Relic Hamilton Genie Hunter: Door of the Dead
Joseph Coelho, illustrated by Hyun Song We
Walker Books

Relic is now settling into his new genie hunter role and while out with some fellow members of the Hermitic Sodality, Buston a genie appears, saying that he’s been searching for him. He warns Relic that Ravenna has discovered the whereabouts of the lamp imprisoning the Archivist, an ally of the evil genie. Made to look like a book and hidden in a library it is hoped that nobody will discover it and start making wishes. Such wishes might result in the Archivist’s escape, the result being an immensely powerful ally for Ravenna. Consequently, it’s vital that Relic and the other humans locate this book-lamp before Ravenna.

Following the accidental release of the Archivist, the Sodality focus attention on recapturing the genie. However members of the Syndicate of Ghost Emancipators approach, informing them that the Archivist intends to Open the Door of the Dead using the granting of people’s wishes to do so thus allowing those who have died to return to the world. Relic and members of both Sodality and the Syndicate will need to work together to recapture both evil genies, if not disaster will likely follow.

Relic has become much more confident in his abilities since he discovered his genie hunter and Wielder of the Lamps role, something which allows him to work alongside the sprites that are held with the six lamps he owns; but faced with the threats posed by not one but two evil genies, can he cope with the much greater danger and problems he now faces? Can Relic and those of the two organisations work together to recapture both of them, and what will happen if they can’t?

Another element of the story is Relic’s awareness that Tanya is still missing. He is keen to try and find her but isn’t given the opportunity here, though readers hear from her occasionally during this book, paving the way for the next, which is heralded by a promise of Relic’s return at the end. With plenty of black and white illustrations, I strongly recommended the thrilling Door of the Dead for readers of nine and above.