Member Reviews
I accessed a digital review copy of this book from the publisher.
The book looks like it is trying to rewrite the Hardy Boys, but it did not work. It is full of passages of explanations and descriptions that are overdone and not needed. The mystery element was not that interesting.
What worked:
A potential cyber-attack is a modern problem that will resonate with young readers. The author has a strong interest in creating secure technology and her passion is clearly communicated. The twins first notice a potential cyber-attack in their city so they start investigating on their own. It turns out an attack is in progress and the scale of the impact is much grander than they thought. There is no shortage of suspects to consider, and the security of the entire nation is at risk.
The twins have clearly developed an impressive reputation for solving cyber-crimes but they’re willing to admit they don’t know everything. They previously helped a classmate resolve an issue with cyberbullying and she’s now become proficient with cybersecurity. The twins’ father is an expert with computers so they ask for his help too. A national cybersecurity agency realizes the twins have superior talents of their own and enlist their assistance to thwart the attack. However, joining the team results in unforeseen problems and dangers to complicate the girls’ lives.
The cast combines a variety of characters with different perspectives that create uncertainty about their motives. Can one of the people helping to solve the attack actually be one of the people behind it? The twins are above reproach since they’re the main characters and the head of the cyber division should be honest. However, the cyber unit investigating the attacks includes a former hacker and the twins’ father enlists the help of two more notorious hackers. They seem to want to help but readers will wonder if they might have covert, devious intentions. In addition, hackers are able to manipulate online information so can characters trust the evidence they uncover? What if damning evidence has been planted by the bad guys to implicate someone else?
What didn’t work as well:
There’s a lack of cohesiveness to the chapters as some information is redundant or seems to forget about prior events. Characters draw conclusions but the evidence they’re based on isn’t always shared with readers. The plot lacks detail during important moments, which keeps the story moving quickly, but may leave readers confused or wondering about what just happened.
The Final Verdict:
This book is most appropriate for at least middle-school readers due to the subject matter. All of the characters are high school-age or adults and the entire focus of the story is on computers, technology, and cybercrime. Readers aren’t required to make many inferences and the straightforward explanations may not appeal to all readers. Those with a strong interest in computers and the cyber world will enjoy the book.
A thrilling and heartwarming novel that will capture the imagination of young readers. The twin sisters at the center of the story are smart, brave, and resourceful, serving as wonderful role models for readers. The plot is full of suspense and drama, with unexpected twists and turns that keep the reader guessing. What really makes this book stand out, however, is its message of sisterly love and support. The bond between Mkundi and Wenasha is the heart of the story, and it's a joy to watch them work together to solve the mystery of the cyber infiltrator
A thrilling middle grade/young teen novel that combines mystery, technology, and action-packed thrills. The story follows twin sisters Mkundi and Wenasha as they race against time to stop a hacker who is attacking their town. With unexpected twists and turns at every step, the twins must use their unique skill set and determination to uncover the truth behind the cyber attacks and bring the hacker to justice. This page-turner is filled with suspenseful drama, heartwarming moments of sisterly love, and thrilling action that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.