Our Contest (Bystanders #4)

 

Author Phillip Murrell Provided a print copy of Our Contest : Bystanders #4 for review.

The final book in the Bystander series certainly does not disappoint. 

Too many main characters to focus on here, many individual storylines interwoven with the main story. It is difficult for me to even call it a good versus evil story. From the Earth peoples viewpoint certainly the "Malignant" are evil. But taking a view of the ongoing "contest" between the combatants lead by Father and those lead by Mother kind of erases those distinctions for me. 

Great for fans of technology, mythology, over the top action and intricate story-telling. So, Father and Mother seem to be playing out this contest throughout the universe and the final conflict is to take place on earth. Lucky earth. 

With six weeks to go before that battle, we see all the various characters prepare and continues to works towards their individual goals while they can. For me, the story started a bit slow. Probably because I hate waiting. But when the stuff actually hits the fan, WOW! The action is intense and nonstop. Loved it. 

Author Murrell does a good job of tying up all the loose ends. I like that. I had no "But what about ..." questions. A very good conclusion to a wildly inventive series. I recommend it if you want a lot of action, crime, drama, politics, well, you name it genre wise it is probably here. Enjoy!

Mike

Gabriella Gigabyte: Secret of the King Cobra

I won a print copy of  Gabriella Gigabyte: Secret of the King Cobra in a Goodreads Giveaway.

This book is directed at young teens or earlier and hits that mark well. Our heroine Gabriella is, among other things, a computer wiz. She often spends time in her father's shop solving computer problems no one else can. 

As with most books of this genre, Gabriella Gigabyte: Secret of the King Cobra highlights the abilities of the children over their parents or other adults. The positive difference for me is that adults in this book are not ineffectual clowns. Dad isn't a buffoon, mom is not a clueless socialite. They are both quite the opposite. A good balance. There are quite a few twists that surprised even an adult reader like me.

Gabriella, in true heroine fashion, does find clues and answers using her own gifts and abilities. Over all a fun and uplifting story that does not denigrate the family but supports it. Very refreshing. I give it top marks as a book targeted to a younger audience. Enjoy!

Mike