Bitter Enemies

Friday Barnes #7

by R.A. Spratt

Headmasters behaving badly!


When four former headmasters arrive at Highcrest Academy to take part in the school's anniversary celebrations, the students are warned to be on their best behaviour.

Unfortunately, no one told the headmasters to stay out of mischief too! Which means Friday Barnes soon has a case to solve. But unravelling the truth isn't easy when the whole school is being forced to eat paleo because the cook is on a diet; her best friend's brother won't stop blubbering about the terrible boat accident he may or may not have caused; and Friday is being trailed by a mysterious admirer - or is it a stalker?

Can Friday find the facts among the mayhem? She'd better. The fate of Highcrest depends on it!

Genres: Mystery, Middle Grade, Childrens, Contemporary, Crime, Mystery Thriller, Young Adult

162 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 31, 2017

About the author

R.A. Spratt is an award-winning author and television writer. She lives in Bowral, Australia with her husband and two daughters.

Reviews

[Schizanthus Nerd · Rating 4 out of 5]

When we last saw Friday, she’d just survived four weeks at school camp. Waiting for her at Highcrest Academy were two of her siblings, Quasar and Orion. We’d previously heard about her four older siblings (the other two are called Quantum and Halley) but this is the first time we’ve met any of them.

The school year has just begun and Melanie and Ian are not looking forward to beginning Year 8 without Friday, who’s been studying in Switzerland at the best school in the world.

This year is the sesquicentennial (that’s the 150th anniversary, for all of you who aren’t Friday Barnes) of the school’s founder’s birth. In addition to the new meditation room that’s being constructed and the refurbishment of the exercise pool for the polo ponies, the previous Headmasters have been invited back to Highcrest Academy. They will be guest teaching for four weeks. As such, everyone is to be on their best behaviour.

‘There will be no mysteries!’ yelled the Headmaster. ‘I forbid it!’

While I always enjoy stories where kids go to camp, I missed the interaction with Highcrest Academy’s teachers in the previous book. I appreciated Mrs Cannon, the English teacher, quickly reminding me why I love her.

‘I never teach you anything because I’m lazy, and because I think it’s far better for you to figure it all out on your own. What’s the point in me telling you when you could learn for yourself?’

Not surprisingly, Friday quickly makes an impression with the four previous Headmasters, although it’s not a great one. There’s also mysteries to solve, including who is breaking into the school.

‘What on earth is she doing?’ asked Colonel Hallett.
‘Investigating,’ said the Headmaster. ‘Just wait, she’ll sniff something next.’

I was surprised that Ian didn’t know that Friday was returning to school, especially considering the fact that his mother is now married to Friday’s Uncle Bernie and he’s just spent the school holidays with them. Uncle Bernie would definitely have been kept in the loop. I’m finding it sadder and sadder that the rest of Friday’s family are so neglectful.

Friday found planets comforting, because unlike most of the people in her life, planets could be relied on to turn up at precise locations at predictable intervals.

At one point Melanie asks Ian if the Headmaster is asking a rhetorical question. Usually she’s the one identifying these for Friday so it’s inconsistent for her to be asking, unless she’s missing Friday so much at this point that she’s lost her ability to pick up on social nuances. Thankfully later in the book Melanie’s rhetorical question detection is back to normal.

Blog - https://schizanthusnerd.com

[Jacob Proffitt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Seventh in the series. You're probably fine as long as you've read enough to know the emotional byplay among the main characters (Melly, Ian, and Friday).

This was pretty good and felt more compelling than the immediate previous. The overarching mystery did a good job of being intriguing and the plot moves along sharply. So I was engaged and enjoyed reading it.

It's not Spratt's best work, but I felt much more sanguine of giving it four stars for the fun events.

[seraphine · Rating 5 out of 5]

i couldn’t resist and read it all 😭 loving this series so far

[Amita · Rating 3 out of 5]

the vibes of this one were SO WEIRD. the beginning felt like it was written in such a different style than normal. I'm too lazy to look it up but I'm wondering if there was a large time gap between the sixth book and this one because that would check out.

spoilers ig but melanie got a boyfriend at the end of this which was the most out of character thing that's happened in this entire series. shock value I suppose. passable for now especially because she STILL acts the most aroace ever even when she has the bf lolll but it better be a jokey joke and he's gone in the next book or that's it. he's lame bruh

the series is getting a little long and you can tell. we will see how much longer I last

anyway melanie ian dynamic >>>>>

[Debbie Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Friday and her friends. Melanie makes me laugh outloud. If you want to stay young at heart and read something that cheers you up - this is the series to do it.

[Cruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Author: R.A. Spratt
First Published: 2017
Length: 254 pages

Book 7 and another comfortable read. Fun and exciting for the young reader.

Friday is getting older (13 now, and in year 8) and is starting to understand boy-girl feelings. She is not as disengaged from her peers as she was at the start of the series and has become more “normal” - or perhaps we have learnt to understand her differences.

In previous books, Friday solved multiple minor mysteries and one major. In Bitter Enemies it’s really just the one. This does make a more cohesive story and lends itself to the older reader with a longer attention span - reasonable given the reader ages along with the protagonist - but I miss the novelty and teaching moments Spratt was able to include previously.

Maybe that’s what I really need to accept. Spratt has adjusted the style of the book; it’s less challenging with fewer references to literature and science. The books are easier. The reader doesn’t get pushed to learn more, to look things up, to read other things.

And that makes me a little sad.

It’s still a fun read, and remains a recommended read.

Friday Barnes:
Book 1 Girl Detective
Book 2 Under Suspicion
Book 3 Big Trouble
Book 4 No Rules
Book 5 The Plot Thickens
Book 6 Danger Ahead
Book 7 Bitter Enemies
Book 8 Never Fear (to be released 2018?)

Age:
Read aloud - 7+
Read yourself - 9+

References:
R.A.Spratt website: http://raspratt.com/tag/friday-barnes/

(ISBN 9780143784197)

-CR-

[Nina Kayes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bitter Enemies: Friday Barnes 7 is a great addition to the beloved series by R.A. Spratt, showcasing the intelligence of the character, Friday Barnes. In this book, readers are once again treated to Friday's sharp detective skills and her knack for uncovering mysteries of the everyday chaos at Highcrest Academy.

This is an amazing book. Friday find herself navigating the treacherous waters of school drama, she also confronts challenges that test not only her brain but also her courage and determination. The story goes into themes of loyalty, determination, and friendship, and a little bit of romance.

What sets Bitter Enemies apart is Spratt's ability to blend humour with genuine emotion, creating a narrative that resonates with readers of all ages. From witty banter to heartfelt moments of introspection, the characters leap off the page with vibrant personalities and relatable struggles. Friday Barnes herself remains a great character, challenging other characters and inspiring readers to embrace their own quirks and talents.

Furthermore, Spratt's skilful meaning and clever plotting ensure that the story maintains a brisk pace, keeping readers eagerly turning pages until the final, satisfying conclusion. Whether you're a longtime fan of the series or new to Friday Barnes's adventures (in witch read the first one first), Bitter Enemies is sure to delight and captivate audiences with its blend of mystery, humour, and heart.

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I always enjoy this series, but I do think the author has lost a bit of consistency in her characters. For example, Melanie usually is the one who realizes a question is rhetorical, it’s Friday who needs the reminder. Also, what kind of mystery is the new boy, who hacked into the system and gave himself a fake roommate? It sort of glossed over him...

Friday’s family has also undergone a negative change. They are criminally neglectful, but it has never been implied that they are actually cruel. Nor are they capable of logical every day plans. It seems unlikely that they would put together any plan to use Friday as an anchor baby for citizenship...and if there are people that want her mom to stay in Switzerland, wouldn’t they pull strings to get her citizenship? It’s never clear why the whole family moved there anyway...and Friday’s gorgeous siblings don’t really fit the story either.

Frankly, I don’t see why Friday and Ian don’t categorically refuse to do what their families want, because it never turns out well...

[Fatima · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gosh I love this so much. Another brilliant mystery. Actually kinda darker than previous ones. Some serious twists. I love the Abotomey storyline, very funny, great affect on the story. Melanie & The Headmaster continue to make me laugh out loud. Ian & Friday are just so great, and adorable. And I’m so sad there’s only one more of their stories to read boohoo. The ending of this book made me sad and mad and I’m worried about the final book, and where all the characters are going to end up. But I’m also really looking forward to it!

[Panda Incognito · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book isn't one of my favorites in the series, but it was a step up from the last installment. I enjoyed the return to the school setting, and the multi-layered mysteries were unusual, entertaining, and different from previous books. The first third of the book was full of random comma splices and desperately needed an editor, but even though that was strange, the regular writing quality resumes partway through the book, and it's a fun read for kids and adults.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Volume 7 picks up after Friday returns to the academy. Several former headmasters also arrive to take part in the major celebration. Mysteries surface everywhere and Friday figures them all out by the end of the story. She remains her same quirky self. Melanie shows moments of brilliance all while sleeping life away. A new character adds interest to the relationship mix as a rival for Ian.
Humor fills the book.

[Adelaide Van Klaveren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book series! I read them over the summer holidays years ago, since my sister owned the first 8 books, and ever since I've read them over and over again. I fell in love with Friday's personality and nerdy comments, let alone how sisterly and funny Melanie seems, and don't get me started on Ian. It's written well with small details that tie together the whole mystery, making it seem well thought out. Defiantly my favorite book series!

[Anna ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a quick and enjoyable book. The book starts with Ian and Melanie being terribly sad about their friends departure, Friday Barnes. Immediately, Friday makes a dramatic return and we are whisked away in the world of High-crest college. Definitely recommend the series for a quick humorous read.

[The Book Squirrel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series is awesome. Recommended especially for girls ages 8+. I love how literal Friday is in her observations, how matter-of-fact but also vulnerable, and how her friends understand her and love her for who she is.

[Sean Harding · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spratt's Jacks #20
Friday Barnes #7
Seventh outing for Friday and equally as good, a great yarn which kept you engaged to the dramatic conclusion!
What is next for Friday Barnes - one suspects major changes may be afoot!

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent instalment of this series, and very nicely paced! Enjoyed this as much as the first Friday Barnes book, and some decent twists and turns. Look forward to the next book!

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absoulute oh loved this book, I couldn’t put it down!! I never would have guessed that all four headmasters were working together. Another great book from this series!!

[Livvie · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good really loved this book

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

All I can do is a happy sigh and then give a frustrated sigh because my library does not have the final book. I need the final book! But it is the final book. Sadness.

[Celine Leaper · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOOHOO!!! GO FRIANNNNNNNNNNNNN

[elle · Rating 4 out of 5]

friday and ian getting along and caring about each other (there was a hug!) is very disconcerting

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

So well written

[Phøenix13 (Inactive) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent as always

[emma 🤦😓 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how the first book is like “ohohoho there’s been a petty pickpocketer amongst the students, better catch them!” and now we’re dealing with actual murderers. This series goes insanely hard

[Olivia · Rating 4 out of 5]

The ending is my favourite must read

[Penelope Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

even if you try really hard, you can't stop reading this!

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really good book that you can’t put down! It’s full of mysteries and adventure. -Abby, age 7

[Verity · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wacky, fast paced and laugh out loud funny, I really enjoyed this :D

[Cm · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book more interesting than the last few, which I thought to have become more directed towards keeping readers rather than pushing the story forwards. I didn't find it as good as the first few books, but still worth the read.

[mack · Rating 4 out of 5]

Friday Barnes: Bitter Enemies was okay. That is as much as I can say for it. It was...fun, yes, shoving 4 former headmasters in one school. It was...funny, yes, shoving 4 former headmasters in one school. But that is all I can say for it. Unlike some of the other Friday Barnes books, it wasn’t totally amazing, it was just average. For me, it was a bit of a disappointment due to it being after the absolutely fantastic and brilliant Danger Ahead. The plot was not the best in the world, and neither was the cover or chapter 17, but the Headmaster’s heart attack was pretty clever, and so were various other punchlines.

Poor Friday gets shoved in another love triangle again. Luckily, it doesn’t take up as much of the plot as the Friday - Ian - Chris one did, so it was good. And Friday wasn’t lovesick over it or anything and focused on the mystery at hand. Luckily, the love triangle is solved when Melanie gets Harrison, so that was fine by me. It was an interesting pairing, especially considering Harrison was a stalker, but either than that, I was okay with the relationship. In my opinion, in this book Ian was in love with Friday, but Friday didn’t like him that way back.

As for solving the mystery, you can’t really do it. I guess you can because they looked through Dr Wallace’s laundry and saw the gym clothes, but even Friday only found out by hitching a ride.
The cliffhanger, however, was good leading into the next, and last, book. The fact alone that the Headmaster has retired was shocking, but being replaced by Dr Belcredi added to the vast amount of shock and questions. But Friday moving up to Year 12? Oh no, the next book was going to be interesting.