November 5, 2012
In a violent thriller from author and PW contributor Benedis-Grab (Alive and Well in Prague, New York), two high school seniors re-evaluate their failed friendship under dangerous circumstances. Sera and Ariel have been estranged for nearly a year, after Sera betrayed a secret about Ariel, but Sera is forced to attend Ariel's birthday bash at her enormous Connect-icut mansion. During a private concert by rock star Hudson Winters, shots are fired, and a botched attempt to steal a multibillion-dollar fortune turns into hostage-taking. Ariel escapes into the mansion's network of secret passages, with Sera the only one who knows she's there. Benedis-Grab alternates between the two girls' perspectives; nearly every chapter ends with a cliffhanger, keeping tension high. Both girls respond capably to the chaotic situation, even finding time for romance amid the carnage (Ariel, a bit unbelievably, with one of the men responsible for her father's murder). Some late revelations about the perpetrators don't hold up to close scrutiny, but the action and high stakes should keep readers engaged. Ages 12âup. Agent: Sara Crowe, Harvey Klinger.
April 1, 2013
Gr 7-10-Sera really doesn't want to go to Ariel's birthday party. She and her rich friend have become estranged, and Ariel has turned all their classmates against her. Nevertheless, she grudgingly attends because of parental pressure. It can't be all bad: a hot pop star is scheduled to perform. As the lights dim for the start of the show, however, expert marksmen enter the room and assassinate Ariel's father and another guest, misidentified as his daughter. Meanwhile, Ariel escapes into the labyrinth of secret tunnels that snake throughout her family's mansion. Familiar with the tunnels from childhood explorations with her friend, Sera is overwhelmed with pressure to reveal Ariel's location as their classmates are murdered one by one. Told in alternating voices, which are at times difficult to discern, this compelling narrative includes a touch of romance. If they can forgive the unlikely action sequence at the end, readers will find this mystery satisfying.-Leah Krippner, Harlem High School, Machesney Park, IL
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