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Super Spies #1
The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer
This book opens in a small town in Michigan where fifteen-year-old Sarah Cole is stuck spending the summer at her Aunt and Uncle’s with her sister, Lacey. She’s not happy with the situation until she befriends a girl named Jackie. The three girls stumble upon the ruthless murder of a reclusive neighborhood woman. One of the officers investigating the crime believes the girls are responsible for her death. Fearing that this officer will frame them for the murder, the girls organize their own detective squad. They become the Super Spies and start their own fact-finding mission. The Super Spies can’t understand why anyone would want to murder the “Cat Lady” until they start digging into her past and discover a horrible crime that happened thirty years ago. They uncover a connection between the two crimes and attempt to bring this information to the police, only to be reprimanded for meddling in the inquest. Not only are the girls upset by the admonition, but they also struggle with the fact that their exuberant investigating could provide a legal loophole allowing the killer to go free. To make matters worse, the police don’t even believe them. Frustrated by this turn of events, the Super Spies realize it’s up to them to snare the Cat Lady killer.
- GenresYoung AdultMystery
277 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 12, 2012
1 person is currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
September 23, 2012
REVIEW BY: Arianna, age 9 years, 9 months
In the beginning Sarah and her sister, Lacy, are spending the summer with their uncle and aunt, but then they meet Jackie. After they meet Jackie, things do not go as they planned because the cat lady is murdered. We find out in the story that about thirty years before the cat lady's death, her son had been kidnapped. Sarah, Lacy, and Jackie become junior sleuths and solve the mystery of who murdered the cat lady. When they figure out who murdered the cat lady, they also find out that the killer has had the cat lady's son all those years. When the son finds out that the cat lady was his mother, he is heartbroken. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars, because it is a perfect book for children who love to read mysteries.
In the beginning Sarah and her sister, Lacy, are spending the summer with their uncle and aunt, but then they meet Jackie. After they meet Jackie, things do not go as they planned because the cat lady is murdered. We find out in the story that about thirty years before the cat lady's death, her son had been kidnapped. Sarah, Lacy, and Jackie become junior sleuths and solve the mystery of who murdered the cat lady. When they figure out who murdered the cat lady, they also find out that the killer has had the cat lady's son all those years. When the son finds out that the cat lady was his mother, he is heartbroken. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars, because it is a perfect book for children who love to read mysteries.
February 8, 2013
What would you do when your boring summer gets turned into something unexpected, exciting and dangerous?
Sarah is so not looking forward to spending her summer with her younger sister Lacey at their uncle’s home in a small town. She is a city girl and she can’t quite imagine herself living in a small boring town for the summer. But when she stumbles upon a ruthless murder, she decides she’ll investigate and hopefully help to put the murderer into justice. With the help of her sister and two friends, Sarah learns that picking up objects at a crime scene can lead to undesirable consequences. Can she get herself out of trouble before it’s too late?
I was sort of expecting this to be a fun crime mystery. What I didn’t expect was the moral implications of right and wrong in the story. While I welcomed the implications, I personally found the behavior of the characters a bit too young for their age. What I do like about the characters is that each one of them has a distinctive personality. While Lacey is timid and hates to break rules, Sarah is her opposite. It’s interesting to see how each of them influences one another as the story unfolds. I wouldn’t say there is a lot of character development here but I do like that Sarah and her friends get to learn a few things about not judging people by their appearances while they go about investigating the small town crime. I guess we all have our opinions on people who may appear weird but when it comes to pranks and jokes, how far is too far? Is it alright to make fun of those who look weird or crazy? How about those who have disabilities? Is it okay to tell jokes about them just because they’re disabled?
While The Super Spies and The Cat Lady Killer starts out more like a middle-grade mystery, I like that it ends with something that is worthy of discussion not just among young teens but also among grown-ups. I wouldn’t say the story is gruesome because it is not but it does serve as a reminder that sometimes we cannot judge a person by his/ her appearance and occupation.
--
Originally posted on Leisure Reads.
A copy was provided by author for review purposes.
Sarah is so not looking forward to spending her summer with her younger sister Lacey at their uncle’s home in a small town. She is a city girl and she can’t quite imagine herself living in a small boring town for the summer. But when she stumbles upon a ruthless murder, she decides she’ll investigate and hopefully help to put the murderer into justice. With the help of her sister and two friends, Sarah learns that picking up objects at a crime scene can lead to undesirable consequences. Can she get herself out of trouble before it’s too late?
I was sort of expecting this to be a fun crime mystery. What I didn’t expect was the moral implications of right and wrong in the story. While I welcomed the implications, I personally found the behavior of the characters a bit too young for their age. What I do like about the characters is that each one of them has a distinctive personality. While Lacey is timid and hates to break rules, Sarah is her opposite. It’s interesting to see how each of them influences one another as the story unfolds. I wouldn’t say there is a lot of character development here but I do like that Sarah and her friends get to learn a few things about not judging people by their appearances while they go about investigating the small town crime. I guess we all have our opinions on people who may appear weird but when it comes to pranks and jokes, how far is too far? Is it alright to make fun of those who look weird or crazy? How about those who have disabilities? Is it okay to tell jokes about them just because they’re disabled?
While The Super Spies and The Cat Lady Killer starts out more like a middle-grade mystery, I like that it ends with something that is worthy of discussion not just among young teens but also among grown-ups. I wouldn’t say the story is gruesome because it is not but it does serve as a reminder that sometimes we cannot judge a person by his/ her appearance and occupation.
--
Originally posted on Leisure Reads.
A copy was provided by author for review purposes.
June 2, 2012
The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer
By Lisa Orchard
Sam Spade watch out. Castle and Beckett move over.
There’s a new crime fighting team in town, Harrisburg, Michigan.
Sarah and Lacey, girls from the big city of Walker are spending their summer with their aunt and uncle. They don’t have any idea what to do until they meet up with Jackie who points out the local curiosity, the Cat Lady.
It isn’t until a game of ‘Truth and Dare’ that things get interesting for the girls, as in finding a dead Cat Lady.
Things don’t look too good for the three since one of the police officers tries to convince the chief, the did it.
What follows is a story crafted around some of the best mid teen detective work I’ve ever read.
Lisa doesn’t leave out any details as she leads us on a journey to find the real killer of this poor woman. Along the way we are hit with one surprise after another. Each twist and turn will keep you, as it did with me, turning the page until the end and the big reveal.
It is my sincere hope Lisa Orchard will bring these three girls back again and again.
Disclaimer-I bought this book from Amazon.
By Lisa Orchard
Sam Spade watch out. Castle and Beckett move over.
There’s a new crime fighting team in town, Harrisburg, Michigan.
Sarah and Lacey, girls from the big city of Walker are spending their summer with their aunt and uncle. They don’t have any idea what to do until they meet up with Jackie who points out the local curiosity, the Cat Lady.
It isn’t until a game of ‘Truth and Dare’ that things get interesting for the girls, as in finding a dead Cat Lady.
Things don’t look too good for the three since one of the police officers tries to convince the chief, the did it.
What follows is a story crafted around some of the best mid teen detective work I’ve ever read.
Lisa doesn’t leave out any details as she leads us on a journey to find the real killer of this poor woman. Along the way we are hit with one surprise after another. Each twist and turn will keep you, as it did with me, turning the page until the end and the big reveal.
It is my sincere hope Lisa Orchard will bring these three girls back again and again.
Disclaimer-I bought this book from Amazon.
July 8, 2012
Firstly, my thanks to Lisa for providing me with a copy to read and for the chance of an honest review.
3.5 stars.
Lisa Orchard debut is a singularly one of a kind novel about suspense, friendship and the need to prove that truth and right will triumph over evil.
Summery.
Sarah and her sister Lacey are stuck in some little town for the summer with nothing to do and she has very little expectations of good things to come. And good things don’t really come but life changing experiences do. Sarah meets a girl named Jackie on her wandering and they become fast friends. One day they decided to play a game of “Truth or Dare” and stumble upon the body of a woman who has been brutally murdered. And then a cop tries to frame the girls for the killing. Something wrong is going on here, and the Super Spies are going to find out what’s going on.
My Thoughts: I feel like I need to start out by saying that this is NOT the type of book that I ever read. Mysteries, thrillers, no thanks. I am a romance girl, tall, blonde and incredibly handsome needs to be in there somewhere. So this book was very different for me. Sarah is our narrator and, as far a character goes, she was very well done. My Thoughts-and feelings-on this book were spirally. At some points I liked it and at others I didn’t.
Characters:
Sarah. She was our main character and was created to be one. (If you know what I mean) I liked her. She was easy to be with and didn’t really get on my nerves. Some of her thoughts seemed a bit childish. She is shown to be headstrong, a “classic teen with rebellion towards her superiors,” who thought a lot on friends and fun and summer. But she’s strong and a leader, even though she maybe not be leading into the smartest situations, but still. Lacey. She drove me crazy. I get that she is young-a maidenly 14 years of age-and that some characters need a little bit of weakness, but I felt that this weakness was over the top. Whimpering at every little thing is nuts. Jackie was fun and flirty and the “fashionista” and fit well into the story, although I did wonder if the girl had another other friends? It seemed to me that we know very little about her. Mostly superficial stuff and I wish we could have dug a little deeper.
Our bad guys were baddddd and our parental figures were faintly ridiculous. (As we never saw them, but then they are staying the summer at their aunt and uncles. I would still think that they would be called for certain things…like their daughters going to jail.) But overall the characters were good. I also felt that Sarah grew quite a bit in herself. She went from easy and breezy attitude to seeing a bit of the real world which was sad. She lost part of her innocence.
The Story.
These Super Spies did incredibly stupid things in this book. I get it. They were trying to catch a killer and not be blamed for the murder themselves. But trespassing on a crime scene, following murders, meeting murders, meeting ex police and ex reporters. But was the story alright? It was fine. Classic to a tea.
The Writing:
One thing I must mention. Whenever one of the girls was drinking a pop, they would say, “Oh, that hits the spot!” It drove me completely mad! One time was fine, three or four times with the same wording was NOT.
What did I think of the writing though? It was simple, nothing special, and easily read. The age group could have been elementary, which isn’t bad, and the concepts aren’t hard either. Catch killer, investigate, ect.
It was also very short, only 165 pages on my Nook. (Just a fun fact.)
Age Group.
This is something that I don’t usually address in my reviews. I feel the need to here. I mentioned that the writing was simply done and easy to read, but I wouldn’t recommend it for elementary kids. The concepts within this novel, while not horrible grotesque, are mildly violent in a few scenes. (Find the body covered in blood, Scott cutting his foot…)This book would be very well suited for the ages of 12-16 and in mostly girls. I can’t see a boy enjoying it but then I am not a boy and would not know. The material discussed-death, murder, blood, suspects-might freak some out. I admit, it freaked me out, when I was reading at home alone. (But then I am easily afraid.)
Wrap Up.
Lisa Orchard has created something here that will sparkle and shine when found by the right reading light.
3.5 stars.
Lisa Orchard debut is a singularly one of a kind novel about suspense, friendship and the need to prove that truth and right will triumph over evil.
Summery.
Sarah and her sister Lacey are stuck in some little town for the summer with nothing to do and she has very little expectations of good things to come. And good things don’t really come but life changing experiences do. Sarah meets a girl named Jackie on her wandering and they become fast friends. One day they decided to play a game of “Truth or Dare” and stumble upon the body of a woman who has been brutally murdered. And then a cop tries to frame the girls for the killing. Something wrong is going on here, and the Super Spies are going to find out what’s going on.
My Thoughts: I feel like I need to start out by saying that this is NOT the type of book that I ever read. Mysteries, thrillers, no thanks. I am a romance girl, tall, blonde and incredibly handsome needs to be in there somewhere. So this book was very different for me. Sarah is our narrator and, as far a character goes, she was very well done. My Thoughts-and feelings-on this book were spirally. At some points I liked it and at others I didn’t.
Characters:
Sarah. She was our main character and was created to be one. (If you know what I mean) I liked her. She was easy to be with and didn’t really get on my nerves. Some of her thoughts seemed a bit childish. She is shown to be headstrong, a “classic teen with rebellion towards her superiors,” who thought a lot on friends and fun and summer. But she’s strong and a leader, even though she maybe not be leading into the smartest situations, but still. Lacey. She drove me crazy. I get that she is young-a maidenly 14 years of age-and that some characters need a little bit of weakness, but I felt that this weakness was over the top. Whimpering at every little thing is nuts. Jackie was fun and flirty and the “fashionista” and fit well into the story, although I did wonder if the girl had another other friends? It seemed to me that we know very little about her. Mostly superficial stuff and I wish we could have dug a little deeper.
Our bad guys were baddddd and our parental figures were faintly ridiculous. (As we never saw them, but then they are staying the summer at their aunt and uncles. I would still think that they would be called for certain things…like their daughters going to jail.) But overall the characters were good. I also felt that Sarah grew quite a bit in herself. She went from easy and breezy attitude to seeing a bit of the real world which was sad. She lost part of her innocence.
The Story.
These Super Spies did incredibly stupid things in this book. I get it. They were trying to catch a killer and not be blamed for the murder themselves. But trespassing on a crime scene, following murders, meeting murders, meeting ex police and ex reporters. But was the story alright? It was fine. Classic to a tea.
The Writing:
One thing I must mention. Whenever one of the girls was drinking a pop, they would say, “Oh, that hits the spot!” It drove me completely mad! One time was fine, three or four times with the same wording was NOT.
What did I think of the writing though? It was simple, nothing special, and easily read. The age group could have been elementary, which isn’t bad, and the concepts aren’t hard either. Catch killer, investigate, ect.
It was also very short, only 165 pages on my Nook. (Just a fun fact.)
Age Group.
This is something that I don’t usually address in my reviews. I feel the need to here. I mentioned that the writing was simply done and easy to read, but I wouldn’t recommend it for elementary kids. The concepts within this novel, while not horrible grotesque, are mildly violent in a few scenes. (Find the body covered in blood, Scott cutting his foot…)This book would be very well suited for the ages of 12-16 and in mostly girls. I can’t see a boy enjoying it but then I am not a boy and would not know. The material discussed-death, murder, blood, suspects-might freak some out. I admit, it freaked me out, when I was reading at home alone. (But then I am easily afraid.)
Wrap Up.
Lisa Orchard has created something here that will sparkle and shine when found by the right reading light.
August 5, 2012
Sarah’s expectations for her summer vacation are low. She and her sister, Lacey, are spending their summer in the small town of Harrisburg, at their Aunt and Uncle’s home. Sarah is expecting a summer filled with long boring days, but she is about to discover just how wrong she is.
When Sarah meets local resident, Jackie, her expectations for the summer begins to rise – at least she will have someone the same age to spend her days with. The two girls, along with Sarah’s sister, Lacey, play a game of ‘truth or dare’, which results in Sarah knocking on the door of Mrs Fedewa’s home – whom the local teen residents refer to as the weird ‘cat lady’. The innocent game of truth or dare soon turns dangerous when Sarah discovers the dead body of the ‘cat lady’.
The girls are caught at the crime seen by the police, and one officer – Officer Klonsky – is determined to prove that the girls are responsible for the murder. Sarah, Jackie and Lacey soon realize that if they want to clear their names and get justice for the ‘cat lady’ they will have to solve the murder themselves.
Calling themselves the Super Spies, the girls set out to find the real murderer, and what they uncover is both shocking and heart-breaking, and will put the girls’ lives in serious danger. Will Sarah, Jackie and Lacey be able to clear their names and solve the mystery of who killed the ‘cat lady’, or will the killer find them first?
~*~
One of the things that I really enjoyed about The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer was the suspense that filled the pages; I was on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next. I was unable to put the book down. I was about 7/8 of the way through the book when a television show that I wanted to watch was about to start. I actually missed the first fifteen minutes of the show because I wanted to finish the book; I had to know what happened.
Sarah, Jackie and Lacey are all likeable characters, and the friendship between Sarah and Jackie was something I loved. Their friendship was effortless; it was like they had known each other their whole lives, not just a few weeks. Also, by trying to unlock the mystery of who killed the ‘cat lady’, Sarah and her sister, Lacey, spend more time with each other, resulting in the girls becoming closer. Sarah gets to learn more about her sister. She realizes that they don’t have to be similar or like the same things to be close.
As the girls find themselves getting closer and closer to the truth of the crime, they discover just how tragic the ‘cat lady’s’ life had been. Sarah showed so much compassion towards the ‘cat lady’ – she wanted so desperately to get justice for the ‘cat lady’, and as a reader I was touched by how deeply Sarah cared.
When I think of The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer, the first thing that comes to mind is how great this book would be at introducing the crime/thriller genre to a younger reader. It’s filled with suspense, action, and friendship, and while the novel is about a murder it isn’t overly graphic.
The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer isn’t just a crime/thriller story, it’s also a story about friendship and life lessons, one that I thoroughly enjoyed. I’m looking forward to seeing what adventures Sarah, Jackie and Lacey undertake next.
Taking the reader on a journey full of suspense, The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer, will have readers eagerly turning the pages – while their sitting on the edge of their seats – desperate to see how the story will unfold.
4/5
*Thank you to Lisa Orchard for providing me with a copy of The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer to review.
Review originally posted at Treasured Tales for Young Adults.
When Sarah meets local resident, Jackie, her expectations for the summer begins to rise – at least she will have someone the same age to spend her days with. The two girls, along with Sarah’s sister, Lacey, play a game of ‘truth or dare’, which results in Sarah knocking on the door of Mrs Fedewa’s home – whom the local teen residents refer to as the weird ‘cat lady’. The innocent game of truth or dare soon turns dangerous when Sarah discovers the dead body of the ‘cat lady’.
The girls are caught at the crime seen by the police, and one officer – Officer Klonsky – is determined to prove that the girls are responsible for the murder. Sarah, Jackie and Lacey soon realize that if they want to clear their names and get justice for the ‘cat lady’ they will have to solve the murder themselves.
Calling themselves the Super Spies, the girls set out to find the real murderer, and what they uncover is both shocking and heart-breaking, and will put the girls’ lives in serious danger. Will Sarah, Jackie and Lacey be able to clear their names and solve the mystery of who killed the ‘cat lady’, or will the killer find them first?
~*~
One of the things that I really enjoyed about The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer was the suspense that filled the pages; I was on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next. I was unable to put the book down. I was about 7/8 of the way through the book when a television show that I wanted to watch was about to start. I actually missed the first fifteen minutes of the show because I wanted to finish the book; I had to know what happened.
Sarah, Jackie and Lacey are all likeable characters, and the friendship between Sarah and Jackie was something I loved. Their friendship was effortless; it was like they had known each other their whole lives, not just a few weeks. Also, by trying to unlock the mystery of who killed the ‘cat lady’, Sarah and her sister, Lacey, spend more time with each other, resulting in the girls becoming closer. Sarah gets to learn more about her sister. She realizes that they don’t have to be similar or like the same things to be close.
As the girls find themselves getting closer and closer to the truth of the crime, they discover just how tragic the ‘cat lady’s’ life had been. Sarah showed so much compassion towards the ‘cat lady’ – she wanted so desperately to get justice for the ‘cat lady’, and as a reader I was touched by how deeply Sarah cared.
When I think of The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer, the first thing that comes to mind is how great this book would be at introducing the crime/thriller genre to a younger reader. It’s filled with suspense, action, and friendship, and while the novel is about a murder it isn’t overly graphic.
The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer isn’t just a crime/thriller story, it’s also a story about friendship and life lessons, one that I thoroughly enjoyed. I’m looking forward to seeing what adventures Sarah, Jackie and Lacey undertake next.
Taking the reader on a journey full of suspense, The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer, will have readers eagerly turning the pages – while their sitting on the edge of their seats – desperate to see how the story will unfold.
4/5
*Thank you to Lisa Orchard for providing me with a copy of The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer to review.
Review originally posted at Treasured Tales for Young Adults.
July 13, 2012
Sarah and her sister Lacey are spending summer vacation in Michigan with their aunt and uncle. Being from the big city, Sarah is afraid she’ll be bored. However, she quickly makes friends with a girl named Jackie, and on the second day of their friendship Sarah is dared to knock on the Cat Lady’s door. Did you know that the Cat Lady is a scary witch?
Well, Sarah’s summer starts off with a bang when she accepts this dare, only to discover the Cat Lady lying dead on the floor of her home. But that’s not the worst of it! Moments after the girls discover the body, the police show up. The girls are hauled into the police station for questioning and are placed on the short list of suspects for the murder by an overzealous Officer Klonsky.
Now Sarah, Lacey, and Jackie must figure out who the real killer is. Will they clear their names? Catch the real killer? OR Will the real killer catch them first?
Plot Thoughts:
The focus of this story is on the mystery plot. Lisa Orchard does a nice job of moving the Super Spies from one ill-conceived caper to another! The voice of this mystery harkens back to Nancy Drew—who I loved as a kid. The mystery is well-constructed within the story. Clues lead to bigger clues, and I was just as curious as the Super Spies when it came to figuring out motive and facing the outcome! Moments of danger add a little spice and fast-paced action to the plot. I also enjoyed Sarah’s drive to find the true killer and seek justice.
The only thing that I didn’t really like was that sometimes redundant dialogue affected the pace of the plot, which is too bad because I really enjoyed the story line itself. Some of the conversations that had basic chatter needed to allow the reader to make inferences.
Character Thoughts:
Sarah has a big heart and a hankering to solve mysteries. Jackie is a fun-loving fashionista who is up for anything, and she works as a counter point to the sisters’ squabbling (which is true-to-form but did get a little annoying after a while). Because of these characters, I would recommend the story to upper middle grade students.
Character development—weak at first. I really struggled to connect with the Super Spies gang: Sarah, Jackie, and Lacey. I wanted to better understand Sarah’s motivation to be a detective; I got bits and pieces and understood a little better by the end, but I guess for my personal taste I prefer more detailed character development in the beginning. I might have also gotten more into Jackie and Sarah’s friendship—it was cute but felt rushed at first. By the end, I felt a little more connected and hope that in the second book, the Super Spies continue to develop :)
There were times I felt the girls were a little melodramatic and made poor decisions, but then I had to remind myself that they were three girls in their early teens…Hehe!
Overall Thoughts:
This is a mystery that any middle grade girl would enjoy. And I do plan on reading the second story because Lisa Orchard does have a knack for an interesting mystery!
Well, Sarah’s summer starts off with a bang when she accepts this dare, only to discover the Cat Lady lying dead on the floor of her home. But that’s not the worst of it! Moments after the girls discover the body, the police show up. The girls are hauled into the police station for questioning and are placed on the short list of suspects for the murder by an overzealous Officer Klonsky.
Now Sarah, Lacey, and Jackie must figure out who the real killer is. Will they clear their names? Catch the real killer? OR Will the real killer catch them first?
Plot Thoughts:
The focus of this story is on the mystery plot. Lisa Orchard does a nice job of moving the Super Spies from one ill-conceived caper to another! The voice of this mystery harkens back to Nancy Drew—who I loved as a kid. The mystery is well-constructed within the story. Clues lead to bigger clues, and I was just as curious as the Super Spies when it came to figuring out motive and facing the outcome! Moments of danger add a little spice and fast-paced action to the plot. I also enjoyed Sarah’s drive to find the true killer and seek justice.
The only thing that I didn’t really like was that sometimes redundant dialogue affected the pace of the plot, which is too bad because I really enjoyed the story line itself. Some of the conversations that had basic chatter needed to allow the reader to make inferences.
Character Thoughts:
Sarah has a big heart and a hankering to solve mysteries. Jackie is a fun-loving fashionista who is up for anything, and she works as a counter point to the sisters’ squabbling (which is true-to-form but did get a little annoying after a while). Because of these characters, I would recommend the story to upper middle grade students.
Character development—weak at first. I really struggled to connect with the Super Spies gang: Sarah, Jackie, and Lacey. I wanted to better understand Sarah’s motivation to be a detective; I got bits and pieces and understood a little better by the end, but I guess for my personal taste I prefer more detailed character development in the beginning. I might have also gotten more into Jackie and Sarah’s friendship—it was cute but felt rushed at first. By the end, I felt a little more connected and hope that in the second book, the Super Spies continue to develop :)
There were times I felt the girls were a little melodramatic and made poor decisions, but then I had to remind myself that they were three girls in their early teens…Hehe!
Overall Thoughts:
This is a mystery that any middle grade girl would enjoy. And I do plan on reading the second story because Lisa Orchard does have a knack for an interesting mystery!
April 12, 2013
"The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer" by Lisa Orchard is a fun, intriguing mystery for lovers of YA mystery and suspense. I don't necessarily think you have to be a young adult to enjoy this story, although there may be times when you want to shake the characters a bit for the decisions they make and the things they get themselves involved in.
If you grew up reading Nancy Drew or Judy Blume, then this book will feel like a return to your childhood. What I found endearing about this novel, was the author's ability to get inside the mind of young teen girls and make the dialogue between them seem believable. A lot of authors attempt this, and few succeed as well as Lisa Orchard has with this book. I like feeling as though I am listening to an actual conversation, and that was easy to imagine while reading this.
The characters are a good match for one another. There is the annoying little sister, the daring and bold friend and the not always certain but still determined older sister. I found them to work off of each other well and the varied personalities added a nice tension to the story even before the real mystery began. I knew pretty early on in this story that i would enjoy it.
The one thing I would like to note, is that visually speaking, I couldn't get a very clear picture of the characters in the beginning. While the author did not waste space giving the reader too much description, she also didn't offer up quite enough in my opinion.If I can picture the main characters within the first few chapters I can relate to them more easily.
Plot-wise, this book moves along at a nice pace, and the eventual resolution to the mystery was not completely expected. This is important to me, as I hate guessing right within the first couple of chapters. The suspense was just right, not too much to be unbelievable, but enough to keep the reader turning pages.
I think these are strong enough characters to lead a series, my only concern would be, how many times can these girls get themselves into such situations before there just isn't any way for the reader to believe that this much could happen to one group of kids? If Lisa Orchard can keep going with this series, while coming up with new mysteries for the group to solve she just mind find herself up there with the aforementioned greats. She certainly has the talent and understanding of how to tell a good story.
I would recommend this book for kids age 12 and over and anyone who enjoys a good mystery. The story is worth the time.
If you grew up reading Nancy Drew or Judy Blume, then this book will feel like a return to your childhood. What I found endearing about this novel, was the author's ability to get inside the mind of young teen girls and make the dialogue between them seem believable. A lot of authors attempt this, and few succeed as well as Lisa Orchard has with this book. I like feeling as though I am listening to an actual conversation, and that was easy to imagine while reading this.
The characters are a good match for one another. There is the annoying little sister, the daring and bold friend and the not always certain but still determined older sister. I found them to work off of each other well and the varied personalities added a nice tension to the story even before the real mystery began. I knew pretty early on in this story that i would enjoy it.
The one thing I would like to note, is that visually speaking, I couldn't get a very clear picture of the characters in the beginning. While the author did not waste space giving the reader too much description, she also didn't offer up quite enough in my opinion.If I can picture the main characters within the first few chapters I can relate to them more easily.
Plot-wise, this book moves along at a nice pace, and the eventual resolution to the mystery was not completely expected. This is important to me, as I hate guessing right within the first couple of chapters. The suspense was just right, not too much to be unbelievable, but enough to keep the reader turning pages.
I think these are strong enough characters to lead a series, my only concern would be, how many times can these girls get themselves into such situations before there just isn't any way for the reader to believe that this much could happen to one group of kids? If Lisa Orchard can keep going with this series, while coming up with new mysteries for the group to solve she just mind find herself up there with the aforementioned greats. She certainly has the talent and understanding of how to tell a good story.
I would recommend this book for kids age 12 and over and anyone who enjoys a good mystery. The story is worth the time.
January 17, 2016
Author: Lisa Orchard
Published by: Astraea Press
Age Recommend: YA
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:
"The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer" by Lisa Orchard was a wonderful suspense mystery read that you will find yourself having difficulties putting this novel down until you were finished this fast paced read.
The novel takes on the story of Sarah and Lacey's summer vacation in Harrisburg,Michigan... visiting their Aunt June and Uncle Walt. Soon the girls becomes friends with Jackie....then they played 'True or Dare' and Sarah is dared to go and knock on The Cat Lady's door....only thing is when Sarah does this she finds the Cat Lady's body....dead. Then it seems that this Officier Klonsky believes that these three girls are guilty of killing The Cat Lady! The girls then decide to form their own investigation to find out who did this to the Cat Lady.... to clear their names. The girls called their club: The Super Spies....and they start revealing some real well kept secrets....uncovering what is both very shocking and even heart breaking....which in turn puts the girls in much danger.....now to find out what danger I am referring to.... you will have to pick up this good read and find out because what this detective squad finds is a tragedy and I will now stop at this point.
The characters....Sarah, Lacey, Jackie, Scott, Uncle Walt, Aunt June, Chief Johnson,Officer Lon Klonsky, Officer Wilson, Detective Swift, Jim, Scoop Davis, Mrs. Parker,D.W. and even Lily (dog) were really very nice and likable making it very easy to get absorbed quickly into this novel.
"The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer" was a very good well written novel that you can get caught up in this adventure and will not put it down until the crime is solved. The author does a good job in showing the friendship that Sarah and Jackie had...even though for a short time of meeting....making it seem as though they had been friends for years and I believe the two sisters learned that "they don't have to be similar or even like the same
things to be close."
If you are in for a descriptive good novel...."the Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer" will be a good read and I would recommend for teens and even adults who are in for a good murder mystery read.
Published by: Astraea Press
Age Recommend: YA
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:
"The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer" by Lisa Orchard was a wonderful suspense mystery read that you will find yourself having difficulties putting this novel down until you were finished this fast paced read.
The novel takes on the story of Sarah and Lacey's summer vacation in Harrisburg,Michigan... visiting their Aunt June and Uncle Walt. Soon the girls becomes friends with Jackie....then they played 'True or Dare' and Sarah is dared to go and knock on The Cat Lady's door....only thing is when Sarah does this she finds the Cat Lady's body....dead. Then it seems that this Officier Klonsky believes that these three girls are guilty of killing The Cat Lady! The girls then decide to form their own investigation to find out who did this to the Cat Lady.... to clear their names. The girls called their club: The Super Spies....and they start revealing some real well kept secrets....uncovering what is both very shocking and even heart breaking....which in turn puts the girls in much danger.....now to find out what danger I am referring to.... you will have to pick up this good read and find out because what this detective squad finds is a tragedy and I will now stop at this point.
The characters....Sarah, Lacey, Jackie, Scott, Uncle Walt, Aunt June, Chief Johnson,Officer Lon Klonsky, Officer Wilson, Detective Swift, Jim, Scoop Davis, Mrs. Parker,D.W. and even Lily (dog) were really very nice and likable making it very easy to get absorbed quickly into this novel.
"The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer" was a very good well written novel that you can get caught up in this adventure and will not put it down until the crime is solved. The author does a good job in showing the friendship that Sarah and Jackie had...even though for a short time of meeting....making it seem as though they had been friends for years and I believe the two sisters learned that "they don't have to be similar or even like the same
things to be close."
If you are in for a descriptive good novel...."the Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer" will be a good read and I would recommend for teens and even adults who are in for a good murder mystery read.
May 16, 2012
Sarah was sure this summer would be the worst. She was stuck in a small town at her Aunt and Uncle's house with her younger sister. How much worse could it get? Sarah then meets Jackie. They become fast friends and suddenly the summer doesn't look too bad. While sitting under a tree and talking, the girls begin to play Truth or Dare. It's a dare that leads Sarah to discover the body of the cat lady. Jackie had told her some pretty wild tales about the cat lady. Sarah wasn't sure whether to believe them or not. While checking out the body, the girls are frightened by police sirens and run to the basement to hide. The police discover them easily enough and arrest them. After some time at the police station, the girls are let go, it's then Sarah decides she's got to find out who murdered the cat lady and why. They are pretty good detectives, even if their methods aren't always the best. Slowly, Sarah starts putting the puzzle together and she's certain she knows who the killer is, now to find out the why. The girls learn a valuable lesson. People aren't always what they seem.
This book is reminiscent of the Nancy Drew mysteries from when I was a little girl. A terrific puzzle, just enough curiosity to send them looking but not enough to cause real violence. Perfect for the young ladies in your life. The characters are adorable! You can just about see them walking down the street in any small town. Well written and just enough scary to make young ladies go on alert for the tiniest noises. You easily get caught up in the kids adventure and don't want to put the book down until they solve the crime. As an adult, this book is still a good read. I was pulled in right away. The curious kids remind us of when we were young. This one is a must for the young ladies on your list and I hope Lisa Orchard makes this into a series for girls.
I didn't find any issues.
I gave this one 5 out of 5 books because it's time there were more books, wholesome books, for girls!
This book is reminiscent of the Nancy Drew mysteries from when I was a little girl. A terrific puzzle, just enough curiosity to send them looking but not enough to cause real violence. Perfect for the young ladies in your life. The characters are adorable! You can just about see them walking down the street in any small town. Well written and just enough scary to make young ladies go on alert for the tiniest noises. You easily get caught up in the kids adventure and don't want to put the book down until they solve the crime. As an adult, this book is still a good read. I was pulled in right away. The curious kids remind us of when we were young. This one is a must for the young ladies on your list and I hope Lisa Orchard makes this into a series for girls.
I didn't find any issues.
I gave this one 5 out of 5 books because it's time there were more books, wholesome books, for girls!
August 17, 2024
Originally published in Night Owl Reads.
I was part of the book tour back in August and shortly after that, I was contacted by the author asking if I would like to read and review the book. Of course I said yes, although it took me a while to finish it with all the things that's happened in my life.
Anyway, the book, I enjoyed reading the adventures of the Super Spies. I have never read any Nancy Drew books (boohoo), but I have read one of those Sweet Valley mysteries and I do love watching crime shows such as CSI and Criminal minds. I felt like I was one of the super spies, looking for and following clues, and investigating the murder of the cat lady, putting the pieces of the puzzle together.
The super spies had a suspect that no adult would believe so they kept it to themselves and only divulge the information to people they can trust. They had to find proof that their suspect was the murderer and figure out what the motive behind the killing was.
At some point I couldn't help but think how dangerous what they're doing is. Adults in the book also tell them that and I wonder if there are kids in real life who are like these girls. They're dealing with murder, not a simple mystery of who stole what or something. I suggest parental guidance for children under 16.
This book is categorized as YA but there are times that I feel like it's for MG because of how the girls talk. While reading, Harriet the spy comes to mind and I have to remind myself to picture someone a bit older, like HSM teens. They also gave each other nicknames, Jackie would say girlfriend while Sarah would call her beanpole. Like Sarah, when she figured out how hard life must have been for the cat lady, I felt bad for her too. It's such a sad fate for the cat lady.
All in all, The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer was a great summer adventure full of fun, adventure, mystery, and danger. Thank you again to Lisa Orchard for giving me a copy and for waiting patiently for my review.
I was part of the book tour back in August and shortly after that, I was contacted by the author asking if I would like to read and review the book. Of course I said yes, although it took me a while to finish it with all the things that's happened in my life.
Anyway, the book, I enjoyed reading the adventures of the Super Spies. I have never read any Nancy Drew books (boohoo), but I have read one of those Sweet Valley mysteries and I do love watching crime shows such as CSI and Criminal minds. I felt like I was one of the super spies, looking for and following clues, and investigating the murder of the cat lady, putting the pieces of the puzzle together.
The super spies had a suspect that no adult would believe so they kept it to themselves and only divulge the information to people they can trust. They had to find proof that their suspect was the murderer and figure out what the motive behind the killing was.
At some point I couldn't help but think how dangerous what they're doing is. Adults in the book also tell them that and I wonder if there are kids in real life who are like these girls. They're dealing with murder, not a simple mystery of who stole what or something. I suggest parental guidance for children under 16.
This book is categorized as YA but there are times that I feel like it's for MG because of how the girls talk. While reading, Harriet the spy comes to mind and I have to remind myself to picture someone a bit older, like HSM teens. They also gave each other nicknames, Jackie would say girlfriend while Sarah would call her beanpole. Like Sarah, when she figured out how hard life must have been for the cat lady, I felt bad for her too. It's such a sad fate for the cat lady.
All in all, The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer was a great summer adventure full of fun, adventure, mystery, and danger. Thank you again to Lisa Orchard for giving me a copy and for waiting patiently for my review.
January 10, 2013
Sarah and her sister Lacey have been sent to their Aunt and Uncle's house for the summer. Sarah is not quite sure how she is going to fill in her time without her friends and their regular activities... That is until she meets and becomes fast friends with local girl Jackie. Deciding on a game of truth or dare, Sarah finds herself taking the dare of knocking on the door of the town's resident recluse Mrs Fedewa or 'The cat Lady" as the local kids call her. But the girls get much more than they bargained for when they discover the cat lady's very dead body on the floor of her house. Sarah, Jackie and Lacey are caught at the crime scene by the police and are taken to the station for questioning and it becomes apparent that one of the police officers, officer Klonsky believes that they are the one's who murdered her. With Sarah's urging, the girls decide to investigate the murder themselves and try to find the real killer before Officer Klonsky pins it on them.
And so The Super Spies are born!! In the process of trying to find and uncover clues, the girls embark on a summer filled with adventure, misadventure, the uncovering of secrets long buried, all the while cementing their newfound friendships.
Lisa Orchard has written a book bursting with mystery and suspense. The plot moves along at a steady and even pace with a nice build as we head into the climax. The writing is incredibly easy to read. I would say it's aimed at a much younger audience than what I'm used to reading but it was immensely enjoyable none the less and could be enjoyed quite easily by a wide range of ages.
The characters were all really fun and the friendships formed were one of the things that stood out the most for me. Sarah and Jackie had a real ease about their friendship.
Overall, The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer was a quick, immensely enjoyable read and I will be reading the next book in the series very soon!!
More reviews posted at YA Book Addict... http://youngadultbookaddict.blogspot....
And so The Super Spies are born!! In the process of trying to find and uncover clues, the girls embark on a summer filled with adventure, misadventure, the uncovering of secrets long buried, all the while cementing their newfound friendships.
Lisa Orchard has written a book bursting with mystery and suspense. The plot moves along at a steady and even pace with a nice build as we head into the climax. The writing is incredibly easy to read. I would say it's aimed at a much younger audience than what I'm used to reading but it was immensely enjoyable none the less and could be enjoyed quite easily by a wide range of ages.
The characters were all really fun and the friendships formed were one of the things that stood out the most for me. Sarah and Jackie had a real ease about their friendship.
Overall, The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer was a quick, immensely enjoyable read and I will be reading the next book in the series very soon!!
More reviews posted at YA Book Addict... http://youngadultbookaddict.blogspot....
August 9, 2013
This was the first book that I read by Author Lisa Orchard so I didn’t know what to expect. I always love digging into a book without knowing the authors style or what the book is going to be about. Will it be good or a waste of time (though no book is ever truly a waste of time)? This book was the first, a good fun read that I was glad to have had the chance to read!
I am quite a bit out of the typical age range for this book as its target audience would be the younger YA scene but let me tell you, anyone can read this and have a great time doing so! It’s a great little mystery filled with suspense that sucks you, the reader, right in from the first few pages. The characters are very likeable and easy to relate to. If you are an older reader, you may find these characters take you back to your own youth and you will find a bit of yourself in at least one of them.
I won’t tell you about the story as per my usual rules (you know, go read it for yourself, it’s worth it!!) but I will tell you that these four friends get together to solve a crime three of them accidently stumble upon. When they get their sleuthing on, the action picks up and you just can’t stop reading. There are parts you wish you could yell at the book and tell the characters, “Look! This is who that is!!” or “Look its right there!!” which I love to do. It really pulls you in and adds reader involvement into the book. I really had a lot of fun with this one!
I would recommend that the younger crowd definitely read this as I think they would really enjoy it a lot (maybe 6th grade and up? I’m terrible with ages) but adults should also take the plunge and read it because it’s really very well written and anyone can jump in there and enjoy this fun and entertaining mystery story! I am anxious to see what else is out there that this author has written!
I am quite a bit out of the typical age range for this book as its target audience would be the younger YA scene but let me tell you, anyone can read this and have a great time doing so! It’s a great little mystery filled with suspense that sucks you, the reader, right in from the first few pages. The characters are very likeable and easy to relate to. If you are an older reader, you may find these characters take you back to your own youth and you will find a bit of yourself in at least one of them.
I won’t tell you about the story as per my usual rules (you know, go read it for yourself, it’s worth it!!) but I will tell you that these four friends get together to solve a crime three of them accidently stumble upon. When they get their sleuthing on, the action picks up and you just can’t stop reading. There are parts you wish you could yell at the book and tell the characters, “Look! This is who that is!!” or “Look its right there!!” which I love to do. It really pulls you in and adds reader involvement into the book. I really had a lot of fun with this one!
I would recommend that the younger crowd definitely read this as I think they would really enjoy it a lot (maybe 6th grade and up? I’m terrible with ages) but adults should also take the plunge and read it because it’s really very well written and anyone can jump in there and enjoy this fun and entertaining mystery story! I am anxious to see what else is out there that this author has written!
May 9, 2013
The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer is a delightful YA mystery which has kept me entranced right from the very beginning. Yes, I know I hardly qualify as the target audience for this novel, but I forget my age when I read books. In many ways, The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer is like Harry Potter without wands.
The descriptions were perfect – not too much, but good enough to form a clear picture. I could see the ugly ‘face’ of the Cat Lady’s house, the willow with its drooping branches and the creek flowing nearby. The action moved smoothly on, increasing in pace again and again. Very good voice and clear narrative make this a clever choice for young readers.
Characterization was brilliant. I could picture Sarah and her younger sister – their voices distinct, despite their closeness – and Jackie, Sarah’s fashion-conscious friend. I’m not aware exactly how the details of their appearance came to settle in my brain, but I feel confident I could sketch them, if I could sketch at all. The ‘baddies’ were well described, too, and Sarah’s aunt and uncle were exactly what one would expect a protective aunt and uncle to be like.
I enjoyed the dialogues – clear, flowing, intelligent, and with a sprinkling of humour. This is the sort of book that would encourage any reluctant teen reader to pick up a book again. It’s engaging and fun. The protagonists don’t always follow the rules – what teen ever does? – but their moral compass is solid, and their intentions are always good. They are role models worth following, clever and resourceful, even when their knees shake in fright.
A delectable YA novel, full of fun and adventure, The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer fully deserves five shiny stars. Loved reading it. I wholeheartedly recommend it.
The descriptions were perfect – not too much, but good enough to form a clear picture. I could see the ugly ‘face’ of the Cat Lady’s house, the willow with its drooping branches and the creek flowing nearby. The action moved smoothly on, increasing in pace again and again. Very good voice and clear narrative make this a clever choice for young readers.
Characterization was brilliant. I could picture Sarah and her younger sister – their voices distinct, despite their closeness – and Jackie, Sarah’s fashion-conscious friend. I’m not aware exactly how the details of their appearance came to settle in my brain, but I feel confident I could sketch them, if I could sketch at all. The ‘baddies’ were well described, too, and Sarah’s aunt and uncle were exactly what one would expect a protective aunt and uncle to be like.
I enjoyed the dialogues – clear, flowing, intelligent, and with a sprinkling of humour. This is the sort of book that would encourage any reluctant teen reader to pick up a book again. It’s engaging and fun. The protagonists don’t always follow the rules – what teen ever does? – but their moral compass is solid, and their intentions are always good. They are role models worth following, clever and resourceful, even when their knees shake in fright.
A delectable YA novel, full of fun and adventure, The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer fully deserves five shiny stars. Loved reading it. I wholeheartedly recommend it.
September 15, 2013
I received a free copy of this book from the author as part of the launch of a new blog by authors of tween novels. Their blog may be found at www.emblazoners.com
This was a very interesting and enjoyable book about three girls in a small town who happen upon a dead body. No sooner do they make their discovery than the police show up and arrest the three of them. The arresting officer is convinced that they are the killers and vows that he will prove it and put them all behind bars. Convinced that he is out to get them, the girls begin investigating on their own only to find out that things are not at all as they may seem. In my opinion I'm not giving anything away by saying that they solve the crime and see that they real killer is brought to justice.
Although I found this to be an enjoyable story there were things about it that just didn't sit right with me. First, the author did not convince me that the arresting officer was "out to get" the girls. I'll admit that maybe he was a bit heavy handed, and overzealous, but I didn't feel that the case was made for the girls being convinced that he was trying to pin it on them. Second, I am a bit put off by mysteries wherein the ones solving the crime seem to have a complete disregard for the law and thus meddle in a police investigation.
All this being said, as a teacher of fifth graders, I will certainly recommend this book to them as I believe they will be much more forgiving in their assessment if they even notice at all any of the difficulties I experienced. A well written story for the tween reader. I hope the next installment in this series proves to be as enjoyable.
This was a very interesting and enjoyable book about three girls in a small town who happen upon a dead body. No sooner do they make their discovery than the police show up and arrest the three of them. The arresting officer is convinced that they are the killers and vows that he will prove it and put them all behind bars. Convinced that he is out to get them, the girls begin investigating on their own only to find out that things are not at all as they may seem. In my opinion I'm not giving anything away by saying that they solve the crime and see that they real killer is brought to justice.
Although I found this to be an enjoyable story there were things about it that just didn't sit right with me. First, the author did not convince me that the arresting officer was "out to get" the girls. I'll admit that maybe he was a bit heavy handed, and overzealous, but I didn't feel that the case was made for the girls being convinced that he was trying to pin it on them. Second, I am a bit put off by mysteries wherein the ones solving the crime seem to have a complete disregard for the law and thus meddle in a police investigation.
All this being said, as a teacher of fifth graders, I will certainly recommend this book to them as I believe they will be much more forgiving in their assessment if they even notice at all any of the difficulties I experienced. A well written story for the tween reader. I hope the next installment in this series proves to be as enjoyable.
January 4, 2014
Sarah Cole, her sister Lacey, and best friend Jackie Jenkins, were scared. Not only did they find that the woman in the neighborhood whom the kids call the “Cat Lady,” was murdered, but the cops found them WITH the body. After proving their innocence from the murder (which was hard, since Lacey had blood on her), the girls are free to go. Well, not really. A cop is sure they committed the crime and is out to get them. The girls decide they must prove they didn’t do it and solve the mystery. So, the Super Spies are formed.
The characters in this story are all very good and I enjoyed reading about them. Lacey seems like a nice girl, and Jackie was pretty funny. Sarah is a great female main character, though she can be quite headstrong. The plot was very well written and had the right amount of twists and turns. It kept me on the edge of my seat guessing what was going to happen next. The story had lots of action perfect for a murder mystery. The title threw me off, though. To me, it seemed like the Cat Lady was the killer, but maybe that’s just me. I think that the title, should be “The Cat Lady’s Killer” or a similar thing like that. The book is a YA book and the story had a little more violence than the usual middle grade books I read (well – it is a murder mystery). The girls find the body and there’s blood. It would have been nice to leave some of those details out and have the book be good for middle grade readers too, because the story itself could be good for 12+ (but that is my opinion).
*NOTE* I got a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The characters in this story are all very good and I enjoyed reading about them. Lacey seems like a nice girl, and Jackie was pretty funny. Sarah is a great female main character, though she can be quite headstrong. The plot was very well written and had the right amount of twists and turns. It kept me on the edge of my seat guessing what was going to happen next. The story had lots of action perfect for a murder mystery. The title threw me off, though. To me, it seemed like the Cat Lady was the killer, but maybe that’s just me. I think that the title, should be “The Cat Lady’s Killer” or a similar thing like that. The book is a YA book and the story had a little more violence than the usual middle grade books I read (well – it is a murder mystery). The girls find the body and there’s blood. It would have been nice to leave some of those details out and have the book be good for middle grade readers too, because the story itself could be good for 12+ (but that is my opinion).
*NOTE* I got a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 29, 2012
Sarah sees a hunched old woman shuffle painfully down the street. “That’s the Cat Lady,” she is told by a tall girl who just happens to be standing nearby. On this chance encounter, the tall girl, whose name is Jackie, tells Sarah all about the Cat Lady who everyone knows is a witch and lives in a haunted house. Although Sarah, a big city girl spending the summer in the small town, may not fully believe Jackie’s tale, she is drawn to the tall girl’s totally outgoing personality and an instant bond of friendship forms.
The very next day, the two girls meet up for a little game of truth or dare. Not in her wildest dreams does Sarah expect to find a dead body when she is dared to ring the witch’s door bell.
Before they know it, Jackie, Sarah, and Sarah’s sister who has been tagging along, are the lead suspects in the woman’s murder. Determined to clear their names, the trio form a detective squad to try to find the real killer. In the process, they uncover a tragedy thirty years in the making.
Despite the dark nature of the plot, this young adult book is a jolly good read. The interactions and dialogue of the three girls is light and entertaining. Their spirited support of each other helps them through the good, the bad, and the scary. However, the girls’ interactions with the police, both the good cops and the bad cops, don’t ring true. Still it is a good debut novel, suitable for tweens who like murder mysteries.
The very next day, the two girls meet up for a little game of truth or dare. Not in her wildest dreams does Sarah expect to find a dead body when she is dared to ring the witch’s door bell.
Before they know it, Jackie, Sarah, and Sarah’s sister who has been tagging along, are the lead suspects in the woman’s murder. Determined to clear their names, the trio form a detective squad to try to find the real killer. In the process, they uncover a tragedy thirty years in the making.
Despite the dark nature of the plot, this young adult book is a jolly good read. The interactions and dialogue of the three girls is light and entertaining. Their spirited support of each other helps them through the good, the bad, and the scary. However, the girls’ interactions with the police, both the good cops and the bad cops, don’t ring true. Still it is a good debut novel, suitable for tweens who like murder mysteries.
June 7, 2012
This is a very fun and frightening read, which is a hard balance to strike. Somehow, Lisa Orchard manages it well. From the first page, I was completely drawn into the tale of two sisters who are visiting their small-town relatives for summer vacation. Main character Sarah meets a kindred spirit, in the form of wise-cracking Jackie, very early. Kid sister Lacey is tagging along with them, as kid sisters are wont to do, when the girls stumble headlong into murder and crimes going back to three decades.
Through circumstances that aren't entirely their fault, the girls soon team up to form the Super Spies -- both out of a sense of rightness and for self-preservation. With the police and the killers after them, they're forced to solve the mystery on their own.
The story takes a turn when the murderer is revealed pretty quickly, and the mystery itself suddenly isn't murder but something much more. There are plenty of questions to ask -- namely, will the Super Spies be able to prove what they know?
Orchard does a brilliant job of describing the characters and the town itself, which becomes another character in the story. The interactions between characters are real and warm, and I like them all so much I know I'll continue reading Super Spies mysteries as long as Orchard writes them.
Through circumstances that aren't entirely their fault, the girls soon team up to form the Super Spies -- both out of a sense of rightness and for self-preservation. With the police and the killers after them, they're forced to solve the mystery on their own.
The story takes a turn when the murderer is revealed pretty quickly, and the mystery itself suddenly isn't murder but something much more. There are plenty of questions to ask -- namely, will the Super Spies be able to prove what they know?
Orchard does a brilliant job of describing the characters and the town itself, which becomes another character in the story. The interactions between characters are real and warm, and I like them all so much I know I'll continue reading Super Spies mysteries as long as Orchard writes them.
December 7, 2012
(Source: I won a digital copy of this book! Thanks to Jean Book Nerd and Lisa Orchard.)
Sarah and her sister Lacey are spending the summer with their aunt and uncle, when they meet Jackie.
Jackie quickly becomes their friend, and teaches them how to play ‘truth or dare’.
For Sarah’s dare, she must go and ring the doorbell of ‘the cat lady’ – an old lady who lives alone with her cats, who local kids call a witch.
Sarah is in for a shock though when she goes to the cat lady’s door and finds her lying dead on the floor, covered in blood.
Who killed the cat lady? Why did they want her dead? And can Sarah, Lacey, and Jackie discover who the killer is?
This was a fun read, which kind of reminded me of books that I read when I was younger like Nancy Drew and The Famous Five.
I thought the girls were sweet, and so determined to catch the killer, and their antics such as camping out in the back garden totally reminded me of when I used to do the same thing as a child.
I liked the storyline. I did guess what was going on fairly early on, but that was half of the fun – waiting to see if I was right! I would guess that this book is aimed at a younger audience, but it’s enjoyable for adults too. This would probably have been a 5 star for me when I was 11!
Overall; a fun, Nancy Drew-esque, mystery story.
6.5 out of 10.
Sarah and her sister Lacey are spending the summer with their aunt and uncle, when they meet Jackie.
Jackie quickly becomes their friend, and teaches them how to play ‘truth or dare’.
For Sarah’s dare, she must go and ring the doorbell of ‘the cat lady’ – an old lady who lives alone with her cats, who local kids call a witch.
Sarah is in for a shock though when she goes to the cat lady’s door and finds her lying dead on the floor, covered in blood.
Who killed the cat lady? Why did they want her dead? And can Sarah, Lacey, and Jackie discover who the killer is?
This was a fun read, which kind of reminded me of books that I read when I was younger like Nancy Drew and The Famous Five.
I thought the girls were sweet, and so determined to catch the killer, and their antics such as camping out in the back garden totally reminded me of when I used to do the same thing as a child.
I liked the storyline. I did guess what was going on fairly early on, but that was half of the fun – waiting to see if I was right! I would guess that this book is aimed at a younger audience, but it’s enjoyable for adults too. This would probably have been a 5 star for me when I was 11!
Overall; a fun, Nancy Drew-esque, mystery story.
6.5 out of 10.
October 1, 2012
I was given this book in return for an honest review. Sarah and her sister Lacey are new in town, staying with their aunt and uncle. Sarah meets the spunky Jackie and they become friends over a murder mystery. Everyone talks about the crazy cat lady, they think she's a witch, on a dare Sarah goes to her house. Unfortunately for Sarah, the cat lady has been murdered and a cop named Klosky thinks the three girls did it and swears he's going to prove it. They have no choice but to investigate and get into some nasty scrapes while doing so. They will end up inlisting the help of Lacey's friend Scott (who happens to be the police chiefs son) the librarian, an ex investigative reporter and an ex cop. What they find out changes how thy think of the cat lady and finding her killer becomes even more important. This crime may have links to a long ago crime and the kids think they know who did it. Will they be able to prove it before the killer comes after them? This is a really cute mystery, reminded me of my days reading Nancy Drew and Trixie Beldon. If you enjoy a good mystery with some kids that seem to always stumble into trouble, you will love this book.
June 14, 2012
A great YA murder mystery with quirky characters, surprises at many turns and fun through and through. It brought me back to my days of reading Hardy Boys and a few others in my young teen years (quite refreshing). Thank you for that Lisa :)
Sarah and her sister are visiting with their aunt and uncle for the Summer. Expecting a super boring time and getting everything but! Sarah and Lacey make a few friends, learn the lay of the land and all about the towns local weirdos to steer clear of. On a dare Sarah goes to the cat lady's house and rings the doorbell. After a few times of doing this with no result she peeks inside the house and what she sees shocks her. The three girls are now "The Super Spies" and they are out to solve the mystery of who would want to hurt "The Cat Lady". So many twists and turns come forth, but they only help them to find the culprit. The Super Spies are exactly what their name states... SUPER!
Sarah and her sister are visiting with their aunt and uncle for the Summer. Expecting a super boring time and getting everything but! Sarah and Lacey make a few friends, learn the lay of the land and all about the towns local weirdos to steer clear of. On a dare Sarah goes to the cat lady's house and rings the doorbell. After a few times of doing this with no result she peeks inside the house and what she sees shocks her. The three girls are now "The Super Spies" and they are out to solve the mystery of who would want to hurt "The Cat Lady". So many twists and turns come forth, but they only help them to find the culprit. The Super Spies are exactly what their name states... SUPER!
April 10, 2012
Well, Mrs. Lisa Cole Orchard, I finished your book. It was EXCELLENT! You see, I too share many fond memories of growing up in small-town Michigan and your references were spot-on! I caught myself eagerly reading, waiting for the next one… That is, of course, before I REALLY got sucked into the story of the Cole girls and their new friend, Jackie! What a great, well told story!
I thought I’d take a minute and tell you the trouble it ‘almost’ caused me though:
I sat down to start where I’d left off, approximately half-way through. The story was getting so good, that I just couldn’t walk away from it. I had to go to work; but, I had to finish the story. I kept turning to the clock… “Just a few more minutes, I know I can finish…” I barely made it to work on time; but, it was worth it!
- Congratulations on your first book! I can’t wait for the next one!
I thought I’d take a minute and tell you the trouble it ‘almost’ caused me though:
I sat down to start where I’d left off, approximately half-way through. The story was getting so good, that I just couldn’t walk away from it. I had to go to work; but, I had to finish the story. I kept turning to the clock… “Just a few more minutes, I know I can finish…” I barely made it to work on time; but, it was worth it!
- Congratulations on your first book! I can’t wait for the next one!
August 7, 2012
Synnposis
Fifteen year old Sarah and her younger sister Lacey have low expectations for their summer when they are sent to spend the summer in Michigan with their aunt and uncle. A boring summer turns exciting when Sarah befriends a local girl, Jackie, and while playing an innocent game of "truth or dare" they accidentally stumble upon the dead body of an old recluse nicknamed "the Cat Lady" by local children.
Accused of committing the murder, Sarah, Lacey, and Jackie must prove who really killed the "Cat Lady" before they end up being proven guilty by local cops.
Review
The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer is a captivating, suspenseful mystery that kept the reader on ther toes. Easy and quick to read, the Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer is a great crime solving novel. Read more of my reviews at hernosestuckinsomebook.blogspot.com
July 11, 2012
Sarah Cole and her sister are visiting their uncle and aunt in a small town for the summer. Sarah meets a skinny girl named Jackie right away, and they get along famously. In the midst of getting to know each other they stumble on the body of the local old lady recluse who has been murdered. The rest of the book unfolds with interesting twists and a second mystery is uncovered by the girls.
These characters were likable, and the villain totally scary. It started a little slowly, but the plot developed nicely and ended up having several loose ends tied up neatly.
This is a good book for a middle school readership. I liked it, and would read more by Lisa Orchard.
(Review by junehildegarde)
These characters were likable, and the villain totally scary. It started a little slowly, but the plot developed nicely and ended up having several loose ends tied up neatly.
This is a good book for a middle school readership. I liked it, and would read more by Lisa Orchard.
(Review by junehildegarde)
August 8, 2014
Sarah Cole and her sister Lacey are spending the summer with their Aunt and Uncle in a small town. This is where Sarah meets and befriends Jackie, a local girl, who is all too happy to start telling the sisters stories of The Cat Lady who she believes to be a witch. anyway The Cat Lady is mysteriously murder and one of the local police detectives on the case is trying to blame the murder of the cat lady on the girl's. To save themselves from prison for a crime their didn't commit, they decide to create the Super Spies and begin to find out who really killed the Cat Lady.
This book is a brilliant YA novel and the twists in the story will keep you on the edge of your seat!
A well deserved 5 stars and I look forward to the next Super Spies book.
reviewed by Laura
This book is a brilliant YA novel and the twists in the story will keep you on the edge of your seat!
A well deserved 5 stars and I look forward to the next Super Spies book.
reviewed by Laura
May 25, 2013
This is a fantastic novel for young adults. It’s clean – devoid of cussing and sex, which the YA genre is flooded with these days – while still maintaining a fast paced, interesting storyline. The characters were fairly well-developed and likeable, even if some of their decisions might make older readers cringe (like unwittingly contaminating a crime scene, perhaps?). As someone who enjoyed The Boxcar Children and Nancy Drew series when I was younger, I found this to be a highly enjoyable and satisfying tale of mystery and friendship. Definitely worth reading!
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for my honest review.
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for my honest review.
June 1, 2013
Super Spies is a new series of books about a couple of young super sleuths meddling about, tampering in police evidence, getting into dangerous situations, oh and having loads of fun doing it!
A murder breaks out in town while Sarah and Lacey spend the summer with their aunt and uncle and the girls along with some new friends they made get all tangled into the mess and have to work together to clear themselves before a murder wrap gets pinned on them!
I loved this book! It kinda reminds me of a mix up between Nancy Drew and Scooby Doo, both of which I LOVE!
A murder breaks out in town while Sarah and Lacey spend the summer with their aunt and uncle and the girls along with some new friends they made get all tangled into the mess and have to work together to clear themselves before a murder wrap gets pinned on them!
I loved this book! It kinda reminds me of a mix up between Nancy Drew and Scooby Doo, both of which I LOVE!
June 2, 2016
***3 1/2 stars***
For the age this book is written for, I thought it was well written and interesting enough to keep a young lady's attention.
The girls get into enough dangerous situations that you'll cringe with fear and gasp with relief when they are safe again. :) Sarah can be a little on the sassy side but the three girls get along well enough and there'll be some laughs at some of their interactions.
*Thanks to SLBTours and the author for a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
For the age this book is written for, I thought it was well written and interesting enough to keep a young lady's attention.
The girls get into enough dangerous situations that you'll cringe with fear and gasp with relief when they are safe again. :) Sarah can be a little on the sassy side but the three girls get along well enough and there'll be some laughs at some of their interactions.
*Thanks to SLBTours and the author for a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
June 9, 2012
Nice little book geared towards a teenage audience. When Sarah and her friends are accused of killing the Cat Lady, they have to defend themselves so they investigate to find who is the real killer.
The story is well built and the suspense gets quite high.
However, I was a bit annoyed by some incoherences. Some things they did, they should have known you can't do that. Especially when you are a fan of investigation programs.
Because of that, I give it a 3.5 instead of a 4.
The story is well built and the suspense gets quite high.
However, I was a bit annoyed by some incoherences. Some things they did, they should have known you can't do that. Especially when you are a fan of investigation programs.
Because of that, I give it a 3.5 instead of a 4.
November 3, 2012
The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer captured my entire interest with just it's blurb! It's an amazingly addictive novel that will keep you interested to read on! I loved it and it's going right up to the very top with my favourite books!
The way the author writes makes readers not just wanting to read more but needing to read more and I love when I get a book like that! :) Lisa Orchard is a wonderful author! Ones whose novels I will definitely be reading again!
The way the author writes makes readers not just wanting to read more but needing to read more and I love when I get a book like that! :) Lisa Orchard is a wonderful author! Ones whose novels I will definitely be reading again!
May 24, 2013
This reminded me of the mysteries I used to read when I was younger, but updated for today's younger adults. The mystery was perfect, and Orchard's writing was excellent. The only part that confused me was when exactly this took place over the summer and over how long it took place, because in some spots it seems fast, but then they would talk like it had been weeks.
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