John Barrowman

For full disclosure, the only reason I bought this book was because I love John Barrowman. I'm glad I did, though, because it was an interesting and new type of middle-grade fantasy. The premise was very original and I'll probably pick up the second book when it comes out later this year just to get more of the world building.

Unfortunately, I wasn't as enamored by the actual story as I was by the world-building. I found Matt extremely annoying and almost put the book down within the first few chapters because he was such an epic brat. He got better as the book goes on, but his sullen rebellious act got old. Half of the trouble the twins got into would have been avoided if he'd actually listened to the adults, or his sister.… (more)

https://nwhyte.livejournal.com/3385685.html

Unfortunately I haven't read the Torchwood novel Exodus Code, which I think this is a loose sequel to; lots of fun stuff happens, including Captain John Hart (as portrayed by James "Spike" Marsters) taking over the original Victorian-era Torchwood estate, and some gorgeous art with some nice nods to the show (and one or two nods to Doctor Who). But it's only the first part of an ongoing narrative, and who knows when I'll get another chance to visit Forbidden Planet...… (more)