Review Detail

Reader reviewed by Kris

I would have to say Scott Westerfeld has started off the Midnighters series well. Though for the first few chapters, I had begun to lose interest, this feeling did not last for long.

Anyway, The Secret Hour is about a girl named Jessica who has just moved to Bixby, Oklahoma from Chicago. Right away, she is noticed by a group of fellow high school students. However, what makes them unique is the fact they were are born at midnight. This allows them to exist for an additional hour each day; a twenty-fifth hour, the blue time. When Jess arrives, this is no longer a peaceful time. Shes seemed to stir up the slithers and other creatures of the blue time. Also, while everyone else in this group has obvious powers, Jess has none. This book revolves around Jess learning and the discovery of her special talent.

So&my opinions on this book. Contrary to what a lot of other book divas have said, I really liked this. Maybe its because I could never say a fantasy or sci-fi book was bad. Yes, I believe it could have gone a little faster in the beginning and that it dragged on slightly. However, I was anxious enough to find out about Jess that I didnt seem to mind.

I think it was also interesting to read with the whole 13 thing. Now I find myself looking for thirteen letter words when reading. Sad, huh?

I also loved the cover. It was really neat looking, and draws you towards it. When I first looked at it, I didnt really understand some parts. However, after finishing the book, the cover actually links a lot of things together.

Overall, I would rate this 4-½ out of 5 stars. A couple parts confused me, and the beginning could have drawn me in more, but it was fascinating to read. It ends with such a cliffhanger, I wish the next in the series was already out. Guess Ill just have to wait.

Reprinted here with author's permission.