When the adults mysteriously fall sick, it’s up to telekinetic Roz Dalton and her motley collection of burgeoning teen superheroes to defend the world against the machinations of the Helotry, a shadowy organization dedicated to returning the deadly Fifth King, an ancient superhuman that fought for the Assyrians against Egypt 5,000 years ago, to power. Packed with extended fighting scenes, soaring flights and vicious battles of wit, Carroll’s adventure honors the best of superhero narratives. The empowered teens take to their powers quickly, with any turmoil over the use of their abilities happening off the page, which keeps the momentum going. However, a disposable romance and the author's heavy hand in portraying moral absolutism hamper the overall tale. The supervillains appear disconnected from their nature; they are reluctant to use their abilities, making their ruthless reputations undeserved. Though this may help propel the plot, the author provides insufficient character back story to support such a contradiction. Decently executed superhero fare, but it doesn’t rise up, up and away. (Action. YA)
