In the conclusion to the 'Leviathan' series by Scott Westerfeld, 'Goliath' follows Alek and Deryn on a rescue mission to Siberia where they encounter Nikola Tesla and his powerful weapon aimed at ending WWI. As the plot unfolds, Alek discovers Deryn's true identity and risks everything to save her from exposure and danger. The book seamlessly integrates a riveting tale with real historical figures, creating a world where Darwinists with fabricated creatures clash with Clankers and their massive machines. The action-packed adventure takes the characters across different continents, culminating in a satisfying conclusion that leaves room for potential spin-offs.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with Deryn as a strong heroine and Alek as a dynamically evolving prince, complemented by a mix of historical figures that deepen the story.

Writing/Prose:

Westerfeld's writing style is imaginative and engaging, combining vivid descriptions with a balance of action and character development that enhances the story's steampunk atmosphere.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers around Alek and Deryn's efforts to stop World War I while navigating personal secrets and historical events, culminating in significant choices that shape their futures.

Setting:

The setting spans several global locations during World War I, featuring the Leviathan airship as a pivotal element that embodies the novel's themes.

Pacing:

The pacing of the story is brisk and engaging, effectively blending action with character development.

Another week of flying across this wasteland, Alek thought. Farther from Europe and the war, and from his destiny. The Leviathan was still headed east, probably toward the empire of Japan, though no o...

Notes:

Goliath is the final installment in Scott Westerfeld's Leviathan trilogy.

The characters Alek and Deryn travel across the globe, including places like Siberia, Japan, and New York City.

Deryn has been disguising herself as a boy for the entire series, and Alek finally learns her secret in this book.

The story features real historical figures like Nikola Tesla, who plays a significant role in the plot.

Westerfeld's world blends steampunk elements with an alternate history of World War I.

Deryn is portrayed as a strong and capable heroine who does not let romance overpower her character development.

The series contains beautiful illustrations by Keith Thompson, which enhance the storytelling experience.

The ending of Goliath wraps up the major plot points without feeling too rushed or predictable.

Westerfeld's writing incorporates elements of action, diplomacy, and personal growth in a historical context.

Has Romance?

Romance is present in Goliath but is a side plot to the more significant themes of adventure and war.

From The Publisher:

The riveting conclusion to Scott Westerfeld's New York Times bestselling trilogy that's "sure to become a classic" (School Library Journal).

Alek and Deryn are on the last leg of their round-the-world quest to end World War I, reclaim Alek's throne as prince of Austria, and finally fall in love. The first two objectives are complicated by the fact that their ship, the Leviathan, continues to detour farther away from the heart of the war (and crown). And the love thing would be a lot easier if Alek knew Deryn was a girl. (She has to pose as a boy in order to serve in the British Air Service.) And if they weren't technically enemies.

The tension thickens as the Leviathan steams toward New York City with a homicidal lunatic on board: Secrets suddenly unravel, characters reappear, and nothing is as it seems in this thunderous conclusion to Scott Westerfeld's brilliant trilogy.

Ratings (13)

Incredible (5)
Loved It (4)
Liked It (3)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (20):

Read It (14)
Want To Read (3)
Not Interested (3)

What can you read after
Goliath?

About the Author:

Scott Westerfeld is the author of the Leviathan series, the first book of which was the winner of the 2010 Locus Award for Best Young Adult Fiction. His other novels include the New York Times bestseller Afterworlds, the worldwide bestselling Uglies series, The Last Days, Peeps, So Yesterday, and the Midnighters trilogy. Visit him at ScottWesterfeld.com or follow him on Twitter at @ScottWesterfeld.

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Goliath

Scott Westerfeld

Book 3 in the series:Leviathan