The second installment in the Relics Adventure Series has Ivan returning to the mystical forest, when his brother, Peter, doesn't come home.
Between the ratlings, the vaguers and the trolls, his troubles are just beginning. Sebastian, the spirit in the Long Dark Cloak, has his healing powers working overtime, just to keep up.
Ivan has his hands full, struggling with sarcastic cats, flying horses, and a goddess that has his heart all aflutter. Throw in a dejected dragon and a witch accused of murder, and his journey is fraught with danger, mystery, and the knowledge that someone is hell-bent to destroy him.
A 399 page Young Adult fantasy novel. Second book of the Relics series.
This is a well written novel dealing with a young man living alone on a farm outside a forest. His brother has not returned home as expected and the young boy (Ivan) sets out to find him by entering the dangerous forest.
The story flows smoothly which results in a relaxing easy read. There is plenty of adventure, drama and intensity to keep the reader turning pages. The missing brother is not the only undertaking Ivan is saddled with. There are missing relics (Hence, the series name) that he needs to locate and return to the Sanctuary of Truth located inside a Giant Oak.
Essence seeking Vaguers, ravenous ratlings and evil tempered trolls cause Ivan and his forest friends all types of trouble as they attempt to locate Ivan’s brother, the missing relic and any evidence they can find that might help free a witch accused of murder. A cantankerous dragon, flying horses and crabby cat are also in the mix.
This is a good read, as was “The Long Dark Cloak”.
I've read a lot of books written for this age group, and most times they fall short.
Why? Because kids' brains are sponges. What better way to, within the context of a forward-moving adventure story, impart some of life's lessons, teach about how people should treat each other, and stress the importance of trusting family relationships?
This series is all that and more. I was drawn in the most with the well-drawn, and sometimes conflicting characters, each with their own set of goals. The plot is solid. The setting inventive. Vicki Thomas does an amazing job of making it all work!
Author Vicki Thomas writes a delightful book filled with adventure. Ivan, a young boy, sets out to find his brother by entering the dangerous forest. If you enjoy fantasy, you will not be able to put the book down as you meet a variety of magical characters. Some will befriend Ivan, while others become threats to our would be hero’s desperate need to save those in need. You won’t want to miss this second book in the Relic Series.
What a delightful journey! I can hardly wait for the the third book in the series. I was hooked in book one, but now I can hardly wait for Ivan to return to the forest as he gets more involved with the incredible cast of magical characters. I am loving this adventure. Good for all ages.