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mcayers316's review against another edition
4.0
I listened to the audiobook version of this, and I enjoyed it quite a bit! I've had this on my list for a long time, so I'm glad I finally made time to read it. I loved the mysteries in the story, although I think for those in particular, it might have been better to read a physical copy of the book. It was hard to decipher listening to the narrator reading off random letters in the clues. Other than that, I enjoyed the narration and am looking forward to listening to the next book in the series......
nordicreads's review against another edition
5.0
Absolutely phenomenal debut! Intense, gripping and yet knows how to wrench your heart out. Written cleverly so easy to enjoy even for older readers. There are certain scenes where the book doesn't really hold back on pain, torture, suffering, or murder which had me going, "are we sure this book shouldn't be listed as for 'teens' instead of '9-12'?" But for me personally it was refreshing to read something that didn't skirt around the topics for once. Thoroughly enjoyable.
alidottie's review against another edition
4.0
This book says it is for 10 to 14 year olds, so it kind of crosses over from middle grade to YA. There are parts that are particularly violent, but nothing too offensive for an older child. I'm just not a fan of violence, so I was a bit more sensitive. I read that he is working on a sequel, but I have to say I appreciate that the story wasn't written to leave us hanging.
mochipandabear's review against another edition
5.0
This was one of the best middle grade books I’ve read in a while. I almost forgot it was one at one point because it read like an average… historical fiction(?). It was fantastic and I found myself unable to put myself down wanting to know how Christopher got himself in and out of each situation (typically with an explosion or two). I was hooked on the mystery till the very end and I am excited to start the next book to see what happens next! 5/5 Stars!!!
sallyavena's review against another edition
4.0
Captivating mystery that we listened to on a car trip. The reader (British guy...don't remember his name) was amazing!
rathew's review against another edition
This is one of my favorite book series of all time. I loved the mix of fantasy that is actually just science. The characters are so lovable and interesting. The imagery is so good I could almost smell the dirty streets and saltpeter.
joe16210's review against another edition
5.0
I expected a childish book about chemistry and alchemy, but it was surprisingly good and really well written. The story was full of action and it turned out to be a crime story actually. Strongly recomnended.
vandemon's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
papertraildiary's review against another edition
4.0
So good! Worth the buzz. Review coming closer to release date on papertraildiary.com.