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Super Spies #2
The Super Spies and the High School Bomber
This book opens in a small town in Michigan where Sarah Cole and her sister Lacey are now living with their Aunt and Uncle. Still reeling from the fact her parents have disappeared, Sarah starts the school year with her new friend Jackie Jenkins. When Sarah learns the school has been bombed, she’s filled with dread. Uncle Walt is a teacher, and he was in the school when the bomb exploded. Taking matters into her own hands, Sarah decides to search for him. The rest of the Super Spies are right behind her. When a fireman chases them away from the school, Sarah becomes suspicious. She decides to investigate. The FBI arrives on the scene. Sarah realizes this bombing could have even bigger implications. Searching for the bombers, Sarah is introduced to the world of terrorism. She fears that the bombing and her parents’ disappearance are connected and terrorists are involved. To make matters worse, the bombers are determined to finish the job. Can the Super Spies find the bombers before it’s too late?
366 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 25, 2012
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45 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
September 27, 2012
The Super Spies are back in another action packed mystery, one that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. It was really hard to put this book down because I wanted to keep reading to find out what would happen next.
One of the big mysteries in The Super Spies and the High School Bomber is just who the intended target of the bomb was. The bomb went off during a high school faculty meeting, which means that any of the staff members could have been the intended target – and Sarah and Lacey’s (both sisters and Super Spies) Uncle Walt is a teacher at the high school and was at the faculty meeting when the bomb went off. Could Uncle Walt have been the intended target? Sarah and Lacey have their suspicions, as this is not the first family tragedy to strike the Cole family.
Sarah and Lacey are now living with their Aunt June and Uncle Walt, as their parents disappeared while on vacation. Is there a connection between their parents’ disappearance and Uncle Walt’s high school being bombed? The FBI seems to think so.
As the Super Spies investigate the bombing, clues are revealed putting them in danger. The more they investigate the more unsure Sarah is about whether Uncle Walt is the intended target. With the information that she and the other Super Spies have gathered they are able to piece together that the intended target is now a patient at the hospital – the hospital where Uncle Walt is.
Throughout the novel there were so many questions, so many theories and possibilities that I was engrossed in the story from beginning to end.
As well as all the Super Spies (Sarah, Lacey, Jackie, and Scott) and Aunt June and Uncle Walt returning for the second book in the Super Spies series, other characters from the first book make a return appearance, including Scott’s dad (the Chief of Police) and Scoop. All have an important role in the story.
I really enjoy the friendship between Sarah and Jackie. They have such a connection; they are so loyal to each other. I also enjoyed reading about the blossoming romance between Lacey and Scott. It added a lovely innocence and sweetness to the story.
Sarah is the character that drives the story, as it is often her impatience or lack of ability to listen to authority that gets the Super Spies in trouble. However, what she does, she does for the right reasons. She wants to help; she wants to get justice for the victims. I was, at times, frustrated with Sarah, in regards to how she treated her younger sister, Lacey. She can sometimes be a little impatient with her sister – a little too harsh. To Sarah’s credit, she is trying with her sister – trying to make an effort to include her more. The sisters’ bond is growing, and I hope it continues to grow and strengthen.
One of my favourite things about the novel is the meetings that the Super Spies have at the local restaurant, Hinkle’s. I love the conversations that they have there, and I love seeing what they will order. They order some yummy sounding meals.
Everything about the novel captured my attention. It’s a fantastic mystery/detective novel, perfect for middle school readers right through to young adults.
Author Lisa Orchard’s writing is descriptive and flows smoothly, creating an intriguing and well developed story, with the perfect balance of mystery, action, adventure, and friendship.
A highly enjoyable read.
4.5/5
*Thank you to Lisa Orchard for providing me with a copy of The Super Spies and the High School Bomber to review.
Review originally posted at Treasured Tales for Young Adults.
One of the big mysteries in The Super Spies and the High School Bomber is just who the intended target of the bomb was. The bomb went off during a high school faculty meeting, which means that any of the staff members could have been the intended target – and Sarah and Lacey’s (both sisters and Super Spies) Uncle Walt is a teacher at the high school and was at the faculty meeting when the bomb went off. Could Uncle Walt have been the intended target? Sarah and Lacey have their suspicions, as this is not the first family tragedy to strike the Cole family.
Sarah and Lacey are now living with their Aunt June and Uncle Walt, as their parents disappeared while on vacation. Is there a connection between their parents’ disappearance and Uncle Walt’s high school being bombed? The FBI seems to think so.
As the Super Spies investigate the bombing, clues are revealed putting them in danger. The more they investigate the more unsure Sarah is about whether Uncle Walt is the intended target. With the information that she and the other Super Spies have gathered they are able to piece together that the intended target is now a patient at the hospital – the hospital where Uncle Walt is.
Throughout the novel there were so many questions, so many theories and possibilities that I was engrossed in the story from beginning to end.
As well as all the Super Spies (Sarah, Lacey, Jackie, and Scott) and Aunt June and Uncle Walt returning for the second book in the Super Spies series, other characters from the first book make a return appearance, including Scott’s dad (the Chief of Police) and Scoop. All have an important role in the story.
I really enjoy the friendship between Sarah and Jackie. They have such a connection; they are so loyal to each other. I also enjoyed reading about the blossoming romance between Lacey and Scott. It added a lovely innocence and sweetness to the story.
Sarah is the character that drives the story, as it is often her impatience or lack of ability to listen to authority that gets the Super Spies in trouble. However, what she does, she does for the right reasons. She wants to help; she wants to get justice for the victims. I was, at times, frustrated with Sarah, in regards to how she treated her younger sister, Lacey. She can sometimes be a little impatient with her sister – a little too harsh. To Sarah’s credit, she is trying with her sister – trying to make an effort to include her more. The sisters’ bond is growing, and I hope it continues to grow and strengthen.
One of my favourite things about the novel is the meetings that the Super Spies have at the local restaurant, Hinkle’s. I love the conversations that they have there, and I love seeing what they will order. They order some yummy sounding meals.
Everything about the novel captured my attention. It’s a fantastic mystery/detective novel, perfect for middle school readers right through to young adults.
Author Lisa Orchard’s writing is descriptive and flows smoothly, creating an intriguing and well developed story, with the perfect balance of mystery, action, adventure, and friendship.
A highly enjoyable read.
4.5/5
*Thank you to Lisa Orchard for providing me with a copy of The Super Spies and the High School Bomber to review.
Review originally posted at Treasured Tales for Young Adults.
March 17, 2013
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to author Lisa Orchard.)
This is book 2 in the ‘Super Spies’ series, but may be read as a stand-alone novel.
This book starts off with a bang when a bomb explodes at the Super Spies high-school. Fortunately the pupils aren’t at school that day, but the teachers are.
Sarah and Lacey’s Uncle Walt is a teacher at the high school though, and they fear he may have been hurt in the blast. What was the cause of the explosion though? Was it really a bomb? And why would anyone want to bomb the high school?
Sarah, Lacey, Jackie, and Scott set out to investigate once again, and also to try and find out what happened to Uncle Walt. With the appearance of a strange man at the crime scene, followed by an overheard conversation, the Super Spies know they are onto something, and go that extra mile to try and solve the crime.
Who are the high-school bombers? Why did they set the bomb? And are there more surprises in store?
This is a really great little middle-grade mystery novel, think ‘the famous five’, or ‘the secret seven’, but a modern version!
The Super Spies are once again investigating a crime, and they’re not going to stop until they unravel the mystery. Sarah is focused on what she wants to find out, and doesn’t always think of the consequences of her actions. Lacey is a little more level-headed, and tries to tell Sarah when she’s about to get in trouble, and Jackie does exactly the opposite and encourages Sarah!
The three girls work well together for the most part, and Scott is their go-to man when the police need to be involved because his dad is the police chief. The four are all good friends though, and it’s clear that they look out for each other.
I have to say that the girls do take some risks though; sneaking around in the middle of night, going to bomb sites, and even trying to follow the people who they thought were the bombers! While they thought they were just investigating a crime, I was glad that this was fiction because they did get into some risky situations! Sometimes their investigating was needed though.
The storyline was interesting, and it wasn’t easy to guess who the bombers were or what their reasons were for bombing the school. There were quite a lot of twists and turns in the story, and the girls put a lot of effort into working out the mystery. I’m not sure they would really get away with a lot of the things they did, such as sneaking onto a bomb site in real life (at least I hope they wouldn’t!), but they made it work! The girls find out lots of cool stuff from the police and FBI though, and even make a possible step in finding out what happened to Sarah and Lacey’s parents.
Overall; a great little mystery novel for younger teens. Kids aged 8 -15 would probably love this.
6.5 out of 10.
This is book 2 in the ‘Super Spies’ series, but may be read as a stand-alone novel.
This book starts off with a bang when a bomb explodes at the Super Spies high-school. Fortunately the pupils aren’t at school that day, but the teachers are.
Sarah and Lacey’s Uncle Walt is a teacher at the high school though, and they fear he may have been hurt in the blast. What was the cause of the explosion though? Was it really a bomb? And why would anyone want to bomb the high school?
Sarah, Lacey, Jackie, and Scott set out to investigate once again, and also to try and find out what happened to Uncle Walt. With the appearance of a strange man at the crime scene, followed by an overheard conversation, the Super Spies know they are onto something, and go that extra mile to try and solve the crime.
Who are the high-school bombers? Why did they set the bomb? And are there more surprises in store?
This is a really great little middle-grade mystery novel, think ‘the famous five’, or ‘the secret seven’, but a modern version!
The Super Spies are once again investigating a crime, and they’re not going to stop until they unravel the mystery. Sarah is focused on what she wants to find out, and doesn’t always think of the consequences of her actions. Lacey is a little more level-headed, and tries to tell Sarah when she’s about to get in trouble, and Jackie does exactly the opposite and encourages Sarah!
The three girls work well together for the most part, and Scott is their go-to man when the police need to be involved because his dad is the police chief. The four are all good friends though, and it’s clear that they look out for each other.
I have to say that the girls do take some risks though; sneaking around in the middle of night, going to bomb sites, and even trying to follow the people who they thought were the bombers! While they thought they were just investigating a crime, I was glad that this was fiction because they did get into some risky situations! Sometimes their investigating was needed though.
The storyline was interesting, and it wasn’t easy to guess who the bombers were or what their reasons were for bombing the school. There were quite a lot of twists and turns in the story, and the girls put a lot of effort into working out the mystery. I’m not sure they would really get away with a lot of the things they did, such as sneaking onto a bomb site in real life (at least I hope they wouldn’t!), but they made it work! The girls find out lots of cool stuff from the police and FBI though, and even make a possible step in finding out what happened to Sarah and Lacey’s parents.
Overall; a great little mystery novel for younger teens. Kids aged 8 -15 would probably love this.
6.5 out of 10.
February 11, 2013
This story actually began with an explosion…
Sarah was shocked and physically hurt from the explosion but when the news about the bombing got spread around town, everyone felt panicked. People were injured and no one, except the bomber, knew why the school or someone inside the school was the target. Would the Super Spies be able to solve this mystery before more people got hurt?
The beginning of the story was a page-turner. No one really knew much of anything about what was going on and when something this devastating happened in a small town, everybody seemed to be affected. Sarah couldn’t help but feel angry. Why would someone do something so evil to those who were at school when the explosion went off? Nothing made sense to her and she felt determined that she’d uncover the truth.
I could understand why Sarah felt angry and scared most of the time. The situation was traumatic and with people whom she cared lying unconscious in the hospital, she didn’t really have any grown-ups to help her sort through her emotions. It wasn’t easy for me to see her so angry and scared but I must say I was a little uncomfortable when those around her weren’t sensitive enough to notice that she wasn’t entirely her normal self.
The mystery seemed baffling. The bomber certainly didn’t seem to have thought through the whole situation before bombing the school and while I felt bad about his so-called suffering, I wondered why he had such a screwed-up view about people, especially the ones who seemed to have an authority over him. In the end, I felt glad that those who were in the hospital were no longer in danger but I doubted that Sarah would feel life the same way as before.
Fairly entertaining with a good storyline, The Super Spies and The High School Bomber is a nice sequel to The Super Spies and The Cat Lady Killer. My only complaint is that the characters drink way too much soda. Wouldn’t you say it’s a bit much when the characters keep fetching soda from their refrigerator whenever they’re home and order soda every time when they’re at a diner? Other than that, I’m happy to say that my experience with the Super Spies is affirmative.
--
Originally posted on Leisure Reads.
A copy of the book was provided by author for review purposes.
Sarah was shocked and physically hurt from the explosion but when the news about the bombing got spread around town, everyone felt panicked. People were injured and no one, except the bomber, knew why the school or someone inside the school was the target. Would the Super Spies be able to solve this mystery before more people got hurt?
The beginning of the story was a page-turner. No one really knew much of anything about what was going on and when something this devastating happened in a small town, everybody seemed to be affected. Sarah couldn’t help but feel angry. Why would someone do something so evil to those who were at school when the explosion went off? Nothing made sense to her and she felt determined that she’d uncover the truth.
I could understand why Sarah felt angry and scared most of the time. The situation was traumatic and with people whom she cared lying unconscious in the hospital, she didn’t really have any grown-ups to help her sort through her emotions. It wasn’t easy for me to see her so angry and scared but I must say I was a little uncomfortable when those around her weren’t sensitive enough to notice that she wasn’t entirely her normal self.
The mystery seemed baffling. The bomber certainly didn’t seem to have thought through the whole situation before bombing the school and while I felt bad about his so-called suffering, I wondered why he had such a screwed-up view about people, especially the ones who seemed to have an authority over him. In the end, I felt glad that those who were in the hospital were no longer in danger but I doubted that Sarah would feel life the same way as before.
Fairly entertaining with a good storyline, The Super Spies and The High School Bomber is a nice sequel to The Super Spies and The Cat Lady Killer. My only complaint is that the characters drink way too much soda. Wouldn’t you say it’s a bit much when the characters keep fetching soda from their refrigerator whenever they’re home and order soda every time when they’re at a diner? Other than that, I’m happy to say that my experience with the Super Spies is affirmative.
--
Originally posted on Leisure Reads.
A copy of the book was provided by author for review purposes.
May 17, 2013
If you thought The Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer was a lovely read, wait until you read The Super Spies and the High School Bomber. As YA mysteries go, you can’t do much better.
In this new instalment of the Spies’ adventures, things are a bit darker and much more serious. Sarah and Lacey’s parents seem to have disappeared in mysterious circumstances, so they’re stuck at their aunt and uncle’s for the time being. When a bomb explodes during a teachers’ meeting at the high school, of course our heroes feel compelled to investigate.
In a way, the plot splits into two possible mysteries, only one of which is solved in this book. I have a feeling the other will form the subject of a future book, and yes, I am resigned to waiting patiently until I can read that one, too. Hurry up and write, Lisa Orchard, I need to find out what happened there.
The writing style is just as easy to follow, and the dialogues are so much fun. Because of the seriousness of the crime, the FBI gets involved in the investigation, and Sarah puts her newly acquired negotiating and people skills to the test by forging a relationship with the fibbies.
There’s more action, more danger and more pressure for the Spies to get to the end of this mystery. The pacing is brilliant. The only thing that I would have expected was to find out what happened with the missing parents, but that would have made this book way too long. I like the way the Spies are being introduced to other people’s emotions and the knowledge and understanding that comes from being aware of a different perspective on life. That is a part of every person’s development at some point in their existence, and it’s beautifully done here.
A very good choice for young adults, even for those not in their teens yet. There’s enough variety in vocabulary use to encourage a young person’s development without making the story hard to understand. The overall package is a very well put-together novel, full of action and adventure, and modern enough to be appealing to young readers. A very well-deserved five stars from me, and a wholehearted recommendation.
In this new instalment of the Spies’ adventures, things are a bit darker and much more serious. Sarah and Lacey’s parents seem to have disappeared in mysterious circumstances, so they’re stuck at their aunt and uncle’s for the time being. When a bomb explodes during a teachers’ meeting at the high school, of course our heroes feel compelled to investigate.
In a way, the plot splits into two possible mysteries, only one of which is solved in this book. I have a feeling the other will form the subject of a future book, and yes, I am resigned to waiting patiently until I can read that one, too. Hurry up and write, Lisa Orchard, I need to find out what happened there.
The writing style is just as easy to follow, and the dialogues are so much fun. Because of the seriousness of the crime, the FBI gets involved in the investigation, and Sarah puts her newly acquired negotiating and people skills to the test by forging a relationship with the fibbies.
There’s more action, more danger and more pressure for the Spies to get to the end of this mystery. The pacing is brilliant. The only thing that I would have expected was to find out what happened with the missing parents, but that would have made this book way too long. I like the way the Spies are being introduced to other people’s emotions and the knowledge and understanding that comes from being aware of a different perspective on life. That is a part of every person’s development at some point in their existence, and it’s beautifully done here.
A very good choice for young adults, even for those not in their teens yet. There’s enough variety in vocabulary use to encourage a young person’s development without making the story hard to understand. The overall package is a very well put-together novel, full of action and adventure, and modern enough to be appealing to young readers. A very well-deserved five stars from me, and a wholehearted recommendation.
August 16, 2012
The Super Spies are at it again! Sarah and Lacey Cole's day started more unusual than most. Sarah was thrown against the wall and received several cuts to her body. What was it? Sarah knew it was an explosion but just what caused that? She would soon find out, as would the rest of the town a bomb had gone off at the local high school during a faculty meeting. As clean up began, a second bomb went off. Uncle Walt was at that faculty meeting and Sarah couldn't reach him on the phone. The Super Spies meet at the willow tree to try to put the information together. Sarah decides they should investigate and the case really begins. Putting clues together and digging up information to help the police puts the Super Spies in danger as usual but Sarah and the others won't stop. Sarah begins to think maybe this bombing and her parents disappearance are connected. But why and how? Leave it to the Super Spies to find out things the police would take weeks to learn. Now to catch that bomber before he hurts more people.
Once again Lisa Orchard has hit the nail square on the head! This series of books is perfect for girls or boys but young girls who love mysteries will devour these books. They remind me of an updated Nancy Drew-type of mystery. There is danger, but nothing so bad it would keep girls from enjoying it. The Super Spies retain their charm and personalities in this second book, something that can be difficult to achieve. The story is another one that could be ripped from the headlines. As a matter of fact, it could be a parallel story to the bombing that happened in the little town where I live. The high school here was bombed, but students were in class at the time and it was devastating. Read about the Super Spies and introduce the young lady in your life to a series she'll remember for years to come.
I found no issues.
I gave this one 5 out of 5 books because I love how true to the original story and characters Lisa Orchard kept this one.
Once again Lisa Orchard has hit the nail square on the head! This series of books is perfect for girls or boys but young girls who love mysteries will devour these books. They remind me of an updated Nancy Drew-type of mystery. There is danger, but nothing so bad it would keep girls from enjoying it. The Super Spies retain their charm and personalities in this second book, something that can be difficult to achieve. The story is another one that could be ripped from the headlines. As a matter of fact, it could be a parallel story to the bombing that happened in the little town where I live. The high school here was bombed, but students were in class at the time and it was devastating. Read about the Super Spies and introduce the young lady in your life to a series she'll remember for years to come.
I found no issues.
I gave this one 5 out of 5 books because I love how true to the original story and characters Lisa Orchard kept this one.
August 14, 2012
Review of Super Spies and the High School Bomber
By Lisa Orchard
9781621350637
http://blogspot.us5.list-manage1.com/...
In this second entry in the “Super Spies” YA series, sequel to “Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer,” sisters Sarah and Lacey Cole, grieving their parents’ recent disappearance, supposedly on a cruise ship off Florida, find they have even more trouble. Living with their aunt and uncle, the new school year is about to begin, when the high school is bombed during a faculty meeting, and their Uncle Walt is one of the missing. Together with Lacey’s heartthrob Scott, son of the city’s Chief of Police, and Sarah’s best friend Jackie, the “Super Spies” four go into action, chasing the bombers, looking for the mysterious fireman who warned them away and then disappeared into the woods, and enlisting the FBI agents on site to find the bomber AND triangulate their parents’ cell phones to discover their last location before they went missing. There’s not a dull moment in this clean YA novel (no profanity, no overt sensuality), just tons of action, adventure, good fashion sense, sibling rivalry and sibling attachment, good friends-and a very cooperative local police department and FBI. I think even slightly younger readers (i.e., middle graders) could enjoy this one too, as it reminds me of the original Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew mysteries, with strong heroines who are feisty and plucky and never back down. I anticipate the next in the series.
By Lisa Orchard
9781621350637
http://blogspot.us5.list-manage1.com/...
In this second entry in the “Super Spies” YA series, sequel to “Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer,” sisters Sarah and Lacey Cole, grieving their parents’ recent disappearance, supposedly on a cruise ship off Florida, find they have even more trouble. Living with their aunt and uncle, the new school year is about to begin, when the high school is bombed during a faculty meeting, and their Uncle Walt is one of the missing. Together with Lacey’s heartthrob Scott, son of the city’s Chief of Police, and Sarah’s best friend Jackie, the “Super Spies” four go into action, chasing the bombers, looking for the mysterious fireman who warned them away and then disappeared into the woods, and enlisting the FBI agents on site to find the bomber AND triangulate their parents’ cell phones to discover their last location before they went missing. There’s not a dull moment in this clean YA novel (no profanity, no overt sensuality), just tons of action, adventure, good fashion sense, sibling rivalry and sibling attachment, good friends-and a very cooperative local police department and FBI. I think even slightly younger readers (i.e., middle graders) could enjoy this one too, as it reminds me of the original Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew mysteries, with strong heroines who are feisty and plucky and never back down. I anticipate the next in the series.
October 2, 2012
I was given this book in return for an honest review. The Superspies are back in another adventure. This time a bomb has gone off at a Faculty meeting where Uncle Walt is a teacher in attendance. Of course the Superspies have to investigate. Sarah and Lacey came to stay with Uncle Walt and thei aunt while their parents are on vacation, unfortunately, their parents have disapeared. The FBI is investigating, not only the bombing, but the disapearance as well and think they may be connected. The Superspies consist of, sisters Lacey and Sarah, Sarah's friend Jackie, and Lacey's crush Scott(who is the police chiefs son) They need to figure out who the target of the bomb was, is it connected to their parents, who did it, and is he going to strike again. What's so fun about this book is that these kid are seemingly on the wrong track, making rash judgements with little information, however they are usually right. They are constantly getting into some kind of scrape or trouble. They have sources in adults that help them along the way like Scoop, the retired investigative reporter. Reminucent of the old Nancy Drew and Trixie Beldon novels, only updated. This book is going to be a great addition to the mystery loving kids and adults of today. You will alternate between wanting to smack them for putting themselves in danger and wanting to hug them for being so dedicated to righting a wrong. Loved it.
September 23, 2012
REVIEW BY: Arianna, age 9 years, 9 months
In the beginning, Sarah and Lacy live with their aunt and uncle. The girls have their first day of school. Their uncle, who is a school teacher, is at the school for a meeting when a bomb goes off. Throughout the story, Sarah, Lacy, and their two best friends, Scott and Jackie try to find the person who set off the bomb. I give this book 5 out 5 stars. I think that anyone who likes action, mystery, and drama will enjoy this book so much that they will want to read it over and over again. This is a great read for 3-6 grade.
In the beginning, Sarah and Lacy live with their aunt and uncle. The girls have their first day of school. Their uncle, who is a school teacher, is at the school for a meeting when a bomb goes off. Throughout the story, Sarah, Lacy, and their two best friends, Scott and Jackie try to find the person who set off the bomb. I give this book 5 out 5 stars. I think that anyone who likes action, mystery, and drama will enjoy this book so much that they will want to read it over and over again. This is a great read for 3-6 grade.
August 22, 2012
The Super Spies and The high school bomber
First of all, thanks to Lisa Orchard for allowing me to read and review her book!
First book to now-Sarah and Lacey Cole are living with their aunt and uncle while their parents are on Vacation. But their parents have gone missing and no one seems to know what's going on. The there is a bombing at the high school and while investigating the scene the Super Spies encounter a man who is not at all what he seems.
First impressions-Having had the chance to read the first book, my expectations were a little different then I would normally have. I was actually " blown" out of the water. This book starts with a bang!
Characters-to be perfectly honest, I have a really hard time with the characters in this book. It's like living with two crazy girls, dealing with the mild aunt and uncle for parents, and having the anxious friends.
Sarah is...well, she must have been thought nothing. I get why she does things and her reasons for them BUT-a big but-the things she does are not appropriate! She acts without thinking of safety and not just her own but others. She breaks the law and pays no regard to the things that would- like in the last book-get her into serious dodo. And in this book as well. She does some changing but it doesn't change her character to much.
The writing-in Lisa's first book, her writing was slightly choppy, and not greatly put together. In this book things are flowing and connecting. It was a fast read and easy.
The story-I have to hand it to Lisa. She writes one heck of a mystery novel. The story and plot were fast paced and enjoyable.
So overall-I liked the story, the writing and saw that Lisa has grown a lot with this novel. I intensely disliked Sarah.
Recommend for-8-16years of age. This is more of an adult read. There's kidnapping and bombs and some casualties but mostly it age appropriate for anyone above the age of 8.
Cliff hanger-there is a mild cliff hanger but more of a set up to the next book so don't worry about that. I would recommend that you read the first one first!
Excerpt: The trees stood tall and silent. Their leaves were starting to change color. If she had been there for any other reason, she would have stopped and admired their beauty. Sarah shivered in the stillness and peered around her. It seemed like the hardwoods watched her, and a chill ran down her spine.
First of all, thanks to Lisa Orchard for allowing me to read and review her book!
First book to now-Sarah and Lacey Cole are living with their aunt and uncle while their parents are on Vacation. But their parents have gone missing and no one seems to know what's going on. The there is a bombing at the high school and while investigating the scene the Super Spies encounter a man who is not at all what he seems.
First impressions-Having had the chance to read the first book, my expectations were a little different then I would normally have. I was actually " blown" out of the water. This book starts with a bang!
Characters-to be perfectly honest, I have a really hard time with the characters in this book. It's like living with two crazy girls, dealing with the mild aunt and uncle for parents, and having the anxious friends.
Sarah is...well, she must have been thought nothing. I get why she does things and her reasons for them BUT-a big but-the things she does are not appropriate! She acts without thinking of safety and not just her own but others. She breaks the law and pays no regard to the things that would- like in the last book-get her into serious dodo. And in this book as well. She does some changing but it doesn't change her character to much.
The writing-in Lisa's first book, her writing was slightly choppy, and not greatly put together. In this book things are flowing and connecting. It was a fast read and easy.
The story-I have to hand it to Lisa. She writes one heck of a mystery novel. The story and plot were fast paced and enjoyable.
So overall-I liked the story, the writing and saw that Lisa has grown a lot with this novel. I intensely disliked Sarah.
Recommend for-8-16years of age. This is more of an adult read. There's kidnapping and bombs and some casualties but mostly it age appropriate for anyone above the age of 8.
Cliff hanger-there is a mild cliff hanger but more of a set up to the next book so don't worry about that. I would recommend that you read the first one first!
Excerpt: The trees stood tall and silent. Their leaves were starting to change color. If she had been there for any other reason, she would have stopped and admired their beauty. Sarah shivered in the stillness and peered around her. It seemed like the hardwoods watched her, and a chill ran down her spine.
August 17, 2012
Sarah and Lacy are spending the school year with their aunt and uncle because their parents have disappeared. No one knows what happened to them. Not only are their parents missing, but at the start of the school year a bomb goes off at the school and their Uncle Walt is inside.
Now Sarah and her Super Spies team are on the move again. They successfully solved the Cat Lady killer mystery this past summer, so nothing will stop them from finding out what happened at the school, which caused serious injury to their uncle.
The FBI is throwing around the word terrorist, and the first thing the Super Spies see at the school sight is a fishy guy in a fireman’s coat running away from the scene. With this clue in hand Sarah and the Super Spies rev-up for their next mystery adventure.
My Thoughts: This story starts out with a bang—literally!! I was a little worried at first about the implausibility of a huge bomb going off at a small Michigan high school (and the possibility of a terrorist), but after the first 50 pages Sarah grabbed me again, and I stopped worrying about the big idea and just let Sarah and the Super Spies lead me on an adventure. (And in the end it all worked out :) Orchard’s pacing of this mystery adventure is delightful, which is perfect because that is what will keep middle school readers reading!
I enjoyed the relationships between Sarah and her BFF Jackie and Sarah’s sister Lacy. It felt even more real and solid in this second book. The only thing that would occasionally take me out of the story is when the girls would use a phrase that would make me go, “Wait, when was this written? Early 90s?” With phrases like “cool beans,” and “Don’t have a cow” juxtaposed against a thoroughly modern plot element—a terrorist bombing—sometimes I felt out-of-time, if you will. I’m not sure, but I don’t really hear middle school girls using these phrases anymore. Don’t get me wrong, though. These phrases were used just a couple of times, so overall the dialogue is smooth and fits the plot and relationships!
And in the end, Lisa Orchard left me hanging with another mystery after the girls solve the crime (don’t doubt it:) Now, I need to know what happened to their parents!
Now Sarah and her Super Spies team are on the move again. They successfully solved the Cat Lady killer mystery this past summer, so nothing will stop them from finding out what happened at the school, which caused serious injury to their uncle.
The FBI is throwing around the word terrorist, and the first thing the Super Spies see at the school sight is a fishy guy in a fireman’s coat running away from the scene. With this clue in hand Sarah and the Super Spies rev-up for their next mystery adventure.
My Thoughts: This story starts out with a bang—literally!! I was a little worried at first about the implausibility of a huge bomb going off at a small Michigan high school (and the possibility of a terrorist), but after the first 50 pages Sarah grabbed me again, and I stopped worrying about the big idea and just let Sarah and the Super Spies lead me on an adventure. (And in the end it all worked out :) Orchard’s pacing of this mystery adventure is delightful, which is perfect because that is what will keep middle school readers reading!
I enjoyed the relationships between Sarah and her BFF Jackie and Sarah’s sister Lacy. It felt even more real and solid in this second book. The only thing that would occasionally take me out of the story is when the girls would use a phrase that would make me go, “Wait, when was this written? Early 90s?” With phrases like “cool beans,” and “Don’t have a cow” juxtaposed against a thoroughly modern plot element—a terrorist bombing—sometimes I felt out-of-time, if you will. I’m not sure, but I don’t really hear middle school girls using these phrases anymore. Don’t get me wrong, though. These phrases were used just a couple of times, so overall the dialogue is smooth and fits the plot and relationships!
And in the end, Lisa Orchard left me hanging with another mystery after the girls solve the crime (don’t doubt it:) Now, I need to know what happened to their parents!
July 10, 2013
I read the first book in this series and enjoyed it, so I was looking forward to reading the next. I have to say, it exceeded my expectations and my expectations were pretty high.
This novel quite literally starts out with a bang and then continues that way until the end. In my opinion, Lisa Orchard has a really good thing going here. Her characters work well together to tell the story and she fills her novels with plenty of mystery, giving you a reason to keep turning the page with anticipation of what is coming next.
In this novel, I felt the characters had matured nicely and were more determined and better organised than in the first. I appreciate it very much when an author realises that their characters must transition with the passing of time. I enjoyed getting to know some new characters as well.
One of the things that makes me really like Lisa Orchard's novels is the way she keeps offering small clues along the way without there being enough to give away the end. In this novel, she kept me guessing and guessing again until the final few pages.
I really didn't see this book going where it did, but that was a good thing. I like being surprised and appreciated that I didn't see where this was going early on.The ending also begs the question of what else is to come in the future, but it did not leave me hanging and feeling unsatisfied.
In this story the relationships of the girls is tested and tried, but the reader can also clearly feel how much they care for one another. Each time something new would happen, I would get emotional right along with them. I like seeing a bond between characters in the books I read, it allows me to feel closer to them and their situations.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a really good YA novel. You don't have to be a member of the younger audience to enjoy it though. I hope to see plenty more books from this author.
This novel quite literally starts out with a bang and then continues that way until the end. In my opinion, Lisa Orchard has a really good thing going here. Her characters work well together to tell the story and she fills her novels with plenty of mystery, giving you a reason to keep turning the page with anticipation of what is coming next.
In this novel, I felt the characters had matured nicely and were more determined and better organised than in the first. I appreciate it very much when an author realises that their characters must transition with the passing of time. I enjoyed getting to know some new characters as well.
One of the things that makes me really like Lisa Orchard's novels is the way she keeps offering small clues along the way without there being enough to give away the end. In this novel, she kept me guessing and guessing again until the final few pages.
I really didn't see this book going where it did, but that was a good thing. I like being surprised and appreciated that I didn't see where this was going early on.The ending also begs the question of what else is to come in the future, but it did not leave me hanging and feeling unsatisfied.
In this story the relationships of the girls is tested and tried, but the reader can also clearly feel how much they care for one another. Each time something new would happen, I would get emotional right along with them. I like seeing a bond between characters in the books I read, it allows me to feel closer to them and their situations.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a really good YA novel. You don't have to be a member of the younger audience to enjoy it though. I hope to see plenty more books from this author.
June 25, 2013
The wonderful Lisa Orchard is back with another gripping addition to her Super Spies Series! The Super Spies and the High School Bomber. Sarah, Lacy, Jackie, and Scott are still getting over solving The Cat Lady's murder when the small town is blasted into a new school year! We are instantly thrown into the action from the first page and you can't take a breath till the last!
This second book in the series is just as good, if not better than the first! You expect a wild ride and you are not disappointed! While the Super Spies are on the hunt for the bomber and trying to sort out all the clues you learn that there is a possibility that the girls parents disappearance may be linked to terrorism and that the FBI is now looking into it. WHAT?! HOW? WHY?
Something that I enjoyed immensely was the great amount of collaboration between the FBI/Cops and the Super Spies in this book compared to book 1. It was enjoyable to read about them working things out together and the authorities trusting what the Super Spies were telling them. Just taking them more seriously was a good move forward in the series. The banter between Sarah and Jackie is ALWAYS enjoyable to read! Lisa has done an amazing job at creating two totally opposite characters that leap off the page and mesh so well together! I think we all have a relationship in our lives like Sarah and Jackie's. :) I also enjoyed the small romance that you saw a peek of in book 1 between Lacy and Scott and getting to see it develop discreetly in book 2. I can not say enough great things about this thrilling book!
If you loved The Super Spies and the Cat Lady you will LOVE The Super Spies and the High School Bomber! It has it all....thrills, close calls, justice, and heart to boot! Lisa made another winner and I look forward to more Super Spies mysteries to come.
This second book in the series is just as good, if not better than the first! You expect a wild ride and you are not disappointed! While the Super Spies are on the hunt for the bomber and trying to sort out all the clues you learn that there is a possibility that the girls parents disappearance may be linked to terrorism and that the FBI is now looking into it. WHAT?! HOW? WHY?
Something that I enjoyed immensely was the great amount of collaboration between the FBI/Cops and the Super Spies in this book compared to book 1. It was enjoyable to read about them working things out together and the authorities trusting what the Super Spies were telling them. Just taking them more seriously was a good move forward in the series. The banter between Sarah and Jackie is ALWAYS enjoyable to read! Lisa has done an amazing job at creating two totally opposite characters that leap off the page and mesh so well together! I think we all have a relationship in our lives like Sarah and Jackie's. :) I also enjoyed the small romance that you saw a peek of in book 1 between Lacy and Scott and getting to see it develop discreetly in book 2. I can not say enough great things about this thrilling book!
If you loved The Super Spies and the Cat Lady you will LOVE The Super Spies and the High School Bomber! It has it all....thrills, close calls, justice, and heart to boot! Lisa made another winner and I look forward to more Super Spies mysteries to come.
April 18, 2014
The first book in this series, Super Spies and the Cat Lady Killer was a very good book and I enjoyed this one even more. The plot of this book involves a bomb at a high school, a bit scary for kids considering the violence that happens at some schools, but there are no students harmed (only teachers are present at the school). The Super Spies – Lacy, Sarah, Jackie and Scott are caught up in trying to solve a the mystery of who set the bomb off and why. The book opens with a bang – literally – you are thrown right into the action with an explosion. Sarah and Lacey’s Uncle works at the school and they are concerned for his safety. They stumble upon a fireman who they suspect really isn’t who he seems to be. From there the Super Spies work to unravel the mystery.
The mystery itself was good. I didn’t see who the bomber was (and couldn’t guess his reasons for setting the bomb) but it was all believable and I didn’t see any holes in the story. Ms. Orchard’s writing style is good for MG/YA readers. Her characters are believable and her story is definitely interesting. The book is part of a series but can be read alone. After the mystery is solved, it ends with a great cliff-hanger (but I’m not going to tell you what it is. ;)
The mystery itself was good. I didn’t see who the bomber was (and couldn’t guess his reasons for setting the bomb) but it was all believable and I didn’t see any holes in the story. Ms. Orchard’s writing style is good for MG/YA readers. Her characters are believable and her story is definitely interesting. The book is part of a series but can be read alone. After the mystery is solved, it ends with a great cliff-hanger (but I’m not going to tell you what it is. ;)
May 25, 2013
The latest installment of Lisa Orchard’s Super Spies series is nearly as good as the first book; chock full of suspense, adventure, and mystery. It was hard to put down once I really got into the story and kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I like how these stories deal with some difficult subject matter, such as death, without becoming too dark. I also enjoyed seeing sisters Sarah and Lacey bond and become closer than they’ve ever been. While there isn’t anything wrong with Hinkle’s as a setting, I did wish that the Super Spies would branch out and meet in a few other places to change it up a bit. The end was abrupt. I couldn’t believe it ended where it did – what a brilliant cliffhanger! I can’t wait to see how the next book in the series plays out!
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.
July 27, 2012
I enjoyed writing this book and my beta readers liked it better than the first one! It's full of suspense and it will definitely get you to turn off the TV! :) The readers learn right along with the characters.
August 5, 2013
This second book in the series was filled with action and suspense. I look forward to reading the next one.
August 29, 2012
Review coming soon.
November 8, 2014
This is the 2nd story in the Super Spies series and it was great to be reintroduced to Sarah, her sister Lacey, her best friend Jackie and finally the newest member of the club, Scott.
The story starts with a bang, quire literally when a bomb explodes at the local high school. Fearing for her uncles life (school teacher), Sarah and the Super Spies race to the school to see what they can find out. Sarah's "detective" senses are on high alert when a chance meeting with a fireman at the scene doesn't quite add up. As the Super Spies delve more into the bombing, Sarah begins to wonder if the bombing is related to the disappearance of her parents. With the help of the local police and the FBI, will the Super Spies find out the truth behind the bombings or will the bad guys come back to finish what they started?
I love reading Lisa's books. They are always full of action and adventure, true friendships and the meaning of family. The strength of the characters are amazing and I'm looking forward to the next Super Spies book.
The story starts with a bang, quire literally when a bomb explodes at the local high school. Fearing for her uncles life (school teacher), Sarah and the Super Spies race to the school to see what they can find out. Sarah's "detective" senses are on high alert when a chance meeting with a fireman at the scene doesn't quite add up. As the Super Spies delve more into the bombing, Sarah begins to wonder if the bombing is related to the disappearance of her parents. With the help of the local police and the FBI, will the Super Spies find out the truth behind the bombings or will the bad guys come back to finish what they started?
I love reading Lisa's books. They are always full of action and adventure, true friendships and the meaning of family. The strength of the characters are amazing and I'm looking forward to the next Super Spies book.
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.*
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August 6, 2012natural
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