“Carter here.”

From Rick Riordan’s Kane Chronicles: The Throne of Fire.

Carter and Sadie Kane are siblings that have had their world recently turned upside down; finally back together after they were separated following their mother’s death, the pair have also been introduced to the many gods, monsters, and creatures of Ancient Egypt.  Turns out that the Kane kids have some powers that have been passed down from the House of Life, which was a society of magicians that battled against evil throughout Egypt’s history.  While Sadie and Carter have their moments of magical success, the newest members of the Brooklyn House (magician school/safe haven) still struggle to understand their new abilities; they only have the help of a mysterious uncle, some young magicians, and a few helpful gods.  Apophis (the serpent of Chaos) is about to be released onto the world unless the Kanes can find the Book of Ra and the currently-missing Ra (god of the Sun)… which would be easy if they had more than a few days to complete a quest that has every kind of mythical Egyptian creature trying to stop them.  So again, the safety of the world has been set in Carter and Sadie’s hands, and the Kanes aren’t the type to let the world go without a fight.

Riordan once again brings his characters to life through sarcasm, wit, and blatant honesty.  All the characters from the first book are brought back and further developed, which only helps to make the world of the Kanes come to life.  As a book in a series, it builds very well off the foundation laid by the first book and it also helps pave the way for the following book.  Riordan handles the confusion of the Ancient Egyptian mythology well and connects it to the modern world in ways that are fun and believable.  Throne of Fire is an story that is definitely equal parts fun, action, and heart for readers of all ages.