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The Cambridge Files #1
Disruption
At fourteen, Matt Cambridge has executed so many pranks - the latest nearly destroying his school - that his parents are out of discipline options. So his father pulls a few questionable strings to get his son into Camp Friendship: A camp that promises to strengthen the moral compass of today's youth. With a name like Camp Friendship Matt imagines three punishing weeks of daisy chains and Kumbayas.
Within minutes of arriving at the camp, however, Matt's nearly killed--twice. It doesn't take long for him to realize there's more to this picture-perfect place than meets the eye. What sort of summer camp has programs in forging passports? Why do they have endless fight training, and weapons drills, and what is with the hidden rooms? Matt wonders if his parents realize they've enrolled him in what seems to be some kind of freakish, elite spy school.
What Matt doesn't yet know - and is soon to find out - is that Camp Friendship's ultimate purpose is far more sinister than he could possibly have imagined. With each dot he connects, he begins to understand that in the end he'll be left with two choices: pull the prank of a lifetime to escape this place...or die trying.
Within minutes of arriving at the camp, however, Matt's nearly killed--twice. It doesn't take long for him to realize there's more to this picture-perfect place than meets the eye. What sort of summer camp has programs in forging passports? Why do they have endless fight training, and weapons drills, and what is with the hidden rooms? Matt wonders if his parents realize they've enrolled him in what seems to be some kind of freakish, elite spy school.
What Matt doesn't yet know - and is soon to find out - is that Camp Friendship's ultimate purpose is far more sinister than he could possibly have imagined. With each dot he connects, he begins to understand that in the end he'll be left with two choices: pull the prank of a lifetime to escape this place...or die trying.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2014
47 people are currently reading
722 people want to read
About the author
Steven Whibley
14 books201 followersSteve believes in pixies and fairy dust, and the healing power of unicorns. When he’s not writing epic tales of horned beasties, he’s working as a look-a-like for Brad Pitt, Ryan Reynolds, Zac Efron, and Seal. He spends his free time training hairless mole rats to be service animals for the colorblind, and dreams of one day inventing a Thanksgiving dish that will rival the infamous turducken.
Steve also believes most readers do not read author biographies. (but just in case, he’ll do a real one once his website is fully updated :) )
www.stevenwhibley.com
Steve also believes most readers do not read author biographies. (but just in case, he’ll do a real one once his website is fully updated :) )
www.stevenwhibley.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
January 14, 2016
2.5 stars. It was highly implausible and a bit silly, and Matt definitely should have died at least a few times because of all that was going on around him—he survived and "thrived" more out of sheer luck and coincidences than anything else. Still, it was a fun read.
July 29, 2014
When Matt and his friend pulled a prank that went wrong in school, his father decided to send him to an elite camp called Camp Friendship. His dad had to pull some strings to get Matt into this camp and Matt isnt happy. To him a camp like this is where nerds go but he has no choice.
When he gets to the bus his first impression is of happy campers but the minute they are on the bus and away from prying eyes, things change. Matt is nearly beaten up by one camper. When they arrive at camp, Matt is nearly killed and the activities are all weird. Forging passports, weapon training, bombs, what kind of camp is this?
He decides from hints and the activities, that the camp is a CIA spy training camp. He is thrilled to be part of the camp and does his best to excel. Bit all is not what it seems and his "friends" may not be who they say. Can Matt survive long enough to escape the camp or will everything blow up in his face?
I went into this with no idea what it was about because I didn't read the blurb and I'm glad to say that I really enjoyed it.
I liked Matt. He is a prankster and wants to pull the mother of all pranks in school, unfortunately for him it goes wrong and he is sent to the camp. I liked the fact that Matt seems like a typical teenage boy. At the start of camp he has no idea what kind of camp he is in and thinks of everything from soccer camp to one where they sit around and make bracelets, then when he figures out its a spy camp, he thinks its extremely cool! He bumbles along trying to look like he knows what he is doing but he has no clue. It was fun to read.
Steven Whibley has created a fun, mysterious and intriguing read. At times laugh out loud and at other times very tense but all the time enjoyable. Its an extremely easy read and one I flew through. The author has captured the voice of teenage boys perfectly. I now my boys would love this and its one Ill get them for their shelves. I cant wait for more from these characters and Im looking forward to book 2.
When he gets to the bus his first impression is of happy campers but the minute they are on the bus and away from prying eyes, things change. Matt is nearly beaten up by one camper. When they arrive at camp, Matt is nearly killed and the activities are all weird. Forging passports, weapon training, bombs, what kind of camp is this?
He decides from hints and the activities, that the camp is a CIA spy training camp. He is thrilled to be part of the camp and does his best to excel. Bit all is not what it seems and his "friends" may not be who they say. Can Matt survive long enough to escape the camp or will everything blow up in his face?
I went into this with no idea what it was about because I didn't read the blurb and I'm glad to say that I really enjoyed it.
I liked Matt. He is a prankster and wants to pull the mother of all pranks in school, unfortunately for him it goes wrong and he is sent to the camp. I liked the fact that Matt seems like a typical teenage boy. At the start of camp he has no idea what kind of camp he is in and thinks of everything from soccer camp to one where they sit around and make bracelets, then when he figures out its a spy camp, he thinks its extremely cool! He bumbles along trying to look like he knows what he is doing but he has no clue. It was fun to read.
Steven Whibley has created a fun, mysterious and intriguing read. At times laugh out loud and at other times very tense but all the time enjoyable. Its an extremely easy read and one I flew through. The author has captured the voice of teenage boys perfectly. I now my boys would love this and its one Ill get them for their shelves. I cant wait for more from these characters and Im looking forward to book 2.
May 6, 2014
This is one of the best younger teen spy stories I have ever read. It crackles along at a great pace. Chapters 10 and 36 were particularly gripping for me, but the whole story was superbly written and flowed amazingly well.
Easily on par with the YA work of Chris Ryan, Eoin Colfer or Anthony Horowitz, joining the annals of Mark A Cooper and Thomas E Sniegoski in that niche, Whibley is setting up a most wonderful, thrilling series that any teen worth his age in action points would do well to jump on before it shoots off on to the big screen as an epic action movie.
Easily on par with the YA work of Chris Ryan, Eoin Colfer or Anthony Horowitz, joining the annals of Mark A Cooper and Thomas E Sniegoski in that niche, Whibley is setting up a most wonderful, thrilling series that any teen worth his age in action points would do well to jump on before it shoots off on to the big screen as an epic action movie.
gave-up
February 18, 2015The cover blurbs talk about how the teen readers couldn't put it down. I could and did.
December 28, 2016
After a prank gone awry at his middle school, days before summer break, Matt is sent to "Camp Friendship," where his dad hopes that his son will come back with his attitude straightened out. But this summer camp comes with strings, since Matt is not even supposed to be there.
With instructions to blend in, Matt is left on his own for three of the most life-changing weeks he will ever know. He is flying completely under the radar by being center-focus. Hiding in plain sight. Sometimes, the best defense is a great offense.
Matt soon discovers that this camp with the laughably ironic name is not all it appears. Matt may have landed himself into a situation he cannot hope to make it out of—Alive. Just WHAT has his dad signed him up for? And how much does he really know about this camp that seems to be pretty well-known in his place of business?
Matt will face trials he never could have dreamed of, pull off pranks he never would have imagined seeing through, and he will learn a skill set that just might help him survive the epic clusterfuck that he has been unwittingly thrust into. And who knows...He may just reign victorious over this hellhole that they call "Camp Friendship."
It's so frustrating being in the mind of a character who literally DOESN'T HAVE A SINGLE FREAKING CLUE. But we really got to piece every bit of this complex puzzle together right alongside Matt, which kept me thoroughly captivated throughout this entire story. There was never a dull moment, and I really felt for the poor boy who bumbled along cluelessly, and I laughed to no end that this same ignorance brought him so far in every challenge thrown his way. This kid is the single luckiest SOB I've EVER gotten to read about and follow along with. He is LEGENDARY! Ha!
I'm still confused about some things that happened near the end (which I won't go into), and the dad's role in all this mess. Is he really as innocent as Matt thinks him to be? The jury's out on that one, and if he is...Well then that just leaves me with more questions. We'll see how book two goes before making any judgments. And I am SO EXCITED for what the next book will have in store for our spy-hero as he undertakes a mission of epic proportions. The Agency is about to get a disruption in the system that they never could have seen coming.
With instructions to blend in, Matt is left on his own for three of the most life-changing weeks he will ever know. He is flying completely under the radar by being center-focus. Hiding in plain sight. Sometimes, the best defense is a great offense.
Matt soon discovers that this camp with the laughably ironic name is not all it appears. Matt may have landed himself into a situation he cannot hope to make it out of—Alive. Just WHAT has his dad signed him up for? And how much does he really know about this camp that seems to be pretty well-known in his place of business?
Matt will face trials he never could have dreamed of, pull off pranks he never would have imagined seeing through, and he will learn a skill set that just might help him survive the epic clusterfuck that he has been unwittingly thrust into. And who knows...He may just reign victorious over this hellhole that they call "Camp Friendship."
It's so frustrating being in the mind of a character who literally DOESN'T HAVE A SINGLE FREAKING CLUE. But we really got to piece every bit of this complex puzzle together right alongside Matt, which kept me thoroughly captivated throughout this entire story. There was never a dull moment, and I really felt for the poor boy who bumbled along cluelessly, and I laughed to no end that this same ignorance brought him so far in every challenge thrown his way. This kid is the single luckiest SOB I've EVER gotten to read about and follow along with. He is LEGENDARY! Ha!
I'm still confused about some things that happened near the end (which I won't go into), and the dad's role in all this mess. Is he really as innocent as Matt thinks him to be? The jury's out on that one, and if he is...Well then that just leaves me with more questions. We'll see how book two goes before making any judgments. And I am SO EXCITED for what the next book will have in store for our spy-hero as he undertakes a mission of epic proportions. The Agency is about to get a disruption in the system that they never could have seen coming.
May 27, 2015
Disruption is that amazing YA action/adventure book that you have been looking for ever since you finished the Alex Rider series. Action packed and as funny as a cabin full of psychopathic teens can ever be, this book will undoubtedly hold the attention of even the most reluctant of readers. It all begins when Matt's bad behavior gets him sent to Camp Friendship as punishment. After nearly being blown up on the soccer field within hours of arrival, Matt quickly realizes that the summer camp is a cover for a teen spy training camp, probably run by the CIA. Out of his depth, but earnestly hoping to gain some cool spy knowledge from his experience, Matt must rely on his own incredible luck and his misfit group of teammates to beat the system that he never should have been part of. Matt is a great narrative voice. He starts off like a jerky eighth grader, but he quickly has to mature to acclimate to this new setting. He actually is a moral compass in the extreme world of Camp Friendship, and this seems to be what allows the best parts of him to balance out the juvenile glee he gets from causing mayhem. I initially thought this book was going to skew too young for my high school crowd, but it is absolutely something that my high school guys are going to adore. Fast paced and absolutely full of action, weapons, and a unique brand of camp activities, this book has little time for lulls or boredom. I'm so excited about the prospect of sharing this with my students, especially those who enjoy funny and high octane adventure like Au Revoir, Crazy European Chick or the Alex Rider books. I'm adding it to my classroom library wish list and recommending it to our high school librarian. Language and situations are appropriate for grades 7+, but readers young and old will find Disruption very engaging. I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 3, 2014
What the everliving fuck was that?
I'm just speechless.
I loved Matt from the start, the very first sentence of the book until the last and without a minute of doubt. Other than that, they weren't way too deep or anything, but considering that was how the book had to be, this is not something I'll count as something bad. Still, what we had was more than great.
Plot was excellent. One minute I knew shit going on, another I wasn't sure anymore. Though I did expect the explosion, I didn't think those three pieces of crap would be Chase's stuff and help him with the bomb. Also, that terrorrism and families part was way beyond unpredictable, my deal was totally sealed there. I mean, I didn't really buy the CIA camp thing, but this I didn't even think of. It was one of the best books I've read and is one of my favorites now for sure.
Also, what I almost forgot to mention is, the writing was great. I thought the total descriptions of people was too much, but apart from that, I don't remember getting bored or sick of the writing. Just because of this, I'm planning to read Glimpse and all. Just not right now, I need some time too cool down.
I'm just speechless.
I loved Matt from the start, the very first sentence of the book until the last and without a minute of doubt. Other than that, they weren't way too deep or anything, but considering that was how the book had to be, this is not something I'll count as something bad. Still, what we had was more than great.
Plot was excellent. One minute I knew shit going on, another I wasn't sure anymore. Though I did expect the explosion, I didn't think those three pieces of crap would be Chase's stuff and help him with the bomb. Also, that terrorrism and families part was way beyond unpredictable, my deal was totally sealed there. I mean, I didn't really buy the CIA camp thing, but this I didn't even think of. It was one of the best books I've read and is one of my favorites now for sure.
Also, what I almost forgot to mention is, the writing was great. I thought the total descriptions of people was too much, but apart from that, I don't remember getting bored or sick of the writing. Just because of this, I'm planning to read Glimpse and all. Just not right now, I need some time too cool down.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2019
Disruption:the Cambridge files book1
Wow! It's hard to put into words but I will give it a shot. The author has your. Mind thinking on one track only to blow your mind at the end superbly written hope the author will continue the saga and not leave the reader hanging
Wow! It's hard to put into words but I will give it a shot. The author has your. Mind thinking on one track only to blow your mind at the end superbly written hope the author will continue the saga and not leave the reader hanging
May 13, 2018
Great story
A really good read .The character's are portrayed with a great deal of intrigue and I am looking forward to the next book and more character' development
A really good read .The character's are portrayed with a great deal of intrigue and I am looking forward to the next book and more character' development
May 26, 2018
I think I am a little too old for this book? I thought that the story was grabbing but the characters were only alright. The mystery was not the worst I've read, but I just couldn't get into it.
There were two main issues I had with Disruption:
One: The Implausibility:
Personally, I found it a little too much of an Alex Rider wannabe. I mean, the CIA holding spy training camps? Well that isn't that unbelievable, I guess, except the part where the campers are children. Also, if these kids are meant to be "spies in training" how could they not realise that Matthew is lying about well, everything really? He isn't a very good liar, not in the slightest. Why is that only Rylee got suspicious? I would have been if I saw that he literally had no freaking clue what he was supposed to be doing and yet everyone else at the camp, including his teammates, were partially born and raised in these sorts of camps. Shouldn't they be able to tell if their Delta was a little suspicious - especially since he was meant to be the best of them?
Also, the last challenge was taking it too far. Did he seriously think that these people would be okay with setting off fireworks in a subway station? I agree with them that's just lame really.
Two: Matthew and His Lie:
I was completely frustrated that Matthew did not think to ask what the hell was going on? even once. He is thrown into this camp where the very first thing they ask you to do is run through a field bobby-trapped with land-mines - live ones that explode when you touch them. Does that not set some warning bells off in your head, especially after you have been injured and there are others, like Becca, walking around battered and on crutches? Shouldn't you be asking your teammates some questions like what sort of camp is this!? I have never been to camp myself (I don't think we even have them where I live anyway) but even I know that isn't a normal camp activity.
Also, how the heck did he get appointed Delta? How deep does his Dad's involvement in this shady Agency run; otherwise how the heck did he get in and all that stuff happen? Surely, these sorts of people don't make mistakes that enormous. Where are our answers?
Disruption was not up to the expectations I had set. I have to say that I am very disappointed. Maybe younger readers would appreciate this more? I am not sure, but I won't be hasty to recommend this regardless.
Review copy provided by the publisher for an honest review.
There were two main issues I had with Disruption:
One: The Implausibility:
Personally, I found it a little too much of an Alex Rider wannabe. I mean, the CIA holding spy training camps? Well that isn't that unbelievable, I guess, except the part where the campers are children. Also, if these kids are meant to be "spies in training" how could they not realise that Matthew is lying about well, everything really? He isn't a very good liar, not in the slightest. Why is that only Rylee got suspicious? I would have been if I saw that he literally had no freaking clue what he was supposed to be doing and yet everyone else at the camp, including his teammates, were partially born and raised in these sorts of camps. Shouldn't they be able to tell if their Delta was a little suspicious - especially since he was meant to be the best of them?
Also, the last challenge was taking it too far. Did he seriously think that these people would be okay with setting off fireworks in a subway station? I agree with them that's just lame really.
Two: Matthew and His Lie:
I was completely frustrated that Matthew did not think to ask what the hell was going on? even once. He is thrown into this camp where the very first thing they ask you to do is run through a field bobby-trapped with land-mines - live ones that explode when you touch them. Does that not set some warning bells off in your head, especially after you have been injured and there are others, like Becca, walking around battered and on crutches? Shouldn't you be asking your teammates some questions like what sort of camp is this!? I have never been to camp myself (I don't think we even have them where I live anyway) but even I know that isn't a normal camp activity.
Also, how the heck did he get appointed Delta? How deep does his Dad's involvement in this shady Agency run; otherwise how the heck did he get in and all that stuff happen? Surely, these sorts of people don't make mistakes that enormous. Where are our answers?
Disruption was not up to the expectations I had set. I have to say that I am very disappointed. Maybe younger readers would appreciate this more? I am not sure, but I won't be hasty to recommend this regardless.
Review copy provided by the publisher for an honest review.
November 14, 2019
Wow. This is one of the coolest books I've read this year. I mean, whoa. Hooked from the first page and the thought of putting it down for a single moment was painful. Where to even begin? The main character, Matt was such a believable and well crafted character. I loved his sense of humor, wit and sarcasm. There was so much action, excitement and mystery that fully kept my attention. One of the best things? No language. Highly recommend for readers who enjoy action, thrillers, and crime stories. It won't disappoint. Can't wait to get the second book in the series!!
September 18, 2017
I loved the main character, Matt. He was cocky and belligerent to start but then was thrown into this camp situation by his parents in an effort to help him change his ways. He was so out of his element. I liked how he didn't just suddenly fit in and become the hero. He got the snot beat out of him. The book kept me interested all the way through. Very enjoyable.
May 20, 2018
Interesting quick read
Interesting read not sure of the target audience is I suspect the young and naive who are still 10 feet tall and bullet proof like I was before I was drafted for the Viet Nam war before working for three letter entities and knowing the real pain of getting shot and beaten up. The book flowed well and was a real quick read.
Interesting read not sure of the target audience is I suspect the young and naive who are still 10 feet tall and bullet proof like I was before I was drafted for the Viet Nam war before working for three letter entities and knowing the real pain of getting shot and beaten up. The book flowed well and was a real quick read.
August 4, 2017
Plot twist
Did not see the end of the book ending like it did. Overall it was a pretty good book. Exciting.
Did not see the end of the book ending like it did. Overall it was a pretty good book. Exciting.
November 3, 2020
Holy Moly. I didn't expect that at all.
May 12, 2014
Disruption is about a boy named Matt who was sent to Camp Friendship by his father as a form of punishment. His dad supposedly pulled some strings in order for him to get there and warned him to stay low. Shortly after arriving, he had met two of the camp authorities and unwittingly helped them. He also got involved in a fight that made him the target of the camp's resident bully. After that, he was designated as one of the team leaders and completed dangerous tasks along with his weird and deadly set of team mates. So much for staying low!
This book reminded me of Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson series because of the camp setting. Let me tell you, I had never been in a camp before so I have no idea what a real camp looks like or how it operates. Therefore, whenever I hear about summer camps, I immediately thought of Percy Jackson which I know is weird but that's how it is for me.
Okay, so going back to Whibley's book. The main character Matt is really clever and a breath of fresh air from the books that I normally read. Before I started reading it, I was fully aware of who the target audience are, so in short, I knew what I was getting myself into!
The main character is not TSTL, which is always good! I like that Matt can adapt well to his environment without giving away his own secrets. And like I said before, he is really clever for a fourteen-year old kid which brings us to the issue that I had with this book...
The way the plot was written and how the characters responded to the situation that were given did not exactly give me the impression that they are around 13 to 15 year old kids. I find it hard to believe that a fourteen year old could pull off such an elaborate prank or even think about it. It could also be due to the fact that I am used to well-behaved teenagers, but still!
You might be thinking, "But Vanessa, it's just a story! A make-believe."
Um, NO. You see, I find it difficult to imagine a kid who just graduated from middle school firing a gun in a target range or almost getting blown to bits by a bomb. I'm all in for violence in a book or movie (this is coming from the girl who enjoys katana-wielding vampire and horrific zombie kills), so don't get me wrong. I mean, okay, so it's all make-believe and who doesn't like a fun action-packed read every once in a while? Right? But if I am a parent, it will bother me to have my middle-schooler read this, so proper guidance is a MUST.
Now, overcoming that age issue, I have to admit that I absolutely liked this book and would recommend it.
The team's ensemble is interesting! Rylee was the perfect partner-in-crime for Matt. I know this is really bad and stereotypical of me to say, but she is like the Hermione/Annabeth of the story. Afterall, she brought the whole team together and gave valued advices to Matt. Then there is the computer nerd - why do they always make them geeky and defenseless? I don't know. Can't they be at least hot for a change? *winks
Despite of my earlier aversion to the plot, I have to say, it is like ice cream on a hot, sweaty summer day. It can't be good for you all the time but you crave it like, well... like ice cream! Duh. And the writing? OH WOW. Steven Whimbley was able to capture my attention with his detailed and chair-gripping action scenes.
This book reminded me of Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson series because of the camp setting. Let me tell you, I had never been in a camp before so I have no idea what a real camp looks like or how it operates. Therefore, whenever I hear about summer camps, I immediately thought of Percy Jackson which I know is weird but that's how it is for me.
Okay, so going back to Whibley's book. The main character Matt is really clever and a breath of fresh air from the books that I normally read. Before I started reading it, I was fully aware of who the target audience are, so in short, I knew what I was getting myself into!
The main character is not TSTL, which is always good! I like that Matt can adapt well to his environment without giving away his own secrets. And like I said before, he is really clever for a fourteen-year old kid which brings us to the issue that I had with this book...
The way the plot was written and how the characters responded to the situation that were given did not exactly give me the impression that they are around 13 to 15 year old kids. I find it hard to believe that a fourteen year old could pull off such an elaborate prank or even think about it. It could also be due to the fact that I am used to well-behaved teenagers, but still!
You might be thinking, "But Vanessa, it's just a story! A make-believe."
Um, NO. You see, I find it difficult to imagine a kid who just graduated from middle school firing a gun in a target range or almost getting blown to bits by a bomb. I'm all in for violence in a book or movie (this is coming from the girl who enjoys katana-wielding vampire and horrific zombie kills), so don't get me wrong. I mean, okay, so it's all make-believe and who doesn't like a fun action-packed read every once in a while? Right? But if I am a parent, it will bother me to have my middle-schooler read this, so proper guidance is a MUST.
Now, overcoming that age issue, I have to admit that I absolutely liked this book and would recommend it.
The team's ensemble is interesting! Rylee was the perfect partner-in-crime for Matt. I know this is really bad and stereotypical of me to say, but she is like the Hermione/Annabeth of the story. Afterall, she brought the whole team together and gave valued advices to Matt. Then there is the computer nerd - why do they always make them geeky and defenseless? I don't know. Can't they be at least hot for a change? *winks
Despite of my earlier aversion to the plot, I have to say, it is like ice cream on a hot, sweaty summer day. It can't be good for you all the time but you crave it like, well... like ice cream! Duh. And the writing? OH WOW. Steven Whimbley was able to capture my attention with his detailed and chair-gripping action scenes.
June 27, 2014
When life gives you a son that is beyond naughty, it is your duty as a parent to make sure he never loses sight of the right path - the one on law's good side. But what happens when one mistake from you ends up putting said son in great danger?
Matthew Cambridge is not just a naughty teenager - according to those adults who know him, he's a moving menace! The prankster has always been somewhat of a deliquent, but now it's obvious he's gone a bit too far. When a prank that he and his best friend pull ends up nearly killing half of their school's population, Matt's father decides it's time for his son to learn some discipline. Matt's punishment is to spend a summer in a camp he's never heard of - or live with his aunt in Alaska, far away from his family and friends. One would think he would be able to at least live through a boring summer at a boring camp. But Matt's camp is anything but boring. In fact, it's downright dangerous. And after having come quite close to dying - several times - at his very first day, Matt realizes this isn't any ordinary camp. Now he wonders if he'll be able to survive this summer at all...
Ahem! Ok, ok, I've calmed down, I swear...
Has anyone ever watched any of the Cody Banks movies? I did when I was a teen, and the concept really excited me, even if the movies needed a bit more work to be a true success. Those who have watched them, are sure to connect some of the dots at the beginning of Disruption, concerning the signs that Matt seems to notice around him when he first enters Camp Friendship. And this... is the beauty of it all. Because nothing is as it seems in this book. Mr. Whibley keeps us guessing throughout the whole story, even when we think we have it all figured out. Just like Matt, we take the journey of trying to see what is truly going on, and just when we think we know, BAM! Another clue makes us lose sight and then we're back to square one!
I could go on and on about all the things I absolutely loved in the book - not that there was anything I didn't like - but I don't think there's a single part I could mention and NOT give you a spoiler - and believe me, the true magic of this book is reading it without knowing anything! Each line is like a major sign or something, it's truly the work of a genius!
There is, though, something I can share that won't give anything away. And that is the fact that Steven Whibley has a talented mind and hand - I do recall praying to marry either of those two in one of my rants of how much I was in love with the book, hahaha! The suspense is killing the reader, but in a sweet way that has us begging for more. The characters are all unique - compared to each other - and equally dangerous, funny, and loveable! The dialogues are sure to please and bring a smile to one's face, but the fun doesn't stop there! Because the whole story is told from Matt's POV, so we get to see every description, every scene, through his eyes and thoughts - and the kid is like the personification of cynical sarcasm!
Word of advice? Read it! As soon as possible! You won't know what you've been missing all this time until you've started Matt's story!
***I was given an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinion stated in this review is solely mine, and no compensation was given or taken to alter it.***
You can find this and other reviews at: http://cupcakesandpopcorn.wordpress.com/
Matthew Cambridge is not just a naughty teenager - according to those adults who know him, he's a moving menace! The prankster has always been somewhat of a deliquent, but now it's obvious he's gone a bit too far. When a prank that he and his best friend pull ends up nearly killing half of their school's population, Matt's father decides it's time for his son to learn some discipline. Matt's punishment is to spend a summer in a camp he's never heard of - or live with his aunt in Alaska, far away from his family and friends. One would think he would be able to at least live through a boring summer at a boring camp. But Matt's camp is anything but boring. In fact, it's downright dangerous. And after having come quite close to dying - several times - at his very first day, Matt realizes this isn't any ordinary camp. Now he wonders if he'll be able to survive this summer at all...
Ahem! Ok, ok, I've calmed down, I swear...
Has anyone ever watched any of the Cody Banks movies? I did when I was a teen, and the concept really excited me, even if the movies needed a bit more work to be a true success. Those who have watched them, are sure to connect some of the dots at the beginning of Disruption, concerning the signs that Matt seems to notice around him when he first enters Camp Friendship. And this... is the beauty of it all. Because nothing is as it seems in this book. Mr. Whibley keeps us guessing throughout the whole story, even when we think we have it all figured out. Just like Matt, we take the journey of trying to see what is truly going on, and just when we think we know, BAM! Another clue makes us lose sight and then we're back to square one!
I could go on and on about all the things I absolutely loved in the book - not that there was anything I didn't like - but I don't think there's a single part I could mention and NOT give you a spoiler - and believe me, the true magic of this book is reading it without knowing anything! Each line is like a major sign or something, it's truly the work of a genius!
There is, though, something I can share that won't give anything away. And that is the fact that Steven Whibley has a talented mind and hand - I do recall praying to marry either of those two in one of my rants of how much I was in love with the book, hahaha! The suspense is killing the reader, but in a sweet way that has us begging for more. The characters are all unique - compared to each other - and equally dangerous, funny, and loveable! The dialogues are sure to please and bring a smile to one's face, but the fun doesn't stop there! Because the whole story is told from Matt's POV, so we get to see every description, every scene, through his eyes and thoughts - and the kid is like the personification of cynical sarcasm!
Word of advice? Read it! As soon as possible! You won't know what you've been missing all this time until you've started Matt's story!
***I was given an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinion stated in this review is solely mine, and no compensation was given or taken to alter it.***
You can find this and other reviews at: http://cupcakesandpopcorn.wordpress.com/
May 6, 2014
More reviews at http://losttobooks.blogspot.com
Acutal rating 3.5
Disruption sounded like it would be an action-packed and gripping read that would have a lot of mysterious and strands to it. Those were the aspects of the blurb that persuaded me to download this this novel from NetGalley--well besides the spy hint. For the most part this was an entertaining read and it did keep me hooked, but I just can't help but feel a little disappointed that parts were so obvious and the ending kind of fizzled out for me.
I was hooked from page one with Disruption. The prank--although not funny--caught my interest and the kid-being-sent-away aspect set up the book nicely. I also liked that the book was written from Matt's POV in the first person. For me, it was a refreshing change to read about a male protagonist. It was easy to connect with him due to the single person narrative however, there was also a significant amount of overall description was good and detailed, setting the scene well for the reader.
In general, I liked the camp and the idea behind the story. I also liked Matt's obliviousness as it gave the book another dimension. The reader knew something was up and knew more than Matt which I normally like as it's fun to watch the characters struggle and come to grips with everything. I think Whibley created a strong cast of characters that all clearly had their own personalities and the gelled well in the book. I liked that they were all as strong as the next and the fighting element made Disruption interesting.
However, despite all of that, I did find my attention waning towards the end. I know there was meant to be this big climax but I figured it out way before so it just lacked any impact for me. I don't want to reveal what happens as I don't want to ruin it for you guys if you give this book a go but for me it was obvious what was going on. The fact that the author kept repeating certain phrases dropped significant hints that not all was what it seemed and for me there was only one other plausible explanation which turned out to be right. I wanted the mystery of what was really going on to be concealed better as not one thing surprised me. As well as this there were a few scenes that were exactly like other books I've read so my attention once again wasn't fully with the book during the moments.
The only other thing I had a problem was the age at which the author pitched Matt. The blurb said he was fourteen but for me, he felt more 16/17. The way he acted, spoke and took control was just unbelievable for me and I couldn't picture him at that age. The age issue, for me, was also highlighted by some of the terms the author used and then never explained. I know they were in this secret camp but for the readers' sake I felt they needed explaining as I would have had no clue what they meant if it wasn't for the dictionary on my Kindle which is a pain to load.
Overall, Disruption was an interesting read that started off well. I felt the mystery needed to be constructed better to make the goal of the camp less obvious so it could hold my interest better as when you figure the main idea out at such an early stage it does take the pleasure out of reading as it becomes a question of "am I right?" Saying that though, there were good points about this book and if you like spy novels this may interest you.
Acutal rating 3.5
Disruption sounded like it would be an action-packed and gripping read that would have a lot of mysterious and strands to it. Those were the aspects of the blurb that persuaded me to download this this novel from NetGalley--well besides the spy hint. For the most part this was an entertaining read and it did keep me hooked, but I just can't help but feel a little disappointed that parts were so obvious and the ending kind of fizzled out for me.
I was hooked from page one with Disruption. The prank--although not funny--caught my interest and the kid-being-sent-away aspect set up the book nicely. I also liked that the book was written from Matt's POV in the first person. For me, it was a refreshing change to read about a male protagonist. It was easy to connect with him due to the single person narrative however, there was also a significant amount of overall description was good and detailed, setting the scene well for the reader.
In general, I liked the camp and the idea behind the story. I also liked Matt's obliviousness as it gave the book another dimension. The reader knew something was up and knew more than Matt which I normally like as it's fun to watch the characters struggle and come to grips with everything. I think Whibley created a strong cast of characters that all clearly had their own personalities and the gelled well in the book. I liked that they were all as strong as the next and the fighting element made Disruption interesting.
However, despite all of that, I did find my attention waning towards the end. I know there was meant to be this big climax but I figured it out way before so it just lacked any impact for me. I don't want to reveal what happens as I don't want to ruin it for you guys if you give this book a go but for me it was obvious what was going on. The fact that the author kept repeating certain phrases dropped significant hints that not all was what it seemed and for me there was only one other plausible explanation which turned out to be right. I wanted the mystery of what was really going on to be concealed better as not one thing surprised me. As well as this there were a few scenes that were exactly like other books I've read so my attention once again wasn't fully with the book during the moments.
The only other thing I had a problem was the age at which the author pitched Matt. The blurb said he was fourteen but for me, he felt more 16/17. The way he acted, spoke and took control was just unbelievable for me and I couldn't picture him at that age. The age issue, for me, was also highlighted by some of the terms the author used and then never explained. I know they were in this secret camp but for the readers' sake I felt they needed explaining as I would have had no clue what they meant if it wasn't for the dictionary on my Kindle which is a pain to load.
Overall, Disruption was an interesting read that started off well. I felt the mystery needed to be constructed better to make the goal of the camp less obvious so it could hold my interest better as when you figure the main idea out at such an early stage it does take the pleasure out of reading as it becomes a question of "am I right?" Saying that though, there were good points about this book and if you like spy novels this may interest you.
November 19, 2014
More reviews (and no fluff) on the blog http://surrealtalvi.wordpress.com/
Disruption surprised me: this is a fun YA adventure with a likeable main character and an interesting set of side characters. There were several twists that provided a satisfying punctuation to the end of the story and creating a satisfying read. But there are also many unanswered questions that we can look forward to being answered in further volumes. Lack of swearing and sex (as well as romance) make it a good read for all ages.
Matt Cambridge and his best friend Jason are jokers at heart - pulling pranks to snub their noses at the teachers. But when one prank goes too far, Matt's father, a janitor at a small company, is somehow able to pull strings to get Matt into Camp Friendship; his hope is to give his son time to think about what he has done. But camp isn't all he thought it would be and the 'activities' prove to be very dangerous. What Matt discovers is a CIA training camp and he is suddenly going to have to take it seriously. For although he could always give up and go home, he realizes he actually enjoys the challenge. Even if it may get him maimed, or worse, killed.
I have read many YA books with the theme of kids trapped in a place like a remote school or camp where they are mistreated and imprisoned. I expected this to be more of the same but surprisingly it wasn't. There are no supernatural elements (though we do have shadow organizations) and our main character, Matt, isn't trapped there. And we believe the reasons he gives to stay despite the daunting nature of the day-to-day life at the camp.
As well, I worried that this would be another situation where circumstance and accidents defy logic and we're supposed to accept that because it makes the author look clever. But we didn't get that here again - Matt's survival makes a lot of sense and I didn't worry about plausibility issues because I was enjoying the read so much. Matt didn't completely win but he didn't completely lose either. It was just plain fun.
Another concern was that Matt was going to be completely unlikeable - an idiot ranting against society or nearly sociopathic. But really, as written, he's a character we get behind and want to see succeed. The actions at the camp put his pranks into context and he learns a bit about himself in the process. Really, he's a cool character.
This is very easy to read and follow. There is a good mix of mystery and some twists can be predicted but others can't. It made for a very enjoyable read.
Reviewed from an ecopy provided by the publisher.
September 26, 2016
I love a good fantasy read, unfortunately there are way more misses in that department than hits (though I've definitely read some good ones!)... especially in middle grade/young adult lit. But really, I think the market is over saturated. Let's see something different from magic and the elements and finding some hidden destiny, okay?
Disruption was refreshing in this way. It's still a middle grade novel, but it's about kids. And while they're not your typical kids, everything feels real in a this-is-our-world kind of way. I actually loved the story:
Matt plays a prank and it goes wrong, his dad is tired of the pranks and gets him enrolled in a summer camp that he hopes will straighten him out. Of course, Matt quickly realizes things aren't quite what they seem. And with that we are left to figure things out right along side of him. About halfway through the book I kept wondering why the title Disruption? but that becomes apparent by the end of the story.
I actually only have three quibbles with the book.
1. The exact same description of Matt's unsteady appetite is used twice in the book. I told you it was a quibble. It was fine the first time, but it stood out to me upon repetition.
2. I didn't really like how Matt had an attitude about school and thinking students who did well were geeky, nerdy, etc etc. I realize some kids have this perspective, but not everyone and it could turn some kids toward thinking that way. But that is hardly the focus of the book, and is easily forgiven in this case.
3. This one is a little more substantial. I would've preferred a different ending. I think this story would've worked best as a stand alone novel, not the start of a series. I won't give spoilers, but I think the choice offered at the end of the book is unrealistic, and since the whole book felt real to that point, it was a shame. I get wanting to make a series, but I'm not sure they'll have the same feel to them this book did. I think they'll require a greater suspension of belief, but I could be wrong.
The book is well paced, and I think this is a great book to hand reluctant readers. I plan on giving this book to my nephew. It's well written, has a good hook, and is definitely worth a read.
4 stars.
I was given a complimentary ecopy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Disruption was refreshing in this way. It's still a middle grade novel, but it's about kids. And while they're not your typical kids, everything feels real in a this-is-our-world kind of way. I actually loved the story:
Matt plays a prank and it goes wrong, his dad is tired of the pranks and gets him enrolled in a summer camp that he hopes will straighten him out. Of course, Matt quickly realizes things aren't quite what they seem. And with that we are left to figure things out right along side of him. About halfway through the book I kept wondering why the title Disruption? but that becomes apparent by the end of the story.
I actually only have three quibbles with the book.
1. The exact same description of Matt's unsteady appetite is used twice in the book. I told you it was a quibble. It was fine the first time, but it stood out to me upon repetition.
2. I didn't really like how Matt had an attitude about school and thinking students who did well were geeky, nerdy, etc etc. I realize some kids have this perspective, but not everyone and it could turn some kids toward thinking that way. But that is hardly the focus of the book, and is easily forgiven in this case.
3. This one is a little more substantial. I would've preferred a different ending. I think this story would've worked best as a stand alone novel, not the start of a series. I won't give spoilers, but I think the choice offered at the end of the book is unrealistic, and since the whole book felt real to that point, it was a shame. I get wanting to make a series, but I'm not sure they'll have the same feel to them this book did. I think they'll require a greater suspension of belief, but I could be wrong.
The book is well paced, and I think this is a great book to hand reluctant readers. I plan on giving this book to my nephew. It's well written, has a good hook, and is definitely worth a read.
4 stars.
I was given a complimentary ecopy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
December 29, 2016
A great young adult novel, that my grandson and granddaughter enjoyed very much, as well as myself. Matt starts growing up a bit towards the end, that shows how young adults are. Totally enjoyable story, that had all of us reading together. Loved having something we could all share. A wonderful fiction story, that is not to be missed. Received a free copy, that was a pleasure to review
April 6, 2014
Steven Whibley is quickly becoming one of my favorite new authors. I really enjoyed his previous titles, and when I saw he had a new book out I had to check it out. The story is about a 14 year old kid whose dad feels he's heading down a bad road. As punishment for his latest prank, his dad signs him up for a camp that's supposed to straighten kids out. But the camp is not at all what anyone will expect
I felt the beginning was a tiny bit slow, and I think it's because I didn't like Matt at first. But it quickly became clear the author had done that on purpose. The believable way the character changes over the course of the book was remarkable. If he had been likable at the start I think I wouldn't have bought how angry his dad was, and how desperate he was to do something to straighten his kid out. But at first I was like, "Just send him to Alaska! He's a punk!" and then when Matt realized he was the small fish and his character started to develop and grow I totally bought it.
I read a book that did something really similar called "Before I Fall" by Lauren Oliver, where the girl dies and relives that day over and over. I hated that girl at the start too, but totally rooted for her at the end. I did the same thing for Matt. I especially liked the characters attitude at the end. It was only a few weeks and he grew up so much but I believed it. I don't get super excited about stories like this very often, but this was really great.The other characters, who were way worse than matt, were likable from the start, and the unique voices of each character was just really great. I have to admit I did have an idea where Matt really was about the 50% mark of the book but I kept second guessing it because of some of the character comments and the fact that Butler was there.
Kids, parents and teachers are going to like this book. I can't wait for book 2 and emailed the author to find out when it would come out but I didn't get an answer yet. I hope it's soon.
MOAR PLEASE!!!
I felt the beginning was a tiny bit slow, and I think it's because I didn't like Matt at first. But it quickly became clear the author had done that on purpose. The believable way the character changes over the course of the book was remarkable. If he had been likable at the start I think I wouldn't have bought how angry his dad was, and how desperate he was to do something to straighten his kid out. But at first I was like, "Just send him to Alaska! He's a punk!" and then when Matt realized he was the small fish and his character started to develop and grow I totally bought it.
I read a book that did something really similar called "Before I Fall" by Lauren Oliver, where the girl dies and relives that day over and over. I hated that girl at the start too, but totally rooted for her at the end. I did the same thing for Matt. I especially liked the characters attitude at the end. It was only a few weeks and he grew up so much but I believed it. I don't get super excited about stories like this very often, but this was really great.The other characters, who were way worse than matt, were likable from the start, and the unique voices of each character was just really great. I have to admit I did have an idea where Matt really was about the 50% mark of the book but I kept second guessing it because of some of the character comments and the fact that Butler was there.
Kids, parents and teachers are going to like this book. I can't wait for book 2 and emailed the author to find out when it would come out but I didn't get an answer yet. I hope it's soon.
MOAR PLEASE!!!
July 31, 2014
Disruption by Steven Whibley was an interesting and fun concept, and for the most part well executed. When fourteen year old Matt gets sent to a ‘summer camp’ his dad signed him up for through work, he has no idea what he’s truly heading into. With every other kid in there seeming to speak their own language, and the activities far more barbaric than a regular camp promotes, it fast occurs to Matt that this is no ordinary camp. After a handful of very confusing days, with Matt’s rather clueless investigating sending his mind in all directions, he starts sliding all the pieces of the picture into place and comes up with a Picasso.
Just as the descriptions of the book might suggest, Disruption takes us on all of Matt’s activities (which are actually challenges—dangerous ones—he must pass in order to remain there), all the way to the end, where the ultimate challenge will declare him and his team the winner. Except, the end challenge is nothing like he expected. Nor is the gusto with which his fellow teammates seem to want to cause havoc to the public. Nor is the aftermath of chaos caused, or the CIA collaring him, or the reveal that everything he thought he had figured out is absolutely nothing like reality.
I think I marked this one down mostly because there are a few parts where the constant challenge after challenge became a bit monotonous, and with the added constant confusion on Matt’s behalf the story seemed to drag through the middle third of the book, picking up again as it neared the finish. Plus, there were a lot of unanswered questions (mostly involving his dad and how he managed to sign him for this camp in the first place) and the ending was pretty much a non-ending, which means if the reader wants to know how the story ends, they have little choice about picking up the next one.
Other than those couple of niggles, though, this was a fairly decent read.
Just as the descriptions of the book might suggest, Disruption takes us on all of Matt’s activities (which are actually challenges—dangerous ones—he must pass in order to remain there), all the way to the end, where the ultimate challenge will declare him and his team the winner. Except, the end challenge is nothing like he expected. Nor is the gusto with which his fellow teammates seem to want to cause havoc to the public. Nor is the aftermath of chaos caused, or the CIA collaring him, or the reveal that everything he thought he had figured out is absolutely nothing like reality.
I think I marked this one down mostly because there are a few parts where the constant challenge after challenge became a bit monotonous, and with the added constant confusion on Matt’s behalf the story seemed to drag through the middle third of the book, picking up again as it neared the finish. Plus, there were a lot of unanswered questions (mostly involving his dad and how he managed to sign him for this camp in the first place) and the ending was pretty much a non-ending, which means if the reader wants to know how the story ends, they have little choice about picking up the next one.
Other than those couple of niggles, though, this was a fairly decent read.
June 15, 2014
Matt Cambridge is your average fourteen year old, until he pulls a prank that almost kills an auditorium full of people (but only almost so it doesn't matter).
His parents aren't too happy about that, and his dad gives him an ultimatum: to go to Alaska to live with his aunt, or to a camp that his father snuck him into.
At this camp, called Camp Friendship, Matt is hella confused.
The kids and activities are anything but normal, and Matt finds out it's a camp for future spies.
-
Crappy synopsis, but I thought this book was just one of the free ones I'd downloaded off of Amazon, and didn't realize that I'd have to review it.
OOPS.
So, I don't like teenage boys.
Especially not in YA fiction. Because they're either waaay too girly to be a believable boy, or too testosterone.
Matt, as a character, was kind of ... eh.
I wasn't too impressed with the story either.
Spies are my FAVORITE.
I've read tons of books, watched tons of spy shows, and this book fell a little flat for me.
I'm surprised that Matt didn't ask more questions, and I didn't like how 50% of the way through the book we were still trying to figure out what the hell is going on.
DISCLAIMER:
This book was sent to me for review by Netgalley. I am not profiting from this review.
His parents aren't too happy about that, and his dad gives him an ultimatum: to go to Alaska to live with his aunt, or to a camp that his father snuck him into.
At this camp, called Camp Friendship, Matt is hella confused.
The kids and activities are anything but normal, and Matt finds out it's a camp for future spies.
-
Crappy synopsis, but I thought this book was just one of the free ones I'd downloaded off of Amazon, and didn't realize that I'd have to review it.
OOPS.
So, I don't like teenage boys.
Especially not in YA fiction. Because they're either waaay too girly to be a believable boy, or too testosterone.
Matt, as a character, was kind of ... eh.
I wasn't too impressed with the story either.
Spies are my FAVORITE.
I've read tons of books, watched tons of spy shows, and this book fell a little flat for me.
I'm surprised that Matt didn't ask more questions, and I didn't like how 50% of the way through the book we were still trying to figure out what the hell is going on.
DISCLAIMER:
This book was sent to me for review by Netgalley. I am not profiting from this review.
December 19, 2016
I tend to avoid YA novels as I have more than enough to read, and if I add another genre to the mix, I'll never read everything I would like to, not that I will anyway. However, this novel's description really caught my eye, and I thought I would give it a try. At the very beginning of the book, I have to admit I wasn't sure I was going to like it because the protagonist came across a little bit of a brat. However, once the book got going, I was completely and totally hooked. The protagonist didn't take long to grow on me; the book was full of suspense, so much so I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next; and the book was extremely well-written. By the end of the book, Matt had done a lot of growing up, and I really liked him. I did read several reviews after I finished reading this that said it was a little far-fetched, especially the end. I say, so what? I was completely and utterly entertained from start to finish which is what I want in a book, and this book has plenty of that. I liked it so much, I am going to get my 13-year-old son to read it because I think he would love it, as well. Do yourself a favor and pick this book up today. It is really worth it! Highly recommend!
Thanks to the author for the e-book which I read voluntarily. This exact review will be posted on both Amazon and Goodreads.
Thanks to the author for the e-book which I read voluntarily. This exact review will be posted on both Amazon and Goodreads.
June 4, 2014
This was an amazing read! I really loved reading this, It reminded me of so many great books, like Artemis Fowl and The Maze Runner. I really loved Matt's character and how he grew throughout the story.
Disruption is about a trickster 14 year old named Matt that is forced to go to "Campy Friendship" because at his eighth grade graduation him and his partner in crime nearly caused a fire and filled the gymnasium with smoke. He's a juvenile, a troubled kid who likes to play too much and don't know when enough is enough. So his father sends him to this camp as a last resort. He either gets his act together or it's off to Alaska to live with his aunt.
So he goes but he quickly realizes that this is not a normal camp. Kids are chosen as Deltas, his team is incredibly wary of him, and nothing seems like the camp is a normal one.
I really liked finding out what was going on right along side Matt, that we were given hints about it but weren't told before Matt found out.
I really loved this and can't wait to buy it to have it on my shelf!
June 13, 2014
Disclosure: I got this book as an ARC from Netgalley.
Being a trouble maker really works in the benefit of Matt when his parents send him to Camp Friendship after his latest prank nearly kills a gym of students. Oblivious to the actual nature of the camp Matt thinks he is bound to be making leather bracelets and singing Kumbaya only to find out he is in for a completely different sort of camp. Quickly, Matt learns that his life is at greater risk at this camp than he ever thought and the other campers are dangerous. Before long Matt thinks he figured out the purpose of the camp, but it may not be all that it seems to be.
Steven Whibley creates a web of questions within the story that leave the reader wondering who or what is real. The plot constiently thickens until the very end. The colorful description and unique take on a young adult read definitely sets it apart from many of the young adults out there. Its set in modern day and has the real life angst tha teens are typically overridden with. I liked both the artistic style of the writing as well as the overall theme. I look forward to reading the Cambridge files and I could definitely see this in the theaters.
Being a trouble maker really works in the benefit of Matt when his parents send him to Camp Friendship after his latest prank nearly kills a gym of students. Oblivious to the actual nature of the camp Matt thinks he is bound to be making leather bracelets and singing Kumbaya only to find out he is in for a completely different sort of camp. Quickly, Matt learns that his life is at greater risk at this camp than he ever thought and the other campers are dangerous. Before long Matt thinks he figured out the purpose of the camp, but it may not be all that it seems to be.
Steven Whibley creates a web of questions within the story that leave the reader wondering who or what is real. The plot constiently thickens until the very end. The colorful description and unique take on a young adult read definitely sets it apart from many of the young adults out there. Its set in modern day and has the real life angst tha teens are typically overridden with. I liked both the artistic style of the writing as well as the overall theme. I look forward to reading the Cambridge files and I could definitely see this in the theaters.
October 10, 2015
I read the authors other books and liked them so I was excited to see this book and see that it was the first in a new series. I really enjoyed this story.
Matt Cambridge is kind of your typical 14 year old. He gets into some trouble and his dad sends him to a camp to straighten out. To be honest, I had reservations at this point. I thought it was going to be another cliché kid in a summer camp book, and I've read more of those than I care to think about.
But this was an excellent and original and every time I thought I figured it out something would happen and I was sure I was wrong. I was right there with Matt, trying to piece the puzzle together.
The signature humor that I so enjoyed in Whibley's other books is here too. I like that there's the hint of more to come at the end of this book.
I can't wait for more people to read this book so I can talk about it with someone. I have to stop reading books when they first come out.
Matt Cambridge is kind of your typical 14 year old. He gets into some trouble and his dad sends him to a camp to straighten out. To be honest, I had reservations at this point. I thought it was going to be another cliché kid in a summer camp book, and I've read more of those than I care to think about.
But this was an excellent and original and every time I thought I figured it out something would happen and I was sure I was wrong. I was right there with Matt, trying to piece the puzzle together.
The signature humor that I so enjoyed in Whibley's other books is here too. I like that there's the hint of more to come at the end of this book.
I can't wait for more people to read this book so I can talk about it with someone. I have to stop reading books when they first come out.
December 31, 2016
A reviewer likened it to percy jackson action/adventure (not mythology). Now I like these types of books so I thought I'll give it a go, and I was pleasantly surprised! I thought it was even better then Rick Riordans stories (sorry Rick!) .
I felt the hero Matt was realistic. I believed in his character. He was a typical teenager who managed to get through the obstacles by chance, naivety, ignorance and experience. The author does it in such a way that it sounds realistic. If I were in his position I would have done what he did. What I also like about this book is that evil and good is not black and white. There are different shades in between and that you do form friendships with people who are not good. It shows the complexities of human nature.
I really liked this book. Would recommend it to those who like action adventure. If your looking for romance then you'll be disappointed because it doesn't have any.
Looking forward to the next book.
I felt the hero Matt was realistic. I believed in his character. He was a typical teenager who managed to get through the obstacles by chance, naivety, ignorance and experience. The author does it in such a way that it sounds realistic. If I were in his position I would have done what he did. What I also like about this book is that evil and good is not black and white. There are different shades in between and that you do form friendships with people who are not good. It shows the complexities of human nature.
I really liked this book. Would recommend it to those who like action adventure. If your looking for romance then you'll be disappointed because it doesn't have any.
Looking forward to the next book.
June 7, 2014
2.5 stars
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book from Netgalley for free on a read-to-review basis.)
This book reminds me a lot of Agent Cody Banks.
Matt Cambridge is a highschool student that was penalized for pranking their Senior Talent Show and was punished by his Dad by sending him to a summer Camp which Matt later finds out is not your ordinary type of Camp.
Immediately after arriving at the camp, Matt was named a leader in a competition that everybody seems to know except for him.
I may have an issue with why all the teams picked the same location for their last task and that this story is not plausible, but what the heck.
All in all I enjoyed guessing alongside Matt.
This review will also be posted in bookaholicfairies.blogspot.com
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book from Netgalley for free on a read-to-review basis.)
This book reminds me a lot of Agent Cody Banks.
Matt Cambridge is a highschool student that was penalized for pranking their Senior Talent Show and was punished by his Dad by sending him to a summer Camp which Matt later finds out is not your ordinary type of Camp.
Immediately after arriving at the camp, Matt was named a leader in a competition that everybody seems to know except for him.
I may have an issue with why all the teams picked the same location for their last task and that this story is not plausible, but what the heck.
All in all I enjoyed guessing alongside Matt.
This review will also be posted in bookaholicfairies.blogspot.com
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