Into the Vortex (Dylan Dover #1) by Lynne Howard

What worked:

The plot tells a familiar tale, with a twist, of an average 12-year-old boy discovering his amazing powers. The prologue shares a prophecy of four quadruplets being born that might save, or destroy all immortals, and then describes some shady activities surrounding the birth of quadruplets, three boys and one girl. Twelve years later Dylan flees from bullies and accidentally falls through a vortex where he’s collected by guards. It turns out he’s one of the quadruplets and a warlock, and there are many characters surprised by his appearance. Much of the plot deals with reuniting the siblings and includes many twists and uncertainties.

There are different levels of evil laced in the story. Balthazar is the main antagonist, as it’s his plan originally to separate the quadruplets at birth. He works for one of the immortal leaders, but it’s not clear if this man is committed to maintaining peace. Balthazar posts an elf named Reus at the vortex to prevent any of the children from returning from the human world, but Reus fails with that task. Balthazar orders Reus to correct the mistake, and Reus must obey to remain alive. He follows Balthazar out of fear, not loyalty, so it makes his character unpredictable.

The most interesting part of the story is the mystery surrounding the quadruplets. They’re separated into four different places at birth, but the location of the girl isn’t shared. It might be Dylan’s new friend named Thea due to her special abilities, but she doesn’t have the birthmark shared by the three boys. It will create a complicated relationship in the future if she turns out to be the missing sister. Dylan is reunited with his older brother Remy fairly quickly, and the brothers discover they’re more powerful together than apart. The problem of the final child is left unanswered for most of the plot. The major unanswered question is whether reuniting the children will be the salvation or ruination for immortals. The prophecy is unclear.

What didn’t work as well:

The book’s conclusion leads right into a sequel but leaves a feeling of unfinished business. It’s understandable given the circumstances, but I wish the author had chosen a different place to stop. A couple of major changes are introduced, and readers will want to know what happens next. I’m looking forward to the next book!

The Final Verdict:

Don’t mess with magical brothers! The idea of separated, magical quadruplets is creative, but still familiar enough to easily follow. Dylan, Remy, and Thea are interesting, and likable characters and they’re determined to support each other to the end. Readers will enjoy the mystery, intrigue, and adventure of the story, and I highly recommend you give this book a shot.