"The story line is loaded with action and philosophy"

Ender Wiggins led the victory over the Formics, but his brother Peter is named the Hegemon, leader of the waning worldwide government, a victim of its own success. Peter learns that the Chinese are afraid and weary of his rival Achilles, who has helped them expand their boundaries. They incarcerate the dangerous Achilles, but Peter rescues his enemy only to realize rather quickly that his foe is crazier, deadlier, and more devious than he imagined. Achilles takes power from Peter.

Peter's strongest ally Bean leaves to start a family with Petra before he dies, which is sooner than later. Bean and Petra agree that their children will not carry Anton's Key in their genes, as that is what is causing Bean's premature death. However, Achilles has his own plans for these unborn offsprings that include speeding up the deaths of the parents.

SHADOW PUPPETS is an interesting side installment in the Ender's Earth series though the title character is not the prime player as this novel focuses on Peter, Bean, and Petra. The story line is loaded with action and philosophy with Orson Scott Card contemplating the relationships between parents and children, among siblings, friends, and lovers, and amidst major religions. Though at times pontificating over the need of servicing one's community, the latest entry in this popular series proves the author still holds four aces when it comes to engaging the reader.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted August 12, 2002