Changes

The pace hasn't let up since the first story exploded onto the bookshelves, and the five friends are getting really, really tired. It's hard enough in ordinary circumstances making sure no one ever discovers their identities or their home – an abandoned bunker beneath the London Underground – but one of the many strengths of this series is that the heroes aren't just a bundle of skills: they're actual, flesh-and-blood kids too. They squabble, they get scared, and they rely way too much on Jack to make the plans and keep everybody safe, even though he's only a kid himself. And this time, they've had no chance to relax since the last crisis, and it shows. Mistakes are made – serious, life-and-death type mistakes – and Jack can barely think at times for sheer exhaustion. Things are dire indeed, although there is still the occasional funny moment: check out the scenes where Charlie gets to demonstrate her ability (or lack of) as a driver. And don't be lulled into a false sense of security as the book closes: the author has a wicked little habit of producing new shocks and reverses right up to the very final full stop. Seriously, how on earth is he going to get his characters out of the major mess he's landed them in this time?

{{amazontext|amazon=1408851490}}