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The Sherlock Society #2
Hurricane Heist
When a hurricane uncovers new information in a cold case, the Sherlock Society investigates a decades-old heist in this second book in the action-packed and funny
New York Times
bestselling Sherlock Society middle grade series from Edgar Award–winning author James Ponti!
When a category three hurricane hits Miami Beach, it uncovers a body buried at the renowned Moroccan Hotel. The body is identified as the man who served as the hotel’s bell captain sixty years ago…and the presumed culprit of the million-dollar jewel heist that took place just before his disappearance.
Since the bell captain clearly didn’t take off with the goods as had been long believed, the Sherlock Society sets their sights on uncovering the real culprit of the theft. But when the thief may also be implicated in the bell captain’s murder, even sixty years later, there are people who want the truth to stay buried.
When a category three hurricane hits Miami Beach, it uncovers a body buried at the renowned Moroccan Hotel. The body is identified as the man who served as the hotel’s bell captain sixty years ago…and the presumed culprit of the million-dollar jewel heist that took place just before his disappearance.
Since the bell captain clearly didn’t take off with the goods as had been long believed, the Sherlock Society sets their sights on uncovering the real culprit of the theft. But when the thief may also be implicated in the bell captain’s murder, even sixty years later, there are people who want the truth to stay buried.
Audible Audio
Published September 2, 2025
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About the author
James Ponti
57 books1,436 followersJames Ponti is the New York Times Bestselling author of three Middle Grade book series: the DEAD CITY trilogy about a secret society that polices the undead who live beneath New York City; the Edgar Award-winning FRAMED! series about a pair of Sherlockian tweens who solve mysteries in Washington, D.C.; and the all-new CITY SPIES about an unlikely squad of five kids from around the world who form an elite MI6 spy team.
James grew up in Atlantic Beach, Florida and lives in Orlando. He's a die hard fan of the Boston Red Sox, the USC Trojans, and the Italian National Soccer Team. He loves travel, writing, and spending time with his amazing family.
James grew up in Atlantic Beach, Florida and lives in Orlando. He's a die hard fan of the Boston Red Sox, the USC Trojans, and the Italian National Soccer Team. He loves travel, writing, and spending time with his amazing family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
March 17, 2025
✰ 3.5 stars ✰
Who really stole the narrative was Alex's Grandpa, Pete. This time around, the case is deeply personal to him, a family-oriented crime that has him question his own capabilities as the esteemed Herald reporter he always considered himself, and whether or not he's doing right by entertaining his grandson with his pursuit of unsolved mysteries. 🥺 But, the author reminds us that it's never too late to make amends or even to reclaim those former days of glory to follow your passion and creative spirit.
What made the mystery slightly less enjoyable was that the clues were not laid out for the readers to figure out; it was only apparent to Alex and the other members of Sherlock Society to catch the issues to make their suspicions more plausible. That made it slightly more difficult for me to be fully immersed; not to say that I was not enjoying watching them lay out their speculations. 🕵🏻♀️ I just wished I could have been a more active participant in figuring out the mystery that remained unsolved by even the FBI that took place at the luxurious Moroccan Hotel, where Miami meets Marrakesh. 😕
“But, this being Florida, a general rule is that the stranger it is, the more likely it’s true.”
When I began reading I felt like I was in an episode of Magic School Bus I do appreciate the love for Miami's rich history and the emphasis on the impact of hurricanes, as well as the well meaning explanations about them, especially with Hurricane Cleo on the horizon - intimidating, terrifying, yet somehow beautiful. 🌪️🌊 Yet the descriptions as well as the conversations between Alex and Lina and Yadi felt very technical, rather than a friend talking to a friend. It felt scripted and lacked heart. Maybe it is intentional, but I could have done without it, until the story started to show how deeply connected Pete was to the Hurricane Heist.
Where the narrative really shined was the dynamic between the members, as well as introducing new unlikely members to their society. The details to the past were vivid and believable, that I almost felt like it was a real deal. 👍🏻 The banter and interactions between Alex and co was fresh and lively and engaging. Lina, Yadi, Zoe, even Grandpa offered their own unique skill sets and perspectives that made it interesting to see their different theories laid out, each intent on rounding up the likely suspect.
“I may not have the brawn, but I have the brains.”
“To be honest, I’m a little concerned that you came up with a lie that good on the spot.”
Why this middle grade series proves to be a fun time is because I can't deny that it is fun to see history still impacting the younger generation, while also throwing their own snark and updated views on certain things - technology as a saving grace being one of them. Ponti's writing is very clear-cut in making the setting come alive through his characters' eyes. A lot of love, a lot of humor, and a lot of smartness to the storyline, with enough appeal that makes it feel like it's written for the intended audience definitely makes it a worthwhile read. ⭐
How I crafted this review is pretty much different than my norm - more so applying the Five W's and How, a system the Sherlock Society applies to get to the bottom of things. If that was not apparent enough, but just to leave off with a helpful tip. It is an unedited copy, so my rating does not reflect the two glaring pronoun typos that were caught by my eye, but I'm just highlighting them here, in case anyone from the publishing company DOES actually take the time to read reviewer feedback. 🤔
“What happened?” I asked, excited. - Pete was talking, not in the first person.
Zoe considered this. Lina was the one who had to consider what Zoe was saying.
Just thought I might help out. ☺️
*Thank you to Edelweiss for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
“‘Who? What? When? Where? Why?’ Those are the answers you seek... They’re the keys to solving the mysteries of the world.”
Who really stole the narrative was Alex's Grandpa, Pete. This time around, the case is deeply personal to him, a family-oriented crime that has him question his own capabilities as the esteemed Herald reporter he always considered himself, and whether or not he's doing right by entertaining his grandson with his pursuit of unsolved mysteries. 🥺 But, the author reminds us that it's never too late to make amends or even to reclaim those former days of glory to follow your passion and creative spirit.
What made the mystery slightly less enjoyable was that the clues were not laid out for the readers to figure out; it was only apparent to Alex and the other members of Sherlock Society to catch the issues to make their suspicions more plausible. That made it slightly more difficult for me to be fully immersed; not to say that I was not enjoying watching them lay out their speculations. 🕵🏻♀️ I just wished I could have been a more active participant in figuring out the mystery that remained unsolved by even the FBI that took place at the luxurious Moroccan Hotel, where Miami meets Marrakesh. 😕
“But, this being Florida, a general rule is that the stranger it is, the more likely it’s true.”
When I began reading I felt like I was in an episode of Magic School Bus I do appreciate the love for Miami's rich history and the emphasis on the impact of hurricanes, as well as the well meaning explanations about them, especially with Hurricane Cleo on the horizon - intimidating, terrifying, yet somehow beautiful. 🌪️🌊 Yet the descriptions as well as the conversations between Alex and Lina and Yadi felt very technical, rather than a friend talking to a friend. It felt scripted and lacked heart. Maybe it is intentional, but I could have done without it, until the story started to show how deeply connected Pete was to the Hurricane Heist.
Where the narrative really shined was the dynamic between the members, as well as introducing new unlikely members to their society. The details to the past were vivid and believable, that I almost felt like it was a real deal. 👍🏻 The banter and interactions between Alex and co was fresh and lively and engaging. Lina, Yadi, Zoe, even Grandpa offered their own unique skill sets and perspectives that made it interesting to see their different theories laid out, each intent on rounding up the likely suspect.
“I may not have the brawn, but I have the brains.”
“To be honest, I’m a little concerned that you came up with a lie that good on the spot.”
Why this middle grade series proves to be a fun time is because I can't deny that it is fun to see history still impacting the younger generation, while also throwing their own snark and updated views on certain things - technology as a saving grace being one of them. Ponti's writing is very clear-cut in making the setting come alive through his characters' eyes. A lot of love, a lot of humor, and a lot of smartness to the storyline, with enough appeal that makes it feel like it's written for the intended audience definitely makes it a worthwhile read. ⭐
How I crafted this review is pretty much different than my norm - more so applying the Five W's and How, a system the Sherlock Society applies to get to the bottom of things. If that was not apparent enough, but just to leave off with a helpful tip. It is an unedited copy, so my rating does not reflect the two glaring pronoun typos that were caught by my eye, but I'm just highlighting them here, in case anyone from the publishing company DOES actually take the time to read reviewer feedback. 🤔
“What happened?” I asked, excited. - Pete was talking, not in the first person.
Zoe considered this. Lina was the one who had to consider what Zoe was saying.
Just thought I might help out. ☺️
*Thank you to Edelweiss for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
August 20, 2025
Second in James Ponti’s new series, The Sherlock Society, Hurricane Heist does not disappoint. The Sherlock Society, made up of Alex, his slightly older sister Zoe, and good friends Lina and Yadi plus Alex/Zoe’s grandfather, are on the heels of solving their first crime/mystery, although their search for Al Capone’s supposed and missing treasure did end up as an investigation into counterfeiting and illegal dumping. This time, Ponti uses two hurricanes, one happening in 1964 when Grandpa was 12 and a big theft occurred at a fancy hotel and the other in the here and now when the body of the supposed thief from ‘64 is uncovered by the storm.
Ponti continues to develop middle grade/junior high characters who feel like they could easily be sitting alongside readers at school and the chemistry between the 4 members of the Sherlock Society works well, including the times when Alex and Zoe begin to bicker like siblings are prone to do and when Lina and Zoe have a bit of a dust up over friend choices. With Grandpa providing transportation, inspiration and skills rooting out the facts due to his successful career in journalism, the team attempts to have the closed robbery case reopened since it is obvious that the dead man did not commit the crime that supposedly ended with a flight overseas with the loot. But with the statute of limitations long passed, they seem to be the only ones. Perseverance pays off, clues and evidence begin to mount and soon a whole team of retired FBI agents joins the investigation. With each piece of information, both readers and the Sherlock Society will develop theories, toss them out and create new ones, right up until the real thief/thieves is/are revealed.
Excellent addition to a great series for those in grades 4-7ish. Text is free of profanity, sexual content and the manner of death for the accused thief is the only violence and the manner of that death is not graphic. Representation: positive role model demonstrated in several senior adults and Yadi speaks Spanish so his Hispanic heritage is implied.
Thanks for the eARC, Edelweiss and Simon & Schuster/Aladdin.
Ponti continues to develop middle grade/junior high characters who feel like they could easily be sitting alongside readers at school and the chemistry between the 4 members of the Sherlock Society works well, including the times when Alex and Zoe begin to bicker like siblings are prone to do and when Lina and Zoe have a bit of a dust up over friend choices. With Grandpa providing transportation, inspiration and skills rooting out the facts due to his successful career in journalism, the team attempts to have the closed robbery case reopened since it is obvious that the dead man did not commit the crime that supposedly ended with a flight overseas with the loot. But with the statute of limitations long passed, they seem to be the only ones. Perseverance pays off, clues and evidence begin to mount and soon a whole team of retired FBI agents joins the investigation. With each piece of information, both readers and the Sherlock Society will develop theories, toss them out and create new ones, right up until the real thief/thieves is/are revealed.
Excellent addition to a great series for those in grades 4-7ish. Text is free of profanity, sexual content and the manner of death for the accused thief is the only violence and the manner of that death is not graphic. Representation: positive role model demonstrated in several senior adults and Yadi speaks Spanish so his Hispanic heritage is implied.
Thanks for the eARC, Edelweiss and Simon & Schuster/Aladdin.
September 15, 2025
Genre: Middle Grade Mystery
Book 2 in a mystery series set in Florida where a group of kids solve cold cases with their grandfather.
This one based on a robbery during a hurricane. It was entertaining and gave fun facts about hurricanes.
Fun MG mystery series!
Book 2 in a mystery series set in Florida where a group of kids solve cold cases with their grandfather.
This one based on a robbery during a hurricane. It was entertaining and gave fun facts about hurricanes.
Fun MG mystery series!
October 1, 2025
The Sherlock Society: Hurricane Heist is a middle-grade mystery adventure novel. It’s the 2nd book in The Sherlock Society series, and the story picks up shortly after the events of book one. It's possible to read this book as a standalone, as the author gives detailed backstory as to what transpired in book 1!
The story begins as Hurricane Clyde tears through South Florida, churning up human remains linked to an unsolved 1964 hotel jewel heist and reopening a cold case that pulls The Sherlock Society members back into action. Soon, Alex, Zoe, their grandfather, and friends (Yadi and Lina) follow a breadcrumb trail of codes, ciphers, and long-buried motives in an attempt to solve the decades-old mystery!
The writing is snappy, funny, and surprisingly very intricate for a middle-grade mystery—even more so than the first book! The chapters are short, and many end in mini-cliffhangers that will keep readers furiously turning pages! The story has a dual timeline and dual POV—and both involve major South Florida hurricanes! In 1964, the story is told via 12-year-old Pete’s POV (Alex and Zoe’s grandfather) as he and his father are interrogated by the FBI after their hardware delivery coincides with real-life Hurricane Cleo and a jewel heist at the glamorous Moroccan Hotel! Alex’s present-day animated POV immerses readers as (fictional) Hurricane Clyde hits Miami, unearthing clues that revive the 1964 unsolved mystery!
The Sherlock Society’s dynamic is the real hook of the story, as each member brings something unique to the mystery-solving table—Alex’s incredible pattern-spotting, Zoe’s moxie, Yadi’s tech skills, Lina’s calming presence, and Grandpa’s journalist experience and community ties! Together they manage to come up with a list of suspects—each of whom has motives, dodgy alibis, and suspicious connections that could make them the culprit. It’s very much a puzzle plot mystery that will have even adult readers having a difficult time solving and keeping track of all the connections and intricacies—a makeshift evidence board is helpful here!
Just like in the first novel, James Ponti incorporates lots of interesting Miami/South Florida history and mentions of real-life figures, including Muhammad Ali, Elizabeth Taylor, and Al Capone, to help anchor the past timeline! The original FBI agents from 1964, now living in retirement homes, also make a reappearance late in the book—and the found family trope becomes even more pronounced! The mystery builds and becomes more complex in the second half and includes a few twists readers won’t see coming! The ending is satisfying and exciting—and also shows that The Sherlock Society’s mystery-solving days are just getting started!
Readers who enjoy (all-ages) fast-paced puzzle mysteries with brainy sleuths, teamwork, and a dash of danger will absolutely love this book and series!
The story begins as Hurricane Clyde tears through South Florida, churning up human remains linked to an unsolved 1964 hotel jewel heist and reopening a cold case that pulls The Sherlock Society members back into action. Soon, Alex, Zoe, their grandfather, and friends (Yadi and Lina) follow a breadcrumb trail of codes, ciphers, and long-buried motives in an attempt to solve the decades-old mystery!
The writing is snappy, funny, and surprisingly very intricate for a middle-grade mystery—even more so than the first book! The chapters are short, and many end in mini-cliffhangers that will keep readers furiously turning pages! The story has a dual timeline and dual POV—and both involve major South Florida hurricanes! In 1964, the story is told via 12-year-old Pete’s POV (Alex and Zoe’s grandfather) as he and his father are interrogated by the FBI after their hardware delivery coincides with real-life Hurricane Cleo and a jewel heist at the glamorous Moroccan Hotel! Alex’s present-day animated POV immerses readers as (fictional) Hurricane Clyde hits Miami, unearthing clues that revive the 1964 unsolved mystery!
The Sherlock Society’s dynamic is the real hook of the story, as each member brings something unique to the mystery-solving table—Alex’s incredible pattern-spotting, Zoe’s moxie, Yadi’s tech skills, Lina’s calming presence, and Grandpa’s journalist experience and community ties! Together they manage to come up with a list of suspects—each of whom has motives, dodgy alibis, and suspicious connections that could make them the culprit. It’s very much a puzzle plot mystery that will have even adult readers having a difficult time solving and keeping track of all the connections and intricacies—a makeshift evidence board is helpful here!
Just like in the first novel, James Ponti incorporates lots of interesting Miami/South Florida history and mentions of real-life figures, including Muhammad Ali, Elizabeth Taylor, and Al Capone, to help anchor the past timeline! The original FBI agents from 1964, now living in retirement homes, also make a reappearance late in the book—and the found family trope becomes even more pronounced! The mystery builds and becomes more complex in the second half and includes a few twists readers won’t see coming! The ending is satisfying and exciting—and also shows that The Sherlock Society’s mystery-solving days are just getting started!
Readers who enjoy (all-ages) fast-paced puzzle mysteries with brainy sleuths, teamwork, and a dash of danger will absolutely love this book and series!
June 14, 2025
The Sherlock Society, middle schoolers-Lina, Yadi, Zoe, Alex, along with former Miami Herald reporter- Grandpa Pete, are back on the case! This time Hurricane Clyde has unearthed a body. The body happens to belong to Ignatio Gonzalez, the man framed for a jewel heist back when Grandpa Pete was 12, and whom he has always believed was innocent. Using the 5 W's, teamwork, and the assistance of some retired FBI agents, the Sherlock Society is able to comb through evidence to try to unearth the true thief. Will they be able to succeed where the FBI failed all those years ago?
This was a delightful mystery with lots of twists and turns. The comradery of the kids and Grandpa is very charming. They have a great teamwork, and the connections that Grandpa has from his old reporter days make the evidence they have access to believable. I enjoyed the flashbacks to 1964 where we got to see young Pete when he knew Ignatio Gonzalez, and when he got inspired to become a reporter.
Any reader young or old who enjoys mysteries will like reading this next installment of the Sherlock Society. It is fun and exciting and you'll be rooting for their hijinks to succeed.
This was a delightful mystery with lots of twists and turns. The comradery of the kids and Grandpa is very charming. They have a great teamwork, and the connections that Grandpa has from his old reporter days make the evidence they have access to believable. I enjoyed the flashbacks to 1964 where we got to see young Pete when he knew Ignatio Gonzalez, and when he got inspired to become a reporter.
Any reader young or old who enjoys mysteries will like reading this next installment of the Sherlock Society. It is fun and exciting and you'll be rooting for their hijinks to succeed.
July 5, 2025
Ponti has written a fantastic Volume 2 for his Sherlock Society series—this one might be even better than the first. Ponti uses his signature style of dropping you in at the heart-pounding climax and then dropping you back where the story actually starts, this time alternating between present-day events and events that kick off the mystery in the 1960s. The dynamic between the 5 OG members of the Sherlock Society is even more developed, and I loved the element of recruiting new members. I can't wait to add this one to my classroom library shelves and am thrilled to have another Ponti series to recommend!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Aladdin for the digital ARC.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Aladdin for the digital ARC.
August 6, 2025
Hurricane Heist may be even better than the first Sherlock Society book! The story starts out on a cliffhanger,then keeps the pace moving fast. Alex and his sister, Zoe, along with their friends Lina and Yaddi solve a sixty year old mystery. With their grandpa as mentor, they learn to ask the right questions and bring the story full circle. There are heartfelt moments as Zoe and Lina navigate conflict on their friendship. We get a deeper peek into Grandpa while Grandpa always keeps the kids on the right side of the law. Add in an actual hurricane and the story can’t get much better!
April 30, 2025
Ponti's newest book is a fun story incorporating Grandpa's past in a mystery of stolen jewels and art. It's hurricane series but that's not stopping the Sherlock Society has a new case. When Grandpa was a boy, he was interviewed by the police about a heist at a local hotel during a hurricane. Now, new information has come to light and the kids are here to help this time!
Release Date: 9/2/2025
Release Date: 9/2/2025
June 23, 2025
James Ponti can do no wrong. Everything he writes is just great..suspenseful, fun, family & friend oriented, informative and exciting. This book is no
different and I highly recommend it!
I received a free E-ARC for my honest review from #NetGalley and #Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing
different and I highly recommend it!
I received a free E-ARC for my honest review from #NetGalley and #Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing
November 17, 2025
Intriguing, readable, and fun. I liked it even more than the first one. The flashbacks to Grandpa's first case got me all in my feels 🥹
Read
October 30, 2025
Trigger & Content Warnings
Dead body uncovered during a hurricane (theme)
Dead body uncovered during a hurricane (theme)
August 17, 2025
Review of The Sherlock Society: Hurricane Heist by James Ponti
James Ponti’s Hurricane Heist, the second book in the Sherlock Society series, is another clever, funny, and heartfelt mystery that proves this series has real staying power.
The story opens in the middle of the action, and then circles back to show how the characters arrived there. It’s a narrative choice Ponti has used before in the Framed! series, and it works brilliantly—it mirrors the feeling of solving a case, retracing steps and re-examining clues. Interestingly, it’s a technique he doesn’t lean on as much in City Spies, showing how carefully he tailors his storytelling to each series.
This installment blends history, humor, and family with Miami’s vibrant setting. Ponti brings the city to life—its energy, culture, and atmosphere are woven into the mystery, making it both educational and entertaining. My favorite detail was “The Bureau,” a nursing home that’s both playful and clever in name. Even little Easter eggs, like giving Lina’s mom the last name Glaser (a nod to author Karina Yan Glaser), reflect the thoughtful touches Ponti layers in.
The characters continue to shine. Lina, shy but brilliant, is a standout—she’s a big reader and natural investigator whose curiosity drives the team forward. Zoe balances intelligence with social flair, Yadi adds creativity and humor through his filmmaker’s perspective, and Alex has the puzzle-solving instincts that tie everything together. Grandpa Pete is as funny and wise as ever, often stealing the scene with his humor and heart.
The pacing is strongest in the middle, where the clue-hunting and teamwork are at their peak. Even without spoilers, I can say this: it’s clever, full of heart, and so much fun to unravel.
And I’m not the only one who loved it—my sister read it too and said she’d give it six stars if she could. I’d happily agree.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (and yes, an honorary sixth star from my sister!)
James Ponti’s Hurricane Heist, the second book in the Sherlock Society series, is another clever, funny, and heartfelt mystery that proves this series has real staying power.
The story opens in the middle of the action, and then circles back to show how the characters arrived there. It’s a narrative choice Ponti has used before in the Framed! series, and it works brilliantly—it mirrors the feeling of solving a case, retracing steps and re-examining clues. Interestingly, it’s a technique he doesn’t lean on as much in City Spies, showing how carefully he tailors his storytelling to each series.
This installment blends history, humor, and family with Miami’s vibrant setting. Ponti brings the city to life—its energy, culture, and atmosphere are woven into the mystery, making it both educational and entertaining. My favorite detail was “The Bureau,” a nursing home that’s both playful and clever in name. Even little Easter eggs, like giving Lina’s mom the last name Glaser (a nod to author Karina Yan Glaser), reflect the thoughtful touches Ponti layers in.
The characters continue to shine. Lina, shy but brilliant, is a standout—she’s a big reader and natural investigator whose curiosity drives the team forward. Zoe balances intelligence with social flair, Yadi adds creativity and humor through his filmmaker’s perspective, and Alex has the puzzle-solving instincts that tie everything together. Grandpa Pete is as funny and wise as ever, often stealing the scene with his humor and heart.
The pacing is strongest in the middle, where the clue-hunting and teamwork are at their peak. Even without spoilers, I can say this: it’s clever, full of heart, and so much fun to unravel.
And I’m not the only one who loved it—my sister read it too and said she’d give it six stars if she could. I’d happily agree.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (and yes, an honorary sixth star from my sister!)
August 25, 2025
Book Report: The Sherlock Society: Hurricane Heist
At First Glance: YAY Book 2 🙌🏻
The Gist: When a hurricane uncovers new information in a cold case, the Sherlock Society investigates a decades-old heist.
My Thoughts: I absolutely loved being back with these characters in Hurricane Heist🔍📚James Ponti has a real gift for writing smart, adventurous kids who feel both clever and real. The rich Florida history🌴woven into the plot made the mystery even more engaging. As someone who lives in the Pacific Northwest🌲I found myself wishing we had a series like this here! The mix of regional culture, danger, and clever problem solving always feels unique. Also…let’s talk about Grandpa👴💥He is hands-down one of the BEST parts of the book. Wise…hilarious…and full of heart.
This series just keeps getting better, and I can’t wait to see what mystery the Sherlock Society tackles next! 🧩🚨🌪️
My Question for James: If you could set a future Sherlock Society mystery in another U.S. region…like the Pacific Northwest 😉 …where would it be and why?
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
At First Glance: YAY Book 2 🙌🏻
The Gist: When a hurricane uncovers new information in a cold case, the Sherlock Society investigates a decades-old heist.
My Thoughts: I absolutely loved being back with these characters in Hurricane Heist🔍📚James Ponti has a real gift for writing smart, adventurous kids who feel both clever and real. The rich Florida history🌴woven into the plot made the mystery even more engaging. As someone who lives in the Pacific Northwest🌲I found myself wishing we had a series like this here! The mix of regional culture, danger, and clever problem solving always feels unique. Also…let’s talk about Grandpa👴💥He is hands-down one of the BEST parts of the book. Wise…hilarious…and full of heart.
This series just keeps getting better, and I can’t wait to see what mystery the Sherlock Society tackles next! 🧩🚨🌪️
My Question for James: If you could set a future Sherlock Society mystery in another U.S. region…like the Pacific Northwest 😉 …where would it be and why?
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
September 28, 2025
The Sherlock Society is back again with a new mystery. School is starting and a hurricane hits Miami. Its damage uncovers a dead body at an old hotel, and just happens to be the body of someone that Grandpa Pete knew when he was a kid. This discovery opens up a prior case, and soon the Sherlock Society is researching old hurricanes, old heists, and old Hollywood. Lots of action, but tamer than other detective series like Spy School or Charlie Thorne. There is a dead body in this one.
October 1, 2025
Another fun and rambunctious escapade for the detective quintet. Grandpa is back with a cold case that has ties to his own childhood. Along the way they enlist the help of a retirement home full of former FBI agents.
November 18, 2025
A cute little mystery.
November 24, 2025
I think this one was better than the first one. the mystery was so fascinating.
December 20, 2025
I just didn't connect to this one as much as some of his other books. Plus, some of the loose threads bugged me.
August 26, 2025
The Sherlock Society is back at it, and I'm here for it!
My students love mysteries and this series is perfect to hand to them.
My students love mysteries and this series is perfect to hand to them.
December 16, 2025
Listened with Hunter
September 2, 2025
This was a really fun sequel!
This one follows the Sherlock Society as they try to solve a 60 year old heist at a hotel. Alex's grandpa was questioned in this heist as him and his dad had been at this hotel the night of the heist. The case was closed, the police thought the suspect (Ignatio Gonzalez) had fled the scene and disappeared - his car was seen leaving the country. But when Ignatio's body shows up 60 years later and it's confirmed he died the night of the heist, Alex's grandpa knew he was right. He never thought Ignatio was guilty. Now the Sherlock Society needs to put the pieces together and find who really committed the theft.
I really like Alex's grandpa and I'm glad he got a lot of page time in this one. He was really supportive of the kids and happy to let them take the reins and figure the mystery out. The kids really worked well together as a team and all gave something different to the team dynamic.
The beginning of the book is told in 2 different timelines - the present with the Sherlock Society and the past when the crime was being committed. I don't think it's obvious at first that the past timeline is following Alex's grandpa so that was fun to figure out. It also gave us a more in depth look at that time rather than just recalling it during the present timeline.
The narrator was great. While he was an adult, he was able to give the impression of being younger and giving the book that middle grade feel.
I'm really enjoying this series and am excited to read the next one!
Thank you to Simon Audio for an advanced audio copy and Netgalley and Simon Children's/Aladdin for an advanced e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
This one follows the Sherlock Society as they try to solve a 60 year old heist at a hotel. Alex's grandpa was questioned in this heist as him and his dad had been at this hotel the night of the heist. The case was closed, the police thought the suspect (Ignatio Gonzalez) had fled the scene and disappeared - his car was seen leaving the country. But when Ignatio's body shows up 60 years later and it's confirmed he died the night of the heist, Alex's grandpa knew he was right. He never thought Ignatio was guilty. Now the Sherlock Society needs to put the pieces together and find who really committed the theft.
I really like Alex's grandpa and I'm glad he got a lot of page time in this one. He was really supportive of the kids and happy to let them take the reins and figure the mystery out. The kids really worked well together as a team and all gave something different to the team dynamic.
The beginning of the book is told in 2 different timelines - the present with the Sherlock Society and the past when the crime was being committed. I don't think it's obvious at first that the past timeline is following Alex's grandpa so that was fun to figure out. It also gave us a more in depth look at that time rather than just recalling it during the present timeline.
The narrator was great. While he was an adult, he was able to give the impression of being younger and giving the book that middle grade feel.
I'm really enjoying this series and am excited to read the next one!
Thank you to Simon Audio for an advanced audio copy and Netgalley and Simon Children's/Aladdin for an advanced e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
June 29, 2025
ARC review: Fun and fast-paced follow up to the first book that splits the narrative between present-day Miami and the 1960s. Looking forward to book 3!
June 26, 2025
I love a good mystery! The members of the Sherlock Society are gearing up to return to school, but things take a detour when Hurricane Clyde makes landfall and gives the kids a new case to solve. You don’t want to miss the next Sherlock Society! @JamesPonti @SimonKIDS #bookposse
June 2, 2025
I finished this in two days!
As with the first book, James Ponti takes middle grade readers on a wild ride with a mystery that reaches back into the childhood of Pete Lassiter, Alex & Zoey grandfather.
When Pete was a child, a beloved adult friend goes missing with everyone assuming they stole something from a hotel, tarnishing their name in the community forever. But Pete never believes the rumors.
Fast forward to current day, and the truth of his disappearance is revealed when a hurricane unearths the missing man's remains. But who killed him? And who really stole from the hotel?
I absolutely adore the dynamic between Grandpa Pete and the kids. He is patient and kind, allowing them to find the answers, while also learning from them about new technology. And each kid is able to lean into their strengths to solve the case.
I hope this is the start of a REALLY LONG new series from Ponti. I will be reading EVERY SINGLE ONE!
As with the first book, James Ponti takes middle grade readers on a wild ride with a mystery that reaches back into the childhood of Pete Lassiter, Alex & Zoey grandfather.
When Pete was a child, a beloved adult friend goes missing with everyone assuming they stole something from a hotel, tarnishing their name in the community forever. But Pete never believes the rumors.
Fast forward to current day, and the truth of his disappearance is revealed when a hurricane unearths the missing man's remains. But who killed him? And who really stole from the hotel?
I absolutely adore the dynamic between Grandpa Pete and the kids. He is patient and kind, allowing them to find the answers, while also learning from them about new technology. And each kid is able to lean into their strengths to solve the case.
I hope this is the start of a REALLY LONG new series from Ponti. I will be reading EVERY SINGLE ONE!
October 21, 2025
In James Ponti's second installment of the Sherlock Society series, we get an exquisitely written mystery and backstory about Alex and Zoe's grandfather. The book has a complex mystery connecting all the clues. The story isn't just a "Whodunit"; it also focuses on how the crime was accomplished.
The book has an intriguing structure of mixing in chapters from different time periods to give the reader a full understanding mystery. The book overall fully lives up to the original, and I think any fan of the first should definitely read this one.
The book, throughout, seems to be well pasted, except in the conclusion to the climax, especially in comparison to the original, which had, in my opinion, one of the best conclusions to any story. I also think the original's reveal of the crime they were investigating was more interesting.
The book has an intriguing structure of mixing in chapters from different time periods to give the reader a full understanding mystery. The book overall fully lives up to the original, and I think any fan of the first should definitely read this one.
The book, throughout, seems to be well pasted, except in the conclusion to the climax, especially in comparison to the original, which had, in my opinion, one of the best conclusions to any story. I also think the original's reveal of the crime they were investigating was more interesting.
April 25, 2025
I loved hanging out with The Sherlock Society again. I couldn’t wait to spend sometime in a mysterious adventure with this crew of old and young again. An art and jewelry heist on a map vie set and a hurricane start the book and a new hurricane brings the 60 year old crime back forward. Journalism and FBI. Who did it and who do you trust? Loved it! If your kids enjoyed the first one they will enjoy this one just as much.
September 29, 2025
A series I’m reading with my son. The characters aren’t my favorite
September 2, 2025
These covers always confuse me a little. I want to say The Sherlock Society: Hurricane Heist every time I see one -- and I get that this is the best way to market any series novel aimed specifically at children -- but the fact that the series name is so large in comparison with the actual title always throws me off. It even keeps me from fully appreciating how terrific the art is on the cover, which is a pity since Yaoyao Ma Van As captures the vibe of this Florida-set mystery perfectly.
And that's pretty much the only complaint I have about this entertaining book, the second in James Ponti's latest mystery-adventure series for children. Written as an homage to his Florida home, this latest installment follows Alex, Zoe, Yadi and Lina as they prepare for Hurricane Clyde... and work to solve a decades-old mystery uncovered in its aftermath.
Alex is feeling a little bummed that summer is coming to a close and his Sherlock Society has only solved one case, to little acclaim. But Al Capone's millions are still hidden somewhere in the state, and maybe he and the gang can find the money before Hurricane Clyde hits. Lina, having recently moved to Florida from Wisconsin, is especially nervous about the incoming storm, as everyone prepares to ride it out.
Fortunately, the Sherlock Society and their loved ones get through the bad weather relatively unscathed. The same can't be said for the glamorous Moroccan Hotel. Part of the pool construction crumbles, revealing a body that's been buried there for over sixty years, ever since the night Hurricane Cleo made landfall. Alex's grandpa Peter knows this because he was there that day, as an eleven year-old delivering last minute supplies with his dad, who owned a hardware store. He didn't see the murder or the body but he's pretty sure he knows who it is, as the case has been troubling him ever since he learned about it.
At the time of Peter's visit, the Moroccan had been hosting a film crew for a heist movie. With the hurricane incoming, the creative minds behind the film decided to incorporate the bad weather into the proceedings. What they hadn't accounted for, however, was someone using the storm as cover to steal the valuable artwork and jewels that the director had insisted on using for the sake of verisimilitude.
It seemed like an open-and-shut case, as hotel Bell Captain Ignacio "Doc" Gonzalez had disappeared at the same time the theft was discovered. Peter, however, had been certain that Doc would never have stolen the items, and certainly not fled the country as people claimed. The present-day discovery of Doc's body vindicates Peter's belief, as he and the rest of the Sherlock Society decide to take on the case to see who really stole the valuables and let poor Doc take the fall.
As this is a middle grade novel, everything stays age-appropriate/PG-rated without shying away from difficult subjects like segregation and how much to trust the feds. There are theories aplenty as the members of the Sherlock Society methodically examine all the clues and suspects, and come up with rational reasons for and against each theory. There's also a little personal drama, and tons of engrossing facts about heists and Southern Florida.
I've loved all the James Ponti books I've read so far, and would've absolutely devoured them even more enthusiastically as a kid than I do as an adult. They're smart and funny, with realistic characters engaged in the kind of adventures I've always wanted to go on myself. This is only the latest in a terrific oeuvre, and one I recommend whole-heartedly to any reader who loves a clever mystery with heart.
Hurricane Heist by James Ponti was published today September 2 2025 by Aladdin and is available from all good booksellers, including Bookshop!
This review originally appeared at TheFrumiousConsortium.net.
And that's pretty much the only complaint I have about this entertaining book, the second in James Ponti's latest mystery-adventure series for children. Written as an homage to his Florida home, this latest installment follows Alex, Zoe, Yadi and Lina as they prepare for Hurricane Clyde... and work to solve a decades-old mystery uncovered in its aftermath.
Alex is feeling a little bummed that summer is coming to a close and his Sherlock Society has only solved one case, to little acclaim. But Al Capone's millions are still hidden somewhere in the state, and maybe he and the gang can find the money before Hurricane Clyde hits. Lina, having recently moved to Florida from Wisconsin, is especially nervous about the incoming storm, as everyone prepares to ride it out.
Fortunately, the Sherlock Society and their loved ones get through the bad weather relatively unscathed. The same can't be said for the glamorous Moroccan Hotel. Part of the pool construction crumbles, revealing a body that's been buried there for over sixty years, ever since the night Hurricane Cleo made landfall. Alex's grandpa Peter knows this because he was there that day, as an eleven year-old delivering last minute supplies with his dad, who owned a hardware store. He didn't see the murder or the body but he's pretty sure he knows who it is, as the case has been troubling him ever since he learned about it.
At the time of Peter's visit, the Moroccan had been hosting a film crew for a heist movie. With the hurricane incoming, the creative minds behind the film decided to incorporate the bad weather into the proceedings. What they hadn't accounted for, however, was someone using the storm as cover to steal the valuable artwork and jewels that the director had insisted on using for the sake of verisimilitude.
It seemed like an open-and-shut case, as hotel Bell Captain Ignacio "Doc" Gonzalez had disappeared at the same time the theft was discovered. Peter, however, had been certain that Doc would never have stolen the items, and certainly not fled the country as people claimed. The present-day discovery of Doc's body vindicates Peter's belief, as he and the rest of the Sherlock Society decide to take on the case to see who really stole the valuables and let poor Doc take the fall.
As this is a middle grade novel, everything stays age-appropriate/PG-rated without shying away from difficult subjects like segregation and how much to trust the feds. There are theories aplenty as the members of the Sherlock Society methodically examine all the clues and suspects, and come up with rational reasons for and against each theory. There's also a little personal drama, and tons of engrossing facts about heists and Southern Florida.
I've loved all the James Ponti books I've read so far, and would've absolutely devoured them even more enthusiastically as a kid than I do as an adult. They're smart and funny, with realistic characters engaged in the kind of adventures I've always wanted to go on myself. This is only the latest in a terrific oeuvre, and one I recommend whole-heartedly to any reader who loves a clever mystery with heart.
Hurricane Heist by James Ponti was published today September 2 2025 by Aladdin and is available from all good booksellers, including Bookshop!
This review originally appeared at TheFrumiousConsortium.net.
May 1, 2025
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
After escaping an exploding yacht during their quest to find Al Capone's treasure in The Sherlock Society, siblings Alex and Zoe are back. This time, they are being chased by dogs and being threatened by a rhinoceros while trying to solve a 60 year old mystery. The aftermath of Hurricane Clyde has revealed a dead body at the Moroccan Hotel, and the group has a lot of motivation to solve the mystery. Their grandfather, Pete Lassiter, knew the victim and has been investigating his purported involvement in a jewel heist at the hotel on and off since 1964. Back then, young Pete was helping his father deliver supplies to fortify the hotel against another hurricane. Their friend Doc, whose real name was Ignacio, was a pediatrician who filed Cuba and could only get work as the Bell Captain at the fancy hotel. When a movie, The Cat Strikes at Midnight, was being filmed there, real jewelry and artwork was used. After the hurricane, it went missing, but so did Doc. He was presumed to be the thief, especially since his car was found far away at Dulles International Airport, and a ticket to Europe was bought in his name. The CIA decided he was guilty, even though young Pete tried to prove his innocence, even contacting Edna van Buren at the Miami Herald to help him. Even though he couldn't close the case, it inspired his career as an influential investigative journalist. Now 73 and retired, when Doc's body is found, he provides the Sherlock Society, which includes Yada and Lina, with his 60 year old notes. The group also manages to find some of the original investigators at an area senior facility, and get lots of information from them. Combined with visiting various Florida locations to follow up leads, they are able to figure out who really stole the art. Even after so many years, however, someone wants to stop the society from uncovering the truth.
Strengths: Ponti's work is upbeat and fun even when dealing with a murder! Alex and Zoe's parents (an environmental scientist and a lawyer) are around to support their children, and Grandpa Pete drives them all over the area to investigate crimes while teaching them investigative skills. He even outruns Alex and has mysterious date nights. What great representation of an older character. I absolutely adored getting to meet him as a 12 year old just embarking on his career. He also takes the kids for fried food and rents and furnishes a storage unit for their office. This was so much better than having the children solve a mystery while grieving the death of loved ones. There are lots of details about Hurricanes in Florida, fun connections to 1960s heist movies and fancy hotels, and plenty of clues to follow. Starting a book with a chase scene is always a good plan. Ponti definitely knows how to write an engaging and exiting mystery!
Weaknesses: I'm torn about the level of detail in some of the explanations. While I enjoyed hearing details about hurricanes from Alex's scientist dad, fun facts about the BeeGees' musical inspirations, and investigative journalism techniques from Grandpa Pete, young readers might think this information slows down the story. Also, now I have Stayin' Alive stuck in my head!
What I really think: Middle school readers have an insatiable desire for murder mysteries that publishers do NOT seem to understand. While the Sherlock Society books don't approach the CSI style of investigation that April Henry's books do, they definitely appeal to readers who want their murders to be softened by intervening years while the investigation has plenty of excitement. Hand to readers who can't get enough of this author's City Spies books, Stuart Gibbs' Spy School series, or books like Tubb's Fowl Play or Gerber's The Liar's Society. Definitely purchasing.
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
After escaping an exploding yacht during their quest to find Al Capone's treasure in The Sherlock Society, siblings Alex and Zoe are back. This time, they are being chased by dogs and being threatened by a rhinoceros while trying to solve a 60 year old mystery. The aftermath of Hurricane Clyde has revealed a dead body at the Moroccan Hotel, and the group has a lot of motivation to solve the mystery. Their grandfather, Pete Lassiter, knew the victim and has been investigating his purported involvement in a jewel heist at the hotel on and off since 1964. Back then, young Pete was helping his father deliver supplies to fortify the hotel against another hurricane. Their friend Doc, whose real name was Ignacio, was a pediatrician who filed Cuba and could only get work as the Bell Captain at the fancy hotel. When a movie, The Cat Strikes at Midnight, was being filmed there, real jewelry and artwork was used. After the hurricane, it went missing, but so did Doc. He was presumed to be the thief, especially since his car was found far away at Dulles International Airport, and a ticket to Europe was bought in his name. The CIA decided he was guilty, even though young Pete tried to prove his innocence, even contacting Edna van Buren at the Miami Herald to help him. Even though he couldn't close the case, it inspired his career as an influential investigative journalist. Now 73 and retired, when Doc's body is found, he provides the Sherlock Society, which includes Yada and Lina, with his 60 year old notes. The group also manages to find some of the original investigators at an area senior facility, and get lots of information from them. Combined with visiting various Florida locations to follow up leads, they are able to figure out who really stole the art. Even after so many years, however, someone wants to stop the society from uncovering the truth.
Strengths: Ponti's work is upbeat and fun even when dealing with a murder! Alex and Zoe's parents (an environmental scientist and a lawyer) are around to support their children, and Grandpa Pete drives them all over the area to investigate crimes while teaching them investigative skills. He even outruns Alex and has mysterious date nights. What great representation of an older character. I absolutely adored getting to meet him as a 12 year old just embarking on his career. He also takes the kids for fried food and rents and furnishes a storage unit for their office. This was so much better than having the children solve a mystery while grieving the death of loved ones. There are lots of details about Hurricanes in Florida, fun connections to 1960s heist movies and fancy hotels, and plenty of clues to follow. Starting a book with a chase scene is always a good plan. Ponti definitely knows how to write an engaging and exiting mystery!
Weaknesses: I'm torn about the level of detail in some of the explanations. While I enjoyed hearing details about hurricanes from Alex's scientist dad, fun facts about the BeeGees' musical inspirations, and investigative journalism techniques from Grandpa Pete, young readers might think this information slows down the story. Also, now I have Stayin' Alive stuck in my head!
What I really think: Middle school readers have an insatiable desire for murder mysteries that publishers do NOT seem to understand. While the Sherlock Society books don't approach the CSI style of investigation that April Henry's books do, they definitely appeal to readers who want their murders to be softened by intervening years while the investigation has plenty of excitement. Hand to readers who can't get enough of this author's City Spies books, Stuart Gibbs' Spy School series, or books like Tubb's Fowl Play or Gerber's The Liar's Society. Definitely purchasing.
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
December 4, 2025
As summer break comes to a close and the new school year starts, the Sherlock Society investigates a cold case. A body is uncovered behind the Moroccan hotel after a hurricane goes through. Alex, Zoe, Yadi, and Lina are recruited by Alex and Zoe’s Grandpa to investigate a cold case and clear an old friend. In 1964 Grandpa was a young man and delivered hardware supplies to the Moroccan hotel with his father just before a hurricane hit. After the hurricane, the FBI interviewed them regarding a jewel heist that happened at the ritzy hotel during the hurricane. The bell captain, who young Pete called Doc, disappeared during the hurricane and his car was found at the airport later. The safe wasn’t damaged during the heist, which pointed ot an inside job. The FBI pinned Doc with the crime, but Pete was sure - and is still sure - his friend would never have done such a thing. Now that the body has turned up at the Moroccan, Grandpa Pete wonders if the case can finally be put to rest and if Doc’s name can be cleared.
This was a very fun mystery with the Sherlock Society. I like how they connect with a bunch of retired FBI agents at a retirement community as they chase leads, and how these retired agents who are a bit bored get so on board with investigating this cold case with them. The flashbacks to a young Grandpa Pete help show how he became an investigative journalist and why the Sherlock Society is good for him. Doc was a Cuban immigrant who was a medical doctor in Cuba and working at the hotel while working to get certified to practice medicine in the US. I like how this exposes kids to the very real issue extremely well-trained professionals can face when they have to immigrate or become refugees. I also liked how the book showed people preparing for hurricanes both in the 60s and present. Lina is new to Florida so it is her first hurricane and she’s a bit worried about it. The twins do a good job of helping her get through the experience. The family also helps those hit hard by the hurricane. Lina and Zoe’s friendship goes through a rocky time as Lina turns down an invite from Zoe to hang out with her snobby other friends, and Zoe realizes some important truths through the experience. There was a movie shoot going on at the Moroccan during the 1960s which is why the jewels were on site. It makes for an exciting premise to the crime, and Yadi is super excited because he gets to use his movie/filming knowledge in the investigation. And speaking of the investigation, it was a very cleverly written mystery that went in some unexpected directions. Grandpa Pete is my favorite character in this book. He really steals the show with his antics. He doesn’t let old age slow him down at all, and I always love books showing positive intergenerational relationships. The young have so much to learn from the older generation.
Notes on content:
Language: None
Sexual content: None
Violence: There was a death in the past that was covered up. It isn’t graphically described or anything, happens completely off page.
Ethnic diversity: Some of the characters are Hispanic American and some are white American. They interview people from a host of ethnic backgrounds.
LGBTQ+ content: None specified.
Other: A false accusation is cleared up. A hurricane causes some damage. Grandpa Pete sometimes pushes boundaries a little, like crossing a downed fence into a no trespassing area.
This was a very fun mystery with the Sherlock Society. I like how they connect with a bunch of retired FBI agents at a retirement community as they chase leads, and how these retired agents who are a bit bored get so on board with investigating this cold case with them. The flashbacks to a young Grandpa Pete help show how he became an investigative journalist and why the Sherlock Society is good for him. Doc was a Cuban immigrant who was a medical doctor in Cuba and working at the hotel while working to get certified to practice medicine in the US. I like how this exposes kids to the very real issue extremely well-trained professionals can face when they have to immigrate or become refugees. I also liked how the book showed people preparing for hurricanes both in the 60s and present. Lina is new to Florida so it is her first hurricane and she’s a bit worried about it. The twins do a good job of helping her get through the experience. The family also helps those hit hard by the hurricane. Lina and Zoe’s friendship goes through a rocky time as Lina turns down an invite from Zoe to hang out with her snobby other friends, and Zoe realizes some important truths through the experience. There was a movie shoot going on at the Moroccan during the 1960s which is why the jewels were on site. It makes for an exciting premise to the crime, and Yadi is super excited because he gets to use his movie/filming knowledge in the investigation. And speaking of the investigation, it was a very cleverly written mystery that went in some unexpected directions. Grandpa Pete is my favorite character in this book. He really steals the show with his antics. He doesn’t let old age slow him down at all, and I always love books showing positive intergenerational relationships. The young have so much to learn from the older generation.
Notes on content:
Language: None
Sexual content: None
Violence: There was a death in the past that was covered up. It isn’t graphically described or anything, happens completely off page.
Ethnic diversity: Some of the characters are Hispanic American and some are white American. They interview people from a host of ethnic backgrounds.
LGBTQ+ content: None specified.
Other: A false accusation is cleared up. A hurricane causes some damage. Grandpa Pete sometimes pushes boundaries a little, like crossing a downed fence into a no trespassing area.
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