The Beyonders series by Brandon Mull

Jason and Rachel, middle-school-aged strangers from Washington and Colorado, find themselves in a mysterious new world, Lyrian. They learn that they have been summoned as heroes with the potential to save Lyrian, which has nearly been conquered by ruthless Emperor Maldor. Feeling under-qualified and far from anyone's hero, Jason and Rachel embark on a perilous quest that could either lead to their own destruction or save the world.

I very much enjoyed this adventure. I love Brandon Mull's Fablehaven books; Beyonders is similar in the fantasy and magic but written for a slightly more mature audience, which I liked. Throughout the series I was somewhat skeptical of how Jason, a completely average 13-year old kid, could save Lyrian; it seemed a little far-fetched. However, by the end, I was won over and actually inspired by how a normal, even unremarkable, person can effect change for the better. It doesn't take a powerful person to have a positive impact on the world around them. This should be a lesson for everyone to not sit idly through life; take a stand and change your world for the better! Anywho, I'll get off my soapbox, but I liked how Mull's characters were relatable, everyday people who have the courage to do what's right. Really the only negative I have with these books is about the pace of the story, which seemed to drag at times. Overall, fun, adventurous stories that both kids and adults will enjoy!

4 out of 5 stars

The Heroes of Olympus series by Rick Riordan

If you've read the Percy Jackson series and enjoyed it, you'll definitely like The Heroes of Olympus. This series picks up not too far after the Percy Jackson series ends; the gods are at war with their two selves, their Greek against their Roman aspects. We are introduced to an entirely new Roman camp of demigods that has been kept secret from the Greek Camp Half-Blood, due to the Greeks' and Romans' inability to get along. The ancient Gaea, aka Mother Earth, is awakening and seeks to control the world. In order to heal the gods and thwart Gaea's rise to power, the Greek and Roman demigods must learn to work together.

Lots of action, humor, and fascinating mythology. I really enjoyed these books and loved the characters. I've always liked Greek mythology and I love how these books help teach old stories to a new generation of readers in such a fun way. I've seen that Rick Riordan has also written a series that goes into Egyptian mythology, which I know hardly anything about but think would be absolutely fascinating to read. They're called the Kane Chronicles, if anyone wants to go look them up. Overall I can definitely recommend this fun series!!

4.5 out of 5 stars