Erebos - Ursula Poznanski

Erebos is a computer game, unlike any game ever played before - it seems to be alive, so alive that it crosses over from the world of the computer into the living world. Not just anyone can play - you have to be invited. And then you only get one chance to play.

But there is something sinister about a game that becomes so encompassing, a game that takes the lives of players totally.

An unique story - a creepy story.......

BZRK - Michael Grant

A war is being fought - and the future of mankind is at stake. But this is no ordinary war - it is a war being fought at a 'nano' level - organic controlled organisms that can travel into our very being, build our memories and desires, controlling everything we do.

Two groups are waging this war - and to be honest I wasn't sure which side is the right side to win.

A complicated and action packed tale. You can check out Michael Grant's website here BZRK

The power of six - Pittacus Lore

Wow - ages since I've been on here and I have been doing stacks of reading! Lots to catch up.

The sequel to I am number 4 is as action packed as it's predecessor. The Mogadorians are here on Earth awaiting the arrival of their ultimate leader - ready to destroy Earth and it's inhabitants.

John Smith (Number 4) has joined with Number 6. On the run they realise that the other Numbers are operating somewhere out there and that they need to locate them. However the Mogadorians have the contents of both Four and Six's chests. They need them back in order to utilise their real power.

Two storylines interweave as John and Sam fight to regain control of the Lorien chests and Number 6 searches for the other active survivors.

I wonder how long till the next instalment?

I am number 4 - Pittacus Lore

I am number 4 is one of those books that plays with your head - Pittacus Lore is the author and one of the main characters - but the book is a work of fiction and the characters are alien refugees.....so go figure!

James Smith is a teenage refugee from the planet Lorien - hidden on earth with his protector or guardian, Pittacus Lore. They move often, don't build relationships and stay 'out' of touch with the other refugees - named 1 - 9. But the 9 have a bond that if broken will meab the death of them all and their race.

Action packed, intriguing and very readabale. I haven't seen the movie adaption - but am keen to once the DVD is out.

Check out the fan website - I am number 4 - here

The lost art - Simon Morden

I had read a couple of reviews of Morden's first novel, and was looking forward to reading it. There are not many books that I just don't get into - but unfortunately this was one!

I found the plot overly complicated and it just took too long to actually work out what was going on and for the two threads of the plot to weave together.

I'm a fan of dystopic, post apocalyptic fiction - but the lost world of the 'Users' didn't capture my imagination very well at all. I think the average teen reader would find it a very challenging read.

The fall - Guillermo Del Toro and Chuck Hogan

Hot on the heels of The Strain is the sequel The fall. The 'virus' has virtually taken hold of the city and The Master's plan is almost fully implemented - the strigoi's hold of the international power network has not been prevented, signalling an end for mankind.

As Eph attempts to protect his family, he has to place his in others - Abraham Setrakian and Vas the exterminator. His ex-wife Kelly has 'turned' and is determined to gain control of their son - something Eph must prevent at any cost.

A cliffhanger ending - what hope do the 'ancients' hold for the survival of man?

Guess we'll have to wait for instalment #3.

Check out the scary website here ..

The project - Brian Falkner

I am a great fan of Falkner's writing - I loved Brain Jack and the Tomorrow Code , however
The Project takes a look back in time as opposed to taking us into the future!

When Tommy and Luke are set a challenge of reading the 'most boring book in the world' they do not realise the adventure is about to begin. The story takes them into the scientific world of Leonardo da Vinci and a book that could change the world forever. Luckily only one copy of this book was ever published - but there are people who will stop at nothing to get it!

Fast paced action blended with a little historical knowledge and Falkner's science fiction trademark slant!

You can check out what Brian Falkner himself has to say here

Artemis Fowl and the Atlantis Complex - Eion Colfer

My kids love these books - but I found this one a little weaker than the previous installments.

Artemis' exposure to too much fairy magic has left him susceptible to the 'Atlantis Complex' - basically a nice alter ego appears - Orion.

The usual attack from evil forces is combined with some pro action wrestling, a bit of romance for Artemis and series of new inventions.

I think 'die hard' young fans will still enjoy the story line.

Hunger - Michael Grant

Dark, scary at times and a psychological thriller - this is definitely a book for the mature teen reader. Hunger is the second novel in the Gone series - a supernatural fantasy about a world of Perdido Beach now known as the FAYZ - where everyone over the age of 15 has disappeared and the remaining kids struggle to survive. Some of the kids have an array of supernatural and peculiar powers. Sam struggles to provide leadership in a town where no adults have survived and where the necessities of life are in short supply.

The archetype and sinister struggle between good and evil reminds us that evil lives inside even the most innocent.

You can check out the fanwebsite here ..if you dare.

The Road - Cormac McCarthy

After reading The Road in some Level 3 exam essays the last couple of years, I decided I'd better read it. As a fan of science fiction, this post apocalyptic novel appealed. The bleak view of the world presented is tempered only by the unwavering love the father has for his son.

I cannot imagine what the film will be like - other than that Viggo will be powerful as the father.
You can read more about The Road and McCarthy here .

I couldn't put it down. Powerful Level 3 essays too.

Tunnels and Deeper by Roderick Gordon and Brian Williams

I have recently read both of these - and was very impressed with the both the fast paced action of the novels and the unusual storyline of the set. The third book in the series Falling is yet to be released.

Will Burrows, main character, is drawn into the fantastic world that exists deep beneath the streets of London in an attempt to locate hos step-father. He soon discovers that the underground world he stumbles upon is both very sinister and very familiar. As he ventures deeper into the abyss he encounters many strange creatures and exiles from the world above.

This set is best suited to the more mature junior reader. I really enjoyed them - but I do enjoy science fiction!