For most of his life, Larinan Mann has struggled to fit in. He has been born against the rules of his society into a world where difference is to be scorned, even feared. His father is the head of an important government agency, and Larinan is expected to follow him into this career. But Larinan doesn’t care about genetic research. The problem is, he doesn’t know what it is he does care about.
When Lari’s only friend, Kes, takes him on an adventure into a part of the city they are not authorised to visit, he discovers the terror of the murky underworld, and unexpectedly finds himself owing someone there an unspecified favour. On the same day, his father and brother make a discovery which could change Larinan’s life – and that of the whole city – forever.
Skyfall is the second title in the outstanding Darklands Trilogy. Set in the distant future, it explores a world which has attempted to adapt to climate change and the challenges of an uninhabitable Earth by building massive sky cities, where people live in domes attached to massive towers sheltered from the sun’s rays, and living in an insulated world. This world, though, is now under threat of collapse, and the young characters who represent the possibility of a continued survival must face challenges which are seemingly insurmountable.
This is young adult fantasy which is challenging and absorbing. The world is alien enough to intrigue, but familiar enough for readers to connect with. The action is fast paced and the characters both diverse and believable.
Recommended for readers aged 13 to adult.
Skyfall , by Anthony Eaton
UQP, 2007
This book can be purchased online at Fishpond. Buying through this link supports Aussiereviews.