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Sneaks
A missing child and an apartment that
should
be empty spur two tweens to solve an increasingly tangled neighborhood mystery in this must-listen middle grade debut.
This hijinks-heavy mystery written in dual POV is like Only Murders in the Building for tweens. Perfect for wannabe sleuths and nosy neighbors!
Valory has developed an unfortunate reputation as a thief—primarily because she steals things—though she has resolved to change her ways.
Rook is a total asparagus-eater (aka a good kid), but he likes to spy on his neighbors. Nobody's perfect, right?
The twelve-year-olds form an unlikely alliance when they encounter suspicious behavior in an "empty" apartment across the alley from Rook's house. While agoraphobia keeps homeschooled Rook trapped on his property, confident and street-smart Valory can roam the scene undetected. Their opposite personalities might, in fact, be key to their success.
But their amateur detective mission morphs into something more sinister when they realize the apartment next door could be connected to a recent kidnapping. When the sleuths realize they're also being watched, the pressure is on to unmask the villain . . . before she snatches them, too.
This hijinks-heavy mystery written in dual POV is like Only Murders in the Building for tweens. Perfect for wannabe sleuths and nosy neighbors!
Valory has developed an unfortunate reputation as a thief—primarily because she steals things—though she has resolved to change her ways.
Rook is a total asparagus-eater (aka a good kid), but he likes to spy on his neighbors. Nobody's perfect, right?
The twelve-year-olds form an unlikely alliance when they encounter suspicious behavior in an "empty" apartment across the alley from Rook's house. While agoraphobia keeps homeschooled Rook trapped on his property, confident and street-smart Valory can roam the scene undetected. Their opposite personalities might, in fact, be key to their success.
But their amateur detective mission morphs into something more sinister when they realize the apartment next door could be connected to a recent kidnapping. When the sleuths realize they're also being watched, the pressure is on to unmask the villain . . . before she snatches them, too.
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Published July 14, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
August 9, 2026
I don't usually read middle-grade books, but this was fun. The main characters, Valory and Rook, were nicely fleshed out and weren't just defined by their major traits ("thief" and "music prodigy," respectively), and they did grow and learn from their experiences throughout the course of the book. In fact, I think there is even more room for growth in their story, and I could see this becoming a series, or at least a duology - and I think Tiff and Bruno (and Chewbarka) could be great sidekicks.
July 6, 2026
Review of advanced copy received from NetGalley
Sneaks is a debut mystery by Amy Tern about two kids who form an unlikely friendship. Rook is a piano prodigy who’s been homeschooled and developed agoraphobia, and Valory is the daughter of his family’s cleaning lady. Valory has a reputation for being a “bad kid” because she has a history of thievery, but together they discover a mystery in the apartment building across from Rook’s house, a mystery that may involved a kidnapped child they’re desperate to save. Both characters are well developed with interesting backstories woven into the text. The story starts off a little slowly, but it quickly picks up at the midpoint and then it rockets forward until the satisfying ending. It contains lovely themes about friendship, learning to trust yourself, and doing what you can to help others without ever being didactic. This is a very satisfying, well done novel that I, as a bookseller, will be recommending to customers who want a fun middle grade mystery.
Sneaks is a debut mystery by Amy Tern about two kids who form an unlikely friendship. Rook is a piano prodigy who’s been homeschooled and developed agoraphobia, and Valory is the daughter of his family’s cleaning lady. Valory has a reputation for being a “bad kid” because she has a history of thievery, but together they discover a mystery in the apartment building across from Rook’s house, a mystery that may involved a kidnapped child they’re desperate to save. Both characters are well developed with interesting backstories woven into the text. The story starts off a little slowly, but it quickly picks up at the midpoint and then it rockets forward until the satisfying ending. It contains lovely themes about friendship, learning to trust yourself, and doing what you can to help others without ever being didactic. This is a very satisfying, well done novel that I, as a bookseller, will be recommending to customers who want a fun middle grade mystery.
July 12, 2026
Rook is a homeschooled musical prodigy, Valory is a public school kleptomaniac who has been caught one too many times. Valory and Rook meet when he covers for her stealing something from his mother. The friendship begins when Valory begins realizing she wants to be good, and Rook realizes he is vastly overprotected. Observing the building across the street (quiet time on the balcony is Rook's favorite thing to do), Rook suspects someone in the neighboring building has been kidnapped. Rook and Valory begin investigating and can't quite stay out of trouble as they try to prove their case.
I loved this book! I so hope to see it on many state reading award books for upper elementary, lower middle school aged readers. Good suspense, likable, relatable characters, and excellent flow to the story.
I loved this book! I so hope to see it on many state reading award books for upper elementary, lower middle school aged readers. Good suspense, likable, relatable characters, and excellent flow to the story.
July 7, 2026
Sneaks is a fun one too. Unlikely friendship of a kid always in trouble and a prodigy pianist 12 year old with agoraphobia get together to investigate a neighbor. It's not very long and it grabs us from the very first page because of the main character's life circumstances.
July 14, 2026
Middle grade mystery. I enjoyed all of it. I think this would be a great book to read aloud to a 4th or 5th grade class. Valery and Rook are polar opposites but find commonalities. The mystery aspect had you guessing until the very end.
August 24, 2026
There are not many children books about mental health issues (honestly, there aren't enough books about the complexity of mental health or the stigma surrounding it, but that is a story for another day) and I was really impressed with how this book addressed this health issue.
August 15, 2026
An excellent middle reader mystery!
This is such a fun and unique story, great for young readers as well as for adults who enjoy kids books.
Valory and Rook, our junior sleuths, are an unlikely pair who team up to solve a local mystery and become great friends and better people along the way.
There’s a degree of nuance to this not often present in kids mysteries, mostly evident in the fact that the kids have entirely the wrong idea about the specifics of what they’re doing, but in a broader sense they got it right.
And their parents aren’t the mindless or cruel parents we often see in books that leave kids to their own devices, but rather good parents who don’t always get everything right. So, y’know, kinda like most real parents.
Excellent sense of place, some really good humor, and a clever mystery make this a really good read.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
This is such a fun and unique story, great for young readers as well as for adults who enjoy kids books.
Valory and Rook, our junior sleuths, are an unlikely pair who team up to solve a local mystery and become great friends and better people along the way.
There’s a degree of nuance to this not often present in kids mysteries, mostly evident in the fact that the kids have entirely the wrong idea about the specifics of what they’re doing, but in a broader sense they got it right.
And their parents aren’t the mindless or cruel parents we often see in books that leave kids to their own devices, but rather good parents who don’t always get everything right. So, y’know, kinda like most real parents.
Excellent sense of place, some really good humor, and a clever mystery make this a really good read.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
July 31, 2026
I listened to the audiobook of SNEAKS, a middle grade mystery. The dual male/female narrators were a great decision for this story told in alternating perspectives from Vallory and Rook's points of view. It was especially fun to listen to this because of the Boston setting; having just visited I appreciated the accuracy of the location and the authenticity of those choices.
This is very much a middle grade mystery, and I appreciated how the two 12 yo main characters had their imaginations run wild in ways that were so very tween (and so very cringe at times for adults). Rook and Vallory are brought together from vastly different life experiences, yet they find they actually have a lot in common, and I think that takeaway alone is so valuable. The friendships that are formed and mended in this book feel realistic and authentic. And the mystery is different! They spy on a mystery neighbor and then hear about a kidnapping on the news. Could the two be connected? It sure seems that way!
This book also navigated a few deep topics without being message-driven. I love that about middle grade. I do wish there had been less lying from both main characters. I understand why it was used to move the story forward (and there is some consequence/apology) but that's kind of a personal pet peeve for me.
As a weird kid who loved old movies, I watched Rear Window many times growing up, and I loved the slight nods to that story in this book.
This is very much a middle grade mystery, and I appreciated how the two 12 yo main characters had their imaginations run wild in ways that were so very tween (and so very cringe at times for adults). Rook and Vallory are brought together from vastly different life experiences, yet they find they actually have a lot in common, and I think that takeaway alone is so valuable. The friendships that are formed and mended in this book feel realistic and authentic. And the mystery is different! They spy on a mystery neighbor and then hear about a kidnapping on the news. Could the two be connected? It sure seems that way!
This book also navigated a few deep topics without being message-driven. I love that about middle grade. I do wish there had been less lying from both main characters. I understand why it was used to move the story forward (and there is some consequence/apology) but that's kind of a personal pet peeve for me.
As a weird kid who loved old movies, I watched Rear Window many times growing up, and I loved the slight nods to that story in this book.
July 11, 2026
This was such an entertaining middle grade mystery! I loved watching Valory & Rook's unlikely friendship grow as they chased clues around their neighbourhood. The mystery was fun! A great pick for young readers who love clever sleuths and page-turning adventures. My son and I did a buddy read, we both really enjoyed it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2026
Valory has a reputation as a thief and liar. She is rude to all the adults in her life, especially her mother's boyfriend. She gives adults rude nicknames that she calls them behind their backs. She is well-known at her school for elaborate pranks and for stealing from the teachers. She disobeys her mother on various occasions, saying she knows she will get in trouble, but she doesn't care.
In contrast, Rook is a responsible young man who diligently practices the piano for an upcoming music competition, but his agoraphobia gets worse and worse until he can't leave the house without his parents close by.
When Valory comes along, she ropes him into her wild ways, encouraging him to disobey his parents and lie to them. Valory sneers at Rook's good behavior, and he is eager to prove that he is not a "good kid". Together, they investigate a strange woman in the next building, who is hiding a child in her apartment. They think the child might have been kidnapped, but they need proof.
This book is so horrible in so many ways. The moral philosophy is just as bad as it could be. It glorifies Valory's escapades and rude behavior. She says that she loves the "thrill" of stealing and it makes her feel "free" and alive. Both Valory and Rook seem perfectly okay with lying to their parents since they have a "good reason". They have no shame and no repentance for their misconduct.
There is also a subplot where Valory’s mother’s boyfriend sleeps over at their house and the boyfriend tells Valory that his relationship with her mother has “progressed”. There is nothing explicit, but even the hint is inappropriate to include in a children’s book.
Valory has a tiny bit of redemption at the end when she apologizes to her mother's boyfriend for her bad behavior toward him. But she doesn't apologize to her mother. She doesn't apologize to her teachers. She doesn't make things right with her mom's boss. She doesn't seem to repent or really change her ways. After an entire book of her bad behavior, one feeble "I'm sorry" was just too little, too late for a redemption arc. Same thing with Rook. He never apologizes to his mother for lying to her and disobeying her. All their relationships are so broken, and the story gives no healing or restoration.
The mystery itself was okay as they spy on the neighbor and try to figure out if the child in the apartment has been kidnapped. The writing style is good. I just hated Valory and Rook so much for their terrible lack of morals, and the way this book glorified their bad behavior.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review.
This book has been screened on the Screen It First website for lying, stealing, and some poor language. https://screenitfirst.com/book/sneaks...
In contrast, Rook is a responsible young man who diligently practices the piano for an upcoming music competition, but his agoraphobia gets worse and worse until he can't leave the house without his parents close by.
When Valory comes along, she ropes him into her wild ways, encouraging him to disobey his parents and lie to them. Valory sneers at Rook's good behavior, and he is eager to prove that he is not a "good kid". Together, they investigate a strange woman in the next building, who is hiding a child in her apartment. They think the child might have been kidnapped, but they need proof.
This book is so horrible in so many ways. The moral philosophy is just as bad as it could be. It glorifies Valory's escapades and rude behavior. She says that she loves the "thrill" of stealing and it makes her feel "free" and alive. Both Valory and Rook seem perfectly okay with lying to their parents since they have a "good reason". They have no shame and no repentance for their misconduct.
There is also a subplot where Valory’s mother’s boyfriend sleeps over at their house and the boyfriend tells Valory that his relationship with her mother has “progressed”. There is nothing explicit, but even the hint is inappropriate to include in a children’s book.
Valory has a tiny bit of redemption at the end when she apologizes to her mother's boyfriend for her bad behavior toward him. But she doesn't apologize to her mother. She doesn't apologize to her teachers. She doesn't make things right with her mom's boss. She doesn't seem to repent or really change her ways. After an entire book of her bad behavior, one feeble "I'm sorry" was just too little, too late for a redemption arc. Same thing with Rook. He never apologizes to his mother for lying to her and disobeying her. All their relationships are so broken, and the story gives no healing or restoration.
The mystery itself was okay as they spy on the neighbor and try to figure out if the child in the apartment has been kidnapped. The writing style is good. I just hated Valory and Rook so much for their terrible lack of morals, and the way this book glorified their bad behavior.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review.
This book has been screened on the Screen It First website for lying, stealing, and some poor language. https://screenitfirst.com/book/sneaks...
July 7, 2026
Valory and Rook are a mismatched pair who meet when Valory is accused of theft while she and her mom clean Rook's house. As an "asparagus-eater" (rich kid), Rook lives a charmed life in Valory's eyes, but she soon figures out that he's suffering from agoraphobia as they work to solve a mystery in an apartment across the alley.
Middle-grade mysteries can be tough to judge: if an adult reader guesses the twist, does that mean younger readers will be able to as well? Probably not in this case -- and even if they do, Valory and Rook are unique characters that will keep them reading. 4 stars for the friendships, as well as the family dynamics.
Thanks to NetGalley and Holiday House for the eARC.
Middle-grade mysteries can be tough to judge: if an adult reader guesses the twist, does that mean younger readers will be able to as well? Probably not in this case -- and even if they do, Valory and Rook are unique characters that will keep them reading. 4 stars for the friendships, as well as the family dynamics.
Thanks to NetGalley and Holiday House for the eARC.
August 8, 2026
I thought this was such a fun middle grade debut! I completely related to Rook and Valory! I liked to sneak around and watch my neighbors when I was a kid! I thought I was such a cool detective! Sadly, my neighbors weren’t nearly as interesting as Rook’s!
There is so much to like about this book! The story is engaging and relatable, good suspense, likable characters, and great pacing! The mystery was unique and the I found the ending to be believable. I think young readers will really enjoying this one.
If you enjoy middle grade mysteries full of friendships, suspense, and likable characters, then I recommend picking this one up!
There is so much to like about this book! The story is engaging and relatable, good suspense, likable characters, and great pacing! The mystery was unique and the I found the ending to be believable. I think young readers will really enjoying this one.
If you enjoy middle grade mysteries full of friendships, suspense, and likable characters, then I recommend picking this one up!
July 20, 2026
Sneaks is a fun and thoughtful middle-grade mystery featuring an unlikely duo: a homeschooled piano prodigy and a girl who has a habit of finding herself in trouble.
I really enjoyed how the book balanced its unique mystery with well-developed characters and meaningful topics. It explores mental health, complicated family relationships, changing family dynamics, and the pressure adults can place on kids, without allowing those heavier themes to overwhelm the story.
This would be a great book to read aloud or share with middle-grade students because it offers plenty to discuss while still keeping readers invested in solving the mystery. If you enjoy middle-grade mysteries with memorable characters and important representation, add this one to your TBR.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy of Sneaks. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed how the book balanced its unique mystery with well-developed characters and meaningful topics. It explores mental health, complicated family relationships, changing family dynamics, and the pressure adults can place on kids, without allowing those heavier themes to overwhelm the story.
This would be a great book to read aloud or share with middle-grade students because it offers plenty to discuss while still keeping readers invested in solving the mystery. If you enjoy middle-grade mysteries with memorable characters and important representation, add this one to your TBR.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy of Sneaks. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 5, 2026
Sneaks is a middle grade mystery book about friendship. It’s a dual POV story about two characters who are unique and different from each other but form a bond and help each other out. It’s about coming out of your shell and realizing that you don’t have to do certain things to get attention. For young readers who love books with mysteries, this is a great read.
August 31, 2026
From now on, I will never hear "On Top of Spaghetti" without thinking of this book 😭 This was SO GOOD. Would love to see more adventures of Valory and Rook, if it's a possibility!
September 7, 2026
The Rear Window for kids! Believable and exciting!
September 12, 2026
A fun mystery—reminded me of a MG version of Only Murders in the Building. The writing was a little flat though at times. Full review to come.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
Vallory is angry that Mrs. Sagara would accuse her of stealing an antique coin from her collection, especially since she was dealing with the disgusting bathroom to help out her mother, Alyssa, who works as a cleaner for the imperious woman. Waiting on the balcony for the reckoning with her mother, she runs into Rook Sagara and asks for his help. She DID steal the coin and claims she was going to put it back. Rook, who is homeschooled and under a lot of pressure to do well at an upcoming piano competition, agrees. The two form an odd friendship after Vallory travels back on the bus from her home in Grumdale back to the fancy Charles Hill neighborhood of Boston where Rook lives. Rook introduces her to a mystery involving the next door Faden House. Mrs. Sagara rents out rooms there, and Rook thinks there is a girl living in one of the apartments, even though his mother's records don't indicate this. After spying on the building, the kids see a mysterious woman, Ms. Smith, set fire to a doll on the balcony. When they hear that a local girl, Lottie, has been kidnapped, they assume the worst. Since Vallory's mother is dating a policeman, Burke, Vallory lies to her mother about being at Make-a-Pot, and continues to visit Rook, even though Ms. Smith complains to Mrs. Sagara. The two continue their investigation, even bringing in Vallory's former friend Tiff who was told not to hang out with Vallory after she shoplifted items from the local WalMart. When circumstances turn out to be more serious than they could have suspected, will Vallory and Rook be able to save the day?
Strengths: Rook and Vallory are both children who are in need of a friendship, and the two end up supporting each other in valuable ways. Rook has developed anxiety, especially about going outside the house, that his family doesn't seem to appreciate. Similarly, Vallory acts out, possibly over tension with her mother and concern over their financial instability. Her father, whom she refers to as "Dastardly Dan", lives in Australia. While the two try to sneak around, the aren't very adept at it, and it is realistic that neighbors are upset to find that children are trespassing and harassing the neighbors, even if they end up having a really good reason to do so. Both children have well developed back stories that add a lot to the narrative. The ending is satisfying, but I don't want to give away any twists and turns.
Weaknesses: While Rook and Vallory's concerns end up being very serious, this has a feeling of goofiness to it that might not appeal to middle school readers who want darker thrillers like the works of April Henry. The mirrors on Ms. Smith's hat made me take her less seriously.
What I really think: Readers who are amused by meddlesome children like Fitzhugh's Harriet the Spy will appreciate Vallory's efforts to uncover a mystery. At first I thought this was going in a similar direction to The Treasure of Maria Mamoun, but in the end it felt a little more like Trouble at the Tangerine or Millington's Once for Yes.
Vallory is angry that Mrs. Sagara would accuse her of stealing an antique coin from her collection, especially since she was dealing with the disgusting bathroom to help out her mother, Alyssa, who works as a cleaner for the imperious woman. Waiting on the balcony for the reckoning with her mother, she runs into Rook Sagara and asks for his help. She DID steal the coin and claims she was going to put it back. Rook, who is homeschooled and under a lot of pressure to do well at an upcoming piano competition, agrees. The two form an odd friendship after Vallory travels back on the bus from her home in Grumdale back to the fancy Charles Hill neighborhood of Boston where Rook lives. Rook introduces her to a mystery involving the next door Faden House. Mrs. Sagara rents out rooms there, and Rook thinks there is a girl living in one of the apartments, even though his mother's records don't indicate this. After spying on the building, the kids see a mysterious woman, Ms. Smith, set fire to a doll on the balcony. When they hear that a local girl, Lottie, has been kidnapped, they assume the worst. Since Vallory's mother is dating a policeman, Burke, Vallory lies to her mother about being at Make-a-Pot, and continues to visit Rook, even though Ms. Smith complains to Mrs. Sagara. The two continue their investigation, even bringing in Vallory's former friend Tiff who was told not to hang out with Vallory after she shoplifted items from the local WalMart. When circumstances turn out to be more serious than they could have suspected, will Vallory and Rook be able to save the day?
Strengths: Rook and Vallory are both children who are in need of a friendship, and the two end up supporting each other in valuable ways. Rook has developed anxiety, especially about going outside the house, that his family doesn't seem to appreciate. Similarly, Vallory acts out, possibly over tension with her mother and concern over their financial instability. Her father, whom she refers to as "Dastardly Dan", lives in Australia. While the two try to sneak around, the aren't very adept at it, and it is realistic that neighbors are upset to find that children are trespassing and harassing the neighbors, even if they end up having a really good reason to do so. Both children have well developed back stories that add a lot to the narrative. The ending is satisfying, but I don't want to give away any twists and turns.
Weaknesses: While Rook and Vallory's concerns end up being very serious, this has a feeling of goofiness to it that might not appeal to middle school readers who want darker thrillers like the works of April Henry. The mirrors on Ms. Smith's hat made me take her less seriously.
What I really think: Readers who are amused by meddlesome children like Fitzhugh's Harriet the Spy will appreciate Vallory's efforts to uncover a mystery. At first I thought this was going in a similar direction to The Treasure of Maria Mamoun, but in the end it felt a little more like Trouble at the Tangerine or Millington's Once for Yes.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
What worked:
The alliance between Valory and Rook is unlikely due to their diverse family situations. Rook’s family is wealthy, and everyone in it has musical talent. Rook is a piano prodigy, but he doesn’t like how it makes his mother overly protective. Valory’s mother cleans the home for Rook’s family, and the book’s opening finds Valory helping her mother. She hates that she’s accused of stealing an ancient coin, mostly because she’s guilty. Rook is surprised when he lies to cover Valory’s crime, and that begins their partnership. Rook needs help investigating a possible crime, and Valory is equally intrigued about the problem he describes.
Alternating chapters focus on Valory or Rook, allowing readers to see inside their minds. Valory’s mother is dating a policeman, which is ironic considering Valory isn’t an upstanding, honest student or girl. She can get good grades at school, but she doesn’t always follow the rules. Valory doesn’t like her mother’s new boyfriend, and it creates a conflict for her. Rook is the opposite of Valory, and she’s amused by his need to be perfect. Rook can’t believe Valory rides the bus by herself, but admires her ability to go out into public. He loves to play the piano, but he doesn’t always get to play the songs he wants. Rook’s relationship with his mother is conflicted and will need to be resolved in the end. Valory’s trying to behave better to earn the trust of others, and Rook takes chances he’s never taken before. Their alliance to solve a crime is complicated when their parents forbid them from seeing each other.
The clues of the kidnapped girl are circumstantial, so the mystery isn’t easily solved. Rook thinks he sees a young girl in the apartment across the alley, but she’s never seen outside. He assumes something’s wrong and begins to notice other things. A woman leaves the apartment building at the same time every day, and she certainly behaves oddly. Valory helps Rook investigate, but they still make many assumptions. Readers won’t know the real story until the plot reaches its climax.
What didn’t work as well:
Valory and Rook’s characters aren’t developed as much as readers might like. There are some explanations for their behaviors, but it still feels like more is needed. They’re complex characters.
The final verdict:
The author develops a plot that seems to have a clear direction, but some clues don’t make sense. That’s because the story isn’t as clear as anticipated. I suggest you try it for yourself.
The alliance between Valory and Rook is unlikely due to their diverse family situations. Rook’s family is wealthy, and everyone in it has musical talent. Rook is a piano prodigy, but he doesn’t like how it makes his mother overly protective. Valory’s mother cleans the home for Rook’s family, and the book’s opening finds Valory helping her mother. She hates that she’s accused of stealing an ancient coin, mostly because she’s guilty. Rook is surprised when he lies to cover Valory’s crime, and that begins their partnership. Rook needs help investigating a possible crime, and Valory is equally intrigued about the problem he describes.
Alternating chapters focus on Valory or Rook, allowing readers to see inside their minds. Valory’s mother is dating a policeman, which is ironic considering Valory isn’t an upstanding, honest student or girl. She can get good grades at school, but she doesn’t always follow the rules. Valory doesn’t like her mother’s new boyfriend, and it creates a conflict for her. Rook is the opposite of Valory, and she’s amused by his need to be perfect. Rook can’t believe Valory rides the bus by herself, but admires her ability to go out into public. He loves to play the piano, but he doesn’t always get to play the songs he wants. Rook’s relationship with his mother is conflicted and will need to be resolved in the end. Valory’s trying to behave better to earn the trust of others, and Rook takes chances he’s never taken before. Their alliance to solve a crime is complicated when their parents forbid them from seeing each other.
The clues of the kidnapped girl are circumstantial, so the mystery isn’t easily solved. Rook thinks he sees a young girl in the apartment across the alley, but she’s never seen outside. He assumes something’s wrong and begins to notice other things. A woman leaves the apartment building at the same time every day, and she certainly behaves oddly. Valory helps Rook investigate, but they still make many assumptions. Readers won’t know the real story until the plot reaches its climax.
What didn’t work as well:
Valory and Rook’s characters aren’t developed as much as readers might like. There are some explanations for their behaviors, but it still feels like more is needed. They’re complex characters.
The final verdict:
The author develops a plot that seems to have a clear direction, but some clues don’t make sense. That’s because the story isn’t as clear as anticipated. I suggest you try it for yourself.
July 10, 2026
Sneaks is a delightful middle grade mystery that perfectly blends suspense, humor, and heart into an adventure that's impossible to put down. Amy Tern's debut introduces readers to two unforgettable young detectives whose differences become their greatest strength as they unravel an increasingly dangerous mystery.
Valory and Rook are wonderfully developed protagonists. Valory's struggle to leave behind her reputation as a thief makes her immediately sympathetic, while Rook's cautious nature, curiosity, and love of observing the world around him provide the perfect counterbalance. Their growing friendship feels genuine, and watching them learn to trust one another becomes just as rewarding as solving the mystery itself.
The mystery is cleverly paced from beginning to end. What starts with suspicious activity in an apartment that should be empty quickly escalates into a far more serious investigation involving a missing child. Each new clue builds tension while encouraging readers to piece together the puzzle alongside the characters, making the story both engaging and highly interactive.
Beyond its exciting plot, Sneaks explores themes of redemption, bravery, friendship, trust, and overcoming personal limitations. Valory's desire to change and Rook's determination to step beyond his comfort zone create emotional depth that complements the thrilling mystery without ever slowing the story's momentum.
Amy Tern also captures the excitement of neighborhood adventures perfectly. The familiar setting, colorful cast of neighbors, and constant feeling that danger could be lurking just around the corner create an immersive atmosphere that will appeal to young mystery lovers from beginning to end.
Sneaks is a smart, entertaining, and thoroughly satisfying middle grade mystery that combines memorable characters, clever plotting, and meaningful themes into a story readers won't soon forget. It's an excellent choice for classrooms, libraries, book clubs, and any young reader who enjoys solving mysteries, rooting for underdogs, and embarking on unforgettable adventures.
Valory and Rook are wonderfully developed protagonists. Valory's struggle to leave behind her reputation as a thief makes her immediately sympathetic, while Rook's cautious nature, curiosity, and love of observing the world around him provide the perfect counterbalance. Their growing friendship feels genuine, and watching them learn to trust one another becomes just as rewarding as solving the mystery itself.
The mystery is cleverly paced from beginning to end. What starts with suspicious activity in an apartment that should be empty quickly escalates into a far more serious investigation involving a missing child. Each new clue builds tension while encouraging readers to piece together the puzzle alongside the characters, making the story both engaging and highly interactive.
Beyond its exciting plot, Sneaks explores themes of redemption, bravery, friendship, trust, and overcoming personal limitations. Valory's desire to change and Rook's determination to step beyond his comfort zone create emotional depth that complements the thrilling mystery without ever slowing the story's momentum.
Amy Tern also captures the excitement of neighborhood adventures perfectly. The familiar setting, colorful cast of neighbors, and constant feeling that danger could be lurking just around the corner create an immersive atmosphere that will appeal to young mystery lovers from beginning to end.
Sneaks is a smart, entertaining, and thoroughly satisfying middle grade mystery that combines memorable characters, clever plotting, and meaningful themes into a story readers won't soon forget. It's an excellent choice for classrooms, libraries, book clubs, and any young reader who enjoys solving mysteries, rooting for underdogs, and embarking on unforgettable adventures.
July 29, 2026
Whyyyyyy do authors feel the need to insert adult content into children's books?!?
No, it is not explicit. But it is unnecessary and not at all appropriate.
I will share the (page 16) excerpt that made me DNF this book. The setup is that Valory, who is a known kleptomaniac, is riding in the back of the police car driven by her mom's boyfriend (Burke) after another incident where she stole something, was accused, but had someone else willing to take the fall for it.
Excerpt:
"Would you trust me if..." she paused, drawing out the moment.
"If what?"
She made her voice cool and casual. "If, say, your gold chain was missing..."
Burke's hand flew to his neck and his jaw dropped. "How did you---"
She enjoyed his shock for a solid moment before telling him the truth. "Don't worry. It's at home. I found it by the bathroom sink this morning after breakfast." She folded her arms and raised her eyebrows at the word breakfast because she wasn't born yesterday.
He rubbed his neck and stammered. "W-we were going to tell you. Things have progressed..."
She tapped the door. "Can you open the door now?"
"I mean, your mother and I have been getting more--"
"I get it, okay? I'm not six years old. Door, please!"
No, it is not explicit. But it is unnecessary and not at all appropriate.
I will share the (page 16) excerpt that made me DNF this book. The setup is that Valory, who is a known kleptomaniac, is riding in the back of the police car driven by her mom's boyfriend (Burke) after another incident where she stole something, was accused, but had someone else willing to take the fall for it.
Excerpt:
"Would you trust me if..." she paused, drawing out the moment.
"If what?"
She made her voice cool and casual. "If, say, your gold chain was missing..."
Burke's hand flew to his neck and his jaw dropped. "How did you---"
She enjoyed his shock for a solid moment before telling him the truth. "Don't worry. It's at home. I found it by the bathroom sink this morning after breakfast." She folded her arms and raised her eyebrows at the word breakfast because she wasn't born yesterday.
He rubbed his neck and stammered. "W-we were going to tell you. Things have progressed..."
She tapped the door. "Can you open the door now?"
"I mean, your mother and I have been getting more--"
"I get it, okay? I'm not six years old. Door, please!"
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Sneaks is a twisty mystery solved by an unlikely pair of loveable amateur sleuths. Rook, a sheltered musical prodigy, couldn’t be more different from Valorie, who’s the troublemaking daughter of his family’s cleaning woman. But their strengths complement each other when they team up to solve the mystery of a piano-playing child hidden in an apartment across the street from Rook’s home. Watching from the balcony, Rook and Valorie are alarmed by what they see—a strange woman who goes out to buy pizza at the exact same time each day, a child’s simple piano tunes played only while the woman is gone, a discarded doll whose head has been ripped off. In scenes reminiscent of Alfred Hitchcock’s Rear Window, Rook and Valory try to alert their elders, but no one believes them, and they’re left to investigate on their own. In doing so, they discover important things about themselves, their families, and the assumptions they’ve made. This tightly plotted mystery keeps the reader guessing to the very end. It’s a very fun, enjoyable read!
I received an Advanced Review Copy from Edelweiss, and this is my honest review.
I received an Advanced Review Copy from Edelweiss, and this is my honest review.
August 5, 2026
This is an odd one. If has the insistence of being a more serious thriller when two kids team up to investigate what they think is a kind of kidnapping situation at a nearby apartment while seemingly coming off as a goofy middle grade romp told in two perspectives: Valory, a kleptomaniac whose "Mumfrey" is dating a cop and cleans houses which is why she ended up meeting Rook, the son of the wealthy family who lives in the fancy house that Mumfrey (and today Valory) is cleaning. Rook is a pianist who doesn't leave the house and is homeschooled. This thread of the story also goes down an odd path as it's revealed that he may be agoraphobic.
Rook and Valory begin to believe that a woman at a neighboring apartment that is run by Rook's mother leaves at specific times and returns with (usually) a pizza because she's keeping a kid locked away inside- because when the woman leaves- they hear a piano playing. They decide to investigate but things never go according to plan and there's some tit-for-tat between the tenant and Rook's mom before the reveal at the end about just what is going on.
I can't figure out the tone for the life of me.
Rook and Valory begin to believe that a woman at a neighboring apartment that is run by Rook's mother leaves at specific times and returns with (usually) a pizza because she's keeping a kid locked away inside- because when the woman leaves- they hear a piano playing. They decide to investigate but things never go according to plan and there's some tit-for-tat between the tenant and Rook's mom before the reveal at the end about just what is going on.
I can't figure out the tone for the life of me.
August 8, 2026
RECOMMEND WITH CAUTION
"Sneaks" had a lot going for it; great setting (Boston), fun premise (a mysterious neighbor) and some cute characters (Rook) but that's it. Vaylerie is inconsiderate, talks back to adults, is snarky and overall not very kind. She is a kleptomaniac and although I didn't have a problem with it per se as her character grows, I didn't like how the adults around her "helped" her or her attitude toward them. Rook has agoraphobia, which again wasn't too much of a problem except that with the intensity of two issues with the main characters made it a little much. I thought the ending of the mystery was clever but once again, a "mental illness" was part of the issue and it became preachy. (Also, Mrs. Smith tried to kill Rook and then all of the sudden she was a nice lady?? I didn't buy it).
Warnings:
Language: The Lord's name is taken in vain two times.
LGBTQ content: none
Violence: a child is missing, presumably kidnapped. Mrs. Smith presses a coat rack over Rook's throat and smiles while he struggles.
Magic: none
Sexual content: none
"Sneaks" had a lot going for it; great setting (Boston), fun premise (a mysterious neighbor) and some cute characters (Rook) but that's it. Vaylerie is inconsiderate, talks back to adults, is snarky and overall not very kind. She is a kleptomaniac and although I didn't have a problem with it per se as her character grows, I didn't like how the adults around her "helped" her or her attitude toward them. Rook has agoraphobia, which again wasn't too much of a problem except that with the intensity of two issues with the main characters made it a little much. I thought the ending of the mystery was clever but once again, a "mental illness" was part of the issue and it became preachy. (Also, Mrs. Smith tried to kill Rook and then all of the sudden she was a nice lady?? I didn't buy it).
Warnings:
Language: The Lord's name is taken in vain two times.
LGBTQ content: none
Violence: a child is missing, presumably kidnapped. Mrs. Smith presses a coat rack over Rook's throat and smiles while he struggles.
Magic: none
Sexual content: none
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Rating: 10/10
Sneaks exceeded all the expectations I had for it. Having immersed myself in middle grade mysteries lately, Sneaks was a knock-out, in terms of character development, depth, tension and suspense, and writing (and, quite frankly, editing) quality. A brilliantly executed contemporary coming-of-age novel that speaks to universal realities of growing up through the language of mystery, Sneaks would make a fantastic unit study or library/school book club pick. The dynamics of friendships, family, and navigating independence while staying between the lines are all elements flawlessly weaved into Sneaks. Also, while I am not always a fan of alternating POVs, in this case, the structure of Sneaks really showcased what alternating close third limited perspective can do to elevate the reader experience (esp. "and that boy with the dog" from Valory's POV, haha!). Fantastic read!
Thank you to Edelweiss+ and Holiday House for an Advanced Reader Copy!
Sneaks exceeded all the expectations I had for it. Having immersed myself in middle grade mysteries lately, Sneaks was a knock-out, in terms of character development, depth, tension and suspense, and writing (and, quite frankly, editing) quality. A brilliantly executed contemporary coming-of-age novel that speaks to universal realities of growing up through the language of mystery, Sneaks would make a fantastic unit study or library/school book club pick. The dynamics of friendships, family, and navigating independence while staying between the lines are all elements flawlessly weaved into Sneaks. Also, while I am not always a fan of alternating POVs, in this case, the structure of Sneaks really showcased what alternating close third limited perspective can do to elevate the reader experience (esp. "and that boy with the dog" from Valory's POV, haha!). Fantastic read!
Thank you to Edelweiss+ and Holiday House for an Advanced Reader Copy!
August 5, 2026
Sneaks had a solid story with likable main characters. I really enjoyed Valery and Rook because they were so different from each other, and their relationship was one of my favorite parts of the book. The ending was sweet, meaningful, and left the story on a satisfying note.
For me, though, the book felt much longer than it needed to be. It wasn’t boring, but the pacing was slow, and there were quite a few moments where I found myself hoping to get to the end. Some scenes and details felt like they were included more to add length than to move the story forward.
Overall, I enjoyed the story and I’m glad I read it. I can definitely see younger readers, or anyone who enjoys a slower-paced mistery , connecting with it more than I did.
For me, though, the book felt much longer than it needed to be. It wasn’t boring, but the pacing was slow, and there were quite a few moments where I found myself hoping to get to the end. Some scenes and details felt like they were included more to add length than to move the story forward.
Overall, I enjoyed the story and I’m glad I read it. I can definitely see younger readers, or anyone who enjoys a slower-paced mistery , connecting with it more than I did.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Sneaks is an exciting middle grade mystery book about Rook, a boy who is a homeschooled piano prodigy and Valory, a girl who has been getting into too much trouble lately. They meet because Valory's mom cleans Rook's house. Together they discover a mystery in the apartment across from Rook's house. There is a secret girl in there and maybe she was kidnapped! Sneaking around they think they have everything figured out, but things are not as they seem. The book is full of good messages about love, friendship, and speaking up. It is squeaky clean and perfect for older elementary on up.
I received a free advance reader copy. All opinions are my own.
I received a free advance reader copy. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
A double-dose of mystery and heart!
I was hooked from the very first page of this clever Middle Grade debut. The dual narrative is masterfully handled. It’s rare to find a story where you feel so equally invested in both leads. Each character brings a unique "underdog energy" that makes you want to cheer (and sleuth) right alongside them. The mystery is tightly plotted, and the shenanigans are as fun as they are heartfelt. A perfect pick for young readers who love a good puzzle and characters with real depth. Highly recommended!
I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
I was hooked from the very first page of this clever Middle Grade debut. The dual narrative is masterfully handled. It’s rare to find a story where you feel so equally invested in both leads. Each character brings a unique "underdog energy" that makes you want to cheer (and sleuth) right alongside them. The mystery is tightly plotted, and the shenanigans are as fun as they are heartfelt. A perfect pick for young readers who love a good puzzle and characters with real depth. Highly recommended!
I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 17, 2026
A different read for the younger set - when children do wrong, there's usually more of a fuss, but these kids' psychological states make it clear their actions are a result. There's some dry humor and characters who aren't afraid to be unpleasant. Children will be relieved to read about what happens when you do wrong or are tempted to, it's not the end of the world. The plot is interesting enough but it's the uniquely troubled protagonists who stick with you.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A street-smart, sticky-fingered Valory teams up with piano-prodigy, agoraphobic Rook to solve the mystery of the empty apartment across the alley which is suddenly filled with mysterious music and eerie doll parts.
It's Only Murders in the Building for tweens about how friendship can bring out the best parts of you.
It's Only Murders in the Building for tweens about how friendship can bring out the best parts of you.
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