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The Eagle King's Academy #2
The Box: Puppets and Puppeteers
A few years after Sarah Wangai vanished, Hayato Sano graduated from the Eagle King’s Academy. Two days later, he disappeared.
Axel faces his greatest challenge yet when he and his fellow students attend the most extravagant party of the year – the Diamond. The students are forced to test their skills against the world’s foremost elite. But the games Axel play turn treacherous, and soon he finds himself playing for his life.
Meanwhile, The Box is stepping out of the shadows. No one knows they’re coming, no one but Axel.
The Box: Puppets and Puppeteers is the second book in the acclaimed Eagle King’s Academy Series.
ebook
Published June 14, 2018
2 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
About the author
Christian Monö
6 books23 followersChristian Monö (1977), is recognized for his work on “natural followership” and “collaborationship.” For nearly two decades, he has explored leadership and followership from the follower’s perspective. Drawing insights from various disciplines, as well as real-life observations, interviews, and practical experience, Monö presents a new perspective on what it means to lead and follow. His work has gained recognition both in his home country, Sweden, and internationally, with clients ranging from universities and corporations to organizations and the Swedish Army. In 2024, he was honored with the “Followership Award of Distinction” at the Global Followership Conference. Monö lives in Stockholm with his wife and two daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
June 1, 2018
Loved the academy so was v excited to get a copy of the Box to review....all I can say is wow, cc has surpassed himself, it was brilliant. Fast paced, intricate, the plot is unfolding and we learn so much more about those leading in both the academy and the box. Cannot wait for the next book! Loved the glimpse at Axel's softer side with Nicole, the ball was a masterpiece in descriptive writing, I could visualise it all and it was stunning.
July 14, 2018
I've been waiting for this book for over a year - ever since I read the last sentence of The Academy (one of my top 3 books of last year) Let me tell you now that it was more than worth the wait.
The focus has switched slightly from the students and their tasks to the workings and extended range of The Eagle King's Academy and it's founders, 'The Seven'. The Box and their leaders are coming out of the shadows and working to keep Axel onside. We see Axel's personality impacted by his relationships with other students and staff and the temptations of incredible wealth and power seem to be making inroads into his previous distaste for all that The Academy stands for.
It's wonderfully written, the author has the tension and pacing down to a tee, the descriptions are as vivid as ever and the Diamond Ball was a total masterpiece in creating intrigue and suspense whilst thoroughly entertaining the reader with the various characters, game-playing and fabulous costumes
I truly can visualise this being an incredible series of films - these books really do need to be widely read - as with The Academy I will be raving about this book and getting everyone I know to read it - Now I'm just as impatiently waiting for the next in the series - An unreserved MASSIVE 5 Stars
The focus has switched slightly from the students and their tasks to the workings and extended range of The Eagle King's Academy and it's founders, 'The Seven'. The Box and their leaders are coming out of the shadows and working to keep Axel onside. We see Axel's personality impacted by his relationships with other students and staff and the temptations of incredible wealth and power seem to be making inroads into his previous distaste for all that The Academy stands for.
It's wonderfully written, the author has the tension and pacing down to a tee, the descriptions are as vivid as ever and the Diamond Ball was a total masterpiece in creating intrigue and suspense whilst thoroughly entertaining the reader with the various characters, game-playing and fabulous costumes
I truly can visualise this being an incredible series of films - these books really do need to be widely read - as with The Academy I will be raving about this book and getting everyone I know to read it - Now I'm just as impatiently waiting for the next in the series - An unreserved MASSIVE 5 Stars
July 23, 2018
Wow wow wow where do I even start??
This book started where the first book in the series, The Academy, left off
in a totally seamless way. I was able to dive right in and be transported straight back to The EKA.
Such intrigue, darkness and mystery in each page I literally felt I was right there with Axel and had my heart in my mouth several times.
The Diamond Ball chapters were especially dark and thrilling - just brilliant.
For me this was a complete and utter page turner from the first word - I could not put it down which isn’t great because now I’ve finished it I’m going to have to wait for book 3 and I’m not a patient person so please, please don’t leave it too long !
This book started where the first book in the series, The Academy, left off
in a totally seamless way. I was able to dive right in and be transported straight back to The EKA.
Such intrigue, darkness and mystery in each page I literally felt I was right there with Axel and had my heart in my mouth several times.
The Diamond Ball chapters were especially dark and thrilling - just brilliant.
For me this was a complete and utter page turner from the first word - I could not put it down which isn’t great because now I’ve finished it I’m going to have to wait for book 3 and I’m not a patient person so please, please don’t leave it too long !
August 5, 2018
This is the second book in this series which is already acquiring a strong following and so well deserved too. In the first book I met Axel who had been singled out of main stream university students to attend The Academy and join an elite group of students that train to be world leaders but all being controlled and manipulated by an even higher power. No-one can simply leave The Academy, if they aren’t with The Academy they are against it and if they are against it they die.
This book is set a few years after the first and whoa has Axel, the main character in the series, has changed. Axel was always the brightest student but there is a difference between knowledge and wisdom, now Axel had matured and he wasn’t quite as gullible as he once was. Not long into this book the students are invited to attend a massive ball for the elite. Oh wow, the author really set my imagination on fire in these chapters as the story takes on a much darker side of just how powerful and untouchable the top players of the world’s manipulation are. The ball is magnificent in its grandeur, spectacular with its secrecy and very deadly with its games. Oh wow, OH WOW! I will say no more on it because you must read it!
Although the core story surrounds Axel there is a back drop to a former student in the past again. The first book did the same. These really open your eyes to power that not only The Academy have but the ones with ultimate control. These are scary people.
I really liked getting to know a little about his fellow students which I feel will play some pretty massive roles further down the series. It really is a case of “Keep your friends close and your enemies closer”, but unfortunately friends for Axel are not something he seeks with his peers.
I love how the author has developed the characters, I really liked Axel in the first book, a young man with an innocence about him but as I leave this book I have an unease about him, I have seen the lengths that he will go to and he will let NO-ONE stop him! Oh boy, the thought of the next book just makes me tingle all over!
This book is set a few years after the first and whoa has Axel, the main character in the series, has changed. Axel was always the brightest student but there is a difference between knowledge and wisdom, now Axel had matured and he wasn’t quite as gullible as he once was. Not long into this book the students are invited to attend a massive ball for the elite. Oh wow, the author really set my imagination on fire in these chapters as the story takes on a much darker side of just how powerful and untouchable the top players of the world’s manipulation are. The ball is magnificent in its grandeur, spectacular with its secrecy and very deadly with its games. Oh wow, OH WOW! I will say no more on it because you must read it!
Although the core story surrounds Axel there is a back drop to a former student in the past again. The first book did the same. These really open your eyes to power that not only The Academy have but the ones with ultimate control. These are scary people.
I really liked getting to know a little about his fellow students which I feel will play some pretty massive roles further down the series. It really is a case of “Keep your friends close and your enemies closer”, but unfortunately friends for Axel are not something he seeks with his peers.
I love how the author has developed the characters, I really liked Axel in the first book, a young man with an innocence about him but as I leave this book I have an unease about him, I have seen the lengths that he will go to and he will let NO-ONE stop him! Oh boy, the thought of the next book just makes me tingle all over!
August 23, 2018
Well another brilliant and extremely well written book following on from The Academy which I also loved. As before this next instalment transports you in the a world of power, intrigue and fantastic settings and I look forward so much to the next book. Thank you C.C. for a fabulous read ..5 huge stars
June 14, 2018
OMG I had at least five books to read before this one, but I was so excited to read the next instalment in CC Möno’s The King’s Academy series that I just couldn’t wait. It didn’t disappoint.
Having read the first book a little while ago (one of my top 10 in 2017), it was fantastic to have a one page synopsis of the previous book.
All the dastardly characters are back, with the hero Axel, the cold and calculating Professor Jackson, the steely Principal Cunningham and the supportive Ms Swan being my favourites.
We learn more about Axel, the academy and the mysterious box... and I don’t want to say anymore for fear of spoiling it for you. So stop reading reviews and just read it! Utterly fabulous.
As I described book 1 as Harry Potter meets Harvard Business School, I would describe The Box as James Bond meets Harvard Business School. The ante is upped, the magical elements continue but there’s definitely more cloak and dagger and secret squirrel afoot in The Box than there was in The Academy.
OMG... now I have to wait for book three 😱😱😱😱
5*
Having read the first book a little while ago (one of my top 10 in 2017), it was fantastic to have a one page synopsis of the previous book.
All the dastardly characters are back, with the hero Axel, the cold and calculating Professor Jackson, the steely Principal Cunningham and the supportive Ms Swan being my favourites.
We learn more about Axel, the academy and the mysterious box... and I don’t want to say anymore for fear of spoiling it for you. So stop reading reviews and just read it! Utterly fabulous.
As I described book 1 as Harry Potter meets Harvard Business School, I would describe The Box as James Bond meets Harvard Business School. The ante is upped, the magical elements continue but there’s definitely more cloak and dagger and secret squirrel afoot in The Box than there was in The Academy.
OMG... now I have to wait for book three 😱😱😱😱
5*
July 15, 2018
I absolutely adored the first book in this series The Academy (read my review here), so I was delighted when I found out the next book The Box was out and I quickly moved it to the top of my toppling TBR pile.
Thank you so much to the author for the 2 page "Catch up.." at the beginning of the book, as it's been almost a year since I read The Academy and I do have problems remembering how previous books end - so a big THUMBS UP from me!
Once again we follow Axel and his fellow students at The Eagle King's Academy and once again the pace is fast, the story is thrilling and each page keeps you gripped.
We also have the fascinating back story of a previous student, Hayato Sano who disappeared after graduating and the chapters told from members of The Box - all of which connect the story seamlessly together and make this series so readable.
There are several "stand out" moments for me; The Diamond Ball; Axel's interaction with The Hostess and his relationships with Nicole and his fellow students.
If you haven't read The Academy first, seriously? What are you waiting for?
Thank you so much to the author for the 2 page "Catch up.." at the beginning of the book, as it's been almost a year since I read The Academy and I do have problems remembering how previous books end - so a big THUMBS UP from me!
Once again we follow Axel and his fellow students at The Eagle King's Academy and once again the pace is fast, the story is thrilling and each page keeps you gripped.
We also have the fascinating back story of a previous student, Hayato Sano who disappeared after graduating and the chapters told from members of The Box - all of which connect the story seamlessly together and make this series so readable.
There are several "stand out" moments for me; The Diamond Ball; Axel's interaction with The Hostess and his relationships with Nicole and his fellow students.
If you haven't read The Academy first, seriously? What are you waiting for?
June 11, 2018
Christ almighty. Forget Chris Froome, it’s CC Mono who needs to be investigated for steroids. What on Earth has he been taking since his excellent first book in this series and this sublime masterpiece?
I’m completely stumped for words.
So any newish author who wants to write in this genre (which is what btw fantasy? Magic? Dystopian?) needs to read the diamond ball scenes. I felt like I could reach out and touch the costumes, hear the intrigue and smell the fear. Mono’s descriptive writing of a fantasy event would give Harry Potter a run for its money.
My jaw is still on the floor.
So obviously thank you to the author for an arc and Helen in TBC for championing a fabulous series. When’s the next one out?!
I’m completely stumped for words.
So any newish author who wants to write in this genre (which is what btw fantasy? Magic? Dystopian?) needs to read the diamond ball scenes. I felt like I could reach out and touch the costumes, hear the intrigue and smell the fear. Mono’s descriptive writing of a fantasy event would give Harry Potter a run for its money.
My jaw is still on the floor.
So obviously thank you to the author for an arc and Helen in TBC for championing a fabulous series. When’s the next one out?!
June 16, 2018
This is story telling at its absolute best. The first book was brilliant and this one was doubly so. I loved the way the author provided a one page synopsis of the previous book and the description of the Diamond Ball was exquisite. A superb writer who knows what his readers want and delivers flawlessly.
December 15, 2018
So here’s the deal – I’ve read this book so many times I’ve lost count. It started a year and a half ago and I’ve “read” it every day since then. I’ve read every word, have fallen in love with each of the characters and pondered the plot repeatedly.
I must admit, there were days when I questioned the book, and days when the book seemed to question me (perhaps rightly so). But now that I’ve read it for the last time, I feel we shall part as best of friends.
“The Box” starts off where “The Academy” ends. It will take you from Belgium to Italy and on as we’re pulled deeper and deeper into a world of power struggles, intrigues and secrecy – all in the name of leadership.
So what’s my verdict? Well, only a fool would trust my judgement in this case, but I liked it and I hope you’ll like it too. ☺
I must admit, there were days when I questioned the book, and days when the book seemed to question me (perhaps rightly so). But now that I’ve read it for the last time, I feel we shall part as best of friends.
“The Box” starts off where “The Academy” ends. It will take you from Belgium to Italy and on as we’re pulled deeper and deeper into a world of power struggles, intrigues and secrecy – all in the name of leadership.
So what’s my verdict? Well, only a fool would trust my judgement in this case, but I liked it and I hope you’ll like it too. ☺
June 5, 2018
The Box: Puppets and Puppeteers ( The Eagle King’s Academy Book 2) by C C Mono and published by Black Chair on June 14th
Hey, so a few days on from finishing Book 1 in the Eagle King’s series I have now read book 2......as with many things inc films, albums ( showing my age ) and books you often find the ‘next’ one or follow up is not as good, or it lacks that ‘something’ that attracted you to the initial thing, with that in mind I was almost nervous to start book 2 as I sooooo wanted it to be as good as book 1...........I needn’t have wasted a second, it was just as good, as thrilling and involving and addictive.....It started ( after a 2 page reminder of what had happened in book 1 which I thought was great ) with more or less the next sentence to follow how book 1 had finished, immediately you were back there in ‘The Academy’ with Axel and the other 11, Jackson and Cunningham and all the wonderful characters that make up these stories, it was good to be back ( even after a day!) and to see the story develop and race on at a fast and exciting pace....you learn more of past ‘students’ and what happened to them when they tried to leave.....you learn more, much more about Axel and what he is capable of and you learn about ‘The Box’ who they are, why they want to end The Academy’s reign and how, with inside help, they intend to do this......you are also drawn into the powerful world of the party called ‘The Diamond Ball’ I have never enjoyed the description of a party so much and what happens there as the worlds elite challenge each other to various games and dares under the watchful eye of the ‘hostess’......truly unforgettable
This book and series has me totally addicted, if it was on TV I would be watching it nightly, its powerful, scary, enjoyable and makes you think, I love it and want the 3rd book to be ready asap!!!
My only slight criticism and it is slight is the books covers do not do them justice to what lies in them for the reader, I am not sure what would be better but a more ‘wham, in your face’ design maybe that catches the eye and lets you know just what you are about to be involved in, and you will become involved, its impossible not to be
The best series I have ever read and I mean that 10/10 5 Stars
P.S STILL not sure how you would categorise these books, adventure? Psychological? Mystery? Thriller? A word that encompasses all of them would be right 😃
June 25, 2018
I loved this even more than the Academy and I really loved it . Delving more into the EKA , it’s foundings and deep kept secrets , the author takes is on another epic adventure .. please hurry up cc mono and get the third written . Easy 5 stars ..
June 12, 2018
This was an enjoyable read. I read the first part some time ago and struggled a little catching up with a few of the characters. I seem to remember The other students being much more prominent in the previous book and ones, such as Thabo, barely featured in this one.
I recalled Axel as being a decent man in the first book, he transitions a little too quickly in this for my liking, becoming more unpleasant and arrogant. You could obviously argue this is great writing for a man under intense pressure!
I enjoyed the ball and the clever games, and the little twist blindsided me too.
I look forward to the next in the series.
I recalled Axel as being a decent man in the first book, he transitions a little too quickly in this for my liking, becoming more unpleasant and arrogant. You could obviously argue this is great writing for a man under intense pressure!
I enjoyed the ball and the clever games, and the little twist blindsided me too.
I look forward to the next in the series.
July 14, 2018
Synopsis:
The Box is the second book in the brilliant Eagle King's Academy series. The box picks up from where the Academy finishes and we see Axel beginning to take on his greatest challenge yet when attending the most extravagant party of the year, where Axel's whole life is literally at stake. The Eagle King's Academy's founders 'the seven' along with the secret organisations, 'the box' begin to come out of the woodwork, they are both a force to be reckoned with and Axel is caught right in the centre of them all. As a result of this we see Axel begin to change, his personality and relationships with the students and staff at the Academy are effected but in order to get through he must keep his head down and his secrets to himself.
Review:
After reading the first book in the Eagle King's Academy which was a fantastic piece of work, I couldn't wait to get my hands on The Box! I had high expectations for this book and I have to say these expectations were exceeded- I have nothing but praise for this book.
To start with I loved the little re-cap at the beginning, it helped me to jump straight back in to the Academy and pick up from where I left off. I was more than pleased to see that the book had short and snappy chapters again, which again suited the pace of the book. C.C Mono impressed me with his powerful quotes and words of wisdom in the first book and I was delighted that he had continued this in The Box- I found some of these inspirational at times, so thank you C.C Mono for this!
When I began to read The Box I was eager to discover who The Box really were and what they were about- the unexpected twists and turns regarding this definatley caught he me of guard and left me feeling a sense of disbelief in places. I honestly can't wait for things to really kick off between The Box and The Academy, it is going to be phenomenal climax to the series.
To begin with Axel was the only character I felt I could trust, I was still sceptical of all the other characters. After finishing the book, I can confirm I am still wary of the characters with maybe the exception of one, Axel's love interest Nicole. I was hoping throughout that things would work out between them and it tugged on my heartstrings when things turned bad for them.
As for Axel, he was still the clever and head strong Axel I knew but I was glad to see he still had his sense of vulnerability. You really begin to see him change and adapt to the dysfunctional lifestyle he is now living. He becomes more bold and daring which left me feeling panicked for him at times! I feel though as his puppet strings continue to be pulled his character may change further and Axel may not be Axel anymore.
Which brings me on to the Puppets and Puppeteers part of the title, it sums up the Academy series perfectly. All the way through you can see how controlling certain characters are and how other characters, especially the students and the staff lower in the hierocracy are treated. I just can't wait for these puppet strings to snap- things will really take off then!
Now for my favourite part of the book, the Diamond Ball scene! I struggle to find the words to sum this scene up, but here's a few, intriguing, powerful and nail biting. C. C Mono's amazing talent for writing really brought this scene to life. All the way through the image in my head was vivid, I almost felt like I was there in the background on-looking. I was tense but focused throughout this part of the book. It was a real page turner that was fantastically written. This is when I knew the book had me in its clutches and I was disappointed every time I had to put the book down.
I loved how the past and the present came together and the link between them was easy to follow as it was in the first book. Reading both past and present I could really feel the characters tension building, they were all on edge which resulted in me becoming on edge also- again C.C Mono's talent for writing allowed this to happen.
The twists and turns throughout were exceptional. They were clever, they had me shocked in places and they had me second guessing myself throughout- I really couldn't call what would happen which is why this book was so intriguing. I was kept on my toes throughout and I loved it!
When finishing this book, I generally felt quite saddened because I really did not want it to end. The book cleverly left you in a place where you had some answers but wanted to find out so much more. Despite all the action and drama throughout, you could tell that this was only the beginning, yet the book had ended! I genuinely want my next fix now! I honestly have nothing negative to say about this book and I thank you C.C Mono for this amazing book- such a talented author who is able to captivate his readers.
The Box is the second book in the brilliant Eagle King's Academy series. The box picks up from where the Academy finishes and we see Axel beginning to take on his greatest challenge yet when attending the most extravagant party of the year, where Axel's whole life is literally at stake. The Eagle King's Academy's founders 'the seven' along with the secret organisations, 'the box' begin to come out of the woodwork, they are both a force to be reckoned with and Axel is caught right in the centre of them all. As a result of this we see Axel begin to change, his personality and relationships with the students and staff at the Academy are effected but in order to get through he must keep his head down and his secrets to himself.
Review:
After reading the first book in the Eagle King's Academy which was a fantastic piece of work, I couldn't wait to get my hands on The Box! I had high expectations for this book and I have to say these expectations were exceeded- I have nothing but praise for this book.
To start with I loved the little re-cap at the beginning, it helped me to jump straight back in to the Academy and pick up from where I left off. I was more than pleased to see that the book had short and snappy chapters again, which again suited the pace of the book. C.C Mono impressed me with his powerful quotes and words of wisdom in the first book and I was delighted that he had continued this in The Box- I found some of these inspirational at times, so thank you C.C Mono for this!
When I began to read The Box I was eager to discover who The Box really were and what they were about- the unexpected twists and turns regarding this definatley caught he me of guard and left me feeling a sense of disbelief in places. I honestly can't wait for things to really kick off between The Box and The Academy, it is going to be phenomenal climax to the series.
To begin with Axel was the only character I felt I could trust, I was still sceptical of all the other characters. After finishing the book, I can confirm I am still wary of the characters with maybe the exception of one, Axel's love interest Nicole. I was hoping throughout that things would work out between them and it tugged on my heartstrings when things turned bad for them.
As for Axel, he was still the clever and head strong Axel I knew but I was glad to see he still had his sense of vulnerability. You really begin to see him change and adapt to the dysfunctional lifestyle he is now living. He becomes more bold and daring which left me feeling panicked for him at times! I feel though as his puppet strings continue to be pulled his character may change further and Axel may not be Axel anymore.
Which brings me on to the Puppets and Puppeteers part of the title, it sums up the Academy series perfectly. All the way through you can see how controlling certain characters are and how other characters, especially the students and the staff lower in the hierocracy are treated. I just can't wait for these puppet strings to snap- things will really take off then!
Now for my favourite part of the book, the Diamond Ball scene! I struggle to find the words to sum this scene up, but here's a few, intriguing, powerful and nail biting. C. C Mono's amazing talent for writing really brought this scene to life. All the way through the image in my head was vivid, I almost felt like I was there in the background on-looking. I was tense but focused throughout this part of the book. It was a real page turner that was fantastically written. This is when I knew the book had me in its clutches and I was disappointed every time I had to put the book down.
I loved how the past and the present came together and the link between them was easy to follow as it was in the first book. Reading both past and present I could really feel the characters tension building, they were all on edge which resulted in me becoming on edge also- again C.C Mono's talent for writing allowed this to happen.
The twists and turns throughout were exceptional. They were clever, they had me shocked in places and they had me second guessing myself throughout- I really couldn't call what would happen which is why this book was so intriguing. I was kept on my toes throughout and I loved it!
When finishing this book, I generally felt quite saddened because I really did not want it to end. The book cleverly left you in a place where you had some answers but wanted to find out so much more. Despite all the action and drama throughout, you could tell that this was only the beginning, yet the book had ended! I genuinely want my next fix now! I honestly have nothing negative to say about this book and I thank you C.C Mono for this amazing book- such a talented author who is able to captivate his readers.
July 4, 2018
This is the sequel to the truly brilliant The Academy, the first in the Eagle King Academy series. There is probably enough exposition of the events of the first book to allow the reader to start with The Box but please do yourself a favour and read The Academy first. It’s not necessary to follow the events of this book but I would hate for you to miss out! You can thank me later!
The Box continues where The Academy left off and the superb writing has lost none of its page-turner appeal. We see a little more from the perspective of the supporting cast this time around and this only adds to the development of all the diverse and intriguing characters involved. There are twists and turns amid the gripping narrative that continues to explore the darkness and the light in the psyche of the main protagonist as the thrilling events unfold.
There is a superb addition to the unique and original premise of the Academy itself with the exploration of ‘The Diamond Ball’. The author raises even his own high standards in terms of descriptive writing and compelling (at times dark and brutal) drama.
My favourite thing about the EKA books though is this: it is clear that the author has heavily researched and formed strong opinions on the concept of leadership and global politics, business and society but rather than go about sharing this in a didactic or judgemental manner, he presents different points of view and dilemmas to the characters and allows the reader to form their own opinions. This is elegantly and exquisitely done throughout.
As in the first novel, there is a sub-plot surrounding events that took place previously spread through the book. Those chapters that refer to the previous timeline enhance the readers understanding of the development of the Academy, the Box and the characters within them and the start of the chapters make the timeline clear but if you prefer your stories strictly chronological, it might detract slightly from the experience. I hope not, because this is such a rich and beautifully drawn world, it is begging you to immerse yourself within it!
The Box continues where The Academy left off and the superb writing has lost none of its page-turner appeal. We see a little more from the perspective of the supporting cast this time around and this only adds to the development of all the diverse and intriguing characters involved. There are twists and turns amid the gripping narrative that continues to explore the darkness and the light in the psyche of the main protagonist as the thrilling events unfold.
There is a superb addition to the unique and original premise of the Academy itself with the exploration of ‘The Diamond Ball’. The author raises even his own high standards in terms of descriptive writing and compelling (at times dark and brutal) drama.
My favourite thing about the EKA books though is this: it is clear that the author has heavily researched and formed strong opinions on the concept of leadership and global politics, business and society but rather than go about sharing this in a didactic or judgemental manner, he presents different points of view and dilemmas to the characters and allows the reader to form their own opinions. This is elegantly and exquisitely done throughout.
As in the first novel, there is a sub-plot surrounding events that took place previously spread through the book. Those chapters that refer to the previous timeline enhance the readers understanding of the development of the Academy, the Box and the characters within them and the start of the chapters make the timeline clear but if you prefer your stories strictly chronological, it might detract slightly from the experience. I hope not, because this is such a rich and beautifully drawn world, it is begging you to immerse yourself within it!
June 3, 2018
If you’ve read The Academy, you’ll know what I’m talking about when I say The Box is storytelling at its best. If you haven’t, read The Academy as soon as possible, because just about the only drawback I can think of about The Box is that you really want to have read The Academy first.
It’s exciting, constantly tense, bursting with “I didn’t see that coming” moments that make perfect sense in retrospect. The focus has switched from the students to the Academy staff, their “sponsors”, and their enemies, “The Box” – but Axel remains at the centre, destined surely to be either The Academy’s greatest triumph or its downfall. Axel is a wonderful character, thoroughly believable, his reactions plausible even when pushed to extremes, his personality beginning to be shaped, as any personality would, by the extraordinary events surrounding him. The Academy staff are drawn to perfection, and whilst The Box remains as secretive as ever, its personnel are moving into the light and are gratifyingly as fascinating and engaging as the rest of Mono’s creations.
The writing throughout is close to flawless and the plot is perfectly paced, never falling into a lull for longer than necessary for the reader to draw breath. There are plenty of set pieces that deserve mention, but the Diamond Ball stands out as an example to all authors of how to condense tension, character development and plot movement into one brilliantly-executed evening of surprises.
I strongly recommend this book and its predecessor to any reader who likes tension and mystery, and can’t wait for the next book in this enthralling series.
It’s exciting, constantly tense, bursting with “I didn’t see that coming” moments that make perfect sense in retrospect. The focus has switched from the students to the Academy staff, their “sponsors”, and their enemies, “The Box” – but Axel remains at the centre, destined surely to be either The Academy’s greatest triumph or its downfall. Axel is a wonderful character, thoroughly believable, his reactions plausible even when pushed to extremes, his personality beginning to be shaped, as any personality would, by the extraordinary events surrounding him. The Academy staff are drawn to perfection, and whilst The Box remains as secretive as ever, its personnel are moving into the light and are gratifyingly as fascinating and engaging as the rest of Mono’s creations.
The writing throughout is close to flawless and the plot is perfectly paced, never falling into a lull for longer than necessary for the reader to draw breath. There are plenty of set pieces that deserve mention, but the Diamond Ball stands out as an example to all authors of how to condense tension, character development and plot movement into one brilliantly-executed evening of surprises.
I strongly recommend this book and its predecessor to any reader who likes tension and mystery, and can’t wait for the next book in this enthralling series.
July 3, 2018
I don’t even know where to start… Wow!
First off, the little recap of the story from the first book at the start is brilliant. I was lucky enough to read the books back to back, but if you didn’t, this meant that you could go in without having to be trying to remember what was going on!
It continues straight on from book one and very soon you are drawn into what I can only describe as one of the best pieces of descriptive writing that I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Every part of The Diamond Ball is utterly sublime. I don’t want to spoil the experience for anyone else so all I will say is that it felt like I was there and I would give anything to see it on-screen one day.
The story has moved away a little from the rest of the students and is now focused on Axel, ‘The Box’ and how they plan to destroy The Academy. They are still being vague with Axel about their plans, but maintain that he is the lynchpin of it all. He was already conflicted as to whether to trust them, but after the events at The Diamond Ball are his allegiances being pulled in another direction entirely?
We also go back 4 years to follow the fate of another ex-student and how they had tried to escape The Academy, but what is their connection to ‘The Box’ and how will their experiences with them influence Axel in the present day?
The writing is again perfectly paced with the tension building brilliantly and all the characters a pleasure to read about. I literally cannot wait for the next book!
First off, the little recap of the story from the first book at the start is brilliant. I was lucky enough to read the books back to back, but if you didn’t, this meant that you could go in without having to be trying to remember what was going on!
It continues straight on from book one and very soon you are drawn into what I can only describe as one of the best pieces of descriptive writing that I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Every part of The Diamond Ball is utterly sublime. I don’t want to spoil the experience for anyone else so all I will say is that it felt like I was there and I would give anything to see it on-screen one day.
The story has moved away a little from the rest of the students and is now focused on Axel, ‘The Box’ and how they plan to destroy The Academy. They are still being vague with Axel about their plans, but maintain that he is the lynchpin of it all. He was already conflicted as to whether to trust them, but after the events at The Diamond Ball are his allegiances being pulled in another direction entirely?
We also go back 4 years to follow the fate of another ex-student and how they had tried to escape The Academy, but what is their connection to ‘The Box’ and how will their experiences with them influence Axel in the present day?
The writing is again perfectly paced with the tension building brilliantly and all the characters a pleasure to read about. I literally cannot wait for the next book!
June 4, 2018
Incredibly gripping novel that follows on from The Academy. This second installment in the series did not disappoint - I was unable to put it down. This followed Axel Hallman as he continued into the deep dark world of leadership and all its conspiracies and mind-games. Here Axel is less able to withstand the influence of those around him, telling him that leadership is special and important, and I admit I did not like the changes in Axel's character - however this made the novel even more realistic, as it is unbelievable to love everything about a character.
I am now eagerly awaiting the third book! I highly recommend this, although the series should definitely be read in order, so read The Academy first.
I am now eagerly awaiting the third book! I highly recommend this, although the series should definitely be read in order, so read The Academy first.
June 27, 2018
The box by C C Mono.
A few years after Sarah Wangai vanished, Hayato Sano graduated from the Eagle King’s Academy. Two days later, he disappeared.
Axel faces his greatest challenge yet when he and his fellow students attend the most extravagant party of the year – the Diamond. The students are forced to test their skills against the world’s foremost elite. But the games Axel play turn treacherous, and soon he finds himself playing for his life.
Meanwhile, The Box is stepping out of the shadows. No one knows they’re coming, no one but Axel.
An absolutely fantastic read. I loved the story and the characters. Axel is still my favourite character. I do hope there is more to come from Axel and the academy. 5*. Highly recommended.
A few years after Sarah Wangai vanished, Hayato Sano graduated from the Eagle King’s Academy. Two days later, he disappeared.
Axel faces his greatest challenge yet when he and his fellow students attend the most extravagant party of the year – the Diamond. The students are forced to test their skills against the world’s foremost elite. But the games Axel play turn treacherous, and soon he finds himself playing for his life.
Meanwhile, The Box is stepping out of the shadows. No one knows they’re coming, no one but Axel.
An absolutely fantastic read. I loved the story and the characters. Axel is still my favourite character. I do hope there is more to come from Axel and the academy. 5*. Highly recommended.
July 11, 2018
This second book in the series maintained the same level of excitement as the first.
Revealing more about the past as well as about The Box, that is waiting to ruin the academy, this book has some unbelievable scenarios.
Axel is most often caught between the fire and the frying pan and it doesn't seem like there is anyone who can be trusted.
With the new year starting with challenges, the next book promises more suspense.
Revealing more about the past as well as about The Box, that is waiting to ruin the academy, this book has some unbelievable scenarios.
Axel is most often caught between the fire and the frying pan and it doesn't seem like there is anyone who can be trusted.
With the new year starting with challenges, the next book promises more suspense.
July 21, 2018
A worthy sequel.
A very clever plot that starts at the end of the first book in the series. Multiple stories woven together in a fascinating pattern that will hold you in a tight grip from the first page to the end, building up to a full crescendo of excitement over what will come next. I can't wait until C.C. Monö will release the third book.
A very clever plot that starts at the end of the first book in the series. Multiple stories woven together in a fascinating pattern that will hold you in a tight grip from the first page to the end, building up to a full crescendo of excitement over what will come next. I can't wait until C.C. Monö will release the third book.
July 23, 2018
Truly brilliant from start to finish. Hard to put down and along with the intrigue of the academy and the box some very dark moments are expertly captured. t
Thank you. Can't wait for the next book!
Thank you. Can't wait for the next book!
July 12, 2018
Wow, this book stepped it up a notch from the first book, indeed! I am not entirely sure that I drew a full breath for the entire time I was reading it.
Axel is back and the mystery of what happened to one of the former students has been resolved but what about the other one? No-one gets to walk away from The Academy. After all, they are promising their students the world.....
The night when Axel goes to the Diamond Ball will stay in my memory bank for a very long time. This author clearly has a very vivid imagination and I could see the whole scenario in my mind's eye. So many heart-stopping moments!
Things are changing and there are people who aren't all that happy with what is happening at The Academy. Which way will Axel go? Will he ever be the same after The Academy is through with him?
5 well deserved stars for this book. Can't wait until I read the next one!
Axel is back and the mystery of what happened to one of the former students has been resolved but what about the other one? No-one gets to walk away from The Academy. After all, they are promising their students the world.....
The night when Axel goes to the Diamond Ball will stay in my memory bank for a very long time. This author clearly has a very vivid imagination and I could see the whole scenario in my mind's eye. So many heart-stopping moments!
Things are changing and there are people who aren't all that happy with what is happening at The Academy. Which way will Axel go? Will he ever be the same after The Academy is through with him?
5 well deserved stars for this book. Can't wait until I read the next one!
June 14, 2018
Having read the first in this series, The Academy, I couldn’t wait to read this one. It is simply brilliant. Second books can be dull and repetitive, going over old ground and almost a chore to read. I was delighted to find The Box: Puppets and Puppeteers was none of these. This book doesn’t go over old ground but does give insight into the workings of EKA and its previous students whilst also continuing the journey of the present students. The description of The Diamond Ball was second to none and I could almost taste and feel it! I am hoping that book 3 is well underway as CC Monö is fast becoming one of my favourite authors.
June 18, 2018
Well, what can I say? I thoroughly enjoyed The Academy, to the point that I was wondering if CC Mono could pull it off again in this second book in the series. But he most certainly didn’t disappoint with The Box!
The brief summary of the previous book was a helpful refresher as it’s been a while since I read The Academy. Then, seamlessly, the second book took off in earnest….and boy did it take off! We pick back up with the story, but this time concentrating more on Axel and ‘The Box’ and their plans to bring down The Academy. The descriptive writing of ‘The Diamond Ball’ is, quite simply, exquisite but not to the detriment of continuing the intrigue and the suspense of the ongoing game-playing under the watchful eye of ‘The Hostess’.
It was genuinely a joy to read this book and I can’t wait for the next book in the series and to see where this takes us next. If I could give this more than 5 stars I would!
The brief summary of the previous book was a helpful refresher as it’s been a while since I read The Academy. Then, seamlessly, the second book took off in earnest….and boy did it take off! We pick back up with the story, but this time concentrating more on Axel and ‘The Box’ and their plans to bring down The Academy. The descriptive writing of ‘The Diamond Ball’ is, quite simply, exquisite but not to the detriment of continuing the intrigue and the suspense of the ongoing game-playing under the watchful eye of ‘The Hostess’.
It was genuinely a joy to read this book and I can’t wait for the next book in the series and to see where this takes us next. If I could give this more than 5 stars I would!
July 3, 2018
I was expecting this, the sequel to The Academy, to conclude the series, so was disappointed to be left dangling on the edge by this book yet again. My fault. I should have realised this was more than a two-book series. I loved the sheer spectacle, the magic and the pace, and was left wanting more. The Box was part action adventure, part high drama and part love story. The stunningly weird and wonderful Diamond Ball was totally brilliant. How petrifying, intriguing and challenging it must have been to be there! This book is worth reading for the ball scenes alone. I became a little confused about our hero, Axel. Having felt I knew and understood him in The Academy, I found myself wondering whether I’d been totally wrong about him all along. Is power starting to get to him? I guess I’ll just have to wait for the next book to find out!
June 13, 2018
Woooow!! Just wow. I’ve been waiting for this ever since I finished The Academy, and my expectations were waaaaay up there. And Monö delivers. My god. Not only do the characters evolve beautifully with the twisting plot line, but you also get a sense of the author having a lot of fun with his made up world in a playful way. I loved how we move from day-to-day stuff in The Academy to more sinister twists and turns and also philosophical conundrums. This is the perfect holiday read, highly entertaining while it makes you think. The characters bloom in sync with the story in a credible way, the scenes are perfectly constructed and the dialogue feels true to the bone.
It’s high paced, intelligent, fun and cleverly done, and I can’t wait for the third part if the series!
It’s high paced, intelligent, fun and cleverly done, and I can’t wait for the third part if the series!
July 1, 2018
This is the second in the series after the Academy.
I loved the first and this book took the characters and the plot further, faster and in a more chilling direction.
The base of the plot is the mysterious academy where the leaders of the future are trained. They are ruthless and have no honour. So close to what could be the truth its a bit frightening but this book takes us to places and had me rushing to finish so I could find out what happened. Hurry up with the sequel!
I loved the first and this book took the characters and the plot further, faster and in a more chilling direction.
The base of the plot is the mysterious academy where the leaders of the future are trained. They are ruthless and have no honour. So close to what could be the truth its a bit frightening but this book takes us to places and had me rushing to finish so I could find out what happened. Hurry up with the sequel!
July 30, 2018
I really enjoyed The Academy and was looking forward to reading this book. I found it drew me in just as quickly as The Academy did. It shows Axel in a different light to how we have seen him before. I am not sure how much I liked this Axel but his portrayal has certainly left me wanting more of this series.
June 14, 2018
I read this book after absolutely loving The Academy and the second book in this series did not disappoint. I love the pace of the books and how we got to see another side of Axel a softer side in his relationship with Nicole. The conspiracy that is surrounding him in the Academy is now starting to pick up momentum and we are gaining insight to who surrounding Axel is actually involved.
This is a book that I struggled to put down as I wanted to just keep reading and picked up at every opportunity I got eager to see where the story would take us next and who the moles in The Academy would turn out to be.
A brilliant second book to this series and I eagerly await the next book as I want to know what happens next!
This is a book that I struggled to put down as I wanted to just keep reading and picked up at every opportunity I got eager to see where the story would take us next and who the moles in The Academy would turn out to be.
A brilliant second book to this series and I eagerly await the next book as I want to know what happens next!
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