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Supernatural Investigations #4
Amari and the Metalwork Menace
The gripping fourth book in the #1 New York Times bestselling Supernatural Investigations series that began with Amari and the Night Brothers!
Perfect for fans of Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky, Percy Jackson and the Olympians, and Nevermoor.
In the wake of the extreme losses to the Bureau during the war with Dylan Van Helsing and the magicians, Amari has stepped back from being a Junior Agent to spend the school year as a normal kid. But as she prepares to graduate eighth grade, she's faced with a Return to the Bureau and join the elite new Junior Special Agent Program, or retire for good—which would mean safety, but also losing her memories of the supernatural world.
But soon she finds that she may not have a choice. A deadly new curse is threatening both the supernatural and mortal worlds as, beneath their skin, people are slowly becoming machines—and losing their very humanity. And it's somehow related to the First Magician.
Hundreds of cases have been cropping up, with no cure in sight. And when the curse hits someone close to Amari, it's up to her to get to the bottom of this deadly mystery—even if it means trusting an old enemy.
Perfect for fans of Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky, Percy Jackson and the Olympians, and Nevermoor.
In the wake of the extreme losses to the Bureau during the war with Dylan Van Helsing and the magicians, Amari has stepped back from being a Junior Agent to spend the school year as a normal kid. But as she prepares to graduate eighth grade, she's faced with a Return to the Bureau and join the elite new Junior Special Agent Program, or retire for good—which would mean safety, but also losing her memories of the supernatural world.
But soon she finds that she may not have a choice. A deadly new curse is threatening both the supernatural and mortal worlds as, beneath their skin, people are slowly becoming machines—and losing their very humanity. And it's somehow related to the First Magician.
Hundreds of cases have been cropping up, with no cure in sight. And when the curse hits someone close to Amari, it's up to her to get to the bottom of this deadly mystery—even if it means trusting an old enemy.
384 pages, Hardcover
First published February 24, 2026
48 people are currently reading
4222 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another 5 star in the books! Honestly this series keeps getting better and better.
In this installment we have Amari considering retirement from the Bureau, as she's still traumatized from the events of the previous book.
However, once a close friend of her starts turning to metal, Amari is quick to jump into action to save the day.
In this book we see a lot of growth and transformation in Amari's friendships. They learn more about each other and learn to set aside differences for the bigger picture. We even see Dylan struggling with some things he did in the past.
The Metalworks Menace might be my favorite villain in the series so far. He was nefarious and truly evil. I really enjoyed his concept of tuning people into metal.
The cliffhanger had me throwing my headphones across the room. WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO UNTIL THE NEXT BOOK RELEASES???
Overall, this book was so good, but are we really surprised? It's Amari after all.
[Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for sending me an ALC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.]
In this installment we have Amari considering retirement from the Bureau, as she's still traumatized from the events of the previous book.
However, once a close friend of her starts turning to metal, Amari is quick to jump into action to save the day.
In this book we see a lot of growth and transformation in Amari's friendships. They learn more about each other and learn to set aside differences for the bigger picture. We even see Dylan struggling with some things he did in the past.
The Metalworks Menace might be my favorite villain in the series so far. He was nefarious and truly evil. I really enjoyed his concept of tuning people into metal.
The cliffhanger had me throwing my headphones across the room. WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO UNTIL THE NEXT BOOK RELEASES???
Overall, this book was so good, but are we really surprised? It's Amari after all.
[Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for sending me an ALC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.]
July 30, 2025
I CAN'T WAIT . I really want to see Dylan and Amari again.
December 3, 2025
Release date So Close yet so far... Though if i'm being honest... Am I the only one who thinks Amari's (After this series is over) should take a break (in general) Now about the "sorta" love triangle the fandom made Jaydens Amazing. And Dylamari is like the forbidden fruit to me. But I'll always be happy with her decision IG
July 30, 2025
Haven’t even read the book yet and I’m already dying. I’m ngl, I hate Dylan and I’m so upset because based on the description., he’s probably gonna make up with Amari in this book 😔. Most likely, we are NOT getting JayMari 💔
December 12, 2025
4.5
I was lucky enough to get an advanced audio copy of this book, and I think it may be my favorite installment since book 1, which says a lot because I love this series. The adventure aspects had me on the edge of my seat for the entirety of the book, but there were some beautiful, quieter moments as well. We have characters dealing with grief in a variety of ways, opportunities for second chances, internal and external struggles being dealt with, and ideas about the impact of memories on a person's character.
There were a few different scenes that had me feeling all of the feels, and I cried at least once. The character depth and growth in this series continue to amaze me, and anyone saying that middle grade literature lacks the depth of adult fiction seriously needs to read this series. As always, now it’s just a matter of waiting an eternity (or maybe just until next year) for the next installment, and that ending made me want it immediately!
Additionally, the audiobook narration from Imani Parks was fabulous - she does a perfect job of encapsulating Amari.
Thank you SO much to Netgalley and HarperAudio Children’s for this advanced audiobook copy! I'm preordering physical copies for my home and my classroom today!
I was lucky enough to get an advanced audio copy of this book, and I think it may be my favorite installment since book 1, which says a lot because I love this series. The adventure aspects had me on the edge of my seat for the entirety of the book, but there were some beautiful, quieter moments as well. We have characters dealing with grief in a variety of ways, opportunities for second chances, internal and external struggles being dealt with, and ideas about the impact of memories on a person's character.
There were a few different scenes that had me feeling all of the feels, and I cried at least once. The character depth and growth in this series continue to amaze me, and anyone saying that middle grade literature lacks the depth of adult fiction seriously needs to read this series. As always, now it’s just a matter of waiting an eternity (or maybe just until next year) for the next installment, and that ending made me want it immediately!
Additionally, the audiobook narration from Imani Parks was fabulous - she does a perfect job of encapsulating Amari.
Thank you SO much to Netgalley and HarperAudio Children’s for this advanced audiobook copy! I'm preordering physical copies for my home and my classroom today!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Amari and the Metalwork Menace by B. B. Alston (2026) [reading in Jan]
Supernatural Investigations #4
10h 41m narrated by Imani Parks, 400 pages
Genre: Children > Middle Grade; Fantasy > Magic, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy; Young Adult, Fiction, Adventure, Mystery
Rating as a movie: PG for violence and peril
Featuring: Atlanta, Georgia; Magic, Agents, Mystical Creatures, Peril, Anansi, Magicians, Prejudices, 8th Grade, Friendships, Bootcamp, Pandemic, Secret Service Agency
Songs for the soundtrack: "Symphony No. 9
Choral (Ode To Joy)" by Ludwig van Beethoven
My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🪄🔮🏊🏾♀️👩🏾🎓👨🏼⚕️🤖
My thoughts: ⏯️ - I know I said it would be my son pushing for us to read the next book but it actually was me because I saw it on NetGalley.
📱3% 10h 21m left [Chapter] 2 - My son was Excited to start the story but cautious about how I got a hold of it early. He is already hooked, the opening wasn't bad.
📱7% 9h 56m left 0:6:45 ⬅️ [Chapter] 3 ➡️ 0:6:01 - My son has been saying the entire time he knows what she was going to do and we're about to find out. We're probably gonna have enough time to listen to a chapter a day until we get to the weekend unless we go somewhere because this is our car book.
📱11% 9h 32m left [Chapter] 5 - My son had me drive around the block so he could finish an additional chapter, and then he cut it off immediately. I think this weekend might be when we finish he's already very into this.
📱18% 8h 47m left 0:10:50 ⬅️ [Chapter] 7 ➡️ 0:5:49 - My son tried to leave home an hour early just to listen to this book, unfortunately I was only able to make it out the door 10 minutes early.
📱22% 8h 22m left [Chapter] 9- He is hooked!
📱51% 5h 15m left [Chapter] 17 - I'm getting really tired of these climax cliffhangers. I was hoping to finish this book today but we ran out of places to travel to. I might be able to listen to it in the house this evening but my son has instructed me that I am not allowed to read this book without him. I will say it is better than the last book.
📱55% 4h 48m left [Chapter] 18 - This is really good. My son wants to finish without me because listening together outside of the car isn't comfortable [just sitting in an open space] so we'll see if that helps him finish.
⏯️ My son, 17, finished without me. He said he really enjoyed it. He suspected some of what happened and is looking forward to the next book.
I enjoyed this story a lot. In fact, this is the best Amari book I've read so far. I'm not going to compare tropes and themes to Harry Potter, this story definitely stands on its own. I'm also excited to see what happens next and I think I'm finally all in on this series. It just went from good to brilliant. Thank you to NetGalley for this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Recommend to others?: Yes. This is a series that everyone can enjoy from kindergartens to grandmothers.
Supernatural Investigations
1. Amari and the Night Brothers (2021)
2. Amari and the Great Game (2022)
3. Amari and the Despicable Wonders (2024)
4. Amari and the Metalwork Menace (2026)
Supernatural Investigations #4
10h 41m narrated by Imani Parks, 400 pages
Genre: Children > Middle Grade; Fantasy > Magic, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy; Young Adult, Fiction, Adventure, Mystery
Rating as a movie: PG for violence and peril
Featuring: Atlanta, Georgia; Magic, Agents, Mystical Creatures, Peril, Anansi, Magicians, Prejudices, 8th Grade, Friendships, Bootcamp, Pandemic, Secret Service Agency
Songs for the soundtrack: "Symphony No. 9
Choral (Ode To Joy)" by Ludwig van Beethoven
My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🪄🔮🏊🏾♀️👩🏾🎓👨🏼⚕️🤖
My thoughts: ⏯️ - I know I said it would be my son pushing for us to read the next book but it actually was me because I saw it on NetGalley.
📱3% 10h 21m left [Chapter] 2 - My son was Excited to start the story but cautious about how I got a hold of it early. He is already hooked, the opening wasn't bad.
📱7% 9h 56m left 0:6:45 ⬅️ [Chapter] 3 ➡️ 0:6:01 - My son has been saying the entire time he knows what she was going to do and we're about to find out. We're probably gonna have enough time to listen to a chapter a day until we get to the weekend unless we go somewhere because this is our car book.
📱11% 9h 32m left [Chapter] 5 - My son had me drive around the block so he could finish an additional chapter, and then he cut it off immediately. I think this weekend might be when we finish he's already very into this.
📱18% 8h 47m left 0:10:50 ⬅️ [Chapter] 7 ➡️ 0:5:49 - My son tried to leave home an hour early just to listen to this book, unfortunately I was only able to make it out the door 10 minutes early.
📱22% 8h 22m left [Chapter] 9- He is hooked!
📱51% 5h 15m left [Chapter] 17 - I'm getting really tired of these climax cliffhangers. I was hoping to finish this book today but we ran out of places to travel to. I might be able to listen to it in the house this evening but my son has instructed me that I am not allowed to read this book without him. I will say it is better than the last book.
📱55% 4h 48m left [Chapter] 18 - This is really good. My son wants to finish without me because listening together outside of the car isn't comfortable [just sitting in an open space] so we'll see if that helps him finish.
⏯️ My son, 17, finished without me. He said he really enjoyed it. He suspected some of what happened and is looking forward to the next book.
I enjoyed this story a lot. In fact, this is the best Amari book I've read so far. I'm not going to compare tropes and themes to Harry Potter, this story definitely stands on its own. I'm also excited to see what happens next and I think I'm finally all in on this series. It just went from good to brilliant. Thank you to NetGalley for this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Recommend to others?: Yes. This is a series that everyone can enjoy from kindergartens to grandmothers.
Supernatural Investigations
1. Amari and the Night Brothers (2021)
2. Amari and the Great Game (2022)
3. Amari and the Despicable Wonders (2024)
4. Amari and the Metalwork Menace (2026)
Want to read
February 16, 2026"even if it means trusting an old enemy" DYLAN???????????!
I AM SO HYPED FOR THIS BRO
I AM SO HYPED FOR THIS BRO
December 16, 2025
Thank you to @harperaudio Children’s and @netgalley for the ALC of Amari and the Metalwork Menace by B. B. Alston.
🎙️ Narrated by Imani Parks
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
🎧 Audio: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Amari and The Metalwork Menace is everything I’ve come to expect from this phenomenal Middle Grade series—high-stakes adventure, clever twists, emotional depth, and Amari’s signature bravery and heart. B. B. Alston continues to raise the bar, trusting readers with complex themes while keeping the story fast-paced and wildly engaging.
🎙️ Imani Parks is phenomenal, and this performance only cements her as one of my all-time favorite narrators. Her voice work brings such nuance, warmth, and intensity to every scene, making the magic feel real and the emotions hit even harder. Each character feels distinct and alive, and her delivery elevates the story in a way that makes the audiobook an absolute must.
This series continues to be a standout in middle grade fantasy, and Amari and the Metalwork Menace is another confident, thrilling entry that proves why these books are so beloved. If you haven’t started Amari yet, do yourself a favor and begin at book one because this is a journey worth taking. ✨📚
🎙️ Narrated by Imani Parks
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
🎧 Audio: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Amari and The Metalwork Menace is everything I’ve come to expect from this phenomenal Middle Grade series—high-stakes adventure, clever twists, emotional depth, and Amari’s signature bravery and heart. B. B. Alston continues to raise the bar, trusting readers with complex themes while keeping the story fast-paced and wildly engaging.
🎙️ Imani Parks is phenomenal, and this performance only cements her as one of my all-time favorite narrators. Her voice work brings such nuance, warmth, and intensity to every scene, making the magic feel real and the emotions hit even harder. Each character feels distinct and alive, and her delivery elevates the story in a way that makes the audiobook an absolute must.
This series continues to be a standout in middle grade fantasy, and Amari and the Metalwork Menace is another confident, thrilling entry that proves why these books are so beloved. If you haven’t started Amari yet, do yourself a favor and begin at book one because this is a journey worth taking. ✨📚
December 6, 2025
Quick Summary: An unpredictable thrill ride of excellence...down to the last minute
My Review: Amari and the Metalwork Menace by B. B. Alston is book #4 in the Supernatural Investigations series. It is scheduled for release on 2/24/26.
About the Book: "A deadly new curse is threatening both the supernatural and mortal worlds...
...it's somehow related to the First Magician.
...when the curse hits someone close to Amari, it's up to her to get to the bottom of this deadly mystery—even if it means trusting an old enemy."
In My Own Words: Junior Agent Amari Peters faces friends, foes and a new threat unlike anything that's ever been seen before.
About the Characters: Amari and the supporting cast of characters were sensational in this installment. They were diverse, supernaturally gifted, and hungry for the fight they faced. I loved being able to learn more about their backgrounds. To see what drove them and/or motivated them this time around revealed so much. Additionally, the antagonists showed out in book 4. This included the primary villain, but it also included family members and Bureau members.
About the Conflict: The conflict in this book was everywhere. Internal and external struggles affected every relationship and situation. The biggest conflict point existed among the three magicians. It was really incredible to see how the author presented the confrontations.
About the Action: Where do I even start?! The action was spectacular. It was non stop. I felt like I was on the best rollercoaster in the world. Being able to watch how Amari and her team stepped up when faced with challenges (yet again) blew me away. Every single time, they rose to the occasion. Boom!
About the Emotional Arc: There were some powerful emotional scenes in this one. Although I won't go into detail, I confess that I got choked up a couple of times. The author laid down some nice threads. I cannot wait to see what happens when we (the readers) get to pull on some specific strings.
My Favorite Scenes (coded, so as to avoid spoilers):
✨ Tied for First (I loved that Amari got to have something of her own. That she had her own moment to shine for herself was special.)
✨ The Not So Bad Bad Guy (What her mom did for her spoke volumes.)
✨ The Other Girl (The relationship that Amari had with the friend she was trying to save was giving off some hmm energy. As they continue to mature, that might be something to see. I want to know; please and thank you.)
✨ The Triangle (The author got me good with this particular angle. I cannot see and yet I want to. The whole blue-eyed versus the red-eyed versus the other, in relation to Amari and her bestie...yea. What in the heck is up?!?!)
✨ The Storm (I loved the power that Amari displayed. I anticipate that there is more to come. Let's go!)
✨Joined & Connected (The Amari/Dylan connection keeps giving in a HUGE way.)
✨ Final Moments (Umm....yass! That is how you end with a cliffhanger. It was...woo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)
About the Audiobook: This novel was narrated by Imani Parks. All I have to say is brava. She did the thing, brilliantly so, as always, with boss energy. Period. The end.
My Final Say: Amari and the Metalwork Menace gets 10,000 golden stars. It is one of the best middle grade/YA reads that I have read. This one might be my favorite. Who am I kidding? I love them all. Every book gets better and better. This particular novel was like Amari mashed up with The Matrix and Age of Ultron. Dude! All I know is that I will never stop cheering for this character, for the Supernatural Investigations series, or for the author.
This should already be a movie, television series, or something. Come on!
(#fangirling is real)
Other: Readers, just get into it. You will not regret it. It's magic, power, madness, and mayhem. It's friends and enemies. It's light and dark. It's love and sacrifice. It's sensational!
Fans of Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Keeper of the Lost Cities and the Vega Jane novels will LOVE this, in my opinion.
Rating: 5/5 (It deserves more than that. Trust.)
Recommend: Yes
Audience: YA and up
Re-read: Yes
Keeper: Yes
Favorites Shelf: Yes
Besties Shelf: Yes
Status: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Level: 💎
Action: 💥
Tension/Angst: ⚡
Cliffhanger: Yes (OMG!!!)
Audiobook: Yes
Narration: +
Series: Yes
Cover: +
Heartfelt appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (HarperAudio Children’s | Storytide) and to NetGalley. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for granting access to an ALC of this title in exchange for an honest critique. It was a supreme pleasure to review. I cannot wait to see what's to come. B.B. Alston rocks! Let's keep these books coming.
My Review: Amari and the Metalwork Menace by B. B. Alston is book #4 in the Supernatural Investigations series. It is scheduled for release on 2/24/26.
About the Book: "A deadly new curse is threatening both the supernatural and mortal worlds...
...it's somehow related to the First Magician.
...when the curse hits someone close to Amari, it's up to her to get to the bottom of this deadly mystery—even if it means trusting an old enemy."
In My Own Words: Junior Agent Amari Peters faces friends, foes and a new threat unlike anything that's ever been seen before.
About the Characters: Amari and the supporting cast of characters were sensational in this installment. They were diverse, supernaturally gifted, and hungry for the fight they faced. I loved being able to learn more about their backgrounds. To see what drove them and/or motivated them this time around revealed so much. Additionally, the antagonists showed out in book 4. This included the primary villain, but it also included family members and Bureau members.
About the Conflict: The conflict in this book was everywhere. Internal and external struggles affected every relationship and situation. The biggest conflict point existed among the three magicians. It was really incredible to see how the author presented the confrontations.
About the Action: Where do I even start?! The action was spectacular. It was non stop. I felt like I was on the best rollercoaster in the world. Being able to watch how Amari and her team stepped up when faced with challenges (yet again) blew me away. Every single time, they rose to the occasion. Boom!
About the Emotional Arc: There were some powerful emotional scenes in this one. Although I won't go into detail, I confess that I got choked up a couple of times. The author laid down some nice threads. I cannot wait to see what happens when we (the readers) get to pull on some specific strings.
My Favorite Scenes (coded, so as to avoid spoilers):
✨ Tied for First (I loved that Amari got to have something of her own. That she had her own moment to shine for herself was special.)
✨ The Not So Bad Bad Guy (What her mom did for her spoke volumes.)
✨ The Other Girl (The relationship that Amari had with the friend she was trying to save was giving off some hmm energy. As they continue to mature, that might be something to see. I want to know; please and thank you.)
✨ The Triangle (The author got me good with this particular angle. I cannot see and yet I want to. The whole blue-eyed versus the red-eyed versus the other, in relation to Amari and her bestie...yea. What in the heck is up?!?!)
✨ The Storm (I loved the power that Amari displayed. I anticipate that there is more to come. Let's go!)
✨Joined & Connected (The Amari/Dylan connection keeps giving in a HUGE way.)
✨ Final Moments (Umm....yass! That is how you end with a cliffhanger. It was...woo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)
About the Audiobook: This novel was narrated by Imani Parks. All I have to say is brava. She did the thing, brilliantly so, as always, with boss energy. Period. The end.
My Final Say: Amari and the Metalwork Menace gets 10,000 golden stars. It is one of the best middle grade/YA reads that I have read. This one might be my favorite. Who am I kidding? I love them all. Every book gets better and better. This particular novel was like Amari mashed up with The Matrix and Age of Ultron. Dude! All I know is that I will never stop cheering for this character, for the Supernatural Investigations series, or for the author.
This should already be a movie, television series, or something. Come on!
(#fangirling is real)
Other: Readers, just get into it. You will not regret it. It's magic, power, madness, and mayhem. It's friends and enemies. It's light and dark. It's love and sacrifice. It's sensational!
Fans of Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Keeper of the Lost Cities and the Vega Jane novels will LOVE this, in my opinion.
Rating: 5/5 (It deserves more than that. Trust.)
Recommend: Yes
Audience: YA and up
Re-read: Yes
Keeper: Yes
Favorites Shelf: Yes
Besties Shelf: Yes
Status: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Level: 💎
Action: 💥
Tension/Angst: ⚡
Cliffhanger: Yes (OMG!!!)
Audiobook: Yes
Narration: +
Series: Yes
Cover: +
Heartfelt appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (HarperAudio Children’s | Storytide) and to NetGalley. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for granting access to an ALC of this title in exchange for an honest critique. It was a supreme pleasure to review. I cannot wait to see what's to come. B.B. Alston rocks! Let's keep these books coming.
December 8, 2025
I'll be honest, I did not read this book. Rather my 10 year old did. I can let you know when she heard I was granted the ARC she jumped up and down in excitement. Then she proceeded to devour this book. I mean I had to convince her to do anything else because she was that into it. So I must say this series is highly recommended from her and myself. The following is her review of this fourth installment of Amari (with some help from me).
This is a 4.5 star rounded up to five stars. The adventure was very exciting. It can be emotional at times. I could almost feel all the emotions because of all the details. It was almost like I was right there with Amari, hearing the story from her. It is about best friends who never give up on each other. In this book there is a disease called the metal working menace and she is sent on a mission to find a cure for the menace. If she doesn't succeed someone she loves might die. But on the way to finding the cure she must partner with someone who hates her and battle against the odds. Will they succeed? We recommend you pick up the book to find out. Thank you to HarperAudio Children's, Storytide, and Netgalley for the advanced copy of the audiobook.
This is a 4.5 star rounded up to five stars. The adventure was very exciting. It can be emotional at times. I could almost feel all the emotions because of all the details. It was almost like I was right there with Amari, hearing the story from her. It is about best friends who never give up on each other. In this book there is a disease called the metal working menace and she is sent on a mission to find a cure for the menace. If she doesn't succeed someone she loves might die. But on the way to finding the cure she must partner with someone who hates her and battle against the odds. Will they succeed? We recommend you pick up the book to find out. Thank you to HarperAudio Children's, Storytide, and Netgalley for the advanced copy of the audiobook.
January 2, 2026
Another great entry in the Amari Peters series! My 12 year old and I both enjoyed it. After the tragedy of the last book, Amari took a year off the Bureau of the Supernatural. Now they’re insisting she return or retire permanently, and while she wants to leave it all behind, a new problem in the supernatural world has her pulled back in.
You definitely want to read the first 3 before this, there’s lots of character development. I felt it had a slow start before the plot really got going, but once it did it took off. I listened, and overall really appreciated the narration, but there are characters with accents who speak with Irish phrasing and she read them American.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.
You definitely want to read the first 3 before this, there’s lots of character development. I felt it had a slow start before the plot really got going, but once it did it took off. I listened, and overall really appreciated the narration, but there are characters with accents who speak with Irish phrasing and she read them American.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.
Want to read
November 11, 2025I AM READY.
February 26, 2026
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. . ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. . ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
Man, where do I even start? (Just a little warning, there’s a lot of yapping in this review)
I LOVE this series so much and stared reading this book at 9 AM and finished at 12 AM (worth it 😌)
When I first started reading this book, it literally felt like a fever dream, and I mean that in a good way and a bad way.
For the first half of the book, I was honestly a little bored. I had such weird feelings while reading it, like I was eager to know what was gonna happen next but was also bored.
It really started to get interesting after the Menace was introduced. He reminded me a lot of Viktor from Arcane (whenever Amari describes the exterior of his works, I always imagine the little robot things he created in Season 2) and Vecna from Stranger Things.
I predicted that Jayden was gonna be the person to catch the menace, so I really wasn’t surprised when he did. In fact, a lot of stuff I predicted became true in this book.
Make that almost all of them.
Now, anyone who knows me personally already knows how I feel about DylMari. I used to HATE Dylan (at least the evil version) but in this book, he grew on me (for at least a little while). He pissed me off as soon as he started bad mouthing the GOAT Agent Magnus. I literally stood up and clapped when Charlotte slapped him.
As much as (the good) Dylan grew on me, I’ll forever be rooting for JayMari (which, honestly, isn’t looking too bright 😞. I’ll be grieving this relationship like it was my own.)
I’m gonna be 100% honest, I thought Jayden was toast as soon as peek-a-boo said he didn’t feel good, I already started grieving.
When Amari said she was going back to Bureau to save him, I literally said “Girl, don’t even waste your time.”
(Even worse, when I started thinking about them, Too Little, Too late by Laufey started playing in my headphones and I started BAWLING—and I’m not even joking. That timing was CRAZY).
Enough of Jayden, LETS TALK ABOUT MAGNUS!!!!!
Even though Amari will literally be 21 when he comes back, IM SO EXCITEDDDDDDDD!! I was literally bawling my eyes out because of what happened during the end of Book 3. He was literally one of my favorite agents, AND HE WAS ABOUT TO GET MARRIED!!
Which is exactly why I couldn’t even hate Charlotte at the beginning of the book (doesn’t mean I support her actions though, that was absolutely crazy).
Seeing Agent Fiona in mom-mode in the chapter after that was so awkward and hilarious at the same time. I’m glad she solved both Charlotte and Amaris problems a few chapters later was good though, and Amaris, “I hope I’m making you proud,” after she saw the video of Agent Magnus made me SOB.
The love-triangle between Amari, Elsie, and Dylan is so crazy to me.
Elsie likes the new Dylan, and Amari likes the new Dylan, but (old) Dylan likes Amari. I know the chances are slim, I hope Elsie and Dylan get together. Elsie’s pecks on his cheeks and lips were so cute and they really do seem to love each other.
As much as I love JayMari, I honestly believe Amari shouldn’t worry about boys right now and should just focus on herself. My girl has been STRESSING lately.
I also kinda have mixed feelings for Dylan. Just because I hate his character doesn’t mean I don’t understand it. I do hope he gets his happy ending, just not with Amari.
And last but not least, THAT CLIFFHANGER????? I WENT TO BED SHAKINGGGGGG. I feel like that one squid game meme where it says, “I’m so fucking scared” 😭
Anyway, thank you for reading my review (and my yapping, lol)!! This series will always have a special place in my heart 🫶🏽 (as they say in Wicked, “like a handprint on my heart).
Will 100% be reading the next book.
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. . ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. . ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
Man, where do I even start? (Just a little warning, there’s a lot of yapping in this review)
I LOVE this series so much and stared reading this book at 9 AM and finished at 12 AM (worth it 😌)
When I first started reading this book, it literally felt like a fever dream, and I mean that in a good way and a bad way.
For the first half of the book, I was honestly a little bored. I had such weird feelings while reading it, like I was eager to know what was gonna happen next but was also bored.
It really started to get interesting after the Menace was introduced. He reminded me a lot of Viktor from Arcane (whenever Amari describes the exterior of his works, I always imagine the little robot things he created in Season 2) and Vecna from Stranger Things.
I predicted that Jayden was gonna be the person to catch the menace, so I really wasn’t surprised when he did. In fact, a lot of stuff I predicted became true in this book.
Make that almost all of them.
Now, anyone who knows me personally already knows how I feel about DylMari. I used to HATE Dylan (at least the evil version) but in this book, he grew on me (for at least a little while). He pissed me off as soon as he started bad mouthing the GOAT Agent Magnus. I literally stood up and clapped when Charlotte slapped him.
As much as (the good) Dylan grew on me, I’ll forever be rooting for JayMari (which, honestly, isn’t looking too bright 😞. I’ll be grieving this relationship like it was my own.)
I’m gonna be 100% honest, I thought Jayden was toast as soon as peek-a-boo said he didn’t feel good, I already started grieving.
When Amari said she was going back to Bureau to save him, I literally said “Girl, don’t even waste your time.”
(Even worse, when I started thinking about them, Too Little, Too late by Laufey started playing in my headphones and I started BAWLING—and I’m not even joking. That timing was CRAZY).
Enough of Jayden, LETS TALK ABOUT MAGNUS!!!!!
Even though Amari will literally be 21 when he comes back, IM SO EXCITEDDDDDDDD!! I was literally bawling my eyes out because of what happened during the end of Book 3. He was literally one of my favorite agents, AND HE WAS ABOUT TO GET MARRIED!!
Which is exactly why I couldn’t even hate Charlotte at the beginning of the book (doesn’t mean I support her actions though, that was absolutely crazy).
Seeing Agent Fiona in mom-mode in the chapter after that was so awkward and hilarious at the same time. I’m glad she solved both Charlotte and Amaris problems a few chapters later was good though, and Amaris, “I hope I’m making you proud,” after she saw the video of Agent Magnus made me SOB.
The love-triangle between Amari, Elsie, and Dylan is so crazy to me.
Elsie likes the new Dylan, and Amari likes the new Dylan, but (old) Dylan likes Amari. I know the chances are slim, I hope Elsie and Dylan get together. Elsie’s pecks on his cheeks and lips were so cute and they really do seem to love each other.
As much as I love JayMari, I honestly believe Amari shouldn’t worry about boys right now and should just focus on herself. My girl has been STRESSING lately.
I also kinda have mixed feelings for Dylan. Just because I hate his character doesn’t mean I don’t understand it. I do hope he gets his happy ending, just not with Amari.
And last but not least, THAT CLIFFHANGER????? I WENT TO BED SHAKINGGGGGG. I feel like that one squid game meme where it says, “I’m so fucking scared” 😭
Anyway, thank you for reading my review (and my yapping, lol)!! This series will always have a special place in my heart 🫶🏽 (as they say in Wicked, “like a handprint on my heart).
Will 100% be reading the next book.
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. . ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. . ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 9, 2025
Book#4 – Amari is trying to get over the devastating war with the magicians. She decides to take a step back and lead a normal middle school life. As graduation approaches, she is faced with the decision to return to the league or continue a normal life. A new, terrifying curse begins to spread across both the supernatural and mortal worlds. Victims of the curse slowly start “becoming machines” their flesh turning cold and mechanical, and with that, they lose their humanity. When the curse strikes someone close to her, Amari is forced to act. She must dive back into the supernatural world to unravel the mystery behind the curse.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Amari and the Metalwork Menace is the fourth book in B.B. Alston’s Supernatural Investigations series, and I listened to it on audiobook (once again wonderfully narrated by Imani Parks).
At this point, Amari has done more for the world than any eighth grader ever should. After everything she’s been through—especially the events of book three—she’s trying to figure out how to be both a normal kid and someone who keeps saving the world. She’s stepped away from the Bureau, found a hobby she loves in swimming, and is actually thriving enough to get attention from some prestigious programs. For the first time, she’s really weighing a choice: return to her life as a hero and wizard, or hold onto being a regular kid for just a little longer.
Of course, that choice doesn’t stay hers for long.
When a mysterious supernatural “illness” hits close to home and sends one of her friends to the clinic, Amari can’t stay away. She returns as a junior agent, determined to help find answers—not just for her friend, but for everyone affected.
One of the things I continue to love about this series is how B.B. Alston keeps the story feeling fresh. Even four books in, the plot doesn’t feel recycled or stale. Alston does a fantastic job balancing action, mystery, and emotional beats in a way that keeps the pages (or chapters) flying by.
Grief and growing up are especially strong themes here. Without spoiling anything, there’s a moment at the end of book three where Amari honors someone she lost, and that comes back in book four in a way that completely caught both Amari and me off guard. It’s handled with a lot of heart and really highlights how much she’s changing.
Imani Parks once again does a great job with the narration. She’s narrated the other books in the series, and her voice has a wonderful youthful quality that fits Amari perfectly while still delivering the emotional and high-stakes moments with real impact.
I’d highly recommend this to fans of YA and middle grade fantasy, supernatural thrillers, and, of course, anyone who’s already loved books one through three. This series just keeps getting better—and watching Amari grow up while still having to save the world is both exciting and surprisingly moving.
Thank you B.B. Alston, HarperAudio, and NetGalley for the ARC!
At this point, Amari has done more for the world than any eighth grader ever should. After everything she’s been through—especially the events of book three—she’s trying to figure out how to be both a normal kid and someone who keeps saving the world. She’s stepped away from the Bureau, found a hobby she loves in swimming, and is actually thriving enough to get attention from some prestigious programs. For the first time, she’s really weighing a choice: return to her life as a hero and wizard, or hold onto being a regular kid for just a little longer.
Of course, that choice doesn’t stay hers for long.
When a mysterious supernatural “illness” hits close to home and sends one of her friends to the clinic, Amari can’t stay away. She returns as a junior agent, determined to help find answers—not just for her friend, but for everyone affected.
One of the things I continue to love about this series is how B.B. Alston keeps the story feeling fresh. Even four books in, the plot doesn’t feel recycled or stale. Alston does a fantastic job balancing action, mystery, and emotional beats in a way that keeps the pages (or chapters) flying by.
Grief and growing up are especially strong themes here. Without spoiling anything, there’s a moment at the end of book three where Amari honors someone she lost, and that comes back in book four in a way that completely caught both Amari and me off guard. It’s handled with a lot of heart and really highlights how much she’s changing.
Imani Parks once again does a great job with the narration. She’s narrated the other books in the series, and her voice has a wonderful youthful quality that fits Amari perfectly while still delivering the emotional and high-stakes moments with real impact.
I’d highly recommend this to fans of YA and middle grade fantasy, supernatural thrillers, and, of course, anyone who’s already loved books one through three. This series just keeps getting better—and watching Amari grow up while still having to save the world is both exciting and surprisingly moving.
Thank you B.B. Alston, HarperAudio, and NetGalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I have been a devout fan of this series from the moment I opened the first book, Amari and the Night Brothers. While the characters may be middle school aged, the story is well-written, the world is captivating, and the entire series perfectly enjoyable for people of all ages. As a bookseller, I find ways to handsell and recommend this series as often as possible, because it is just that good.
Book 3, Amari and the Despicable Wonders, ended tragically with a beloved character not making it out alive and a year later we are still seeing the effects of that loss. At the very beginning, Amari herself has made it very clear that she doesn’t plan on returning to the bureau, because the trauma was too intense and she has recurring nightmares about it.
When offered the option to return to active duty or for an early retirement (even though she would lose all memories of working for the bureau), she chooses the second option. That right there should tell you that what she’s going through is too much for a young teenager.
But then a new threat arrives: essentially a curse that slowly turns the affected person into a metal/clockwork person. It hits too close to home, turning one of her friend’s hearts into a ticking clock, and she decides that she can’t sit idly by. Especially when she would lose all recollection of what they are dealing with.
This is the first book that Dylan Van Helsing isn’t actively fighting and thwarting her at every turn. So it was an interesting change. He is still a part of the story and his character develops much more in this book than any other, but there is a reverting towards the end that I was a little disappointed by. I was hoping that Amari’s love interest (as far as boyfriend/girlfriend for teenagers goes) would be Jayden. He’s a much sweeter guy who shows affection in a normal way without trying to kill her. But that’s just me.
I think I read somewhere that this is supposed to be 5 books, but how am I going to deal with that when the next one comes along? I don’t want it to end.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my gifted ALC.
Book 3, Amari and the Despicable Wonders, ended tragically with a beloved character not making it out alive and a year later we are still seeing the effects of that loss. At the very beginning, Amari herself has made it very clear that she doesn’t plan on returning to the bureau, because the trauma was too intense and she has recurring nightmares about it.
When offered the option to return to active duty or for an early retirement (even though she would lose all memories of working for the bureau), she chooses the second option. That right there should tell you that what she’s going through is too much for a young teenager.
But then a new threat arrives: essentially a curse that slowly turns the affected person into a metal/clockwork person. It hits too close to home, turning one of her friend’s hearts into a ticking clock, and she decides that she can’t sit idly by. Especially when she would lose all recollection of what they are dealing with.
This is the first book that Dylan Van Helsing isn’t actively fighting and thwarting her at every turn. So it was an interesting change. He is still a part of the story and his character develops much more in this book than any other, but there is a reverting towards the end that I was a little disappointed by. I was hoping that Amari’s love interest (as far as boyfriend/girlfriend for teenagers goes) would be Jayden. He’s a much sweeter guy who shows affection in a normal way without trying to kill her. But that’s just me.
I think I read somewhere that this is supposed to be 5 books, but how am I going to deal with that when the next one comes along? I don’t want it to end.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my gifted ALC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
(4.5 stars) In Amari and the Metalwork Menace by B. B. Alston we get to see Amari growing into herself not just as a Junior Agent but as a young person learning how to make hard choices when there is no easy answer.
She starts the book trying to decide whether to retire from the Bureau and live a “normal” life, knowing that doing so would erase every memory of the supernatural world she fought to belong to. That tension alone feels so developmentally honest for middle schoolers: the pull between safety and purpose, between comfort and becoming. As the story picks up pace with a terrifying curse that slowly turns people into machines, Amari is forced to act not out of fear but out of love, grief, and integrity. Her mourning for Magnus is a guide. She asks herself what choices would make him proud, and that question shapes the kind of courage she practices.
What I love about this story for young readers is how it refuses simple good-guy/bad-guy thinking. Amari has to work alongside someone she once saw as an enemy and we are reminded of the line: “none of us are born good or bad, it’s our experiences that shape us.” Through this lens, the book opens up conversations about forgiveness, accountability, and the ethics of power especially as magic and technology intertwine in ways that mirror our own world.
Children are invited to think critically about control, memory, and what it means to protect our humanity when systems try to strip it away. More than anything, this installment shows young people that bravery is not loud heroics; it’s the steady decision to hold onto who you are, what you remember, and how you choose to treat others, even when the world feels uncertain.
She starts the book trying to decide whether to retire from the Bureau and live a “normal” life, knowing that doing so would erase every memory of the supernatural world she fought to belong to. That tension alone feels so developmentally honest for middle schoolers: the pull between safety and purpose, between comfort and becoming. As the story picks up pace with a terrifying curse that slowly turns people into machines, Amari is forced to act not out of fear but out of love, grief, and integrity. Her mourning for Magnus is a guide. She asks herself what choices would make him proud, and that question shapes the kind of courage she practices.
What I love about this story for young readers is how it refuses simple good-guy/bad-guy thinking. Amari has to work alongside someone she once saw as an enemy and we are reminded of the line: “none of us are born good or bad, it’s our experiences that shape us.” Through this lens, the book opens up conversations about forgiveness, accountability, and the ethics of power especially as magic and technology intertwine in ways that mirror our own world.
Children are invited to think critically about control, memory, and what it means to protect our humanity when systems try to strip it away. More than anything, this installment shows young people that bravery is not loud heroics; it’s the steady decision to hold onto who you are, what you remember, and how you choose to treat others, even when the world feels uncertain.
December 15, 2025
It was a welcome treat to dive back into Amari’s world.
When this book up came up for request on NetGalley, I immediately requested it. My daughter and I enjoyed listening to the first three books in the series. We weren’t even expecting a fourth book, but were over joyed to jump back into and are eager for more.
I’ll start by saying that I did listen to this with my 13-year-old daughter and we were both on the edge of our seats while listening in the car to and from school/work. For most of the drives we stayed in the car to listen to a chapter or to before stopping - that’s how captivated we were.
This book (and the rest of the series) is great for readers of any age. Amari continues to break through expectations and circumvent the rules in order to get things done. This time Lara, Tristan, and Charlotte are along for the ride. Charlotte brings her own set of prejudices against Amari; We aren’t entirely sure where Tristan’s loyalties truly lie; Lara is trying to stand out in her grandma’s eyes in order to become the new heir to the family’s legacy. With new challenges, everyone has something to prove. Dylan is even back and has a significant role to play towards the end.
I cannot wait for the next book in the series; it promises to be a good one, especially with the conclusion to book four being the biggest plot twist we have seen yet.
I highly recommend this book to readers of all ages. This series by a BIPOC author is well written, is a lot of fun and has a great cast of characters.
Many thanks to Harper Audio Children’s and NetGalley for an early listening copy of the book. The opinions expressed are given freely and are honest and my own.
When this book up came up for request on NetGalley, I immediately requested it. My daughter and I enjoyed listening to the first three books in the series. We weren’t even expecting a fourth book, but were over joyed to jump back into and are eager for more.
I’ll start by saying that I did listen to this with my 13-year-old daughter and we were both on the edge of our seats while listening in the car to and from school/work. For most of the drives we stayed in the car to listen to a chapter or to before stopping - that’s how captivated we were.
This book (and the rest of the series) is great for readers of any age. Amari continues to break through expectations and circumvent the rules in order to get things done. This time Lara, Tristan, and Charlotte are along for the ride. Charlotte brings her own set of prejudices against Amari; We aren’t entirely sure where Tristan’s loyalties truly lie; Lara is trying to stand out in her grandma’s eyes in order to become the new heir to the family’s legacy. With new challenges, everyone has something to prove. Dylan is even back and has a significant role to play towards the end.
I cannot wait for the next book in the series; it promises to be a good one, especially with the conclusion to book four being the biggest plot twist we have seen yet.
I highly recommend this book to readers of all ages. This series by a BIPOC author is well written, is a lot of fun and has a great cast of characters.
Many thanks to Harper Audio Children’s and NetGalley for an early listening copy of the book. The opinions expressed are given freely and are honest and my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 stars
I have been a huge fan of the Amari Peters books since they were first released. I love the Supernatural world and all of the different types of people/powers in it.
Book 4 opens with Amari, after saving the world three times, ready to retire from being a Junior Agent and leave the Supernatural world behind. However, a new threat has appeared, which begins to turn random body parts of people into metal. There is no rhyme or reason to who or which body parts are affected. When one of Amari's close friends becomes infected, she decides to return to the agency in an effort to get to the bottom of what is happening.
I really enjoyed this one. I thought the story was a very intriguing one, and the randomness of the Menace and how people were turning into metal was a little creepy (there's something about automotons that is always a little creepy). The Metalwork Menace was a great new villain, who I hope we see more of. And there's a great cliffhanger ending that makes me excited for the next (last?) book in the series.
If you're a fan of the previous Amari Peters books, then you will also enjoy this one. If you haven't read her books yet, I would recommend picking up the first one and giving it a shot. They're a lot of fun. Highly recommended!
Also, I listened to this as an audiobook and really enjoyed it. The narrator does a great job telling the story and bringing Amari to life, and she kept me engaged throughout the entire story.
Thanks to @netgalley and @harperaudio for a free audio ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I have been a huge fan of the Amari Peters books since they were first released. I love the Supernatural world and all of the different types of people/powers in it.
Book 4 opens with Amari, after saving the world three times, ready to retire from being a Junior Agent and leave the Supernatural world behind. However, a new threat has appeared, which begins to turn random body parts of people into metal. There is no rhyme or reason to who or which body parts are affected. When one of Amari's close friends becomes infected, she decides to return to the agency in an effort to get to the bottom of what is happening.
I really enjoyed this one. I thought the story was a very intriguing one, and the randomness of the Menace and how people were turning into metal was a little creepy (there's something about automotons that is always a little creepy). The Metalwork Menace was a great new villain, who I hope we see more of. And there's a great cliffhanger ending that makes me excited for the next (last?) book in the series.
If you're a fan of the previous Amari Peters books, then you will also enjoy this one. If you haven't read her books yet, I would recommend picking up the first one and giving it a shot. They're a lot of fun. Highly recommended!
Also, I listened to this as an audiobook and really enjoyed it. The narrator does a great job telling the story and bringing Amari to life, and she kept me engaged throughout the entire story.
Thanks to @netgalley and @harperaudio for a free audio ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is one of my favorite series. I am beyond blessed to have been accepted for ALC. I was wondering how B. B. Alston would continue this series. I was blown away by this new bad that he created. I enjoyed the new friendships that were formed in this book. I hope we get to see more of them in Book 5. The conversations of grief and healing were relatable. I did cry when reading those parts. It was nice to read that Amari is having a taste of normal life again. While it may not have lasted, it seemed like a break that she needed to heal. I was surprised that Elsie Rodriguez changed so much in this book. I found some of her decisions frustrating at times, as I felt in Book 3 about Quinton Peters. I was not expecting that ending. It will make for a great setup for Book 5. I'm eager to see how Amari and the group handle this. I highly recommend this series.
The audiobook was amazing. Imani Parks is an incredible narrator. She has narrated for this series. Imani Parks gives each character a distinct voice and a range of emotions. She really knows how to bring these characters to life. I have loved every minute of listening to these audiobooks. I actually did an entire re-listen to prepare for this audiobook. I wanted the story to be fresh in my mind. If you are an audiobook reader, then you will love these audiobooks. I highly recommend them.
Thank you to NetGalley, B. B. Alston, and HarperAudio Children’s for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.
The audiobook was amazing. Imani Parks is an incredible narrator. She has narrated for this series. Imani Parks gives each character a distinct voice and a range of emotions. She really knows how to bring these characters to life. I have loved every minute of listening to these audiobooks. I actually did an entire re-listen to prepare for this audiobook. I wanted the story to be fresh in my mind. If you are an audiobook reader, then you will love these audiobooks. I highly recommend them.
Thank you to NetGalley, B. B. Alston, and HarperAudio Children’s for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Amari and the Metalwork Menace by B. B. Alston is an exciting, emotional, and magical continuation of Amari’s journey. After the devastating losses the Bureau suffered in the war, Amari is trying to live a normal life and step away from the supernatural world. But when a terrifying new curse begins turning people into machines—and erasing their humanity—she’s pulled back into a mystery that may be connected to the First Magician.
I really loved Amari’s central conflict in this book: the choice between rejoining the Bureau as a Junior Special Agent or retiring forever and losing her memories of magic. It adds a lot of emotional depth and makes the story feel like a true turning point in her life. The stakes are high, especially when the curse affects someone close to her, and the mix of mystery, danger, and friendship kept me fully invested.
Imani Parks’ narration is fantastic and remains one of the highlights of the audiobook series. She captures Amari’s bravery, vulnerability, and determination perfectly, and brings so much personality to the cast of characters. The pacing is strong, the action scenes are gripping, and the emotional moments really land in audio format.
Overall, this is a strong, heartfelt installment that expands the world, deepens the characters, and explores meaningful themes about identity, choice, and growing up. Fans of the Amari series will absolutely want to pick this one up.
I really loved Amari’s central conflict in this book: the choice between rejoining the Bureau as a Junior Special Agent or retiring forever and losing her memories of magic. It adds a lot of emotional depth and makes the story feel like a true turning point in her life. The stakes are high, especially when the curse affects someone close to her, and the mix of mystery, danger, and friendship kept me fully invested.
Imani Parks’ narration is fantastic and remains one of the highlights of the audiobook series. She captures Amari’s bravery, vulnerability, and determination perfectly, and brings so much personality to the cast of characters. The pacing is strong, the action scenes are gripping, and the emotional moments really land in audio format.
Overall, this is a strong, heartfelt installment that expands the world, deepens the characters, and explores meaningful themes about identity, choice, and growing up. Fans of the Amari series will absolutely want to pick this one up.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
B. B. Alston returns with a story that brews bold, emotional notes from the very first chapter. In this installment, Amari is sitting with the lingering bitterness of past battles, genuinely considering retirement from the Bureau. Her spirit feels shaken, her confidence unsettled like a cup left too long to cool.
But when a close friend begins turning to metal, Amari’s instinct to protect warms right back up. She doesn’t hesitate. She steps into the heat again, proving that even when life leaves you cracked, you can still pour courage from what remains.
Alston’s storytelling is steeped with connection.
The friendships, the frictions, the quiet sips of understanding — all of it blends into a brew that feels both comforting and invigorating. I especially loved how he invites us to consider multiple perspectives, including those surrounding our favorite complicated villain, Dylan. It adds depth, like spices settling at the bottom of a well‑loved mug.
And then there’s the narration.
Imani Parks returning as the voice of Amari is the perfect steep.
She captures every tremor of fear, every spark of bravery, every moment of humor with a warmth that feels like wrapping your hands around a freshly poured cup. Hearing her again reminded me why I adore this series in audio form she is the heartbeat of Amari’s world.
But when a close friend begins turning to metal, Amari’s instinct to protect warms right back up. She doesn’t hesitate. She steps into the heat again, proving that even when life leaves you cracked, you can still pour courage from what remains.
Alston’s storytelling is steeped with connection.
The friendships, the frictions, the quiet sips of understanding — all of it blends into a brew that feels both comforting and invigorating. I especially loved how he invites us to consider multiple perspectives, including those surrounding our favorite complicated villain, Dylan. It adds depth, like spices settling at the bottom of a well‑loved mug.
And then there’s the narration.
Imani Parks returning as the voice of Amari is the perfect steep.
She captures every tremor of fear, every spark of bravery, every moment of humor with a warmth that feels like wrapping your hands around a freshly poured cup. Hearing her again reminded me why I adore this series in audio form she is the heartbeat of Amari’s world.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Amari series is one of the best middle grade fantasy series I’ve ever read. BB Alston manages to balance making Amari aspirational and relatable. And in book four, she is so very relatable.
Amari is experiencing PTSD from the events of book three (as are we all). She wants to retire and erase the memories that are hurting her. But because of a dangerous hex that is affecting her friends, she decides to continue fighting.
So much of this book is about how memories help and harm us. The trauma of what happened last summer pushes Amari to try being a normal kid for once. But erasing them means she loses important experiences that have made her who she is and created close friendships. There’s a great point about how understandable it is to see the mess around you and just want to hide. But it’s important to still feel the horror and pain so we don’t become automatons.
If I have any criticism, it’s that there a significant plot point that occurs off page and I think it would have more impact if the reader was invited to see it happen. But that doesn’t affect my enjoyment.
I have switched back and forth between the ebook and the audiobook for this series, and I want to credit Imani Parks for doing a fantastic job at bringing Amari to life.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of the arc in exchange for an honest review.
Amari is experiencing PTSD from the events of book three (as are we all). She wants to retire and erase the memories that are hurting her. But because of a dangerous hex that is affecting her friends, she decides to continue fighting.
So much of this book is about how memories help and harm us. The trauma of what happened last summer pushes Amari to try being a normal kid for once. But erasing them means she loses important experiences that have made her who she is and created close friendships. There’s a great point about how understandable it is to see the mess around you and just want to hide. But it’s important to still feel the horror and pain so we don’t become automatons.
If I have any criticism, it’s that there a significant plot point that occurs off page and I think it would have more impact if the reader was invited to see it happen. But that doesn’t affect my enjoyment.
I have switched back and forth between the ebook and the audiobook for this series, and I want to credit Imani Parks for doing a fantastic job at bringing Amari to life.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of the arc in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is hands down one of my favorite fantasy series ever. There’s just something about a truly great middle grade fantasy that hits in a way nothing else does, the whimsy, the adventure, the ride-or-die friendships, the big emotions. It’s pure magic.
B. B. Alston absolutely knocks it out of the park again with this fourth book in the series. After everything that went down in the last book, Amari is more than ready to retire early from the Bureau… but when a mysterious curse starts turning people into automatons, there’s no way she’s sitting this one out.
Honestly, I thought the series had wrapped up with the previous installment, so imagine my actual joy when I realized we were getting more. And getting to listen to an early copy? That made my year.
I love Amari and her friends so much, and in this book everything is dialed up to eleven. The stakes are higher, the emotions cut deeper, the worldbuilding expands in such cool ways, and the relationships get more layered and complicated. It still has that fun, adventurous energy, but there’s real weight to it too. I was completely locked in from start to finish.
And as always, Imani Parks is perfect as Amari in the audiobook.
Thank you to HarperAudio for an advance copy.
B. B. Alston absolutely knocks it out of the park again with this fourth book in the series. After everything that went down in the last book, Amari is more than ready to retire early from the Bureau… but when a mysterious curse starts turning people into automatons, there’s no way she’s sitting this one out.
Honestly, I thought the series had wrapped up with the previous installment, so imagine my actual joy when I realized we were getting more. And getting to listen to an early copy? That made my year.
I love Amari and her friends so much, and in this book everything is dialed up to eleven. The stakes are higher, the emotions cut deeper, the worldbuilding expands in such cool ways, and the relationships get more layered and complicated. It still has that fun, adventurous energy, but there’s real weight to it too. I was completely locked in from start to finish.
And as always, Imani Parks is perfect as Amari in the audiobook.
Thank you to HarperAudio for an advance copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Amari and the Metalwork Menace is the fourth book in this series that follows Amari as she navigates life after the incidents of book three. At the beginning of this book, she is faced with a tough decision, continue working as a Junior Agent or retire from the bureau for good. But all that seems small when people Amari knows begin to be infected with metalwork and begin turning into machines.
I loved this book. I love this series. It feels so refreshing even as an adult reader. I love all the characters and the magic system that exists in this world. This series makes me feel like a kid again while reading it which doesn’t happen often with middle grade series. The story has a complexity to it and the characters have to make really tough decisions. There were times that I couldn’t have guessed which direction the story was going to go. And that ending?!? Now I have to wait for another book?!?
I can’t recommend this series enough. If you have a middle grade reader, highly recommend. If you are an adult looking for some of that childhood magic, highly recommend. Just a great series all around.
I loved this book. I love this series. It feels so refreshing even as an adult reader. I love all the characters and the magic system that exists in this world. This series makes me feel like a kid again while reading it which doesn’t happen often with middle grade series. The story has a complexity to it and the characters have to make really tough decisions. There were times that I couldn’t have guessed which direction the story was going to go. And that ending?!? Now I have to wait for another book?!?
I can’t recommend this series enough. If you have a middle grade reader, highly recommend. If you are an adult looking for some of that childhood magic, highly recommend. Just a great series all around.
February 26, 2026
This one I think was really good. I enjoyed it is probably my favorite in the series. Amari is dealing with the fallout from the war and thinking about walking away from the Bureau for good, which already adds depth to the overall story, but when a curse starts turning people into metal, she’s forced right back in. There's a strong emotional connection with the MC, this is because the characters are more layered and have more depth. This is because they deal with guilt, grief, and difficult choices. Really enjoyed the relationships, the friendships stand out in a big way, showing real maturity and honesty instead of easy resolutions. The antagonist is unsettling and memorable. I also appreciated how the story balances intense moments with quieter scenes that actually let everything sink in. It doesn't feel rushed, and the growth across the cast makes the journey even more satisfying. I was already excited for this series and now can't wait for the next one! I think this is a great for any age, but it definitely fits the genre
I had an ALC from NetGalley and the narrator did an excellent job. Thanks to NetGalley and HarperAudio Children’s | Storytide for the ARC.
I had an ALC from NetGalley and the narrator did an excellent job. Thanks to NetGalley and HarperAudio Children’s | Storytide for the ARC.
January 18, 2026
Immediately coming back into this world, I feel for Amari and why she wants to leave this world behind. As a kid, she’s gone through so much and had a ton of pressure on her shoulders. She definitely deserves a break, but I also understand how hard it would be to separate yourself from your friends and what has become her new normal. We also know at this point how curious and headstrong Amari can be, so it was no surprise that she started poking her nose into bureau business lol.
Amari is everything you’d expect from a young teenage girl and I love that about her. Did she make rash decisions? Yes. Does she get everything right? No. Does she love her friends and family enough to rush headfirst into danger? Always. Again, had me thinking like please just think some more before getting angry about something, but remembered, she’s not gonna be the most rational person at 14. None of them are lol. I love getting to see her and the gang grow as they encounter these challenges together. The ending?!?!!?!! I can’t wait for the next one!!!
Thank you NetGalley and HarperAudio for the ALC!
Amari is everything you’d expect from a young teenage girl and I love that about her. Did she make rash decisions? Yes. Does she get everything right? No. Does she love her friends and family enough to rush headfirst into danger? Always. Again, had me thinking like please just think some more before getting angry about something, but remembered, she’s not gonna be the most rational person at 14. None of them are lol. I love getting to see her and the gang grow as they encounter these challenges together. The ending?!?!!?!! I can’t wait for the next one!!!
Thank you NetGalley and HarperAudio for the ALC!
Review of advance copy
Indigo mailed me my copy of Amari and the Metalwork Menace four days before the book's official release date; I finished reading it in two days. The fourth instalment of B.B. Alston's Supernatural Investigations series is just as exhilarating as the previous three books in the series so it's no surprise I finished reading it so fast!
Magnus' death in the previous book has affected Amari's mental health since she constantly blames herself for his tragic fate. Seeing the healthy and unhealthy ways she deals with it is truly eye-opening. Therapy has helped me a lot over the years and I hope Amari will inspire other readers to seek out the help they need.
As exhilarating as the action is in this book, the real cherry is the camaraderie between Amari and her squadmates during their work on the Metalwork Menace case. Amari makes new allies and friends among old and new rivals and enemies, showing us that people aren't as black and white as we think.
I'm definitely ecstatic for the next instalment in B.B. Alston's Supernatural Investigations series.
Magnus' death in the previous book has affected Amari's mental health since she constantly blames herself for his tragic fate. Seeing the healthy and unhealthy ways she deals with it is truly eye-opening. Therapy has helped me a lot over the years and I hope Amari will inspire other readers to seek out the help they need.
As exhilarating as the action is in this book, the real cherry is the camaraderie between Amari and her squadmates during their work on the Metalwork Menace case. Amari makes new allies and friends among old and new rivals and enemies, showing us that people aren't as black and white as we think.
I'm definitely ecstatic for the next instalment in B.B. Alston's Supernatural Investigations series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
*Thank you to Storytide and NetGalley for an ALC in exchange for my honest review*
I love the Supernatural Investigations books so much. Amari and the Metalwork Menace is definitely darker than the previous installments. We're dealing with grief from the last book, a magical curse that's turning people to metal, and of course the stress of a Junior Special Agent Program. But once Amari is back in the game, she's BACK baby! I enjoyed getting to see characters from the older books, as well as explore relationships with new characters. Imani Parks is delightful as always as she voices Amari and a motley crüe of other characters.
I'm hoping that as the series goes on, the characters mature a little. However the time between each book is relatively low (usually on the order of weeks rather than months or years), so I understand why these characters are still a bit childish. Also I'm not the target audience, so that makes sense.
But the ending????? Holy cow.
I love the Supernatural Investigations books so much. Amari and the Metalwork Menace is definitely darker than the previous installments. We're dealing with grief from the last book, a magical curse that's turning people to metal, and of course the stress of a Junior Special Agent Program. But once Amari is back in the game, she's BACK baby! I enjoyed getting to see characters from the older books, as well as explore relationships with new characters. Imani Parks is delightful as always as she voices Amari and a motley crüe of other characters.
I'm hoping that as the series goes on, the characters mature a little. However the time between each book is relatively low (usually on the order of weeks rather than months or years), so I understand why these characters are still a bit childish. Also I'm not the target audience, so that makes sense.
But the ending????? Holy cow.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
As always, Amari is engaged in shenanigans that would have turned my hair white and/or given me heart palpitations as her mother... this is my fourth time reading about her unpredictable, VERY interesting life and the second time that I've gotten to read about her via an ARC that I received courtesy of NetGalley, B.B. Alston and HarperCollins. Amari starts out trying to deal with loss and retiring from her "secret" life only to be sucked back into the supernatural side of daily life by unfortunate events that affect her friends. We see that Lara and Elsie have learned how to keep secrets, while enemies at the start of the book (like Charlotte and Tristan) are allies by the end. I am disappointed in the ending because it seems very cliffhanger-ish but I AM looking forward to the Metalwork Menace 2.0. I would recommend this book for young adults that have a hard time finding interesting things to read and adults who love a good supernatural/sci-fi story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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