THE ASCENSION

Carroll heads back to the world he created for Super Human (2010) for a second adventure in teen-superhero territory.

After narrowly defeating the Helotry and Krodin, the ancient Fifth King, Roz Dalton, Lance McKendrick, Abigail de Luyando, Solomon Cord and James Klaus expect to return to their normal lives—or at least as normal as teen superheroes can manage. When a strange mist briefly envelops the world, though, the five teens find themselves in a new America, one ruled by Krodin and controlled by martial law overseen by the Helotry. With their memories of Krodin’s viciousness and unnatural abilities intact, the teen team must find allies and attempt to defeat the Fifth King in a world he controls. The characters are much less absolute in their morality than in their first outing, making the narrative even more engaging. The teens struggle with the impact of their choices, and some of the former superheroes make appearances supporting the Helotry’s ruthless policies. Lance’s intelligence and quick wit are as strong as ever, while the reluctant Abigail comes more into her abilities. Futuristic technology integrates nicely with the superpowers for the climax.

One of those rare sequels that exceed the first. (Adventure. 10-14)