More than a year has passed since Joseph Erift and his best friend Eric Castis were lured into their first real life adventure. However, they must set all plans for college aside when Professor Benjamin Thessit, the same enthusiastic researcher who revealed to them the existence of real magic, contacts them again. The mysterious moaning shadows that chase them to the airport quickly become the least of their concerns. Shortly after they arrive on The Murean Islands, the SIA, a worldwide organization monitoring their every move, threatens to shut down Professor Ben's research before he can uncover answers to their dilemma. An old enemy returns, yet his appearance is overshadowed by a pair of mysterious entities that seek an ancient passage home. Even with the help of friends both new and old, Joseph worries Eric's attempt at online stardom will only record their tumble down a more ominous path. "The Dark Messengers" picks up a year and a half since Secrets of The Sealed Forest unfolded. Joseph and Eric have held off on their college plans at the urging of Professor Benjamin Thessit. While Eric is thrilled at the idea for another adventure, Joseph is more worried than anything. The second book in Erift's Journeys continues to deal with themes of growing into an adult and self-discovery as characters seek to discover who they truly wish to be. The second book in this fantasy adventure series is recommended for ages 10+