Fantasy Book Review: The Rising

The Rising by Kelley Armstrong

Synopsis:
Things are getting desperate for Maya and her friends. Hunted by the powerful St. Clouds and now a rival Cabal as well, they’re quickly running out of places to hide. And with the whole world thinking they died in a helicopter crash, it’s not like they can just go to the authorities for help. All they have is the name and number of someone who might be able to give them a few answers. Answers to why they’re so valuable, and why their supernatural powers are getting more and more out of control.

But Maya is unprepared for the truths that await her. And now, like it or not, she’ll have to face down some demons from her past if she ever hopes to move on with her life. Because Maya can’t keep running forever.

Review:
Following the events in the previous book, Maya and a couple of her friends are still on the run and trying to track down someone to help them from outside the Cabal. The teens have finally learned the truth about themselves and the huge conspiracy. Now, they need to make decisions about their futures.

The Rising is the third and final installment in the Darkness Rising trilogy. The suspense and fast-paced adventure makes this sequel an exciting YA fantasy that’s hard to put down. The teen angst/romance had its place at times with a love triangle that forces Maya to reevaluate feelings. I wasn’t exactly happy with the outcome, simply because I didn’t feel the chemistry between the characters. But that could just be me. Events come to a head in a climactic ending that wraps up nicely. This is an enjoyable and distinctive fantasy trilogy of shape-shifters and other mythological creatures fused with thrilling intrigue.