It took him about eight years to research the series, which so far, has taken his characters to California and Paris. The third book takes Sophie and Josh to England, while Scott promises that Utah will "definitely maybe" figure into the storyline.

The twins' parents are on an archeological dig in the state.

"If I'm using any excuse to tour to Zion and Bryce Canyon, you know it's 'definitely,"' Scott said.

With each scene in his books, Scott traveled extensively to ensure the accuracy of his descriptions. His research also included looking into stories about each of the mythological characters he highlights.

For him, that research is part of the joy of his job. He's had a vast career outside of writing, including 25 years as a bookseller and also a stint as a television producer and a producer for "Riverdance." But as a writer, he's been able to travel the world and impact thousands of children and adults, particularly with this most recent series, which Scott said has "rewritten big chunks" of his future.

At present, he is focused on finishing the remaining four books in the "Nicholas Flamel" series and also doing research for his next few books. A movie version of "The Alchemist" is also planned for the near future.

Scott said he is hopeful his books will continue to be a success.

"Now what happens is the pressure," he said. "Book one was unexpected. There was no pressure. But then there were expectations for book two, so now, of course, because book two has gotten some extraordinary reviews, the pressure is really on for book three and four and five and six and whatever comes after that."

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E-mail: nwarburton@desnews.com