Melissa is a nobody. Wilf is a slacker. Bondi is a show-off. At least that’s what their middle school teachers think. To everyone’s surprise, they are the three students chosen to compete for a ten thousand-dollar scholarship, solving clues that lead them to various locations around Chicago. At first the three contestants work independently, but it doesn’t take long before each begins to wonder whether the competition is a sham. It’s only by secretly joining forces and using their unique talents that the trio is able to uncover the truth behind the Ambrose Deception–a truth that involves a lot more than just a scholarship.
With a narrative style as varied and intriguing as the mystery itself, this adventure involving clever clues, plenty of perks, and abhorrent adults is pure wish fulfillment.
Goodreads
I received this book in exchange for an honest review
My Rating: 5 Stars
I know what you’re thinking – a middle grade book? Am I on the right blog? What is happening? I know, I know. BUT! You are on the right blog. I was lucky enough to receive an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and since the moment I finished reading it, I’ve wanted to shout its praises from the rooftops.
As you may have gleaned from the previous paragraph, I’m not known for being a reader of middle grade books. I haven’t even read the Percy Jackson series. From the moment I read the synopsis for this one, however, I knew I wanted to read it. Its such a unique and fun premise and I am thrilled to say it was expertly executed.
I think what I loved the most about The Ambrose Deception was the depth of character. When writing about multiple characters, sometimes one tends to get lost or left behind. I really got to know all three of the main characters in this book and I grew attached to them over the course of the novel. The switch from POV to POV was seamless – something I feel can easily be clunky in novels.
I loved the pacing of the book as well, it was easy to keep reading and maintained my interest from the beginning. I liked that the narrative was sprinkled with text messages, letters, etc. It really helped break things up and sped up the pacing.
My Takeaway: This was a fun, fast paced read perfect for children and adults! I enjoyed the writing style, the pacing and the characters. The plot was fun and not at all predictable. Overall a great, quick read.
As The Book Ends 