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The Mission League #1
The New Recruit
Forced to choose between military school and a Christian spy organization, skeptic Spencer Garmond signs on with the Bible geeks. But before he even boards the plane for Moscow, Spencer realizes this is no Bible club.
These guys mean business.
Stumbling onto a case involving a gang of homeless boys, a chilling tattoo, and the always beautiful Anya Vseveloda, Spencer struggles to find the faith needed to save the Mission League from enemy infiltration.
These guys mean business.
Stumbling onto a case involving a gang of homeless boys, a chilling tattoo, and the always beautiful Anya Vseveloda, Spencer struggles to find the faith needed to save the Mission League from enemy infiltration.
420 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2012
60 people are currently reading
1925 people want to read
About the author
Jill Williamson
66 books1,620 followersJill Williamson is a multi-passionate creative who loves the arts. She’s written over thirty books for readers of all ages and is best known for her Blood of Kings fantasy series, two of which won Christy Awards and made VOYA magazine’s Best Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror list. She produces films with her husband and teaches about writing at conferences. Visit her at www.jillwilliamson.com.
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Jill's author website.
Jill's Amazon Author page.
Jill's Instagram.
Click here for a FULL LIST OF Jill's BOOKS.
Newest Series:
Thirst Duology
Fan favorites:
Writing books:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
May 11, 2015
My hands and ankles are taped, as is my mouth. There is a pillowcase over my head that prevents me from seeing who my captors are. I can do nothing. Suddenly a hand reaches up inside the pillowcase and rips the tape off of my mouth. Ouch. That hurt. I'll probably be missing patches of skin later after all the other tape comes off. Someone shakes me roughly. I smell fresh baked cookies coming from somewhere close by. Wait, cookies? "What do you know about the book The New Recruit by Jill Williamson?" a deep voice asks me. I know what to do. I've been trained for this. Mr. S. had gone over the art of interrogation quite thoroughly in class. Now if only I could remember. . . . I am kicked in the leg. Not too hard, but I'm still gonna have a bruise. Apparently my captors were becoming impatient. "Tell us what you know or we will destroy all the books you have in your bedroom." They wouldn't dare! Mr. S. hadn't warned me that my captors would threaten to harm my books!
"Okay, okay I'll talk! What do you want to know?"
"The New Recruit, tell us of the New Recruit!"
"The 'New Recruit' is actually Spencer Garmond a high school freshman who's life is about to be turned upside down by a secret christian spy organization called The Mission League." I pause, wondering if they want more.
Another kick. "Keep going."
"Spencer isn't a christian and he's a teenage boy so sometimes his thoughts are a bit. . . unexpected. Defenitally more for teenage readers, but overall theres nothing bad (Spencer's just got an eye for the ladies).
Jill Williamson is AMAZING. I've never before read a book and felt as connected to the main character as I did when reading The New Recruit. Jill does a wonderful job of getting you inside Spencer's head and Spencer is hilarious. The story itself is sooooooooooooooooooooooooooo--"
This time I'm smacked lightly on the head. "Ow! It's really awesome, okay? The Mission League is a christian spy organization. A CHRISTIAN SPY ORGANIZATION. Just when I thought I've seen everything. Theres plenty of action, and did I mention it's also educational? Ohhh yes. In this book the Mission League travels to Russia. Jill paints a really vivid picture of the country and theres some Russian involved as well."
"Anything else?" The smell of cookies is beginning to make my stomach growl.
"Yes, christian or not you should definitely check out this book. You will spend hours wrapped up in suspense, unable to put the book down and laughing hysterically into your pillow. Trust me."
The pillow case is removed and I find myself looking up into the face of... "Mr. S?"
I look around and see team Alpha and team Diakonos all in various places around the room. The members of the Alpha team are glaring at me. Apparently I failed my initiation kidnappping. "That's minus 10 points for Team Alpha because Micailah broke under pressure," Mr. S. stated.
I look around sheepishly at my still glowering teammates. "He threatened my books!"
"Okay, okay I'll talk! What do you want to know?"
"The New Recruit, tell us of the New Recruit!"
"The 'New Recruit' is actually Spencer Garmond a high school freshman who's life is about to be turned upside down by a secret christian spy organization called The Mission League." I pause, wondering if they want more.
Another kick. "Keep going."
"Spencer isn't a christian and he's a teenage boy so sometimes his thoughts are a bit. . . unexpected. Defenitally more for teenage readers, but overall theres nothing bad (Spencer's just got an eye for the ladies).
Jill Williamson is AMAZING. I've never before read a book and felt as connected to the main character as I did when reading The New Recruit. Jill does a wonderful job of getting you inside Spencer's head and Spencer is hilarious. The story itself is sooooooooooooooooooooooooooo--"
This time I'm smacked lightly on the head. "Ow! It's really awesome, okay? The Mission League is a christian spy organization. A CHRISTIAN SPY ORGANIZATION. Just when I thought I've seen everything. Theres plenty of action, and did I mention it's also educational? Ohhh yes. In this book the Mission League travels to Russia. Jill paints a really vivid picture of the country and theres some Russian involved as well."
"Anything else?" The smell of cookies is beginning to make my stomach growl.
"Yes, christian or not you should definitely check out this book. You will spend hours wrapped up in suspense, unable to put the book down and laughing hysterically into your pillow. Trust me."
The pillow case is removed and I find myself looking up into the face of... "Mr. S?"
I look around and see team Alpha and team Diakonos all in various places around the room. The members of the Alpha team are glaring at me. Apparently I failed my initiation kidnappping. "That's minus 10 points for Team Alpha because Micailah broke under pressure," Mr. S. stated.
I look around sheepishly at my still glowering teammates. "He threatened my books!"
March 9, 2020
I didn't know I love spy novels until I read this series.
September 16, 2012
What I Loved
The voice.
I could pretty much sum up the entirety of what I loved about this book with those two words.
Yes, the plot was amazing. Yes, the fact that Spencer was iffy about what all was going on helped me really believe in what was going on (with a Christian spy organization, there has to be a teensy-weensy ounce of doubt in the beginning, right? Aesthetic distance, maybe?).
Yes, this book totally made me laugh and come home from a long day of school, school, and more school, excited about seeing what Spencer's next adventure was.
But, really, what kept me reading to discover that the plot twisted and turned was the way Spencer looked at the world.
I remember saying something along a similar vein about Martyr in Replication, but Jill Williamson definitely has her male main characters pegged. She's awesome at them. And take it from someone who is very much a girl: when an author can get me excited about what's happening in the life of a fifteen-year-old basketball rebel (with me only wanting to throw something at him once during the whole novel), that's a sign of true talent.
What I Didn't Like As Much
So you're dying to know about that one moment I wanted to throw something at Spencer, aren't you? Well, you see, Spencer isn't a Christian, but he's part of this spy organization (unwillingly, anyway).
He makes a great spy and I really like how his not-yet-faith-but-totally-now-spy-work is handled. Completely believable.
{And on the subject of believable, I did mention Spencer's skepticism of the whole spy gig at first. That was played extremely well, so that when he finally believed in the existence of the whole thing, so did I.}
Anyway, Spencer looks at life in an interesting manner as an unbeliever and there was one line where he basically calls a girl unattractive and I was ready to wring his neck. But it passed and he ended up respecting that same girl, which elevated him again in my book.
Why I Recommend This Book
For those looking for an adventure read, here's your answer. For those looking for a great birthday or Christmas gift for a guy or little brother, New Recruit would be an excellent choice. The ending, especially, is handled with great tact. I love it, but I won't give anything away.
You'll just have to find out for yourself.
*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. These thoughts are my own.
The voice.
I could pretty much sum up the entirety of what I loved about this book with those two words.
Yes, the plot was amazing. Yes, the fact that Spencer was iffy about what all was going on helped me really believe in what was going on (with a Christian spy organization, there has to be a teensy-weensy ounce of doubt in the beginning, right? Aesthetic distance, maybe?).
Yes, this book totally made me laugh and come home from a long day of school, school, and more school, excited about seeing what Spencer's next adventure was.
But, really, what kept me reading to discover that the plot twisted and turned was the way Spencer looked at the world.
I remember saying something along a similar vein about Martyr in Replication, but Jill Williamson definitely has her male main characters pegged. She's awesome at them. And take it from someone who is very much a girl: when an author can get me excited about what's happening in the life of a fifteen-year-old basketball rebel (with me only wanting to throw something at him once during the whole novel), that's a sign of true talent.
What I Didn't Like As Much
So you're dying to know about that one moment I wanted to throw something at Spencer, aren't you? Well, you see, Spencer isn't a Christian, but he's part of this spy organization (unwillingly, anyway).
He makes a great spy and I really like how his not-yet-faith-but-totally-now-spy-work is handled. Completely believable.
{And on the subject of believable, I did mention Spencer's skepticism of the whole spy gig at first. That was played extremely well, so that when he finally believed in the existence of the whole thing, so did I.}
Anyway, Spencer looks at life in an interesting manner as an unbeliever and there was one line where he basically calls a girl unattractive and I was ready to wring his neck. But it passed and he ended up respecting that same girl, which elevated him again in my book.
Why I Recommend This Book
For those looking for an adventure read, here's your answer. For those looking for a great birthday or Christmas gift for a guy or little brother, New Recruit would be an excellent choice. The ending, especially, is handled with great tact. I love it, but I won't give anything away.
You'll just have to find out for yourself.
*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. These thoughts are my own.
February 2, 2016
Most people I know didn't enjoy this too much, but I absolutely LOVED it! The beginning was a little fast for me, and in some places I wanted to bash Spencer over the head, but it was soooo good. Of course, I may also think that because I love Russia.... BUT STILL.
May 22, 2019
REREAD: Still as good as ever. I loved revisiting this and picking up all the bits I missed, now that I know how the story ends.
September 15, 2019
I have to admit...at first, Spencer was a little annoying. Then hilarious. Then heroic. Spencer was a super fun character! 😄
I really enjoyed this story! I love the whole secret agent thing. I definitely want to get my hands on the rest of the series. God’s not done with Spencer yet and neither am I!
I really enjoyed this story! I love the whole secret agent thing. I definitely want to get my hands on the rest of the series. God’s not done with Spencer yet and neither am I!
December 3, 2024
3 ½ stars 🌟
July 16, 2016
Ah, these kids. <3 You all know that I often have… difficulties with characters who consistently make unwise decisions about their lives, but even though Spencer got himself into several situations that could have very easily been avoided, I loved him. He wasn’t anywhere close to perfect and I can’t even say that I 100 % understood where he was coming from; but there was just something about him that allowed me to look past the fact that he was hot-tempered knucklehead who really needed to slow down and think every once in a while and find an individual I could adore underneath. I can’t even pinpoint what makes me love him, I wouldn’t even say that I personally related to his struggles, but there was just something about him that worked in spite of his flaws and made me love to watch him grow.
The other characters were pretty fun for the most part, and the ones I got to know were a really diverse cast (by that I mean, there were some really nice Christian kids, a sweet-but-totally-know-it-all Christian kid, and a jerk Christian kid. So really, they were just real kids, and I got to watch them develop and grow as well); but to be honest, I had trouble keeping track of some of the Mission Leaguers. Like, I was aware of their presence, but some of the kids just didn’t stand out that much to me, and except for ones like Isabel, Arianna, and Gabe (my precious small <3) who truly made themselves known, I kept getting the kids mixed up. But maybe I will get to go deeper with them in future books, and if so, I really look forward to that.
If you'd like to read more of my thoughts on this book, the full review will go live on Saturday, July 16th, 2016, on Verbosity Reviews.
The other characters were pretty fun for the most part, and the ones I got to know were a really diverse cast (by that I mean, there were some really nice Christian kids, a sweet-but-totally-know-it-all Christian kid, and a jerk Christian kid. So really, they were just real kids, and I got to watch them develop and grow as well); but to be honest, I had trouble keeping track of some of the Mission Leaguers. Like, I was aware of their presence, but some of the kids just didn’t stand out that much to me, and except for ones like Isabel, Arianna, and Gabe (my precious small <3) who truly made themselves known, I kept getting the kids mixed up. But maybe I will get to go deeper with them in future books, and if so, I really look forward to that.
If you'd like to read more of my thoughts on this book, the full review will go live on Saturday, July 16th, 2016, on Verbosity Reviews.
December 20, 2016
Typical Spencer: "I used to like church. When I was a kid, I looked forward to Sunday school, bringing my quarters for starving children in Africa, making cross crafts out of popsicle sticks, memorizing Bible verses, singing songs with hand motions, and showing Grandma the cartoon story in the take-home paper. Somewhere along the way I just lost interest. But I’m glad, you know? Because when I look at the people who are my age— those churcher teens— I don’t want to be one of those people. Those happy, peppy, “Yay, God!” types. I’ve got my friends. I don’t need all that… joy."
Spencer Garmond thought he was an ordinary kid who lived with an ordinary grandma and who went to an ordinary (though boring) Christian school. And then he gets an opportunity to join the Mission League. A bunch of Christian spies? What a joke. But threatened with military school and intrigued by his family history, he joins them. Now this better not be a waste of what might have been a great basketball conditioning summer. And they better not preach at him.
I seriously loved "The New Recruit" with its action-packed story that was also full of truths about God. Jill Williamson did a great job of making Christianity something very real and applicable to teens. At first, Spencer doesn't want anything to do with the "churchers," but later he comes to realize that maybe God really does care.
Spencer is a great character, who is fun to read about and very relatable. His voice, dripped with boyishness and quick wit and just plain freshness, was one of the best parts of the story.
"The New Recruit" is free on kindle. It is the first book in The Mission League series. The others are "Chokepoint" (novella), "Project Gemini," "Ambushed" (novella), "Broken Trust," "Lockstep" (novella), and "The Profile Match."
Spencer Garmond thought he was an ordinary kid who lived with an ordinary grandma and who went to an ordinary (though boring) Christian school. And then he gets an opportunity to join the Mission League. A bunch of Christian spies? What a joke. But threatened with military school and intrigued by his family history, he joins them. Now this better not be a waste of what might have been a great basketball conditioning summer. And they better not preach at him.
I seriously loved "The New Recruit" with its action-packed story that was also full of truths about God. Jill Williamson did a great job of making Christianity something very real and applicable to teens. At first, Spencer doesn't want anything to do with the "churchers," but later he comes to realize that maybe God really does care.
Spencer is a great character, who is fun to read about and very relatable. His voice, dripped with boyishness and quick wit and just plain freshness, was one of the best parts of the story.
"The New Recruit" is free on kindle. It is the first book in The Mission League series. The others are "Chokepoint" (novella), "Project Gemini," "Ambushed" (novella), "Broken Trust," "Lockstep" (novella), and "The Profile Match."
September 17, 2012
Jill Williamson’s latest novel, The New Recruit, is another great read for young adult readers. Spencer Garmond, the newest recruit for a secretive organization destined to do intelligence work for God, is a reluctant, if not skeptical member of the Mission League. But that doesn’t stop him from joining their adventures in Russia. Ms. Williamson does a spectacular job weaving intrigue and danger into this spy-kidesque mission.
The fun doesn’t stop with the plot. No, the characters are unique and as colorful as the storyline. Ms. Williamson weave realistic contemporary teens with dramatic flare. This is a fun read that is both engaging and challenging. And it’s a great read for guys, something that’s become a bit rare.
I received this book free from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 [...] “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
The fun doesn’t stop with the plot. No, the characters are unique and as colorful as the storyline. Ms. Williamson weave realistic contemporary teens with dramatic flare. This is a fun read that is both engaging and challenging. And it’s a great read for guys, something that’s become a bit rare.
I received this book free from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 [...] “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
February 18, 2013
This is one of my favorite books by Jill Williamson. I love the voice and journey that Spencer goes through and the creative twist on spy novels. A great book for both middle and high school aged readers.
August 30, 2016
Excellent writing style.
March 13, 2019
DNF at page 162
Ok so some content was disappointing and frankly this confused me... a lot!
I did not like how anti-Christian Spencer was and I feel that if this is supposed to be a Christian organisation then shouldn't the main character BE a Christian too???
Also I wasn't sure about the whole getting visions thing. THAT was weird, to be honest, and I didn't really go for it. And I was reading as an ebook anyway so then I just got bored.
AND Spencer has a one-track mind, you guessed it, girls! That was just plain annoying. So yeah....
Ok so some content was disappointing and frankly this confused me... a lot!
I did not like how anti-Christian Spencer was and I feel that if this is supposed to be a Christian organisation then shouldn't the main character BE a Christian too???
Also I wasn't sure about the whole getting visions thing. THAT was weird, to be honest, and I didn't really go for it. And I was reading as an ebook anyway so then I just got bored.
AND Spencer has a one-track mind, you guessed it, girls! That was just plain annoying. So yeah....
October 30, 2017
Fantastic voice!
September 29, 2012
The Story. Spencer Garmond seems like a typical freshman in high school--girl crazy, half-trying to balance the demands at home with the fun and games he wants for his life. Number one is his love of basketball and his ambition to play in college. And why shouldn't he have that dream? At six feet five, he made the varsity and is hoping for a starting spot next year.
Standing in his way is ... well, perhaps, himself. He gets angry way too often, ends up in fights, and his grandmother, who has raised him since his parents died, won't take any more of his landing in trouble. He's cleaned up as best he could, but there's still C-Roc and then the mysterious men who show up looking for him. Are they there to take him to military school as his grandmother has threatened?
Not quite. The alternative to military school is for him to join a secret group of agents--Christians, with offices throughout the world. He's to go into training, then participate in an introductory mission to Moscow during the summer.
Except, Spencer doesn't hang with those churchers. And he has to swear off, well, swearing, and fighting, and drugs, and pretty much everything. Of course, he's already quit doing drugs and no longer hangs with the gang that ended up in trouble with the law. The fighting and swearing--now those might be a problem, but he's game to try to stop when he learns his parents once belonged to the Mission League. In fact, his mother wrote him a letter revealing her hopes for him.
Next to basketball and maybe girls, learning about his parents becomes the driving force in Spencer's life. But the trip to Moscow uncovers more about his own life than it does about his parents', and the adventures turn deadly so that he's not worried about losing basketball as much as he is about losing his life.
Strengths. Jill writes compelling stories built around engaging characters. Spencer is a reluctant hero who has a lot of hurt he covers with enough swag to chase away any real relationships. His voice is strong, and he comes across as thoroughly believable in his role as tough guy trying to do better, trying to make it, and not feeling like he fits in with the churchers. His motives are clear, his choices understandable.
The plot speeds by, bolstered by the secrets Jill is adept at keeping from the readers. What happened to Spencer's parents? Why does Nick hate him so much? What trouble was Spencer in before his new determination to keep his nose clean?
Then there is the suspense, both connected to the overall plot and to Spencer's inner life. There are even relational questions that surface. On every page there is some question that pulls the reader forward.
The cast is not a small one, but for the most part, Jill did a masterful job giving each person unique, memorable, and sometimes quirky traits that made them seem authentic. Even the antagonists are painted well.
The thematic elements are woven throughout in a way that adds to the story, all without the taint of preachiness. Each character acts in a way consistent with his personality. Those of faith act in a way that is true to life--sometimes knowing and doing the right thing and sometimes not, often in the frantic zeal of not knowing what is best.
The story aptly shows a variety of responses to the gospel--some from unspeakable brokenness embracing faith, and others with advantages and privilege turning their backs. There is no easy believe-ism here, no one-and-done response to the first presentation of the gospel that occurs.
Above all, The New Recruit turns the idea of spiritual warfare on its head. Though this is far from an allegory, nevertheless, the reality of battle becomes strikingly real within these pages.
Weaknesses. This is definitely a story for Christians though the main character is not a believer. This is not a weakness that destroys the story, however, and many readers may actually find they prefer reading about authentic struggles and doubts and fears. Some of the most important thematic threads run through the minor characters' storylines, so there is plenty of meat for Christians.
Recommendation. I'm enthusiastic about The New Recruit. It's smart, contemporary (mentioned in text is Angel Eyes a novel by Shannon Dittemore that just released this year), fast-paced, insightful. It's not brimming with speculative elements, so for those only satisfied with the weird or the dark, this probably won't be weird enough or dark enough. But for anyone else who loves a fast-paced adventure with a few speculative elements, you will LOVE this book. If you're a Jill Williamson fan, of course this is a must read. You will not be disappointed!
Standing in his way is ... well, perhaps, himself. He gets angry way too often, ends up in fights, and his grandmother, who has raised him since his parents died, won't take any more of his landing in trouble. He's cleaned up as best he could, but there's still C-Roc and then the mysterious men who show up looking for him. Are they there to take him to military school as his grandmother has threatened?
Not quite. The alternative to military school is for him to join a secret group of agents--Christians, with offices throughout the world. He's to go into training, then participate in an introductory mission to Moscow during the summer.
Except, Spencer doesn't hang with those churchers. And he has to swear off, well, swearing, and fighting, and drugs, and pretty much everything. Of course, he's already quit doing drugs and no longer hangs with the gang that ended up in trouble with the law. The fighting and swearing--now those might be a problem, but he's game to try to stop when he learns his parents once belonged to the Mission League. In fact, his mother wrote him a letter revealing her hopes for him.
Next to basketball and maybe girls, learning about his parents becomes the driving force in Spencer's life. But the trip to Moscow uncovers more about his own life than it does about his parents', and the adventures turn deadly so that he's not worried about losing basketball as much as he is about losing his life.
Strengths. Jill writes compelling stories built around engaging characters. Spencer is a reluctant hero who has a lot of hurt he covers with enough swag to chase away any real relationships. His voice is strong, and he comes across as thoroughly believable in his role as tough guy trying to do better, trying to make it, and not feeling like he fits in with the churchers. His motives are clear, his choices understandable.
The plot speeds by, bolstered by the secrets Jill is adept at keeping from the readers. What happened to Spencer's parents? Why does Nick hate him so much? What trouble was Spencer in before his new determination to keep his nose clean?
Then there is the suspense, both connected to the overall plot and to Spencer's inner life. There are even relational questions that surface. On every page there is some question that pulls the reader forward.
The cast is not a small one, but for the most part, Jill did a masterful job giving each person unique, memorable, and sometimes quirky traits that made them seem authentic. Even the antagonists are painted well.
The thematic elements are woven throughout in a way that adds to the story, all without the taint of preachiness. Each character acts in a way consistent with his personality. Those of faith act in a way that is true to life--sometimes knowing and doing the right thing and sometimes not, often in the frantic zeal of not knowing what is best.
The story aptly shows a variety of responses to the gospel--some from unspeakable brokenness embracing faith, and others with advantages and privilege turning their backs. There is no easy believe-ism here, no one-and-done response to the first presentation of the gospel that occurs.
Above all, The New Recruit turns the idea of spiritual warfare on its head. Though this is far from an allegory, nevertheless, the reality of battle becomes strikingly real within these pages.
Weaknesses. This is definitely a story for Christians though the main character is not a believer. This is not a weakness that destroys the story, however, and many readers may actually find they prefer reading about authentic struggles and doubts and fears. Some of the most important thematic threads run through the minor characters' storylines, so there is plenty of meat for Christians.
Recommendation. I'm enthusiastic about The New Recruit. It's smart, contemporary (mentioned in text is Angel Eyes a novel by Shannon Dittemore that just released this year), fast-paced, insightful. It's not brimming with speculative elements, so for those only satisfied with the weird or the dark, this probably won't be weird enough or dark enough. But for anyone else who loves a fast-paced adventure with a few speculative elements, you will LOVE this book. If you're a Jill Williamson fan, of course this is a must read. You will not be disappointed!
October 2, 2012
The New Recruit
The Mission League #1
by Jill Williamson
Spencer Garmond is trouble and it has finally caught up to him. Hanging out with the wrong crowd, skipping detention, language that needs censoring at 15 Spencer is heading the wrong way and fast. When given a choice between going to Military school or joining the Mission League, Spencer chooses the Mission League.
But what does Spencer have in common with a bunch of "churchers"? Not much in Spencer's opinion and spending summer vacation on a training mission in Moscow is just so not him. The best part of the trip is maybe scoring some time with the girls.
But nothing turns out as he expected after he meets the mysterious and beautiful Anya. The Mission League is determined to save Spencer in spite of himself. But they all learn valuable lessons as they work together and help out at a homeless center in the heart of Moscow.
Spencer is determined to prove that he is an able member of the League even though he is an irregular recruit. After all everyone else is following in their family's footsteps as an agent, but Spencer's parents are dead and he lives with his eccentric grandmother. But how can Spencer prove himself when every move he makes seems to be breaking a rule and he just doesn't get all this God stuff. Can Spencer live long enough to figure it all out? Only time will tell!
The New Recruit is an exciting YA series kick-off. Each chapter is headed as if it was a mission report just adding to the feel. Can Spencer determine who he truly is? And what is the Mission League hiding from him?
Thanks to author Jill Williamson for providing me with a copy of this title for the purpose of this review!
The Mission League #1
by Jill Williamson
Spencer Garmond is trouble and it has finally caught up to him. Hanging out with the wrong crowd, skipping detention, language that needs censoring at 15 Spencer is heading the wrong way and fast. When given a choice between going to Military school or joining the Mission League, Spencer chooses the Mission League.
But what does Spencer have in common with a bunch of "churchers"? Not much in Spencer's opinion and spending summer vacation on a training mission in Moscow is just so not him. The best part of the trip is maybe scoring some time with the girls.
But nothing turns out as he expected after he meets the mysterious and beautiful Anya. The Mission League is determined to save Spencer in spite of himself. But they all learn valuable lessons as they work together and help out at a homeless center in the heart of Moscow.
Spencer is determined to prove that he is an able member of the League even though he is an irregular recruit. After all everyone else is following in their family's footsteps as an agent, but Spencer's parents are dead and he lives with his eccentric grandmother. But how can Spencer prove himself when every move he makes seems to be breaking a rule and he just doesn't get all this God stuff. Can Spencer live long enough to figure it all out? Only time will tell!
The New Recruit is an exciting YA series kick-off. Each chapter is headed as if it was a mission report just adding to the feel. Can Spencer determine who he truly is? And what is the Mission League hiding from him?
Thanks to author Jill Williamson for providing me with a copy of this title for the purpose of this review!
October 17, 2012
Spies . . . Cool gadgets . . . An undercover mission trip.
What more could you ask for in a novel?
The premise - a Christian spy organization - promises an interesting read, and The New Recruit certainly delivers. From the first page, I was caught up in the whirlwind of Spencer Garmond's life as a reluctant member of the Mission League.
In all of her books, Jill Williamson's characters tend to step off the page and into real life, and Spencer Garmond was no exception. His voice was so clear and real and believable that, within a few pages, I felt like I actually knew him and wouldn't have been surprised to run into him on the street.
I found Spencer's reservations about Christianity and the "churcher" kids he is forced to hang out with as a member of the Mission League to be believable, as well as the sometimes bumbling attempts of the other kids on the trip as they try to figure out the best way to minister to and befriend Spencer.
In addition to the great characters, Jill keeps the pages turning through lots of action mixed with the ordinary tasks of a regular mission trip - serving at a homeless shelter, scrubbing tables, stacking chairs, etc. Anyone who's ever been on a mission trip will enjoy the familiarity of these sections along with the freshness of the whole undercover spy deal.
As the first book in a four book series about the Mission League, The New Recruit left me eagerly awaiting book two!
If you're looking for an exciting read with an adventurous flair, sneakery, and cool gadgets (like a bionic ear, night vision contacts, etc), then I highly recommend The New Recruit.
What more could you ask for in a novel?
The premise - a Christian spy organization - promises an interesting read, and The New Recruit certainly delivers. From the first page, I was caught up in the whirlwind of Spencer Garmond's life as a reluctant member of the Mission League.
In all of her books, Jill Williamson's characters tend to step off the page and into real life, and Spencer Garmond was no exception. His voice was so clear and real and believable that, within a few pages, I felt like I actually knew him and wouldn't have been surprised to run into him on the street.
I found Spencer's reservations about Christianity and the "churcher" kids he is forced to hang out with as a member of the Mission League to be believable, as well as the sometimes bumbling attempts of the other kids on the trip as they try to figure out the best way to minister to and befriend Spencer.
In addition to the great characters, Jill keeps the pages turning through lots of action mixed with the ordinary tasks of a regular mission trip - serving at a homeless shelter, scrubbing tables, stacking chairs, etc. Anyone who's ever been on a mission trip will enjoy the familiarity of these sections along with the freshness of the whole undercover spy deal.
As the first book in a four book series about the Mission League, The New Recruit left me eagerly awaiting book two!
If you're looking for an exciting read with an adventurous flair, sneakery, and cool gadgets (like a bionic ear, night vision contacts, etc), then I highly recommend The New Recruit.
April 29, 2015
What first attracted me to this book was 1. Jill Williamson (fantastic author), 2. spies (can rarly go wrong with this kinda plot), and 3. Russia (have a strange fasination and obsession with Russia since the movie Anastasia. Even have a book in Russian yet I can't read a word of it). While reading The New Recruit, I enjoyed the oportunity, like many of my fellow reviews, to see from the point of view of someone who doesn't practice their Christian faith while surounded by those who do. It gave it a unique persective and gave me, the reader and a practicing Christian, a chance to see my behaviors towards someone who doesn't think, or believe, like I do in a new way. Spencer did grow, though, before the end of the book and will be digging deeper, I'm sure, in later books. The action in the story was good too and the cult that Spencer and Pasha got mixed up in was realistic. ***SPOILER*** For a literature class, I just read a couple of Emerson's speeches and the cult's idea to look inside yourself for power reminded me of Emerson's ideas on spirituality too. ***END SPOILER*** The beginning was a little slow to me and I thought I saw a couple of telling situations but that faded as the book went on and I found myslef picking the book up when I should have been doing school because I was curious as to what happened next. Looking forward to the next books in this series and all the adventure and character journeys to come.
In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from Jill Williamson through Team Novel Teen
In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from Jill Williamson through Team Novel Teen
October 10, 2012
Fast-paced and engaging from the very first!
A fantastic beginning to what I know will be an amazing series! There were so many things to love about The New Recruit, full of diverse characters to fit every personality, it would be hard not to find at least one characters to identify with. For me as a homeschooler, I really liked how the homeschoolers were well represented by Beth and Isaac!
I loved how engaged I was from the very start, and that Spencer and his friends' senses of humor kept me smiling throughout. There was plenty of action too, but I think one of my favorite things was being able to see the beginning of Spencer's journey towards faith, which I think was well done and very realistic.
The members of The Mission League were all so different, but I really liked how they interacted and became closer through their mission.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and had a hard time putting it down. I loved the mystery of it all, and how Spencer kind of was thrust into a surreal situation and how he had to adjust and find his place on the team. This book is one that can totally be enjoyed by a vast range of ages by both boys and girls, and adults alike! (I even saw my brother giving it more than a few glances!) Jill Williamson hits all the right notes, taking Spencer on a physical, emotional, and spiritual journey, that I will not be forgetting an time soon, especially while eagerly awaiting the next book in the series! A book I highly recommend to practically anyone!
I received this book from Jill Williamson in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
A fantastic beginning to what I know will be an amazing series! There were so many things to love about The New Recruit, full of diverse characters to fit every personality, it would be hard not to find at least one characters to identify with. For me as a homeschooler, I really liked how the homeschoolers were well represented by Beth and Isaac!
I loved how engaged I was from the very start, and that Spencer and his friends' senses of humor kept me smiling throughout. There was plenty of action too, but I think one of my favorite things was being able to see the beginning of Spencer's journey towards faith, which I think was well done and very realistic.
The members of The Mission League were all so different, but I really liked how they interacted and became closer through their mission.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and had a hard time putting it down. I loved the mystery of it all, and how Spencer kind of was thrust into a surreal situation and how he had to adjust and find his place on the team. This book is one that can totally be enjoyed by a vast range of ages by both boys and girls, and adults alike! (I even saw my brother giving it more than a few glances!) Jill Williamson hits all the right notes, taking Spencer on a physical, emotional, and spiritual journey, that I will not be forgetting an time soon, especially while eagerly awaiting the next book in the series! A book I highly recommend to practically anyone!
I received this book from Jill Williamson in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
October 9, 2012
This book is your one-way ticket to Moscow, Russia!
Ms. Williamson's latest release, The New Recruit, the first in her new series, is an adventure-packed novel. For me, it started off a little slow but it didn't take too many chapters for the pace to really pick up. Then I was glued to it until the very last page.
In The New Recruit, we meet Spencer. Spencer isn't a Christian, but he goes to a Christian school. But, his knack for getting into trouble is getting back to him. His grandmother has given him her ultimatum: join the Mission League or go to Military school. He makes the obvious right choice and picks the "Bible geeks". Secrets are revealed and an adventure is unleashed.
While reading this, Ms. Williamson-through Spencer-really opened my eyes to how some people view Christians. It made me ponder how I've been acting/representing Christ. Am I showing Jesus's love to everyone? Am I shoving Jesus down other people's throats? I sure hope I'm not!
As for the characters, I liked Spencer, Isaac, Gabe, and Isabel. Arianna was sweet though a tad annoying at times but I could tell she had a heart of gold.
In my opinion, The New Recruit didn't top Replication (a previous novel from Ms. Williamson). But it still was pretty awesome. It truly felt like I was "watching" a spy movie. If you liked any of Ms. Williamson's previous novels you'll enjoy this one.
I received this book from Jill Williamson in return for an honest review. Thanks, Jill!
Ms. Williamson's latest release, The New Recruit, the first in her new series, is an adventure-packed novel. For me, it started off a little slow but it didn't take too many chapters for the pace to really pick up. Then I was glued to it until the very last page.
In The New Recruit, we meet Spencer. Spencer isn't a Christian, but he goes to a Christian school. But, his knack for getting into trouble is getting back to him. His grandmother has given him her ultimatum: join the Mission League or go to Military school. He makes the obvious right choice and picks the "Bible geeks". Secrets are revealed and an adventure is unleashed.
While reading this, Ms. Williamson-through Spencer-really opened my eyes to how some people view Christians. It made me ponder how I've been acting/representing Christ. Am I showing Jesus's love to everyone? Am I shoving Jesus down other people's throats? I sure hope I'm not!
As for the characters, I liked Spencer, Isaac, Gabe, and Isabel. Arianna was sweet though a tad annoying at times but I could tell she had a heart of gold.
In my opinion, The New Recruit didn't top Replication (a previous novel from Ms. Williamson). But it still was pretty awesome. It truly felt like I was "watching" a spy movie. If you liked any of Ms. Williamson's previous novels you'll enjoy this one.
I received this book from Jill Williamson in return for an honest review. Thanks, Jill!
September 25, 2012
I am fast becoming a fan of Jill Williamson’s writing. In The New Recruit, the first book in her Mission League series, young Spencer Garmond is given a choice by his grandmother: Stay at Pilot Point Christian School and do what he loves, play basketball, or get shipped off to Carlsbad Military Academy. It would seem an easy choice, but there’s a catch. In order to stay, he must join the Mission League, “an international intelligence organization that does the Lord’s work.”
Not being a believer, Spencer has no desire to join this group of “churcher teens.” But given his options, he reluctantly signs on with the Mission League. The group heads off to Russia as agents-in-training. Spencer is a teen who tends to get into trouble at home, and it is no different in Russia. He soon learns that there is more mystery and intrigue to this Mission League than he could have imagined. Spencer discovers he has been given a special gift. He seeks to use this gift, landing him in dangerous situations. At the same time, he attempts to learn more about the secrets of his own family history.
The New Recruit is well written. The author has created a group of interesting and likeable characters. The story flows along and is interwoven with adventure and suspense which kept me turning the pages. I enjoyed following Spencer’s personal journey and look forward to the next book in the series.
Not being a believer, Spencer has no desire to join this group of “churcher teens.” But given his options, he reluctantly signs on with the Mission League. The group heads off to Russia as agents-in-training. Spencer is a teen who tends to get into trouble at home, and it is no different in Russia. He soon learns that there is more mystery and intrigue to this Mission League than he could have imagined. Spencer discovers he has been given a special gift. He seeks to use this gift, landing him in dangerous situations. At the same time, he attempts to learn more about the secrets of his own family history.
The New Recruit is well written. The author has created a group of interesting and likeable characters. The story flows along and is interwoven with adventure and suspense which kept me turning the pages. I enjoyed following Spencer’s personal journey and look forward to the next book in the series.
February 1, 2019
I loved this book. I don’t know why that surprised me. I’ve loved everything I’ve read by Jill Williamson. Still, I wasn’t 100% sure that this book would be my cup of tea. Even so, I couldn’t actually resist a book about teenage spies on a mission trip to Moscow, could I? I mean Russia…land where I fell in love with missions. And who doesn’t love a good spy story? Throw in secret meetings before school, the Russian mafia, the power of prayer and spiritual warfare set amid the very real struggle to communicate what having a personal relationship with God looks like to a skeptic, all the while dealing with people who don’t represent God accurately…well, it all made for a great story.
It didn’t hurt that the book was well written, fast paced and that the characters were quirky enough to be interesting while being authentic enough to be believable.
I can’t wait to read book two. How long do I have to wait for that???
***I received a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion***
It didn’t hurt that the book was well written, fast paced and that the characters were quirky enough to be interesting while being authentic enough to be believable.
I can’t wait to read book two. How long do I have to wait for that???
***I received a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion***
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October 13, 2012Jill Williamson has done it again with The New Recruit, book 1 of 4 in The Mission League series. Her voice is wonderful and her characters believable. Her plot is well woven and held my interest right until the very end.
I identified with Spencer and appreciated that his transition to belief wasn't an easy one. I also enjoyed the fact that all the Christians were unique and had flaws of their own. Very refreshing!
With each page turn I became more engrossed with the storyline and the plight of the characters--despite their failings. Or perhaps because of them. :)
It was well worth the time and the end was satisfying yet it left me yearning for the next installment!
I enjoyed the read despite not being a prolific reader in the spy genre.
Fast paced and a smooth read--definately one I will recommend to others!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for my review. However, I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
September 17, 2012
I seriously loved this book, it's not my usual type of book as I am a romance book kind of girl but I really got into this book, She describes everything really amazingly and I could really picture everything Every chapter had something new that shocked me and I will defiantly be reading the other 3 books in the series when they are released! I especially loved the ending chapters but i won't talk about them as I don't want to give anything away for anyone who wants to read it!
Overall I loved this book and would recomend it to anyone, even people who don't usually read Christian fiction like me:)
Overall I loved this book and would recomend it to anyone, even people who don't usually read Christian fiction like me:)
September 29, 2012
Forced to choose between military school and a Christian spy organization, skeptic Spencer Garmond signs on with the Bible geeks. But before he even boards the plane for Moscow, Spencer realizes this is no Bible club.These guys mean business.
Stumbling onto a gang of homeless boys calling themselves Bratva, with a chilling tattoo, and the always beautiful Anya Vseveloda, Spencer struggles to find the faith needed to save the Mission League from enemy infiltration. Why had Spencer been dreaming about Anya throughout the whole school year before he even met her?
Stumbling onto a gang of homeless boys calling themselves Bratva, with a chilling tattoo, and the always beautiful Anya Vseveloda, Spencer struggles to find the faith needed to save the Mission League from enemy infiltration. Why had Spencer been dreaming about Anya throughout the whole school year before he even met her?
November 1, 2016
Well, this wasn't bad at all! *grins* The New Recruit by Jill Williamson isn't my first choice of read, but I ended up quite enjoying it. Our main character, Spencer, was hard to like in more than one way; but he had some great character development through the course of the book.
Spies. Secrets. Action. Danger. Growing. An interesting group of teens on a unique adventure. I look forward to seeing what happens next!
Spies. Secrets. Action. Danger. Growing. An interesting group of teens on a unique adventure. I look forward to seeing what happens next!
June 7, 2021
This was a lot of fun! At first, I was really annoyed with Spencer, but by the end, he started to grow on me. All of the characters are really well written and interesting, the setting was beautiful, and the story had a lot of momentum and action. If you're looking for a thriller/mystery novel, this is a good one!
4/5.
4/5.
September 25, 2012
Jill Williamson gets into the head of a 15-year-old boy in an amazing way. You'll love this tale.
September 30, 2012
A very fun read! :-) Full review to come.
November 15, 2015
Awesome! More detailed review to come...
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