Review Detail

A SPRINKLING OF DANGER is a charming and engaging mystery/spy story. This latest installment takes the reader to Paris, where a movie is being filmed. Someone on set is leaking information about France's secret agents, so Alice goes undercover to help track down who it is. As part of her secret identity, she acts as a pastry chef on the set. As she investigates, things are becoming more dangerous and she'll need to figure it out before she is also in danger!

What I loved: This is an engaging series with a solid mystery and just the right stakes to provide tension without being too scary for middle grade readers. The setting is lush and well-developed with information about Paris and movies coming through the plot. The case develops well with little twists and turns as well as clues Alice discovers along the way.

Alice is a compelling character that feels relatable to middle grade readers. She doesn't know everything, but she is figuring it out all the same. The story is told in third person limited perspective that works well to convey the information and keep her as the main character. The reader feels for her as she becomes a target and must sleuth her way through the events.

The ending was satisfying with good resolution for the main story, and a backmatter glossary helps to define new words. The book features larger, clear text that is great for younger middle grade readers.

Final verdict: A SPRINKLING OF DANGER is a delightful and consuming middle grade mystery in a strong series, great for reader who enjoy intrigue, spies, and figuring things out!