Book Review: Last Descendants by Matthew Kirby

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Last Descendants
Assassin's Creed: The Last Descendants #1
Author: Matthew Kirby
Reading Level: Young Adult
Genre: Science Fiction
Released: August 30 2016
Review Source: Scholastic Inc.

Nothing in Owen's life has been right since his father died in prison, accused of a crime Owen is certain he didn't commit. Monroe, the IT guy at school, might finally bring Owen the means to clear his father's name by letting him use an Animus — a device that lets users explore the genetic memories buried within their own DNA. The experience brings Owen more than he bargained for. During a simulation, Owen uncovers the existence of an ancient and powerful relic long considered legend — the Trident of Eden. Now two secret organizations will stop at nothing to take possession of this artifact — the Brotherhood of Assassins and the Templar Order. It soon becomes clear to Owen that the only way to save himself is to find the Trident first.

Under the guidance of Monroe, Owen and a group of other teenagers enter a simulation of memories they all share within their DNA: the 1863 draft riots in New York City. Owen and his companions will find themselves tested on the gritty streets of New York, and their experiences in the past will have far-reaching consequences in the present.

Owen wants to find out the truth about his father. And if he has to jump into his DNA to do so, he will. When he unknowingly stumbles upon The Creed it's up to him and a group of other descendants to find the one thing the Assassin's and the Templar's are looking for.

Assassin's Creed is literally one of my favorite games ever. It's a great first person game that has an amazing storyline to it. So when I got the chance to review this book I jumped on it quickly.

The book did not disappoint. I found myself wanting to play the video game just based solely on the history that the book was throwing my way. One thing about the video game is that it puts you into events that happened within history. Which I usually find boring. So when I started this book I realized that there was a high chance it would bore me. But it did not. It read like the video game -- I know that makes no sense. But what I mean is reading the book I felt as if I were playing the video game rather than reading a history lesson.

The story is told in third person perspective. I feel that is great for this story. If it were first person it would be hard to explain the whole DNA Amnibus jumping situation. Whereas being in third person it allowed for the character you were following to give into the DNA they were sharing with their ancestors and not have it completely confusing. I loved that we followed all of the descendants. It made for a more thorough telling of the historical story.

If you're a fan of the Assassin's Creed video games I would highly recommend you read this book.