Price Of Eden by Brian Burt is the third book in the science fiction fantasy series Aquarius Rising. This is a book that would appeal most to a mixed audience of adults and young adults who have read and enjoyed the Aquarius Rising series. This book takes place directly after the previous book with Ocypode, an Aquarian Atavism who is Chief Lorekeeper of Phylamook Reef, having the weight of destiny on his shoulders as he is believed to be the mythical figure that the prophecy of the Storm-Slayer proclaims will defuse the conflict between humans and Aquarians. Is Ocypode the one the prophecy speaks of; will he fulfill the prophecy of the Storm-Slayer, or will he break under the weight of destiny?

Price Of Eden by Brian Burt is a very well-written book that introduces a whole new species known as the Aquarians. I personally found the Aquarians to be very interesting because the author really created his own unique species instead of just reusing a popular fantasy species like fairies or elves. After reading this book, I would recommend that readers begin with book one as I missed out on some important character development and plot creation through not reading the series in order. That aside, I liked the way the author threw me head first into the plot and did not waste time with needless background information. I found that the prophecy of the Storm-Slayer and Ocypode’s role in it reminded me a bit of the Harry Potter series in that both main characters have to contend with a prophecy and other characters believe them to be the figure spoken of in the prophecy. Overall, I greatly enjoyed Ocypode’s adventure and I plan to go back and read the previous books in the series!

Creating peace between the humans and the Aquarians is not going to be an easy feat, and Ocypode knows that, but it’s still his dream to see peace restored. With men like Hawkins, however, leading the fray against the Aquarians, it may be more difficult than even he ever thought. It’s going to take a lot more than just pleading with each side to realize this goal. But how many will be killed in both areas before it happens? And will the entire planet be destroyed? Or can it be saved? It’s difficult to know who the allies are and who your enemies are in Price of Eden by Brian Burt. As war continues, will the Saurians, the Talpidians, the Aquarians, the humans and everyone else be able to survive? Or will the casualties continue to mount up?

This book is full of new characters and old characters. It’s a continuation of the story of the Aquarian people and their world, which introduces you to something totally new, but it’s also a story of the human world. The characters are each flawed, but intriguing, characters you want to learn more about and can actually understand in a number of different ways. This is a story that you won’t soon forget and that you’ll want to read more of. You’ll want to look back at the older stories as well, though you can definitely enjoy this one without them. Price of Eden by Brian Burt is filled with just enough action and just enough romance to keep you reading.

Price of Eden represents the final book in the Aquarius Rising trilogy; and because it's the culmination of events and tensions raised in prior volumes, it's recommended for followers of Brian Burt's series who will appreciate the smooth continuation of a story that revolves around a civil war that erupts in an underground kingdom after a series of carefully crafted plagues are let loose.

Ocypode, an Aquarian Atavism, has successfully foiled a deadly plot; but he's ultimately charged with bringing together two very different factions in a race against time and political alliances, and his perceived destiny as a mythic peacemaker may be an impossible role for him to accept.

Familiarity with the prior books in the series will lend to an appreciation of Ocypode's agony and conflicts as he strives to achieve the impossible in an underwater realm which may be the last enclave of a much-changed world.

From restless spirits with psychic harpoons to terrorism's barbaric but effective choices, high-stakes encounters between Humans and Aquarians, Guardian friends who watch over Ocypode and prevent him from making stupid mistakes, and the slaughter of innocent humans through competing bioweapons, Price of Eden provides a fast-paced romp through a world that holds different, competing options for survival, and considers both the sacrifices of war and the impossible circumstances of continued existence.

As moral and ethical questions about friendships and associations permeate a greater story of this war's impact on all involved, Price of Eden evolves beyond bloodlust and outrage to walk a delicate line between a survival story and a political sci-fi thriller. Descriptions of advanced technology used for warfare (nanomechs and viral mutagens) and the price to be paid for choices that result in dubious 'win' situations for only some contribute to a story line charged not just with action, but with thought-provoking dilemmas.

Fans of his prior books will appreciate the unexpected directions Brian Burt takes as he ultimately considers the real nature and definition of 'Eden' and the price all will pay to forge new paths towards peace.