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Alfred Kropp #3
The Thirteenth Skull
First Alfred Kropp lost-and found-the legendary sword Excalibur. Then he defeated King Paimon, arguably the nastiest of demons ever to roam the earth. What could possibly be in store for him now? Plenty, it turns out. Not only is a dangerous new enemy tracking Alfred's every move, even the people who have sworn to protect him no longer seem trustworthy. Who, or what, is Sofia, and is there a connection between Sofia and the mysterious Thirteenth Skull? As Alfred struggles to hold his enemies at bay and keep his friends in even closer sight, trust and betrayal begin to clash in terrifying ways, and the reluctant hero who has always narrowly avoided death may not be getting out of this adventure alive... Just right for fans of Alex Rider and Stephen King, the third installment in this acclaimed series is a compulsive page-turner readers won't soon forget.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published June 1, 2008
36 people are currently reading
1883 people want to read
About the author
Rick Yancey
40 books9,834 followersaka Richard Yancey.
Rick is a native Floridian and a graduate of Roosevelt University in Chicago. He earned a B.A. in English which he put to use as a field officer for the Internal Revenue Service. Inspired and encouraged by his wife, he decided his degree might also be useful in writing books and in 2004 he began writing full-time.
Since then he has launched two critically acclaimed series: The Extraordinary Adventures of Alfred Kropp, for young readers, and The Highly Effective Detective, for adults. Both books are set in Knoxville, Tennessee, where Rick lived for ten years before returning to Florida.
Rick is a native Floridian and a graduate of Roosevelt University in Chicago. He earned a B.A. in English which he put to use as a field officer for the Internal Revenue Service. Inspired and encouraged by his wife, he decided his degree might also be useful in writing books and in 2004 he began writing full-time.
Since then he has launched two critically acclaimed series: The Extraordinary Adventures of Alfred Kropp, for young readers, and The Highly Effective Detective, for adults. Both books are set in Knoxville, Tennessee, where Rick lived for ten years before returning to Florida.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
March 21, 2016
I have one reaction after finishing this series:
Honestly, I think Yancey should have left it at book 1. The sequels weren't necessary, and they didn't manage to hook me like book 1 did. Not to mention they aren't as funny or snarky as book 1 was, but oh well. That is not to say this book is bad, because as a standalone, you could say it's entertaining. The action never ends and there are still some hilarious comments. Compared to the charm of book 1, though, it falls short.
My final words I guess would be: Read The Extraordinary Adventures of Alfred Kropp but leave it there. I assure you will thoroughly enjoy book 1, so no worries. I must insist, though: Don't continue the series. It will only disappoint you (or maybe not) and make you lose interest in Yancey's other works, and we don't want that, do we? Not if you haven't tried the masterpiece that goes by the name of The Monstrumologist.
Anyway, my job here is done. Goodbye to another book series. Let's continue with the rest of my TBR.
Honestly, I think Yancey should have left it at book 1. The sequels weren't necessary, and they didn't manage to hook me like book 1 did. Not to mention they aren't as funny or snarky as book 1 was, but oh well. That is not to say this book is bad, because as a standalone, you could say it's entertaining. The action never ends and there are still some hilarious comments. Compared to the charm of book 1, though, it falls short.
My final words I guess would be: Read The Extraordinary Adventures of Alfred Kropp but leave it there. I assure you will thoroughly enjoy book 1, so no worries. I must insist, though: Don't continue the series. It will only disappoint you (or maybe not) and make you lose interest in Yancey's other works, and we don't want that, do we? Not if you haven't tried the masterpiece that goes by the name of The Monstrumologist.
Anyway, my job here is done. Goodbye to another book series. Let's continue with the rest of my TBR.
January 18, 2015
The Thirteenth Skull is a stupendous action novel when considered on its own, but when considered as part of the overall series of the Alfred Kropp novels, it has some glaring flaws. On the one hand, this is a very interesting tale which mixes musings on morality, necessity, and the nature of reality with nail-biting car chases and gunfights. On the other hand, it marks a very abrupt shift in the nature of the series, and seems to have an entirely different hero than in the previous books, despite being the same person.
For those of you who have not read the earlier books, a misadventure involving Excalibur left Alfred with blood that possesses an ability to heal even the most grievous injuries – although not his own. It also left him with some deadly enemies, seeking revenge for their defeat in the first book, who launch an attack on Alfred in the first pages of the novel astounding in its scope.
Alfred seeks shelter with the mysterious intelligence agency known as OIPEP, but as he spends time with them and their vile leading operative known as Nueve, the more it becomes clear that their intentions are hardly benign. Although Alfred trusts OIPEP’s leader implicitly, he decides to strike out on his own in order to try to defeat the enemies that besiege him. But doing so won’t be easy, especially with treachery lurking behind every corner.
This is a complex novel considering how short it is. Alfred discusses frequently “the thing that must be done,” the necessary actions needed to maintain our freedom and security, and how they so rarely intersect with doing the right thing. He also seems to get involved in gunfights rather alarmingly frequently, including an incredible car chase in Billings, Montana of all places. But the ease at which Alfred becomes accustomed to his life of intrigue becomes a problem with this book.
Umberto Eco stated once that “the real hero is always a hero by mistake; he dreams of being an honest coward like everyone else,” and this pretty much describes Alfred until this book. The Alfred of last book – which just happened days prior – would never have, for example, engaged an armed assassin in single combat and pursued him by hijacking a police car, which he does just a few pages into the novel. He seems uncomfortably comfortable with violence and in other words, more assured.
In all likelihood, I’m being overly picky. The Thirteenth Skull is best enjoyed as a standalone. Read this book first. Read the others second. And then pretend those novels happened to someone else.
For those of you who have not read the earlier books, a misadventure involving Excalibur left Alfred with blood that possesses an ability to heal even the most grievous injuries – although not his own. It also left him with some deadly enemies, seeking revenge for their defeat in the first book, who launch an attack on Alfred in the first pages of the novel astounding in its scope.
Alfred seeks shelter with the mysterious intelligence agency known as OIPEP, but as he spends time with them and their vile leading operative known as Nueve, the more it becomes clear that their intentions are hardly benign. Although Alfred trusts OIPEP’s leader implicitly, he decides to strike out on his own in order to try to defeat the enemies that besiege him. But doing so won’t be easy, especially with treachery lurking behind every corner.
This is a complex novel considering how short it is. Alfred discusses frequently “the thing that must be done,” the necessary actions needed to maintain our freedom and security, and how they so rarely intersect with doing the right thing. He also seems to get involved in gunfights rather alarmingly frequently, including an incredible car chase in Billings, Montana of all places. But the ease at which Alfred becomes accustomed to his life of intrigue becomes a problem with this book.
Umberto Eco stated once that “the real hero is always a hero by mistake; he dreams of being an honest coward like everyone else,” and this pretty much describes Alfred until this book. The Alfred of last book – which just happened days prior – would never have, for example, engaged an armed assassin in single combat and pursued him by hijacking a police car, which he does just a few pages into the novel. He seems uncomfortably comfortable with violence and in other words, more assured.
In all likelihood, I’m being overly picky. The Thirteenth Skull is best enjoyed as a standalone. Read this book first. Read the others second. And then pretend those novels happened to someone else.
June 8, 2008
Reviewed by Cana Rensberger for TeensReadToo.com
Meeting Alfred Kropp in THE EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURES OF ALFRED KROPP really was extraordinary! Then I eagerly read THE SEAL OF SOLOMON, wondering what could surpass the thrill of Alfred first stealing, then losing, and then recovering Excalibur, King Arthur's sword. The author, Rick Yancey, didn't let the reader down. Alfred was forced to fight demons! So, naturally, I couldn't wait to read THE THIRTEENTH SKULL!
I've rated this book Grades 6+, as I have his first two titles, but with a caveat. Mr. Yancey pulls no punches when describing the violence and clear danger Alfred faces. I do not doubt that younger readers will devour the Alfred Kropp books, but parents will want to use their discretion.
Mr. Yancey doesn't even let the reader get good and comfy in their favorite reading chair before relentlessly yanking them to the proverbial edge of their seat. The first chapter starts with a bang - literally. A truck blows up beneath Alfred's new penthouse suite window, on the 30th floor of Samson Towers. In short order, one man is shot and Alfred is fighting for his life with his attacker. Soon the two are racing to the ground floor, one by express elevator, the other by parachute. And Mr. Yancey's not done yet. There's still a police car to commandeer, complete with the surprised officer at the wheel, a car chase through city streets, and yet another explosion.
Once again Alfred is sucked back into the OIPEP. But can he trust the new Operative Nine? What about the beautiful new field agent? And who is trying to kill Alfred, and more importantly, why?
First it was Excalibur, then the Seal of Solomon. Both times he nearly lost his life. Now it's the Thirteenth Skull. Alfred knows that this time it will be different. Samuel, the former Operative Nine and now Alfred's guardian, is not reassuring. Alfred must find out what the Thirteenth Skull is. The clock is ticking and Alfred knows his time is about up.
I absolutely will not tell you more. You MUST, MUST, MUST go buy THE THIRTEENTH SKULL. But only after you buy and read his first two titles, as this series is best read in order. Mr. Yancey has created a cast of characters equal to the Alex Rider series by Anthony Horowitz. I can't wait to see Alfred Kropp's adventures on the big screen!
Meeting Alfred Kropp in THE EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURES OF ALFRED KROPP really was extraordinary! Then I eagerly read THE SEAL OF SOLOMON, wondering what could surpass the thrill of Alfred first stealing, then losing, and then recovering Excalibur, King Arthur's sword. The author, Rick Yancey, didn't let the reader down. Alfred was forced to fight demons! So, naturally, I couldn't wait to read THE THIRTEENTH SKULL!
I've rated this book Grades 6+, as I have his first two titles, but with a caveat. Mr. Yancey pulls no punches when describing the violence and clear danger Alfred faces. I do not doubt that younger readers will devour the Alfred Kropp books, but parents will want to use their discretion.
Mr. Yancey doesn't even let the reader get good and comfy in their favorite reading chair before relentlessly yanking them to the proverbial edge of their seat. The first chapter starts with a bang - literally. A truck blows up beneath Alfred's new penthouse suite window, on the 30th floor of Samson Towers. In short order, one man is shot and Alfred is fighting for his life with his attacker. Soon the two are racing to the ground floor, one by express elevator, the other by parachute. And Mr. Yancey's not done yet. There's still a police car to commandeer, complete with the surprised officer at the wheel, a car chase through city streets, and yet another explosion.
Once again Alfred is sucked back into the OIPEP. But can he trust the new Operative Nine? What about the beautiful new field agent? And who is trying to kill Alfred, and more importantly, why?
First it was Excalibur, then the Seal of Solomon. Both times he nearly lost his life. Now it's the Thirteenth Skull. Alfred knows that this time it will be different. Samuel, the former Operative Nine and now Alfred's guardian, is not reassuring. Alfred must find out what the Thirteenth Skull is. The clock is ticking and Alfred knows his time is about up.
I absolutely will not tell you more. You MUST, MUST, MUST go buy THE THIRTEENTH SKULL. But only after you buy and read his first two titles, as this series is best read in order. Mr. Yancey has created a cast of characters equal to the Alex Rider series by Anthony Horowitz. I can't wait to see Alfred Kropp's adventures on the big screen!
April 8, 2022
Alex Kropp has never failed to take us on a complete whirlwind of an adventure ever since the start of the first book. In this final book, someone is hell-bent on killing him, he also faces danger from within the organization itself, and Alex has to take the matter into his hand and decide what's best for humankind.
I thought this last one would be special since our hero had experienced all sorts of challenges before this showdown, but I guess I have a high expectation of this final book because I was left disappointed as it did not end with a bang as I had hoped. I was also hoping that Mike Arnold or even Natalia would appear, but they did not.
I thought this last one would be special since our hero had experienced all sorts of challenges before this showdown, but I guess I have a high expectation of this final book because I was left disappointed as it did not end with a bang as I had hoped. I was also hoping that Mike Arnold or even Natalia would appear, but they did not.
July 21, 2008
Imagine one long car chase, one drawn-out sword fight, one prison break-- every book in this series reads like one extended climax-- and that is why I love it.
Alfred's back, the OPIEP is still running the show, and there is another artifact that must be rescued.
Alfred Kropp,fifteen-year old loser and the last descendant of Lancelot, fights his destiny and the evil forces that would take over the world. The plots are not that complicated, but I don't read these books for the plots. It is Alfred and the incredible action sequences that make these books great. Think James Bond as teenage misfit and you get the idea.
Alfred's back, the OPIEP is still running the show, and there is another artifact that must be rescued.
Alfred Kropp,fifteen-year old loser and the last descendant of Lancelot, fights his destiny and the evil forces that would take over the world. The plots are not that complicated, but I don't read these books for the plots. It is Alfred and the incredible action sequences that make these books great. Think James Bond as teenage misfit and you get the idea.
January 6, 2012
This book is a typical Kropp book. It's filled with a lot of chase scenes and more chase scenes followed by chase scenes. On the other hand, you can see Afred grow, as well as other characters. The plot wasn't that hot, but it wasn't that bad. It was well written.
September 2, 2024
After having this book on my TBR for at least 10 years - I have finally read it!
This was a great ending to the series, but it also leaves an opening to have a sequel series one day. It would be cool to see Yancey return to this series, but I doubt it would ever happen.
The story starts with a bang and the pace doesn't slow down throughout the story.
Alfred continues growing in this story. He's smarter than he used to be, but still too trusting (I'm looking at you Ashley) for his own good. Alfred wants to see the best in people, even when they show him that it doesn't exist. I mean, he showed mercy to Jourdain and look how that ended. Despite that naivety, he is still my favourite character in the book.
I loved the alternate story that also ran through this book, where everyone finally seems to realise how important Alfred's healing blood is. The imminent lobotomy, the bomb inside of his brain! I feel like this part of the story was better developed and felt more like it should have been the main story (rather than going back to the Knights).
There are a couple of things that I wish were different.
The first being I wish that Mike Arnold had come back in some way, just to bring things back in more of a circle. Like it would have been cool if he was the heir to Mogart rather than introducing a new character. Mike Arnold was there from the beginning as the lesser bad guy, so it would have made sense to have him back again as this story was about closing the circle. Alfred went all the way back to Merlin's cave where he died the first time, so I just feel like Mike Arnold should have been there too.
I also didn't really care for the 'main villain' in this story (Jourdain), because he really wasn't much of a villain. I mean, he did arrange for Sam to be tortured, he desecrated numerous graves and did end up killing Alfred towards the end... He just didn't feel like he was a big part of the story, despite being billed (on the blurb) as the main villain. Jourdain appeared out of nowhere, declared himself Alfred's enemy (and Mogart's son) and set about destroying his life and trying to take his inherited company away. His goal was to bring the 13 skulls together and therefore be able to bring Excalibur back to Earth. He did all of that, and when it didn't work - he just disappears! We don't see him after he kills Alfred. He isn't there when Alfred wakes back up again, he is just gone. So that made the final battle feel a little on the empty side...
This was a great ending to the series, but it also leaves an opening to have a sequel series one day. It would be cool to see Yancey return to this series, but I doubt it would ever happen.
The story starts with a bang and the pace doesn't slow down throughout the story.
Alfred continues growing in this story. He's smarter than he used to be, but still too trusting (I'm looking at you Ashley) for his own good. Alfred wants to see the best in people, even when they show him that it doesn't exist. I mean, he showed mercy to Jourdain and look how that ended. Despite that naivety, he is still my favourite character in the book.
I loved the alternate story that also ran through this book, where everyone finally seems to realise how important Alfred's healing blood is. The imminent lobotomy, the bomb inside of his brain! I feel like this part of the story was better developed and felt more like it should have been the main story (rather than going back to the Knights).
There are a couple of things that I wish were different.
The first being I wish that Mike Arnold had come back in some way, just to bring things back in more of a circle. Like it would have been cool if he was the heir to Mogart rather than introducing a new character. Mike Arnold was there from the beginning as the lesser bad guy, so it would have made sense to have him back again as this story was about closing the circle. Alfred went all the way back to Merlin's cave where he died the first time, so I just feel like Mike Arnold should have been there too.
I also didn't really care for the 'main villain' in this story (Jourdain), because he really wasn't much of a villain. I mean, he did arrange for Sam to be tortured, he desecrated numerous graves and did end up killing Alfred towards the end... He just didn't feel like he was a big part of the story, despite being billed (on the blurb) as the main villain. Jourdain appeared out of nowhere, declared himself Alfred's enemy (and Mogart's son) and set about destroying his life and trying to take his inherited company away. His goal was to bring the 13 skulls together and therefore be able to bring Excalibur back to Earth. He did all of that, and when it didn't work - he just disappears! We don't see him after he kills Alfred. He isn't there when Alfred wakes back up again, he is just gone. So that made the final battle feel a little on the empty side...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2023
3.5 stars.. Poor Alfred is trying to do the right thing and many people are trying to kill him. He is betrayed by everyone he trusts and he still forgives and does the right thing.
I think this was the weakest story of the trilogy. And I wasn't a fan of the betrayals or the ending.
Likes:
* Greater love hath no man than this
* To recap the previous books, Alfred told a detective the whole story to date
* Alfred thinking of people using descriptive nicknames
Dislikes:
* But the Detective Meredith Black didn't factor into the rest of the story
* All the acronyms, definitely part of govt agencies, but so annoying
* Teenage boy humor
With-reservations:
violence, death, betrayal
I think this was the weakest story of the trilogy. And I wasn't a fan of the betrayals or the ending.
Likes:
* Greater love hath no man than this
* To recap the previous books, Alfred told a detective the whole story to date
* Alfred thinking of people using descriptive nicknames
Dislikes:
* But the Detective Meredith Black didn't factor into the rest of the story
* All the acronyms, definitely part of govt agencies, but so annoying
* Teenage boy humor
With-reservations:
violence, death, betrayal
January 12, 2022
The third book in the Alfred Krupp series is extremely satisfying and once again, that is because Alfred is such an average kid. Without special training or talent, Alfred has been thrust into two earth shattering adventures and has suffered great loss over and over again. In this third book, we see a different Alfred than was in the first two books and it’s perfectly understandable that after all those events, he has changed. He’s no longer the innocent and bullied 15 year old he was. He’s not much older but he has seen a whole lot of stuff that he will never unsee. He’s a little more cynical and a little less trusting this time around yet his decisions are still primarily altruistic. The fundamental goodness of Alfred has inexplicably remained intact. This book is a wonderful addition to the series.
March 14, 2018
While entertaining and easy reads, I am a bit frustrated with the editing of this series. In each book, there are errors that simply shouldn't be there. In this book, for example, a character's name is spelled Jourdain but is also written as Jordain. Sometimes the spelling alternates within the same paragraph.
Bloomsbury's editors should have caught these mistakes and it's disheartening when the mistakes are found throughout all three books.
Rick Yancy is clever and the premise of these books is quite delightful (if not a bit gory at times). I have already read The 5th Wave and will probably read other books he has written. I just hope the editing issues have been resolved.
Bloomsbury's editors should have caught these mistakes and it's disheartening when the mistakes are found throughout all three books.
Rick Yancy is clever and the premise of these books is quite delightful (if not a bit gory at times). I have already read The 5th Wave and will probably read other books he has written. I just hope the editing issues have been resolved.
June 18, 2018
The Thirteenth Skull is fun and fast moving but lacks the nuances of the first two Alfred Kropp novels. Our hero is now older and far more competent - and he is harder. I didn't like this book nearly as much as the first two but it is still a decent read and older teens will love it.
Please see my full review here: http://www.morebooksthantime.com/alfr...
Please see my full review here: http://www.morebooksthantime.com/alfr...
September 22, 2017
Better than the second -- more natural-feeling conflict -- but the stunts he survives are getting more and more over-the-top. I like death-defying action as much as anybody, but I don't think it meshes as well with an antihero like Alfred as it does with a caricature like James Bond.
May 17, 2019
An amazing book, second book of a trilogy, and has to do with alfred kroops assasination and how hes trying to disappear from the world of mystery that is his life and wants to get out of those missions
November 19, 2022
Great series
This book had a lot of adventure with non-stop action and twists. It was a great ending to the series!
This book had a lot of adventure with non-stop action and twists. It was a great ending to the series!
June 1, 2021
We get to see everything conclude in this excellent series.
December 7, 2014
Alfred Kropp is rather tired of living an exciting life. After finding (and losing) Excalibur and defeating a horde of demons, he was hoping life would quiet down a little. After an assassination attempt leaves him on the wrong end of the law, he knows he's ready to be done with being special. So in an attempt to prove he has the free will to choose his fate, he decides to quit. Retire. Spend the rest of his life somewhere nice and quiet. The only problem is that he has no idea what he really signed up for . . .
The action never flags in this book as Alfred Kropp discovers more than a few new mysteries about the universe, including a few secrets about himself. On the run from just about everything, constantly under the threat of death, he's figuring out a lot of things just to survive. And his upside-down logic is always a treat, particularly when he proves his pure heart despite everything that's happened to him. He takes the lesson about his blood being a gift and not a treasure to wonderful extremes.
Unfortunately, this book lags behind both the first and second in the series. Sure, there are more explosions, but one of the best things about the other two books was that Alfred had a chance to pause in the middle of the chaos and reflect on things. Since this book doesn't go that deeply into his mind, it makes the scene about forgiveness at the end far less meaningful; it feels like a last-minute thing Alfred threw on there. On a slightly more pedantic note, Alfred's blood would have to have some benefit to himself to let him do all that he did on top of the injuries he collected.
On a more personal note, the book seemed a bit inconsistent with clarifying whether or not there is some overriding "right" or "good" and not just the best choice a person thought he or she could make in the situation. The last few pages lean towards the right trumping a person's own idea of what's most important, but the rest of the book more supports the idea that everyone decides based on what they think the best thing to do is, so there shouldn't be any blame attached to that. I would've preferred Alfred to cling to good rather than necessity; he does seem to be going there by the end, so I'll look forward to seeing what he does in the next book. Additionally, although the body count stacks up almost as high as the first two books, Alfred is reacting a lot less to the deaths. It's hard to tell if he's getting numb to grief or if he honestly doesn't care (as long as they're trying to kill him, that is).
Overall it's still worth a read, though given what a powerhouse Seal of Solomon was as a followup, The Thirteenth Skull disappointed me a bit. Alfred is still a fun character to follow if only for his unpredictable schemes and nearly magical bad luck. I rate this book Recommended.
The action never flags in this book as Alfred Kropp discovers more than a few new mysteries about the universe, including a few secrets about himself. On the run from just about everything, constantly under the threat of death, he's figuring out a lot of things just to survive. And his upside-down logic is always a treat, particularly when he proves his pure heart despite everything that's happened to him. He takes the lesson about his blood being a gift and not a treasure to wonderful extremes.
Unfortunately, this book lags behind both the first and second in the series. Sure, there are more explosions, but one of the best things about the other two books was that Alfred had a chance to pause in the middle of the chaos and reflect on things. Since this book doesn't go that deeply into his mind, it makes the scene about forgiveness at the end far less meaningful; it feels like a last-minute thing Alfred threw on there. On a slightly more pedantic note, Alfred's blood would have to have some benefit to himself to let him do all that he did on top of the injuries he collected.
On a more personal note, the book seemed a bit inconsistent with clarifying whether or not there is some overriding "right" or "good" and not just the best choice a person thought he or she could make in the situation. The last few pages lean towards the right trumping a person's own idea of what's most important, but the rest of the book more supports the idea that everyone decides based on what they think the best thing to do is, so there shouldn't be any blame attached to that. I would've preferred Alfred to cling to good rather than necessity; he does seem to be going there by the end, so I'll look forward to seeing what he does in the next book. Additionally, although the body count stacks up almost as high as the first two books, Alfred is reacting a lot less to the deaths. It's hard to tell if he's getting numb to grief or if he honestly doesn't care (as long as they're trying to kill him, that is).
Overall it's still worth a read, though given what a powerhouse Seal of Solomon was as a followup, The Thirteenth Skull disappointed me a bit. Alfred is still a fun character to follow if only for his unpredictable schemes and nearly magical bad luck. I rate this book Recommended.
June 30, 2010
Meeting Alfred Kropp in THE EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURES OF ALFRED KROPP was extraordinary! Then I eagerly read ALFRED KROPP THE SEAL OF SOLOMON, wondering what could surpass the thrill of Alfred first stealing, then losing, and then recovering Excalibur, King Arthur’s sword. The author, Rick Yancey, didn’t let the reader down. Alfred was forced to fight demons! So, naturally, I couldn’t wait to read ALFRED KROPP THE THIRTEENTH SKULL!
I’ve rated this book 6+, as I have his first two titles, but with a caveat. Mr. Yancey pulls no punches when describing the violence and clear danger Alfred faces. I do not doubt that younger readers will devour the Alfred Kropp books, but parents will want to use their discretion.
Mr. Yancey doesn’t even let the reader get good and comfy in their favorite reading chair before relentlessly yanking them to the proverbial edge of their seat. The first chapter starts with a bang – literally. A truck blows up beneath Alfred’s new penthouse suite window, on the 30th floor of Samson Towers. In short order one man is shot and Alfred is fighting for his life with his attacker. Soon the two are racing to the ground floor, one by express elevator, the other by parachute. And Mr. Yancey’s not done yet. There’s still a police car to commandeer, complete with the surprised officer at the wheel, a car chase through city streets, and yet another explosion.
Once again Alfred is sucked back into the OIPEP. But can he trust the new Operative Nine? What about the beautiful new field agent? And who is trying to kill Alfred, and more importantly, why?
First it was Excalibur, then the Seal of Solomon. Both times he nearly lost his life. Now it’s the Thirteenth Skull. Alfred knows that this time it will be different. Samuel, the former Operative Nine and now Alfred’s guardian, is not reassuring. Alfred must find out what the Thirteenth Skull is. The clock is ticking and Alfred knows his time is about up.
I absolutely will not tell you more. You MUST, MUST, MUST go buy ALFRED KROPP THE THIRTEENTH SKULL. But only after you buy and read his first two titles as this series is best read in order. Mr. Yancey has created a cast of characters equal to the Alex Rider series by Anthony Horowitz. I can’t wait to see Alfred Kropp’s adventures on the big screen!
I’ve rated this book 6+, as I have his first two titles, but with a caveat. Mr. Yancey pulls no punches when describing the violence and clear danger Alfred faces. I do not doubt that younger readers will devour the Alfred Kropp books, but parents will want to use their discretion.
Mr. Yancey doesn’t even let the reader get good and comfy in their favorite reading chair before relentlessly yanking them to the proverbial edge of their seat. The first chapter starts with a bang – literally. A truck blows up beneath Alfred’s new penthouse suite window, on the 30th floor of Samson Towers. In short order one man is shot and Alfred is fighting for his life with his attacker. Soon the two are racing to the ground floor, one by express elevator, the other by parachute. And Mr. Yancey’s not done yet. There’s still a police car to commandeer, complete with the surprised officer at the wheel, a car chase through city streets, and yet another explosion.
Once again Alfred is sucked back into the OIPEP. But can he trust the new Operative Nine? What about the beautiful new field agent? And who is trying to kill Alfred, and more importantly, why?
First it was Excalibur, then the Seal of Solomon. Both times he nearly lost his life. Now it’s the Thirteenth Skull. Alfred knows that this time it will be different. Samuel, the former Operative Nine and now Alfred’s guardian, is not reassuring. Alfred must find out what the Thirteenth Skull is. The clock is ticking and Alfred knows his time is about up.
I absolutely will not tell you more. You MUST, MUST, MUST go buy ALFRED KROPP THE THIRTEENTH SKULL. But only after you buy and read his first two titles as this series is best read in order. Mr. Yancey has created a cast of characters equal to the Alex Rider series by Anthony Horowitz. I can’t wait to see Alfred Kropp’s adventures on the big screen!
April 3, 2016
In "The Thirteenth Skull" the fifteen year old hero's in danger again when he's not only hunted by a madman chasing a myth, a sociopath on a crusade to lobotomize him but held hostage by a new OP-Nine and the OIPEP Board who want to use his blood to create a formidable army of super soldiers. The plot is filled with betrayals, lies and treachery which are counterbalanced by a knightly heart, forgiveness and mercy.
In a fast-paced, action-packed plot with the adrenaline rush of high-speed chases and helicopter explosions Alfred Kropp not only has to unravel the mystery of the thirteenth skull, but unearth its connection to project "Sophia". The intensity and suspense quickly heats up when Alfred makes a deal for his safety and freedom in exchange for Solomon's ring only to be betrayed; his blood too valuable a commodity to be allowed to disappear. Lies, disloyalty and disillusionment permeate the atmosphere of this well-written thrill-ride as Alfred quickly learns he can't trust anyone, not his guardian, his extraction coordinator Ashley or even his esteemed lawyer Alphonso Needlemeir.
Intriguing characters with their passion and complex personalities infuse this adventure with energy, excitement and drama. Alfred Kropp's knightly traits continue to be shaped by every challenge he faces, growing from a awkward, insecure teen into a resourceful, clever and honourable hero. In this plotline Samuel St. John ( formerly Op-Nine) haunted by a guilty conscience has assumed legal guardianship but is still secretive, his loyalty split between his oath to the OIPEP and desire to protect Alfred while Abigail Smith, the Director of the OIPEP is just, trustworthy and compassionate.
Yet it's the antagonists that ignite the pages of this story with their ruthlessness and inhumanity; like the arrogant, infamous genetic engineer Dr. Mingus; the brutish Vosch; the cold and calculating Jourdain Garmot; and the merciless, cold-hearted new OP-Nine, Nueve.
The third installment in the Alfred Kropp series is intoxicating entertainment that keeps you holding your breath until the end. I loved "The Thirteenth Skull" and hope this isn't the last of Alfred Kropp's adventures.
In a fast-paced, action-packed plot with the adrenaline rush of high-speed chases and helicopter explosions Alfred Kropp not only has to unravel the mystery of the thirteenth skull, but unearth its connection to project "Sophia". The intensity and suspense quickly heats up when Alfred makes a deal for his safety and freedom in exchange for Solomon's ring only to be betrayed; his blood too valuable a commodity to be allowed to disappear. Lies, disloyalty and disillusionment permeate the atmosphere of this well-written thrill-ride as Alfred quickly learns he can't trust anyone, not his guardian, his extraction coordinator Ashley or even his esteemed lawyer Alphonso Needlemeir.
Intriguing characters with their passion and complex personalities infuse this adventure with energy, excitement and drama. Alfred Kropp's knightly traits continue to be shaped by every challenge he faces, growing from a awkward, insecure teen into a resourceful, clever and honourable hero. In this plotline Samuel St. John ( formerly Op-Nine) haunted by a guilty conscience has assumed legal guardianship but is still secretive, his loyalty split between his oath to the OIPEP and desire to protect Alfred while Abigail Smith, the Director of the OIPEP is just, trustworthy and compassionate.
Yet it's the antagonists that ignite the pages of this story with their ruthlessness and inhumanity; like the arrogant, infamous genetic engineer Dr. Mingus; the brutish Vosch; the cold and calculating Jourdain Garmot; and the merciless, cold-hearted new OP-Nine, Nueve.
The third installment in the Alfred Kropp series is intoxicating entertainment that keeps you holding your breath until the end. I loved "The Thirteenth Skull" and hope this isn't the last of Alfred Kropp's adventures.
December 14, 2016
This book was a satisfactory ending to the Alfred Kropp series. This one picks up after the first one by just a few days, maybe a couple weeks, and starts off with a bang. Literally. From there, it's all action and poor Alfred being shipped around by OIPEP agents or forced to travel because of OIPEP agents. I felt like this one wasn't as magnificent as the second book, though it still with a good read. Alfred has changed into a really intelligent and confident character who has flaws that he constantly tries to overcome. I'm glad that Ashley, Sam, and Abigail come back in this one and you see more of Alfred's vulnerable side. I like how the author brings back the hurt and pain that Alfred feels from losing those close to him, but he doesn't make the character choke up with it. In fact, he uses it to show how much Alfred has grown up from the first book. The only problems that I found, which are quite minor, was that Natalia never showed up again and that this one seemed to skip around a lot. Maybe it's because I don't feel closure with Natalia, like some kind of letter that says "Hey, I'm doing all right. Found nice people, friends, and hope you have a good life, Alfred". Something to just tell me what happened with her. And this one did feel like Alfred was here, then there, then suddenly somewhere else, but maybe it's because I read it so fast with all the action going on? I don't know. I forgot to mention this in my other review, but it appeared in this one as well when it gives you some website pages. Though it's a minor detail, it was a great reminder about secret organizations and it helps set up what might happen later on in the book. Oh, and the countdown was genius! I really thought that was so clever. In the end, it came back into a full, complete circle and overall, I felt like it was just a really good series. I wish there were more! But I'm sure it's not to be since this last book came out five years ago.
February 14, 2017
So Alfred gets one more unplanned adventure. Alfred has a very special gift inside him. Everyone wants this gift,they want what he has. They want the Seal and Excalibur. All these important artifacts and more secrets. They literly want to extract the secrets of Alfred.
*why do authors write about peeing? I know everyone does. Even fictional people have to pee.
They just jump all over locations. So there isn't a sense of one location. I feel like pacing is in the middle of fast and slow. Alfredds action s are believable because he just wants to do the right thing. He never asked to be sucked in. He didn't even know he had a destiny. The dialogue feels too much back and forth to me. Most dialogues feel like actual talking.
I thought there was another item to discover but there wasn't. I've already read most of Rick Yanceys books so I know what his writing is like. The ending makes me feel like there could be more to the series.
*why do authors write about peeing? I know everyone does. Even fictional people have to pee.
They just jump all over locations. So there isn't a sense of one location. I feel like pacing is in the middle of fast and slow. Alfredds action s are believable because he just wants to do the right thing. He never asked to be sucked in. He didn't even know he had a destiny. The dialogue feels too much back and forth to me. Most dialogues feel like actual talking.
I thought there was another item to discover but there wasn't. I've already read most of Rick Yanceys books so I know what his writing is like. The ending makes me feel like there could be more to the series.
June 3, 2009
After saving the world from complete destruction twice, you'd think Alfred could get a chance to sit back and relax for a bit. Nope. This book takes up just minutes after The Seal of Solomon ends, and it's back into the fray for Alfred.
If you haven't heard of this series (and it seems to be a well kept secret), you are missing out. Alfred is an unlikely hero. He's a pretty normal guy. But he finds himself over and over again in extraordinary situations.
I don't want to say too much here, in case you haven't read the first two, but I will say that several characters are back. The most frightening this time around, though, is Special Operative Nueve, a complete psychopath who is either Alfred's only hope or his worst nightmare.
I love this series! Alfred is such a great character. I think what makes him so appealing is that he has absolute certainty that he really is no one special. But he's the only one who can do what he does. He makes the right choice, again and again, even if that is a tough choice for himself. He never fails. That's what I love about him.
Highly recommended. This is a violent series, with lots of religious references, but it would be great for most teens. Plenty of action, no real language, and a great hero.
If you haven't heard of this series (and it seems to be a well kept secret), you are missing out. Alfred is an unlikely hero. He's a pretty normal guy. But he finds himself over and over again in extraordinary situations.
I don't want to say too much here, in case you haven't read the first two, but I will say that several characters are back. The most frightening this time around, though, is Special Operative Nueve, a complete psychopath who is either Alfred's only hope or his worst nightmare.
I love this series! Alfred is such a great character. I think what makes him so appealing is that he has absolute certainty that he really is no one special. But he's the only one who can do what he does. He makes the right choice, again and again, even if that is a tough choice for himself. He never fails. That's what I love about him.
Highly recommended. This is a violent series, with lots of religious references, but it would be great for most teens. Plenty of action, no real language, and a great hero.
June 5, 2011
Third in the series, and Rick Yancey's getting better and better! Alex Rider fans should pick up this series -- Thirteenth Skull will be right up their alleys. Car chases, explosions, escapes from remote mountain fortresses, mystery, you name it, it's here. Alfred's being targeted by a new enemy, and those who are supposedly sworn to protect him may actually be putting him in harm's way -- but why? Alfred escapes one harrowing situation only to be faced with another and another as he follows the trail of clues about the thirteenth skull. I like the writing in this one best out of the three so far -- Yancey adds just the right balance of humor to the action, and that makes it fun to read:
" Then Delivery Dude was on me. I saw a flash of metal. The blade in his hand was at least a foot long, tapered, thin... First, I had to neutralize the knife: one of my long-term goals was never to be stabbed to death again."
Though it helps to have read the other two books, like Horowitz's Alex Rider series, it's not crucial since the author gives you plenty of backstory clues to keep you up to speed. 6th grade and up.
" Then Delivery Dude was on me. I saw a flash of metal. The blade in his hand was at least a foot long, tapered, thin... First, I had to neutralize the knife: one of my long-term goals was never to be stabbed to death again."
Though it helps to have read the other two books, like Horowitz's Alex Rider series, it's not crucial since the author gives you plenty of backstory clues to keep you up to speed. 6th grade and up.
May 2, 2016
Alfred Kropp and the Thirteenth Skull is an action packed read. That said, there isn't really a great story and that leaves the read wanting more. I first picked up this book and didn't know that it was the third in the series, but figured that I would read it anyway and see if it was any good. It starts of with a few high speed chases and a bunch of action sequences, but you are never really sure where the story is going until around halfway through the book. After you get that far the book starts to get better in the story aspect and Nueve starts to be an easy to hate villain. Ashley is a girl who pretends to get close to Alfred, but she is really working with OIPEP and Nueve, but I wish that she was in the story more than she was. She was a really interesting character, but only relevant for a few chapters. I really liked the way that the story ended because there was a big meeting where you think Alfred is going to get killed, but then he ends up surviving and it was just a really action packed and exciting ending. So overall there is a large amount of action in the book, but the story is something less than desired.
July 21, 2011
Before Urban Fantasy was A Thing, Rick Yancey was exploring the idea of it in his vastly underrated Alfred Kropp series.
Alfred had a lot going on at the end of The Ring of Solomon. It looked like his life was finally in some semblance of order.
But all it takes to send him back into near disaster is one errant knight who needs his head-his actual, honest to goodness head-in order to bring forth the power of Merlin and destroy the world. Again.
Alfred discovers how far the OIPEP reaches, and exactly what kind of man Samuel actually is.
While the it does round out the series by presenting Alfred as almost a grown man, I cannot help but want more. This is an action packed, fast paced series that is equal parts fun with real emotion. You want Alfred to succeed, so much. You want Samuel to be a good man, because you know he wants to be a good man. Just a fabulous book all around, though I wouldn't say no to more from this series.
Alfred had a lot going on at the end of The Ring of Solomon. It looked like his life was finally in some semblance of order.
But all it takes to send him back into near disaster is one errant knight who needs his head-his actual, honest to goodness head-in order to bring forth the power of Merlin and destroy the world. Again.
Alfred discovers how far the OIPEP reaches, and exactly what kind of man Samuel actually is.
While the it does round out the series by presenting Alfred as almost a grown man, I cannot help but want more. This is an action packed, fast paced series that is equal parts fun with real emotion. You want Alfred to succeed, so much. You want Samuel to be a good man, because you know he wants to be a good man. Just a fabulous book all around, though I wouldn't say no to more from this series.
April 30, 2010
"Alfred Kropp: The Thirteenth Skull" is the 3rd thrilling novel that Rick Yancey has published in the Alfred Kropp series. Alfred, Samuel, and Mr. Needlemier are all plunged into violence and assassination right away. Alfred has found out his old arch-nemesis has a son who is intent on avenging his father's death by killing Alfred. Suddenly Alfred doesn't know who to trust. His old friends have buried secrets while new friends turn out to by enemies. Who is Alfred supposed to trust? What is the Thirteenth Skull? Has he really gone mad?
This book keeps Yancey's streak going. I thought this book was exceptionally well written with action but I also felt a very deep meaning to this as well as James Patterson: "'The Thirteenth Skull' brings new meaning to the idea of a life-and-death adventure. The action is fast, furious and nonstop-and so is the fun"
This book keeps Yancey's streak going. I thought this book was exceptionally well written with action but I also felt a very deep meaning to this as well as James Patterson: "'The Thirteenth Skull' brings new meaning to the idea of a life-and-death adventure. The action is fast, furious and nonstop-and so is the fun"
July 2, 2021
Started out pretty strong and exciting, but the more it went on, the more it was revealed that really it was just Alfred wandering around trying to figure out what's going on, and it ends up that not much IS going on. There really is no ultimate goal, no ultimate end-of-the-world situation that Alfred can fix, just a bunch of running around from stupid jerks who want to kill him for various reasons. For a few moments at the end, it looked like it was going to be a fabulous conclusion to a trilogy containing one fabulous book (Seal of Solomon). But then there was an epilogue. So it's just a pretty good ending to a trilogy containing one pretty good book (Extraordinary Adventures). It gets extra points because Rick Yancey can write ambling-around-aimlessly surprisingly well, and Alfred Kropp is still a cool character even if the plot is lacking.
October 24, 2013
This is the book you have been waiting for. Every injustice Alfred Kropp has suffered up to now has driven him to this moment. Choosing between the guys who want to kill him and the guys who want to lock him away in a lab for the rest of his life. Alfred chooses door number three but is rudely informed that there isn't one. So he makes one. Alfred is on the run again in this final non-stop thriller that will keep you flipping pages into the wee hours of the morning. Another side effect is that you will thank God for every mundane normal blessing that you have, because I wouldn't wish this kids life on anyone. Good thing it's just fiction.
Story wise, I love the continuity between the three books. Trust me you need to read the first two before you tackle this book or you will be lost.
Story wise, I love the continuity between the three books. Trust me you need to read the first two before you tackle this book or you will be lost.
July 29, 2016
These books are like James Bond and Indiana Jones had a baby. Seriously. (And sorry for the mental imagery.)
In the third installment, we have bombs implanted in people's brains, secret bases, a mysterious legend of the Skull of Doom, and poor Alfred just trying to catch a break. What makes these books so great is the combination of nonstop action and Alfred's deadpan sense of humor. I think this one may be my favorite, and I'm a little bit sad because it might be the last one, judging from the ending.
In the third installment, we have bombs implanted in people's brains, secret bases, a mysterious legend of the Skull of Doom, and poor Alfred just trying to catch a break. What makes these books so great is the combination of nonstop action and Alfred's deadpan sense of humor. I think this one may be my favorite, and I'm a little bit sad because it might be the last one, judging from the ending.
September 7, 2013
First off, I loved the Alfred Kropp series. I guess that's why this one was disappointing for me. So many unanswered questions. What happened to Mike Arnold? I loved to hate that guy. I usually love the action scenes, but these were too over the top. Alfred was like superman, walking away from being slung off of the tops of moving vehicles like it was no biggie. His decisions seemed odd and unrealistic in this one as well. Very anticlimactic in my humble opinion.
That being said, Yancey is still one of my favorite current authors and I will be picking up his latest soon.
That being said, Yancey is still one of my favorite current authors and I will be picking up his latest soon.
August 15, 2015
Another exciting adventure with teen secret agent Alfred Kropp! The action starts on the second page and doesn't let up until the end, when the reader is just as tired of the violence as poor Alfred. In this installment, Alfred isn't sure who to trust or who is after him or even why- he just knows that he doesn't want anyone else to end up dead because of him. He makes the best decisions he can in the awful circumstances he finds himself, and ultimately makes the world a little bit better along the way. A fun read for that last day at the pool!
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