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Spy School #11
Spy School Goes North
In the eleventh book in the New York Times bestselling Spy School series, Ben Ripley goes on a rescue mission when one of his own is abducted from a remote Alaskan training facility.
Ben Ripley and his friends are training in Alaska when Cyrus Hale is kidnapped by his old Russian nemesis. Ben, Erica, and the others mount a rescue mission, but events quickly spiral out of control in a plot involving the secret history of US-Russian relations, a young KGB agent with skills to rival Erica’s—and lots and lots of bears.
Ben Ripley and his friends are training in Alaska when Cyrus Hale is kidnapped by his old Russian nemesis. Ben, Erica, and the others mount a rescue mission, but events quickly spiral out of control in a plot involving the secret history of US-Russian relations, a young KGB agent with skills to rival Erica’s—and lots and lots of bears.
304 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2023
602 people are currently reading
4090 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 266 reviews
November 26, 2023
DNF - this was our favorite series as a family to listen to, but the girl/girl relationship was not what our family chooses to support. Also, Gibbs has gotten more and more agenda pushing through his books. It’s been super disappointing.
September 29, 2023
I won this book from a giveaway which I was super excited about, but after reading it…
Spy School Goes North really disappointed me.
The plot was fairly exciting, but it was basically identical to all the other spy school plots. Which makes sense, considering that this is the ELEVENTH book in the series. The only thing that was really different was the location being in Alaska, which was actually pretty interesting and one of the few redeeming factors. I feel like the best way for this series to stop being repetitive is to just make one final book and finish it up.
And for another thing, Mr. Gibbs is not the best at writing romantic relationships. Ben and Erica's relationship was barely talked about, which I somewhat understand because this is a middle grade book, but if you're not going to develop a relationship maybe just don't put it in at all. And I'm going to try not to give too many spoilers, but ahem, another relationship that developed in this book was pretty much love at first sight, and it seemed really unrealistic and unnecessary. Not to mention it was a gay relationship, which I do not like at all in middle grade books ESPECIALLY when it's one of the children/teens themselves. Disagree with me all you want, but it was just ridiculous. It would have been bad even as a normal guy and girl relationship.
Also, I'm getting really tired of Murray Hill, (yes he's in this book YET AGAIN lol) though that might be a testament to the author's writing skills. He sure can write an annoying character.
Overall, I feel like this author's books have been deteriorating now for a few years. Yes, there have been some good books, like the Once Upon A Tim series (which I love), and the third Charlie Thorne book. But the last two Funjungle books, Spy School book, and now this one have all honestly just been really bad.
In spite of all this, I'm sure there will still be tons of Spy School fans raving over this book, but it was definitely not for me and others I know.
I hope this series gets better, but I'm not holding my breath.
Also a special thanks to Amy for reading this book and writing another review with me
Spy School Goes North really disappointed me.
The plot was fairly exciting, but it was basically identical to all the other spy school plots. Which makes sense, considering that this is the ELEVENTH book in the series. The only thing that was really different was the location being in Alaska, which was actually pretty interesting and one of the few redeeming factors. I feel like the best way for this series to stop being repetitive is to just make one final book and finish it up.
And for another thing, Mr. Gibbs is not the best at writing romantic relationships. Ben and Erica's relationship was barely talked about, which I somewhat understand because this is a middle grade book, but if you're not going to develop a relationship maybe just don't put it in at all. And I'm going to try not to give too many spoilers, but ahem, another relationship that developed in this book was pretty much love at first sight, and it seemed really unrealistic and unnecessary. Not to mention it was a gay relationship, which I do not like at all in middle grade books ESPECIALLY when it's one of the children/teens themselves. Disagree with me all you want, but it was just ridiculous. It would have been bad even as a normal guy and girl relationship.
Also, I'm getting really tired of Murray Hill, (yes he's in this book YET AGAIN lol) though that might be a testament to the author's writing skills. He sure can write an annoying character.
Overall, I feel like this author's books have been deteriorating now for a few years. Yes, there have been some good books, like the Once Upon A Tim series (which I love), and the third Charlie Thorne book. But the last two Funjungle books, Spy School book, and now this one have all honestly just been really bad.
In spite of all this, I'm sure there will still be tons of Spy School fans raving over this book, but it was definitely not for me and others I know.
I hope this series gets better, but I'm not holding my breath.
Also a special thanks to Amy for reading this book and writing another review with me
January 20, 2024
To the people who hate this book because of Zoe:
I genuinely don’t see the problem with Zoe and Svetlana. You guys are just mad because your ‘DeAr ChIlD iS bEiNg SpOiLeD WiTh gAy AgEnDA!!!!” Literally just shut up. It’s not like one book is going to make your child a raging queer, relax, JESUS. You guys are just focused on the fact that one character mind you, ONE character is queer. We should all be focused on how the SECOND BEST CHARACTER IN THE FREAKING SERIES (Jawa O’Shea) WASN’T IN THE FREAKING BOOK? Literally EVERYTHING ELSE in the book was amazing except for the fact Jawa wasn’t there. I personally will be buying the graphic novels and SS12 when it comes out. Mind you, this is being written by a kid who reads this, and the only kids who are actually disturbed by the lesbian relationship here are your 12 year old sons who are homophobic. Also, just a pointer (what I call ‘pointing out’ things) , when Ben and Erica got together you guys were jumping with joy, but the second Stuart decides to make Zoe a lesbian suddenly all relationships are SO horrible. If you’re mad about Zoe, genuinely, grow up and realize it’s not that big of a deal.
Edit: I also realized that without Svetlana switching sides, everyone would’ve died at the end since she saved their lives. So people who didn’t like the girl x girl relationship, which end would you rather have?
I genuinely don’t see the problem with Zoe and Svetlana. You guys are just mad because your ‘DeAr ChIlD iS bEiNg SpOiLeD WiTh gAy AgEnDA!!!!” Literally just shut up. It’s not like one book is going to make your child a raging queer, relax, JESUS. You guys are just focused on the fact that one character mind you, ONE character is queer. We should all be focused on how the SECOND BEST CHARACTER IN THE FREAKING SERIES (Jawa O’Shea) WASN’T IN THE FREAKING BOOK? Literally EVERYTHING ELSE in the book was amazing except for the fact Jawa wasn’t there. I personally will be buying the graphic novels and SS12 when it comes out. Mind you, this is being written by a kid who reads this, and the only kids who are actually disturbed by the lesbian relationship here are your 12 year old sons who are homophobic. Also, just a pointer (what I call ‘pointing out’ things) , when Ben and Erica got together you guys were jumping with joy, but the second Stuart decides to make Zoe a lesbian suddenly all relationships are SO horrible. If you’re mad about Zoe, genuinely, grow up and realize it’s not that big of a deal.
Edit: I also realized that without Svetlana switching sides, everyone would’ve died at the end since she saved their lives. So people who didn’t like the girl x girl relationship, which end would you rather have?
November 14, 2023
DNFed at 60% due to content.
(Seriously?! Like, seriously. Why do you have to go and ruin a perfectly good book.)
(Seriously?! Like, seriously. Why do you have to go and ruin a perfectly good book.)
October 30, 2023
This book was awful. I really debated on whether I should bother writing a review. I feel at the very least, I will avoid all the reasons I think it was terrible, and just say it’s bad. My kids and I have listened to all 3 Moon Base Alpha, all 8 Fun Jungle and now all 11 Spy School. Spy School was my kids’ favorite series of those. But this one has ended the series for us, whether or not it’s the last book.
As a heads up to parents, there is a same-sex relationship between one of the students and a new character, that is introduced about halfway through the book. Personally, I would have liked to have known that going into it!
As a heads up to parents, there is a same-sex relationship between one of the students and a new character, that is introduced about halfway through the book. Personally, I would have liked to have known that going into it!
July 25, 2025
A formulaic Spy School novel
In my review of the previous Spy School book, Spy School Project X, I wrote
It was not to be. Spy School Goes North returns to the tried and true Spy School formula. Now, although I, personally, was disappointed, a return to form is not necessarily a bad thing. It is, after all, a successful formula. Spy School has an army of devoted followers (I am one -- I have read every one of the books) and new releases regularly rack up 4.8-star average ratings on Amazon. If you have read Project X and the previous novels, you know how you feel about this.
Goes North takes place in Alaska (which is indeed a spectacular setting for a spy story). We also get some new characters and relationships. As the publisher's blurb tells us, we meet Cyrus Hale's old Russian nemesis, and also "a young KGB agent with skills to rival Erica’s". The latter new character is a great addition to the cast, and I look forward to seeing more of her in future novels. There's also a running gag about Ben and Cyrus's Russian language skills, which is pretty funny.
I thank NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Canada for an advance reader copy of Spy School Goes North. This review expresses my honest opinion. Release date 3-Oct-2023.
Blog review.
In my review of the previous Spy School book, Spy School Project X, I wrote
Spy School novels have a formula. We have Ben Ripley, a gifted kid who achieves excellent results by not being stupid, Ben's friends who are well-intentioned and sometimes competent, and the ever-expanding dysfunctional Hale family made up of the World's worst spies, who believe themselves to be the World's best spies, including toothsome teen sisters Erica and Trixie Hale. Gibbs picks a setting (frequently this is the site of a vacation or a sight-seeing visit he made), then makes up a silly James Bond-esque plot to play out there, with jokes! The main questions one asks on picking up a new Spy School book are "Where will it happen?" and "How will character relationships change?"I described all that in order to say that Project X broke the formula. And it was great! I expressed the hope that "The Spy School novels will never be the same again."
It was not to be. Spy School Goes North returns to the tried and true Spy School formula. Now, although I, personally, was disappointed, a return to form is not necessarily a bad thing. It is, after all, a successful formula. Spy School has an army of devoted followers (I am one -- I have read every one of the books) and new releases regularly rack up 4.8-star average ratings on Amazon. If you have read Project X and the previous novels, you know how you feel about this.
Goes North takes place in Alaska (which is indeed a spectacular setting for a spy story). We also get some new characters and relationships. As the publisher's blurb tells us, we meet Cyrus Hale's old Russian nemesis, and also "a young KGB agent with skills to rival Erica’s". The latter new character is a great addition to the cast, and I look forward to seeing more of her in future novels. There's also a running gag about Ben and Cyrus's Russian language skills, which is pretty funny.
I thank NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Canada for an advance reader copy of Spy School Goes North. This review expresses my honest opinion. Release date 3-Oct-2023.
Blog review.
October 10, 2023
i literally almost cried happy tears when i got this book. the spy school series was, is and forever will be my childhood series. i love everything about it ❤️ (i know that's biased since i'm emotionally attached to it but whatever lol)
December 14, 2024
DNF
This is what I hate about modern kids and teen writers. They make their books about something appealing, and then late in the novel or series they throw woke politics in it.
A letter to Stuart Gibbs:
Mr. Gibbs,
You were such a great author! You gave me happiness and entertainment when I first picked up your books; with funny characters like Ben or Murray, what was not to love? But ever since “Spy School Goes South” you have been putting woke garbage into all your books. This time, when my brother asked for a book recommendation I couldn’t say “the newest spy school” or even any of your new books.
Regards,
-A, a former fan
This is what I hate about modern kids and teen writers. They make their books about something appealing, and then late in the novel or series they throw woke politics in it.
A letter to Stuart Gibbs:
Mr. Gibbs,
You were such a great author! You gave me happiness and entertainment when I first picked up your books; with funny characters like Ben or Murray, what was not to love? But ever since “Spy School Goes South” you have been putting woke garbage into all your books. This time, when my brother asked for a book recommendation I couldn’t say “the newest spy school” or even any of your new books.
Regards,
-A, a former fan
October 17, 2023
top 10 literary works of the 21st century
October 7, 2023
the love at first sight was too much for me 😭
October 21, 2023
What happened to the old spy school stories?
March 12, 2025
Ugh. Where to begin? Seriously the whole “Zoe is suddenly bi!” Thing was really unnecessary. This series has kinda gotten old. And I’ve been a fan since like 4th grade. No disrespect or anger on Stuart Gibbs. But I feel like it’s just time to end this series. It’s just a money maker now. And it’s kinda sad honestly. End it good Gibbs! End it epic! Don’t make people WANT you to end it. Make your readers feel satisfied with your ending not “FINALLY it’s about time.” Not hating on Gibbs of course. But I’m REALLY getting tired of Murray. REALLY done with him. Like either kill him or put him in some bunker with bacon and chocolate because he has got to go. Also the love at fist sight thing was really far fetched and just ridiculous. JUST END IT PLEASE!!
July 9, 2024
as usual, great book. i love that there’s some lgbtq rep and zoe and svetlana seem so cute together! as with the last one, this book tackled sone more serious issues like russia and generational trauma of svetlana and erica from their grandparents raising them as spies from such a young age. i think gibbs does a really nice job talking about these topics at a younger level for his main audience.
June 14, 2024
This series was phenomenal up to Spy School at Sea. Once that book hit, it started to fall downwards, and this book just hit an all-time low. From a stale plot to lack or mystery and adventure to an LQBT relationship, I just found this book as a waste of time. I’m not having much hope for the series anymore. Just read books 1-8 and you’ll be good.
November 6, 2023
Cyrus voted for trump fs
I didn’t like the love at first sight thing that much bc it was so extreme and kinda unrealistic, but some of the reviews in here are just straight up homophobic
I didn’t like the love at first sight thing that much bc it was so extreme and kinda unrealistic, but some of the reviews in here are just straight up homophobic
January 1, 2024
I'm honestly disappointed ☹️, Stuart Gibbs decided to make one of my favorite character gay. I like the story, but seriously, he didn't have to do that. The book is just an attempt to stuff a load of bad agenda down young children's throats. Yep, the world's crazy.
October 4, 2023
Its only because Erica and Ben only kissed on the cheek and I don't ship Zoe with her new girlfriend.
May 31, 2023
eARC Provided by Edelweiss
Spy School Goes North is an exhilarating journey taking Ben Ripley on a thrilling adventure through Alaska and beyond. In this action-packed installment of the Spy School series, Ben finds himself facing formidable adversaries, navigating treacherous waters both literally and metaphorically.
As the story unfolds, Ben's mission takes him across the vast landscapes of Alaska, where danger lurks in every corner. From glaciers to ice floes, he must unravel clues that lead to a sinister plot planned by Cyrus Hale's nemesis. To accomplish this, Ben confronts his enemies head-on, braving perilous encounters aboard various vehicles. These high-stakes situations keep readers on the edge of their seats, wondering how Ben will outsmart his foes and save the world once more.
The plot is a major highlight, with thrilling sequences and clever surprises. While the pacing may feel rushed compared to Gibbs' previous works, the attention to detail and overall cohesiveness make for an enjoyable read. The unexpected turns and unique twists in the plot differentiate this book from previous Spy School novels, adding an exciting element to the story.
Character development in this novel is particularly enjoyable, especially with the character of Cyrus. As Cyrus grapples with the challenges of aging, his pride begins to cloud his judgement, causing the mission to veer off course. Additionally, returning characters are well-written, adding depth and complexity to the story.
Set in Alaska, the book's location stands out in the Spy School series, making the location my favorite among all the other books. The vivid portrayal of Alaska's environment enhances the reading experience and serves as a stunning backdrop for thrilling aquatic action sequences.
Action and suspense are seen. throughout the book, featuring high-speed projectiles and encounters with a giant Russian vessel. These well-written action sequences are packed with excitement, immersing readers in the thrilling world of espionage.
The prevalent theme of climate change and environmental care is skillfully written into the narrative, delivering an important and resonant message. It serves as a significant motivator for the characters, propelling them to undertake daunting and difficult tasks.
Gibbs' writing style is commendable—well-written, easily understandable, and filled with the right amount of detail to enhance the reading experience.
There were a few drawbacks to the novel. First, its length felt shorter compared to other Spy School books, which was a bit bothersome. Second, the plot felt much more rushed and less in-depth than the previous book. Third, the new characters were written poorly and lacked detail. Some of their actions were so random and did not fit the plot at all. Lastly, I wished there was more action. There were fewer action sequences than in the previous novels, making the plot more boring.
This book does not make it into my top 5 Spy School books; however, it is not a bad book. I hope that future books will be longer, more detailed, and more realistic.
Overall, Spy School Goes North is a thrilling and engaging book. With its well-crafted plot, dynamic characters, breathtaking action, and exploration of important themes, it is a must-read for fans of action-packed novels.
Spy School Goes North is an exhilarating journey taking Ben Ripley on a thrilling adventure through Alaska and beyond. In this action-packed installment of the Spy School series, Ben finds himself facing formidable adversaries, navigating treacherous waters both literally and metaphorically.
As the story unfolds, Ben's mission takes him across the vast landscapes of Alaska, where danger lurks in every corner. From glaciers to ice floes, he must unravel clues that lead to a sinister plot planned by Cyrus Hale's nemesis. To accomplish this, Ben confronts his enemies head-on, braving perilous encounters aboard various vehicles. These high-stakes situations keep readers on the edge of their seats, wondering how Ben will outsmart his foes and save the world once more.
The plot is a major highlight, with thrilling sequences and clever surprises. While the pacing may feel rushed compared to Gibbs' previous works, the attention to detail and overall cohesiveness make for an enjoyable read. The unexpected turns and unique twists in the plot differentiate this book from previous Spy School novels, adding an exciting element to the story.
Character development in this novel is particularly enjoyable, especially with the character of Cyrus. As Cyrus grapples with the challenges of aging, his pride begins to cloud his judgement, causing the mission to veer off course. Additionally, returning characters are well-written, adding depth and complexity to the story.
Set in Alaska, the book's location stands out in the Spy School series, making the location my favorite among all the other books. The vivid portrayal of Alaska's environment enhances the reading experience and serves as a stunning backdrop for thrilling aquatic action sequences.
Action and suspense are seen. throughout the book, featuring high-speed projectiles and encounters with a giant Russian vessel. These well-written action sequences are packed with excitement, immersing readers in the thrilling world of espionage.
The prevalent theme of climate change and environmental care is skillfully written into the narrative, delivering an important and resonant message. It serves as a significant motivator for the characters, propelling them to undertake daunting and difficult tasks.
Gibbs' writing style is commendable—well-written, easily understandable, and filled with the right amount of detail to enhance the reading experience.
There were a few drawbacks to the novel. First, its length felt shorter compared to other Spy School books, which was a bit bothersome. Second, the plot felt much more rushed and less in-depth than the previous book. Third, the new characters were written poorly and lacked detail. Some of their actions were so random and did not fit the plot at all. Lastly, I wished there was more action. There were fewer action sequences than in the previous novels, making the plot more boring.
This book does not make it into my top 5 Spy School books; however, it is not a bad book. I hope that future books will be longer, more detailed, and more realistic.
Overall, Spy School Goes North is a thrilling and engaging book. With its well-crafted plot, dynamic characters, breathtaking action, and exploration of important themes, it is a must-read for fans of action-packed novels.
February 29, 2024
I’ve always loved reading spy school novels. I used to wait until every one came out, then get it from the library as soon as possible. Until this book. Stuart Gibbs ruined the story with this book. It feels hastily put together, and lacks the quality and excitement of his other books. It also seems like he just wrote it for LGBTQ content. A lot of the book is focused on a a cheesy, gay romance that is unrealistic and derails the plot of the story. The plot is easily predictable because of it, and it’s just not exiting. Would I recommend reading this? No. This book was a waste of time. I’d just read a summary of it and wait until the next book comes out and hope it isn’t as bad as this one. Also, I’m not just saying this because I’m a hater of Stuart Gibbs. Stuart Gibbs is one of my favorite authors, and I love all of his books except for this one.
April 3, 2024
If I’m being honest I only read this book cause I wanted a quick read and I’ve already read 10 others.
It was a good book, not his best work and one of the worst in the series for sure. There wasn’t much deducing in this, and Ben was much more of a “spy” in this. Of course Murray Hill was there again, and it’s starting to get really repetitive. Little progression with Erica and Ben even thought it’s been now 11 books. And the whole plot was stupid.
The evil girl changes sides because she had a moment with a USA girl? And now backstabs hee grandfather who’s cared for her for like 15-16 years? Yeah stupid baloney.
Wasn’t even that many good jokes or twists, there were no twists.
Overall a very disappointing book of his, wasn’t expecting something amazing but this was worse than I expected.
It was a good book, not his best work and one of the worst in the series for sure. There wasn’t much deducing in this, and Ben was much more of a “spy” in this. Of course Murray Hill was there again, and it’s starting to get really repetitive. Little progression with Erica and Ben even thought it’s been now 11 books. And the whole plot was stupid.
The evil girl changes sides because she had a moment with a USA girl? And now backstabs hee grandfather who’s cared for her for like 15-16 years? Yeah stupid baloney.
Wasn’t even that many good jokes or twists, there were no twists.
Overall a very disappointing book of his, wasn’t expecting something amazing but this was worse than I expected.
February 20, 2024
I just wanted to say that I love that Stuart Gibbs put a gay character in this book. I heard that people stopped reading this amazing book after finding out that Zoe is gay. Nobody should feel ashamed or criticized about being gay.
December 8, 2023
This was my first time reading a Spy School book. I found it to be full of adventures as well as a little history and geography which I found to be very fun. I think that Middle Grade readers will get a kick out of reading about spy kids who help save earth seemingly every few months or so.
October 31, 2023
Personally, I didn't like Svetlana and her lesbian relationship with Zoe. The mystery also wasn't as great this time, but there were a few funny parts. I also didn't like how Cyrus was... well, horrible in this book.
October 6, 2023
It’s super NOT cool what happens to Zoe. I definitely don’t agree with it, but other than that, it was decent.
November 5, 2023
Used to love this series. Disappointed by the agendas pushed. This book is geared towards little kids. seriously!!
November 10, 2023
Stuart Gibbs clearly has personal opinions about a few political topics and his effort to fit them into this book seem forced. Otherwise, I love Ben and his adventures.
November 11, 2023
A little to"woke" for a YA book.
December 4, 2023
I was very eagerly waiting for this book to come out after devoured the first 10 books. But I moved on to Stuart Gibb's other series (and only have 7 more books to finish everything might I add) so I forgot this one was released. Needless to say, I wasn't disappointed!
Spy school had been dissolved before this installment but Ben, Erica, Zoe and Mike are still being trained by Cyrus in Alaska. Russians came over. Plot ensues. I'm here for a good time, not for a legendary and spectacular literature moment of the centuryTM so I really enjoyed the ride. Also, finally a queer character in the spy school series. The author is NOT good at writing romance for teenagers but also teenagers are BAD at romance so I am fine with it. Anyway, I'm happy to be here and will continue supporting gleefully. Highlights include but are not limited to: swearing, all those very unsubtle hints towards the non child-friendly stuff (like what bears are famous for doing in the woods), sapphic teenagers
Fun fact: Yes, children can be queer. I knew I wasn't straight when I was 12. Also, people will literally see 6 month old babies of different sex and say insane things like "Awww look at them! They're each other's future boyfriend and girlfriend" but a teenager deciding who and which gender they like will make the same people gasp and grasp at straws to attempt to explain why it shouldn't be like that.
Also homophobes' reviews here are like "I will NOT be supporting you anymore!1!!! You've ruined it!!1!" like omg! Whatever shall we do if owners of these fake profiles that only have this one review on the whole website won't continue supporting a very well-known and successful children's book author with such a huge range!? Woe is me. I'm soooooo sad.
Okay, enough attention for y'all. I'm gonna go back to the Last Musketeer series and also get Spy Camp the Graphic novel.
Spy school had been dissolved before this installment but Ben, Erica, Zoe and Mike are still being trained by Cyrus in Alaska. Russians came over. Plot ensues. I'm here for a good time, not for a legendary and spectacular literature moment of the centuryTM so I really enjoyed the ride. Also, finally a queer character in the spy school series. The author is NOT good at writing romance for teenagers but also teenagers are BAD at romance so I am fine with it. Anyway, I'm happy to be here and will continue supporting gleefully. Highlights include but are not limited to: swearing, all those very unsubtle hints towards the non child-friendly stuff (like what bears are famous for doing in the woods), sapphic teenagers
Fun fact: Yes, children can be queer. I knew I wasn't straight when I was 12. Also, people will literally see 6 month old babies of different sex and say insane things like "Awww look at them! They're each other's future boyfriend and girlfriend" but a teenager deciding who and which gender they like will make the same people gasp and grasp at straws to attempt to explain why it shouldn't be like that.
Also homophobes' reviews here are like "I will NOT be supporting you anymore!1!!! You've ruined it!!1!" like omg! Whatever shall we do if owners of these fake profiles that only have this one review on the whole website won't continue supporting a very well-known and successful children's book author with such a huge range!? Woe is me. I'm soooooo sad.
Okay, enough attention for y'all. I'm gonna go back to the Last Musketeer series and also get Spy Camp the Graphic novel.
October 8, 2023
this one moved a bit slower than some of the other ones, but it was still fun and silly. i liked that zoe was given a new plotline and i found hers to be interesting (though i do think it's a bit ridiculous for a 14 year old to be stressing over not having a romantic partner, i can relate to the feeling of feeling like all your friends have one and you don't. also it's a bit funny that she just falls for the first person their age she encounters like it's a bit iconic). the action drama was fun, helicopters were fun to read about idk LOL
i also like how ben and erica's relationship isn't super mushy because it would feel extremely out of character for erica. their mutual respect for each other and how she's genuinely excited for him and defends his value as a team member is cute and i just really love their relationship. i also really liked how ben realizes he's become a lot more competent and just didn't realize because he was always comparing himself to everyone else (who had a head start on him and were always progressing, so he always felt behind.) it was a really cool character moment when he realized he was able to knock out his first bad guy! like yeah dude, it only took 11 books, but i'm so happy for you! i really only read these books because i love erica and her family drama with cyrus at the end chef's kiss no notes i love it
tl;dr: i <3 erica hale
January 8, 2024
I’ve loved this series up until this book, but this one was severely disappointing. After waiting a year after the cliffhanger, this was not what I was hoping for.
First of all, Zoe is not a lesbian. She has been in love with Ben forever. It simply doesn’t make sense that she would suddenly fall in love with a girl. Also, the love at first sight thing with their relationship was unrealistic.
Secondly, what was going on with Cyrus? He just wasn’t himself in this book. He normally trust Erica with everything, but suddenly he decides she’s just a kid and can’t be trusted?
Third of all, Ben and Erica didn’t seem very together in this book. In the last book, Erica was all about him, but now she seems kind of indifferent.
A lot of things in this book were contrary to every book before it. I’m not sure I will continue reading this series if Gibbs is going to suddenly change everything about characters that have been the same since book one and shove political stuff into books made for kids.
First of all, Zoe is not a lesbian. She has been in love with Ben forever. It simply doesn’t make sense that she would suddenly fall in love with a girl. Also, the love at first sight thing with their relationship was unrealistic.
Secondly, what was going on with Cyrus? He just wasn’t himself in this book. He normally trust Erica with everything, but suddenly he decides she’s just a kid and can’t be trusted?
Third of all, Ben and Erica didn’t seem very together in this book. In the last book, Erica was all about him, but now she seems kind of indifferent.
A lot of things in this book were contrary to every book before it. I’m not sure I will continue reading this series if Gibbs is going to suddenly change everything about characters that have been the same since book one and shove political stuff into books made for kids.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 266 reviews