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THE FLAME OF OLYMPUS by Kate O'Hearn

THE FLAME OF OLYMPUS

From the Pegasus series, volume 1

by Kate O'Hearn

Pub Date: May 22nd, 2012
ISBN: 978-1-4424-4409-6
Publisher: Aladdin

A young girl, a flying horse and threats from evil creatures both ancient and modern: This British import has all the necessary ingredients for success.

In the midst of a New York City thunderstorm an injured flying horse lands on the roof of Emily’s building. Emily, still mourning her recently deceased mother, is immediately drawn to the creature, and she pulls in a classmate, angry Joel, for help. Pegasus has fled the Nirads, nearly invincible creatures that have attacked Olympus and extinguished the Vestal Flame that keeps it safe. Also on the run is minor Olympian thief Paelen. The action moves back and forth from Emily and Joel, whose story soon becomes high octane as Nirads attack and Olympian goddess Diana appears, and Paelen, who has been imprisoned by evil government agency CRU. Despite a moderately paced beginning, this is ultimately a fast yet emotionally satisfying chase novel: CRU wants Emily, Pegasus and Diana must find the girl who can rekindle the flame and the Nirads just want destruction. Characters are perhaps too good to be true (Emily and Joel’s bravery, Emily’s father’s willingness to believe and help), but the violence—especially from the CRU agent— and various emotional arcs makes the tale feel convincingly real.

First in an energetic series aimed at Percy Jackson fans and sure to hit the mark.

(Fantasy. 10-13)