PUBLICATION DATE: MAY 2010

hen Whirlwind ended, the King family had finally learned from where and when in history Taksidian lived.  Unfortunately it turned out to be the legendary Atlantis, well known for its brutality and they happened to be visiting that nightmare of a place.  Xander was chained to a group of slave children, destined to be used as a decoy in battle and David was trapped between soldiers intent on enslaving him and a group of kids planning to beat him to a pulp.  Needless to say, the boys were once again trapped in a cruel world with only their quick minds and determination to find a way back to relative safety.  The city of Atlantis, is only the beginning though.  In the final book of the Dreamhouse King series, the King family once again faces harrowing adventures in the quest to find their mom and fix the future.

Wow….I only thought Whirlwind was as good as the series could get. Frenzy makes the previous books look like episodes of Barney.  Ok, so not really, but it is spectacular, with its heart pounding adventures and non-stop action.  Then again, this whole series has excelled at high-octane, intense, action sequences with barely enough time for the reader to catch their breath.  Believe it or not though, Frenzy kicked the action up another notch,

Throughout the series, Liparulo has graced us with some imaginative scenes and adventures from the past.  Not only has it brought history alive for the readers, it’s also given them a chance to contemplate the past relating to the future.  In this book, Liparulo finally pulls all those threads together and gives the reader a view of the picture he’s been painting.  All those brutal settings and harrowing adventures the King family has endured, does in fact have a point and a purpose.  I love how all these various pieces were finally put together.  It made a great series, even better.

I don’t think Liparulo could have picked a better setting for the King’s last journey through the portals.  I’d love to discuss it, with all the beauty the event represents, but unfortunately, that would spoil one of the best scenes in the series.  Let’s just say that the best is saved for last, and the delivery is really beyond words.

When I picked up House of Dark Shadows two years ago, I knew Liparulo had started a great series, that’s perfect for readers of all ages.  However, I could never have predicted how good this series would be, or how well he could continue to extend and heighten the drama.  It’s been a privilege to read these books and I’m glad it’s around for my kids to read.  Throughout, the reader is reminded of their place in history—their destiny.  It’s an important concept, regardless of age.  As I’ve said a hundred times since this series started, this is an awesome series.  To not read it is missing out on a wonderful adventure.  It’s an excellent story, with excellent writing, and excellent themes—all around outstanding.  I can’t wait for what Liparulo has lined up for the future.