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sarahguy 's review for:
Orphan Monster Spy
by Matt Killeen
I've been looking forward to reading this book since I first heard about it a couple weeks ago, especially because it was blurbed by the the author of "Code Name Verity" - a phenomenal historical fiction teen book. However, Orphan Monster Spy can't hold a candle to that novel.
Orphan Monster Spy is the story of Sarah - recently orphaned while attempting to flee the Reich with her alcoholic mother (father is AWOL - so perhaps, she is only partially orphaned, but I'm not seeking to have a squabble with the title amongst all my other issues) and the Captain. A mysterious man she runs across while trying to escape the authorities, they assist one another and in short order, he is offering her a spy mission.
This story has a fair amount of action, but fails to develop the motivations of the characters beyond immediate wants. For that reason, I was unable to connect with any character - other than the Mouse, who was criminally underused - or to feel much sympathy as various hardships befell the characters. One of the villains is almost comically evil - I'm sure I'm not expressing that correctly, but it is sufficient to be a top Nazi and scientist, his other proclivities were a bit over the top.
I did read it in one sitting, so it moves quickly, but the impression the reader is left with is minimal. It looks to be the beginning of a series, but I'm good at bowing out after book one.
Orphan Monster Spy is the story of Sarah - recently orphaned while attempting to flee the Reich with her alcoholic mother (father is AWOL - so perhaps, she is only partially orphaned, but I'm not seeking to have a squabble with the title amongst all my other issues) and the Captain. A mysterious man she runs across while trying to escape the authorities, they assist one another and in short order, he is offering her a spy mission.
This story has a fair amount of action, but fails to develop the motivations of the characters beyond immediate wants. For that reason, I was unable to connect with any character - other than the Mouse, who was criminally underused - or to feel much sympathy as various hardships befell the characters. One of the villains is almost comically evil - I'm sure I'm not expressing that correctly, but it is sufficient to be a top Nazi and scientist, his other proclivities were a bit over the top.
I did read it in one sitting, so it moves quickly, but the impression the reader is left with is minimal. It looks to be the beginning of a series, but I'm good at bowing out after book one.