NOX WINTERS AND THE STYGIAN SERPENT

Nox Winters is determined never to return to the Nightwood.

The danger-filled forest of perpetual darkness in Evergreen, Maine, nearly killed Nox’s beloved twin brother, Noah, during their adventures nine months earlier. But the Nightwood has other plans for the boys, whose father, the Evergreen Devil, has supernatural powers. When their friend Violet’s mother and other members of her hidden community go missing, and their people are threatened by undead creatures, the twins and their friends embark on a quest to save their allies, facing magical challenges reminiscent of games like chess and capture the flag. The world of the Nightwood remains joyously, wildly creative, as exemplified by the supernatural mysteries that populate the forest. Nox and company face off against Forta (the “lord of good fortune in games, contest, and sport”), frost soldiers, a giant serpent, and a fearsome three-eyed blacksmith. All the while, Nox’s discomfort with his new fire powers contrasts nicely with Noah’s enjoyment of his plant magic. The twins are endearing protagonists, as are their friends: nature-loving Thea, responsible Violet, and easygoing Nine, who has wings. Hassan is skilled at combining nonstop, well-executed action sequences with artful descriptions without losing a strong sense of fun. Most of the main cast reads white, and the previous book established that Violet has light brown skin.

An energetic and inventive sequel.