Review: Yes ... But
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 04 23, 2014
If you have not read the first book I strongly advise you to do that as it necessary to fully understand and enjoy this one. You may of course disregard my warning and in doing so deprive yourself. Even reading the reviews of the second book without the experience of having read the first will detract from not only discovering the Author's work in the proper manner but demonstrate your lack of character.  ***** Continue only if you have read the first book ***** OK I am my own person (you know who you are) SUIT YOURSELF.Yes I gave this Book (?)  four stars.... Amazon does not allow partial ratings and it deserves more than three.[The Bad] I liked this offering but as many have pointed out it is a bit short and most readers in general felt unsatisfied at the seemingly rushed ending.[The Good] Again there is a balance between two main [ related ] plot lines (A) Waldo and his Quest and (B) His mother Lilith and the country of  Alteroth. There is also a balance between high adventure and low humor.Unlike like many I felt both the  (A) plot line and Waldo advanced, keep in mind several things Waldo is male and is sixteen; he has been extremely sheltered and has had no real exposure to the larger world; the elapsed time is at most but a few months [summer has not turned to winter. He is not only learning about Alice, relationships (etc.) but himself. Strangely, I think both Gronk and Cleptus will help him in his development. Note he now has three companions with different skills and worldviews. He has obtained a magical weapon. He has gained experience how long before (if) that translates to useful wisdom is unknown.In regards to the other (B) plotline many I feel are overlooking a larger storyline (i.e.) the conflict between Avalon and Alteroth and the (IMO) role Waldo  has to play on that stage. Plus I like Lilith and the characters and subplots, history etc., surrounding her. That thread also has some  (very dark) humor of it's own.As for Melissa I think her true value to the story is still developing and she is more interesting that the current  limited view gives her credit.In closing I agree it is short much more a short story to introduce new ideas, characters, develop plotlines, fill in characters back stories etc., and to appease the readers. I just hope the Author does not make this the standard for the continuation of the "Saga".Hopefully Waldo and cast will outgrow the level of humor