Entry Details
Title: The Keepers' New Army
Author: David Stevens
Genre: Fiction/Sci-Fi/Fantasy/Horror
Audience: Children's/YA/Middle Grade
Word Count: 85000
Author: David Stevens
Genre: Fiction/Sci-Fi/Fantasy/Horror
Audience: Children's/YA/Middle Grade
Word Count: 85000
Assessment:
Plot/Idea: Stevens delivers a riveting story following four children whose lives come together for a greater purpose in the face of something truly bizarre. With both sets of siblings—Lake and Adam, Verona and Lincoln—dealing with what ranges from frustrating parental decisions to possible terrible loss, they are suddenly pushed together to go on the adventure of a lifetime. What ensues is a gripping quest, led by a mysterious force, with the highest of stakes.
Prose: Stevens's prose is clear and detailed, convincingly relaying what the main characters see and experience, whether that is a hospital room, an upended car, or a cozy house. The dynamics between siblings ring true, and their growth as the story progresses is beautiful to see.
Originality: The Keepers' New Army is a suspenseful book full of twists and turns, built on a secret world that comes to life. The four tenacious kids at the center set off to do something beyond their wildest imagination, inspiring readers to rise above what they thought they were capable of and accomplish great feats in the face of danger.
Character/Execution: Stevens constructs compelling perspectives of the primary characters, playing out through their interactions with each other and with adults as well as how they perceive the world around them. In contrast to those vibrant personalities, the story's adult figures can feel a bit distant and flat. However, the youth are bright foils and constantly dynamic characters who grow and transform while having to overcome massive undertakings they never imagined they'd face.
Score:
li Plot/Idea: 8 li Originality: 9 li Prose/Storytelling: 7 li Character/Execution: 8 li Overall: 8.00
Report Submitted: October 4, 2026
