Review Detail

Beacon Hill Trilogy #2, Secrets of the Highlands, begins about a month after the events of the first book. Jack’s body is slowly dying after Eden’s star was placed inside his chest. This situation allows ample time to slow the action down long enough to establish camaraderie with his friends as they help him survive being hunted by Merikh and Cherub alike.
The plot is divided into several problems. Addison and the Merikh are capturing the Cherub, and Jack needs to use Eden’s star to find supernatural items left by Elyon to keep the Merikh from finding them. We once again see magical gateways and Eden’s star transport Jack to many places. He and his friends seem unclear on what to do and trust in Elyon to guide them to the right place at the right time. Many of their accomplishments are a bit instant and easy after so much confusion. I was a bit surprised that the author delved into the Cherub’s being divided in what actions they should take, even though all follow Elyon.
Jack’s former best friend, Will, is a bit of a wildcard. In the first book, he was Jack’s closest friend until Jack started his quest, and Will’s mother was murdered. I never understood why he blames and hates Jack for his mother’s death and follows the very people responsible for her murder. Now he is like Anakin Skywalker- angry, misguided, powerful, on the wrong side, and doing unspeakable evil. His showdown with Jack felt very much like something out of Star Wars, with two Jedi using the force.
Overall, there is some murky logic and unclear next steps that work themselves out by trusting in Elyon. As a reader, you must have faith that things will work out. If you enjoy Christian themes, supernatural battles between good vs. evil, and action against a multinational backdrop, then this book is a good choice.