A review by sairaumar
Curse of the Specter Queen by Jenny Elder Moke

adventurous mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

Tone and writing really reminded me of the 39 Clues (one of my favorite series) but a little older! It did still read a little young for college aged and is not that academically/nerdy as some other books-- so definitely read more like upper MG/lower YA. I loved Sam & Bennett's relationship and Jo was a fun character too. It was nice how it was set in the 1920s, though I wish we got more of that vibe and more setting/world building on the train and steamer. I think the general premise/name of this "Specter Queen" and Ireland is a bit less appealing for an archaeology book (especially a first one) but it could've been aided by stronger world building and description. Despite this, still a fun time, well paced and looking forward to reading more in the series!

***SPOILER** 
 
Also, still SHOCKED by what happened to Alistair, and don't like that... it seemed too dark to fit in with the rest of the story -- the other fates seemed more justified, but not him... seemed like a bit of just a shock factor.
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