A review by lonelyasfranz
The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Riddle of Ages by Trenton Lee Stewart

3.0

I’ll admit, I was not expecting to enjoy this. The series seemed to be steadily declining, but with Riddle of the Ages, it moved sharply back up. The Prisoner’s Dilemma was terrible, but this was almost as good as the first and second books, though it wasn’t nearly as fascinating. The setting was much darker, and the potential adventure and oddity were therefore limited, but the author did a great job, considering what he had to work with. Nevertheless, some parts of it were dull and even confusing, but it was overall thoroughly entertaining, and there was character development that was entirely absent from TPD. Mr. Benedict was not so holy, as well, and the concept of Curtain’s character was much improved.
Overall, 3.5 stars and my third-favorite of the series (so far). Solid bronze, not bad, though a glastanium medal might be more appropriate.