Dark Rise follows the story of Will, a sixteen year old on the streets of old world London on the run from men who have murdered his mother. These men, he finds out, are working for Simon, a powerful rich man who pretty much owns half the town.

One of the men running after him is actually someone who used to work for his mother. He gives Will a medallion and tells him to find the Stewards. Will has no idea who the Stewards are, but he really wants answers. Before he can figure out who the Stewards are, he is taken prisoner by Simon’s men.

Here, we meet Violet, a young girl who idolizes her brother and holds secrets of her own. As she sneaks onto the ship to watch her brother receive the mark of loyalty from Simon, the Stewards attack the ship. Her brother sends her down into the cargo hold where she meets Will.

The character development of this story is phenomenal. C. S. Pacat has created such a beautifully diverse group of characters. Each one enriches the story.

The author’s descriptions of every scene creates such detailed scenes. I could see and feel each scene like I was there.

And the PLOT TWISTS!!

I originally got this book from the library for my son to read. However, I found I thoroughly enjoyed this book myself. I actually can not wait to read the next in the series.