A fine first novel from Mr. Riggs. I am surprised because it's not something I'd read, left to my own devices, but then again that's what book clubs are for, aren't they? It is especially surprising in that it apparently is listed on the (currently mad popular) genre of Young Adult fiction, or YA for those into trendy acronyms. 
 The writing style was clean and crisp, with just enough eloquence from the main character to keep in interesting, but not unbelievable. While I enjoyed how the story played out, I think a far more promising tale was missed in the relationship between Jacob (the main character) and his grandfather. 
 It didn't seem like a trudge that a 382 page journey would imply. That said, I'd like to know how the world Mr. Riggs has created operates, so I plan on getting the rest of the books in the series, starting with the already published Hollow City. Once again, if goodreads allowed half star ratings, I'd gladly give the book a 3.5. Since that is not an option, I will give it the benefit of the doubt and nudge it to a 4.