What do you think?
The Zero Enigma #6
The Family Pride
Six years ago, in the aftermath of the House War that nearly tore Shallot apart, Akin Rubén and Caitlyn Aguirre were betrothed in a bid to keep their rival families from returning to war. Now, with both of them on the brink of maturity, that marriage is starting to loom. The moment of choice, when they must decide to go through with the wedding or risk their families resuming their rivalry, is fast approaching.
And yet, all is not well in House Rubén. Akin, the presumed Heir Primus, has many enemies, relatives who will do anything rather than see him succeed his father and link their families to their former rivals. Powerful factions are gathering, ready to oppose the match by any means necessary. Secrets from the past are being dug up and turned into weapons, just waiting to be launched. In desperation, Lord Rubén - Akin’s father - forces his son to enter the Challenge - a contest that will either prove his right to inherit or utterly destroy him.
But the Challenge is not quite what it seems ...
And yet, all is not well in House Rubén. Akin, the presumed Heir Primus, has many enemies, relatives who will do anything rather than see him succeed his father and link their families to their former rivals. Powerful factions are gathering, ready to oppose the match by any means necessary. Secrets from the past are being dug up and turned into weapons, just waiting to be launched. In desperation, Lord Rubén - Akin’s father - forces his son to enter the Challenge - a contest that will either prove his right to inherit or utterly destroy him.
But the Challenge is not quite what it seems ...
- GenresFantasyYoung Adult
436 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 24, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
August 15, 2019
Awesome book!
What an awesome continuation of the Zero Enigma series! I simply ADORE this series! Lovable protagonists and villains you love to hate, yet are forced to understand their motivations. I cannot wait for the next one. I understand why pre pubescents would make fun of Christopher's last name, but their was a guy in my Army unit named Nuttall and such insults didn't occur to any of us. Basic training WAS tough. My drill sergeants HATED me because I went to Airborne School as an ROTC cadet and only one of them was airborne qualified(paratrooper qualified). They hated that I was able to wear my wings while their uniforms were bare. I caught more abuse than everyone else COMBINED from having to do physical training in front of the whole company to having the contents of my locker thrown all over the place. I was also ostracized by my platoon mates. But at least I wasn't 12 like Christopher! I can't imagine THAT hell. I went to Catholic school myself and corporal punishment WAS allowed. Anyone who has gotten a ruler across the knuckles or the paddle can sympathize. If I got in trouble at school, I got in trouble at home too. Also corporal punishment. Anyway, read this series. You won't regret it! Keep churning out the awesome stories, Christopher!
What an awesome continuation of the Zero Enigma series! I simply ADORE this series! Lovable protagonists and villains you love to hate, yet are forced to understand their motivations. I cannot wait for the next one. I understand why pre pubescents would make fun of Christopher's last name, but their was a guy in my Army unit named Nuttall and such insults didn't occur to any of us. Basic training WAS tough. My drill sergeants HATED me because I went to Airborne School as an ROTC cadet and only one of them was airborne qualified(paratrooper qualified). They hated that I was able to wear my wings while their uniforms were bare. I caught more abuse than everyone else COMBINED from having to do physical training in front of the whole company to having the contents of my locker thrown all over the place. I was also ostracized by my platoon mates. But at least I wasn't 12 like Christopher! I can't imagine THAT hell. I went to Catholic school myself and corporal punishment WAS allowed. Anyone who has gotten a ruler across the knuckles or the paddle can sympathize. If I got in trouble at school, I got in trouble at home too. Also corporal punishment. Anyway, read this series. You won't regret it! Keep churning out the awesome stories, Christopher!
August 4, 2019
Starts slow but there’s a lot of action in the second half. Cat only appears twice, for a few pages, and Rose not much more. Point of view is Akin at age 17. The author promises another book in the series.
Readable but not as much fun as the first three in the series. I haven’t read more than the free preview of books 4 and 5 and didn’t have any problems reading this book, didn’t spot anything that might be a spoiler either.
As an afterword the author includes an essay he wrote about how bad boarding schools usually are, from his own experience starting with age 12.
Readable but not as much fun as the first three in the series. I haven’t read more than the free preview of books 4 and 5 and didn’t have any problems reading this book, didn’t spot anything that might be a spoiler either.
As an afterword the author includes an essay he wrote about how bad boarding schools usually are, from his own experience starting with age 12.
March 6, 2021
Great book
Another great installment in his zero enigma series. I really like how it is shown from a different character’s perspective.
Another great installment in his zero enigma series. I really like how it is shown from a different character’s perspective.
July 30, 2019
A decent addition to the series, but very slow to start, I thought.
Part of the problem was that Akin was find as a supporting character, but as a lead was as dull as dishwater. It took a long time to build him up and add enough conflict for him to be interesting.
Nonetheless, it completes the schooling era well enough and sets the scene for future stories in the series, which I'm enjoying as a whole. I actually like that Chris (the author) has focussed on other characters after the first trilogy - it opens up an entire universe of possibilities (though I want to hear more about Cat, as well as Isabella's secret Zero).
Final verdict: not the strongest in the series, but sets the scene for more to come.
Part of the problem was that Akin was find as a supporting character, but as a lead was as dull as dishwater. It took a long time to build him up and add enough conflict for him to be interesting.
Nonetheless, it completes the schooling era well enough and sets the scene for future stories in the series, which I'm enjoying as a whole. I actually like that Chris (the author) has focussed on other characters after the first trilogy - it opens up an entire universe of possibilities (though I want to hear more about Cat, as well as Isabella's secret Zero).
Final verdict: not the strongest in the series, but sets the scene for more to come.
August 14, 2019
Author's personal experience comes through with shocking effect
This book is based on his personal experience which is shocking and stunning in many ways. It is likely the best in the series to date. I always thought, based on my public school experience, I would never send my children if I had any through public school lets alone a prison boarding school. I vaguely recall even summer camp with no escape no freedom and no downtime was exhausting. Maybe some of it changes us for the better realizing how dangerous things can be for youngsters away from the nest but it can warp us mentally and emotionally for life as impressionable as we are when we are young.
This book is based on his personal experience which is shocking and stunning in many ways. It is likely the best in the series to date. I always thought, based on my public school experience, I would never send my children if I had any through public school lets alone a prison boarding school. I vaguely recall even summer camp with no escape no freedom and no downtime was exhausting. Maybe some of it changes us for the better realizing how dangerous things can be for youngsters away from the nest but it can warp us mentally and emotionally for life as impressionable as we are when we are young.
August 11, 2019
I thought this book was well conceived and consistent. This is despite the fact that his boarding school culture and mine couldn't be more opposite. I don't much care for Akin, but he is consistent with the culture Nuttall has created. I liked the plot, but would like to have seen more of his sister and Cat. I liked both of the girl on his team, but for different reasons. They certainly are characters enough for being featured in future books. A lot of readers, but not all, will like it, I think.
August 12, 2019
I continue to enjoy the Zero Enigma series, and I look forward to more installments. Christopher Nuttall is one of my favorite authors, and this particular series has become one of my favorites. The characters are interesting and well developed, and I appreciate the way we are privy to their thoughts as they consider the moral and philosophical implications of their circumstances, decisions, and actions. The relationships and interactions are realistic and instructive. And as always, Christopher's writing is engaging and enjoyable.
August 23, 2019
Irresistible series!
As usual I started the latest book in this series thinking it would be impossible for the writer to catch me again and was proven wrong, again. I found myself so quickly drawn into the world of the main character it was impossible not to finish the book in one go. In other words, if you have a soft spot for anything to do with magic and a critical look at the society we live in, Christopher Nuttal’s books will bring you a lot of reading pleasure. As long as you make sure you actually have the time to finish what you started!
As usual I started the latest book in this series thinking it would be impossible for the writer to catch me again and was proven wrong, again. I found myself so quickly drawn into the world of the main character it was impossible not to finish the book in one go. In other words, if you have a soft spot for anything to do with magic and a critical look at the society we live in, Christopher Nuttal’s books will bring you a lot of reading pleasure. As long as you make sure you actually have the time to finish what you started!
August 29, 2019
A non-Cat episode in the series.
The book 6 in the series is yet another non-Cat story, even though she features in it. It's an exploration in the lives of the aristocracy of that world, and the weight of expectations that come with inheritance in noble families. Oh, and a stark reminder that all those magical boarding schools are absolute bonkers deathtraps for students.
I hope we get back to more Cat-oriented storylines. But I have to assume the search for another Zero will probably be first.
The book 6 in the series is yet another non-Cat story, even though she features in it. It's an exploration in the lives of the aristocracy of that world, and the weight of expectations that come with inheritance in noble families. Oh, and a stark reminder that all those magical boarding schools are absolute bonkers deathtraps for students.
I hope we get back to more Cat-oriented storylines. But I have to assume the search for another Zero will probably be first.
August 1, 2019
Excellant
I mindful this book with another one in the series and said I had listened to the audio book which is not yet available but which I will purchase as soon as I can
I am following four series which are all excellent . I try to buy as each book cones out the kindle book the audio book and the paper version when available. I highly recommend these books not only for the action story line but also for the educational bits hidden in the books.
I mindful this book with another one in the series and said I had listened to the audio book which is not yet available but which I will purchase as soon as I can
I am following four series which are all excellent . I try to buy as each book cones out the kindle book the audio book and the paper version when available. I highly recommend these books not only for the action story line but also for the educational bits hidden in the books.
August 4, 2019
An excellent coming of age
I was eager to read this book as soon as I saw it. It continued a story line about characters whom I had cared about. It definitely must follow the first 3 books in the series, or the reader misses too many references, but I don't think I was missing anything for not having read the 4th and 5th books. It made me want to read them, as well, because the author creates such engaging characters.
I was eager to read this book as soon as I saw it. It continued a story line about characters whom I had cared about. It definitely must follow the first 3 books in the series, or the reader misses too many references, but I don't think I was missing anything for not having read the 4th and 5th books. It made me want to read them, as well, because the author creates such engaging characters.
September 2, 2019
Enjoyed the book, liked the ending
A lot of books will try for the endings where everyone wins. Life is not quite like that. There is often a cost to even the winner for winning in real life. Though the main character had a tendency to "care" more than I thought he would have for those under his athority, it was still more to "life" than most stories now days. Good guys won this round, bad guys down for the count. Again, enjoyed the book.
A lot of books will try for the endings where everyone wins. Life is not quite like that. There is often a cost to even the winner for winning in real life. Though the main character had a tendency to "care" more than I thought he would have for those under his athority, it was still more to "life" than most stories now days. Good guys won this round, bad guys down for the count. Again, enjoyed the book.
July 27, 2019
Another great novel!
Thank you for another installment in the Zero Enigma series. I loved reading from Akin's point of view. I hope we get another book from Cat's POV soon.
And I also enjoyed reading your afterword. Thank you for sharing that. And as always, I hope your health improves.
Thank you for another installment in the Zero Enigma series. I loved reading from Akin's point of view. I hope we get another book from Cat's POV soon.
And I also enjoyed reading your afterword. Thank you for sharing that. And as always, I hope your health improves.
August 19, 2019
Still good
I like this author, and especially his wise comments and observations on life. This story line however expected you to recollect all the other stories and actors in this series. I would have appreciated a reminder of at least a sentence or two as each new-to-this-book actor entered the scene.
I like this author, and especially his wise comments and observations on life. This story line however expected you to recollect all the other stories and actors in this series. I would have appreciated a reminder of at least a sentence or two as each new-to-this-book actor entered the scene.
August 16, 2019
story evolves
I'm glad 6 years have passed.
It can get e bit tedious to read same story in different books.
I particularly enjoyed the hints of other things happening up north and Cat's cryptic words at the end ...
I'm glad 6 years have passed.
It can get e bit tedious to read same story in different books.
I particularly enjoyed the hints of other things happening up north and Cat's cryptic words at the end ...
September 23, 2022
Book 6 in the series returns to the Family Ruben, but this time the other twin, Akin. We have travelled forward roughly 6yrs in time at the start of this book, so it is the final year of their time at Jude’s. At the start of this book, we are brought up to speed on all of the events in a very clever conversation between Akin and his Father, Lord Ruben, and at the same time, we are also given the basic summary for the book. Akin will be made Head Boy for his final year, regardless of if wants to be or not.
But this is not Akin has other problems going forward this year. His betrothal to Caitlyn Aguirre will come when he and Caitlyn both reach adulthood, something that will happen when they both graduate and is fast approaching. Whilst Caitlyn’s position is safe relatively speaking due to her position as the only Zero, Akin’s position in his family as the Heir Primus is not so safe. Numerous enemies have gathered over the years, since the end of the House War, all ready to oppose his position as Heir Primus and their upcoming wedding. As a result, Akin’s Father forces him to enter the Challenge, a contest held at Jude’s. The Challenge is meant to be a test to show that young challengers understand how politics and family dynamics operate, business acumen, so that the winner, can go onto greater things. The event can be played individually, but is far better when played with a team. However, one must be careful that you only use people who don’t breach the rules of their patronages.
Akin quickly learns that his final year at Jude’s is going to be complicated, and intense, as he has to share the Head Job with none other than Alana Aguirre. Things have changed over 6yrs though, and their relationship has grown, with Alana having matured into a clever, intelligent and powerful young woman.
We are introduced to several new characters in this book, Francis, Akin’s cousin, who is the head of sports for Upper Classman, and basically Akin’s righthand man. There is Akin’s younger cousin by 2yrs, Penny, who is a rather superior young woman, who having just reaching Upper Classman, believe it is her role to torture the Junior Classman.
As Akin searches for teammates for his Challenge team, he chooses two girls in their year. The first is Louise, a common born girl who has a chip on her shoulder and whilst highly intelligent, everyone dislikes her as she is constantly berating them about how terrible the Aristocracy are. The second is Selena, once a very powerful student, but recently has become rather slow in her magic, and is now considered a bit of a dullard, although still a lovely girl.
As we follow Akin through this story, we meet a multitude of other characters that I won’t spoil (although I will give a shoutout to Adam Mortiner, a common born student who takes on the Challenge as well, and is the focus of Book 7), but are all equally brilliant. Nuttall creates a stunning array of characters in this series, be they student, teacher, family or just filler (as in someone in a shop), all are exceptionally well crafted, with so much depth and detail, each one adding something to the story and leaving a lasting impression on you. The wonderful thing about this series, is that you come across characters (such as Adam Mortimer), and a book later they are a major character with this incredible story and background.
As with all of these books, this series has just the most enchanting and engaging world building. You get lost in these breathtaking backdrops, and exquisite descriptions that Nuttall brings to life with creative ease. There is so much depth and complexity to each of these stories, they are beautifully told and just a joy to read.
This series just keeps getting better with every book, there is this complex story that keeps unfolding, each book a new chapter in an over-arching story that Nuttall has obviously put a lot of thought into. It is wonderful that each book is not just a flow-on as such, but a different view from a new character’s perspective, giving us insight into the overall view of the entire story, not just a central character. It makes the story so much more engaging and intriguing. The great thing about this book, is that because it is 6yrs later, and from Akin’s perspective, we also get the perspective of so many of the other characters we have read as well (such as Caitlyn, Isabella etc). This is easily one of my favourite stories in the series so far, and I find that Akin is one of my favourite characters, if nothing else, just because of his humility.
This is an outstanding series, and as I have said, this was an exceptional part in it – one not to be missed!!
But this is not Akin has other problems going forward this year. His betrothal to Caitlyn Aguirre will come when he and Caitlyn both reach adulthood, something that will happen when they both graduate and is fast approaching. Whilst Caitlyn’s position is safe relatively speaking due to her position as the only Zero, Akin’s position in his family as the Heir Primus is not so safe. Numerous enemies have gathered over the years, since the end of the House War, all ready to oppose his position as Heir Primus and their upcoming wedding. As a result, Akin’s Father forces him to enter the Challenge, a contest held at Jude’s. The Challenge is meant to be a test to show that young challengers understand how politics and family dynamics operate, business acumen, so that the winner, can go onto greater things. The event can be played individually, but is far better when played with a team. However, one must be careful that you only use people who don’t breach the rules of their patronages.
Akin quickly learns that his final year at Jude’s is going to be complicated, and intense, as he has to share the Head Job with none other than Alana Aguirre. Things have changed over 6yrs though, and their relationship has grown, with Alana having matured into a clever, intelligent and powerful young woman.
We are introduced to several new characters in this book, Francis, Akin’s cousin, who is the head of sports for Upper Classman, and basically Akin’s righthand man. There is Akin’s younger cousin by 2yrs, Penny, who is a rather superior young woman, who having just reaching Upper Classman, believe it is her role to torture the Junior Classman.
As Akin searches for teammates for his Challenge team, he chooses two girls in their year. The first is Louise, a common born girl who has a chip on her shoulder and whilst highly intelligent, everyone dislikes her as she is constantly berating them about how terrible the Aristocracy are. The second is Selena, once a very powerful student, but recently has become rather slow in her magic, and is now considered a bit of a dullard, although still a lovely girl.
As we follow Akin through this story, we meet a multitude of other characters that I won’t spoil (although I will give a shoutout to Adam Mortiner, a common born student who takes on the Challenge as well, and is the focus of Book 7), but are all equally brilliant. Nuttall creates a stunning array of characters in this series, be they student, teacher, family or just filler (as in someone in a shop), all are exceptionally well crafted, with so much depth and detail, each one adding something to the story and leaving a lasting impression on you. The wonderful thing about this series, is that you come across characters (such as Adam Mortimer), and a book later they are a major character with this incredible story and background.
As with all of these books, this series has just the most enchanting and engaging world building. You get lost in these breathtaking backdrops, and exquisite descriptions that Nuttall brings to life with creative ease. There is so much depth and complexity to each of these stories, they are beautifully told and just a joy to read.
This series just keeps getting better with every book, there is this complex story that keeps unfolding, each book a new chapter in an over-arching story that Nuttall has obviously put a lot of thought into. It is wonderful that each book is not just a flow-on as such, but a different view from a new character’s perspective, giving us insight into the overall view of the entire story, not just a central character. It makes the story so much more engaging and intriguing. The great thing about this book, is that because it is 6yrs later, and from Akin’s perspective, we also get the perspective of so many of the other characters we have read as well (such as Caitlyn, Isabella etc). This is easily one of my favourite stories in the series so far, and I find that Akin is one of my favourite characters, if nothing else, just because of his humility.
This is an outstanding series, and as I have said, this was an exceptional part in it – one not to be missed!!
August 27, 2025
In this book, we switch from following Cat to following her fiance, Akin through his tenure as Head Boy and his attempt to win The Challenge.
Akin is studious and smart, but there is some question as to whether he has the character traits necessary to remain the Heir Primus of his house. Akin's father sees The Challenge as a way for Akin to demonstrate his abilities to the rest of his House.
Akin is an interesting choice for protagonist. He is more self-reflective and sensitive than most of his peers and must resolve the conflicts between his personality and his duties. Nuttall presents this dilemma well, giving us a character that is sympathetic and believable. The supporting characters are complex and varied, especially including Cat's sister (who has been named Head Girl), and Akin's cousins, who have their own significant issues.
The plot is compelling and well-paced, presenting many significant challenges, but challanges that are appropriate for the characters and setting. The action scenes are written well -- easy to understand and without dei ex machina. The resolution to the story is appropriate for the problem presented and for the society of the story.
Note that I consumed this book on audio, and the narrator is the same as for previous volumes. I was momentarily skeptical about the use of a female narrator for a first-person male protagonist, but within minutes, I was subsumed into the story flow and didn't notice any issues. Saskia Maarleveld does an excellent job with this book (as she has with previous books in the series.)
I've liked this series since I started reading it, and this might be the best book so far. Highly recommended.
Akin is studious and smart, but there is some question as to whether he has the character traits necessary to remain the Heir Primus of his house. Akin's father sees The Challenge as a way for Akin to demonstrate his abilities to the rest of his House.
Akin is an interesting choice for protagonist. He is more self-reflective and sensitive than most of his peers and must resolve the conflicts between his personality and his duties. Nuttall presents this dilemma well, giving us a character that is sympathetic and believable. The supporting characters are complex and varied, especially including Cat's sister (who has been named Head Girl), and Akin's cousins, who have their own significant issues.
The plot is compelling and well-paced, presenting many significant challenges, but challanges that are appropriate for the characters and setting. The action scenes are written well -- easy to understand and without dei ex machina. The resolution to the story is appropriate for the problem presented and for the society of the story.
Note that I consumed this book on audio, and the narrator is the same as for previous volumes. I was momentarily skeptical about the use of a female narrator for a first-person male protagonist, but within minutes, I was subsumed into the story flow and didn't notice any issues. Saskia Maarleveld does an excellent job with this book (as she has with previous books in the series.)
I've liked this series since I started reading it, and this might be the best book so far. Highly recommended.
May 1, 2022
Best book I have read on why bulling should be stopped
There is not much I didn't like about this book. It addressed the very real results of billing and it explains clearly why manners are important. It also shows why vendettas are destructive and carrying hate forward only hurts you. Plus its a interesting story written about magic and in a sense it can be related to money. Finally it still recognizes that life is not fair and people generally put there own interests first.
There is not much I didn't like about this book. It addressed the very real results of billing and it explains clearly why manners are important. It also shows why vendettas are destructive and carrying hate forward only hurts you. Plus its a interesting story written about magic and in a sense it can be related to money. Finally it still recognizes that life is not fair and people generally put there own interests first.
February 29, 2020
A solid addition to the series!
The book started a little slowly but once the plot got rolling I was hooked. I like that this book reminds you that childhood is not all sweetness and light and that turmoil exists behind even the nicest doors. I will be moving on to the next in the series immediately!
The book started a little slowly but once the plot got rolling I was hooked. I like that this book reminds you that childhood is not all sweetness and light and that turmoil exists behind even the nicest doors. I will be moving on to the next in the series immediately!
April 15, 2020
Excellent read.
Every book by this author that I have read have been great and imaginatively drawn stories. I think it is 9 so far. My husband turned my attention to this author, and got me to try his novels. Well worth the time to read. Start with the first of this series. Makes the twists and turns of the plots easier to unravel.
Every book by this author that I have read have been great and imaginatively drawn stories. I think it is 9 so far. My husband turned my attention to this author, and got me to try his novels. Well worth the time to read. Start with the first of this series. Makes the twists and turns of the plots easier to unravel.
March 9, 2020
The book was good… the afterword was better. ;-)
I think the author relived some of the best and worst of his boarding school days. I don't think he got everything perfect… but he did show that we could do better. I regret that I have but five stars to give to this book.
I think the author relived some of the best and worst of his boarding school days. I don't think he got everything perfect… but he did show that we could do better. I regret that I have but five stars to give to this book.
June 10, 2020
Been away from this series for a while as I read the Schooled in Magic series - big Christopher Nuttall fantasy series fan - but got straight back into it.
Love the series and thoroughly enjoyed this book, looking forward to the next in both series.
Love the series and thoroughly enjoyed this book, looking forward to the next in both series.
November 18, 2020
Best of the series, so far.
Really enjoyed this book. Well written with realistic and intelligent characters dealing with difficult problems. Not a "plot driven by character stupidity" book as was some of the earlier books.
Really enjoyed this book. Well written with realistic and intelligent characters dealing with difficult problems. Not a "plot driven by character stupidity" book as was some of the earlier books.
Read
May 15, 2021This is a great book I just finished it. The zero enigma is a great series. But I was looking at the next two books and they focus on new characters should I read the books in order or skip to book 9?
June 23, 2021
It started out a bit slow so I kept putting it aside in favor of other books I was reading. About half way through things started to get interesting. IMO, not one of his best books but I am looking forward to reading the rest of this series.
December 13, 2020
A Character Study
Well presented rite of passage of a boy finding out both the duties, obligations and burdens of becoming a man in a position of power.
Well presented rite of passage of a boy finding out both the duties, obligations and burdens of becoming a man in a position of power.
December 24, 2020
A good read
He latest in the Enigma world and a well thought out plot with a number of unexpected twists. Highly recommended.
He latest in the Enigma world and a well thought out plot with a number of unexpected twists. Highly recommended.
July 31, 2021
Another good book
I always enjoy c. Nuttalls books they are one of my favourite escapes. I like how this series shows other characters points of view.
I always enjoy c. Nuttalls books they are one of my favourite escapes. I like how this series shows other characters points of view.
March 1, 2022
A Great Story Teller
The author makes the difficult and unfair Magic boarding school real and believable. The characters are complex and come to life.
Good read
The author makes the difficult and unfair Magic boarding school real and believable. The characters are complex and come to life.
Good read
May 21, 2026
3.5 stars I'm glad Akin did what he had to do.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews