Synopsis
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Pacing
- Fast
- Mood
- Suspenseful, Action-packed, Dark, Adventurous
- Read it if
- You enjoy fast-paced, high-stakes YA thrillers with a blend of ancient mythology and modern-day espionage, or if you're a fan of Anthony Horowitz's other works like 'Alex Rider'.
- Skip it if
- You prefer standalone novels, dislike cliffhangers, or are not interested in stories with supernatural elements and significant violence for a young adult audience.
Evil Star Plot Summary
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
Escape and a New Beginning (or Not)
After the terrible events at Raven's Gate, Matt Freeman lives with his social worker, Mrs. Deverill, in London. He tries to live a normal life and go to school, but nightmares and the trauma of his past haunt him. One day, on his way home, he sees a man with a distinct scar. This sight brings back a strong feeling of dread from Raven's Gate. This shatters his peace, confirming his fears that the Old Ones are still active and he is not safe. He tells Mrs. Deverill, but she dismisses it as a hallucination, making Matt feel even more alone.
The Arrival of Richard Cole
Matt's life changes again when Richard Cole, a mysterious and knowledgeable man, appears. Cole says he works for a secret group fighting the Old Ones and confirms Matt's fears. He explains that Matt is one of 'The Five,' children with special powers who will either save or destroy the world. Cole tells Matt that another of The Five, a boy named Pedro, is in Peru and is in great danger. He also reveals that the Old Ones are looking for The Five and getting ready to open a new gate, which will bring their full power into the world. Matt, though at first unwilling, understands how serious the situation is.
Journey to Peru and a Desperate Search
Matt and Richard Cole begin a dangerous trip to Peru. In Lima, they immediately encounter the city's hidden side, a world very different from Matt's past. They learn that Pedro, a street orphan, is known for his unusual abilities and has become a target. The Old Ones' agents, led by the ruthless Salamanda, are already in the city, using their resources to track Pedro. Matt and Richard navigate dangerous slums, corrupt officials, and the constant threat of Salamanda's men, trying to find Pedro before it is too late. The search is hard because of the language barrier and Pedro's tendency to hide.
Pedro's World and the Power of the Sun
After several close calls and a tense chase through Lima's crowded markets and hidden alleys, Matt and Richard find Pedro. Pedro is a thin, cautious boy, at first not trusting the strangers. But when Matt connects with him through their shared unusual abilities, Pedro starts to open up. Pedro shows his power, which connects to the sun's energy. He can draw warmth and power from it, using it to heal or, when very stressed, as a defensive burst of light and heat. This power is wild and untrained, very different from Matt's telekinesis, but just as strong. They realize the Old Ones want to control or stop this power.
Salamanda's Trap and the Nazca Lines
Salamanda, a rich and powerful businessman secretly working for the Old Ones, eventually corners and captures Pedro. Matt and Richard, upset by this setback, find out that Salamanda plans to take Pedro to a remote place linked to the ancient Nazca Lines. These mysterious drawings, Richard explains, are not just old art but also hold great power and connect to the next Gate. They realize Salamanda plans to use Pedro's powers, or sacrifice him, to help open this new Gate. Matt and Richard, despite being outnumbered, decide to rescue Pedro and stop the Gate from opening, knowing the world's fate rests on them.
The Nazca Plateau and Ancient Secrets
Matt and Richard arrive at the desolate Nazca Plateau, where Salamanda has a heavily guarded compound. They manage to get inside, finding that Salamanda is using advanced technology and ancient rituals to control the energy of the Nazca Lines. Richard explains that the Lines are channels for huge cosmic power, and Salamanda is trying to align them to open the second Gate, called the Gate of the Sun. They see the terrifying scale of Salamanda's operation and the ruthless efficiency of his guards. Pedro is held captive, his energy slowly being drained or controlled to power the ritual. Matt feels a growing sense of urgency and determination.
The Ritual Begins and Pedro's Plea
As the sun sets over the Nazca Plateau, Salamanda begins the ritual to open the Gate of the Sun. Pedro is placed at the center of a complex energy grid, his powers forcefully amplified and channeled. The air crackles with energy, and strange, unsettling sounds come from the ground. Matt, hidden nearby, feels a psychic link to Pedro, seeing flashes of the boy's fear and pain. Pedro, despite being weak, tries to communicate with Matt, his thoughts conveying a desperate plea and a warning about the immense power being released. Matt realizes he must act immediately, even if it means risking everything.
Showdown at the Gate of the Sun
Matt launches a desperate attack on Salamanda's operation. Using his growing telekinetic abilities, he creates distractions and disables guards, drawing Salamanda's attention. A fierce fight follows between Matt and Salamanda, who reveals his own link to the Old Ones and his fanatical loyalty to their return. Matt struggles against Salamanda's greater resources and many men. Meanwhile, Richard Cole works to disrupt the ritual's energy flow. The fight is intense, with the world's fate at stake as the Gate of the Sun begins to flicker open, threatening to unleash the Old Ones.
Pedro's Sacrifice and the Gate's Closure
Just as the Gate of the Sun is about to fully open, unleashing the Old Ones, Pedro makes a heroic and tragic choice. Using all his remaining power, he releases a massive, uncontrolled burst of solar energy, overwhelming Salamanda's machinery and stopping the Gate from opening. This act, while successful in preventing the Old Ones' full emergence, comes at a terrible cost. Pedro is consumed by the power he uses, his body turning into pure light. The Gate collapses, leaving behind a scarred landscape and a deep sense of loss. Salamanda is defeated, his plans ruined, but The Five are now one less.
Aftermath and a New Mission
After the battle at Nazca, Matt is left stunned by Pedro's sacrifice. He feels guilt and sorrow, struggling with the idea that he could not save his fellow member of The Five. Richard Cole, though also grieving, reminds Matt that Pedro's sacrifice was not in vain; it bought them time. He explains that the Old Ones will not give up and that there are still three other members of The Five to find. Matt, hardened by his experiences and driven by a desire for revenge for Pedro, accepts his role in the larger conflict. He knows his fight is far from over, and the next Gate waits in another part of the world.
Evil Star Characters
Matt Freeman
Protagonist
One of The Five, possessing telekinetic abilities.
Matt is a troubled teenager, initially an orphan who escaped the horrors of Raven's Gate. He possesses innate telekinetic powers, which are growing stronger but are still largely uncontrolled. He is initially reluctant to embrace his destiny as one of The Five, longing for a normal life, but is repeatedly forced into action by the encroaching threat of the Old Ones. He is brave, fiercely loyal, and driven by a strong sense of justice, though he carries the emotional scars of his past.
Relationships: Richard Cole (mentor and protector); Pedro (fellow member of The Five, a bond of shared destiny); Mrs. Deverill (social worker, initially a source of stability, later a symbol of the normal life he can't have)
Richard Cole
Supporting
Agent of a secret organization and Matt's mentor.
Richard Cole is a seasoned and knowledgeable agent working for an organization dedicated to fighting the Old Ones. He serves as Matt's primary guide and protector, providing crucial information about The Five, the Old Ones, and the unfolding prophecy. He is calm, resourceful, and deeply committed to his mission, often acting as a voice of reason and strategy. Despite his professional demeanor, he cares deeply for Matt and the other members of The Five, though he understands the harsh realities of their war.
Relationships: Matt Freeman (mentor and protector); Pedro (colleague and object of protection)
Pedro
Supporting
One of The Five, with a powerful connection to the sun.
Pedro is a street orphan from Lima, Peru, and the second discovered member of The Five. He possesses a unique and raw power derived from the sun's energy, which he can use for healing or as a destructive force. He is initially wary and distrustful due to his harsh life on the streets but forms a bond with Matt through their shared destiny. Pedro is brave and resilient, willing to sacrifice himself for the greater good, despite his youth and lack of formal training.
Relationships: Matt Freeman (fellow member of The Five, a bond of shared destiny); Richard Cole (protector and guide)
Diego Salamanda
Antagonist
Wealthy businessman and fanatical servant of the Old Ones.
Diego Salamanda is a powerful and ruthless Peruvian businessman, secretly a devoted servant of the Old Ones. He uses his vast wealth and influence to track and capture Pedro, intending to use his powers to open the Gate of the Sun. Salamanda is cunning, manipulative, and utterly devoid of empathy, driven by a fanatical belief in the Old Ones' return and the power they will bring. He represents the human face of the Old Ones' influence, demonstrating how easily power and corruption can be wielded against humanity.
Relationships: Old Ones (fanatical servant); Matt Freeman (arch-nemesis during the Peru arc); Pedro (captor and exploiter)
Mrs. Deverill
Mentioned
Matt's social worker in London.
Mrs. Deverill is Matt's well-meaning but ultimately naive social worker in London. She provides him with a temporary home and attempts to help him adjust to a normal life after Raven's Gate. She is kind but unable to comprehend the supernatural threats Matt faces, dismissing his concerns as trauma-induced hallucinations. Her presence highlights Matt's isolation and the impossibility of a 'normal' life for him.
Relationships: Matt Freeman (social worker and temporary guardian)
The Old Ones
Antagonist
Ancient, malevolent entities seeking to return to Earth.
The Old Ones are ancient, malevolent entities from another dimension, seeking to break through the Gates and reclaim Earth. They are not physical beings in the traditional sense but exert their influence through human servants like Salamanda and through psychic manipulation. Their presence is felt as a growing dread and a corrupting force, and their ultimate goal is to enslave or destroy humanity. They represent the overarching, existential threat to the world.
Relationships: Diego Salamanda (master and devotee); The Five (enemies and targets)
Evil Star Themes
Destiny vs. Free Will
The series often asks if Matt and The Five are merely acting out a prophecy or if they can choose their own paths. Matt at first resists his destiny, wanting a normal life, but is repeatedly pulled back into the supernatural conflict. Pedro's sacrifice, while fulfilling part of the prophecy (stopping the Gate), also feels like a choice, a desperate act of free will against a powerful force. The characters deal with the huge weight of their fated roles while trying to make their own decisions within those limits.
“You are one of The Five, Matt. There's no escaping that. It’s what you do with it that matters.”
The Burden of Power
Matt and Pedro both have extraordinary powers, but these abilities come with great responsibility and personal cost. Matt struggles to control his telekinesis, often using it when scared or angry, while Pedro's sun power is raw and dangerous, eventually leading to his death. The book shows that power is not good or evil; its effect depends on the user's choices and the sacrifices they will make. The characters learn that their gifts are both a help and a burden, isolating them even as they empower them.
“His power was a wildfire inside him, beautiful and terrible all at once.”
Sacrifice and Loss
A main theme is that winning against evil often requires a great sacrifice. Pedro's death at the end of the book is a clear example, as he gives his life to stop the Gate from fully opening. This loss deeply affects Matt, fueling his resolve but also burdening him with grief. The story stresses that the fight against the Old Ones has heavy casualties, and the heroes must be willing to pay a high price for the world's safety. It shows the emotional cost of war and heroism.
“The Gate was closed, but the price… the price was too high.”
The Corrupting Influence of Evil
The Old Ones' influence reaches beyond direct fights, corrupting people like Salamanda and various institutions. Salamanda, a rich and powerful man, willingly serves the Old Ones, driven by a twisted desire for power and a belief in their superiority. His actions show how human greed and ambition can be used by darker forces. The widespread corruption Matt and Richard find in Peru — from officials to street gangs — shows how the Old Ones' evil presence seeps into society, making it hard to tell friend from foe and highlighting evil's hidden nature.
“Power. That’s all they care about. And they’ll give it to those who serve them.”
The Nature of Good and Evil
The book explores the clear difference between good and evil, shown by The Five and the Old Ones. However, it also looks at the complexities within this, especially in the struggles Matt faces and the sacrifices made by characters like Pedro. The Old Ones are shown as an ancient, clearly evil force, while the fight against them is messy and full of moral problems and personal costs. It suggests that good is not just the absence of evil, but an active, often painful, choice.
“There are things in this world that are simply evil, Matt. And they must be fought.”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
The Five
A group of five children destined to confront the Old Ones.
The concept of 'The Five' is a central plot device, serving as the driving force behind the narrative. It establishes a clear prophecy and a sense of shared destiny for the protagonists. Each member of The Five possesses unique powers and abilities, making their collective strength essential to defeating the Old Ones. This device creates a quest structure, as Matt and Richard must locate the other members, and also heightens the stakes, as the loss of any member (like Pedro) has significant consequences for the overall mission.
The Gates
Dimensional portals that allow the Old Ones to enter Earth.
The Gates are critical plot devices that mark the progression of the Old Ones' plan and provide distinct objectives for Matt and his allies. Each Gate represents a specific location and a unique challenge, requiring different strategies and presenting new dangers. The opening of a Gate signifies a major escalation in the conflict, threatening to unleash more of the Old Ones' power onto Earth. The 'Gate of the Sun' in Peru, specifically tied to the Nazca Lines and Pedro's powers, demonstrates the varied nature of these portals and their connection to ancient sites and specific powers.
Prophecy
An ancient prediction foretelling the conflict between The Five and the Old Ones.
The overarching prophecy serves as a foundational plot device, providing context and direction for the characters' actions. It establishes the high stakes of the conflict, suggesting a preordained battle for the fate of the world. While giving purpose, it also creates a sense of foreboding and fatalism, as characters grapple with the implications of their predestined roles. The prophecy is slowly revealed through Richard Cole, guiding the characters toward their next objectives and explaining the significance of their powers and encounters.
Ancient Artifacts/Sites
Historical locations or objects imbued with supernatural power.
Ancient artifacts and sites, specifically the Nazca Lines in Peru, are crucial plot devices that link the supernatural conflict to real-world history and mysticism. These locations are not merely backdrops but active components in the Old Ones' plans, serving as conduits for power or points of ingress for the Gates. They add a layer of depth to the world-building, suggesting that the conflict between good and evil has ancient roots and is intertwined with humanity's past. The manipulation of the Nazca Lines by Salamanda demonstrates their potent, mystical significance.
Evil Star Quotes
“The past is never dead. It's not even past.”
“Sometimes you have to do what's right, even if it means doing something wrong.”
“There are some things that are better left undisturbed, some doors that should never be opened.”
“Fear is a powerful weapon, and often, it's the only one they need.”
“The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn't exist.”
“You can't fight fire with fire. Sometimes you have to be smarter, more cunning.”
“Every choice has a consequence, and some consequences are irreversible.”
“Hope is a dangerous thing. It can keep you going, but it can also blind you.”
“The world is full of shadows, and sometimes, the darkest ones are the ones you least expect.”
“It's not about how strong you are, but how determined you are to keep fighting.”
“History repeats itself, not because we forget, but because we fail to learn.”
“Sometimes the only way to save something is to let it go.”
“The truth is rarely simple, and often, it's more terrifying than any lie.”
“Even in the darkest night, there is always a flicker of light, if you know where to look.”
Quiz
10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.
Question 1
What is the name of the street kid in Peru who is the second of the Five?
- Pedro
- Jamie
- Richard
- Richard Cole
Show answer
D. Richard Cole Richard Cole is the Peruvian street kid, the second of the Five, who encounters Matt in 'Evil Star'.
Question 2
Which ancient civilization's ruins are central to the plot in 'Evil Star', particularly in Peru?
- Aztec
- Maya
- Inca
- Olmec
Show answer
C. Inca The Inca civilization and its ruins, especially the Nazca Lines, play a crucial role in the Peruvian section of 'Evil Star'.
Question 3
What is the primary power that Matt begins to develop and use more frequently in 'Evil Star'?
- Telekinesis
- Telepathy
- Psychic abilities (e.g., seeing the past/future)
- Super strength
Show answer
C. Psychic abilities (e.g., seeing the past/future) Matt's psychic abilities, particularly seeing into the past and future, become more pronounced and vital in 'Evil Star'.
Question 4
What is the name of the organization that helps Matt and the other children, which is introduced more formally in 'Evil Star'?
- The Nexus
- The Night Sentinels
- Nexus
- The Old Guard
Show answer
C. Nexus Nexus is the secret organization dedicated to fighting the Old Ones, and they provide assistance to Matt and the other kids.
Question 5
Which significant historical figure is revealed to have been one of the Five in a previous generation, as detailed in 'Evil Star'?
- Leonardo da Vinci
- Genghis Khan
- Alexander the Great
- Joan of Arc
Show answer
B. Genghis Khan It is revealed that Genghis Khan was a member of the Five in a previous cycle, wielding immense power for good or ill.
Question 6
What is the specific location in Peru where Matt and Richard first meet and begin their joint mission?
- Machu Picchu
- Lima (the capital city)
- The Nazca Lines
- Cusco
Show answer
C. The Nazca Lines Matt travels to Peru and meets Richard near the Nazca Lines, which are crucial to the plot and the opening of the second Gate.
Question 7
What is the primary goal of the Old Ones in 'Evil Star' and the larger series?
- To establish a new world order under human rule
- To return to Earth and reclaim it from humanity
- To destroy all magic in the world
- To merge Earth with another dimension
Show answer
B. To return to Earth and reclaim it from humanity The Old Ones are an ancient, malevolent race seeking to return to Earth through the Gates and re-establish their dominion, wiping out humanity.
Question 8
What is the name of the traitor within Nexus who betrays Matt and Richard in Peru?
- Professor Trelawney
- Mrs. Deverill
- Diego
- Mr. Evergreen
Show answer
C. Diego Diego, a member of Nexus who was supposed to help Matt and Richard, turns out to be a traitor working for the Old Ones' allies.
Question 9
How do Matt and Richard ultimately manage to close the second Gate opened in 'Evil Star'?
- By sacrificing one of the Old Ones' followers
- By using an ancient artifact found in the Inca ruins
- By combining their psychic powers to seal it shut
- By detonating explosives at its epicenter
Show answer
B. By using an ancient artifact found in the Inca ruins They use an ancient Inca artifact, a crystal skull, to close the second Gate at the Nazca Lines, preventing the full return of the Old Ones.
Question 10
What is the significant personal sacrifice Matt makes or nearly makes towards the end of 'Evil Star' that impacts his future?
- He loses his memory of Raven's Gate
- He gives up his psychic abilities to save Richard
- He is forced to kill someone he cares about
- He is gravely injured and almost dies, leaving him with lasting physical and mental scars
Show answer
D. He is gravely injured and almost dies, leaving him with lasting physical and mental scars Matt is critically injured during the closing of the Gate, leading to a coma and severe physical and mental trauma that affects him in later books.
Evil Star FAQ
What is the central premise of 'Evil Star' and how does it connect to the previous book, 'Raven's Gate'?
'Evil Star' continues the story of Matt Freeman, who discovers he is one of five Gatekeepers destined to prevent the Old Ones from returning to Earth. It directly follows the events of 'Raven's Gate,' where Matt first encountered the Old Ones and closed the titular gate, realizing his unique abilities and the larger supernatural conflict he is embroiled in.
Who is Pedro and what is his significance to Matt's journey in this book?
Pedro is a street kid from Peru, the second of the five Gatekeepers. He possesses a unique connection to the supernatural world, specifically a psychic ability that allows him to sense the Old Ones and their influence. His desperate situation and eventual alliance with Matt are crucial as they navigate the dangers in South America and learn more about their shared destiny.
What is the 'second Gate' mentioned in the synopsis, and where is it located?
The second Gate is located in the Nazca Lines in Peru, a site known for its ancient geoglyphs. This Gate is a critical focal point for the Old Ones' return, and Matt and Pedro must work together to find and protect it. Its activation signifies a deepening of the supernatural threat and a more direct confrontation with the Old Ones' human agents.
Who are the Old Ones and what is their ultimate goal?
The Old Ones are ancient, malevolent entities from another dimension, seeking to return to Earth and reclaim it as their own, effectively enslaving or destroying humanity. They manipulate human agents and cults to open gates between dimensions, allowing their dark influence and physical presence to manifest. Their power is immense and their methods are insidious.
What role does the organization Nexus play in 'Evil Star'?
Nexus is a secret organization dedicated to fighting the Old Ones and protecting humanity. They recruit and train individuals with special abilities, including the Gatekeepers, and provide resources and information. Their leader, a mysterious woman known as Ms. Deverill, guides Matt and Pedro, explaining the larger war and their crucial roles within it.
How does the prophecy of the five Gatekeepers unfold in 'Evil Star'?
In 'Evil Star,' the prophecy begins to solidify as Matt encounters Pedro, the second Gatekeeper. Their meeting and subsequent cooperation confirm the ancient predictions about five children destined to stand against the Old Ones. The book lays the groundwork for identifying the other three Gatekeepers, hinting at their diverse backgrounds and powers.
Are there any subtle foreshadowing elements regarding the other Gatekeepers or future events?
Yes, 'Evil Star' includes subtle hints about the other Gatekeepers through ancient texts and cryptic prophecies shared by Nexus. These details suggest their diverse locations and unique abilities, setting the stage for their introductions in subsequent books. The book also foreshadows the immense global scale of the threat and the personal sacrifices required.
What is the significance of the Nazca Lines beyond being a Gate location?
The Nazca Lines are not just a Gate location, but an ancient power source and a focal point for the Old Ones' influence. Their intricate designs are revealed to be more than just art, possibly acting as a protective ward or a map that the Old Ones are trying to corrupt. The history of the region is deeply intertwined with the supernatural conflict.
How do Matt's experiences at Raven's Gate psychologically impact his actions and decisions in 'Evil Star'?
Matt's trauma from Raven's Gate significantly shapes his character in 'Evil Star.' He is more cynical, wary, and haunted by the horrors he witnessed, but also more determined to fight. His past experiences make him quicker to recognize danger and more resilient in the face of the supernatural, though he still struggles with the immense burden placed upon him.
What psychological challenges does Pedro face as a street kid thrust into a global supernatural conflict?
Pedro faces immense psychological challenges, transitioning from a life of survival on the streets to being a chosen hero. He grapples with distrust, fear, and the overwhelming nature of the Old Ones' power. His resourcefulness and street smarts are assets, but he must overcome his isolation and learn to trust Matt and the Nexus organization.
How does the dynamic between Matt and Pedro evolve, given their different backgrounds and languages?
The dynamic between Matt and Pedro evolves from initial suspicion and communication barriers to a strong bond of trust and mutual respect. Despite their different backgrounds and languages, they learn to communicate through actions, shared experiences, and eventually, the help of interpreters and their growing psychic connection. Their differences ultimately complement each other, forming a powerful alliance.
How does the narrative explore themes of destiny versus free will through Matt and Pedro's journey?
The narrative explores destiny versus free will by presenting Matt and Pedro as 'chosen' Gatekeepers, yet emphasizing their personal choices and struggles. While their path is prophesied, their decisions to fight, to trust, and to sacrifice are entirely their own, demonstrating that destiny is not a rigid chain but a framework within which free will operates. They actively shape their fate.
What deeper message about global interconnectedness might 'Evil Star' be conveying through its plot?
'Evil Star' conveys a message about global interconnectedness by showing how a threat originating in one part of the world (England) quickly impacts another (Peru), and how individuals from vastly different cultures must unite to combat it. It emphasizes that global problems require global solutions and that humanity's fate is intertwined, regardless of borders or language.
How does the book's portrayal of ancient evil reflect modern anxieties or fears?
The book's portrayal of ancient evil reflects modern anxieties about hidden threats, unseen powers manipulating society, and the potential for environmental or societal collapse. The Old Ones represent a primal, overwhelming force that humanity struggles to comprehend or control, mirroring contemporary fears about climate change, pandemics, or global conflicts that feel beyond individual agency.
What is the symbolic significance of the Nazca Lines as a location for a Gate?
The Nazca Lines, with their enigmatic origins and massive scale, symbolically represent humanity's ancient connection to mysteries beyond our understanding. Their use as a Gate suggests that ancient civilizations may have possessed knowledge of the Old Ones or their power. It reinforces the idea that the threat is not new, but deeply embedded in Earth's history.
Does 'Evil Star' offer any commentary on social class or inequality through Pedro's character?
Yes, 'Evil Star' subtly comments on social class and inequality through Pedro's character. His harsh life on the streets of Peru highlights the struggles of poverty and the vulnerability of marginalized populations. His journey from an overlooked street kid to a hero underscores the idea that bravery and importance can emerge from any background, challenging societal prejudices.
How does the ending of 'Evil Star' set up the next book in the 'Power of Five' series?
The ending of 'Evil Star' leaves Matt and Pedro with a clearer understanding of their mission but also the daunting realization of the Old Ones' growing power. It typically involves a cliffhanger or a major revelation about the next Gatekeeper or the next location they must travel to, ensuring the reader is eager for the continuation of their epic struggle against the Old Ones.
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