Tessa and the TSLR Detective Agency are back on the case for a sleuthy summer adventure…
The basketball team’s State Championship trophy is missing!
Teen super sleuth Tessa Wright and her TSLR Detective Agency are determined to bring the trophy home before eighth grade starts in the fall. At first glance, it should be easy, especially with the crime caught on video. But you could have knocked them over with a feather when the perpetrator is disguised as Greeneville Heights’ own Falcon mascot!
It's not like Tessa’s detective dad and the trusted Greeneville police force can swoop in to help. They’re too swamped with a relentless string of downtown break-ins, crippling local businesses.
The Falcon isn’t the only mystery circling Tessa’s head. It’s boys—specifically adorable emerald-eyed Mason Greene. Hanging out during summer vacation is a blast, but is it just as friends? Tessa is resolved to find out in the most sleuthy way possible: by putting Mason under her magnifying glass!
When she’s not training for the upcoming cross-country season, Tessa and her spunky new kitten cool off poolside. With so many suspects hovering, the case heats up. Instead of winging it, Tessa calls on her friends to investigate what connects them all. As the summer flies by and their carefree days are numbered, they must bring the trophy back to its rightful place in the case.
Growing up immersed in beloved “Teen” novels, award-winning author Kelly Swan Taylor now crafts her own sweet stories that bridge the gap between middle grade (MG) and young adult (YA) fiction. From friendship adventures to chilling mysteries and thrillers, all with a sporty twist and a dash of romance, her contemporary novels ignite the imagination while championing the everyday hero.
I received this book from the author in exchange of an honest review.
First up, thank you again to the author for allowing me to read another book of yours, this time the second book in the Wright Detective Series!
Second, let’s get to the review! Because I had tons of fun reading the book, so much was happening and I love how everything came together, but still left one thing open for the next book. The case of the break-ins. I already had a suspicion that this one wouldn’t be solved in this book, at least not entirely. Because there is already plenty in this book! I am happy that the case did get some of the spotlight, but didn’t take it all. The main focusses in this book are Mason (does he like Tessa or not), Trophy Case, some smaller cases, Cam and Tessa’s family, Cross country team try outs. As you see, plenty! Plus, there are also some tinier bits. Which I all loved.
The biggest thing was the Trophy Case. The previous book ended that someone had stolen the newest basketball trophy. But who has done it? And why? I just had so much fun with this case. Following Tessa around town, see her talk to people and make my own list with suspects and more. In the end I did guess it just a bit before Tessa did. But I can tell you that the author doesn’t make it very easy. It is still a very fun mystery. With plenty of suspects and motives. You just have to find that one connection. That one thing. And then things click. I absolutely love that Tessa’s dad gave her full reign on the mystery. He and his team were busy with other things (like the break-ins) so if Tessa wanted to solve the Trophy Case, she could go ahead. Of course, if she kept telling him what she found and more.
One of the bigger things that book focussed about was Mason x Tessa. Tessa really likes Mason.. but does Mason like her? I just loved this part because it reminded me of myself when I was that age. Unsure about what boys meant. Unsure what those feelings are that I feel in my tummy and head. I could definitely relate. And so I was rooting for Tessa and wished I could step in to tell her that he did like her. That he was just also awkward about it and not sure how to bring it. I loved seeing them go out together, drink and eat some yummy foods, talk, and there are several big moments. I had a laugh at Tessa’s experiment to make sure about Mason’s feelings. XD That was adorable! I am so happy that these two managed to figure things out!
And of course the other girls are also with their boys and drama. I loved that we didn’t just see Tessa, but also get to see/read about the other girls.
I also love love reading about the running. Not much track this time. But we get plenty of cross country running. Tessa is training for a 5K run and for the try-outs with the cross country team. I just love seeing her being so dedicated and run so much.
We also read how it is going now with Cam in the house. Well. We see that things aren’t going so well. Cam is crying a lot. Tessa and her parents are going bonkers. We see that tension is getting higher and higher and sometimes arguments and fights happen. I was very happy with the addition of Hanna, she was just a dream and perfect for Tessa’s family. She was really a saviour for them. Being able to take away some of the tension and stress. Have the family relax just a bit more. I loved to learn a bit more about her and where she came from. Loved seeing her make food. Love how sweet she was with the family. And I am also glad that the parents understood that Tessa was just not always happy. Didn’t go angry on her, and if they did snap a bit they made sure to talk and say sorry. I love this family.
I wasn’t sure about Nick. I mean, I am glad that things settled and he focussed on Riley, but I was a bit worried at first that this one would turn into some love triangle. Because of how he was constantly around Tessa and kinda flirting with her.
I absolutely love reading about the cats. Seeing their names, reading about how they are doing and how they are growing up. Laughing at Sherlocks (Tessa’s cat) antics. I am so happy to see the cats happy and save. That they got some good homes!
In my review for the last book I said there just needed to be more mystery. Well, I can tell you, we get plenty of mystery in this one! Skilfully entwined with many other things. I just loved seeing Tessa (but also the other girls) try to solve the Trophy Case mystery but also having fun doing some other mysteries. And then there is the break-in mystery that also gets a bit of the spotlight at times. There was plenty of mystery and I was in for it. Thanks to the author!
Phew, well, I could probably go on and on about this book, it was just so much fun! I will stop at this here and just end with that I would highly recommend this book to everyone. I had tons of fun and there is a great balance between all the plot points. I cannot wait to read the next book! I want to see what is up with those break-ins (are my hunches correct?).
This sequel continued with the giving me some of the feelings I remember the Babysitters Club gave me growing up. Such wholesome enjoyable reads. Tessa was a little better in this, but not much. Her new sibling is here, & she acts like she can't stand him. She even yells in his face to shut up at one point. Her poor tired, run down parents(who she helps out in no way shape or form) apologize to HER for this & more still. She has to leave her huge canopy bed to "escape" to her huge treehouse (that is described like it's a small apartment)to get away from her new sibling-poor thing. Ugh. ANYWAY, lol loved the mystery of this one, & how it all wrapped up.(I’m worried this comes off too harsh, but I’m just giving my honest review. She infuriated me. But don’t get it wrong, other than that I loved these mystery reads.) I actually didn't know whodunnit. Tessa's friends, & her adorable crush, are still the best in here. Had an overall great time with this one. Hopefully in the 3rd book Tessa will have better growth. Beautiful cover by Michael Borkowski too.💜
In the 2nd installment of this series we pick up almost immediately where we left off. The TSLR Detective Agency is determined to find the missing trophy. Meanwhile Riley is still coming to terms with her parents divorce, Leah is knee deep in giving her room a major makeover while being enamored by the guy at the hardware store, Skylar has turned her interest from boys to music and Tessa is mulling over her invitation to try out for the 8th grade cross country team over the summer and in a stunning turn of events the agency has voted to allow boys in the treehouse. Meanwhile an over arching and increasingly sinister series of events is trying the whole town's nerves with local businesses being broken into with increasing frequency and even resulting in injury to Tessa's hair dresser Sue Ann. All this while Tessa and Mason try to navigate through their blossoming relationship. There is a lot going on here and the character's seemingly mature and grow in front of our very eyes. This one is a page turner you wont be able to put down!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Book two of The Wright Detective did not disappoint!
Tessa and the gang are back with yet another head scratching case and this time there may be more than one mystery to solve. Filled with more of those hard hitting topics, the readers are taken along as Tessa adjusts to her new baby brother, getting outside her comfort zone with cross-country training, and of course boy troubles. With the same lovable cast as book one and some fun new side characters, we’re taken along not only the main case of the missing trophy but several side mysteries as well (stolen skateboards and mysterious mascot identity)!
This is shaping up to be one of the best bridge of middle-grade and YA series since the original Nancy Drew. Beautiful chapter illustrations paired with characters you can’t help but relate to no matter your age. Be sure to catch up on book one first (while this could be read as a stand-alone you really don’t want to miss the excitement in book one) and see if you can solve the mystery before Tessa and the gang!
I don't know where to start, but this book was so different from what I usually read a mystery but teenager vibes kind of book which at first I was hesitant but for sure I enjoyed the vibes of it, after a year full of books I needed this chill books to end the year with, nothing too much but enjoyable also refreshing to be able to start a new year and for sure that what I needed, loved the whole story and how was it built, and for sure I cannot forget saying that I learned few things first what friendship means and how it is important to have the correct type of people around you cz they are your circle of support and you can't choose the wrong person, and I learned one important thing that is to follow my goal with no hesitation and to trust my intuition cz they can't be wrong and just keep going on no matter what even with all the risks I can for sure reach wherever I want, so for sure it was a fresh enjoyable book, thanks kelly for giving me the chance to read your book.
Let's move to the story, as Tessa and her detective agency decided to bring the basketball team trophy home as it was stolen from the last game, the story goes on when she is trying to figure out who stole the trophy things get more complicated as there were too many suspects and too many things to think about especially that now the school mascot was involved in the story who wore that and how they were able to take it and what is the deal with Dunbar delivery and how they are related to both the stolen trophy and it the crimes that started to happen in her town and how much she was worried for all the places that were burglarized, she had too many things on her mind but for sure there was one relief that there was this boy mason that she started to like who had supported her during the investigation she had and how many troubles he went for her just to solve the case , they were so sweet couple that make you know what love at younge age means and how they start to think about love and boys, and we cannot forget that the story it wasn't only about the mystery it was also about her trying to win the running championship again and how her persistence lead her to her great place and how her friends that were just there for her during the whole process, well you need to read to know the ending and who stole the case and who won the champion ship , cz if i started to talk now it would be so hard for me to stop from writing the whole story now.
Let's move to the characters Tessa the strongest character you can ever see she is a goal getter and so focused on everything that happens around her that's why you can see her solving all of these cases that come across her, also while running the finishing line is all she can see and she has to finish it no matter what, and she really trains from her heart, her family is her priority and fir sure her dad is her fav I'm actually his fan though he is so cute and just a character loved him, she is so sweet as you can see her so caring around her friends and how much she wants to help all of them no matter what there is, she has to be there for them, and how she deals with boys, especially Mason. I wanna say she is really amazing as she know when to apologize for her mistakes which is amazing.
Mason, omg the cutest man ever and the guy you can relay on so many times with no worrying the one who listen well and do everything he can do to make his gf happy and make the right thing happens, he stands close whenever you need help talk always the right things at the right time, never hesitate but takes his time to do things correctly, just perfect type of boyfriend.
her friends omg they were all amazing Riley and her problems with her family and how much pain she goes through and how she falls in love with her partner in running was so sweet and how close they are to each other, and all the other girls that are just so unique in a way Skyler, nick, and all the bad characters that i also loved without evil characters you can't really enjoy the good, I have one thing that got me confused too many names so if i was mistaken with any name plz forgive me so everyone in this book has taught me something that evil can't last forever and you will punished no matter what and how school spirit is something important, also how to be strong in all situations I might go through I just need to keep going on and live with it until i can solve it well .
So at the end, i really loved the book it was just so refreshing and informative and reminded me of what life had been like during school which is smth so amazing i miss having friends around, doing many things having fun, and laughing..
Another mystery solved for the TSLR agency, it was their biggest case yet and the perfect end to book 1! I loved how the author has ended the book 2 , without spoiling for anyone I can say "I NEED BOOK 3 ASAP!! "
The Trophy case is about the missing Trophy of the Greenville's basketball team, the security cameras show none other than Greenville's mascot and the mystery gets deeper because only a few chosen ones know who the mascot is!! The book takes a dive into the abyss when there are break-ins, I absolutely love plot within a plot and this was just the right amount of distraction from the main elements to develop the plot even further without giving too much away!
This book is definitely one of the best mysteries that one could buy for a teenager whom you're trying to get to read it has the right amount of character development and mystery rolled into one and the (w)right attitude that kids can adapt and idolize 😜, I absolutely loved the characters as is usual with Kelly's characters, the plot was well developed, the the writing style is elegant and easy, the cover is gorgeous and the title is obvious to what's going on inside which is something of an attractive element in itself! The book is something every Nancy Drew lover will love and if you're looking for a nostalgic and mysterious book then this book has everything you need!!
A school dance ended with the basketball team's State Championship trophy disappearance...
It's summertime, and Tessa Wright and her friends are trying to find a trophy before 8th grade begins. However, Tessa has a lot going on in her life. She needs to adjust to having a new baby brother, Cam, and solve the mystery called Mason Greene. On top of all that, her father is dealing with several burglary cases in town. Can Tessa manage to get her life in order despite all these challenges?
It's been quite some time since I read The Wright Detective series, and reading the second book was a delightful experience. The plot was intricately woven with many unexpected twists and turns, keeping me on the edge of my seat.
Tessa, the main protagonist, was as sharp and sleuthy as ever. However, her treatment of Cam, a character in the story, seemed harsh. Despite his occasional loudness, I found him cute and endearing. Mason, another character in the book, plays an integral role in supporting Tessa throughout the story. Additionally, Tessa's friends played a significant part in the events unfolding.
I recommend this book to The Wright Detective series fans and anyone who loves a good mystery novel. The writing style is engaging, and the story is suspenseful, making it a perfect page-turner.
Happy Reading, Paige ❤️ 📚
Thank you, @kellyswantaylor, for sharing this great book with me. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Trophy Case the second book in the Wright Detective Series a fun, witty, charming, mysterious, relatable, and engaging! This book is recommended for ages 10 to 16! It is an appropriate yet highly engaging read for those young kids who are reading well above their grade level. As a member of the two time winning state championship track team Tessa Wright can't get the missing boy's basketball championship trophy out of her mind. Seeing a trophy in the display case is an amazing feeling and the fact that basketball team's trophy got stolen isn't right. Tessa makes it her summer mission to solve the mystery of the missing trophy before 8th grade starts. Tessa and her fabulous group of friends eventually take on case together. The friendship and mystery aspect in this book is amazing. However, cracking the case with her friends isn't the only thing on Tessa's mind. Tessa struggles to answer if crush is hanging out with her as friends this summer or if he likes her too? These two mysteries have her head spinning! This series is fantastic and something I wish was around when I was at that hard transition age!
Wright Detective Book #2: The Trophy Case by Kelly Swan Taylor
Although i didn't read Book #1, it was easy to fall right in step with Tessa Wright, Greenville Heights super sleuth detective and 8th grader as she gets right on the case after a basketball trophy is stolen from the glass case in the front of the school. This book is a perfect read for anyone between the ages of 12-14 as it contains a strong heap of teenage romance and drama mixed in with the mystery.
Taylor writes with ease the story of Tessa and her friends. As a long time Nancy Drew fan, i enjoyed the way the book was written in the style of Nancy Drew without stealing those original page-turners thunder.
"But like the masked perpertrator, this case was cloaked in darkness."
Thank you @kellyswantaylor for the opportunity to get to know your town of Greenville Heights and its many mysteries. Best of luck with your writing and with Link Press
The Trophy Case is book two of the Wright Detective series featuring our heroine Tessa Wright, and her friends, Skylar, Leah, and Riley.
The early teens head up their own detective agency, the TSLR Detective Agency. With a natural penchant for sleuthing, they are on the case once more to delve into a missing basketball championship trophy. All, while coping with family changes, friendship, and boys! I remember the very same topics being the focus of my attention as a teen. Gone are the carefree days and now you are more aware of those tough topics. I think the author does a great job of illustrating such growth with her characters!
I love the genuine mystery and there were two of them here. But it leaves you wanting more! Which is a good thing. I'm looking forward to more adventures from the TSLR Detectives!
Big thanks to LibraryThing and the author, Kelly Swan Taylor for an advanced read!
Tessa Wright is an excellent teen detective following in her father's footsteps. I liked this book even better than the first book because we see Tessa involve her team of friends into the mystery solving. Kelly Swan Taylor has created a super sleuthy series with unique characters and strong friendships. I especially enjoyed moments when she quickly solves "side cases" and checks them off the list. Her character is perceptive and smart, but still a teen going through life and challenges like having a baby brother. I love her developing love interest, Mason, and how they figure out if they are friends or can pass into boyfriend/girlfriend status. Very cute story, well-written, love the mystery, and how she involves Mason in the case. He's just as smart as her! I love their teamwork. Great book, can't wait to read Book 3.
This is a well written book. It tells about how somebody stole the championship trophy for the boys basketball team and how Tessa and her detective agency go about finding the ones who took it and returning it safe and sound to the trophy case at her middle school.
This writers style held my attention and is a fabulous detective story!!! I love the way the author solves a mystery and often leaves the end open for another book to possibility come.
I recommend this for middle school, YA and adults alike.
This book will be going into our Little Free Library for others in the community to enjoy :-)
Another fun, sleuthy read from the TSLR girls! Picking up right where The Mysterious Locker Notes left off, Tessa is back on the case during summer vacation. This is the third of Swan Taylor's books I've read and so far my favorite. TWD #2 is the perfect blend of a modern story with a nostalgic core–text messages hand-in-hand with bicycle deliveries. It's a wonderful combination, making it relatable for readers of all ages. As with the previous Link Press books, this one is age–appropriate with sneaky humor and plenty of snacks. Recommended for all ages!
Yes to the super sleuth Tessa! The suspense in this book absolutely brought out my inner sleuth. I love Tessa's inquisitiveness. The closeness among the friends is unmatched, and the supporting characters are all interesting and unique in their own ways. Definite squad goals! #TeamMessa... I love Mason, he's such a little gentleman
Ps: I need a TSLR badge, Tessa! Lol
Overall, the story was superb and a genuine page-turner. Recommend for all ages, who doesn't enjoy a little mystery?
Quote: " I'm looking for the big bang theory kind of vibe." Yes, Girl! Me too!
I was excited to get an advanced copy and share my review. First, I was immediately drawn to the cover. The author put together what I consider a classic, teen fiction read for this second book of the series. I am a huge fan of Nancy Drew style books and immediately felt the nostalgia with this book. I’m in my 30s and haven’t read any books about teen life in many years, but I could not put this book down. Phenomenal job Kelly!
I received this book from the author in exchange of an honest review I really enjoyed this book, and I am glad I read it. I loved how the story unfolded and did not mind that it was a short read. My favorite character in this book was the cat. I also loved how the book ended.
The second book was just as incredible as the first one!! I am constantly captivated by both the mysteries as well as the middle schoolers and what they have going on in their lives! Being honest, I cared more about the "adult" mystery in this one over the trophy being missing, but it was such a cute read that I couldn't put it down anyway!!