Fort Fitzgerald is back for another adventure at the Oppenheimer school, and this time, the stakes are higher than ever. The last time we saw him, Fort and his friends were chasing the remaining books of magic while still studying at the Oppenheimer school. Now, he’s plagued by nightmares of his father’s disappearance and haunted by visions of the Old Ones, evil creatures that demand the location of the last dragon. Fort and his friends are the only ones with any chance of keeping the Old Ones from wreaking havoc, but at a school filled with military operatives and mysterious roommates, is there anyone they can trust?
James Riley returns with a fantastic second edition to the Revenge of Magic series, where magic is used exclusively by kids and regulated by the government. Fort is logical, ambitious, and just impulsive enough to pull off the stunts needed to save the world from unspeakable evil. His friends make up the perfect ensemble cast, with hilarious banter and harebrained schemes that will keep you engaged throughout the story.
This sequel keeps up the stakes of the first novel, with a twisted plot that’s sure to enchant. Fort’s quest is juxtaposed with his obsessive visions of his father and his own development as a young magic-user. His character grows by volumes as he learns not to trust the authorities and rely on his friends and his gut to lead him to the last dragon. The addition of Gabriel as a character adds even more mystery to the story. Riley builds even more upon the lore of the first book, introducing even more magical creatures and legends to explain them. The continued handling of magic by the government is brought into question again, exploring the possibility of magic in a modern America and its inevitable clash with institution. It’s a fascinating tale that leaves you on the edge of your seat.
Young readers and lovers of Harry Potter or the Splurch Academy series are sure to enjoy this riveting tale of magic, secrets, and monsters under the earth. The Last Dragon, by James Riley, officially hits bookstores on October 8, so be sure to grab your copy!
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher, Simon & Schuster, for review.
