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salston's review against another edition
5.0
This is an excellent, very fast moving series that I recommend you read all at once. All of the characters are drawn from history or mythology with the exception of a set of twins at the center of the whole thing. I had to wait a full year between each of the last three, and it was a hard wait. I think reading it all together would keep the momentum going.
kiki6k's review against another edition
5.0
Scott weaves a captivating tapestry of fantasy in this first installment. The familiar theme of good versus evil is given a fresh spin through the inclusion of ancient myths and legends, all set against a modern-day California backdrop.
At the heart of the story are 15-year-old twins, Josh and Sophie, who discover they possess unexpected magical abilities.Prophecies and ancient texts intertwine with thrilling action as the twins are thrust into a battle against malevolent forces.
Despite the epic scale, Scott skillfully balances the grand adventure with relatable characters and vivid descriptions. He masterfully blends historical figures like Nicholas and Perenelle Flamel with mythological beings, creating a rich and diverse world.
For fans of mythology, this is a treasure trove. The author seamlessly combines well-known myths with lesser-known ones, sparking curiosity and a sense of discovery.
This is a fast-paced and action-packed story that lays the groundwork for a thrilling series. While some readers might prefer deeper character development, the book's focus on adventure, myth, and world-building is truly captivating.
shaila_m's review against another edition
4.0
There is a lot that is happening in this book and there is some confusion, but I guess with the following book(s) more things will be clear... Nevertheless it is a good book and kept me hooked.
logan08's review against another edition
4.0
I really liked this book, until I got close to the end. Josh was such an idiot, in my opinion, listening to that evil, lying, no good John Dee. I know that he was mad at everything, even his sister, but still!!! What person in their right mind would think that Nicolas Flamel is the bad guy in this story? I mean it was John Dee who killed the world tree, is working for the Dark Elders. Before that though, the boom was really good. I'm already halfway through the second book, and I am loving it.
t_dolezalova's review
adventurous
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.75
daphx00's review against another edition
4.0
The story is about Josh and Sophie Newman and Nicholas Flamel, the famous alchemyst. They're on the run because Dr. Dee wants the last two pages of the book of Abraham the Mage, which holds the secret of eternal life. Josh has managed to rip out the two most important pages before the book was stolen. But now, they're being chased by things they didn't even consider possible.
It's been a while since I've read it (3 years), but I really liked the story. It's filled with action and magic. I love magic..
It's been a while since I've read it (3 years), but I really liked the story. It's filled with action and magic. I love magic..
susiblueberry's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
informative
lighthearted
mysterious
relaxing
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
It was a nice book. Going to start the second one soon!
Definetly recommended!
Definetly recommended!
paige87's review against another edition
3.0
I read this entire book thinking the author had pulled the idea of Nicholas Flamel and the Philosopher's Stone from Harry Potter. I felt really silly when I discovered - after finishing the book - that Nicholas Flamel was a real person, and legends surrounding him are much older than 1997! Knowing this definitely makes me appreciate the author's world building a lot more.
The story itself had me sitting on the fence. I didn't dislike this one, but I didn't love it either. Characters were passable and it had a decent plot. But for some reason I wasn't completely drawn in. I give it three stars - right in the middle.
I will read book two because I already own it, and who knows. It might surprise me.
The story itself had me sitting on the fence. I didn't dislike this one, but I didn't love it either. Characters were passable and it had a decent plot. But for some reason I wasn't completely drawn in. I give it three stars - right in the middle.
I will read book two because I already own it, and who knows. It might surprise me.