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simsbrarian's review against another edition
3.0
Cute. The style of writing which is the book version of a movie/show constantly breaking the "fourth wall" was really endearing and made this a fast, fun read. Cass and Max-Ernest are interesting enough characters who I wouldn't mind reading about again but so much DIDN'T happen in this book that by the end it felt like a lot of set up for a series instead of a book on its own merit. Still, worth the read. I loved the brief touches on Egyptology and really enjoyed the Synthesia inclusion!
beenieweenieliv's review against another edition
4.0
Excited to revisit this series! Leaves a bit to be desired reading again as an adult
billyravecyrus's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
I’m re-reading this series. I remember reading the first two books as a kid, and reading some of the third one. I’m excited to finally finish this series.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Trafficking and Kidnapping
Minor: Body horror, Child abuse, Violence, Blood, Kidnapping, Medical trauma, and Fire/Fire injury
emtbf's review against another edition
4.0
I finished it. It was amzing in its unusual way. I loved it.
nodots87's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This was a fun book which reminded me a bit of a series of unfortunate events but more lighthearted. I bought this as I was given the 2nd one and I cant read books out of order. I dont think I would have chosen to read it normally but I did enjoy it and passed it on to my son as I thought he'd also enjoy it.
perhac88's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
lisamonc's review against another edition
4.0
Fun book with a fun narrator who speaks directly to the reader and shows all their cards. It was a fun read.
I felt like I could use more details in the story to really understand what was happening. The pacing was so fast at times that I didn’t quite follow everything that was going on and it left me with more questions. But it was a fun book that felt similar to Lemony Snicket’s books.
I felt like I could use more details in the story to really understand what was happening. The pacing was so fast at times that I didn’t quite follow everything that was going on and it left me with more questions. But it was a fun book that felt similar to Lemony Snicket’s books.
mom2bugnbee's review against another edition
4.0
My 12yo has been singing the praises of this series for over a year now, & I see why. Absolutely delightful middle grade book. Can't wait to read the rest of the series! Magical realism mixed with mystery, with a kick-butt 11yo heroine.
mikroraptor's review against another edition
Oof... This book went on too many rants and rambles to hold my attention. I can't even remember if I finished it or not.