Brandon Mull
When I first started this book I was expecting something along the lines of a Piers Anthony fantasy/humor style. But it goes beyond that.
What starts with light-hearted humor such as a human-swallowing hippo and a botched rescue attempt end up with something more dark and compelling.
The story is about a boy who falls into another world by accident and is only trying to find a way home. Along the way he accidentally stumbles on to a rather large problem, everyone assumes he is a chosen one who will say a secret, magic word that will defeat Maldor, the evil king. Even Maldor believes it and starts hunting him immediately.
As the story progresses we meet several interesting characters, locations, puzzles, and traps to test our hero. Although it does have an Anthony feel to it (without the puns), the book does manage to stand out and be different. A good read for book lovers into fantasy.
4/5
