The Rise of the Black Wolf

Title:  The Rise of the Black Wolf
           Grey Griffins Book 2

By:     Derek Benz & J. S. Lewis

Published:  2007

Pages:  303

Opening lines:  "Avalon, Minnesota, lay in the snowy plains of Middle America.  A fresh winter rain had swept across the land, covering every tree limb, street sign, and electrical wire with a wrapper of gleaming ice.  And when the sun managed to poke through the clouds, the entire town seemed to sparkle."

Description: The four best-friend team of Max, Natalia, Harley, and Ernie make up the Grey Griffins.  Their upcoming Christmas break is about to get very adventurous as they travel to Scotland to spend time with Max's father.  The private jet that takes them there is just one of the many perks they have to look forward to.  This luxurious vacation can't stay perfect for long though as a band of werewolves is after them! 

Favorite Lines: "For a long moment, he looked into the mirror as images appeared, slowly swirling about before assembling in ghostly visions of his best friends, the Grey Griffins.  Max turned around to see if the others were really there, but they weren't of course.  They all looked so happy in the reflection.  Then the green hills of Avalon rolled in the distance beyond.  He could see the bright flags of King's Elementary snapping in the wind, and Max caught sight of the tree house his father had built for the Grey Griffins' headquarters.  Relief filled Max, and the worries of the moment melted away."  ~ page 287

My Thoughts: This book was a real delight to read!  It didn't take long to notice a slight similarity to J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series (the earlier books).  This book seemed a little more accessible though, which I really enjoyed.  The co-authors Benz and Lewis took the time to explain what was going on as the Grey Griffins lived out their adventure.  I would definitely recommend this book, and I look forward to checking out the first in the series, The Revenge of the Shadow King.  

There is a moderated comments section on this blog.  Please feel free to let me know if you check out either of them!  Talk to you soon!


xoxo,  
Kelly