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The A&A Detective Agency #1
The Fairfleet Affair
Follow clues, solve puzzles, crack the code... find the missing millionaire.
The celebrated museums of the Fairfleet Institute are known for curating the mysteries of humanity. But they don’t solve mysteries. Luckily, twelve-year-old friends Alex Foster and Asha Singh of the A&A Detective Agency do. Or they will . . . once they get a real case to test their skills as sleuths.
When Dr. Alistair Fairfleet, the institute’s eccentric chairman, disappears on the first day of Alex and Asha’s summer vacation, they receive a letter written by the missing millionaire himself inviting them to a game involving complicated clues and puzzles. It is just the sort of case they’ve been waiting to tackle. But nothing in the Fairfleet case has a simple solution. As the kids track down clues, they uncover art forgeries, archaeological crimes, and Fairfleet family secrets. All of this tests their partnership and forces them to confront the complicated legacies of the people and places they admire most.
The celebrated museums of the Fairfleet Institute are known for curating the mysteries of humanity. But they don’t solve mysteries. Luckily, twelve-year-old friends Alex Foster and Asha Singh of the A&A Detective Agency do. Or they will . . . once they get a real case to test their skills as sleuths.
When Dr. Alistair Fairfleet, the institute’s eccentric chairman, disappears on the first day of Alex and Asha’s summer vacation, they receive a letter written by the missing millionaire himself inviting them to a game involving complicated clues and puzzles. It is just the sort of case they’ve been waiting to tackle. But nothing in the Fairfleet case has a simple solution. As the kids track down clues, they uncover art forgeries, archaeological crimes, and Fairfleet family secrets. All of this tests their partnership and forces them to confront the complicated legacies of the people and places they admire most.
272 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2023
6 people are currently reading
307 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
September 21, 2023
4.3 Stars
One Liner: Aww… adorable (but a little slow-paced)
Dr. Alistair Fairfleet, the eccentric chairman of the museums of the Fairfleet Institute, has disappeared without a sign. Everyone is worried about him. Fifteen days later, four people associated with the museums get letters from him. The fifth letter goes to the A&A Detective Agency run by Alex and Asha, two smart twelve-year-olds.
Dr. Alistair invites all of them to use his clues and uncover the mystery behind his disappearance. The young detectives are eager to prove themselves. They solve puzzles and riddles dealing with art and archeology. But can they reach Dr. Alistair on time, or are they too young to handle the unseen risks?
The story comes in the omnipresent third-person POV.
My Thoughts:
Who can resist a good detective mystery with two young detectives? Not me, for sure! This book has Asha Singh and Alex Foster running the A&A Detective Agency in Alex’s tree house. The kids are smart, intelligent, witty, and super cute. They do have ‘professional disagreements’ but learn to work through their differences.
The kids have different personalities, highlighted in many scenes. Asha is particular about rules (though she understands some rules should be flexible when you are a detective). Alex is a rule-breaker with a flair for dramatics and a little guy who does like to give in to his emotions (he sure doesn’t like his favorite people being on the suspect list). This makes them real and easy to relate to.
It’s been a long time since I read a book in the third-person omnipresent POV. This brings the narrator's voice into the picture and elevates the book. The voice is cheeky, witty, and has a touch of light humor. I chuckled quite a few times when reading the book. The pacing is slow, though.
The mystery combines brainy puzzles and some action. I like how the investigation doesn’t put the kids at risk (except in one instance, which is more of an architectural problem). There’s no ‘bad guy’ either, so the children are safe biking around in their small town. Since the story is set during the summer holidays, they don’t miss school.
Despite being middle-grade fiction, the adults in the book are quite good. Though they aren’t elaborate, we know enough of them to understand their character arcs. And every adult is distinct, bringing a nice flavor to the plot.
There’s a cat, Captain Nemo, who sadly doesn’t get much space except in a couple of scenes. We also see an old doggie, Don Quixote (aka Donkey), who belongs to Alex’s family. Even the parents are pretty much absent. While they are mentioned, none of them have an actual dialogue.
The book is set in Northbrook and has the feel of a larger small town. There isn’t much to visualize the location but the campus, museums, etc., are easy to imagine.
My favorite part is the acknowledgment that the ‘artifacts’ in the museums have dubious backgrounds and the ethical dilemma it brings. It’s no secret that many pieces from other cultures have either been stolen or forcefully taken from their lands to be displayed in the US, UK, and European museums. To see a children’s book deal with this topic makes me happy. Kids need to understand that the cultural heritage belonging to other lands is not for entertainment in foreign museums. Our gods are not to be kept in glass boxes. They belong to our lands and our people. They belong to us.
Recently, the New York Metropolitan Museum agreed to return 15 idols belonging to India. Over the last few years, we have received about 150 ancient artifacts that should have never left our land. We are to get back the weapon (Wagh Nakh) that belonged to Shivaji Maharaj . As expected, it was displayed at the Victoria and Albert Museum in the UK.
The Cambodian idols are also still in the US museums, denying people to worship their gods the way they should be. A couple of months ago, Sophiline Cheam-Shapiro wrote about her experience at The Met where she was asked to leave for performing the Cambodian traditional dance of prayer with permission.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3blxD...
To summarize, The Fairfleet Affair is a witty and smart detective mystery with two intelligent kids working together and independently to solve their special case. Both our detectives get equal importance and prove themselves. This book is standalone from what I know but would be a wonderful short series.
Thank you, NetGalley and Union Square Kids (a subsidiary of Sterling Publishing), for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley
***
The cover is cute enough and details the agency’s office. However, it doesn’t exactly catch the eye. I zeroed in on the book based on the title and genre. The blurb (and Asha) was my reason for requesting the book. I wouldn’t say no to a brighter cover.
One Liner: Aww… adorable (but a little slow-paced)
Dr. Alistair Fairfleet, the eccentric chairman of the museums of the Fairfleet Institute, has disappeared without a sign. Everyone is worried about him. Fifteen days later, four people associated with the museums get letters from him. The fifth letter goes to the A&A Detective Agency run by Alex and Asha, two smart twelve-year-olds.
Dr. Alistair invites all of them to use his clues and uncover the mystery behind his disappearance. The young detectives are eager to prove themselves. They solve puzzles and riddles dealing with art and archeology. But can they reach Dr. Alistair on time, or are they too young to handle the unseen risks?
The story comes in the omnipresent third-person POV.
My Thoughts:
Who can resist a good detective mystery with two young detectives? Not me, for sure! This book has Asha Singh and Alex Foster running the A&A Detective Agency in Alex’s tree house. The kids are smart, intelligent, witty, and super cute. They do have ‘professional disagreements’ but learn to work through their differences.
The kids have different personalities, highlighted in many scenes. Asha is particular about rules (though she understands some rules should be flexible when you are a detective). Alex is a rule-breaker with a flair for dramatics and a little guy who does like to give in to his emotions (he sure doesn’t like his favorite people being on the suspect list). This makes them real and easy to relate to.
It’s been a long time since I read a book in the third-person omnipresent POV. This brings the narrator's voice into the picture and elevates the book. The voice is cheeky, witty, and has a touch of light humor. I chuckled quite a few times when reading the book. The pacing is slow, though.
The mystery combines brainy puzzles and some action. I like how the investigation doesn’t put the kids at risk (except in one instance, which is more of an architectural problem). There’s no ‘bad guy’ either, so the children are safe biking around in their small town. Since the story is set during the summer holidays, they don’t miss school.
Despite being middle-grade fiction, the adults in the book are quite good. Though they aren’t elaborate, we know enough of them to understand their character arcs. And every adult is distinct, bringing a nice flavor to the plot.
There’s a cat, Captain Nemo, who sadly doesn’t get much space except in a couple of scenes. We also see an old doggie, Don Quixote (aka Donkey), who belongs to Alex’s family. Even the parents are pretty much absent. While they are mentioned, none of them have an actual dialogue.
The book is set in Northbrook and has the feel of a larger small town. There isn’t much to visualize the location but the campus, museums, etc., are easy to imagine.
My favorite part is the acknowledgment that the ‘artifacts’ in the museums have dubious backgrounds and the ethical dilemma it brings. It’s no secret that many pieces from other cultures have either been stolen or forcefully taken from their lands to be displayed in the US, UK, and European museums. To see a children’s book deal with this topic makes me happy. Kids need to understand that the cultural heritage belonging to other lands is not for entertainment in foreign museums. Our gods are not to be kept in glass boxes. They belong to our lands and our people. They belong to us.
Recently, the New York Metropolitan Museum agreed to return 15 idols belonging to India. Over the last few years, we have received about 150 ancient artifacts that should have never left our land. We are to get back the weapon (Wagh Nakh) that belonged to Shivaji Maharaj . As expected, it was displayed at the Victoria and Albert Museum in the UK.
The Cambodian idols are also still in the US museums, denying people to worship their gods the way they should be. A couple of months ago, Sophiline Cheam-Shapiro wrote about her experience at The Met where she was asked to leave for performing the Cambodian traditional dance of prayer with permission.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3blxD...
To summarize, The Fairfleet Affair is a witty and smart detective mystery with two intelligent kids working together and independently to solve their special case. Both our detectives get equal importance and prove themselves. This book is standalone from what I know but would be a wonderful short series.
Thank you, NetGalley and Union Square Kids (a subsidiary of Sterling Publishing), for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley
***
The cover is cute enough and details the agency’s office. However, it doesn’t exactly catch the eye. I zeroed in on the book based on the title and genre. The blurb (and Asha) was my reason for requesting the book. I wouldn’t say no to a brighter cover.
March 28, 2024
This book was SOOO good! I can usually figure out middle grade/YA mysteries but I was kept in the dark until the characters revealed the twists, and MAN was it entertaining!!
And this - THIS - is a cozy story! No murder (murder is NOT cozy!!), a limited cast of characters, one idyllic town, and a tree house for gosh sakes! This is the perfect summer read - I will probably re-read this in the summer, and I will definitely be looking for the next books in this series (I hope its a series!)
Perfect for kiddos - we are featuring it in our middle grade book club! Can't recommend it enough!
And this - THIS - is a cozy story! No murder (murder is NOT cozy!!), a limited cast of characters, one idyllic town, and a tree house for gosh sakes! This is the perfect summer read - I will probably re-read this in the summer, and I will definitely be looking for the next books in this series (I hope its a series!)
Perfect for kiddos - we are featuring it in our middle grade book club! Can't recommend it enough!
December 26, 2025
had a blast. a little (generous) derivative of the westing game and then the characters started talking about it in text and i was like kh saxton what are we. got pretty full blast into the idea of the ethics of international museum acquisitions in a way i wasn't expecting in like middle grade detective fiction but i'm not opposed.
March 31, 2024
This book is so adorable! I love all the characters, Asha and Alex are amazing! I wish I could be them! Overall a great story. Some parts seemed to be that the author was just expecting us to know what had happened previously without giving background on the event they were referencing. Almost like they wrote a 5 page long character development page on everyone and didn’t put all the details in the book. Instead, just randomly referencing a funny detail they had written about something that had happened previously to the character but not telling us the whole story. A little slow paced at some parts made it hard to follow what was happening. With events that weren’t necessarily needed for the story as a whole. Overall a great book for middle aged readers and so adorable! I love a good mystery and this is definitely one!
September 17, 2023
A fun middle grade puzzle mystery. Kids will enjoy the twists and turns that Alex and Asha face as they try to figure out what happened to Dr. Alistair Fairfleet. Saxton managed a difficult task, creating a book that's fun to read but that still deals with some difficult issues. I specifically loved the book because although it is set in the US, Jordan and the Nabateans play an important role in the mystery. I hope there will be further series entries to meet the demands of 9-12 year old mystery lovers.
Review based on an eARC received through NetGalley.
Review based on an eARC received through NetGalley.
October 14, 2023
Listen: this was wonderful
I loved the story, loved Asha and Alex (honestly want to BE Asha what a baddie), and I loved the lessons woven into the book. So good, 10/10 would recommend
I loved the story, loved Asha and Alex (honestly want to BE Asha what a baddie), and I loved the lessons woven into the book. So good, 10/10 would recommend
December 31, 2023
rly fun and cute! definitely better than what i was reading before
July 13, 2024
4.5 stars! This was such a cute mystery!
September 16, 2023
When an eccentric museum director goes missing, Asha and Alex, young detectives, investigate! They received a mysterious letter from him upon his disappearance, but so did four other people. They must investigate the clues to find the culprit.
This was a fun read! It was really low-stakes (no murder or violence), which I found great for the age group this book is designed for. It was full of fun puzzles and clues, and a good mystery trail to follow. Great for kids (and adults) who like mysteries!
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was a fun read! It was really low-stakes (no murder or violence), which I found great for the age group this book is designed for. It was full of fun puzzles and clues, and a good mystery trail to follow. Great for kids (and adults) who like mysteries!
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 16, 2024
THE TWISTS ARE CRAZY!! Highly recommend this book. 10/10. no notes.
Want to read
April 16, 2023Note: I accessed a digital review copy of this book from the publisher through Edelweiss.
August 19, 2023
Thank you so much to Union Square Kids and Netgalley for the ebook to read and review.
Dr. Fairfleet has gone missing, assumed kidnapped. Four adults that work for him all receive letters and a cryptic clue. Only Alex and Asha of the A+A Detective Agency can solve, who receive a letter from Dr. Fairfleet to help start unfolding and solving the mysteries for who is responsible and where Dr. Fairfleet is.
What a thoroughly entertaining mystery filled with such thought out characters and incredible storylines. The whole mystery was so gripping you unfolded one small segment but had so much to find out and piece together. You can’t help but get enthralled in it. Wanting to trying to piece everything together whilst reading, from the tiniest clue to the biggest answers you need to figure it all out, just like Asha the puzzle must be completed. I loved it so much and what an amazing mystery it was.
The characters were amazing, from Alex and Asha as our protagonists who were really different but their differences were what made them entertaining, they worked differently, thought differently, saw things differently. Each offering the best solutions and ways to approach situations which was so entertaining and helped ,are the case that much more fun. Then we have our suspects, who you are left wondering the whole time who is responsible. Each one of them are in a job of authority, but each had a secret to unlock or were holding to themselves. None wanted to play or solve it themselves, but found they got invested whether they wanted to or not, because they had a lot at stake if they didn’t.
I loved the solution to Dr. Fairfleet, it was actually funny in a way when you find out what’s really happening, how it all came about. I did predict a little bit of his mystery fairly early on without many clues, but I’m not sure everyone would get it as early on as I did. I really enjoyed getting to find out everything in this little puzzle he sent everyone on and learning more about this very fascinating character.
This whole mystery was amazing, I loved it from the very start and even when it ended I would have happily kept reading, to solve more fun mysteries with the A&A detectives. This is a book I really recommend if you love a good mystery, ones that only give you clues in drips and drabs, so they make you want to read more, so you have to figure it out completely on your own as they build up to all the big answers. Then you’ll literally love this, I did. Nothing is revealed early, the story telling is incredible, the characters work wonderfully together and you’ll find storylines you never even thought would come. I loved it and hope there will be more in this series to devour as this was an incredible read.
Dr. Fairfleet has gone missing, assumed kidnapped. Four adults that work for him all receive letters and a cryptic clue. Only Alex and Asha of the A+A Detective Agency can solve, who receive a letter from Dr. Fairfleet to help start unfolding and solving the mysteries for who is responsible and where Dr. Fairfleet is.
What a thoroughly entertaining mystery filled with such thought out characters and incredible storylines. The whole mystery was so gripping you unfolded one small segment but had so much to find out and piece together. You can’t help but get enthralled in it. Wanting to trying to piece everything together whilst reading, from the tiniest clue to the biggest answers you need to figure it all out, just like Asha the puzzle must be completed. I loved it so much and what an amazing mystery it was.
The characters were amazing, from Alex and Asha as our protagonists who were really different but their differences were what made them entertaining, they worked differently, thought differently, saw things differently. Each offering the best solutions and ways to approach situations which was so entertaining and helped ,are the case that much more fun. Then we have our suspects, who you are left wondering the whole time who is responsible. Each one of them are in a job of authority, but each had a secret to unlock or were holding to themselves. None wanted to play or solve it themselves, but found they got invested whether they wanted to or not, because they had a lot at stake if they didn’t.
I loved the solution to Dr. Fairfleet, it was actually funny in a way when you find out what’s really happening, how it all came about. I did predict a little bit of his mystery fairly early on without many clues, but I’m not sure everyone would get it as early on as I did. I really enjoyed getting to find out everything in this little puzzle he sent everyone on and learning more about this very fascinating character.
This whole mystery was amazing, I loved it from the very start and even when it ended I would have happily kept reading, to solve more fun mysteries with the A&A detectives. This is a book I really recommend if you love a good mystery, ones that only give you clues in drips and drabs, so they make you want to read more, so you have to figure it out completely on your own as they build up to all the big answers. Then you’ll literally love this, I did. Nothing is revealed early, the story telling is incredible, the characters work wonderfully together and you’ll find storylines you never even thought would come. I loved it and hope there will be more in this series to devour as this was an incredible read.
August 17, 2023
With the excitement of a treasure hunt, this is a mystery to keep the reader anticipating the next clue at every turn of the page.
Dr. Alistair Fairfleet has gone missing. As a millionaire and the head of a well-known institute, this is hardly a small thing, especially since only the four directors and the A&A Detective Agency have received letters with clues. Alex and Asha take the problem seriously, but then, they only have two weeks to find him. Or else. But this isn't a straight-forward case. According to the clues, the four directors aren't as innocent as they appear, and their secrets are more incriminating than anyone imagines.
Alex and Asha are quite the detective duo, and while they act very age appropriate, are clever and catch things the adults tend to overlook. But not always and not always at the same time. That's one of he fun things about this read. Alex and Asha don't see the world the same way, nor do they always agree. The author lets their different viewpoints snuggle right together in an unique way, so that the clash is obvious. This not only adds a dab of humor but makes their personalities shine, without plunging into deep character moments. The story keeps a steady pace, letting the clues pull from one scene to the next.
The secrets Alex and Asha uncover point at serious crimes and remain age appropriate. The mystery never talks down to the reader, but displays how appearances aren't always true and, sometimes, there's a lot more to things than even the second or third glance uncovers. This also introduces readers to archeology and problems in the museum realm as well as to Shakespeare, especially King Lear. There are a few lesser known vocabulary words to help readers build on that end, too. So, there's more to this book than first meets the eye.
It's a smooth, fun read, which keeps the reader guessing until the end and has some surprising twists. The characters are enjoyable and come across with natural finesse. It left me wanting to climb into the A&A treehouse and see what Alex and Asha will be up to next. I received a DRC and read it in one sitting because it was really that interesting.
Dr. Alistair Fairfleet has gone missing. As a millionaire and the head of a well-known institute, this is hardly a small thing, especially since only the four directors and the A&A Detective Agency have received letters with clues. Alex and Asha take the problem seriously, but then, they only have two weeks to find him. Or else. But this isn't a straight-forward case. According to the clues, the four directors aren't as innocent as they appear, and their secrets are more incriminating than anyone imagines.
Alex and Asha are quite the detective duo, and while they act very age appropriate, are clever and catch things the adults tend to overlook. But not always and not always at the same time. That's one of he fun things about this read. Alex and Asha don't see the world the same way, nor do they always agree. The author lets their different viewpoints snuggle right together in an unique way, so that the clash is obvious. This not only adds a dab of humor but makes their personalities shine, without plunging into deep character moments. The story keeps a steady pace, letting the clues pull from one scene to the next.
The secrets Alex and Asha uncover point at serious crimes and remain age appropriate. The mystery never talks down to the reader, but displays how appearances aren't always true and, sometimes, there's a lot more to things than even the second or third glance uncovers. This also introduces readers to archeology and problems in the museum realm as well as to Shakespeare, especially King Lear. There are a few lesser known vocabulary words to help readers build on that end, too. So, there's more to this book than first meets the eye.
It's a smooth, fun read, which keeps the reader guessing until the end and has some surprising twists. The characters are enjoyable and come across with natural finesse. It left me wanting to climb into the A&A treehouse and see what Alex and Asha will be up to next. I received a DRC and read it in one sitting because it was really that interesting.
June 9, 2024
Missing millionaire. Secret Clues. Historical artefacts. Four suspects. Two tenacious detectives. This book has the perfect mix for a mystery that needs to be solved! Each clue links to the next one and will keep the reader guessing about how they are all connected and what each clue means. Because no sooner is one clue solved than another demands to be uncovered to ensure all the clues blend together.
When Dr. Alistair Fairfleet disappears, it soon becomes clear this is not a normal missing person case. Not only do four people (soon to become suspects) each receive a letter about the disappearance, so to do Asha and Alex of A&A Detective Agency. These two twelve-year-old sleuths must use their wit and knowledge of the Fairfleet Institute, as well as investigative skills as they decode clues and interview the suspects likely to be behind the disappearance.
Saxton weaves an intricate web of mystery as each character involved helps to solve the clues through their own personal knowledge to try and help solve the mystery. However, each suspect has some kind of motive. Along with a little help from Asha and Alex who are very good at their detective work, these motives are slowly revealed as the story unfolds.
Alex and Asha work well together, and it was enjoyable to get to know each character and their personality as they both committed to solving the disappearance. They are mature for their age and Saxton creates a good balance between including adult support and having the young detectives use their strengths to interpret the clues.
There are tantalising twists and terrific turns until the story arrives at the dramatic conclusion. So, who is responsible for the kidnapping of the eccentric director of the Fairfield Institute? You will just have to read this delightful mystery to find out!
This book is a fabulous blend of action, mystery, friendship and perseverance. The Fairfleet Affair is suitable for a 12+ readership.
When Dr. Alistair Fairfleet disappears, it soon becomes clear this is not a normal missing person case. Not only do four people (soon to become suspects) each receive a letter about the disappearance, so to do Asha and Alex of A&A Detective Agency. These two twelve-year-old sleuths must use their wit and knowledge of the Fairfleet Institute, as well as investigative skills as they decode clues and interview the suspects likely to be behind the disappearance.
Saxton weaves an intricate web of mystery as each character involved helps to solve the clues through their own personal knowledge to try and help solve the mystery. However, each suspect has some kind of motive. Along with a little help from Asha and Alex who are very good at their detective work, these motives are slowly revealed as the story unfolds.
Alex and Asha work well together, and it was enjoyable to get to know each character and their personality as they both committed to solving the disappearance. They are mature for their age and Saxton creates a good balance between including adult support and having the young detectives use their strengths to interpret the clues.
There are tantalising twists and terrific turns until the story arrives at the dramatic conclusion. So, who is responsible for the kidnapping of the eccentric director of the Fairfield Institute? You will just have to read this delightful mystery to find out!
This book is a fabulous blend of action, mystery, friendship and perseverance. The Fairfleet Affair is suitable for a 12+ readership.
November 13, 2023
I loved this clever and intricate mystery, with two lovable sleuths who don’t always get along. It reminded me of The Westing Game and other puzzly classics. Besides being a lot of fun, it explores the serious issue of whether museums have a responsibility to return artworks to the places they originated (were swiped) from.
Despite all, museums in this story are magical places—treasure houses where the world’s greatest treasure hunts can happen. I almost expected Claudia Kincaid to make an appearance (Hmm…she’d be in her late sixties by now, and would definitely have filing cabinets stuffed with secrets).
I also really enjoyed the writing. For example, when Alex loses his shoe during a chase scene, he runs “like an injured but very motivated chicken.” I was often cracking up just at the descriptions. My favorite character was Dr. Wright—who, when irritated, puffs up “like a roasting marshmallow” and gives his “trademark walrus frown.”
And the setting! I found myself wishing I could live in Northbrook, a town small enough so that you can bike anywhere—yet it's full of enigmas. Everyone knows your name, but everyone’s suspect. At least we can visit by reading this book!
Despite all, museums in this story are magical places—treasure houses where the world’s greatest treasure hunts can happen. I almost expected Claudia Kincaid to make an appearance (Hmm…she’d be in her late sixties by now, and would definitely have filing cabinets stuffed with secrets).
I also really enjoyed the writing. For example, when Alex loses his shoe during a chase scene, he runs “like an injured but very motivated chicken.” I was often cracking up just at the descriptions. My favorite character was Dr. Wright—who, when irritated, puffs up “like a roasting marshmallow” and gives his “trademark walrus frown.”
And the setting! I found myself wishing I could live in Northbrook, a town small enough so that you can bike anywhere—yet it's full of enigmas. Everyone knows your name, but everyone’s suspect. At least we can visit by reading this book!
September 18, 2023
Alex and Asha are twelve-year-old detectives in Northbrook who haven’t had a real case yet. When Dr. Alistair Fairfleet, the chairman of the Fairfleet Institute, goes missing, Alex and Asha get their first case. Dr. Fairfleet sent letters to his four directors of the Institute, as well as Alex and Asha, which were to be delivered if he ever went missing. They are on a countdown to find Dr. Fairfleet by July 15th. The two friends follow a series of clues to discover art forgeries, archaeological crimes, and secrets of the Fairfleet family.
This was a fun middle grade mystery filled with puzzles! I loved this kind of puzzle story as a kid and now as an adult. It felt like a combination of The Da Vinci Code, The Westing Game, and The Inheritance Games. The puzzles were intricate but fun to solve along with the characters. I had figured out most of the ending before I reached it, but I’m sure most middle grade readers would be pleasantly surprised at the twists!
The Fairfleet Affair is a fun mystery! I hope there will be more books in this series!
Thank you Union Square and Co for sending me a copy!
This was a fun middle grade mystery filled with puzzles! I loved this kind of puzzle story as a kid and now as an adult. It felt like a combination of The Da Vinci Code, The Westing Game, and The Inheritance Games. The puzzles were intricate but fun to solve along with the characters. I had figured out most of the ending before I reached it, but I’m sure most middle grade readers would be pleasantly surprised at the twists!
The Fairfleet Affair is a fun mystery! I hope there will be more books in this series!
Thank you Union Square and Co for sending me a copy!
September 22, 2023
Every once in a while, I come across a middle-grade book that I know my kid will not only enjoy but absolutely love. That’s exactly the case with The A&A Detective Agency: The Fairfleet Affair.
This delightful detective story is smart, funny and full of heart.
At the center of The A&A Detective Agency: The Fairfleet Affair are Alex and Asha, young detectives who got their start from Dr. Alistair Fairfleet himself. These clever kids are bright, inquisitive and determined. Their true friendship is such a pleasure to happen upon, and their detective skills are spot on.
Debut author K. H. Saxton tells the story with the confidence and cadence of a seasoned writer. Her knack for combining an intricate plot, dynamic characters and compelling information into a novel that is perfectly suited to middle readers is commendable. The backdrop of art, theater and natural history provides depth and added interest.
The A&A Detective Agency: The Fairfleet Affair is a fast-moving mystery that’s got wide appeal. It’s one of my top middle-grade reads of the year, and I can’t wait to read more stories from the author.
This delightful detective story is smart, funny and full of heart.
At the center of The A&A Detective Agency: The Fairfleet Affair are Alex and Asha, young detectives who got their start from Dr. Alistair Fairfleet himself. These clever kids are bright, inquisitive and determined. Their true friendship is such a pleasure to happen upon, and their detective skills are spot on.
Debut author K. H. Saxton tells the story with the confidence and cadence of a seasoned writer. Her knack for combining an intricate plot, dynamic characters and compelling information into a novel that is perfectly suited to middle readers is commendable. The backdrop of art, theater and natural history provides depth and added interest.
The A&A Detective Agency: The Fairfleet Affair is a fast-moving mystery that’s got wide appeal. It’s one of my top middle-grade reads of the year, and I can’t wait to read more stories from the author.
August 23, 2023
I received an electronic ARC from Union Square Kids - A subsidiary of Sterling Publishing through NetGalley.
Alex and Asha are fifth grade detectives who have formed their own agency. They are surprised when they learn their friend, Dr. Alistair Fairfleet is missing. They're even more surprised to receive a note with a clue to his disappearance. They learn that each of the four directors of the Fairfleet Institute also received clues. The detectives persuade the four adults to share their clues, and the story unfolds as they solve the case of Dr. Fairfleet's disappearance. Saxton weaves humor with the puzzle solving as readers can work on the clues along with Alex and Asha. They will connect to the friends' relationship including when they argue. The four adults first seem one-dimensional but further information is revealed about each as the mystery advances.
A fun read with enough challenges/red herrings to keep readers guessing.
Alex and Asha are fifth grade detectives who have formed their own agency. They are surprised when they learn their friend, Dr. Alistair Fairfleet is missing. They're even more surprised to receive a note with a clue to his disappearance. They learn that each of the four directors of the Fairfleet Institute also received clues. The detectives persuade the four adults to share their clues, and the story unfolds as they solve the case of Dr. Fairfleet's disappearance. Saxton weaves humor with the puzzle solving as readers can work on the clues along with Alex and Asha. They will connect to the friends' relationship including when they argue. The four adults first seem one-dimensional but further information is revealed about each as the mystery advances.
A fun read with enough challenges/red herrings to keep readers guessing.
August 16, 2024
The Westing Game revisited!
Excellent mystery with all the best characters. Alex and Asha aka the A & A Detective Agency help solve the case of the missing Dr. Fairfleet. Luckily he has left clues and letters to four of the members of his art society.
Excellent Middle School mystery. There are some hints of "something stronger" and "would have used a different word" innuendos of inappropriate choices or behavior but they are not specifically used.
Fun Twists on other mysteries:
Nancy Drew & Drew Nancy, Sherlock and Shimlock Holmes, Aggie the Bassett Hound
Topics: mystery- with red herrings, clues and all the elements!, secrets, art, artists
Recommended: grades 6+ for some mention of older behaviors and complex characters/content
Excellent mystery with all the best characters. Alex and Asha aka the A & A Detective Agency help solve the case of the missing Dr. Fairfleet. Luckily he has left clues and letters to four of the members of his art society.
Excellent Middle School mystery. There are some hints of "something stronger" and "would have used a different word" innuendos of inappropriate choices or behavior but they are not specifically used.
Fun Twists on other mysteries:
Nancy Drew & Drew Nancy, Sherlock and Shimlock Holmes, Aggie the Bassett Hound
Topics: mystery- with red herrings, clues and all the elements!, secrets, art, artists
Recommended: grades 6+ for some mention of older behaviors and complex characters/content
May 3, 2023
As a parent and educator, I cannot WAIT for this book to make its way into the world. It is an inspiration for young readers who like to ponder all kinds of questions and who want to imagine a life with mysteries too exciting not to solve. Young readers will love the two protagonists and the setting that the author has brought to life. It is pitch-perfect emotionally and will convince kids to keep reading after their parents have warned them to switch the lights off. Fun and smart in equal measure.
December 9, 2023
Asha and Alex are utterly delightful, as is Saxton’s writing. The story transported me to the audacious and exploratory days of youth with cherished neighborhood friends, all as I relished in the hook of a good puzzle. Furthermore, ‘The Fairfleet Affair’ does a superb job of grappling with the duties that cultural institutions hold to right past wrongs, while still illuminating the importance, power, and privilege of such entities - as well as the people dedicated to curating and stewarding such impactful bastions of humanity. I highly recommend!!
December 26, 2023
Asha and Alex have formed a detective agency based in Alex’s treehouse with help from Dr. Alistair Fairfleet head of the Fairfleet Institute. When he goes missing, Dr. Fairfleet leaves behind mysterious notes with the A&A Detective Agency. Asha and Alex seem to be the only ones focussed on finding Dr. Fairfleet and are worried about the deadline Dr. Fairfleet left in his messages. As they set out to investigate, they uncover some secrets the directors would rather not have revealed but will they find Dr. Fairfleet in time?
May 25, 2025
Read this book in 2 sittings each lasting 1 hour outside on a beautiful summer day in a hammock. Absolutely great writing, a mystery just predictable enough you have a general idea of the truth by the end but still get caught off guard by what's revealed, characters with secrets but mostly good intentions, and life lessons taught that seem neither preachy or watered down. lots of art & history references that I thoroughly enjoyed. I literally was just smiling the entire time I read this book, it is so sweet.
September 24, 2023
A fun book that had enough twists and turns that was enjoyable for me. It was never “formulaic” but at the same time followed all the rules for mystery books. As this IS a book geared towards younger readers, I’ve now handed it over to my 11 and 13 year old children for their thoughts. (4.5 rounded up)
Note: I have a personal connection to the editor. Not that it changes anything but this book nerd always wanted to put one of these types of disclaimer in a review.
Note: I have a personal connection to the editor. Not that it changes anything but this book nerd always wanted to put one of these types of disclaimer in a review.
January 19, 2024
Fun, a few laugh out loud parts, and great representation plus several mysteries wrapped into one. Has a modern Westing Game vibe with an interesting subplot about returning artifacts to their native cultures. My son’s favorite parts involved the kind-of villain Quinten Carlisle. A bit slow at times, but if this became a series we would definitely read a follow up.
The protagonists are getting ready to start 6th grade after the summer, so a great choice for strong 4th/5th grade readers.
The protagonists are getting ready to start 6th grade after the summer, so a great choice for strong 4th/5th grade readers.
February 20, 2024
An engaging middle grade detective novel about art, museums, and history, and our responsibility to other cultures and peoples.
Saxton did an excellent job creating a compelling story while using a small cast of characters: there is one missing person, two young detectives, and four suspects. While the existence of other people is mentioned (for instance, the parents of the young detectives), none of them are ever shown on the page.
Saxton did an excellent job creating a compelling story while using a small cast of characters: there is one missing person, two young detectives, and four suspects. While the existence of other people is mentioned (for instance, the parents of the young detectives), none of them are ever shown on the page.
March 31, 2025
Rounded up from 3.5. Fun, cute mystery where two kids are solving the disappearance of the head of a museum. The mystery was great and the worldbuilding was a ton of fun, but the characterization often told instead of showed. But my biggest gripe is, unlike the other museum-related mystery I read this week, the story felt like an adult talking to kids rather than being from the perspective of the kids themselves. Which is a creative choice more than a flaw, I suppose, but either way it’s not my preference.
September 14, 2023
I enjoyed following these kids on their clue solving mission. Also deals with the ethics around museums and who has the rights to a piece of art. A well set up mystery, with a satisfying conclusion. Definitely has the spirit of The Westing Game. Look forward to more cases with the A&A Detective Agency.
November 1, 2023
Read this aloud for my son and was captivated by the story myself. I was excited to see if I could solve the mystery and was even surprised a few times. The friendship between the main characters is well developed and a fun thread through the book. I highly recommend for any young reader who enjoys solving a puzzle.
January 10, 2024
A good middle-grade mystery where a twelve-year-old boy and a twelve-year-old girl try to find a missing chairman of a prestigious institute. The author did a good job of creating tension between the characters. Besides the mystery, the author mentions much about history and classic detectives. I hope to read more books by this author.
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