Cole's adventures continue in this third book, here set in the technologically advanced Zeropolis. With old friends and new allies, he searches for another of the High King's daughters. Unexpected twists and shocking revelations round out the exciting story, which maintains the series' brisk pace. While his world-within-a-world concept isn't new, Mull's execution of it is engaging. (c) Copyright 2015. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Gr 5-8-After defeating Morgassa, Cole Randolph, Dalton, Jace, and Mira are on their way to Zeropolis. Hoping to find Mira's other sister, Constance, the group joins forces with the Unseen, the kingdom's rebels. With the High King's Enforcers and their mysterious leader, the Hunter, getting really good at finding them, however, Cole and his friends are having trouble evading their pursuers. Their only hope is to find Mira's mom and get Constance's location. Mull capably mixes internal and external dialogue with a hint of humor. Narrator Keith Nobbs complements well Mull's well-developed plot with his unique voices and narration, bringing depth to the action and mystery/suspense scenes while staying true to the character dynamics of the story. VERDICT This engaging listen will be hard for fantasy fans to put down, particularly if they've enjoyed the first two books in the series.-Kira Moody, Whitmore Public Library, Salt Lake City © Copyright 2015. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Fresh off their victory at the end of Rogue Knight (2014), Cole Randolph and his ragtag band of friends return in this third and hotly anticipated novel in the Five Kingdoms series. Exploring the third kingdom, a place of dream and nightmare called Zeropolis, they're called on to defend themselves with illusions and magic weapons, running from Enforcers and the fearsome City Patrol. With new friends like Sidekick to introduce them to new training techniques, they might actually get through the city alive if the High King doesn't catch them first. Secrets and robots fly fast and furious in this new and technological wonder of a city, and even when things go terribly wrong, Cole steadfastly keeps up the fight for freedom, both for himself and for all the lost kids in the Outskirts. Mull's just-intense-enough fantasy world continues to be a thrill ride full of magical items every reader will want for himself or herself. The best part of the series is Cole, an easy entry point with whom readers will likely relate.--Comfort, Stacey Copyright 2015 Booklist