Review: Still strong writing, but not as good as Good Intentions
Rating: 3 out of 5
Date: 09 17, 2013
This sequel to Good Intentions picks up right where that one left off and in many ways tries to deal with the fallout that the climax of Good Intentions generated.it's a good idea and Elliot clearly was in tune with his main characters as he wrote this.  They fit the story and the plot quite well.Unfortunately, the rest of the tale isn't as strong.First some characters vanish from this tale after being significant in the first book.  Part of this is the direction this story takes, but it still was a bit disappointing to not see a few characters.Second, after the climax of the first book one of the characters makes a statement that rinds true, but 90% of the plot in Natural Consequences only works when that statement is proved completely, utterly and incomprehensibly false.  There are 3 "villain" groups in this tale and the presence of 2 of them makes little sense when you consider the entire situation.  Their being involved did help push the plot and the climax of Natural Consequences could not occur if they don't show up, but I couldn't believe that they'd be as involved as they were.It's still an excellent story and fun to read.  I just with the plot had been more tied to the first story and a lot stronger overall.  There are a few too many McGuffins used to keep the plot moving, and the development of character and story never felt right.  It's a step down from Good Intentions