This book seemed slow at first but picked up quickly, and when I reminded myself that it was a YA book I began to really enjoy it. It was a good mix of fantasy about the secret society and the temptations within, as well as the interactions within the family and between them and the other characters. Most of the characters, even Calvin, weren’t always very likeable at times, but they seemed true to life. This was such a dysfunctional family: as the history unfolded it made it a bit easier to understand, and Calvin’s anger, frustration and sense of responsibility come clearly through. I was angry myself with his father, but also with his mother because she was not able to be stronger and take better care of her children, and with his grandfather because of his actions. It would have been nice to hear a little more from Cleo’s point of view rather than just using her discovery as a jumping off point for Calvin’s story, because she surely was as affected by the family dynamics as Calvin.

It was fast-paced and held my attention throughout. I would recommend this book for all audiences, but particularly YA. ( )

Calvin hates his father. He's an alcoholic and has made everyone miserable for years. Now that he's gone, all Calvin wants to do is relax. His instinct is to protect his family, though, so that's hard to do. Then Mom suggests they go visit their late grandfather's estate and take a few weeks to rejuvenate. Calvin thinks that's a great idea; it's not...

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This is a fantasy novel about long lost doors that open with a special key to grant you special powers. When you step inside and lay down, you come out altered. The temptation is just too much to resist for most people. When Calvin's sister finds the key buried in the yard, Calvin is immediately tempted.

Ms. Stephens gives you a secret society with an ancient leader, special powers, pills to sustain life, and deep danger for the young ones pursuing their grandfather's dream. She also creates family tension by having their father return. He's dry now, but Calvin doesn't believe it. Calvin jumps right back into protecting his sister, but she wants to give their Dad a chance. Calvin doesn't, but he hasn't much choice when the secret society is coming after him.

There's plenty of action, some interesting lore, and two big challenges for Calvin. He's just a teenager and he's not sure about his choices, but he fights for right. What more can you ask from a young hero?

Happy reading. ( )

I have mixed feelings about this book. On the whole, the plot was good and the characters solid, but after really enjoying the first few chapters it was very disappointing to hit chapter upon chapter of exposition, which brought the whole story to a screeching halt.

The housekeeper was particularly frustrating, since she was one of those character who existed to drip feed information for reasons that never quite made sense within the novel. Equally, the father felt out of place for most of the novel - it seemed bizarre that everyone was okay with an abusive ex-alcoholic moving in with two minors completely unchaperoned. As the climax of the novel neared I hoped his purpose within the plot would become clear, but though he was useful to the twins he was never 100% necessary.

I did enjoy reading about the twins. Both felt realistic, especially their different approaches to dealing with the impact of their father on their lives. I wish we had spent more time in Cleo's head; only popping in occasionally while dwelling so much in Calvin's made it feels as though we only saw through her eyes when it was necessary for the plot, rather than for characterisation. Equally, I liked Natalie and her inner conflict, but it would have been nice to have more from her point of view as well.

Apart from the pacing issues the plot was solid and held my attention. I think with a little less exposition (there's no need to spread the background information across a newspaper, letter, tape, lawyer, and the housekeeper!) it would be a much tighter and more enjoyable novel, but overall I enjoyed it. ( )

This story had me from the beginning it captured my imagination and I couldn't stop reading it until I had finished. The intrigue and family loyalties. I could go on and on about it. I highly recommend this book to all!!! ( )

This book had my attention from the first chapter, it was an intriguing read full of adventure, family loyalty, deception and a mix of fantasy and paranormal. This was engaging and enjoyable read, with well-developed characters. ( )