This review originally posted at More Than Just Magic 
 This novel is actually two separate stories about two separate teams. There's Laura and Alec on one side and Jack and Aubrey on the other. They offer two juxtaposing viewpoints. Those who have some idea what's going on (Laura and Alec) and those who are learning right along with the reader (Jack and Aubrey). It was a neat tactic allowing for surprises and twists alongside more detailed knowledge. 
 There is no doubt that Wells has built an intricate puzzle around the lives of these superhuman teens. And it was fascinating to watch the pieces fall into place. However the novel suffers in that it feels overcrowded. It's fast paced and action packed, which is great but it doesn't allow for a ton of character development. I felt like I really got to know Jack and Aubrey but at the end of the day know nothing about Laura and Alec. 
 Blackout has a unique premise and I am interested in what happens next despite my reservations. I just hope more time is spent of the characters themselves rather than the action around them.