No way can the second book of a series be as good as the first. But it is. Not just a place holder, but a bona fide page turner. The story continues to develop as do the characters. The Electriclan kids' powers are practiced and develop even further. Michael Vey becomes the accidental leader and, I love this, he is flawed. Not only is he flawed, but he's still a kid and often wants to go back to a simpler time.

Read the first book before this one. Although I think a reader will catch onto the gist, it's worth the time to get the background story. Honestly, I forgot how the kids became electric. I think they were staying in some hospital at the time that a new doo-hickey was being tested. A lot of babies died but those that didn't die developed neuro-electric currents that could be channeled and used for good or evil. It all depends on who is in control - Dr. Hatch or free agency.

The action is nonstop. Those who have chosen to split from Dr. Hatch (including the three guinea pigs) are trying to evade recapture. They are also finding how long Dr. Hatch's arm really is in the larger world. The storyline is clever and original. For being science fiction - it makes a lot of sense and scared me. Just a little bit. Don't worry. I can still sleep at night.

Language and sex - clean
Violence - Strong with disturbing torture implements (thank you, Dr. Hatch)

I would give it to my 12 year son and he would enjoy it. In fact, all of my children (including my husband) would enjoy this book. It is genius.

One caveat - I am mad at the author. He came to my Costco and was so inundated with fans, he didn't acknowledge me. Not that I stood in line for his signed copy. I expected his neuro-electrical transmitters to sense a diehard reviewer and fan.

Alas, he is not Michael Vey.