First and foremost, I'd like to say that I'm probably one of the few people in this world who is not a big fan of Westerfeld's "Uglies" Series. I don't know why, but I just really couldn't get into it much. Then again, I only read the first book- and everyone keeps pushing me to continue on with that series, telling me that it gets better. I may or may not. I don't know yet. 
 However, after reading The Secret Hour, the first book to Westerfeld's "Midnighters" Series, I thought this book was good- much better, in my opinion, than Uglies. Perhaps it was the story... or the unique descriptions. I can't say too much for the characters other than Dess. I didn't really find a fondness for many of the characters to be honest except for Dess- who I found quirky and interesting. 
 The storyline was something I found original. A secret hour in a day, really 25 hours a day, people with special abilities, unusual creatures that fill this one hour.... It was certainly a plot unlike anything else I've read before at least, and I enjoyed that. 
 I will continue with the series I'm sure. It's not likely a favorite- but a fast, enjoyable read nonetheless. And who knows? I may go ahead and give the "Uglies" Series another chance as well once I finish this. We'll have to see about that.