Descendant

June 15, 2013
Livingston delivers a significantly stronger story--and heroine--in this sequel to Starling (2012). It opens where the first book ended, with readers learning the Fennrys Wolf has survived various dangers while Mason Starling has been transported to Asgard, home of the Norse gods. Fenn is determined to find Mason and prevent her from taking up the Odin spear, which would transform her into a Valkyrie and set Ragnarok, the Norse apocalypse, in motion. Each chapter brings a perspective shift, and readers switch among Fenn, Mason and other characters' adventures before the two are reunited, just in time. The pair return to our world and two startling discoveries that bring the Greek gods into the mix (the Egyptians are there too) and up the ante significantly. It's up to Fenn and Mason to make things right, but in doing so, they may just be playing into the hands of prophecy. Despite the serpentine plot, those unfamiliar with the first installment should have a relatively simple time following this action-packed story, and though Fenn still acts as her savior, Mason is noticeably stronger than before, making the climax more believable. Those who've been awaiting this sequel should be pleased. (Paranormal romance. 14 & up)

COPYRIGHT(2013) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

February 1, 2014

Gr 8 Up-The story of Mason Starling continues in this absorbing, fast-paced novel that mixes Norse and Eyptian mythology across a New York City backdrop. Mason survives the destruction of Hell's Gate bridge, which spans New York's East River, and finds herself in Asgard, the Norse Underworld, longing to return to the ones she loves. Rescued once again by the handsome and heroic Fennrys Wolf, the teen recognizes her romantic feelings for the Viking. She learns of the prophecy about her becoming the Valkyrie who raises the Spear of Odin to bring about Ragnarok, or the Twilight of the Gods. Will Mason and Fennrys be able to stop the coming destruction of the world as they know it? Told from multiple perspectives, this second entry of the thrilling "Starling" series (HarperCollins) will fascinate fans of mythology, romance, and high energy plots. Livingston has a deft hand, and readers will be anxiously anticipating this story's final installment.-Kathy Kirchoefer, Henderson County Public Library, NC

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 1, 2014
In this sequel to Starling, Mason finds herself trapped in the Norse world of Asgard. Her boyfriend, Fenn, rescues her and they join a crew of gods, demigods, and humans to prevent the prophesied end of the world. Well-informed readers of mythology may enjoy this exciting story stuffed with complex uses of it, but many will be left confused.

(Copyright 2014 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)