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Dreamhouse Kings #6
Frenzy
Their destiny is to fix history. Their dream is to get home.
When you live in a house that's really a gateway between past and present, you have to be ready for "anything." It's a painful fact the Kings have faced since moving to Pinedale eight days ago. Desperately trying to rescue their mother from an unknown time and place, brothers Xander and David have lunged headlong into the chaos of history's greatest--and most volatile--events. But their goal has continually escaped their grasp.
And worse: Finding Mom is only a small part of what they must do, thanks to the barbaric Taksidian. His ruthless quest to sieze their house and its power from them has put not only the family, but all of mankind, in grave danger.
Somehow, the key to it all hinges on Uncle Jesse's words to the boys: "Fixing time is what our family was made to do." But how can they fix a world that has been turned updisde down--much less ever find their way home?
At long last, the secrets of the house and the King family are revealed in the stunning conclusion to this epic series.
When you live in a house that's really a gateway between past and present, you have to be ready for "anything." It's a painful fact the Kings have faced since moving to Pinedale eight days ago. Desperately trying to rescue their mother from an unknown time and place, brothers Xander and David have lunged headlong into the chaos of history's greatest--and most volatile--events. But their goal has continually escaped their grasp.
And worse: Finding Mom is only a small part of what they must do, thanks to the barbaric Taksidian. His ruthless quest to sieze their house and its power from them has put not only the family, but all of mankind, in grave danger.
Somehow, the key to it all hinges on Uncle Jesse's words to the boys: "Fixing time is what our family was made to do." But how can they fix a world that has been turned updisde down--much less ever find their way home?
At long last, the secrets of the house and the King family are revealed in the stunning conclusion to this epic series.
340 pages, Hardcover
First published May 18, 2010
46 people are currently reading
1810 people want to read
About the author
Robert Liparulo
32 books798 followersRobert Liparulo's novels, Comes a Horseman, Germ, Deadfall Deadlock, The 13th Tribe, and The Judgment Stone,have received rave reviews. His short story "Kill Zone" is included in the anthology Thriller, edited by James Patterson. He is also the author of the best-selling young adult series DREAMHOUSE KINGS: House of Dark Shadows, Watcher in the Woods, Gatekeepers, Timescape, Whirlwind, and Frenzy. Robert lives in Colorado with his family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
October 31, 2012
Reasons why the Dreamhouse Kings series is PERFECT:
1. Family - The bond between the kids and parents is huge. While Mom (Gee) and Dad (Ed) both hold reasonable parental roles, they at times seem to have a good grip on their own youth when it comes to adventuring with their kids. And those kids, Xander (15), David (12), and Toria (9) are siblings the way kids should be. Sure they can get on each others nerves at times, but they stick together through thick and more thick (because there is no 'thin' in the Kings lives). Additional characters like Jessie, Nana, and Keal (some of which aren't even related by blood) easily become a part of the King family once introduced into the story. This is a loving family, welcoming with open arms. Even though you sense this awesome bond early on, by the end of the series it couldn't be more evident. This clan are not just family, they're best friends too.
2. The Villain - Is truly evil. From start to finish. There's no moment of pity for this villain, no redeeming quality like is sadly so common with villains these days. This villain is sinister and dark and you want nothing more than the worst demise for them. It was refreshing to truly hate a character and hope for them to fail. There aren't enough real villains in stories anymore.
3. History - If you're someone who's intrigued by the past, the time travel and walking into the past will be enough to entertain you. While most of the steps in time the Kings travel are dangerous and intense, the historical aspect of these trips makes the story hold a more intelligent plot, weaved around actual events in a magical way.
4. Religion - If you're not a religious person, don't let this deter you from reading the series. I promise it's not overwhelming. But for me, I really enjoyed the subtle mentions of going to church, or the kids praying for strength. The Kings believe they're doing something good in God's eyes and by the last book their purpose had me shedding happy, surprised tears.
5. Perseverance - You know what it feels like when you're sicker than you've ever been, miserable beyond belief, but then you stumble into the children's cancer ward and see all these kids very aware that they may die, enduring the torture that is cancer treatment, with all the hope in the world and still have a smile on their face? Suddenly your problems mean nothing and it empowers you against your own pity party. That's what it feels like watching the Kings face near death experiences over and over again with hardly or sometimes no rest at all. If a 12 year old can look fear in the face and start swinging, you need to re-assess how you handle your own fear.
6. Pacing - These six books span across such a short period of time, something like 8 days. The chapters are marked by the date and time to really drive home how much can happen in such a short period of time. Sometimes it felt like I held my breath for an entire chapter completely in shock over all that happened in just 15 minutes time. I'm certain the speedy nature of the story itself is partly why I was able to read it so fast.
This series has easily climbed the ranks as one of my favorites. I'm so baffled by how difficult it was to find some of the books in hardback so quickly after it was released. I highly recommend these books for anyone (MG, YA, Adults like me). It won't be an adventure you regret or forget.
1. Family - The bond between the kids and parents is huge. While Mom (Gee) and Dad (Ed) both hold reasonable parental roles, they at times seem to have a good grip on their own youth when it comes to adventuring with their kids. And those kids, Xander (15), David (12), and Toria (9) are siblings the way kids should be. Sure they can get on each others nerves at times, but they stick together through thick and more thick (because there is no 'thin' in the Kings lives). Additional characters like Jessie, Nana, and Keal (some of which aren't even related by blood) easily become a part of the King family once introduced into the story. This is a loving family, welcoming with open arms. Even though you sense this awesome bond early on, by the end of the series it couldn't be more evident. This clan are not just family, they're best friends too.
2. The Villain - Is truly evil. From start to finish. There's no moment of pity for this villain, no redeeming quality like is sadly so common with villains these days. This villain is sinister and dark and you want nothing more than the worst demise for them. It was refreshing to truly hate a character and hope for them to fail. There aren't enough real villains in stories anymore.
3. History - If you're someone who's intrigued by the past, the time travel and walking into the past will be enough to entertain you. While most of the steps in time the Kings travel are dangerous and intense, the historical aspect of these trips makes the story hold a more intelligent plot, weaved around actual events in a magical way.
4. Religion - If you're not a religious person, don't let this deter you from reading the series. I promise it's not overwhelming. But for me, I really enjoyed the subtle mentions of going to church, or the kids praying for strength. The Kings believe they're doing something good in God's eyes and by the last book their purpose had me shedding happy, surprised tears.
5. Perseverance - You know what it feels like when you're sicker than you've ever been, miserable beyond belief, but then you stumble into the children's cancer ward and see all these kids very aware that they may die, enduring the torture that is cancer treatment, with all the hope in the world and still have a smile on their face? Suddenly your problems mean nothing and it empowers you against your own pity party. That's what it feels like watching the Kings face near death experiences over and over again with hardly or sometimes no rest at all. If a 12 year old can look fear in the face and start swinging, you need to re-assess how you handle your own fear.
6. Pacing - These six books span across such a short period of time, something like 8 days. The chapters are marked by the date and time to really drive home how much can happen in such a short period of time. Sometimes it felt like I held my breath for an entire chapter completely in shock over all that happened in just 15 minutes time. I'm certain the speedy nature of the story itself is partly why I was able to read it so fast.
This series has easily climbed the ranks as one of my favorites. I'm so baffled by how difficult it was to find some of the books in hardback so quickly after it was released. I highly recommend these books for anyone (MG, YA, Adults like me). It won't be an adventure you regret or forget.
December 19, 2016
Whoa. That was a wild ride. O.O
I think I need to take a while to recover from all the anxiety the Kings caused me while they were doing dangerous stuff. XD
I think I need to take a while to recover from all the anxiety the Kings caused me while they were doing dangerous stuff. XD
July 19, 2018
I finally finished this series...and what a ride it was!
September 25, 2012
I enjoyed this series thoroughly all the way til this last book. Jesus, really? It just seemed like it tainted the whole series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2012
Final Rating: 4.7 stars
Series Average: 3.8, rounding up to a 4.
Okay, why did I not feel this feeling of freedom when I finished this book, but instead a tinge of sadness? This series that I didn't think I'd like so much, this series that I didn't expect much from, this series that I only wanted to get finished a couple of days ago? I'll tell you why, THIS BOOK. Wow. Not many of my books get a (rounded up) 5 star rating, but this book did it! In my opinion, it was just the perfect conclusion.
Before I get to it, let's talk about the covers, shall we? Yep, I'm going to make a whole long review today, since 1) it's the last day of 2012, 2) this is the last book in the Dreamhouse Kings series, and 3) I didn't expect to like this series as much as I did. Ok, ok, onto the covers.
I have to admit, when I got the first 3 books in this series for Christmas last year, I was a little freaked out. No joke, I told myself that I wasn't going to start this book until I knew I'd be surrounded by people for the time it would take to read these books. I mean, they are just FREAKY. Well, at least the first 2 are. The others aren't as bad, but the first 2 totally made me procrastinate on reading it until Christmas break, when I knew I'd be with my family at all times. Even the NAMES of the books, though. "House of Dark Shadows"? "Watcher in the Woods"? Admit it, that sounds pretty dang scary! I know, I know, I'm a scaredy-cat.
I don't own the next 3 books (after Gatekeeper) in paperback form, or in any solid form, really, because I bought them all on Kindle. Would you believe it, Barnes and Noble didn't have these books! Sure, they're like 3-4 years old, but they have such high ratings and have such an interesting concept! There was no way I was going to wait a week to get them on Amazon, I wanted to read this series pronto, so I could start out 2013 fresh with a new book. I really do wish I had them in paperback form, though, because they are just gorgeous! Especially book number 5, "Whirlwind". Just straight-up gorgeous.
Now, onto the content of the books and initial thoughts and all that. When I picked up the first book, "House of Dark Shadows", I was totally sure that this book would be a haunting, scary book. I then read the back and thought "hmm..another one of those books that LOOKS scary but isn't TOO scary." After reading the first 2, which in my opinion are the scarier (content and cover-wise), slower, and informational ones, I was a bit spooked! There were certain parts that I'd prefer to stay with my sister while reading instead of moving to my lonely room, alone, at night. Haha. It really isn't TOO scary, but as I've stated before, I'm a scaredy-cat.
After the first book, I had so many doubts about this series. I really didn't enjoy the first 2 books too much, but then it picked up a LOT at that midway book, "Gatekeepers". After that one, it started becoming a lot more fast-paced. Whenever I'd start a chapter where the Kings were finally at home after a big adventure in one of the portals, I'd just be like: "Oh, lord. Don't get your hopes up, boys, somethings going to happen, or you're going to go wandering into some trouble. Forget about rest." Admit it, you thought it at at least one point in the books too. :)
I'm sorry about all this rambling, it's 2am and I'm not tired at all. If you've made it this far in reading my review, you're crazy. Just kidding, I appreciate it. MOVING ON...this specific book was by far, as you can tell, my favorite. I mean, it's getting a rounded up 5 star rating! A lot of people are classifying this series as "Christian fiction" after the last 2 books, which I suppose I could see after but I personally wouldn't classify it as Christian fiction. They mention Jesus and God in a couple of chapters, yes, but classify the whole SERIES as that? I mean, the majority of the series is just fast-paced adventure, mixed in with a lot of dramatic aspects. Just because they mention Jesus a lot towards the end doesn't make the entire series Christian fiction! Ah, well. I can still see how many people were thinking, and it's none of my business anyways so...let's move on. :)
This book starts off GREAT, in my opinion. I mean, as I've said in like every single one of my reviews for this series, . That just isn't Liparulo's style, in my opinion. But even so, we are still unsure throughout this book and the opening scene is perfect (the prologue). Xander scrambling down the hill with the cut on his chin, speaking things that just makes our heart skip a beat. It went right along with the conclusion of this book, and wrapped everything up in a really nice way. He describes time perfectly, even though the aspects of it are pretty dang confusing. The little things that did annoy me, though, are things like
Speaking of the .
Not sure if you all noticed this, but whatever happened to that dude, Clayton? Was that his name? I'm pretty sure it is. That guy that was trying to beat David up in the first books in the series, the boy in his grade. After David had that one conversation with him about Taksidian, Clayton leaves while saying "I'll think about it." And we never hear from him again!
Another thing is how they don't really explain HOW the portals and the house and all that were built. Sure, those time currents from that oval clearing or whatever, but why and how and when did Jesse find them and decide to convert them or whatever? I was still really unclear on that...but maybe that's just me.
What else, what else. Perhaps how I liked that in a way...but detested it in another. I liked it because it kind of leaves us thinking in wonder, but I detested it because I was just like, "Umm, okay? That's it?". So, it's a bittersweet type of thing.
Overall, this series was enjoyable and the last 3 books really captured my attention enough to make me feel a bit sad that I have to say goodbye to this series for now. Especially this one. It was a good conclusion, despite the little flaws mentioned above. I would definitely recommend it to people, despite my mixed feelings on the first couple of books.
Final Rating: 4.7 stars
Series Average: 3.8, rounding up to a 4.
Series Average: 3.8, rounding up to a 4.
Okay, why did I not feel this feeling of freedom when I finished this book, but instead a tinge of sadness? This series that I didn't think I'd like so much, this series that I didn't expect much from, this series that I only wanted to get finished a couple of days ago? I'll tell you why, THIS BOOK. Wow. Not many of my books get a (rounded up) 5 star rating, but this book did it! In my opinion, it was just the perfect conclusion.
Before I get to it, let's talk about the covers, shall we? Yep, I'm going to make a whole long review today, since 1) it's the last day of 2012, 2) this is the last book in the Dreamhouse Kings series, and 3) I didn't expect to like this series as much as I did. Ok, ok, onto the covers.
I have to admit, when I got the first 3 books in this series for Christmas last year, I was a little freaked out. No joke, I told myself that I wasn't going to start this book until I knew I'd be surrounded by people for the time it would take to read these books. I mean, they are just FREAKY. Well, at least the first 2 are. The others aren't as bad, but the first 2 totally made me procrastinate on reading it until Christmas break, when I knew I'd be with my family at all times. Even the NAMES of the books, though. "House of Dark Shadows"? "Watcher in the Woods"? Admit it, that sounds pretty dang scary! I know, I know, I'm a scaredy-cat.
I don't own the next 3 books (after Gatekeeper) in paperback form, or in any solid form, really, because I bought them all on Kindle. Would you believe it, Barnes and Noble didn't have these books! Sure, they're like 3-4 years old, but they have such high ratings and have such an interesting concept! There was no way I was going to wait a week to get them on Amazon, I wanted to read this series pronto, so I could start out 2013 fresh with a new book. I really do wish I had them in paperback form, though, because they are just gorgeous! Especially book number 5, "Whirlwind". Just straight-up gorgeous.
Now, onto the content of the books and initial thoughts and all that. When I picked up the first book, "House of Dark Shadows", I was totally sure that this book would be a haunting, scary book. I then read the back and thought "hmm..another one of those books that LOOKS scary but isn't TOO scary." After reading the first 2, which in my opinion are the scarier (content and cover-wise), slower, and informational ones, I was a bit spooked! There were certain parts that I'd prefer to stay with my sister while reading instead of moving to my lonely room, alone, at night. Haha. It really isn't TOO scary, but as I've stated before, I'm a scaredy-cat.
After the first book, I had so many doubts about this series. I really didn't enjoy the first 2 books too much, but then it picked up a LOT at that midway book, "Gatekeepers". After that one, it started becoming a lot more fast-paced. Whenever I'd start a chapter where the Kings were finally at home after a big adventure in one of the portals, I'd just be like: "Oh, lord. Don't get your hopes up, boys, somethings going to happen, or you're going to go wandering into some trouble. Forget about rest." Admit it, you thought it at at least one point in the books too. :)
I'm sorry about all this rambling, it's 2am and I'm not tired at all. If you've made it this far in reading my review, you're crazy. Just kidding, I appreciate it. MOVING ON...this specific book was by far, as you can tell, my favorite. I mean, it's getting a rounded up 5 star rating! A lot of people are classifying this series as "Christian fiction" after the last 2 books, which I suppose I could see after but I personally wouldn't classify it as Christian fiction. They mention Jesus and God in a couple of chapters, yes, but classify the whole SERIES as that? I mean, the majority of the series is just fast-paced adventure, mixed in with a lot of dramatic aspects. Just because they mention Jesus a lot towards the end doesn't make the entire series Christian fiction! Ah, well. I can still see how many people were thinking, and it's none of my business anyways so...let's move on. :)
This book starts off GREAT, in my opinion. I mean, as I've said in like every single one of my reviews for this series, . That just isn't Liparulo's style, in my opinion. But even so, we are still unsure throughout this book and the opening scene is perfect (the prologue). Xander scrambling down the hill with the cut on his chin, speaking things that just makes our heart skip a beat. It went right along with the conclusion of this book, and wrapped everything up in a really nice way. He describes time perfectly, even though the aspects of it are pretty dang confusing. The little things that did annoy me, though, are things like
Speaking of the .
Not sure if you all noticed this, but whatever happened to that dude, Clayton? Was that his name? I'm pretty sure it is. That guy that was trying to beat David up in the first books in the series, the boy in his grade. After David had that one conversation with him about Taksidian, Clayton leaves while saying "I'll think about it." And we never hear from him again!
Another thing is how they don't really explain HOW the portals and the house and all that were built. Sure, those time currents from that oval clearing or whatever, but why and how and when did Jesse find them and decide to convert them or whatever? I was still really unclear on that...but maybe that's just me.
What else, what else. Perhaps how I liked that in a way...but detested it in another. I liked it because it kind of leaves us thinking in wonder, but I detested it because I was just like, "Umm, okay? That's it?". So, it's a bittersweet type of thing.
Overall, this series was enjoyable and the last 3 books really captured my attention enough to make me feel a bit sad that I have to say goodbye to this series for now. Especially this one. It was a good conclusion, despite the little flaws mentioned above. I would definitely recommend it to people, despite my mixed feelings on the first couple of books.
Final Rating: 4.7 stars
Series Average: 3.8, rounding up to a 4.
May 15, 2011
First Look: 5/5 I love the cover! And the title is just plain cool. I also like the how the mom is the only light figure.
Setting: 5/5 Well, hmmm, let's see... Creepy old house? Check. Atlantis? Check. Ancient Rome? Check. Random, viciously morbid settings throughout history all stuff into one book? Check! Like the Pendragon series, this book does a great job of bouncing around to countless different settings. Though it's based on Earth, the history-jumping is a wild ride all on its own.
Characters: 3/5 Xander has remained my favorite since the beginning. He seems like the most three-dimensional one in the series. (Yes, that's right, I like the character who tends to have anger-spazz moments.) David was sort of getting to that point and I liked him and felt for him, but all the others fell a bit flat for me. Dad, as he was simply known throughout the series, was too...typical. So was the mom, but she wasn't really in much of the series anyway. Taksidian, the villain, would be really creeping me out one minute, but the next he'd do or say something that would just downright make me laugh. Don't get me wrong; he was scary, but he seemed awkwardly written at times. I hoped this book would prove that Toria deserved to be in the story, but...guess not. I felt like her only point was to add cuteness to otherwise freaky situations.
Plot: 4/5 This book is paced a bit slower than Whirlwind, which is good. Whirlwind really was...a whirlwind. That being said, this entire series moves insanely fast. The whole six books take place over, what, ten days? Whew! It was a little jarring, which was good. I like that in this kind of series. I thought the ending was fitting, too, but...my predictions were incorrect. I thought...erm, that certain people would die, but nope, they didn't. Now I'm just wondering why that disappoints me so much.
Uniqueness: 4/5 This series is unlike any other, combining Christian fiction with haunted houses with time travel. However, the plot arc of each book was very, very similar to the one before it.
Writing: 4/5 Oh, Liparulo never fails to make me smile in some way or other with his writing. Only he would have half his characters battling certain death in Atlantis while the other half sits at a drive-through, wondering why the first characters won't pick up their phones. And he does like to put a lot of emphasis on food, of all things. It's a bit weird, how he puts very mundane things into the spotlight when they don't need to be there at all. Other than those weird little things, I mostly like his writing.
Likes: The word bicep only appeared once in this book! Yahoo! It was used dozens and dozens of times in the previous books. And for goodness' sake, that's Jesus! Loved that twist.
Not-so-great: Okay, really? That beginning was almost a bit...cruel. Yes, I was freaking out. And then to leave us hanging through a whole 330-something pages? Harsh. And I'm sorry, but...the guy bit David. That is so gross.
Total Score: 4/5 And so the Dreamhouse series concludes. Despite my nitpicks, this was by all means a good ending to the series. This entire book is a bit of a frenzy, but then again, that's how I like my books. Like the other books, it was a somewhat jarring read. Be warned, these books are not without their morbidness. Revisit all of the most terrible scenes in history? Sure, why not? But I love time travel books, and I like history, and I love the concept of messing it up. A high fours stars for Frenzy. Recommended, but make sure you read House of Dark Shadows, Watcher in the Woods*, and so on, first!
*Creepiest cover/title combo ever, by the way. I love it. The title is stalkerish and then there's this vague outline of a guy, just standing there, watching you...
Read even more reviews at http://anniesepicblog.blogspot.com!
Setting: 5/5 Well, hmmm, let's see... Creepy old house? Check. Atlantis? Check. Ancient Rome? Check. Random, viciously morbid settings throughout history all stuff into one book? Check! Like the Pendragon series, this book does a great job of bouncing around to countless different settings. Though it's based on Earth, the history-jumping is a wild ride all on its own.
Characters: 3/5 Xander has remained my favorite since the beginning. He seems like the most three-dimensional one in the series. (Yes, that's right, I like the character who tends to have anger-spazz moments.) David was sort of getting to that point and I liked him and felt for him, but all the others fell a bit flat for me. Dad, as he was simply known throughout the series, was too...typical. So was the mom, but she wasn't really in much of the series anyway. Taksidian, the villain, would be really creeping me out one minute, but the next he'd do or say something that would just downright make me laugh. Don't get me wrong; he was scary, but he seemed awkwardly written at times. I hoped this book would prove that Toria deserved to be in the story, but...guess not. I felt like her only point was to add cuteness to otherwise freaky situations.
Plot: 4/5 This book is paced a bit slower than Whirlwind, which is good. Whirlwind really was...a whirlwind. That being said, this entire series moves insanely fast. The whole six books take place over, what, ten days? Whew! It was a little jarring, which was good. I like that in this kind of series. I thought the ending was fitting, too, but...my predictions were incorrect. I thought...erm, that certain people would die, but nope, they didn't. Now I'm just wondering why that disappoints me so much.
Uniqueness: 4/5 This series is unlike any other, combining Christian fiction with haunted houses with time travel. However, the plot arc of each book was very, very similar to the one before it.
Writing: 4/5 Oh, Liparulo never fails to make me smile in some way or other with his writing. Only he would have half his characters battling certain death in Atlantis while the other half sits at a drive-through, wondering why the first characters won't pick up their phones. And he does like to put a lot of emphasis on food, of all things. It's a bit weird, how he puts very mundane things into the spotlight when they don't need to be there at all. Other than those weird little things, I mostly like his writing.
Likes: The word bicep only appeared once in this book! Yahoo! It was used dozens and dozens of times in the previous books. And for goodness' sake, that's Jesus! Loved that twist.
Not-so-great: Okay, really? That beginning was almost a bit...cruel. Yes, I was freaking out. And then to leave us hanging through a whole 330-something pages? Harsh. And I'm sorry, but...the guy bit David. That is so gross.
Total Score: 4/5 And so the Dreamhouse series concludes. Despite my nitpicks, this was by all means a good ending to the series. This entire book is a bit of a frenzy, but then again, that's how I like my books. Like the other books, it was a somewhat jarring read. Be warned, these books are not without their morbidness. Revisit all of the most terrible scenes in history? Sure, why not? But I love time travel books, and I like history, and I love the concept of messing it up. A high fours stars for Frenzy. Recommended, but make sure you read House of Dark Shadows, Watcher in the Woods*, and so on, first!
*Creepiest cover/title combo ever, by the way. I love it. The title is stalkerish and then there's this vague outline of a guy, just standing there, watching you...
Read even more reviews at http://anniesepicblog.blogspot.com!
October 8, 2013
Frenzy. What else is there to say? It’s the final book in the Dreamhouse Kings series. Wow.
We’re starting out in a very familiar place for this series. Everyone’s in danger. Not just your normal average every day danger, but life threatening loss of limb danger. And this time around Liparulo has ratcheted the danger up several notches with the idea that one of the major characters is going to die in this book. Right away, one of the first things we learn when reading this book is that Xander is mourning the death of his brother. (Hey, I warned you there’d be spoilers ahead!) It’s an agonizing way to begin the final chapter of the series with the reader knowing that one of his or her favorites is set to die. As I’m sure Liparulo planned, it colors everything that the characters do throughout the course of the book and in many cases, leaves you gasping as you read.
In Frenzy, everything (and I mean everything!) is a life or death situation for some member of the King family. This is the other side of the hill on the roller coaster. There’s nothing to do at this point for the reader except to put your hands over your head and scream with delight, or hold on tight with your eyes closed. Admittedly that would make it hard to read, so you might want to consider keeping your eyes open.
Previously, I’d said that I wished there was some more spiritual content in the books. As a parent, I would have loved to see more prayers every now and then and perhaps some more leaning on God throughout. Liparulo covered that in this book with grace and creativity in spades. I was in tears throughout several areas of this book and so thankful that he took the opportunity to share that vitally important part of life with the readers in this tale.
For the most part, things get wrapped up in this book. Some things are left to wander around in our imaginations, but that’s not a bad thing. It leaves hope that maybe Liparulo will visit the Kings in their crazy house once more. The major questions that have been asked throughout the series get answered and that’s a good thing. The King family finds out their mission and purpose in the house and that’s a good thing. Frenzy brings us full circle and that’s a good thing.
I loved this book. I enjoyed this series. My only questions are “Robert, what’s next?! Is there a door upstairs in my house that will get me to your next project sooner?”
Review copies provided by Thomas Nelson.
We’re starting out in a very familiar place for this series. Everyone’s in danger. Not just your normal average every day danger, but life threatening loss of limb danger. And this time around Liparulo has ratcheted the danger up several notches with the idea that one of the major characters is going to die in this book. Right away, one of the first things we learn when reading this book is that Xander is mourning the death of his brother. (Hey, I warned you there’d be spoilers ahead!) It’s an agonizing way to begin the final chapter of the series with the reader knowing that one of his or her favorites is set to die. As I’m sure Liparulo planned, it colors everything that the characters do throughout the course of the book and in many cases, leaves you gasping as you read.
In Frenzy, everything (and I mean everything!) is a life or death situation for some member of the King family. This is the other side of the hill on the roller coaster. There’s nothing to do at this point for the reader except to put your hands over your head and scream with delight, or hold on tight with your eyes closed. Admittedly that would make it hard to read, so you might want to consider keeping your eyes open.
Previously, I’d said that I wished there was some more spiritual content in the books. As a parent, I would have loved to see more prayers every now and then and perhaps some more leaning on God throughout. Liparulo covered that in this book with grace and creativity in spades. I was in tears throughout several areas of this book and so thankful that he took the opportunity to share that vitally important part of life with the readers in this tale.
For the most part, things get wrapped up in this book. Some things are left to wander around in our imaginations, but that’s not a bad thing. It leaves hope that maybe Liparulo will visit the Kings in their crazy house once more. The major questions that have been asked throughout the series get answered and that’s a good thing. The King family finds out their mission and purpose in the house and that’s a good thing. Frenzy brings us full circle and that’s a good thing.
I loved this book. I enjoyed this series. My only questions are “Robert, what’s next?! Is there a door upstairs in my house that will get me to your next project sooner?”
Review copies provided by Thomas Nelson.
April 1, 2013
***SMALL SPOILER ALERT***
The final book in The Dreamhouse Series. I had given the rest of the series 4 stars and this particular book only 3. Then as the book started winding down, I was a bit dismayed that God entered the picture. 5 books and not mention of God and now all of the sudden God. I did expect the time traveling family to send up some where back in the a biblical time (what author could have resisted that). I was disappointed in the ending, I was expecting more.
I do hope that Mr. Liparulo continues his sage of the Kings and how they are saving the world by going back in time and some new badies as well a the return of some old badies.
All in all...the 6 books are worth the time to read.
The final book in The Dreamhouse Series. I had given the rest of the series 4 stars and this particular book only 3. Then as the book started winding down, I was a bit dismayed that God entered the picture. 5 books and not mention of God and now all of the sudden God. I did expect the time traveling family to send up some where back in the a biblical time (what author could have resisted that). I was disappointed in the ending, I was expecting more.
I do hope that Mr. Liparulo continues his sage of the Kings and how they are saving the world by going back in time and some new badies as well a the return of some old badies.
All in all...the 6 books are worth the time to read.
August 19, 2019
Well Wow, that's all I really have to say. I liked the series as a whole, but this last one blew me away. Somewhere in the middle of the series I'd had a moment of is it not getting a little repetitive and stale? Then like a swift kick in the gut everything I figured got knocked out of me and bam a whole new plot twist in the series. I love the way the series ended, but certainly wish there was more.
May 28, 2018
The dreamhouse kings was a mind twisting series which I have enjoyed reading over the past couple years off and on. I put the book away for the summers but when school started it was my go to series for my independent reading. The series is about a normal family thrown into the supernatural reality of time travel. Ed king (the father and principal of the school his son's go to) moves with his family to a small town in pindale C.A for a new job as school principal. Although this is trough, he hid his true intention of going back to the house where he grew up which is a hub where many portal leading to past events were only bad things have happened. He went back to look for his mother who was taken by a creature that came from the portals 30 years ago. But in the families travels, his wife and the main characters (Xander and David) mother is taken by an evil assassin from ancient time. The series goes on telling about the adventures this family has wile looking for the two missing people and fighting Tadiskan, the evil assassin who is determined to kill the famly and take over the world using the portals.
In this book, the final book the family go around leaving markings of a family symbol around trying to find Gee (the mother) but they end up finding the grandmother instead. Through out the book David and Xander go around finding portals and winding up in various situations of combat and trying to find any trace of their mother. But in the end of the book we find out that David ( Xanders little brother) is supposed to be killed in the future, but rite after this they find their mother and fight Tadiskan who ellediglly stabs and killes David. But in the end the Kings (The family) fight off tadiskan and send him to his own world. Despite the abrupt ending to the book, it was and easy read. There was a lack of plot twists through out the series but over all is a great read for an imaginative 5th, 6th, 7th or 8th grader. This particular book however lacked the adventure and exitement compared to the other books in the series. Over all I rate this book and 89.5/100 on my personal scale and how it affected me.
In this book, the final book the family go around leaving markings of a family symbol around trying to find Gee (the mother) but they end up finding the grandmother instead. Through out the book David and Xander go around finding portals and winding up in various situations of combat and trying to find any trace of their mother. But in the end of the book we find out that David ( Xanders little brother) is supposed to be killed in the future, but rite after this they find their mother and fight Tadiskan who ellediglly stabs and killes David. But in the end the Kings (The family) fight off tadiskan and send him to his own world. Despite the abrupt ending to the book, it was and easy read. There was a lack of plot twists through out the series but over all is a great read for an imaginative 5th, 6th, 7th or 8th grader. This particular book however lacked the adventure and exitement compared to the other books in the series. Over all I rate this book and 89.5/100 on my personal scale and how it affected me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 27, 2019
*dramatic inhale*
I loved this series so much, I want rate it 6 stars for the amount of creativity.
This series is probably my new favorite. (I still like Warriors tho)
This review seems sort of empty, and thats because i cant find the words to describe how i feel about these books.
I recommend this series to anyone who likes horrer, mystery, suspense, action, and the idea of time travel and changing history. BUT there is a little gore throughout the series, and the characters get injured many times doing crazy things. Like driving a car into a house. And maybe a severed finge-
(also if your still confused at the end of the book, read the Q and A at the end, it will help. dont read that until finishing the series though)
i need those short stories
also, a cute emu named Daisy. Ok then.
I loved this series so much, I want rate it 6 stars for the amount of creativity.
This series is probably my new favorite. (I still like Warriors tho)
This review seems sort of empty, and thats because i cant find the words to describe how i feel about these books.
I recommend this series to anyone who likes horrer, mystery, suspense, action, and the idea of time travel and changing history. BUT there is a little gore throughout the series, and the characters get injured many times doing crazy things. Like driving a car into a house. And maybe a severed finge-
(also if your still confused at the end of the book, read the Q and A at the end, it will help. dont read that until finishing the series though)
i need those short stories
also, a cute emu named Daisy. Ok then.
April 6, 2017
Wow! No puedo creerlo, leí toda la serie en menos de tres días. Eso significa que me gustó mucho.
La historia es fascinante, te deja con la sensación de querer saber más y más.
En cada aventura de esta familia, King, me sentía parte de ella. Por su puesto, compartí su sufrimiento y angustiosa búsqueda.
Definitivamente, Dreamhouse, se ha convertido en una mis series favoritas, no sólo por las aventuras, que fueron increíbles, sino también en el mensaje que transmite.
No supero el final de la serie. No sé si calmarme o decir a gritos que quiero más de esta familia y sus aventuras.
Por último, recordar esta frase que mantiene en pie a los chicos King: "Fuerte y Valiente"
No es el fin...
La historia es fascinante, te deja con la sensación de querer saber más y más.
En cada aventura de esta familia, King, me sentía parte de ella. Por su puesto, compartí su sufrimiento y angustiosa búsqueda.
Definitivamente, Dreamhouse, se ha convertido en una mis series favoritas, no sólo por las aventuras, que fueron increíbles, sino también en el mensaje que transmite.
No supero el final de la serie. No sé si calmarme o decir a gritos que quiero más de esta familia y sus aventuras.
Por último, recordar esta frase que mantiene en pie a los chicos King: "Fuerte y Valiente"
No es el fin...
April 6, 2023
Frenzy is the final Dreamhouse Kings book and I am glad that, after all these years, I have finished the series. *Possible spoilers ahead*
All in all, I'm glad to know how everything ended, even if I wasn't a fan of everything in this book. Still an easy read.
All in all, I'm glad to know how everything ended, even if I wasn't a fan of everything in this book. Still an easy read.
March 24, 2024
It was going fine until Jesus showed up right in the middle. LiTeRaLly a deus ex (deus?) machina. Other than that it was a fine read. Glad I’m done with the series!
March 7, 2017
I was happy with this ending to the series--the Kings find Mom, kick Taksidian and Phemus back into the portals where they belonged, and accept their destiny as gatekeepers of Time.
Not sure what kind of theory about time travel Liparulo was operating under... I can understand going back to fix the past and then having the present change because of what you've done, but in this book past-Jesse meets a future Xander who tells him David has been stabbed and killed by Taksidian. The Kings spend the rest of the book, more or less, trying to make sure that doesn't happen. It makes for a better plotted, much more engaging book than the last one, but I wasn't sure how that would work. If Xander in the "David Dies Timeline" went back to warn Jesse, then David would never have died in any of the timelines, creating a paradox. David never would have died, which means Xander never would have gone back to warn Jesse, which means David actually would have died, and so on. A feedback loop in time. Similarly, if the series continues and the Kings eventually change the far future so that human civilization isn't destroyed, then why were they able to see the bad future at all in the first place? Liparulo must be working off of some kind of theory that as far as the present is concerned, the future hasn't happened yet and can still be changed--but that only makes sense in a linear timeline, not one in which any event at any point affects any other event, like the ring described in the book When You Reach Me (very cool book, btw--time travel totally made sense in that one to me).
Also, the characters journey to the time of Christ and meet Jesus, who heals them of all their injuries... convenient for the plot, but pretty cool, and some of the most moving writing the author has been able to put together. The Dad had one of the most coherent explanations of what Jesus did that I'd ever read, as to why he would allow himself to be killed so horribly: "Because he loves you ... And this is the price he's willing to pay to make sure you know that." The doctrine of penal substitutionary atonement has never really made sense to me, but that does. Love is really pretty simple.
I finally got the action I wanted out of this series with the women kicking ass and taking names. Once Mom is rescued, she proves to be quite adept at protecting her children. You don't mess with a Mom. Now I forgive you, Mr. Liparulo.
But I don't forgive you for all of the nonsense in the last book. In the back of this final volume is an interview in which the author explains that even though Dad and Toria didn't find out anything about Atlantis that Xander and David weren't already learning, he justifies it by saying basically, "but they didn't know that and so it makes sense for them to have taken the trip to see the linguist, because that's what their characters would do." That may be true, but most authors don't write scenes of characters gardening, watching TV, or sitting on the crapper either if it has no ultimate impact on the characters' growth or the book's plot. It's a waste of the reader's time to include redundant information. At least admit that it was a plot device to get Dad and Toria out of the house.
Overall, good series. It probably could have been compressed into fewer books, but then the author couldn't have had that contest for kids to send in new locations for the Kings to go to. It's all about the marketing. I have to say, though, that the man can write a thriller. As soon as I read that first scene of Xander covered in David's blood screaming about how he was dead, I stayed up late and went at least a hundred pages further just to find out how it happened and if they could stop it.
It's a very fun read, just don't expect it to be too realistic. Invest a week in it if you need a mental break.
Not sure what kind of theory about time travel Liparulo was operating under... I can understand going back to fix the past and then having the present change because of what you've done, but in this book past-Jesse meets a future Xander who tells him David has been stabbed and killed by Taksidian. The Kings spend the rest of the book, more or less, trying to make sure that doesn't happen. It makes for a better plotted, much more engaging book than the last one, but I wasn't sure how that would work. If Xander in the "David Dies Timeline" went back to warn Jesse, then David would never have died in any of the timelines, creating a paradox. David never would have died, which means Xander never would have gone back to warn Jesse, which means David actually would have died, and so on. A feedback loop in time. Similarly, if the series continues and the Kings eventually change the far future so that human civilization isn't destroyed, then why were they able to see the bad future at all in the first place? Liparulo must be working off of some kind of theory that as far as the present is concerned, the future hasn't happened yet and can still be changed--but that only makes sense in a linear timeline, not one in which any event at any point affects any other event, like the ring described in the book When You Reach Me (very cool book, btw--time travel totally made sense in that one to me).
Also, the characters journey to the time of Christ and meet Jesus, who heals them of all their injuries... convenient for the plot, but pretty cool, and some of the most moving writing the author has been able to put together. The Dad had one of the most coherent explanations of what Jesus did that I'd ever read, as to why he would allow himself to be killed so horribly: "Because he loves you ... And this is the price he's willing to pay to make sure you know that." The doctrine of penal substitutionary atonement has never really made sense to me, but that does. Love is really pretty simple.
I finally got the action I wanted out of this series with the women kicking ass and taking names. Once Mom is rescued, she proves to be quite adept at protecting her children. You don't mess with a Mom. Now I forgive you, Mr. Liparulo.
But I don't forgive you for all of the nonsense in the last book. In the back of this final volume is an interview in which the author explains that even though Dad and Toria didn't find out anything about Atlantis that Xander and David weren't already learning, he justifies it by saying basically, "but they didn't know that and so it makes sense for them to have taken the trip to see the linguist, because that's what their characters would do." That may be true, but most authors don't write scenes of characters gardening, watching TV, or sitting on the crapper either if it has no ultimate impact on the characters' growth or the book's plot. It's a waste of the reader's time to include redundant information. At least admit that it was a plot device to get Dad and Toria out of the house.
Overall, good series. It probably could have been compressed into fewer books, but then the author couldn't have had that contest for kids to send in new locations for the Kings to go to. It's all about the marketing. I have to say, though, that the man can write a thriller. As soon as I read that first scene of Xander covered in David's blood screaming about how he was dead, I stayed up late and went at least a hundred pages further just to find out how it happened and if they could stop it.
It's a very fun read, just don't expect it to be too realistic. Invest a week in it if you need a mental break.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2010
Despite an at first really awkward and heavy handed religious overtone about three fourths into the book, it was probably the best of the series. I don't wanna spoil stuff since anything I say this far into the series would be doing just that, but it sticks to everything the series excels at. Being: crazy ass time traveling adventures, a strong familial bond between characters, and scrapes with death about, oh, every 10 pages.
The book ends with the message "The end...?" and i really hope it isn't. It did a great job at closing off the story arc that started in House of Dark Shadows, while still leaving worlds of opportunities for new stories to grow from.
And I mean that literally. There is so much more here that Liparulo could take from for future series. The characters have an infinite smorgasbord of worlds constantly changing IN THEIR FREAKING ATTIC! I can come up with about 10 new story lines right now off the top of my head. He'd be a dummy to let that opportunity pass him up.
The ending I talked of earlier felt right and fit with what has happened to the Kings. You didn't feel jipped and you weren't left with the thought "Oh here's another cliffhanger hinting at the possibility of a book that probably won't even get made." You can tell it was written for the possibility of this being the end of the King Family's journey. I just hope it isn't.
The book ends with the message "The end...?" and i really hope it isn't. It did a great job at closing off the story arc that started in House of Dark Shadows, while still leaving worlds of opportunities for new stories to grow from.
And I mean that literally. There is so much more here that Liparulo could take from for future series. The characters have an infinite smorgasbord of worlds constantly changing IN THEIR FREAKING ATTIC! I can come up with about 10 new story lines right now off the top of my head. He'd be a dummy to let that opportunity pass him up.
The ending I talked of earlier felt right and fit with what has happened to the Kings. You didn't feel jipped and you weren't left with the thought "Oh here's another cliffhanger hinting at the possibility of a book that probably won't even get made." You can tell it was written for the possibility of this being the end of the King Family's journey. I just hope it isn't.
October 13, 2023
From 2011 Reading notes: Just an FYI for those who may consider reading this, please know in advance it is christian fiction. I was not aware of this & it is not listed as such & I am quite disappointed. I prefer not to read cf & by book 5 my suspicions were confirmed. This is book 6, the last in the series & I am reading it just to see it to the end. I do however, feel like I have wasted my time & money on a series that will leave me feeling very unfulfilled much in the same way the "Lost" finale did.
Also, I found a review similar to mine on amazon. The author made 2 comments on the review before I read the review & the author has since deleted his comments & I am very curious as to what he said & why he decided to delete them. I don't think an author should expect every person to love their book & when someone has a legitimate complaint, an open discussion is a good thing.
Sorry for the mini rant. Just very frustrated since I'm trying so hard to balance reading & knitting that I wasted 6 books worth of time & money this point.
Also, I found a review similar to mine on amazon. The author made 2 comments on the review before I read the review & the author has since deleted his comments & I am very curious as to what he said & why he decided to delete them. I don't think an author should expect every person to love their book & when someone has a legitimate complaint, an open discussion is a good thing.
Sorry for the mini rant. Just very frustrated since I'm trying so hard to balance reading & knitting that I wasted 6 books worth of time & money this point.
May 15, 2013
When I first saw this book series it wasn’t the first in my list. In fact I found it in my school and bought it only because I had the money for only that first book and I have to say I’m thankful that I got it. It gives you an amazing adventure in which you traveled with Xander, David, Toria and Dad in searched of mom. Of course with help from some family like Jesse and friend Kael. In this book’s you will meet some of the must hair ripping, vicious and vile men in history. Going from door’s in their home to portals that can take them to different moments in history allowing them to change it, like Atlantis, Titanic, the Civil War and more. And to top it all the six book’s where just a week for the family. What I like most of this book is the way family comes together in the worst of times to stand for what they believe in and get back what they love. It’s heartwarming story and one of my top favorites, It will have you on your toes till it ends.
January 2, 2020
I chose to look through the books in this series to see if they'd be appropriate for my 13 year old son. I started and couldn't put them down. I haven't been on a ride that wild in a long time! My sci-fi side loved the premise, and the personalities of the two main characters (brothers) were so well developed, I miss them now that I've finished the series. I read all 6 books in one week, over Christmas when I could indulge staying up all night to read. I love the positive message about family, and the low-key religious tone... The King family is entirely relatable. I am anxiously looking forward to discussing them with my son. It's great to find something so well-written and enjoyable that's also appropriate for young teens.
October 3, 2010
I hope there is another book, but if there isn't, this was a great ending. I had no problems with the whole Christianity part, but I am a Christian too, which may be why. It did drag a little, but it was over soon enough, so it wasn't something for people to complian about. I loved the begining with the map of Atlantis, and the chase through Atlantis, that was pretty cool. This book got me really into it from the first page, and I could not put it down, I finished it within a day. This was a really good book, it explained everything, and the interview at the end explained some interesting things too. Overall I enjoyed reading the DreamHouse Kings and hope there will be another one!
October 26, 2012
I love this book with my whole heart, I don't want to spoil the ending for anyone, but not reading this is like a crime! Not even kidding, he know show to tug at your heartstrings! It certianly tugged at mine, he shows so much emotion, the description of everything that they see and the charaters are so developed at this oint that you feel like you know them! Like you're right there beside them, cheering them on! I can't rave enough about what a tremendous book this is! The series is a definite summer read! You won't want to put the books down! Robert did such a great job, like I said the charchters are so darned believable!
August 20, 2014
Enjoyed the series overall, but really could have gone without the religious and biblical mentions late in this one. At no other time in this 6 book series was there ever any mention of religion or the King Family having any religious beliefs. To suddenly have such an important part of the ending be quite religious and the family be so embracing of religion and "godly powers" within just seems really out of place and awkward. I must say I was really disappointed by it.
January 17, 2017
Nope
The premise of the story was awesome. There was way too many action scenes and not nearly enough dialogue interaction with the historical characters. And you totally lost me at the end with the religious stuff...sorry. Disappointing for me, but I suppose Christians love it. But kudos on coming up with the idea.
The premise of the story was awesome. There was way too many action scenes and not nearly enough dialogue interaction with the historical characters. And you totally lost me at the end with the religious stuff...sorry. Disappointing for me, but I suppose Christians love it. But kudos on coming up with the idea.
August 31, 2011
Really? Just...really? "God did it!" is just lazy storytelling.
June 23, 2014
Estoy muy conmovida y en parte, enojada porque ya no hay más libros de esta serie.
Reseña completa
Reseña completa
May 18, 2017
I WILL LOVE THIS SERIES FOREVER AND EVER. THAT IS ALL, GOOD DAY.
March 26, 2024
My coworker recommended me this whole series, and I took that recommendation to heart. I read this series for a book club theme of a genre outside of your usual repertoire - for me that is Christian fiction. It is just not a genre I gravitate towards if it is too heavy handed, and these books (up until this one) didn’t ever feel too forced with their message - they even had some really solid horror moments throughout.
Let me start by saying, while I only rated these books 3 stars each, I would have adored them when I was 12. For sure would have binged them then. Also, admittedly, this last one is probably a 3.5 or a 4 star based on a few interesting choices of venue that had me losing it. They were entertaining to say the least.
This installment was the one I had been waiting for, my coworker had told me that the crucifixion played a major role in it and I thought “in a kids horror book? No way!” Yes, way. What a wild series of events take place in these six books, not limited to the crucifixion.
I will say, I think the King family could have tried much harder to find Gee, and if I was her, I’d be a little livid that they didn’t. They go get ice cream several times, picnic, go to school, and get In n Out. That’s mostly to say, Ed the dad put in 5% effort and the kids did all the real leg work - as can be expected in a middle grade novel.
All in all, a total trip of a series.
Let me start by saying, while I only rated these books 3 stars each, I would have adored them when I was 12. For sure would have binged them then. Also, admittedly, this last one is probably a 3.5 or a 4 star based on a few interesting choices of venue that had me losing it. They were entertaining to say the least.
This installment was the one I had been waiting for, my coworker had told me that the crucifixion played a major role in it and I thought “in a kids horror book? No way!” Yes, way. What a wild series of events take place in these six books, not limited to the crucifixion.
I will say, I think the King family could have tried much harder to find Gee, and if I was her, I’d be a little livid that they didn’t. They go get ice cream several times, picnic, go to school, and get In n Out. That’s mostly to say, Ed the dad put in 5% effort and the kids did all the real leg work - as can be expected in a middle grade novel.
All in all, a total trip of a series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2024
*Frenzy* by Robert Liparulo is a riveting thriller that delivers a relentless pace and gripping suspense from beginning to end. The novel plunges readers into a high-stakes, adrenaline-fueled narrative that keeps them hooked with every twist and turn.
Liparulo’s writing is taut and immersive, drawing readers into a world of danger and intrigue. The plot is expertly crafted, with unexpected twists and mounting tension that heighten the stakes as the story progresses. The characters are well-developed, each with their own motivations and challenges that add depth to the intense action.
The pacing of *Frenzy* is exceptional, maintaining a breakneck speed that ensures the reader is constantly engaged. The combination of high-octane action and intricate plotting makes for a thoroughly captivating read. Liparulo’s skillful storytelling and knack for suspense make this novel a standout in the thriller genre.
Overall, *Frenzy* is a must-read for fans of gripping, high-energy thrillers. Robert Liparulo delivers a compelling and unforgettable experience that will keep readers eagerly turning pages until the very end.
Liparulo’s writing is taut and immersive, drawing readers into a world of danger and intrigue. The plot is expertly crafted, with unexpected twists and mounting tension that heighten the stakes as the story progresses. The characters are well-developed, each with their own motivations and challenges that add depth to the intense action.
The pacing of *Frenzy* is exceptional, maintaining a breakneck speed that ensures the reader is constantly engaged. The combination of high-octane action and intricate plotting makes for a thoroughly captivating read. Liparulo’s skillful storytelling and knack for suspense make this novel a standout in the thriller genre.
Overall, *Frenzy* is a must-read for fans of gripping, high-energy thrillers. Robert Liparulo delivers a compelling and unforgettable experience that will keep readers eagerly turning pages until the very end.
April 11, 2021
The series as a whole is a quite serviceable teen story, with adventure and mystery and small time bullies who are quite the waste of time when compared with other, realer threats from killers who use actual magic. I think this is important to include in fiction for young readers, as the confidence the characters gain from dealing with these threats sometimes translates to real kids reading it and knowing that school bullies can be dealt with, that they’re not the worst things out there. I also really like the scene with Jesus, and the explanation for why his blood didn’t get sucked back under the door. In my opinion, there’s so much blasphemy going on today that it’s easy to feel wrong for loving Jesus and it was quite refreshing to see them all agree that that was right. David also points out the mundanity of everyday life, something I think a lot of people struggle with, and teens especially would like to know they’re not alone in this, especially if David is letting them know it’s going to be okay.
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