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Ruby Redfort #4

Dunkler als die Nacht

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Super-intelligent, super-clever, super-sympathisch … Super-Ruby! Ruby Redfort, die jüngste Geheimagentin der Welt, steht vor einem Rätsel: Twinford wird von einer Einbruchserie heimgesucht, die die Einwohler in helle Aufruhr versetzt. Sogar aus Tresoren verschwinden Dinge. Und auch die Geheimdienstzentrale Spektrum, für die Ruby arbeitet, wird von den Dieben nicht verschont. Mysteriöserweise ist auf den Überwachungskameras nie etwas zu sehen. Schließlich kommt Ruby dem Täter auf die Spur – und schwebt bald darauf in Lebensgefahr ... Die jüngste Geheimagentin der Welt löst ihren vierten Fall!Alle Bände der Serie:"Ruby Redfort – Gefährlicher als Gold""Ruby Redfort – Kälter als das Meer""Ruby Redfort – Schneller als Feuer""Ruby Redfort – Dunkler als die Nacht""Ruby Redfort – Giftiger als Schlangen""Ruby Redfort – Tödlicher als Verrat" (erscheint im Februar 2018) Inhaltsverzeichnis

512 pages, Hardcover

First published May 12, 2014

117 people are currently reading
1738 people want to read

About the author

Lauren Child

451 books837 followers
Lauren Child MBE is an English author and illustrator. She was the UK Children's Laureate from 2017-19.

Child grew up in Wiltshire as the middle child of three sisters and the daughter of two teachers. She has always been interested in the many aspects of childhood, from gazing into toy shop windows to watching American children's shows from the 1960s. After attending two Art Schools, she travelled for six months, still unsure about which career to embark upon.

Before writing and illustrating children's books Child started her own company 'Chandeliers for the People' making lampshades. It was only when she came to write and illustrate the book Clarice Bean, That's Me that she decided to devote her time to writing and illustrating books for children, which combines her fascination for childhood and her talent for designing and creating. Child gets her inspiration from other people's conversations or from seeing something funny happen.

Her book I Will Not Ever Never Eat A Tomato won the 2000 Kate Greenaway Medal. For the 50th anniversary of the Medal (1955–2005), a panel named it one of the top ten winning works, which comprised the shortlist for a public vote for the nation's favourite. It finished third in the public vote from that shortlist.

Child lives in North London.

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5 stars
2,031 (58%)
4 stars
1,037 (29%)
3 stars
342 (9%)
2 stars
54 (1%)
1 star
19 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
Profile Image for Jacinda.
14 reviews2 followers
January 11, 2015
Reading the Ruby Redfort series never fails to make me want to stock up on banana milk and bubblegum. It also never fails to make we want to become a secret agent and go around calling people bozos.

Anyway.

This was an electric read and an excellent addition to my favourite book series!!

I think I might start re-reading it right away.
Profile Image for Georgie.
593 reviews10 followers
June 26, 2015
There aren't many adult fiction books out there which are pure, simple *fun* to read (Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum books being a notable exception, they're fab!). This is one of the main reasons I read a lot of MG/YA books - a lot of adult authors (and therefore us as adult readers) seem to have forgotten that writing (and reading) can be simply fun.

Ruby Redfort is awesome. She's a smart, funny, yet far-from-perfect heroine. She breaks rules as often as she makes them. I loved all the cool gadgets she has as an agent for Spectrum. I loved the words she uses 'buster', 'bozo', and 'jeepers'. She's an incredibly refreshing change from saps like Bella Swan (if Ruby met a sparkly vampire she would probably deck him) and goody-two-shoes like Nancy Drew.

The mystery element of the story- revolving around a series of seemingly impossible burglaries somehow connected to an old-time movie star and her most famous film - genuinely kept me hooked and I didn't guess 'whodunnit'.

I loved the secondary characters, especially Ruby's butler/spy minder Hitch, her colleague Blacker, and especially her best friend, Clancy.

I definitely want to read the rest of the series, and the Clarice Bean fiction books too now.

Ruby Redfort is yet further proof that
a) You don't have to be in the middle-grade/teenage age group to really enjoy books written for them
b) Middle-grade and teen books are often better than a lot of 'grown up' books.

Profile Image for Liberty.
276 reviews3 followers
May 20, 2024
this book is insaneee oml
25 reviews1 follower
December 7, 2017
#5 “Feel the fear” written by Lauren Child is a mystery. Ruby Redfort is trying to solve these crimes that seem random all over town. They are all done by a thief that seems to walk through the air. So all of spectrum and the agents are trying to work on it and figure out who it is. At the beginning the song was very boring! But then as I kept reading it got more interesting. I also feel like all her books are the same. In the beginning she almost gets fired from her job. She does some stupid things and it always works out in the end. So I got kinda bored because I always thought I would know what would happen next. But I was pleasantly surprised with the twists that kept happening. I also love how everything kept connecting together in ways you wouldn’t expect. All in all I thought it was a good book I just wish she used maybe a little different format for her book. I think the theme of this book is don’t jump to conclusions. Because she would figure something out and then things wouldn’t add up. So she had to keep thinking about what it could be. I really liked this book but I think she could have used a different format for her book.
Profile Image for Gouri Verma.
139 reviews
September 10, 2021
This is the best book in the series!!!!!!❤️❤️❤️❤️ I LOVEDDD THE UNEXPECTED SHOCKING TWISTS AT THE END!!!!!!!

Well, in this one, someone is stealing a whole lot of things but there has to be a connection. The person stealing them is invisible😶 And this time, Ruby is being extra fearless.

Sooo Ruby Redfort never fails to dissapoint me! I loved this book the most in the series!! It was just so gripping!! Clancy didn’t help Ruby much solving the case but ofcourse, he was cool and funny!! Hitch and LB were even funnier and cool as well!!❤️ The ending was my favourite part!! There were sooo many twists at the end, I wasn’t able to guess even one of them😂 But they threw me!! And we met a whole lot of new people in this one!!❤️ Fortunately, the ending was not much of a cliffhanger❤️

I LOVED IT!!❤️
Profile Image for ganzgrossartig.
127 reviews5 followers
Read
February 12, 2023
definitiv einer der besten bände der reihe, der zweite bleibt aber mein favorit!
Profile Image for Kelsey.
123 reviews14 followers
May 9, 2017
I received a free copy of this book through Goodreads Giveaways.

Delightful! Our favorite teenage secret agent is back in another adventure teeming with wisecracks, parkour, and death-defying stunts. This time the intrepid Ruby Redfort must take her skills to new heights to track down a tightrope walking cat burglar. And just to make the case even more interesting, this height-defying prowler also seems to be...invisible? Put your thinking caps on and remember: Don't look down!
Profile Image for Ella Storey.
374 reviews3 followers
May 8, 2022
I can't express how much I love this book. I have read it three times and I haven't gotten bored once! This novel is gripping, action-packed and very funny. I love Ruby and Clancy's interaction with each other and Lauren Child is such a talented author. Thank you for writing such an amazing book!!!
Profile Image for Nola Lorraine.
Author 2 books43 followers
May 16, 2016
3.5 stars. This is Book 4 in the Ruby Redfort series. Ruby is a thirteen-year-old rich kid who works as a code-breaker for spy agency Spectrum. She's already cheated death a number of times in her previous cases, so is starting to think she's invincible. But if you can't 'feel the fear', it can lead you to take unacceptable risks that not only put you in danger, but also the others around you. Add to that a case involving an old theatre, a much-loved actress who can supposedly tap dance on a high wire, a thief who leaves unusual calling cards at the scene of each break-in, and gadgetry fitting for James Bond.

There were a lot of things I liked about this book. The case itself was interesting with some twists and turns. The text was broken up every now and then by the inclusion of diagrams and photos which help you to visualise different aspects of the case. There was educational value, such as explanations in the back of the book to show how Ruby cracked the code, and diagrams to show how to do some of the moves in Parkour (i.e. a discipline where you overcome barriers in the urban environment).

However, I found it hard to connect to Ruby. I know I'm not part of the target demographic, but then I love the Flavia de Luce books and the Nancy Drew books and I'm not part of that demographic either. I think one of the problems was that she had some attitude, but I couldn't really see where that was coming from. I didn't really know what made her tick. Her parents were also two-dimensional and stereotypical, which added to the lack of connection with the characters. I haven't read the previous three books, so maybe more of the characterisation would have come out there. It was easy enough to jump in at No. 4 and know what was happening, but it also meant there were spoilers for some of the earlier books and a couple of past villains who pop up again. So it would be better to read them in order. I also didn't think the story needed the 500+ pages. It seemed to take a long time to get going and some scenes and sub-plots weren't necessary for the main story. However, once the case hotted up, there was more action and suspense and I was turning pages faster towards the end.

This book was enjoyable enough and it gave me some ideas about how to engage younger teens in a story. But I guess I'm more in the Flavia de Luce and Nancy Drew tribes.
Profile Image for Matisse.
14 reviews
August 26, 2017
This book is just as amazing as the first in the series, with all the usual Ruby wit plus new Ruby Rules.

I loved that for once I could piece together bits of the mystery and it all made sense, instead of Ruby figuring it all out before I had time to understand. Of course, this doesn't mean the mystery was lacking in any way! It was ingenious and as quirky as all the others, maybe even more so.

Old villains return, with the addition of a new super cool invisible thief.

Ruby has to deal with a popular boy crushing on her, and as usual doesn't let anything phase her as she tells him something along the lines of 'I'm sure you have a nice name buster but I don't have time to hear it...'

Then of course is the fact that she is getting way too fearless and ends up doing a series of impressive stunts until Hitch finally teaches her Parkour.

Clancy Crew is there with even more problems to deal with in his usual ways and Froghorn is still insufferable.

All in all I loved the book and it is my favourite of the series (tying with the first book of course).
Profile Image for Charlotte.
4 reviews18 followers
June 10, 2017
I don't think it was the best book, but it was ok. Ruby just has to many strengths and overcomes her flaws really fast. I wanted a bit more of Clancy. He was usually in the big climax but for some reason he wasn't. There should have been more about her reckless behavior and her changing. I didn't really like "avenging the mother thing". It just kind of seemed cliché. It was left at a minor cliffhanger and I'm hoping the next book will be good.
Profile Image for Kinga Kasino.
56 reviews1 follower
March 25, 2025
Wow wow wow! Co to była za książka?!🤯🤯 Na początku żałowałam, że nie została wydana po polsku, ale potem ku własnemu zdziwieniu odkryłam, że po angielsku bardziej mi się podoba. Czekałam tak długo, żeby przeczytać ten tom, miałam wysokie oczekiwania i w ogóle się nie zawiodłam. To już czwarta część mojej absolutnie najukochańszej na świecie serii dziecięcej. Zaczynamy od emocjonującego początku, napięcie nie opada aż do samego, pełnego zaskakujących zwrotów akcji końca. Uważam, że jak do tej pory (jeszcze nie wszystkie tomy za mną (na szczęście🙃)) jest to najlepsza część. Czemu? Już tłumaczę.
W innych tomach przeszkadzały mi odrobinę, elementy fantastyczne. Tutaj natomiast w ogóle nie zwróciłam na nie uwagi.
Uwielbiam bohaterów; samą Ruby, Chitcha, panią Digby i LB. Bardzo podoba mi się sposób wykreowania rodziców głównej bohaterki.
Rzadko zdarza mi się śmiać na książkach, a tutaj na niektórych momentach ja się wręcz dusiłam.
Koniec książki po prostu położył mnie na łopatki. Ja nie wiem jak takie zwroty akcji są w ogóle możliwe do napisania.
Teraz mam ochotę porzucić mój tbr i jedyne co czytać, to następne tomy tej świetnej serii.
Droga pani Lauren Child, po tylu latach pozostaje pani wciąż moją ulubioną autorką na świecie. Kłaniam się nisko. Bardzo panią podziwiam. Naprawdę czapki z głów 👏👏
Profile Image for Iida Kaarto.
107 reviews3 followers
June 24, 2023
3⭐️ tää kirjasarja on pääosin olllu tosi hyvä mut tää alku oli niin tylsä et meni kauheen kauan päästä sillee kunnol kiinni. Vertaa siihen et niis muis on menny varmaa muutama pv. Mut loppu oli iha hyvä
Profile Image for Ella.
427 reviews5 followers
September 7, 2015
WHY DO THE RUBY REDFORT BOOKS TAKE SO LONG TO COME TO AMERICA?????????????????????????????????????????????????????????? WE SPEAK ENGLISH TOO, IT'S NOT LIKE YOU NEED TO TRANSLATE IT!!!

UPDATE: I finally read this book, no thanks to the publisher. I actually had to order it from England. I mean, COME ON! All you have to do to sell it in America is remove a few Us! Anyway, out of the whole series, I think this book is my favorite, after #2. I liked the added drama of Ruby's fearless-ness and how it could get her killed, and I liked how once again the Count was back in the picture, he seemed rather absent in #3. Also, the code for solving Ruby and Clancy's code in this book was more difficult, and as a result, my favorite. Also, I was about to wonder if I was supposed to be able to translate the code on the side of the cover, but according to an interview I read earlier today, we will be able to solve them after the whole series is published. I also liked how the last two books have had more of Clancy's point of view, and we find out a bit more about Hitch in this book, giving us some more background I guess, although it isn't much. Also the is like the best twist ever, and I can not wait until the next book comes out so we can find out who.
Profile Image for Jessica.
100 reviews
December 18, 2015
Okay, one of my friends recommended this series to me and I never really got why she was so hyped up about it, but it wasn't completely worthless (actually it wasn't that bad) so I kept reading the series. Until I came to THIS piece of rubbish. The character had changed completely in one book from a normal person-maybe a bit cocky- to an obnoxious, stupid, vain IDIOT. The character was so NOT the person I had come to know. But I'm probably still going to read the others as it's nearly the end of the series and I want to find out what happens. It's a bit too childish for me but maybe you might enjoy it. 2 stars.
6 reviews
September 13, 2015
This book is one of the books that I enjoyed reading and the book that I read the most pages. The main character, Ruby Redfort is still young; about 13 years old and the story shows the intelligence of her and also shows drawings of how she solves the case mathematically such which way she goes frist to make it easier to understand the story. It describes the characters and the settings clearly so we can know where she is and what she's doing. Also, the conversation shows her knowledge against the case or problem that she is facing.
Profile Image for Willow Anne.
528 reviews92 followers
December 11, 2021
The plot of this one is really really good. These books just keep getting better and better! Also, I love the part with Bailey Roach and Clancy (or, at least, I like how it ends up). It's such a good side plot!

As I get further and further into my reread of the series, I'm remembering less and less of the plots. I've reread the first few books, mainly the first two, so many times that I know them front to back, but now? Not so much. Which I like because it makes for a more fun and exciting and edge-of-my-seat reading experience.
Profile Image for Silke.
167 reviews9 followers
September 3, 2020
Translated by:
Anne Braun

This book series is just pure fun, a galore of cool gadgets, lots of bubblegum and milkshakes. Ruby is smart, sassy and fearless which never fails to get her into serious danger - but luck (and her friends and guardians) always have her back. The mystery in this one felt like a real puzzle, which I loved a lot. It was the perfect book to read in struggling times.
Profile Image for Sean Harding.
5,798 reviews33 followers
November 12, 2018
More Ruby and she is as charming as ever, although sometimes the books are a bit too long, and maybe a bit too clever for their own good. Still Ruby is a great character and there is no denying that it is quite easily readable.
Profile Image for Tia.
306 reviews1 follower
December 13, 2024
My childhood favourite book series. Such a great children’s book that is enjoyable for all ages. The plot is so clever and Ruby Redfort is a strong, well-written character that is great inspiration for young girls.
Profile Image for Olivia.
109 reviews
January 1, 2022
One of the more beautifully described Ruby Redfort books. As always, I adored the format and aesthetic of the book, every child should experience Ruby Redfort
Profile Image for Rory.
24 reviews
January 27, 2017
Ruby Redfort is at it again when she chases after another mysterious criminal. Except....he's invisible?

I rate this book with five stars, because just like all the others it was amazing. Ruby Redfort proceeded to blow my mind so many times in this book and it was awesome. Granted, it did take some time to finish, but it was not because the story was slow. Cliffhanger after cliffhanger kept me reading.

I was kinda sad that Clancy wasn't in it as much. I won't spoil anything, but Ruby is a really great friend. I was so afraid that guy was going to come between their friendship. It was also weird to see how differently their POV was. I suspected that it was the same person, but I was still unsure. Lauren Child definitely surprised me!

Towards the end things definitely picked up, with different criminals popping up every which way. Ruby kept her cool better than I would have. Of course she always keeps her cool. I do hope that Claude is okay.... He isn't a murderer, also he saved Ruby! Like Ruby said, that doesn't sound like something a psychopath would do.

Just like the three books before it Feel The Fear had codes, suspense, a kick butt-thirteen year old girl, oblivious parents, an AWESOME butler/super spy, a great best friend, and so much more.

I definitely recommend this book to anyone who is willing to read it. Once again Lauren Child takes you on a thrilling rollercoaster that leaves you wanting more.
Profile Image for Ashley Arcigal.
14 reviews
January 8, 2019
"Feel the Fear" written by Lauren Child follows the mysteries encountered by one seemingly average girl. Her name is Ruby. When she was eight years old, she and thirty-three other participants took part in an experiment. It was test examining their capabilty of focus and being able to see everything all at once. She could also recount what people around her were wearing or doing. Psychologists concluded that she was remarkably brilliant, unlike any other. She is no ordinary kid. Her excellent observatory skills add to her confidence. When an apparent invisible thief starts stealing from the two highest buildings in Twinford, she is ready to feel the fear once again. "When you've dodged death as many times as she has you're bound to get a little fearless, which is a good thing... Right?"

This is my second time reading this novel. The last time being almost four years ago. Upon reading this novel again, I now see why I enjoyed it so much as a child. Older now, I didn't understand my own hype. Although the rush of unexpected endings and risky scenes really gets your heart racing, enticing you to go on.

This novel is one that you can really enjoy as a child and still thoroughly adore over ten years later (I could be pushing it a little there). Once you read from another, more knowledgeable perspective, the foreshadowing and hidden gems are really divulged. I recommend this novel to anyone looking for a reliable mystery to pounce upon.
1 review
February 13, 2019
I really enjoyed the Ruby Redfort series. The reason I like them so much is because there is lots of cliff hangers and they really intrigue me. Feel The Fear is my favorite Ruby Redfort series for me so far because when Ruby discovers things that she is not supposed to really makes me think of myself. When she figures out that The count and The Australian have a child, that shocked her and I because I would have never seen that coming. The plot of it was really good and I would recommend this book for many other people.
Profile Image for Emmaby Barton Grace.
792 reviews21 followers
September 25, 2024
ok the re-read is getting more fun now! i didn’t remember the plot of this one so it was pretty much like reading it for the first time, and its also starting to connect to a wider plot beyond the individual book, making it more exciting. also interesting seeing the psychological impacts on ruby with her feeling invincible

(i wish there was a tv adaptation of these books that would be so fun!!)

(also the notes on invisibility at the end were v interesting?? who knew metamaterial technology was a thing!)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews

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