Jack and Gwen are back in this dynamic follow-up to The Lost Property Office.
It’s been a year since Jack Buckles discovered the Keep beneath Baker Street, an underground tower no Section Thirteen was ever supposed to see; a year since his dad fell into a coma. Nothing has been the same since. Jack’s tracker abilities are on the fritz, Gwen’s not speaking to him and, what’s worse, there’s a pounding voice in his head calling for “the flame.”
Then, Jack and Gwen are framed for the theft of a historic crown jewel—the Black Prince’s Ruby, one of three cursed rubies said to bring knowledge, loyalty, and the command of nations to whomever wields them all. Now, they must retrieve the other jewels before the true thief does, or risk unleashing a reign of terror unlike anything history’s ever seen.
James R. Hannibal an award-winning author of kids fiction, spy and military thrillers, and young adult fantasy. As a former stealth bomber pilot and drone pilot James is no stranger to action or secrets. He has been shot at, locked up by a surface to air missile system, and aided the capture of High Value Targets.
Okay, so this book is nonstop adventure. And it also has some great character growth from the first one. Jack doesn't get it all right the first time or even every time. Sometimes things work because he figures them out, occasionally, there's a bit of "luck" involved, other times someone else figures it out or makes a mistake that helps him. But mostly, he's just a kid trying to do the right thing and sometimes in the wrong ways so that we end up with a great story.
Parental note: If stories of magical elements are a problem, even if the last book's content didn't bother you, this one might. Folks who didn't like Harry Potter or Narnia, for instance, would likely not enjoy this. There a guy trying to use the "spirit" of a historical warrior to take over the world in this one. Jack's job is to stop him.
Encore une fois, ça frappe fort ! J’adore le personnage de Gwen qui me fait penser à Hermione.
Le rythme est soutenu et rapide avec de courts chapitres ce qui rend la lecture très fluide. C’est un roman jeunesse qui donne envie de le lire et de le finir. De beaux messages sont passés sans que ce soit moralisateur !
Jack Buckles returns in this fun sequel to last year's Lost Property Office. Now he's an official part of The Ministry of Trackers but still, being a Section 13, is held at arm's length and mistrusted. After a disappointing performance in a training exercise, he is down on his luck and jumps at a chance to meet with his former mentor. Things don't go as planned (naturally), and Jack is accused of stealing Britain's Crown Jewels. He's innocent, but unable to prove it and so is out on the lam. Again assisted by Gwen, Jack dives into a plot to steal 4 very special rubies connected to the legacy of Genghis Kahn.
The book is a lot of fun. Once again, Hannibal's world is immersive and full of the little details that make the story shine. We are given some more peaks of life inside the Ministries, but are also given a chance to stretch our wings and leave London. Gwen and Jack are fun characters who work well together, and Hannibal introduces some other intriguing individuals, particularly the mysterious Raven. While the book is a complete story in itself, it both enlarges the original narrative and hints at future volumes of the Section 13 series. There are mysteries yet to be unraveled, and I, for one, look forward to reading how Jack's journey continues.
The puzzles are engrossing, unexpected twists abound, and the settings are exotic and magical and well-detailed. You can easily see the action take place in your mind, and the geography of the different tombs and hideaways are sound and easy to follow. I recommend this book for anyone who likes a good, fun, Middle Grade adventure, such as fans of Percy Jackson or the Blackthorn Key series.
Jack’s father has been in a coma for a year now, and Jack is losing control over his newly discovered powers. Jack and Gwen are framed for stealing the Crown Jewels. Why would his mentor do that to them? In order to clear their names, Jack and Gwen must escape the clutches of all of the Ministries and track down a famous missing ruby – heading straight into danger and deceit.
Exciting adventures and mystery await young readers. A great addition to a collection where fantasy novels checkout well. Similar to Chris Colfer’s and Derek Benz’s series in flavor.
Although I didn't read the first book in this series and had little trouble settling into the story with this second tale, I would highly recommend starting the series at the beginning.
Packed with fast-paced adventure, interesting twists and magic around every corner, this story reminds a bit of Harry Potter while carrying more tension and a tiny dash of steampunk atmosphere.
Jack Buckles is training to be a Tracker, but being a section 13 still hangs on him like a layer of stinky, sticky goo. To make matters worse, he's afraid his powers aren't working quite right—something he's trying to hide. When his professor wants to meet him, the situation rocks into chaos and Jack finds himself as the main suspect in the theft of the Crown Jewels. Jack must prove his innocence before he's captured by authorities but ends up in the middle of something larger than he might be able to handle.
From the first page, a rich world opens up and sucks the reader in. The author melds character sympathy, world building and tension into a perfect balance from the very first chapter. Mystery hits right away in a curious, unsolved event, and then leads right into Jack's first problematic situation—one which shows his determination and frustration, making him a character easy to identify with and root for. He's an underdog thanks to his past, much he couldn't do anything about and isn't his fault, but luckily, pity doesn't cling too thick. He does what he has to do, no matter what the villains bring against him—and what horribly evil villains these are!
The adventure is fast, exciting and constantly hits with explosions, near escapes and tension pure. But the author also builds in clever twists and turns, which enrich the mystery and intrigue. The puzzles and riddles mix in nicely with magic and intrigue. Add the morsels of pure fantasy like buildings with gravity sometimes up and sometimes down, and it's simply a fun read.
Summed up, this is a wonderful series for fantasy friends who love non-stop adventure and action, but enjoy a magical world full richness and clever innovations throw in. At 400 + pages, it might seem like a heavy read, but the tale grabs up and guarantees excitement the whole way through.
I received a complimentary copy and so loved this world that I wanted to leave my honest thoughts.
I have a knack for picking up sequels thinking that they're standalones. But not this time. This time, I happened upon an ARC of this book (even though it's already out), and I just felt a rush of love swell into my heart. I love this series, and the fact that I was able to get my hands on the sequel was just incredible. I read it as quickly as I could. In fact, I read it in one sitting.
There's just something about these characters that fully entrances me. And the world building oh my god. It's just so intriguing--all I want to do is read about the history of this underground society. (Secretly, I'm Gwen).
Okay, but also, I just gotta talk about this. Hannibal makes libraries sound so cool. So, I'm in library school right now. So of course all of my classmates realize how incredible libraries are and how useful they are to society. But a lot of people don't feel the same way. But in this book, we have an archivist who always knows exactly what you need. And there's a room filled with a special collection. That special collection is dragons. Dragons. Has there ever been a cooler librarian? Hashtag goals.
But really, even though this book is technically fantasy and steampunk and fiction, I learned quite a lot about history and geography. And about thieving. But that last bit's beside the point.
Overall, this series is incredible, and this sequel was amazing. It maintains the same tone as the first while allowing the characters to grow into themselves a little more. I highly recommend it.
Jack Buckles is being trained as a tracker—the youngest. He isn’t even supposed to know about the Ministry of Secrets. He is a cursed 13. But since he’s here and knows they might as well do something with him.
Unfortunately, his friend Gwen isn’t getting the same attention. While Jack participates in the tracker games with a different quartermaster, Gwen was still regarded as a clerk—a paper pusher. (Yes, paper pushers are needed in this world, but Gwen’s talents exceed the level of paper pusher). When Jack manages to escape the confines of the Keep, Gwen gets to step up her game as they find themselves the main suspects in a jewel robbery. All while Jack’s tracker senses are on the fritz.
And there are dragons. Fire-breathing dragons! Each chapter ends on a cliff hanger compelling you to read the next. Hidden rooms. London underground. Puzzles. And dragons.
If you like Harry Potter, or Sherlock Holmes, or both—read James R. Hannibal’s The Fourth Ruby. Seriously, I don’t care how old you are, you should read this book.
Unless you haven’t read The Lost Property Office. In that case, read the Lost Property Office first (it’s book 1 after all), then read The Fourth Ruby (because it’s book 2, duh).
a fast paced read. I can't put this book down. It's nice to see Sadie being included in the adventure this time. I hope to see more of Sadie ability as well in the next book. I actually enjoy reading the second book more than the first book. And I didn't find Gwen annoying this time.
[spoiler below]
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Since their last adventure a year ago, Jack and Gwen haven't been speaking too much. Jack has been working with another (more advanced) Quartermaster while also keeping another secret... he might be losing his power. It's no wonder Gwen hasn't been talking to him lately. The book opens with Jack being in the middle of the Hunt (an annual game) and betraying the fact that he can spark. Keeping that secret causes him to get kicked out of the Hunt. Life doesn't get any better after he gets set up for the theft of the Royal Crown jewels. And just like that, Jack, Gwen and even his sister Sophie are off on a trip that will take them to exotic locales. This book started off both slow and confusing. If you haven't read the first book, I would definitely suggest starting there. It did get better though and I am looking forward to the third book in the series.
If you are a fan of Harry Potter, then you will love this series!
I didn’t read the first book in the series, so I may have missed out on a lot. However, that didn’t stop me from getting stuck into book two, I loved it and will be going back to read the first book as soon as I get the chance. I started reading it this morning – my ‘adulting’ forgotten until I finished the book. I could not put it down.
Though this book is ideal for young readers, like HP it can be read and enjoyed by adults too. At 400+ pages, it didn’t feel like it was that long, it was fast paced, always something going on and it kept you gripped right the way through it.
I will be going back to read book one and I will re-read this book again too, I enjoyed it that much. I will also be checking out other books that James has written. I would certainly recommend this series!
The fourth ruby by James Hannibal and this is my first book that I have read from this Author. This book flows perfectly and can be easy to follow too. Even though this book was too long it was still a good read. As a reader I feel that this book was too long and when a book is too long the reader might not end up finishing reading this book because they will feel that the Author's wriing might be all over the place. I love darkish type books. There are way too many characters to choose from in this book but there is one that truly stuck out into my mind and that is Jack Buckles because by birth he was a good tracker and he started to have problems with the most keen senses.
An amazing story great for elementary through tween. Others have put up synopses here, so there is no need for me to repeat it. The characters are strong, positive role models. On the surface they are dealing with a heist, stopping a thief, clearing their names, and in the process saving the world. On a deeper level they are dealing with a friendship gone cold due to Jack's struggle to be the man of his family while his father is in a coma. Jack must learn to live again, even though he feels like his whole life is on hold, waiting for his dad to wake up. Positive messages reach the reader because they are framed in high adventure. Highly recommended.
Thanks to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers for the opportunity to read and review The Fourth Ruby by James R. Hannibal! This sequel to The Lost Property Office finds the Buckles siblings, Jack and Sadie, relaxing by the fireplace. The siblings begin another quest with Gwen while they search for a thief together and the item the thief is after, the fourth ruby. The Mongolian history was interesting to read about and I liked how the author tied it into the Buckles’ lives. Jack continues and is determined to help his father throughout this new adventure even though many dangers are lurking. Fun steampunk mystery! 4 stars.
I'm trying to decide if Gwen is a girl who happens to be a bossy know-it-all or if she's a giant stereotype. Also, are we just going to keep ignoring Sadie? Obnoxious. Either stop giving obvious hints or further her story along. And I ignored it in the first book, but the made up phrase "freckle bounce" is a terrible replacement for "smile" and is repeated way too much throughout the book. His language overall is fairly repetitive, actually. I'm listing all these things that annoyed me, but I did still enjoy the story. The series seems to be taking a weird turn, but I am still interested to see where it goes. I definitely liked the first book more than this one, however.
This series is really gathering speed with this second book. We're on an adventure with Jack and his friends where everything is going wrong and no one can be trusted. Not even Jack himself. Is he capable of the things people say he has done? Stolen rubies, betrayal, lies are all being placed at his feet and Jack himself isn't sure what's happening to him either. With a power of ancient origin leading him forward what will he do when faced with the ultimate decision of life and death.
James Hannibal has managed to create an unique series that really needs to be on everyone's action/adventure shelf. A definite recommend.
James R. Hannibal has done it again! The follow-up to his incredible Middle Grade debut, THE LOST PROPERTY OFFICE strikes gold! His first book introduces his characters and a world unlike any other I’ve read before! In this book, he explores these characters even deeper, with quite a few twists along the way! Hannibal’s strength is his ability to weave historical events into his fantastical world, all in a manner easily understood by the reader. A great read for Middle Grade readers and up (I read my kid’s copy)! Highly recommended!
"The Fourth Ruby" is the second book in the Section 13 series and I'm loving it! Although fantasy, it also has elements of realistic fiction with historical facts interwoven in the story. I find this and the world building quite delightful.
Like the first book, it is a bit violent (not as graphic as the villain getting his hand cut off), but there are scenes of historical battles and there are some fight scenes at the end. But there is no apparent agenda, no swearing and I loved the relationship between Jack and his little sister, Sadie.
Though I didn't remember terribly clearly what had happened in book one, I dove into book two. I found it more compelling than book one - I liked the historical ties to the quest more, I think. That being said, I don't find this series very notable. I enjoy it well enough but don't think it's doing anything remarkably unique. I'll keep reading, but hope it doesn't go on forever.
Thanks to the publisher for a digital advance reader's copy, provided via Edelweiss.
I might be biased but wOah is this one of the first times I hear about Mongolian history in the books I’ve read. I will say that the characters felt a little annoying in this book. Gwen is kind of confusing, and Sadie feels like a plot device sometimes. I think Jack’s drive alone pushed me through this.
I will say that Jack and Sadie are quite the endearing pair, haha. Also how is Jack not done with Sadie—?
Strange twists and turns made this story exciting and kept me guessing as to what would happen with Jack's tracker senses. Things are so up in the air for much of the story, and I appreciate how the author does not choose easy resolutions. The historical aspect also was a draw as were the settings which took us around the world this time. I am looking forward to book three and more of Jack, Gwen, and Sadie.
I enjoyed this book as much as the first one. I love the narrow escapes, sparking, and the endless adventure that Jack is involved in as a 13. This book makes me think of the Harry Potter world building, splash in some Sherlock with the team of Jack and Gwen, then the fantastical of Dr. Who with the gadgets/sparking. See... now you need to read it!
Jack & Gwen are at it again. Junior members of the Ministry of Lost Property, Jack and Gwen are on another adventure hunting down artifacts and saving mankind.
I enjoyed this book as much as the first. I love the introduction of new characters and plot twists. Can't wait to read the third book.
Took me awhile to get into this second book for some reason, but once I finally got past the first chapter or two then the story really picked up and I had a hard time putting it down. Excited to see where the third book takes us and if Jack's father will be in the picture more.
I really enjoy this middle grade series. It's a fantasy adventure, with all sorts of historical mentions - which I love. I liked the first book a bit more, but I'd still recommend these. I definitely want to read book 3!!
Já tak nemám ráda lidi z Fragmentu. Už podruhé se mi stalo, že knížka má takový divný konec a oni nevydají další díly. Achjo. Knížka byla ale skvělá, to ne že ne. Jen mám zase po dočtení spoustu otázek a odpovědi nikde. 4, 5* z 5*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
A great read and a good follow-up to the first book. The plot and story hold up on their own individually from the first one which is pretty rare for part of a series. The mystery and the setup that Dove back and forth between past and present was super fun.
I listened to this book with my middle school aged son. Overall, I enjoyed the book. Occasionally it was hard to follow since the characters are going back and forth between different times. But this is a fun read (or listen) for ages 8-14. The narrator does a great job for the audio books!