Review Detail

After the events of the last book, nowhere in civilization is safe for Ben and his friends, and with no spy school to return to the story is paired down to the essentials. Ben and his close friends along with Erica’s parents and grandfather are hiding in the wilds of Alaska. This gives them the time to train so that Ben is no longer bumbling along and he can reasonably hold his own when they must save Cyrus Hale when his old nemesis in Russia kidnaps him.
Zoe is given more emphasis in this book as she shares a moment with Svetlana, the Russian version of Erica, which lays the groundwork for saving the group and the world. It also introduces LBGTQ+ representation into the series.
While everyone has grown more competent there are still plenty of fun scenes especially as Cyrus could use the new code name Bald Eagle! Gibbs gives us some great action sequences as well as some knowledge about Alaska, Russia, and the wildlife in the area.
Final Verdict: This is a solid addition to the series and there is a secret communication at the end that reassures us that there will be a 12th book in the future. This was a fast-paced read and the characters are continuing to grow and develop their skills and relationships ensuring that there is more fun in the future for our developing spies!