His next novel, Icefall, released in 2011, would make him critically acclaimed as it won the 2012 Edgar Award for Juvenile Fiction. In 2010, he released his debut novel, The Clockwork Three was named one of Publishers Weekly's 2010 Flying Starts. He would later go on to graduate from Utah State University with a bachelor's degree in history, and later returned to earn his master's degree in school psychology.

Kirby was inspired to become a writer after reading Ursula K. Due to this, he lived in various parts of the country, such as, Maryland, California, and Hawaii. I’m excited to see where this series goes.Kirby was born in Utah as the son of a naval officer. But it’s his love of adventure that really moves the story forward. His attention to detail makes the simulations come to life. He brings a mature writing style and strong pacing to what otherwise could become mass-produced spin-offs. Kirby (“Icefall,” “Clockwork Three”) is a fine writer. Under Monroe’s guidance, Owen and Javier join a group of other teens, entering a DNA memory they all share - the 1863 Draft Riots in New York City.Īs you might imagine, the possibilities are endless in a series like this. The only way to stay safe is to find the relic first. The Brotherhood of Assassins and the Templar Order both want that relic and are willing to stop at nothing to get it. While in the simulation, the two uncover the existence of a powerful relic. The problem - only the memories predating a person’s birth are available.ĭevastated, Owen grudgingly agrees to join his friend Javier in a shared memory between two of their ancestors. Monroe, the IT guy at school, has access to an Animus-a device that lets users explore genetic memories buried within their own DNA.

Owen’s father died in prison after being accused and convicted of a crime Owen is sure he didn’t commit. The main character in “Last Descendants” is Owen. The action within the book takes place concurrently in present day and the past. “Last Descendants” is the first book in a series that features a group of teens caught up in the centuries-old Assassin-Templar feud. Kirby’s book based on the franchise, “Last Descendants,” I decided to dive right in. I do know a little bit about books, though, so when I received Matthew J.

I’m not a fan of video games, so I have little knowledge of the video game franchise Assassin’s Creed.

Last Descendants by Matthew J. Kirby