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Take to the skies in the side-splitting second installment of a middle grade mystery series for fans of A Series of Unfortunate Events and Enola Holmes.
Fresh off recovering a billion-dollar ruby and losing the criminal who stole it, John Boarhog and Inspector Toadius McGee are soaring high on a new adventure. Hoping to intercept the Mauve Moth before they execute their next great heist, Toadius and John book passage on Her Majesty’s Royal Air Armada—a luxury cruise liner airship. But alas, there will be no clear skies ahead. A committee from the Society of Sleuths (S.O.S) is also aboard, ready to put John through his first trial to gain full membership, despite Toadius’s objections.
Furious with his mentor, John falls in with the Hive, a group of kids obsessed with using social media for fame. They see how valuable he is, even if Toadius doesn’t.
But when both the Mauve Moth and Shim-Sham resurface, each with their own nefarious aims, will the detective duo be able to see past their disagreements to, once again, save the day?
The second book in the Curious League of Detectives and Thieves series, S.O.S. is a hilarious, high-flying, heart-pounding mystery adventure readers won’t be able to put down.
Fresh off recovering a billion-dollar ruby and losing the criminal who stole it, John Boarhog and Inspector Toadius McGee are soaring high on a new adventure. Hoping to intercept the Mauve Moth before they execute their next great heist, Toadius and John book passage on Her Majesty’s Royal Air Armada—a luxury cruise liner airship. But alas, there will be no clear skies ahead. A committee from the Society of Sleuths (S.O.S) is also aboard, ready to put John through his first trial to gain full membership, despite Toadius’s objections.
Furious with his mentor, John falls in with the Hive, a group of kids obsessed with using social media for fame. They see how valuable he is, even if Toadius doesn’t.
But when both the Mauve Moth and Shim-Sham resurface, each with their own nefarious aims, will the detective duo be able to see past their disagreements to, once again, save the day?
The second book in the Curious League of Detectives and Thieves series, S.O.S. is a hilarious, high-flying, heart-pounding mystery adventure readers won’t be able to put down.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published August 1, 2023
7 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
About the author
Tom Phillips
3 books58 followersAs a dyslexic child, Tom Phillips eagerly listened to any story his mom or older sister would tell him. Today, he writes books that kids can not only enjoy on their own, but also can be read aloud and shared. Tom employs his passion for storytelling as an artist and video editor in Los Angeles, California. His work includes editing for the acclaimed LeVar Burton Kids, and he is currently at work on a screenplay for a major studio. An armchair detective and Sherlockian, he is an obsessive watcher of crime dramas. Tom can often be found walking his dog, Dr. Watson, with his wife Autumn.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
August 25, 2023
This was a whirlwind of a ride. If you loved the chaos of the first book, then get ready because it gets even bigger in this one! I absolutely loved the world building in this book. The story takes place on a flying ship in the sky! So you bet all the characters had questions on how to stay safe while so high up.
We continue the story of John and Toadius. John really wants be be apart of the S.O.S. and he's finally been given his first case to prove himself, but it's not the case he wants and he keeps getting himself into a whole lot of trouble. But luckily he finds some new friends along the way to help him get in and out of trouble. And not to mention some other really great new supporting characters in this book I also really adored :)
The heart of this book is really about loving yourself as you are, knowing you are ENOUGH and to trust those around you, like your parents, are just trying to help you in the best way they know how to help you navigate life.
Based on how the book ended, I am VERY nervous and excited for the next book. Who can be trusted?!
Also I listened to this on audiobook. The narrator is the same one as the first and he does a fantastic job really bringing all the characters and story to life!
We continue the story of John and Toadius. John really wants be be apart of the S.O.S. and he's finally been given his first case to prove himself, but it's not the case he wants and he keeps getting himself into a whole lot of trouble. But luckily he finds some new friends along the way to help him get in and out of trouble. And not to mention some other really great new supporting characters in this book I also really adored :)
The heart of this book is really about loving yourself as you are, knowing you are ENOUGH and to trust those around you, like your parents, are just trying to help you in the best way they know how to help you navigate life.
Based on how the book ended, I am VERY nervous and excited for the next book. Who can be trusted?!
Also I listened to this on audiobook. The narrator is the same one as the first and he does a fantastic job really bringing all the characters and story to life!
August 20, 2023
I consider it a rare and incredible feat when an author delivers a sequel that is even better than his/her debut, and that’s exactly what Tom Phillips did with S.O.S.!
A literal sky-floating cruise ship, the return of favorite friends and arch nemeses, and an introduction to new friends and new enemies all await readers on this treacherous trip through the clouds. The hijinks, humor, and trials of Toadius and John made this a well-paced page turner, perfect for reluctant readers (just like its predecessor).
While I (still) loved the way Phillips showed a complex John, his many emotions, and his unabashed nature with those emotions, my favorite “John” moments came from two very different scenarios:
-the way John spoke up for those who are often overlooked and taken advantage of and
-the way John interacted with his new friends, specifically Wembley and Kana
Should we have more books that show tweens being accountable for their own actions, messes, and mistakes, including those with interactions toward adults like S.O.S did? Um, YES, please! Middle grade authors, take note of this.
And speaking of tweens, I love a good ensemble cast, especially where the characters bring out the best in (or challenge) their friends. Phillips more than delivered with the newly formed trio! How refreshing to see the female character being the physically strongest one! Let’s go, Kana!
I cannot wait for the final installment of this series to see how it all comes together, but in the meantime, I take such comfort in knowing that John has even more friends and family now to look out for him no matter how his tale may end.
Onward to the jungles of South America!
A literal sky-floating cruise ship, the return of favorite friends and arch nemeses, and an introduction to new friends and new enemies all await readers on this treacherous trip through the clouds. The hijinks, humor, and trials of Toadius and John made this a well-paced page turner, perfect for reluctant readers (just like its predecessor).
While I (still) loved the way Phillips showed a complex John, his many emotions, and his unabashed nature with those emotions, my favorite “John” moments came from two very different scenarios:
-the way John spoke up for those who are often overlooked and taken advantage of and
-the way John interacted with his new friends, specifically Wembley and Kana
Should we have more books that show tweens being accountable for their own actions, messes, and mistakes, including those with interactions toward adults like S.O.S did? Um, YES, please! Middle grade authors, take note of this.
And speaking of tweens, I love a good ensemble cast, especially where the characters bring out the best in (or challenge) their friends. Phillips more than delivered with the newly formed trio! How refreshing to see the female character being the physically strongest one! Let’s go, Kana!
I cannot wait for the final installment of this series to see how it all comes together, but in the meantime, I take such comfort in knowing that John has even more friends and family now to look out for him no matter how his tale may end.
Onward to the jungles of South America!
July 30, 2023
Oh I loved this one as much as the first and maybe even more! It was like a magic trick from beginning to end and I loved it! It has all the heart and humour and wit from the first book and then builds on the characters and the larger plot line that you don’t even know is coming until the very end. Masterful!
All of my favourite characters were back and added some new ones too! I was happily rewarded with a brief appearance by my favourite waitress from Patty’s Pancake Palace and I squealed a little when she did. I loved Wembley and his ice cream sammies and what a great and supportive friend he was for John. I was happy to see the Great Goatinee-nee-nee-nee again as well and loved April and him together.
There was so much zany action throughout and hints and clues dropped to the mystery that was unfolding but they weren’t so obvious and some were leading you sneakily astray. I loved the scene where John enters the ballroom for the first dinner and it is so different than he expected. Toadius came alive in that scene and I could perfectly picture the spotlights and tension in the air. Chef’s kiss! The whole concept of a flying cruise ship is amazing and inventive and led to some intense and hilarious moments.
When John felt it was all revealed and then plot twist it takes another turn I was super surprised. I didn’t see that whole last part coming at all and loved that. It’s hard to surprise me so when it happens it’s like extra special. The ending was perfect but ahhh I need to know what happens!?! I was left hoping simultaneously that I get to find out everything that happens in the next book and also that I don’t and there will be many more of this series with more wacky and hilarious adventures with John and Toadius and their wild and wacky group of friends, family and thieves.
I received an early ebook of this book from Edelweiss and the publisher in exchange for my honest review. I am very happy they let me have a sneak peek at this wonderful book!
All of my favourite characters were back and added some new ones too! I was happily rewarded with a brief appearance by my favourite waitress from Patty’s Pancake Palace and I squealed a little when she did. I loved Wembley and his ice cream sammies and what a great and supportive friend he was for John. I was happy to see the Great Goatinee-nee-nee-nee again as well and loved April and him together.
There was so much zany action throughout and hints and clues dropped to the mystery that was unfolding but they weren’t so obvious and some were leading you sneakily astray. I loved the scene where John enters the ballroom for the first dinner and it is so different than he expected. Toadius came alive in that scene and I could perfectly picture the spotlights and tension in the air. Chef’s kiss! The whole concept of a flying cruise ship is amazing and inventive and led to some intense and hilarious moments.
When John felt it was all revealed and then plot twist it takes another turn I was super surprised. I didn’t see that whole last part coming at all and loved that. It’s hard to surprise me so when it happens it’s like extra special. The ending was perfect but ahhh I need to know what happens!?! I was left hoping simultaneously that I get to find out everything that happens in the next book and also that I don’t and there will be many more of this series with more wacky and hilarious adventures with John and Toadius and their wild and wacky group of friends, family and thieves.
I received an early ebook of this book from Edelweiss and the publisher in exchange for my honest review. I am very happy they let me have a sneak peek at this wonderful book!
November 26, 2024
Read the first one with my boys (ages 7 and 12) and they loved it so much, we immediately went to the second book. This is a brilliant series. Any child would love them, but selfishly, as the mother of boys, I love the way that masculinity and becoming a man is portrayed. It created a conversation with my older son and I about social media and "real friends". I can't recommend this series enough.
August 6, 2023
Another journey into adventure! Loved the first book and loved the second book, too!
July 21, 2023
Fun adventures await inside this gem of a story about John Tandem Boarhog! John is on an airship with his guardian. If he can find the Mauve Moth and his monkey Shim-sham maybe just maybe the SOS will grant him membership. It's zany fun for the reader. You will get so wrapped up in this story. Thanks #Netgalley and #Pixel+Ink for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are mine.
May 11, 2024
I love this series! If I'm not laughing myself to tears, I'm tearing up from tender moments between John and his chosen family and friends. A great mystery adventure, and that ending! I don't know whether or not to read it as hopeful or ominous! There are so many things still left to discover!
Book 3 can't come out soon enough!
Book 3 can't come out soon enough!
May 31, 2023
I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher for my honest opinion.
John Boarhog and Inspector Toadius McGee are on another case as they search for the thief Mauve Moth, and Shim-Sham, the world’s best criminal mastermind who also happens to be a monkey. In full honesty, I did not get a chance to read the first book in this series, but I still loved it anyway. It really did remind of A Series of Unfortunate Events, without the looming sadness and all the cooky, crazy, hilarious fun. The Narrator is entertaining, John is relatable, Toadius is the silliest and coolest guardian, and League is ridiculously fun and I would totally try to join. A wonderful second book that made me want to go out and get the first one. Great for reluctant readers or those that just want to have a good adventure.
John Boarhog and Inspector Toadius McGee are on another case as they search for the thief Mauve Moth, and Shim-Sham, the world’s best criminal mastermind who also happens to be a monkey. In full honesty, I did not get a chance to read the first book in this series, but I still loved it anyway. It really did remind of A Series of Unfortunate Events, without the looming sadness and all the cooky, crazy, hilarious fun. The Narrator is entertaining, John is relatable, Toadius is the silliest and coolest guardian, and League is ridiculously fun and I would totally try to join. A wonderful second book that made me want to go out and get the first one. Great for reluctant readers or those that just want to have a good adventure.
June 8, 2023
Tom Phillips does it again in this brilliant, fun, zany, wild, romp. Aboard a cruise ship in the sky how much shenanigans can happen? A whole lot. Kids (and kids at heart) will absolutely love this action packed adventure.
The Pixar of middle grade fiction this is an absolute must read series!
The Pixar of middle grade fiction this is an absolute must read series!
July 17, 2023
** “Please be careful in your decisions. Life is a chess game, and you must weigh out all the moves before playing.” **
Tom Phillips’ second installment of his Curious League of Detectives and Thieves series, “S.O.S.,” is another fun and zany story.
John Randel Boarhog is attempting to join the S.O.S. — the Society of Sleuths — with the mentorship of his guardian Toadius McGee. As they board a cruise ship in the sky, they are determined to find two stowaways — the elusive Mauve Moth and a feisty capuchin named Shim-Sham.
Perhaps if John can find these two stowaways, S.O.S. will finally officially grant him membership. And as he steps out of his comfort zone, he just might finally make some friends too.
Phillips once again delivers a fun and twisty adventure, a story of courage and determination. He creates some great characters, and includes some good themes, like every decision has consequences; it doesn’t matter what others think as long as you believe in and love yourself; everyone deserves second chances; and do everything in your power to make the world a better place.
“S.O.S.,” which is due out Aug. 1, will appeal to fans of books by Lemony Snicket, James Patterson’s “Treasure Hunters” series, Trenton Lee Stewart’s “Mysterious Benedict Society” series, and books like “Clara Poole and the Long Way Round” by Taylor Tyng, “The Sinister Secrets of Singe” by Sean Ferrell and “The Jules Verne Prophecy” by Larry Schwarz and Iva-Marie Palmer.
Five stars out of five.
Pixel+Ink provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.
Tom Phillips’ second installment of his Curious League of Detectives and Thieves series, “S.O.S.,” is another fun and zany story.
John Randel Boarhog is attempting to join the S.O.S. — the Society of Sleuths — with the mentorship of his guardian Toadius McGee. As they board a cruise ship in the sky, they are determined to find two stowaways — the elusive Mauve Moth and a feisty capuchin named Shim-Sham.
Perhaps if John can find these two stowaways, S.O.S. will finally officially grant him membership. And as he steps out of his comfort zone, he just might finally make some friends too.
Phillips once again delivers a fun and twisty adventure, a story of courage and determination. He creates some great characters, and includes some good themes, like every decision has consequences; it doesn’t matter what others think as long as you believe in and love yourself; everyone deserves second chances; and do everything in your power to make the world a better place.
“S.O.S.,” which is due out Aug. 1, will appeal to fans of books by Lemony Snicket, James Patterson’s “Treasure Hunters” series, Trenton Lee Stewart’s “Mysterious Benedict Society” series, and books like “Clara Poole and the Long Way Round” by Taylor Tyng, “The Sinister Secrets of Singe” by Sean Ferrell and “The Jules Verne Prophecy” by Larry Schwarz and Iva-Marie Palmer.
Five stars out of five.
Pixel+Ink provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.
January 1, 2024
If you liked the first book then get ready for a wild ride in the newest installment of The Curious League of Detectives and Thieves, S.O.S.. Tom Phillips has outdone himself with this new, heartwarming, zany, shenanigan-filled addition to the growing series.
I love how Phillips portrays the ever growing relationship of John and Toadius. But, my favorite part, or should I say parts, of the book are the new ensemble of characters that are introduced. From Wembley and Kana to Claudia and Dirk, the new cast of characters adds even more to relate to.
I would highly recommend this book to Middle Grade lovers of mystery, thrill, and overall hilarious-ness and anybody in between!
I love how Phillips portrays the ever growing relationship of John and Toadius. But, my favorite part, or should I say parts, of the book are the new ensemble of characters that are introduced. From Wembley and Kana to Claudia and Dirk, the new cast of characters adds even more to relate to.
I would highly recommend this book to Middle Grade lovers of mystery, thrill, and overall hilarious-ness and anybody in between!
August 7, 2023
The perfect second installment of the Curious League of Detectives and Thieves series, Phillips has created another laugh-out-loud journey of friendship, love, and found family. Continuing the super fun partnership of Toadius (still one of my favorite book characters ever!) and John, this story takes us on a cruise ship in the sky and a continued search for the Mauve Moth, Shim Sham, and more. Action packed, fast paced, and as perfectly over-the-top as the first, this is a must read for all MG adventure/mystery lovers.
August 15, 2023
My kids (ages 6, 8, and 10) loved this one as well! We finished this afternoon and they were asking when the third was going to come out, then proceeded to do detective work for the rest of the day. So much humor, heart and wonderful life lessons, with vibrant characters who you can’t help but love!
September 7, 2023
The adventures of John and Toadius are equal parts humor and heart. I loved the fantastical setting of this second installment, as well as all the unique characters - some familiar faces, others new faces I quickly grew to love. The author does an amazing job of weaving multiple mysteries into one story, and I already can’t wait for the third book to see what’s in store next for John and Toadius!
November 3, 2023
Having solved and recovered from their last mystery, Inspector Toadius McGee and his protege John Boarhog board the H.M.R.A.S Bouteille on her maiden voyage and soon find themselves involved in another mystery and John's test to actually join the S.O.S. But it won't be an easy test for John as he struggles to meet the challenges that lay ahead while seeking answers about his past.
November 25, 2023
A twisty, turny middle grade mystery filled with frenetic fun. It feels old-fashioned, with a steampunk vibe, but the characters are straight from the 2020s. At times the plot stretches belief but that's part of the fun. I look forward to John's next adventure with The Curious League of Detectives and Thieves.
August 18, 2023
The bar was set high for this whimsical series with Egypt’s Fire, but I think Tom Phillips accomplished what sequels rarely do… I dare say it was better than the first book! I’m angry I have to wait so long for the third.
June 29, 2025
This is a story of peer pressure and true friendship while trying to catch a fugitive monkey.
The only thing I don't like is that in the first book, Toadius outright refuses that he's John's father when John found a picture of him and his mom, now in book two, he takes it back.
The only thing I don't like is that in the first book, Toadius outright refuses that he's John's father when John found a picture of him and his mom, now in book two, he takes it back.
July 2, 2024
John goes on a luxury airship and meets kids his age. Some are real friends and others aren’t. John succeeds in joining the sleuths. Clever storytelling and voice.
July 7, 2024
Good middle grade book. TW, a side character jumps off a building to their death.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2024
love the duo
Great story full of fun and crazy moments that I enjoyed. Toadies and John set out on a sky ship adventure and come away with more than they bargained for!
Great story full of fun and crazy moments that I enjoyed. Toadies and John set out on a sky ship adventure and come away with more than they bargained for!
August 6, 2023
Two 10-year olds here. This is the sequels to Egypt’s Fire. The same cast of characters is back and this adventure is even more fun than the last one.
It takes place on an air cruise ship! We loved that. These books are definitely worth the read and we can’t wait for the 3rd Curious League of Detectives and Thieves book, The Peruvian Express!
See our full review here: https://youtu.be/OkmdId4FyZE
It takes place on an air cruise ship! We loved that. These books are definitely worth the read and we can’t wait for the 3rd Curious League of Detectives and Thieves book, The Peruvian Express!
See our full review here: https://youtu.be/OkmdId4FyZE
February 19, 2024
This is another zany, hilarious page-turner in the Curious League series! This time, John Boarhog and Inspector Toadius McGee are on a cruise ship up in the sky! This story includes more madcap adventures and fast-paced events that will leave readers of all ages laughing out loud, and it also incorporates important positive thematic elements of friendship, found family, and accountability for one's actions, such an important thing to get young readers thinking about. Can't wait for the third installment in this wacky, wonderful mystery series!
August 28, 2023
SOS finds John and Todias aboard a cruise ship in the sky, searching for two stowaways to gain membership into the Society of Sluethes. Like the first in the series, SOS is an absolute page-turner, with each madcap leg of the journey falling into the next. And, of course, this offering doesn't disappoint when it comes to laughs or thought-provoking themes, encouraging young readers to believe in themselves and find ways to leave the world better than they found it. Super excited for the third installment--can't wait to see what Tom Phillips has in store for John and Todias next!
August 5, 2023
The perfect second installment of the Curious League of Detectives and Thieves series, Phillips has created another laugh-out-loud journey of friendship, love, and found family. Continuing the super fun partnership of Toadius (still one of my favorite book characters ever!) and John, this story takes us on a cruise ship in the sky and a continued search for the Mauve Moth, Shim Sham, and more. Action packed, fast paced, and as perfectly over-the-top as the first, this is a must read for all MG adventure/mystery lovers.
August 13, 2023
The first book was a great introduction to the world of the Curious League of Detectives and Thieves, but this sequel takes it sky high. Literally, as it takes place on an airship! John has a lot more responsibilities this time around, but the whimsy and fun from the first book is expanded tenfold. I love this series! It's so much fun!
June 29, 2025
This book is fun and clever. 3.5*
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews