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Alex Neptune #2
Alex Neptune, Pirate Hunter
Suite à Alex Neptune, Dragon Thief. Alex Neptune est un nouveau héros qui plaira aux amoureux de Percy Jackson et de Dragon Realm. Alex Neptune a déjà du mal à s'habituer à ses nouveaux pouvoirs océaniques... et voilà que des pirates attaquent Haven Bay à bord d'un navire fait de déchets ! Ils sont à la recherche de l'œuf disparu du mystérieux dragon aquatique, mais Alex est bien décidé à les devancer et les empêcher de subtiliser ses pouvoirs.
Avec ses amis Zoey et Anil (ainsi qu'un phoque maladroit, un bernard-l'hermite serrurier et des loutres particulièrement redoutables), Alex part pour une chasse au trésor qui les mènera à une épave secrète et à trois épreuves monstrueuses.
Avec ses amis Zoey et Anil (ainsi qu'un phoque maladroit, un bernard-l'hermite serrurier et des loutres particulièrement redoutables), Alex part pour une chasse au trésor qui les mènera à une épave secrète et à trois épreuves monstrueuses.
224 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 2, 2023
13 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
About the author
David Owen
9 books217 followersDavid resents the fact that he was not raised by wolves and was therefore robbed of a good story to tell at parties. He turned to fiction to compensate for his unremarkable existence.
He achieved 1st class honours in BA Creative Writing and MA Writing for Children at The University of Winchester, where he went on to teach on the BA Creative Writing course for three years. He hopes that one day all of his students will surpass his own achievements.
David’s debut YA novel, Panther, will be published by Constable & Robinson on their Corsair imprint in May 2015. Panther is a funny, touching, and occasionally unsettling coming-of-age story, which deals candidly with the stigmas and misunderstandings surrounding depression.
David has also worked as an award-shortlisted freelance games journalist and has been published as a poet.
He achieved 1st class honours in BA Creative Writing and MA Writing for Children at The University of Winchester, where he went on to teach on the BA Creative Writing course for three years. He hopes that one day all of his students will surpass his own achievements.
David’s debut YA novel, Panther, will be published by Constable & Robinson on their Corsair imprint in May 2015. Panther is a funny, touching, and occasionally unsettling coming-of-age story, which deals candidly with the stigmas and misunderstandings surrounding depression.
David has also worked as an award-shortlisted freelance games journalist and has been published as a poet.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
July 4, 2023
I would not recommend reading this book without having read the first. Although explanations are given, the world turned from ordinary to extraordinary by the time we left the three friends the last time.
In the previous book, Alex discovered his history and the powers that come with it. The trio of friends, with help from some people and water creatures, restored a dragon back into the water and cleared some of the pollution in their seaside town.
The dragon left to catch up on its work while keeping in touch with Alex at times. The problems of their little town are not over, though.
A ship made of trash and being spearheaded by a pirate is trying to find the missing dragon's egg, and they think it's still in their town. There is a new member in their small group, one who comes bearing news of the plans of the pirate.
This adventure sees all the characters ease into the roles they began with. They help and support each other in the ways that the other needs. The adults continue to assist but, for the most part, are unaware of the dangers that the children are undertaking. Alex may be the central protagonist, but the other Zoey and Anil also are given time and attention as they contribute to the hunt for the missing egg and its importance.
It is a fun story that maintains the pace that began in the first book.
The book focuses on cleaning up the oceans and general pollutive activities as a background. It is the ultimate goal that the series is working towards, a cleaner world.
The book is appropriate for middle schoolers, although, as an adult, I appreciated it as well.
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
In the previous book, Alex discovered his history and the powers that come with it. The trio of friends, with help from some people and water creatures, restored a dragon back into the water and cleared some of the pollution in their seaside town.
The dragon left to catch up on its work while keeping in touch with Alex at times. The problems of their little town are not over, though.
A ship made of trash and being spearheaded by a pirate is trying to find the missing dragon's egg, and they think it's still in their town. There is a new member in their small group, one who comes bearing news of the plans of the pirate.
This adventure sees all the characters ease into the roles they began with. They help and support each other in the ways that the other needs. The adults continue to assist but, for the most part, are unaware of the dangers that the children are undertaking. Alex may be the central protagonist, but the other Zoey and Anil also are given time and attention as they contribute to the hunt for the missing egg and its importance.
It is a fun story that maintains the pace that began in the first book.
The book focuses on cleaning up the oceans and general pollutive activities as a background. It is the ultimate goal that the series is working towards, a cleaner world.
The book is appropriate for middle schoolers, although, as an adult, I appreciated it as well.
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
January 19, 2026
PIRATE HUNTER is the second instalment in this aquatic adventure series.
We have a quest! I love quest books, having grown up on classic fantasy novels, PIRATE HUNTER sees Alex, Zoey, and Anil try to follow old legends and clues to find a water dragon egg first. Plus we have a Tomb Raider-esque sequence to avoid all these traps in order to get to the egg. It's a lot of fun, and gives the book some great action set pieces.
Alex, Zoey, and Anil return as the focus of the story, with some additional help from Alex's grandpa and sister Britney. There is also a new member of the crew, Meri, who comes from the environmental-warrior group who've turned pirate. It was nice to have a new person thrown into the group dynamics without causing jealousy - and to have another invention and science lover for Zoey to interact with.
The book explores the hopelessness that people can feel while fighting for a good cause, watching their progress do little against the damages others cause. This can push people to do drastic things and make poor alliance in desperate hope of changing things. It's a really mature, nuanced look at the emotional toll protecting the environment can take. However, it's ultimately not a bleak message as there is hope in the book that things can change.
I did enjoy the return of the crew's animal assistants. The thieving seagull steals every scene he's in while the otters are so cute and fun! Kraken doesn't have as much time this book, but I suppose that lets other get the spotlight.
We have a quest! I love quest books, having grown up on classic fantasy novels, PIRATE HUNTER sees Alex, Zoey, and Anil try to follow old legends and clues to find a water dragon egg first. Plus we have a Tomb Raider-esque sequence to avoid all these traps in order to get to the egg. It's a lot of fun, and gives the book some great action set pieces.
Alex, Zoey, and Anil return as the focus of the story, with some additional help from Alex's grandpa and sister Britney. There is also a new member of the crew, Meri, who comes from the environmental-warrior group who've turned pirate. It was nice to have a new person thrown into the group dynamics without causing jealousy - and to have another invention and science lover for Zoey to interact with.
The book explores the hopelessness that people can feel while fighting for a good cause, watching their progress do little against the damages others cause. This can push people to do drastic things and make poor alliance in desperate hope of changing things. It's a really mature, nuanced look at the emotional toll protecting the environment can take. However, it's ultimately not a bleak message as there is hope in the book that things can change.
I did enjoy the return of the crew's animal assistants. The thieving seagull steals every scene he's in while the otters are so cute and fun! Kraken doesn't have as much time this book, but I suppose that lets other get the spotlight.
March 1, 2023
4.5 stars
In book one Alex had to combat his fear and now in book two he needs to work on his self confidence - Alex experiences a serious and nearly debilitating case of imposter syndrome. But the cast of characters from book one including his best friends Zoey and Anil, sister Bridget and Grandpa are all here to support him in his endeavours.
And there are lots of them. From Eco pirates, to sea monsters with teeth for days. The gang need to find the fabled water dragon’s egg before someone else can take control of it and whilst the water dragon is in hibernation gathering the strength it used at the end of book one.
With more than a dash of Goonies vibes this story is an action packed treasure hunt and a fitting continuation of the story.
We also had new characters introduced who bought mystery and a lesson about making sure things are done the right way rather than by any means necessary.
I also enjoyed how Zoey and Anil really had their own character development arcs in this book too. Both of them bought splashes of humour back again too.
And of course the animals are back. Loaf, Pinch and the Otter gang who have their moments to help save the day.
There’s a sneak peek of book 3 at the end and I’m getting Inner space vibes.
Thanks to Bee at Kaleidoscopic Tours and the publisher Usborne for the gifted copy for the purposes of an honest review. Do check out the rest of the tour stops to find out more and my blog post for an interview with the author.
In book one Alex had to combat his fear and now in book two he needs to work on his self confidence - Alex experiences a serious and nearly debilitating case of imposter syndrome. But the cast of characters from book one including his best friends Zoey and Anil, sister Bridget and Grandpa are all here to support him in his endeavours.
And there are lots of them. From Eco pirates, to sea monsters with teeth for days. The gang need to find the fabled water dragon’s egg before someone else can take control of it and whilst the water dragon is in hibernation gathering the strength it used at the end of book one.
With more than a dash of Goonies vibes this story is an action packed treasure hunt and a fitting continuation of the story.
We also had new characters introduced who bought mystery and a lesson about making sure things are done the right way rather than by any means necessary.
I also enjoyed how Zoey and Anil really had their own character development arcs in this book too. Both of them bought splashes of humour back again too.
And of course the animals are back. Loaf, Pinch and the Otter gang who have their moments to help save the day.
There’s a sneak peek of book 3 at the end and I’m getting Inner space vibes.
Thanks to Bee at Kaleidoscopic Tours and the publisher Usborne for the gifted copy for the purposes of an honest review. Do check out the rest of the tour stops to find out more and my blog post for an interview with the author.
March 4, 2023
Another fantastic installment in the Alex Neptune series! I loved seeing the return of all the characters from the first book, and the addition of some great new characters who we'll hopefully see more of in the future books. The number of animal companions also grew and they're all so cute. It was great to see the friendships grow, as well as Alex's powers and him learning how to use them and his full potential. I think the important messages about the environment and doing what's right within such a fun story is excellent for Children's books. I can't wait to read the next one!
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and Usborne Publishing for an ARC copy of the book so I could write this honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and Usborne Publishing for an ARC copy of the book so I could write this honest review.
February 12, 2024
A bit funnier and more fast-paced than the first book in this installment about a group of kids fighting to keep the oceans clean with the help of a mythical creature - The Water Dragon. After defeating the poacher Raze Callis in the first book, Alex, Zoey and Anil fight a new (or maybe old?) enemy, while searching for the long-lost dragon egg by following a trail of clues that only puts them in more danger. The three of them make a brave and undefeatable team, each bringing their own powers or talents into the search. For Bridget's fans, she makes less of an appearance, but if you really liked Zoey or Anil, then you will be delighted to see the roles they will be playing in this one.
February 24, 2023
I thoroughly loved my second foray into Alex’s world. This sequel might be even better than the first - water dragons, pirates, messages about being nicer to our oceans and 3 incredible challenges. I really raced through this. I loved all of the talk about how we’re stronger when we’re surrounded by the people we love. I can’t wait for the next one!
July 29, 2023
A very sweet second book, with a nice moral about teamwork and trust that isn't at all preachy. The first book had been good, this was much better, and I'm looking forward to the third in the future. 😁
March 8, 2024
When we left Alex Neptune and his friends at the end of the first book, they had just freed the Water Dragon and defeated Raze Callis. Haven Bay has returned to normal after the Dragon used its magic to clean up the polluted ocean. Alex is struggling with his new found powers and hero status but all of that must be put to one side when pirates, hunting for the Water Dragons’s missing egg, attack the Bay.
Alex, along with his friends Zoey and Anil, plus new addition Meri, (and a collection of friendly sea creatures) must follow the treasure hunt clues that will take them to the town’s lighthouse and finally to an abandoned shipwreck. Alex must use all his skills to triumph in three monstrous challenges, each scarier and more difficult than the last. Will the Water Dragon return to help, or will Alex have to succeed alone?
I loved heading back into Alex’s world and seeing how the relationship between the characters have grown - I especially loved the message that together we are stronger. I can’t wait to find out what happens in the third instalment.
Alex, along with his friends Zoey and Anil, plus new addition Meri, (and a collection of friendly sea creatures) must follow the treasure hunt clues that will take them to the town’s lighthouse and finally to an abandoned shipwreck. Alex must use all his skills to triumph in three monstrous challenges, each scarier and more difficult than the last. Will the Water Dragon return to help, or will Alex have to succeed alone?
I loved heading back into Alex’s world and seeing how the relationship between the characters have grown - I especially loved the message that together we are stronger. I can’t wait to find out what happens in the third instalment.
August 5, 2023
When I started reading I didn't realise this was actually book 2 of a series but luckily it didn't matter. It works fine as a standalone and there's enough explanation at the start to know what's going on. First off, I loved the friendship between Alex, Zoey and Anil. They were all so supportive of each other, despite any differences they had. Though Alex kept doubting his powers and strength, the other two were great at boosting his confidence. I thought there were quite a few suspicious characters, and it was hard to know who to trust. I could just imagine how hard it was for Alex! I'm not entirely sure about sea otters living in a boy's bedroom and hiding in his trousers but a grandpa with an ice cream van definitely gets my vote.
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April 19, 2023
Dragons
A fantastic sequel to Alex Neptune Dragon Thief in which Alex is adjusting to his new abilities. He must prevent a group of pirates from attacking the bay in quest of the egg. Really well written and entertaining for children aged 7 and up. My son like mythology, stories, and Percy Jackson, so he enjoyed this as well. Alex and his buddies have returned, and after the thrills of the previous book, Alex must struggle to grasp his newfound abilities. Alex is swimming in the sea when a female who looks just like a mermaid appears to warn him that he is sought for his abilities. Soon later, he discovers that pirates in a ship made of garbage are chasing him because they believe he will bring them to the water dragon's egg.
A fantastic sequel to Alex Neptune Dragon Thief in which Alex is adjusting to his new abilities. He must prevent a group of pirates from attacking the bay in quest of the egg. Really well written and entertaining for children aged 7 and up. My son like mythology, stories, and Percy Jackson, so he enjoyed this as well. Alex and his buddies have returned, and after the thrills of the previous book, Alex must struggle to grasp his newfound abilities. Alex is swimming in the sea when a female who looks just like a mermaid appears to warn him that he is sought for his abilities. Soon later, he discovers that pirates in a ship made of garbage are chasing him because they believe he will bring them to the water dragon's egg.
April 13, 2023
A great sequel to Alex Neptune Dragon Thief where Alex is getting used to his new powers. He has to stop a group of pirates attacking the bay in their search for the egg. Really well written and enjoyable for children aged 7 up. My son loves myths, legends and Percy Jackson so loved this too
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews