Cass and Max-Ernest make a welcome return in the second book in the 'Secret' series. As with its predecessor, the success of this book lies in its playfulness. The frequent placement of footnotes adds irreverent and direct addresses to the reader. Aping the gothic horror tradition, it successfully draws upon those literary traditions whilst also satirizing them, guaranteeing readers an inventive and stylish read. * Books for Keeps *
Bursting with inventive characters and laugh-out-loud moments. * Love Reading 4 Kids *
I can assure you, reader, that this is a story worth reading. It is exciting, pacy and full of action. Fans of Lemony Snicket will enjoy the dry sense of humour and fans of Anthony Horowitz will love the mystery. Suffice to say that it is a thrilling sequel and should be read after the first book. It is well written, and despite its size very easy to read. It will have appeal to reluctant readers once they see that the type face is large, the text is short and snappy and that it has very odd ideas, for example moving backwards through the chapters! Everything about this book is unusual but it is exciting, gripping and a fun read that I thoroughly recommend. * Write Away *
Rest assured, this is no standard story dressed up in a quirky, novelty fashion. Yes, the design of the book and the narrator's odd approach both add up to make this book a most individual one, but the adventure at its core is more than enough to satisfy the target audience. * The Book Bag *
This is the quirky, original and deliciously dark sequel to the hilarious The Name of This Book is Secret. Bursting with inventive characters and laugh-out-loud moments, readers will be instantly hooked once more by the stylish storytelling of Pseudonymous Bosch. * Lovereading4kids.co.uk *
This story is another tale of the supernatural, full of threats of doom, mystery and magic. The story is lengthy with many characters and complications and with quirky footnotes and asides from the author. Readers are given a 'binding contract' to sign at the end and this is all part of the mystery which all young readers will enjoy. * School Librarian Journal *
