BOOK REVIEW: The Battle for Verdana by Brett Salter

The Battle for Verdana

Series: The Talisman, Book 4

Author: Brett Salter

Genre: Middle-Grade / YA Fantasy / Adventure

Publication Date: 23rd July 2020

Book Description:

What’s REALLY hiding in the forests of the Pacific Northwest? Could it be The Tyrant King’s army of Darkbrands? Could it be more of Mr. Jones’s liaisons? Or could it be the solution to the problem vexing our favorite heroes? Whatever mystery it is, you can guarantee the boys from Georgia are sure to find themselves deep in the thick of it.

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK

BOOK SUMMARY

Since losing their powers, Rome and Julian have been feeling out of sorts, especially Rome, who feels trapped in his human form. The boys can't perform any function until they find one of the Talismans and perform The Great Synergy. With the threat of their enemies ever increasing and with there being a possible Nocturne possessing a member of their group, will they find a Talisman in time to save the world? The boys hope to find answers as they head to the forests of the Pacific Northwest where they've been informed a Talisman, said to have been used by the great King Arthur himself, is located.

Will the boys luck out or is someone luring them into a trap?

WHAT I LIKED

As expected, the book is non-stop action and adventure, so there was never a dull moment. I liked that we learn a little more about some characters, particularly Julian, so to better understand his personality, which I am a big fan of, as Julian is one of my favourite characters. As Rome said, he is definitely SPECIAL.

I liked the inclusion of new characters. We delve a little deeper in the world of dragons in this portion of the series. Knowing the rules and how things work helps a lot with the world-building element of the story. I liked the fact that although you never quite know if you can trust new characters until after going on an adventure with them there are moments that instil distrust and suspicion in the readers that put you on guard for anything. You never know which way it's going to go, which is exciting and keeps you reading on.

I find the romance between Rome and Krysta, though a very slow burner, to be quite romantic and sweet. It would be nice to see Julian romantically connected with another character. I think that would be quite chaotic in a comedic way.

WHAT I DISLIKED

I don't think I learned a great deal more about the enemy the gang is facing from the previous chapter to now, which I was hoping to do, but with Rome and Julian lacking behind in the power department, I wasn't surprised the focus would shift to them trying to gain back their abilities.

I found there was a lot more telling than showing in this book than the previous, which I found surprising as, having read four books now, I'm used to rich dialogue when it comes to showcasing character personality and trait.

I didn't like the direct address to the reader in the Prologue. I don't mind the breaking the fourth wall technique, but it just felt out of place here.

VERDICT:

Another great adventure full of mystery and intrigue. It's a fun read for all.

RATING:

Source: Author