This review is long overdue. I was supposed to post it over a week ago along with everyone else participating in the blog tour, but my computer decided to die… and it has only just now been revived!
Robin Laughlin lives a double life. Most of the time, he’s just your ordinary teenager, but every now and then, when duty calls, the mask goes on and Robin becomes Failstate, an amateur superhero. But when competing for an official government vigilante license on America’s Next Superhero sets him at odds with his brother Ben (aka. Gauntlet), and one of his co-competitors is murdered, life, like his powers, seems to be spiraling out of control.
Determined to find the killer, Robin struggles to overcome the odds and bring said super villain to justice. But each step he takes bring him closer to blows with his own brother. Will Robin track down the murderer? Or will the murderer catch him first?
I absolutely loved this book. I started reading it late one night (when I was supposed to be writing) and I was glued to my chair for the next several hours until I turned the last page and closed the book with a contented sigh. I highly enjoy superhero movies (the Avengers was awesome!) but this was the first time I’d ever read a superhero book…and I look forward to more. I recently discovered that there are two more books coming in the series and I can’t wait to read them!
Failstate was a fast paced read with plenty of action, intrigue, sarcasm, and wit. From the first page, you can’t help rooting for Failstate…er, Robin…and hoping everything will work out for him! John W. Otte did a wonderful job of bringing creative “powers” and new ideas to the realm of superheros and villains. A fresh plot, coupled with likable characters and vivid writing makes Failstate an excellent read for all ages!
Be sure to check out what the other Team Novel Teen reviewers said!
Rachel says
Great review. I also loved Failstate. I tried to read it all in one day but ended up deciding to go to bed at one in the morning (I had been reading is since about nine the morning before). But, since I was so enthroled with it, I did read ever second I could and ingnored those around me. Even read while I ate which I never do. Enjoyed the review and keep up the good work.
Charley Robson says
Haha, I love superheroes – The Avengers was indeed epic, and I loved "Wearing the Cape" by Marion G Harmon (you should check it out, it's an epic book, it really is).
Methinks I'll be treating myself to a copy of Failstate! :D
Laura BurgandyIce says
Fun review!! I'm still reading it!! Lol. It is a lot of fun!!
Gillian Adams says
Rachel – Thanks. I definitely enjoyed Failstate! Can't wait until the next books come out! :)
Charley – Haven't heard of that book… I will have to check it out!
Eruantien Nenharma says
Great review!!!
By the way, I nominated you for a bloggers award! Click here for more details: http://whispersofwindandsong.blogspot.com/2012/07/blogging-awards.html