What do you think?
Rate this book
Friday Barnes #10
Undercover
Friday is not running away. Yes, she did get on a train to Norway without telling anyone where she was going – but she had to help Binky. He may or may not have been attacked by a polar bear. Now he’s facing court martial for dereliction of duty. Obviously, Friday had to drop everything and travel 3000 kilometres to solve the case.
The fact that it’s easier to handle her feelings for Ian Wainscott if there’s a continent between them is just a coincidence. When Friday arrives in Oslo, there are so many mysteries to solve. Is someone trying to keep Binky and Princess Ingrid apart? How can a painting leave a museum when all the doors are sealed? And will Melanie persuade Friday to go to the royal ball without wearing a brown cardigan?
If Friday survives her trip to the remote Global Seed Vault, we may find out.
The fact that it’s easier to handle her feelings for Ian Wainscott if there’s a continent between them is just a coincidence. When Friday arrives in Oslo, there are so many mysteries to solve. Is someone trying to keep Binky and Princess Ingrid apart? How can a painting leave a museum when all the doors are sealed? And will Melanie persuade Friday to go to the royal ball without wearing a brown cardigan?
If Friday survives her trip to the remote Global Seed Vault, we may find out.
198 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2022
36 people are currently reading
197 people want to read
About the author
R.A. Spratt
47 books366 followersR.A. Spratt is an award-winning author and television writer. She lives in Bowral, Australia with her husband and two daughters.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
May 6, 2022
We catch up with Friday Barnes exactly where we left her at the end of No Escape, pondering a job offer that would allow her to work alongside Ian, her “super-hot, brilliant, emotionally unstable boyfriend”. It’s a big decision but first Friday needs to solve some mysteries. Besides, they’re a good cover story for running away.
What mystery does this involve? Dereliction of duty. See, Binky was on guard duty and it appeared he fell asleep on the job but he wasn’t actually asleep. He was knocked unconscious by a polar bear and no one will believe him. Friday thinks the polar bear was framed.
Friday is also busy solving the case of the missing clothes and the case of the missing artwork.
Melanie still managed to snag her fair share of the best lines; when she was awake, that is. Binky just gets more and more adorable every time I see him.
My favourite character in this book, though, was Arthur. Anyone who hides behind a curtain reading a book because there’s a social gathering going on is my kind of human being.
Blog - https://schizanthusnerd.com
‘There’s nothing wrong with running away,’ said Melanie. ‘Not if you’re being chased by a bear or a chainsaw-wielding psychopath.’Melanie’s brother, Binky, is in Norway. His girlfriend is a princess and the only way to make her father semi okay with their relationship was for Binky to sign up to serve two years in the Norwegian army. The only problem is, he might be getting kicked out of the army and if that happens, it’s goodbye Ingrid.
What mystery does this involve? Dereliction of duty. See, Binky was on guard duty and it appeared he fell asleep on the job but he wasn’t actually asleep. He was knocked unconscious by a polar bear and no one will believe him. Friday thinks the polar bear was framed.
Friday is also busy solving the case of the missing clothes and the case of the missing artwork.
‘I need you to do that thing where you crawl along the floor sniffing things, then stand up and patronise everyone for five minutes before revealing who did it.’That doesn’t mean there’s no time for playing dress up and dancing. Luckily for Friday, she has an awkward-social-situation ejector button. It works sometimes.
Melanie still managed to snag her fair share of the best lines; when she was awake, that is. Binky just gets more and more adorable every time I see him.
My favourite character in this book, though, was Arthur. Anyone who hides behind a curtain reading a book because there’s a social gathering going on is my kind of human being.
‘You are a very strange boy,’ said Friday.Ten books in and I’m still loving this series. I can’t wait for the next one!
‘I know,’ said Arthur. ‘I try to hide it, but everyone sees right through me.’
Blog - https://schizanthusnerd.com
July 13, 2023
Why do I like these books better now, than when I was closer to the target audience age? But this was great. I always love seeing Friday, Melanie, and Ian, I've missed them (yes it's only been a year). Also I was surprised to find how much I'd missed Binky and Ingrid (they're very adorable). I also appreciate how much emphasis there is on how dysfunctional Friday and Ian's relationship is, because it is very dysfunctional and it's good that she's acknowledging that, rather than trying to pretend it's really healthy (objectively and in real life). However, in context it's perfectly fine to be dysfunctional, because individually Friday and Ian have a lot of issues, so it fits. That's not to say that I don't love them though (because I do very much #frian4ever).
Anyway, it was hilarious and I loved it. Highly recommended this entire series.
Anyway, it was hilarious and I loved it. Highly recommended this entire series.
February 3, 2022
best series i’ve ever read tbh. i love ian and friday content but i wish there was more.
July 11, 2023
AHHHH ten year old me is thriving rn. I read this book in about two hours and both hours were just pure bliss. I was snorting, kicking my feet, twirling my hair the whole lot. I’ve been with this series for close to a decade and have an embarrassingly deep connection to the characters. And can I just say other than maybe the sixth one this is definitely my new favourite. The mysteries were good the romance exceeded my expectations and we were in Europe which was just amazing. I’m so glad I liked this one because I didn’t really enjoy the last one much but now my love for this series has been renewed. Will probably read the next instalment in the next 24hrs (never been so grateful I was behind in a series loll 😅).
February 21, 2022
3 stars.
i manifested a ball with friday and ian and i got one.
I NEED THE 11TH BOOK GRRRRR
i manifested a ball with friday and ian and i got one.
I NEED THE 11TH BOOK GRRRRR
May 25, 2022
All of R.A.Spratt’s book are the best this one is particularly AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
——————————————————review——
THIS IS THE BEST BOOK IN THE EXISTING HISTORY OF THE WORLD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I can’t wait for Last Chance!!! I need book 11!
I love this part:
—————————————page 244—————
‘Oh,Ian,’ said Friday, though chattering teeth.
‘Thank you for chasing after me.’
‘Across the tundra tonight, or generally in life.’ asked Ian. His face was pressed up against her,trying to share body heat.
‘Both,’ said Friday.
‘It’s okay,’ said Ian.
——————————————————————🐻❄️
——————————————————review——
THIS IS THE BEST BOOK IN THE EXISTING HISTORY OF THE WORLD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I can’t wait for Last Chance!!! I need book 11!
I love this part:
—————————————page 244—————
‘Oh,Ian,’ said Friday, though chattering teeth.
‘Thank you for chasing after me.’
‘Across the tundra tonight, or generally in life.’ asked Ian. His face was pressed up against her,trying to share body heat.
‘Both,’ said Friday.
‘It’s okay,’ said Ian.
——————————————————————🐻❄️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2022
bingrid > frian
THE BALL SCENE WAS EVERYTHING I EVER WANTED
THE BALL SCENE WAS EVERYTHING I EVER WANTED
August 20, 2022
comfort series i love Friday and Ian
August 24, 2023
Perfection, as always. They never get old
December 26, 2022
Another very fun adventure with Friday and the gang. These books make me happy because they’re so easy to read and so quick, but also really clever. And they teach me stuff too. I wish I were as smart as Friday. Melanie was a highlight as always. Binky was super cute. Ian was frustrating and adorable, unsurprisingly. I loved Friday getting a makeover and being out of her comfort zone with the ball and paparazzi. There were some grammatical errors and then other parts that I felt were not looked at closely enough. Almost like this was rushed to publishing. But I can overlook that. Still a fun read!
October 16, 2022
I love this series but the tenth book was a bit of a disappointment. I managed to guess the plot and the characters didn't kiss! (very unfortunately). It normally ends on a cliffhanger but it wasn't a very big one this time, I still have to wait a year though!! Actually only 364 days but that will feel like a looong time.
March 12, 2022
Yes. Just Yes.
June 14, 2025
gotta love a binky dilemma
July 2, 2022
So,so,so good. Spent my whole night reading it! Friday is so smart! Within a tingle of a bell, she knows the answer! I rate it 10000000000000/ 10!
March 17, 2022
This book series is my comfort series
I have to say this book was awesome, so glad we got more Binky. I wished there was more Friday+Ian scenes was a bit sad they didn’t really get any romantic scenes even tho I understand this series is more on the middle grade side than YA.
Could tell who the baddies were but loved all the little side problems
Also Binky and Ingrid sooooo cute bro
Just hoping we get more Ian Friday scenes in the next book cause ya know PARIS
I have to say this book was awesome, so glad we got more Binky. I wished there was more Friday+Ian scenes was a bit sad they didn’t really get any romantic scenes even tho I understand this series is more on the middle grade side than YA.
Could tell who the baddies were but loved all the little side problems
Also Binky and Ingrid sooooo cute bro
Just hoping we get more Ian Friday scenes in the next book cause ya know PARIS
May 7, 2022
this is one of my favourite junior fiction series.
i kinda wanted some spies stuff but this book was still good nonetheless.
as per usual, the book is filled with many small mysteries and i kind of miss the italy setting but ah well.
i kinda wanted some spies stuff but this book was still good nonetheless.
as per usual, the book is filled with many small mysteries and i kind of miss the italy setting but ah well.
May 18, 2024
Friday Barnes 10: Undercover marks a triumphant return to the gripping world of detective mysteries crafted by the talented R.A. Spratt. As the tenth installment in the bestselling series, it delivers everything fans have come to expect and more.
From the start, readers are thrust into a whirlwind of adventures with the young detective, Friday Barnes. Spratt masterfully weaves together a tapestry of mystery, suspense, and humour that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
What truly sets Undercover apart in my opinion is its great plot twists and turns. Just when you think you have it all figured out, Spratt expertly pulls the rug out from under you, leaving you guessing until the very end. The pacing is perfect, ensuring that each chapter propels the story forward while leaving readers eager for more.
Of course, no Friday Barnes adventure would be complete without its cast of quirky and memorable characters. From Friday's best friend, to her love interest, every interaction crackles with energy and charm.
Beyond its entertainment value, Undercover also teaches valuable lessons about friendship, courage, and the importance of using one's intellect to overcome challenges. Young readers will find themselves inspired by Friday's unwavering determination and resourcefulness in the face of trouble.
In summary, Friday Barnes 10: Undercover is a book that shows R.A. Spratt's skills as a master storyteller. Whether you're a longtime fan of the series or new to Friday's world of fun, this latest book is guaranteed to delight and captivate everyone.
From the start, readers are thrust into a whirlwind of adventures with the young detective, Friday Barnes. Spratt masterfully weaves together a tapestry of mystery, suspense, and humour that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
What truly sets Undercover apart in my opinion is its great plot twists and turns. Just when you think you have it all figured out, Spratt expertly pulls the rug out from under you, leaving you guessing until the very end. The pacing is perfect, ensuring that each chapter propels the story forward while leaving readers eager for more.
Of course, no Friday Barnes adventure would be complete without its cast of quirky and memorable characters. From Friday's best friend, to her love interest, every interaction crackles with energy and charm.
Beyond its entertainment value, Undercover also teaches valuable lessons about friendship, courage, and the importance of using one's intellect to overcome challenges. Young readers will find themselves inspired by Friday's unwavering determination and resourcefulness in the face of trouble.
In summary, Friday Barnes 10: Undercover is a book that shows R.A. Spratt's skills as a master storyteller. Whether you're a longtime fan of the series or new to Friday's world of fun, this latest book is guaranteed to delight and captivate everyone.
July 5, 2022
I absolutely love this series ♥️
I first began reading these in 2016 when I was 11 so i adored the fact that I was Fridays age. It made everything she did so much more exciting because it enabled me to believe that I could be like her.
Now that I’m 17, I still say that this is my favourite book/series because I’m always going to be buying the books when they are released.
Friday and Ian’s relationship is adorable and is so cute to see how far they’ve come from being ‘nemesis’s’ to their new awkward love. Melanie is also the sweetest, I wish I had a bestie like her <3
My favourite part of these novels are the bits that I learn from them, and the way Friday solves each mystery. The galleries and artefacts that are taught through the story is genuinely so interesting. This series is the reason why I now love mystery books, looking for clues and discovering how Friday could have figured out the culprit is always so cool 🥸
I first began reading these in 2016 when I was 11 so i adored the fact that I was Fridays age. It made everything she did so much more exciting because it enabled me to believe that I could be like her.
Now that I’m 17, I still say that this is my favourite book/series because I’m always going to be buying the books when they are released.
Friday and Ian’s relationship is adorable and is so cute to see how far they’ve come from being ‘nemesis’s’ to their new awkward love. Melanie is also the sweetest, I wish I had a bestie like her <3
My favourite part of these novels are the bits that I learn from them, and the way Friday solves each mystery. The galleries and artefacts that are taught through the story is genuinely so interesting. This series is the reason why I now love mystery books, looking for clues and discovering how Friday could have figured out the culprit is always so cool 🥸
September 4, 2022
R. A. Spratt’s Friday Barnes 10: Undercover is an excellent read. I loved Friday and Ian’s relationship which was adorable. I enjoyed how Ian constantly rescues Friday whenever she is in a sticky situation. Friday and Ian’s relationship is funny and complex. A perfect example of their complicated relationship was seen in the Tundra of Oslo. Within this scene, Friday Is freezing in the snow and Ian is sharing his body heat with his face pressed up against her face. This is seen in the following extract from Page 244 of the novel:
‘Oh,Ian,’ said Friday, through chattering teeth.
‘Thank you for chasing after me.’
‘Across the tundra tonight, or generally in life.’ asked Ian. His face was pressed up against her,trying to share body heat.
‘Both,’ said Friday.
‘It’s okay,’ said Ian.
It’s an amazing read and I highly recommend it to mystery and romance book lovers.
‘Oh,Ian,’ said Friday, through chattering teeth.
‘Thank you for chasing after me.’
‘Across the tundra tonight, or generally in life.’ asked Ian. His face was pressed up against her,trying to share body heat.
‘Both,’ said Friday.
‘It’s okay,’ said Ian.
It’s an amazing read and I highly recommend it to mystery and romance book lovers.
January 17, 2023
This was a fun, fast read with lots of laugh-out-loud moments. The mini mysteries and overall story arc are very clever, and I enjoyed the continued character development. It's fun to see the characters get older and have new experiences, and I appreciate that the author is writing about young adult characters without pushing the series in a typical YA direction in terms of content. There's some kissing and lots of talk about relationships, but this is still appropriate for the original target audience.
Note: This book does mention the nude portrait of a teacher that was an unnecessary and offensive plot point in book #5, and includes some jokes about it again before dropping the subject.
Note: This book does mention the nude portrait of a teacher that was an unnecessary and offensive plot point in book #5, and includes some jokes about it again before dropping the subject.
July 7, 2022
I loved this book, it was absolutely exceptional.
It was jam packed with everything you need romance…crime…comedy and loads more.
I read this in about 2 days but I had a few days off in between. I love all the Friday Barnes books, one reason is because each book has so many mysteries and I love when Friday goes through all the facts and then tells them the culprit. I absolutely can’t wait to read the next book. Thanks Zia Chooky for getting me onto these amazing books.
August 3, 2025
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!
December 4, 2023
Tenth in the series.
I appreciate seeing how Friday and her friends are growing up in this series. I also appreciate how Spratt is handling Friday's PTSD from her false imprisonment. The changes in her character make this series continue to work. She still solves crimes in her unique way but readers see her struggles too. Looking forward to the next book.
I appreciate seeing how Friday and her friends are growing up in this series. I also appreciate how Spratt is handling Friday's PTSD from her false imprisonment. The changes in her character make this series continue to work. She still solves crimes in her unique way but readers see her struggles too. Looking forward to the next book.
August 4, 2024
ANOTHER HIT FROM RA SPRATT 🗣️🗣️🗣️🗣️🗣️
Forgot to say this on the last book but jesus it’s genuinely so jarring (positive) when like 90% of the book is charming light-hearted mystery shenanigans, and then the remaining 10% is a combination of Friday have actual PTSD from previous events in the series + actual high-stakes, life-threatening scenarios that are sure to give Friday even MORE PTSD.
Forgot to say this on the last book but jesus it’s genuinely so jarring (positive) when like 90% of the book is charming light-hearted mystery shenanigans, and then the remaining 10% is a combination of Friday have actual PTSD from previous events in the series + actual high-stakes, life-threatening scenarios that are sure to give Friday even MORE PTSD.
April 23, 2022
I'm dying, I love this SOOOOO MUCH. I have re-read the series so many times because I'm in love. I ship I am and Friday and I have so much joy reading about their romance. loved this one, the best in series
Recommend-10/10
Recommend-10/10
May 8, 2022
series has always been so exciting. looking forward to the next ones :D
July 7, 2022
The feel of nolstagia I receive from this book. Overall was an engaging read and very in character. Ian and Friday melt my little heart. Love it so much.
July 20, 2022
We love RA Spratt at our house but this wasn’t her best storytelling. Entertaining still.
November 18, 2022
live love laugh ian
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews