I don’t usually like to read a sequel before reading the first book in a series because you tend to miss pertinent aspects of the story, however, that wasn’t really necessary when I picked up Moon Rise, the second book in the Unbidden Magic series.
Moon Rise by Marilee Brothers was a very good young adult novel that treats the reader to mystery and action, with a touch of paranormal. It follows the life of high school age Allie and her friends, as they attempt to solve the mysterious moonstone that Allie acquired in the first novel of the series, Moonstone.
Her mom’s still dating losers. Her boyfriend’s gone back to Mexico. Dad still hasn’t told his wife and kids that she exists. At school, the drama queens and bullies still rule. But worst of all for Allie Emerson–aka the Star Seeker of an old Gypsy prophecy–is that her powers have taken a hike. She can’t read minds anymore. She can’t move stuff just by looking at it. The other Star Seekers are counting on her psychic gifts more than ever, and the evil Tri-marks are closing in, eager to snatch her magic moonstone necklace while she’s helpless. The hot new guy at school is ready and willing to fight her battles, but he comes with some wicked baggage. Dear Diary: I’m a little worried. My new BF is a demon.
Welcome again to Allie Emerson’s funny, scary, amazing, and always unpredictable life, as the girl voted least likely to save the world from evil.
Allie seems like your typical teenage girl, except she has telekinetic abilities, and with the help of the moonstone, she can read people’s minds. She hooks up with the group called the Star Seekers, who are dedicated to protecting the moonstone from an evil group, the Trimarks. The fact that two of Allie’s friends are half demons with different types of powers adds a rich element to the adventure. It is refreshing to find a teen fantasy style adventure that has none of the worn out vampire clichés or witch-type characters so common in today’s works. The half demon aspect was especially satisfying since the characters shared typical teenage human emotions, mixed with some ‘special’ attributes to make them exciting and pertinent to the story.
You do not need to read the first novel Moonstone prior to Moon Rise, however, on several occasions I wished I had. Considering the former is where the moonstone is found, and Allie’s abilities are starting to come to light, there are a few other pertinent details that Moon Rise inherited that would probably be clarified. I will probably go back and read the first novel to pick up the details.
Moon Rise was not difficult to read and the story envelopes you with enough action and intrigue to keep it interesting, and there are no questionable content areas that would cause parents of the over 13 crowd to cringe. I would definitely recommend this book to young adults and adults alike who like a fun story with a little magic. Moon Rise leaves the reader satisfied, yet wanting more, and I would definitely pick up the next book in the series, Moon Spun.
Read Order:
Moonstone
Moon Rise
Moon Spun (June 2010)
I haven’t read the first one, but this sounds good. It sounds like reading Moonstone might be a better idea though. I think if I had the chance for a super power it would be telekinesis, how cool would that be.
For those looking to get their hands on Moonstone, I was told that from March 1st through the 15th, it’ll be available for free for the Kindle.
This sounds like a great read and one that I should check out! Great review and thanks for sharing your thoughts on it!