Spencer Dimmick
The Merlin Conspiracy
Diana Wynne Jones
Fantasy
Just right
p. 346

1. Right now, Maxwell Hyde, the grandfather of one of the two main characters, has just been taken away by Gwyn Ap Nud, the Lord of the Dead, who happens to be that same character's, called Roddy, other Grandfather. Gwyn was under an enchantment to do this by Sybil, Sir James, and the fake Merlin: The title given to the head magic-user of the lands. Those same three are in the center of a plot to tip the balance of magic in the isles of Blest towards its darkest side. Nick, Roddy, and Grundo, the three protagonists, are trying to stop them.

2. I really like this book. It has a lot of fantasy, which I love, and a truly exciting plot, and a great turnout of characters. However, there are two main characters and this book switches perspectives every so often, which confuses me very much. That stops me from giving this book full points.

3. I would say the theme of adjusting to changes is what rules this world. From going from one reality to another to discovering a conspiracy, the characters are flung into a world of madness that they must adjust quickly to or be overwhelmed.

4. My favorite character is Romanov. He is a man living on an island full of strange and superbly powerful magics that he created himself. Deciding that he didn't want to take all the jobs like being the Merlin that he was offered, he lives a secluded existence on his island.

5. My least favorite character is Grundo, a silent boy who is grumpy and lazy but sadly one of the main characters in the book. He just treats everyone rudely or ignores them, and it wasn't hard to quickly form a dislike for him.

6. I think that Nick will convince Roddy to meet with Romanov and consult him for advice on how to handle all the conspiracies and old magics that are threatening to overcome her. I also think that there may be a battle between characters very soon as well.