It's top stuff that is not afraid to talk intelligently to its readership. * Telegraph Newspaper *
A sinister world of murder and theft, time travel and robots opens up in this taut and entertaining adventure involving amateur detective Jazmin and her secret agent mum, Assia. From the opening pages, the reader is plunged straight into the action - a murder that takes place along the river Thames. The next scene is a flashback to Venice, where Jazmin and her mum are enjoying a short break. While there, Jazmin comes across a priest, who, to her surprise is also on the return flight to London - but no longer dressed as a priest. Jazmin has little time to think this through since, back at school, she's asked to mentor twin newcomers whose behaviour is so distinctly strange that she's sure there's something amiss. Running parallel to her sleuthing is her mum's investigation into theft from a Venetian church. The action-packed adventure is skilfully plotted, weaving effortlessly between Jazmin and Assia's investigations, which gradually converge into a single storyline. The writing is spiced with humour, the language slick and breezy. * Books for Keeps *
Equally out to prove that young James Bond and Alex Rider are wusses, Spy Girl Jazmin Dawson is also back for another adventure (perhaps for a slightly older readership), together with her secret mother Assia, in Spy Girl: Dead Man Talking by Carol Hedges. This is a sophisticated tale that, among other things involves the 1978 murder of the Italian banker Roberto Calvi beneath Blackfriars Bridge. While her mother is on the trail of a villain dealing in stolen Venetian church artefacts, Jazmin has to deal with some rather curious twins. The narrative threads followed by mother and daughter naturally intertwine, into an impressive science-fictional villain's scheme that involves summoning figures from the past by means of molecular excitation of sacred religious relics. And what if the villain could lay his hands on one of the cups used at The Last Supper? It's top stuff that is not afraid to talk intelligently to its readership. * Telegraph Newspaper *
A worthy purchase... The pacing of the story is very good, from the beginning scenes in Venice, where the mystery is practically carried back by the heroines unawares in their luggage. It bears a strong sense of realistic threat to them all, and is not wrapped up in a pat or unlikely way either, but with a continued sense of the assured writing. * The Book Bag review website *
Carol Hedges captures your attention straight away. This modern take on a classic detective story livens up the genre and is perfect for readers who love mystery. * Grace Dobson - Student's review for Lancashire Book of the Year Award 2009 *
I enjoyed Dead Man Talking. It was a little slow to start, but the great storyline made it a great book. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a sharp, interesting read. * Teen reader's review in Teen Titles *
I would definitely recommend this book to other readers but probably to young people around 9-10 instead. This face-paced and highly entertaining book will stop you eating and sleeping until you have finished. A major thumbs up award for Carol Hedges! * Alison Bruike, age 14, in the Cork Evening Echo *
It's a seriously good book and has more twists than a corkscrew. It is one of those stories you can't bear to put down. * Annie Cupit - Student's review for Lancashire Book of the Year Award 2009 *
Nancy Drew for the Noughties...she is sassy and sharp with a unique futuristic edge. ***** Five star review! * Betty Bookmark review website *
