strip…on the back of a dragon.
With everyone looking to him for answers, Alex isn't sure he's cut out for this world saving thing. And the closer he gets to Liam, the farther away he feels from Loren and from Mags, who hasn't been the same since she was possessed by Death. How can Alex lead a team if he doesn't even feel like he deserves to be a part of it?
“Never has the apocalypse been so fun!"
—Mark Oshiro, author of THE INSIDERS and co-author with Rick Riordan of THE SUN AND THE A NICO DI ANGELO ADVENTURE.
Alex Wise is no superhero. Or at least, he doesn't feel like one. Sure, he vanquished Death and saved his sister Mags—with the help of some new magic powers, his best friend Loren and demi-god Liam. But the apocalypse shows no signs of slowing down. Now, Alex and his friends will have to find new allies and face new dangers—from battling a giant snake in a literal ghost town and infiltrating the Horsemen’s new home base on the Vegas Strip…on the back of a dragon.
With everyone looking to him for answers, Alex isn't sure he's cut out for this world saving thing. And the closer he gets to Liam, the farther away he feels from Loren and from Mags, who hasn't been the same since she was possessed by Death. How can Alex lead a team if he doesn't even feel like he deserves to be a part of it?
“Never has the apocalypse been so fun!"
—Mark Oshiro, author of THE INSIDERS and co-author with Rick Riordan of THE SUN AND THE A NICO DI ANGELO ADVENTURE.
238 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 24, 2024
3 people are currently reading
146 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
February 26, 2025
2025 reads: 35/300
in this sequel to alex wise vs. the end of the world, alex wise and his friends have to find new allies to fight off the apocalypse, which is still impending. alex is supposed to be the hero, but how can he step up to the challenge when he doesn’t see it himself?
after reading book one, i knew i needed to get to this book quickly! this had a great amount of action, but i loved the character development even more. as mentioned earlier, alex really doesn’t feel like he should be the leader, or even a part of the team at all. he’s also dealing with the sting of betrayal, further contributing to his low self-confidence. also, his relationships with his friends and family members are fraught, which doesn’t help anything. still, he started to grow through these challenges. i loved seeing him grow throughout the story. i can’t wait for book three!
in this sequel to alex wise vs. the end of the world, alex wise and his friends have to find new allies to fight off the apocalypse, which is still impending. alex is supposed to be the hero, but how can he step up to the challenge when he doesn’t see it himself?
after reading book one, i knew i needed to get to this book quickly! this had a great amount of action, but i loved the character development even more. as mentioned earlier, alex really doesn’t feel like he should be the leader, or even a part of the team at all. he’s also dealing with the sting of betrayal, further contributing to his low self-confidence. also, his relationships with his friends and family members are fraught, which doesn’t help anything. still, he started to grow through these challenges. i loved seeing him grow throughout the story. i can’t wait for book three!
June 23, 2024
Thank you to the publishers & TJ for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Terry does it again in another thrilling installment to the Alex Wise series. Alex is back with his friends still continuing the mission to stop the Horsemen from completing their plans for the Apocalypse. Fresh off of a major betrayal and still very much insecure about being the child savior of the universe, we see Alex doubting himself more than ever. His relationships seem fragile. He’s not sure where he belongs in this grand plan for the universe and he doesn’t feel like the “superhero” everyone makes him out to be. He’s just a kid with huge responsibilities on his shoulders.
I’ll say it a million times but I always get inspired reading these books. Inspired to see people in different ways as well as inspired to believe in myself and others. Alex is a hero every child can look up to. He is flawed in a way we all are but he’s eager to learn and grow. We get lessons of listening to others and allowing yourself time and grace to heal. We also have to remember that everyone here is a child and needs even more time for these things.
The major plot twist at the end had me shook yet again like the last book. I’m over here eager for book 3 before 2 is even released. The TJ Verse has no limits and I’m here for every single thing that is created. Love you TJ and thank you again!!
Terry does it again in another thrilling installment to the Alex Wise series. Alex is back with his friends still continuing the mission to stop the Horsemen from completing their plans for the Apocalypse. Fresh off of a major betrayal and still very much insecure about being the child savior of the universe, we see Alex doubting himself more than ever. His relationships seem fragile. He’s not sure where he belongs in this grand plan for the universe and he doesn’t feel like the “superhero” everyone makes him out to be. He’s just a kid with huge responsibilities on his shoulders.
I’ll say it a million times but I always get inspired reading these books. Inspired to see people in different ways as well as inspired to believe in myself and others. Alex is a hero every child can look up to. He is flawed in a way we all are but he’s eager to learn and grow. We get lessons of listening to others and allowing yourself time and grace to heal. We also have to remember that everyone here is a child and needs even more time for these things.
The major plot twist at the end had me shook yet again like the last book. I’m over here eager for book 3 before 2 is even released. The TJ Verse has no limits and I’m here for every single thing that is created. Love you TJ and thank you again!!
September 7, 2024
5 stars
This is a great series with a fantastic protagonist, and this second book is a worthy addition to Alex's ever-growing experiences and readers' bookshelves.
While Alex's adventurous and heroic nature keep the plot moving swiftly, it's his personal growth that makes him (and this series overall)) stand out. He's an intriguing balance of confidence and ability and self-doubt and uncertainty. Despite his highly unusual characteristics, these cornerstones paint him as a deeply relatable character, especially to young readers.
I enjoy this author and this character, and I look forward to wherever they both take us next.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Labyrinth Road for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
This is a great series with a fantastic protagonist, and this second book is a worthy addition to Alex's ever-growing experiences and readers' bookshelves.
While Alex's adventurous and heroic nature keep the plot moving swiftly, it's his personal growth that makes him (and this series overall)) stand out. He's an intriguing balance of confidence and ability and self-doubt and uncertainty. Despite his highly unusual characteristics, these cornerstones paint him as a deeply relatable character, especially to young readers.
I enjoy this author and this character, and I look forward to wherever they both take us next.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Labyrinth Road for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
November 20, 2024
I love this series so far!
I think I prefer book one to this, but I still had a great time. I love how we're diving deeper into Alex's emotions and those of his friends.
This was a much faster paced book compared to the first one, with nonstop action and twists and turns. The ending definitely has me on the edge of my seat waiting for more.
I highly recommend this book for the young ones and all lovers of middle grade fantasy.
I think I prefer book one to this, but I still had a great time. I love how we're diving deeper into Alex's emotions and those of his friends.
This was a much faster paced book compared to the first one, with nonstop action and twists and turns. The ending definitely has me on the edge of my seat waiting for more.
I highly recommend this book for the young ones and all lovers of middle grade fantasy.
February 13, 2025
Even though Alex Wise stopped Death and saved his sister Mags from its possession, the apocalypse is far from over. With his new powers, his best friend Loren, and the demi-god Liam, Alex must fight once more to stop the end of the world from happening, again, but that isn’t so easy. The Four Horseman have set up home base in Vegas, on the back of a dragon, a giant snake patrols a literal ghost town, and, lastly, their parents stand in the kids’ way. But Alex has bigger, inner problems. First, why is he, a twelve-year old, supposed to save the world? Second, his relationships feel like they are on thin ice; if he gets closer to Liam, he’ll lose Loren, and vice versa. And Mags hasn’t been the same since Death possessed her, and Alex is at a loss on how to help her and be a big brother. Everyone is leaning on him to lead them all to victory, but Alex might crumble under the overwhelming pressure before anyone can be saved.
Alex Wise vs. The Cosmic Shift is an engrossing and slightly darker sequel that is filled with more action, struggle, and relationship building. The plot is fast-paced and nonstop, with another great twist at the end that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The big highlight of this book, and of the series as a whole, is Alex’s personal journey of growth and acceptance. After being thrust into this dangerous situation and betrayed too many times, the pressure of saving the world, his self-doubt, and his lack of confidence are his biggest enemies. Alex must learn how to trust his friends if he is ever going to make it. Watching him struggle through these feelings brings a realistic and emotional depth to the story, setting it apart from other middle-grade action stories. Overall, this is an engaging and heart-pounding sequel, and readers won’t want to wait until the third installment. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
Alex Wise vs. The Cosmic Shift is an engrossing and slightly darker sequel that is filled with more action, struggle, and relationship building. The plot is fast-paced and nonstop, with another great twist at the end that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The big highlight of this book, and of the series as a whole, is Alex’s personal journey of growth and acceptance. After being thrust into this dangerous situation and betrayed too many times, the pressure of saving the world, his self-doubt, and his lack of confidence are his biggest enemies. Alex must learn how to trust his friends if he is ever going to make it. Watching him struggle through these feelings brings a realistic and emotional depth to the story, setting it apart from other middle-grade action stories. Overall, this is an engaging and heart-pounding sequel, and readers won’t want to wait until the third installment. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
July 21, 2024
Thank you Random House Children’s and Netgalley for this eARC, these opinions are my own. One of the things I love most about Terry Benton-Walker is that each book in a series becomes more intriguing, slightly darker, and consumes you even more! Alex, Loren, and Liam have defeated one of the horseman in doing so they were able to get Mags back. But things can never be easy, there’s still 3 horseman left and they were betrayed by someone close, someone Alex looked up too. They have an apocalypse to stop, but now their parents are standing in their way. Alex is also struggling with the weight on his shoulders, his sister not talking to him, and the complications of his stepbrother. Once they receive word that the Horsemen have relocated to Vegas, they sneak out to get away from their parents and head to Vegas to end this once and for all. But when they face complication after complication they may just to be ready to handle what’s coming. Can Alex withstand the pressure and end the apocalypse? Can he keep all his loved ones safe? When he’s been betrayed and betrayed can he trust anyone? I loved that this one gets a step darker than the first one! Alex, Liam, and Loren know their responsibility but the wait of it is starting to drag them down. Alex is especially feeling pressure but also doesn’t feel like he has anyone he can talk to. Plus he is really struggling with trust and his feelings for Liam. Which are complicated because of his lack of trust. Exciting from the first page that will have readers flipping the pages to find out what happens! But be prepared the ending will leave you wanting more! You still have funny parts, I love Alex’s humor! This book brings in more emotional depth and weight that is incredibly realistic! Alex Wise should be on everyone’s reading lists!
November 7, 2024
Alex Wise is back and better than ever! In 'Alex Wise Vs. the Cosmic Shift,' Alex and his crew are dealing with the apocalypse aftermath, because who doesn't love a good post-apocalyptic party? It's time for Alex and his friends/family to finish what they started - kicking those evil horsemen and a traitorous friend to the curb. Oh, and Alex has some feelings to work through, too, because saving the world is hard on the emotions.
I love that Alex is a flawed superhero - it makes him relatable and likable. This book is just as action-packed and hilarious as the first one. However, Mr. Terry J. Benton-Walker, firstly- how dare you? Secondly, how dare you? Thirdly, HOW DARE YOU give us a shorter yet fantastic book and then leave us with a cliffhanger? You better have the third book ready for release yesterday! With love, though!
Terry J. Benton-Walker has become my literary obsession this year. Each book is like a shot of adrenaline - I'm on the edge of my seat, biting my nails, and questioning the people around me... I love how his characters are so complex, even the 'villains' are weirdly likable. Is it me? Am I the problem? I'm hooked and can't wait to devour his next masterpiece.
I would recommend this superhero book that some say is as great, if not better, than the Percy Jackson books- the Alex Wise books the Alex Wise books are a hilarious and thrilling read for the whole family!
I love that Alex is a flawed superhero - it makes him relatable and likable. This book is just as action-packed and hilarious as the first one. However, Mr. Terry J. Benton-Walker, firstly- how dare you? Secondly, how dare you? Thirdly, HOW DARE YOU give us a shorter yet fantastic book and then leave us with a cliffhanger? You better have the third book ready for release yesterday! With love, though!
Terry J. Benton-Walker has become my literary obsession this year. Each book is like a shot of adrenaline - I'm on the edge of my seat, biting my nails, and questioning the people around me... I love how his characters are so complex, even the 'villains' are weirdly likable. Is it me? Am I the problem? I'm hooked and can't wait to devour his next masterpiece.
I would recommend this superhero book that some say is as great, if not better, than the Percy Jackson books- the Alex Wise books the Alex Wise books are a hilarious and thrilling read for the whole family!
September 7, 2024
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.
Alex Wise vs. the Cosmic Shift picks up where the last adventure left off, and once again, Terry J. Benton-Walker delivers an epic, fast-paced apocalyptic adventure.
Alex is fresh from defeating the First Horseman, but he still has a lot on his plate, with three to go. I enjoyed seeing his growth as he tackled new challenges, as well as personal issues with his family and other loved ones, including reckoning with the fallout from a betrayal by someone he trusted. His uncertainty in the midst of it all is relatable, but he perseveres and continues to evolve over the course of the narrative.
The titular Cosmic Shift raises the stakes quite a bit, especially with frequent reminders of the time counting down. This made for an effective building of tension, culminating in a satisfying climax, resolution, and open ending setting up the next book.
This was a satisfying read, and I’d recommend it to readers looking for an apocalyptic Middle Grade fantasy-adventure. .
Alex Wise vs. the Cosmic Shift picks up where the last adventure left off, and once again, Terry J. Benton-Walker delivers an epic, fast-paced apocalyptic adventure.
Alex is fresh from defeating the First Horseman, but he still has a lot on his plate, with three to go. I enjoyed seeing his growth as he tackled new challenges, as well as personal issues with his family and other loved ones, including reckoning with the fallout from a betrayal by someone he trusted. His uncertainty in the midst of it all is relatable, but he perseveres and continues to evolve over the course of the narrative.
The titular Cosmic Shift raises the stakes quite a bit, especially with frequent reminders of the time counting down. This made for an effective building of tension, culminating in a satisfying climax, resolution, and open ending setting up the next book.
This was a satisfying read, and I’d recommend it to readers looking for an apocalyptic Middle Grade fantasy-adventure. .
October 26, 2024
Not the best I have ever read in the style, but a clear improvement from Book 1. Far better pacing and structure, and easier to follow as a result. But my primary criticism remains the shallowness, and not just because it is a YA novel. There are plenty of world-building details. And the main character is very clearly “real.” But other characters feel less complete, plot moments are still really rapid, and even though the story is really engaging, it just doesn’t feel like a flesh and blood world without that depth of the rest of it. I criticize because it could be amazing. The progress from boom 1 to 2 is promising. I am excited for book 3 and the continuation of the story. I also LOVE the full range of gender identities, orientations, races, mental health, and other aspects of peoplehood. It is really refreshing to read this type of hero story and include so many of these things in a “it is just part of life” not a big deal way. Alex’s constant “what makes a hero?” journey is a really important conversation, even if I wish it did go further.
February 19, 2025
Public library copy
This had its moments, but I am debating purchase because the first book has not circulated well. Imagine there will be at least a book three. May wait to see if circulation improves, and if this will only be a three book series. Longer fantasy series are even harder to get my students to pick up. This is a good choice for readers who enjoyed Perry's Cameron Battle, Allen's The Skeleton Fluteor Oshiro's The Insiders.
This had its moments, but I am debating purchase because the first book has not circulated well. Imagine there will be at least a book three. May wait to see if circulation improves, and if this will only be a three book series. Longer fantasy series are even harder to get my students to pick up. This is a good choice for readers who enjoyed Perry's Cameron Battle, Allen's The Skeleton Fluteor Oshiro's The Insiders.
August 26, 2025
In my eyes, TJBW can do no wrong in my eyes! He paints the scene so well that it’s like it’s playing out in front of you. I’m enjoying how we are growing with Alex and the crew as they save the world from the apocalypse. Picking up right where we left off, this adventure takes us through the chaos of Pestilence and Calamity with a sprinkle of comedic relief. Great follow up! I can’t wait for the finale
September 23, 2024
Originally from NetGalley: This book is perfect for middle grade readers who love Percy Jackson or any of the Rick Riordan Presents series, but who want more diverse characters regarding race, gender, and sexuality. The action is non-stop and the world is fascinating, but there are some surprisingly realistic moments in the book, too. I will definitely be recommending this one to our patrons.
January 19, 2026
This hero would desperately like his story to turn into a kissing book, but I’m enjoying his disappointment because I’m allergic to middle grade romance. I like the magic system and the sister, and I like Alex enough to put up with all his internal angsting during his adventures.
June 3, 2025
somehow this book is emotionally healing to me? love it love it I cannot wait to read more
November 21, 2024
okkkkkkkkk i mean i loved this but mostly i just felt let down because everything got pushed off to book three
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews