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Keeper Chance and the Conundrum of Chaos
For graduates of Percy Jackson comes the adventure-filled story of an average boy offered a life of villainy that’s about good vs. evil, mischief vs. mayhem, and making your mark on the world, by acclaimed author Alex Evanovich. If you’ve ever lost a sock in the dryer, it might have been the work of the Evil Villains International League, EVIL. And if your feet smell so bad, they keep you from making friends, good news! You might be invited to join. After growing up in the care of his nagging grandmother and coasting through school with a mediocre GPA, Keeper Chance gets invited to try out for a spot in his local chapter of EVIL. Keeper’s not sure his unremarkable life makes him villain material, but things get more remarkable, and fast, when Keeper and another new recruit, Toby, face the chapter’s first test—and disasters begin to snowball. As cookies and members of EVIL go missing, a mysterious girl named Y who doesn’t miss anything joins Keeper and Toby’s efforts. Despite the urgency of his mission, Keeper still can’t shake the question of why he was chosen for the league when he’s nothing special. As Keeper races against the clock to save his new friends, nothing is easy, and nothing is ever as it seems. Can he uncover his true nature in time to ensure the survival of villainy—or does his true destiny follow a different path?
336 pages, Hardcover
Published October 8, 2024
17 people are currently reading
2427 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
December 18, 2024
Where was Keeper Chance when I was a teenager? The few adventure books featuring teen boys were centered on teen boys that were so capable and smart that I wondered if they were built rather then concieved. Keeper is your average everyday teen. His life is rather uneventful until recruited by the leader of the 626 of Evil Villians International League, Chaos. The league can best be described as misfits with unusual talents that somehow saving others or themselves when their missions puts their lives at stake. Keeper and his fellow new recruit, Toby, are sent to pick up some cookies at the Villian's favorite cookie ship. They immediately notice something is wrong when the shop appears to be abandoned and the shop's owner is missing. The discovery leads them to their first case which involves stolen money and members of Chaos who suddenly dissapear. There are some outrageously funny moments and touching moments that will satisfy the most pick of teen readers. What's most refreshing about Keeper is that he doesn't understand what his own talent is until the next to last chapter. His mission allows himself to discover his own hidden talents and that he's a more then average teenager. I've tried to read some of today's crop of teen fiction, but Keeper Chance is the first Teen book that I was able to relate to it's hero. I was just as awkward and unsure or myself when I was a teenager. I had a great time reading the first volume of the Keeper Chance series and look foward to reading about his next chaotic mission.
October 5, 2024
While this is billed as "for graduates of Percy Jackson" I would hardly compare the two. However, this was a fun older teen adventure book that kept the pages turning. Sounds like it might become a series, which I would absolutely continue to read.
Keeper Chance (I cannot get past the oddness of that name...) is a loner and he is firmly okay with that. He lives with his terror of a nana, who has the personality of a hobgoblin (his words) and rules his home with an iron fist. Everyone in town is scared of Nana. Keeper is approached for initiation into a chapter of E.V.IL. as he possesses some kind of special skill, unknown to him, that makes him appealing to this organization. This group of evil doers is more Dr. Evil from Austin Powers than some kind of nefarious group such like Batman's nemeses. They aim to inconvenience people, not completely destroy them for the sheer joy of being a psycho. It's kind of endearing.
Anyway, Keeper is recruited to join and meets Toby, a clear-cut nerd with several special powers and the two quickly become friends. What begins as a harmless initiation crime of stealing cookies from a warehouse turns into a much grander scheme when the cookie maker is kidnapped and members of the E.V.I.L. chapter are going missing. Keeper and Toby are swept into a heroic (yet slightly evil) quest to save the baker and chapter members.
All the characters in this book are endearing, even the bad guy (sorta). I enjoyed the imaginative names and skills of the E.V.I.L members and their formal meetings. The book had me laughing in several places. Alex Evanovich knows how to write adventure suitable for younger audiences. This was a delight to read and if there are more, I would surely love to see what else happens in the 626 chapter of E.V.I.L.
Thank you to Simon and Schuester Books for Young Readers and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Keeper Chance (I cannot get past the oddness of that name...) is a loner and he is firmly okay with that. He lives with his terror of a nana, who has the personality of a hobgoblin (his words) and rules his home with an iron fist. Everyone in town is scared of Nana. Keeper is approached for initiation into a chapter of E.V.IL. as he possesses some kind of special skill, unknown to him, that makes him appealing to this organization. This group of evil doers is more Dr. Evil from Austin Powers than some kind of nefarious group such like Batman's nemeses. They aim to inconvenience people, not completely destroy them for the sheer joy of being a psycho. It's kind of endearing.
Anyway, Keeper is recruited to join and meets Toby, a clear-cut nerd with several special powers and the two quickly become friends. What begins as a harmless initiation crime of stealing cookies from a warehouse turns into a much grander scheme when the cookie maker is kidnapped and members of the E.V.I.L. chapter are going missing. Keeper and Toby are swept into a heroic (yet slightly evil) quest to save the baker and chapter members.
All the characters in this book are endearing, even the bad guy (sorta). I enjoyed the imaginative names and skills of the E.V.I.L members and their formal meetings. The book had me laughing in several places. Alex Evanovich knows how to write adventure suitable for younger audiences. This was a delight to read and if there are more, I would surely love to see what else happens in the 626 chapter of E.V.I.L.
Thank you to Simon and Schuester Books for Young Readers and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 13, 2024
While this was a fun middle grade story, it feels disingenuous to compare this to Percy Jackson. I would compare it more to the Alex Rider series or even City Spies, books in which kids are recruited to join an elite secret organization.
I loved that this books subverts the "good vs evil" trope. While the E.V.I.L. villains are evil in name they are a lawful evil: they try not to hurt people or animals, they don't harm other villains, and they operate like a family, helping each other out as needed. Meanwhile, there are "good guys" who don't seem to care who gets caught up in their schemes.
The E.V.I.L. villains are cartoonish in nature, with silly skills like sucking the fun out of situations or being able to haggle prices, and the initiation process involves stealing cookies. It has Despicable Me vibes, which is lots of fun, and the story has low/moderate stakes.
I liked the idea that this organization basically recruits misfits and into a sort of family. I also liked the healthy friendship between Toby and Keeper.
A minor gripe: it was an odd choice to make a middle grade protagonist sixteen years old at the start of the series, especially given that the tone of the book seems targeted at a younger audience.
But overall, the book is fun and an easy read.
I received an advanced review copy of this book from the publisher.
I loved that this books subverts the "good vs evil" trope. While the E.V.I.L. villains are evil in name they are a lawful evil: they try not to hurt people or animals, they don't harm other villains, and they operate like a family, helping each other out as needed. Meanwhile, there are "good guys" who don't seem to care who gets caught up in their schemes.
The E.V.I.L. villains are cartoonish in nature, with silly skills like sucking the fun out of situations or being able to haggle prices, and the initiation process involves stealing cookies. It has Despicable Me vibes, which is lots of fun, and the story has low/moderate stakes.
I liked the idea that this organization basically recruits misfits and into a sort of family. I also liked the healthy friendship between Toby and Keeper.
A minor gripe: it was an odd choice to make a middle grade protagonist sixteen years old at the start of the series, especially given that the tone of the book seems targeted at a younger audience.
But overall, the book is fun and an easy read.
I received an advanced review copy of this book from the publisher.
September 6, 2024
This was an excellent middle grade book. I enjoyed following sixteen year old Keeper Chance in this story as he joins the crime organization, E.V.I.L. This book has an intriguing plot and a great group of characters. I really enjoyed the overall concept of this story and thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I think middle grade readers will love reading this one when it comes out on October 8th.
Thank you to Simon Kids for the gifted arc.
Thank you to Simon Kids for the gifted arc.
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November 18, 2024An elite E.V.I.L. organization where homemade chocolate chip cookies are required for the initiation ceremony, and said cookie baker needs rescuing, this book called to me :)
November 18, 2024
I have no idea what this book is supposed to be. I *think* it’s supposed to be humorous, but it goes back and forth between what could be humor and seriousness and I get lost in between. The writing is also subpar. There are too many books to read to keep reading this one.
December 5, 2024
This review originally published in Looking For a Good Book. Rated 2.5 of 5
Keeper Chance doesn't know what life holds in store for him, but he does know that he isn't enjoying school and he really isn't enjoying his grandmother nagging him about it, so when he's approached by a member of E.V.I.L. (Evil Villains International League) with an offer to join their ranks (as a trainee). It sounds interesting enough that he chooses to move forward, meeting another trainee, Toby, who's excited by the opportunity, having wanted to join EVIL for as long as he can remember. Their first EVIL mission, which could dictate whether or not they'll ever become full members ... steal enough cookies for the membership meeting. This should be pretty easy and straightforward, but the life as an EVIL henchman always takes disastrous turns.
During their EVIL efforts, Chance and Toby encounter the enigmatic girl, Y, who's perhaps more capable than either boy. The simple crime of stealing cookies quickly snowballs into something much more dangerous and Keeper Chance, Toby, and Y will learn more about themselves, and each other as they look to a future with E.V.I.L.
I was not enthralled with this book.
First, I have to admit that I am not a fan that in any way supports or makes heroes of criminals. This can be a gray area, I know. Is Robin Hood a criminal? The difference is that Keeper Chance is willingly choosing evil and crime for selfish purposes rather than doing something criminal for moral good. Keeper's moral compass, at least, is still seeking its direction which provides some hope for a positive outcome, but it looks like we're going to have to read more than just one book to see that come to fruition, which is, frankly, more than I'm willing to give.
Aside from what I would consider a questionable lead character (the best character in the book is Y - now if this were HER story, I might have much more positive feelings about the book) we really have some goofy scenarios. E.V.I.L. comes across more like C.H.U.M.P. - Criminal Headquarters for Underworld Master Plan (anyone else old enough to remember Lancelot Link, Secret Chimp?). Okay, I get it, this is a light-hearted, YA, spy-comedy, but ... is it really?
I'm not clear on whether or not to take any of this seriously (stealing cookies is the big mission?) or not. It's goofy and silly, and yet Keeper Chance is making a big, life-changing decision. As is Toby (though he's made that decision long ago). Evil is where it's at! Let's be bad guys! Yeah! ...This is not simple comedy.
I have no doubt that there's an audience out there for this book. Kids who read are always looking for books with characters who 'get' them. But I have to think (or hope?) that kids who read aren't also the same kids who are thinking that 'evil' is the more fun way to go.
Looking for a good book? Keeper Chance and the Conundrum of Chaos by Alex Evanovich is a YA adventure with 'bad' boys and a club geared toward evil as the central figures.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Keeper Chance doesn't know what life holds in store for him, but he does know that he isn't enjoying school and he really isn't enjoying his grandmother nagging him about it, so when he's approached by a member of E.V.I.L. (Evil Villains International League) with an offer to join their ranks (as a trainee). It sounds interesting enough that he chooses to move forward, meeting another trainee, Toby, who's excited by the opportunity, having wanted to join EVIL for as long as he can remember. Their first EVIL mission, which could dictate whether or not they'll ever become full members ... steal enough cookies for the membership meeting. This should be pretty easy and straightforward, but the life as an EVIL henchman always takes disastrous turns.
During their EVIL efforts, Chance and Toby encounter the enigmatic girl, Y, who's perhaps more capable than either boy. The simple crime of stealing cookies quickly snowballs into something much more dangerous and Keeper Chance, Toby, and Y will learn more about themselves, and each other as they look to a future with E.V.I.L.
I was not enthralled with this book.
First, I have to admit that I am not a fan that in any way supports or makes heroes of criminals. This can be a gray area, I know. Is Robin Hood a criminal? The difference is that Keeper Chance is willingly choosing evil and crime for selfish purposes rather than doing something criminal for moral good. Keeper's moral compass, at least, is still seeking its direction which provides some hope for a positive outcome, but it looks like we're going to have to read more than just one book to see that come to fruition, which is, frankly, more than I'm willing to give.
Aside from what I would consider a questionable lead character (the best character in the book is Y - now if this were HER story, I might have much more positive feelings about the book) we really have some goofy scenarios. E.V.I.L. comes across more like C.H.U.M.P. - Criminal Headquarters for Underworld Master Plan (anyone else old enough to remember Lancelot Link, Secret Chimp?). Okay, I get it, this is a light-hearted, YA, spy-comedy, but ... is it really?
I'm not clear on whether or not to take any of this seriously (stealing cookies is the big mission?) or not. It's goofy and silly, and yet Keeper Chance is making a big, life-changing decision. As is Toby (though he's made that decision long ago). Evil is where it's at! Let's be bad guys! Yeah! ...This is not simple comedy.
I have no doubt that there's an audience out there for this book. Kids who read are always looking for books with characters who 'get' them. But I have to think (or hope?) that kids who read aren't also the same kids who are thinking that 'evil' is the more fun way to go.
Looking for a good book? Keeper Chance and the Conundrum of Chaos by Alex Evanovich is a YA adventure with 'bad' boys and a club geared toward evil as the central figures.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
June 23, 2024
What worked:
The most interesting part of the book is watching Keeper join a criminal organization called E.V.I.L. even though he’s not really an evil person. It turns out Chaos has been monitoring his development since birth due to Keeper’s family heritage. Keeper lives with his grandmother and she cannot be described as a sweet, old lady. She verbally abuses him so Keeper feels some justification for hiding a stinky fish carcass under the mat inside her car. He’s an inventive boy with a kind heart and it’s surprising when he’s drawn to the thieves in Chapter 626 of E.V.I.L. Well, he likes everyone there except Tsunami.
Each villain has a special talent although they may not be what readers expect. Keeper’s fellow recruit named Toby has super sensitive smelling and hearing but one of the villain’s talents is talking people into selling their products at lower prices. Keeper is unaware of his own specialty but Chaos thinks it’s worth the effort to keep an eye on him. Could luck or finding things be Keeper’s special talent or might it be something he can actually control? Could it be the Force like in Star Wars? A young girl named Y is also watching Keeper and she’s the dissatisfied daughter of a sensei. Her father happens to be the nemesis of E.V.I.L. so Y’s actions and interest in Keeper add intrigue to the plot.
Readers may find themselves questioning the identity of the protagonists and antagonists. The members of E.V.I.L. will not be what readers expect when they hear Chaos talk about their rules and missions. The first rule is that members will not harm people or animals. The villains become very upset and angry when Cookie Maven stops making their favorite treats. On the other hand, the sensei uses questionable tactics as he tries to convince Keeper to join his dojo. Y doesn’t think it’s in Keeper’s best interests to do that and she thinks he’ll be better off with E.V.I.L. This will make readers wonder, who are the good guys and who are the bad?
What didn’t work as well:
The story could easily work with younger characters so it’s unclear why high school students are used in a middle-grade novel. The kids are around sixteen years old which unnecessarily makes them different from younger readers. It’s not like they behave more maturely and there’s no violence or sexuality that might be inappropriate. It’s not wrong to have sixteen-year-old main characters but it doesn’t work as well as it might.
The final verdict:
This humorous adventure will amuse young readers as they follow Keeper’s journey to find his place in the world. The colorful characters and unusual plot create hilarious situations that will challenge what readers are used to. I recommend you give this book a shot!
The most interesting part of the book is watching Keeper join a criminal organization called E.V.I.L. even though he’s not really an evil person. It turns out Chaos has been monitoring his development since birth due to Keeper’s family heritage. Keeper lives with his grandmother and she cannot be described as a sweet, old lady. She verbally abuses him so Keeper feels some justification for hiding a stinky fish carcass under the mat inside her car. He’s an inventive boy with a kind heart and it’s surprising when he’s drawn to the thieves in Chapter 626 of E.V.I.L. Well, he likes everyone there except Tsunami.
Each villain has a special talent although they may not be what readers expect. Keeper’s fellow recruit named Toby has super sensitive smelling and hearing but one of the villain’s talents is talking people into selling their products at lower prices. Keeper is unaware of his own specialty but Chaos thinks it’s worth the effort to keep an eye on him. Could luck or finding things be Keeper’s special talent or might it be something he can actually control? Could it be the Force like in Star Wars? A young girl named Y is also watching Keeper and she’s the dissatisfied daughter of a sensei. Her father happens to be the nemesis of E.V.I.L. so Y’s actions and interest in Keeper add intrigue to the plot.
Readers may find themselves questioning the identity of the protagonists and antagonists. The members of E.V.I.L. will not be what readers expect when they hear Chaos talk about their rules and missions. The first rule is that members will not harm people or animals. The villains become very upset and angry when Cookie Maven stops making their favorite treats. On the other hand, the sensei uses questionable tactics as he tries to convince Keeper to join his dojo. Y doesn’t think it’s in Keeper’s best interests to do that and she thinks he’ll be better off with E.V.I.L. This will make readers wonder, who are the good guys and who are the bad?
What didn’t work as well:
The story could easily work with younger characters so it’s unclear why high school students are used in a middle-grade novel. The kids are around sixteen years old which unnecessarily makes them different from younger readers. It’s not like they behave more maturely and there’s no violence or sexuality that might be inappropriate. It’s not wrong to have sixteen-year-old main characters but it doesn’t work as well as it might.
The final verdict:
This humorous adventure will amuse young readers as they follow Keeper’s journey to find his place in the world. The colorful characters and unusual plot create hilarious situations that will challenge what readers are used to. I recommend you give this book a shot!
October 29, 2024
First, I am not the target audience. Although my favorite book genre is middle grade and I read it widely, sometimes a book doesn’t work for me as a reader when I think the target audience wouldn’t have a problem with it. I think this may be one of those books.
I was bored reading a lot of this book. It wasn’t necessary because things weren’t happening. It just seemed like it was trying so hard to be quirky, fun, and adventurous that I was annoyed. Again, there’s a decent amount that I could attribute to not being the target audience. But I love the Percy Jackson books and others that this book has been compared to, and I thought those books did it well without being annoying.
The adult characters all seemed like over-the-top Batman villains. The kid characters don’t make sense to me. They’re just too old to be acting the way they are, and why are high school characters the main characters in an obviously middle grade book? The age mismatch with the story makes it hard to figure out the best audience. Middle school boys? Or high school boys who want easier reads? It doesn’t perfectly fit any group.
I also just didn’t understand a lot of the motivations. Why is Keeper so important? Why is stealing cookies the mission? How, exactly, is this organization supposed to be evil when it just seems like they’re low-effort troublemakers at best? EVIL seemed like the equivalent of Dr Doofenshmirtz trying desperately to be the evilest villain of all but being terrible about it, except it worked for Doofenshmirtz and just annoyed me here. Why is the group against EVIL (so… theoretically good guys?) actually the most villainous people in the book? Maybe the point is that what is good and evil might be complicated sometimes, but if so, why is EVIL so determined to say it’s an evil villain organization while, again, not really doing much worse than stealing cookies and causing light mischief? Maybe some of those questions were even answered and I was just trying so hard to finish the book I accidentally skipped over them.
To summarize, while this book wasn’t for me, I do think there is an audience that will love it. I don’t think it should be compared to Percy Jackson, and I wouldn’t recommend it to the young readers in my life, but I hope it finds the people who will enjoy it most.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the free copy in exchange for my honest review. The opinions are my own and were not influenced by receiving a copy.
I was bored reading a lot of this book. It wasn’t necessary because things weren’t happening. It just seemed like it was trying so hard to be quirky, fun, and adventurous that I was annoyed. Again, there’s a decent amount that I could attribute to not being the target audience. But I love the Percy Jackson books and others that this book has been compared to, and I thought those books did it well without being annoying.
The adult characters all seemed like over-the-top Batman villains. The kid characters don’t make sense to me. They’re just too old to be acting the way they are, and why are high school characters the main characters in an obviously middle grade book? The age mismatch with the story makes it hard to figure out the best audience. Middle school boys? Or high school boys who want easier reads? It doesn’t perfectly fit any group.
I also just didn’t understand a lot of the motivations. Why is Keeper so important? Why is stealing cookies the mission? How, exactly, is this organization supposed to be evil when it just seems like they’re low-effort troublemakers at best? EVIL seemed like the equivalent of Dr Doofenshmirtz trying desperately to be the evilest villain of all but being terrible about it, except it worked for Doofenshmirtz and just annoyed me here. Why is the group against EVIL (so… theoretically good guys?) actually the most villainous people in the book? Maybe the point is that what is good and evil might be complicated sometimes, but if so, why is EVIL so determined to say it’s an evil villain organization while, again, not really doing much worse than stealing cookies and causing light mischief? Maybe some of those questions were even answered and I was just trying so hard to finish the book I accidentally skipped over them.
To summarize, while this book wasn’t for me, I do think there is an audience that will love it. I don’t think it should be compared to Percy Jackson, and I wouldn’t recommend it to the young readers in my life, but I hope it finds the people who will enjoy it most.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the free copy in exchange for my honest review. The opinions are my own and were not influenced by receiving a copy.
February 18, 2025
Alex Evanovich delivers a fun and fast-paced debut with Keeper Chance: The Chaos Conundrum, a delightful mix of action, fantasy, and humor. The story follows Keeper, a teenage genius who keeps his intelligence hidden while living with his hobgoblin nana. Determined to stay under the radar, Keeper unexpectedly finds himself recruited by E.V.I.L. (Evil Villains International League) alongside his new ally, Toby, for an unusual heist—stealing the world’s best cookies. However, what starts as a lighthearted mission quickly takes a dangerous turn when the boys uncover a plot to destroy their local E.V.I.L. chapter. Meanwhile, Keeper is being secretly watched over by Whylene (Y) Love, who has her own reasons for protecting him.
This book is a fantastic adventure filled with likable characters, witty dialogue, and a refreshing take on the idea that maybe villains aren’t always as evil as they seem. The action keeps the story moving, and the humor adds just the right balance to the intrigue. Marketed as a great pick for Percy Jackson fans, I absolutely agree, and I’d also recommend it to readers who enjoy James Ponti, Stuart Gibbs, Jenny Nimmo’s Charlie Bone series, and Harry Potter.
I truly enjoyed this debut and hope the series gains traction—Evanovich has created a world and characters that deserve more books! I hope to see this title on many state reading award lists.
This book is a fantastic adventure filled with likable characters, witty dialogue, and a refreshing take on the idea that maybe villains aren’t always as evil as they seem. The action keeps the story moving, and the humor adds just the right balance to the intrigue. Marketed as a great pick for Percy Jackson fans, I absolutely agree, and I’d also recommend it to readers who enjoy James Ponti, Stuart Gibbs, Jenny Nimmo’s Charlie Bone series, and Harry Potter.
I truly enjoyed this debut and hope the series gains traction—Evanovich has created a world and characters that deserve more books! I hope to see this title on many state reading award lists.
December 25, 2024
So many books are compared to Percy Jackson, this one included. Really, the comparison leaves a lot for a book and it's characters to stand up to. Keeper Chance lives with his very controlling Nana, who everyone knows to be afraid of. Chaos has followed Keeper all his life and has long admired Keeper's father who disappeared mysteriously when Keeper was very young. Chaos is head of Chapter 626 of Evil Villains International League, an organization described as “necessary evil”. Really, they appear to be an organized group of misfits who do not mean harm to anyone except those with ill intent. Keeper is recruited into the organization, because really, what other choices present themselves to him? He and another new recruit, Toby, work well together and a chance discovery leads them to solving their first case.
This is a refreshing look at villainy. It seems to me that Keeper, Toby and Y - along with Chaos, really are kind of the good guys in a villainous world. It's a fun, not-to-serious look at the life of those who might just be labeled misfits in the ordinary world.
This is a refreshing look at villainy. It seems to me that Keeper, Toby and Y - along with Chaos, really are kind of the good guys in a villainous world. It's a fun, not-to-serious look at the life of those who might just be labeled misfits in the ordinary world.
June 19, 2024
I received a free eARC of this book. Thank you for the opportunity to read it and review it.
Keeper Chance has a major problem. His grandmother, who doesn't really want him to do anything, or have an interesting life. He maintains his exactly 75% average (could get 100%, but why invite attention) and fliesunder the radar...
Until he's invited to join EVIL. Who turn out to...well, not be so evil, as is shown when Keeper (and his fellow apprentice in EVIL, Toby)'s initiation turns up a much bigger plan.
A fun adventure novel that will definitely appeal to MG boys who like Percy Jackson...or potty humor. This book would be welcome in libraries and classroom collections, although it probably won't make it on the core curriculum list any time soon. Is it the most consequential book ever? No. Does it do the job of likely making kids want to read? Yes. Does it have the potential to be a well loved series, yes.
Keeper Chance has a major problem. His grandmother, who doesn't really want him to do anything, or have an interesting life. He maintains his exactly 75% average (could get 100%, but why invite attention) and fliesunder the radar...
Until he's invited to join EVIL. Who turn out to...well, not be so evil, as is shown when Keeper (and his fellow apprentice in EVIL, Toby)'s initiation turns up a much bigger plan.
A fun adventure novel that will definitely appeal to MG boys who like Percy Jackson...or potty humor. This book would be welcome in libraries and classroom collections, although it probably won't make it on the core curriculum list any time soon. Is it the most consequential book ever? No. Does it do the job of likely making kids want to read? Yes. Does it have the potential to be a well loved series, yes.
August 16, 2024
Keeper is being raised by his nagging grandmother and does OK in school without really trying. When out of the blue a very strange guy approaches him and invites him to a EVIL meeting. When he gets there he meets another recruit named Toby and together their test is to steal several books of a certain cookie for their initiation party. Keeper doesn’t think he has anything special to offer but goes with it anyways. But what they find in the cookie boxes is not what was expected and neither is his new friends disappearing. It is up to Keeper, Toby, and a mysterious girl named Y to solve the mystery save the others and they still need to get those cookies.
Wonderful middle grade book for everyone it is a great book with awesome characters, and full of action. I can't wait to see what happens next with Keeper and his friends.
This book was provided by netgalley for reviewing purpose.
Wonderful middle grade book for everyone it is a great book with awesome characters, and full of action. I can't wait to see what happens next with Keeper and his friends.
This book was provided by netgalley for reviewing purpose.
October 14, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing for the advanced copy.
Keeper Chance has lived most of his life with his nagging grandma, so when he is approached by the head of E.V.I.L., Keeper decides this may be his way out. Together with fellow new recruit Toby and another mysterious person who claims she is not a recruit, even though Chaos certainly seems to know who she is, they will fight to be sure that evil endures.
The cast of characters in this book is delightful and varied. Keeper is a lovable mess that you will not be able to help but root for. This book also provides an interesting take on good versus evil where the lines are blurred and you’re not really sure who the bad guys are.
I recommend this book for students who are looking for something unique and different. With plenty of laughs and fun, as well as a good measure of chaos and excitement, this book is sure to delight.
Keeper Chance has lived most of his life with his nagging grandma, so when he is approached by the head of E.V.I.L., Keeper decides this may be his way out. Together with fellow new recruit Toby and another mysterious person who claims she is not a recruit, even though Chaos certainly seems to know who she is, they will fight to be sure that evil endures.
The cast of characters in this book is delightful and varied. Keeper is a lovable mess that you will not be able to help but root for. This book also provides an interesting take on good versus evil where the lines are blurred and you’re not really sure who the bad guys are.
I recommend this book for students who are looking for something unique and different. With plenty of laughs and fun, as well as a good measure of chaos and excitement, this book is sure to delight.
September 20, 2024
What a wonderful adventure story of funny flatulence and a frolicky good time!
To be a high school student getting straight B's, with the mind of a genius and no friends to count on, being approached by a villain may seem like a turn you'd want to avoid. But if you want a box of cookies as badly as Keeper does, you simply go all in.
Filled with kidnappings, young love and family dysfunction, while I think this story is a little much for an average ten year old, I think it's perfect for those in high school who are on the hunt for their unique factor.
I loved the characters with their flaws, the mystery of who is good and who truly is E.V.I.L., the action, suspense and emotional ride. A creative look at superheroes, skills and a imaginative look at reality, hard decisions and small steps, along with the sweetness of caramel coffee cookies.
To be a high school student getting straight B's, with the mind of a genius and no friends to count on, being approached by a villain may seem like a turn you'd want to avoid. But if you want a box of cookies as badly as Keeper does, you simply go all in.
Filled with kidnappings, young love and family dysfunction, while I think this story is a little much for an average ten year old, I think it's perfect for those in high school who are on the hunt for their unique factor.
I loved the characters with their flaws, the mystery of who is good and who truly is E.V.I.L., the action, suspense and emotional ride. A creative look at superheroes, skills and a imaginative look at reality, hard decisions and small steps, along with the sweetness of caramel coffee cookies.
December 18, 2024
Thank you, Simonschusterca, for this free book in exchange for my honest review!
Rating: 3.74 ✨
I guess I can see why this book is marketed as “for graduates of Percy Jackson” I wouldn’t say they are the same (far from it) but I did have some fun while I was reading this. The humour was top tier in my opinion and I liked the plot AND characters.
This is a serious case of: if you liked pjo, try this. I’m going to have so much fun recommending this to people.
Book: Keeper chance and the conundrum of chaos is a middle grade book following Keeper chance and his friends as they work together to find their missing friends as new recruits in an organization called E.V.I.L.
I wonder if this book is going to have a second one because it was an enjoyable read and I would like to jump into this world again.
Rating: 3.74 ✨
I guess I can see why this book is marketed as “for graduates of Percy Jackson” I wouldn’t say they are the same (far from it) but I did have some fun while I was reading this. The humour was top tier in my opinion and I liked the plot AND characters.
This is a serious case of: if you liked pjo, try this. I’m going to have so much fun recommending this to people.
Book: Keeper chance and the conundrum of chaos is a middle grade book following Keeper chance and his friends as they work together to find their missing friends as new recruits in an organization called E.V.I.L.
I wonder if this book is going to have a second one because it was an enjoyable read and I would like to jump into this world again.
June 24, 2025
(Actual rating: 3.5 stars)
This narrative focuses on the absurd with plenty of slapstick comedy. Evanovich created quite an enjoyable world in which certain people have gifts that some use for villainy so much so that different chapters of villains exist with each member having a talent and a code name associated with that talent. Keeper ends up getting recruited with another boy named Toby but unknown to Keeper, another person does not want him to join and sends his daughter to stop him. I could attempt to try to explain more of the parts of the plot but the review would end up descending into inanity. Picture Saturday morning cartoon villains a la Pinky and the Brain. This narrative does not go deep at all; not ever book needs to. This was a fun romp.
This narrative focuses on the absurd with plenty of slapstick comedy. Evanovich created quite an enjoyable world in which certain people have gifts that some use for villainy so much so that different chapters of villains exist with each member having a talent and a code name associated with that talent. Keeper ends up getting recruited with another boy named Toby but unknown to Keeper, another person does not want him to join and sends his daughter to stop him. I could attempt to try to explain more of the parts of the plot but the review would end up descending into inanity. Picture Saturday morning cartoon villains a la Pinky and the Brain. This narrative does not go deep at all; not ever book needs to. This was a fun romp.
September 13, 2024
There is evil in the world, that Keeper Chance knows well. But then he gets an invitation to join E.V.I.L. (Evil Villains International League), Out of curiosity, he shows up and meets Toby who really want to join. But to become a member, they need to provide a particular set of cookies. But that goes awry leading to Y's involvement, dog-napping, villain-napping, a very strange toiletry store, and plenty of adventures leading up to a massive fight against a true villain! I look forward to more adventures with Keeper, Toby, and Y!
Thanks Netgalley and Simon & Schuster for the opportunity to read this title!
Thanks Netgalley and Simon & Schuster for the opportunity to read this title!
December 14, 2024
Thank you Simon and Schuster for Young Readers for sending me this book.
Keeper Chance has a special skill, but he doesn't know what it is. He is being recruited by a group of Evil Villains and chased by a ninja. A rogue villain enters the scene. Will he save his new friends? Will he find his super skill? And most importantly, will he finally get to taste those cookies?
This was a great book. So relieved to read a book for pleasure when so many books for this age group contain serious and depressing topics. A clean book with no agenda other than providing children with an enjoyable read. I am excited to add this one to our school library collection.
Keeper Chance has a special skill, but he doesn't know what it is. He is being recruited by a group of Evil Villains and chased by a ninja. A rogue villain enters the scene. Will he save his new friends? Will he find his super skill? And most importantly, will he finally get to taste those cookies?
This was a great book. So relieved to read a book for pleasure when so many books for this age group contain serious and depressing topics. A clean book with no agenda other than providing children with an enjoyable read. I am excited to add this one to our school library collection.
August 19, 2024
I don't read a lot of young adult books these days but saw this one offered and decided to give this one a try. Overall I enjoyed this book. I liked "meeting" the villains and their interaction with Keeper, Toby and Y. I'm not certain about the kidnapping of the Cookie Maven being of interest to young adults but maybe they'll be more interested than I think. It was an interesting enough story (at least in my opinion). Not sure I agree with the comparison to Percy Jackson but again that is my opinion. Give this one a try in October 2024.
August 21, 2024
Keeper Chance is a likeable teenager ready to leave high school who lives with his Nana because his parents are deceased. The book is not something I think I would have read when I was ten years old [the suggested 'started' age on the back of the book], but I really liked it. Nana is the only character that is really nasty, but I tried not to take offense.
I enjoyed all of the other characters -the good and the EVIL! The action is great. Pay attention or you may miss something! And the ending was comforting.
I won this paperback advance readers copy in a Goodreads giveaway.
I enjoyed all of the other characters -the good and the EVIL! The action is great. Pay attention or you may miss something! And the ending was comforting.
I won this paperback advance readers copy in a Goodreads giveaway.
February 19, 2025
Κάπως χαοτικό μεν, ιδιαίτερα διασκεδαστικό δε. Μια ιστορία με πολλούς ενδιαφέροντες κι απολαυστικούς χαρακτήρες, με έντονη δράση και γρήγορη αφηγηματική ροή που δεν σε αφήνει να βαρεθείς ούτε για μια στιγμή. Δεν είμαι απόλυτα βέβαιη για το ποιο είναι το ουσιαστικό νόημα του πυρήνα του όλου concept, αλλά φαντάζομαι πως αυτό θα αναλυθεί περισσότερο στα επόμενα βιβλία της σειράς. Αντισυμβατικό, αστείο, γεμάτο ενέργεια, μα και με κάποια ψήγματα ρομαντισμού, δεν αποτελεί το καλύτερο βιβλίο του είδους του, αλλά σίγουρα απολαμβάνεις την ανάγνωσή του.
(Αναλυτικό review αν τελικά κυκλοφορήσει...)
(Αναλυτικό review αν τελικά κυκλοφορήσει...)
July 4, 2024
A well written enjoyable read. Keeper chance has a special talent and Chaos from the E.V.I.L. organization and Sensei also wants him for his dojo and has his daughter trying to bring him in the fold. Lots of interesting characters and good versus evil. Who is really bad and who is not. This is the beginning of what may be a well-loved series for young readers. Thanks #Netgalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
October 20, 2024
A really fun read.. This fast-paced adventure story kept me reading late and starting early the next morning. Between the villainous characters (who may or may not be E.V.I.L.) and the weird superpowers and the added mystery, it's a perfect nod to the superhero genre... with a twist. After all, who really knows who the bad guys are in real life?
My 11yo will love it! And I can't wait to read more.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 2, 2024
Keeper Chance and the Conundrum of Chaos is an enchanting story filled with intrigue, drama, trouble, and redemption. Keeper, Toby, the villains of Chapter 626, and Y are enjoyable. The situations they find themselves in are unique. There is plenty of action. A wholly fun read for teens and adults.
November 7, 2024
I know 52-year old women are not the target audience for this. If you have a 5th or 6th grader they might like this silly caper book.
That being said, I have read early reader/YA books that have been fun and entertaining and this one just misses the mark. Would have been 2 stars, but since I know it wasn't written for me, I didn't want to be punitive.
That being said, I have read early reader/YA books that have been fun and entertaining and this one just misses the mark. Would have been 2 stars, but since I know it wasn't written for me, I didn't want to be punitive.
December 3, 2024
Keeper Chance is getting the chance of a lifetime: the opportunity to get inducted into the local supervillain society to do what he’s good at, causing trouble. Things get complicated with a mysterious girl, a cookie box full of cash, and the sudden disappearances of supervillains in the area. Does Keeper have what it takes to solve this mystery, without being pulled too far into it?
January 1, 2026
I am not the target audience for this book. But I met the author and was impressed that she wrote it because she felt there weren't enough books out there that appealed to her son. So while this was not my type of book, I enjoyed it and felt it was something my son might have enjoyed in his younger days.
January 4, 2025
Since I've never lost a sock in the dryer but just recently lost a dishcloth in the washer, I decided to read this book. I liked Keeper and Toby but there was just too much bathroom humor here. I think middle school boys would probably like it.
October 20, 2024
Evil Villains International review
Great book, fun to read. Will recommend to my nephew. I liked the characters and the story line. Easy to read.
Great book, fun to read. Will recommend to my nephew. I liked the characters and the story line. Easy to read.
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