I read the whole series thus far in one day, I couldn’t put it down! It draws you in and you become invested in the story and the characters! Captivating storytelling!

Whether or not one can appreciate the themes of paranoia or existential threats to you and those you love, The Fall Gauntlet RAT does an excellent job of keeping you at the edge of your seat while exploring them. Merkel fittingly changes the setting of our character’s journey from the gauntlet arena and city of New Phasia to the symbolically fitting dark labyrinthine tunnels under the city so that the feelings of paranoia, uncertainty and even isolation can physically be part of the story. He also continues his talent for clear and thrilling action as he takes his characters through multiple challenges as they attempt to escape the city. They cross foe after foe after friend who may or may not be another foe. The inability to tell the difference between them is the most compelling part of the story, despite the estranged brothers still being interesting characters with new developments and character arcs, simply because the uncertainty is what drives the plot and sustains the tension throughout their journey. Finally, the main theme of paranoia becomes so clear once the brothers begin to doubt their allegiance to each other. And even though the dictator-like figure, the crown, does not make an appearance in this entry itself, the world building continues to be fascinating, especially with the hints of what Benji’s and Soren’s gauntlet masks can do. The story is also filled with both welcomed and ominous new characters. Then finale has plenty of surprising revelations and sets up one hell of a cliffhanger (complete with life-threatening situations), ensuring the reader’s curiosity, if not excitement, to read the next entry and learn what the future holds for our dear characters.

This gripping story of a family torn apart and thrust into an uncertain future will have you glued to every page. It is action packed, suspenseful and touching, all at the same time. After finishing The Fall Gauntlet Book One, BEAR I was thankful I had RAT on hand as I was anxious to see what would happen next. Once again, I was totally engrossed in Benji and Soren's plight to free themselves from the clutches of the wicked Crown in hopes to someday reunite with their family. Needless to say, I immediately ordered The Fall Gauntlet Book Three, CHRYSIX. Kudos to J.A.Merkel for writing this enthralling fantasy and taking us on this thrilling ride!

Another great addition to The Fall Gauntlet from Merkel. This is the second book in the series and it picks up right where the first left off. Once again, great action and suspense.

The brothers find themselves battling more dangers in the sewers below the city and don't know who is friend or foe. Their masks are both blessings and curses, but they can't give them up. Rat is packed with action and keeps the perils of the Gauntlet alive. The story asks you to consider the very real possibility that they never actually escaped it and all the running is just part of a bigger plan. I'm looking forward to more in this series and recommend Rat to readers of science fiction and fantasy with the testing of familial bonds and plenty of action.