Fast-paced and self contained - a great introduction

I'm really intrigued by the first impression of this book. The first chapter throws you straight into the middle of the action, as we are shown the viewpoint of Damien (a boy who has been kidnapped). The effect of this chapter is immediate and is completely chilling, I really want to know a resolution to this story. We then meet the rest of the group following the events from the second book (I believe) and the discovery that one of the group has been kidnapped and the group needs to find her as soon as possible. It is a good set up, as there is enough information from the previous books to allow a complete novice to be able to understand what is going on, along with the relations of the characters to the main villain of the piece.

I think it is well written, moving at an incredible pace (perhaps a bit too quick as the incident with Thomas completely lacked impact, which was a shame and I hope that this wont be continued throughout the book). I do enjoy the writing style and think that this is going to be a great read.