Lies by Michael Grant

Egmont, 2010. ISBN 978-1405254304.
(Age 13+) Recommended. The third in the Gone series, Lies is just as compulsive to read as the first two books, Gone and Hunger. In this volume Grant ramps up the action at Perdido Beach, where all the people aged 15 and over have disappeared, and the remaining children are struggling to stay alive. There is drama galore as Zil and the Human Crew continue to fight against the Freaks. Sam sees the figure of Drake, with his horrific whiphand, and another figure, Brittney, rises from the dead. Orsay, acting as a prophetess, believes that there is redemption through death, and Mother Mary is forced into action, believing that she can rescue the babies of the town. Meanwhile Caine takes his crew on a mission to reach an island where he believes there will be food and some new characters, a group of children, adopted by two famous film stars, are introduced into the mix.
Grant continues his story, with the children battling to come to grips with running a town. Astrid is determined that there should be rules and procedures and questions Sam's ability to get things done. But how can a group committed to do things the correct way cope with Zil, who is evil and dangerous? Not to mention the appearance of the undead, Drake, Brittney and her brother!
The contrast between the good and evil characters in the book adds to its appeal. I sympathised with Astrid as she realised that being super intelligent is not all that is needed to run a town. Sam has a lesser role in this book, as he grapples with memories of the whipping that Drake has given him, but his character grows. Caine's total disregard for anyone who didn't add to his power and the evil actions of Zil and his crew are appalling.
An in-depth exploration of good and evil, what is murder and survival of the fittest is wrapped up in a gripping plot with action and danger galore. (The back cover warns of scenes of cruelty and some violence.)
Both boys and girls are sure to enjoy this engrossing series.
Pat Pledger