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Two Lies and a Spy #1
Two Lies and a Spy
Kari plunges into the world of espionage on a mission to save her parents while trying to impress the guy she’s been in love with forever.
When sixteen-year-old Kari’s dad sends her an unexpected text, she and her brother immediately go into hiding. Because when your parents are superspies and your dad declares a Code Black, it can only mean something bad. Very bad.
Kari soon discovers that her parents have been disavowed and declared traitors, and she’s determined to clear their names. Breaking into the Agency seems like a reasonable plan, especially with the help of a team that includes her longtime crush, Luke, as well as her two best friends—an expert hacker with attitude and a master martial artist—and Luke’s popular, vindictive twin sister. Oh, and a new guy, who’s as cute as he is complicated...
When sixteen-year-old Kari’s dad sends her an unexpected text, she and her brother immediately go into hiding. Because when your parents are superspies and your dad declares a Code Black, it can only mean something bad. Very bad.
Kari soon discovers that her parents have been disavowed and declared traitors, and she’s determined to clear their names. Breaking into the Agency seems like a reasonable plan, especially with the help of a team that includes her longtime crush, Luke, as well as her two best friends—an expert hacker with attitude and a master martial artist—and Luke’s popular, vindictive twin sister. Oh, and a new guy, who’s as cute as he is complicated...
256 pages, Hardcover
First published September 3, 2013
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September 24, 2017
STRAP IN. I GOT A RANT COMING
Listen, I don't do these much because I really can't conjure up the energy to care that much but HERE WE ARE because every now and then a book comes along that just gets you ...... fired up
And listen I know y'all thinking 2 things
1: Why did you read this in the first place?? DID I KNOW IT WAS GOING TO (PROBABLY) BE BAD? YES I KNEW buuut I read it for Around the World in 52 Books so you can't judge me gooooodbye
2: if you hated it so much explain how you read it in one sitting?? THIS IS A FAIR COP. But do you know that feeling when you're like oh my god this is so bad I have to stop reading/watching but as you say this you're hitting next episode? that was me okay
So I guess I can't say the one good thing about this book is that it's really addictive. Like I read it all in one sitting so I can hardly fault it on that front.
BUT OH MY GOD THIS BOOK
You know how we need to leave 2012 in the past because it was a a weird and unlawful time? y e a h. I know this is a 2012 book because it literally has every 2012 trope these is Love triangle? yes. Girl on girl hate? yes. Boys with eyes that can change 12 different colours depending on their mood? ye s. the sort of abusive boy who's abusive traits are somehow supposed to be hot? ye boi
THE LOVE TRIANGLE
Ah on page 2 we are introduced to our love interests. There's Luke - tall, 8 packed, tanned, grey eyes that sometimes go blue. Rich, nice, sexy dimples. He smells "sporty and sexy" direct quote
Then there's Evan - rough around the edges, super great body also, ""funny"", mysterious, blonde, a bit of a bad boy. Probably has gold eyes
READ THIS FOR YOURSELF
Anyway, first of all authors are seriously setting up all 16 year olds for disappointment because let me tell you from the bottom of my heart there are no 16 year olds who are this perfect super hot sexy - 16 year olds are gangly and pimply AND THATS NORMAL !! THATS GOOD !!! but they aren't fucking Abercrombie models the fuck
Okay the main character is described as being "super boring" - brown hair, brown eyes, obviously described in a negative way because of course. But don't worry, she's secretly super hot in the eyes of the boys and she will LEARN how truly beautiful she is don't worry (I probably shouldn't hate on the MC too much because she was kinda badass there was a scene where she choked a man with a child backpack strap like damn)
OKAY So lets talk about Love Triangle Member #2
EVAN KINCAID AND THE NO GOOD, VERY BAD, TOXIC MALE CHARACTERISTICS
So Evan is introduced as being the mystery student. He moved to America from London and has a super hot British accent but no one knows anything about him.
So one of the first things he does is the old Jace Wayland "he ran his eyes slowly down my body" HELLO THIS IS NOT HOT it's like directly objectifying the MC but anyway of course it's presented as being hot and cool whatever moving on.
So he's supposed to be super funny. Except.... his humour is always just making objectifying jokes about women.
Ahem, I quote.
"I almost didn't recognise you, but then one thing gave you away. It's the curve of your arse, love, I'd recognise it anywhere"
(If you vomited in your mouth a little, I did too)
NEXT
OKAY SO HE LITERALLY CALLS HARRASSING THE GIRLS FUN I should note this comes after he makes a heap of jokes about how he'd like to see Luke's sister (who's 15/16) naked and how she has such good boobs ect ect AND THEN
IF THIS WASN'T BAD ENOUGH
THE OTHER BOYS LAUGH ABOUT HOW HE MADE THE "ITS FUN" COMMENT
THEY LAUGHED
BITCH WTFFFF
But ooooh boy we haven't even got to the best (most toxic) bit yet
So there's a scene where Evan comes up from behind, SLAMS THE MC AGAINST THE WALL and KISSES HER WITHOUT CONSENT. and of course the other people with her cheer because these kids haven't had the consent talk yet or some bullshit. and she physically fights him off and goes off (RIGHTFULLY SO) - she says about it "I barely restrain a snarl. I cannot even verbalize how pissed off I am"
SO THIS WOULD BE GOOD (AS IN HER ANGER ABOUT IT) EXCEPT THE KISS IS KINDA PORTRAYED AS SEXY IN A WAY AND GOOD AND LATER THERE ARE NO REPURCUSSIONS BECAUSE SHE ENDS UP BEING ALL LIKE "EVAN IS MY FRIEND AND A GOOD GUY" BITCH WTF DID YOU FORGT THE TIME HE ASSAULTED YOU I DIDNT
LACEY CARSON DESERVED BETTER
So Luke, the li, has a little sister called Lacey. On literally page 2 the mc starts talking about how she's awful and such a bitch and soo mean and how she hates her
HELLO GIRLS HATING GIRLS ISN'T COOL ANYMORE
So Lacey is supposed to be really hot because thats how the characters describe her. She often is called "jailbait" by the main guys which is .... weird ....
So she's the Isabelle Lightwood of the book. She dresses in short skirts and has expensive lingerie and on fleek eyebrows and instead of evryone being like "wow! she's so confident rock on girl" THEY SHAME HER. SHE GETS CALLED A HO AND A WHORE AND A SLUT AND IM TIREDDDDD
Also I'm a bit Disturbed because often she author makes her flirt with older adult men and talks about how they're ogling her breats or butt which is a really ... not cool way to write your own character? Like you're literally objectifying her for adults mens gaze in your own story SO NOT COOL
Ironically, Lacey is the smartest motherfucker of all these dumb motherfuckers and she really kindly helps out the main trio so many times even though they're rude as fuck to her so keep on keeping on Lacey I am So Sorry you got reduced to this terrible trope
APHOBIA AND GENERAL ROMANCE BULLSHITTERY
So there's a bit when the MC gets angry and the li says "god, you're beautiful when you're angry" NOO don't belittle and dismiss people's feelings like this IT ISN'T CUTE and I just FUCBJKDFGKJD FUCKING HATE THIS LINE
okay but the REAL bullshittery
First of all, she girl says she's never kissed a guy (at age 16) and the li says to her "what is wrong with you"
WHAT THE FUCK DO YOU MEAN WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU. NOTHING IS FUCKING WROJG WITH HER. NO ONE NEEDS TO KISS ANYONE IT'S NOT FUCKING IMPORTANT AND IT MEANS NOTHIN
So he starts teasing her about it and she says
"Can you stop making me feel like a freak of nature"
"But you are. What girl of sixteen has never kissed anyone?"
Ok guys, seriously, in all seriouness. I hate this so much It's such a terrible and fucking untrue message to send. Kissing people ?? is (overrated) no ok serious it's something you do IF YOU WANT TO when YOU'RE READY. And if you never want to ? thats fine you're normal. This is fucking the worst book, because the girls who kiss too much are sluts and the girls who don't kiss are "freaks of nature"
and the fucking real joke is she's SIXTEEN she's still a kid ! No, who you have or haven't kissed doesn't fucking mean anything. Some people don't like kissing or want to kiss, some people haven't found someone they'd like to kiss. THERE IS SO MANY REASON WHY YOU MIGHT NOT HAVE KISSED SOMEONE AND NONE OF THEM MAKE YOU WEIRD
AND WHAT THE FUCK SHE'S SIXTEEN
Also Evan is fucking wrong because lots of 16 year olds have not kissed anYONE AND IT'S ALL OKAY
This bit really annoyed me. Plus is was aphobic as fuck and just generally shitty I hatedd it.
SOME DOT POINTS
- the "twist" was so fucking obvious fjghgj
- I hate Evan so much and I hope he dies in a puddle of his own bullshit
- Charlie (mc's little bro) is the One Good Thing in this book
- WHY DO PUBS LET BOOKS LIKE THIS HAPPEN WHY
My name is jamieson and on the mystery of "is this book as trash as I thought it would be" I name it fucking solved it really was.
Honestly, me opening this up to see every trope I hate ?
So All in All I hard DO NOT REC lmfao
Review end
Listen, I don't do these much because I really can't conjure up the energy to care that much but HERE WE ARE because every now and then a book comes along that just gets you ...... fired up
And listen I know y'all thinking 2 things
1: Why did you read this in the first place?? DID I KNOW IT WAS GOING TO (PROBABLY) BE BAD? YES I KNEW buuut I read it for Around the World in 52 Books so you can't judge me gooooodbye
2: if you hated it so much explain how you read it in one sitting?? THIS IS A FAIR COP. But do you know that feeling when you're like oh my god this is so bad I have to stop reading/watching but as you say this you're hitting next episode? that was me okay
So I guess I can't say the one good thing about this book is that it's really addictive. Like I read it all in one sitting so I can hardly fault it on that front.
BUT OH MY GOD THIS BOOK
You know how we need to leave 2012 in the past because it was a a weird and unlawful time? y e a h. I know this is a 2012 book because it literally has every 2012 trope these is Love triangle? yes. Girl on girl hate? yes. Boys with eyes that can change 12 different colours depending on their mood? ye s. the sort of abusive boy who's abusive traits are somehow supposed to be hot? ye boi
THE LOVE TRIANGLE
Ah on page 2 we are introduced to our love interests. There's Luke - tall, 8 packed, tanned, grey eyes that sometimes go blue. Rich, nice, sexy dimples. He smells "sporty and sexy" direct quote
Then there's Evan - rough around the edges, super great body also, ""funny"", mysterious, blonde, a bit of a bad boy. Probably has gold eyes
READ THIS FOR YOURSELF
Anyway, first of all authors are seriously setting up all 16 year olds for disappointment because let me tell you from the bottom of my heart there are no 16 year olds who are this perfect super hot sexy - 16 year olds are gangly and pimply AND THATS NORMAL !! THATS GOOD !!! but they aren't fucking Abercrombie models the fuck
Okay the main character is described as being "super boring" - brown hair, brown eyes, obviously described in a negative way because of course. But don't worry, she's secretly super hot in the eyes of the boys and she will LEARN how truly beautiful she is don't worry (I probably shouldn't hate on the MC too much because she was kinda badass there was a scene where she choked a man with a child backpack strap like damn)
OKAY So lets talk about Love Triangle Member #2
EVAN KINCAID AND THE NO GOOD, VERY BAD, TOXIC MALE CHARACTERISTICS
So Evan is introduced as being the mystery student. He moved to America from London and has a super hot British accent but no one knows anything about him.
So one of the first things he does is the old Jace Wayland "he ran his eyes slowly down my body" HELLO THIS IS NOT HOT it's like directly objectifying the MC but anyway of course it's presented as being hot and cool whatever moving on.
So he's supposed to be super funny. Except.... his humour is always just making objectifying jokes about women.
Ahem, I quote.
"I almost didn't recognise you, but then one thing gave you away. It's the curve of your arse, love, I'd recognise it anywhere"
(If you vomited in your mouth a little, I did too)
NEXT
OKAY SO HE LITERALLY CALLS HARRASSING THE GIRLS FUN I should note this comes after he makes a heap of jokes about how he'd like to see Luke's sister (who's 15/16) naked and how she has such good boobs ect ect AND THEN
IF THIS WASN'T BAD ENOUGH
THE OTHER BOYS LAUGH ABOUT HOW HE MADE THE "ITS FUN" COMMENT
THEY LAUGHED
BITCH WTFFFF
But ooooh boy we haven't even got to the best (most toxic) bit yet
So there's a scene where Evan comes up from behind, SLAMS THE MC AGAINST THE WALL and KISSES HER WITHOUT CONSENT. and of course the other people with her cheer because these kids haven't had the consent talk yet or some bullshit. and she physically fights him off and goes off (RIGHTFULLY SO) - she says about it "I barely restrain a snarl. I cannot even verbalize how pissed off I am"
SO THIS WOULD BE GOOD (AS IN HER ANGER ABOUT IT) EXCEPT THE KISS IS KINDA PORTRAYED AS SEXY IN A WAY AND GOOD AND LATER THERE ARE NO REPURCUSSIONS BECAUSE SHE ENDS UP BEING ALL LIKE "EVAN IS MY FRIEND AND A GOOD GUY" BITCH WTF DID YOU FORGT THE TIME HE ASSAULTED YOU I DIDNT
LACEY CARSON DESERVED BETTER
So Luke, the li, has a little sister called Lacey. On literally page 2 the mc starts talking about how she's awful and such a bitch and soo mean and how she hates her
HELLO GIRLS HATING GIRLS ISN'T COOL ANYMORE
So Lacey is supposed to be really hot because thats how the characters describe her. She often is called "jailbait" by the main guys which is .... weird ....
So she's the Isabelle Lightwood of the book. She dresses in short skirts and has expensive lingerie and on fleek eyebrows and instead of evryone being like "wow! she's so confident rock on girl" THEY SHAME HER. SHE GETS CALLED A HO AND A WHORE AND A SLUT AND IM TIREDDDDD
Also I'm a bit Disturbed because often she author makes her flirt with older adult men and talks about how they're ogling her breats or butt which is a really ... not cool way to write your own character? Like you're literally objectifying her for adults mens gaze in your own story SO NOT COOL
Ironically, Lacey is the smartest motherfucker of all these dumb motherfuckers and she really kindly helps out the main trio so many times even though they're rude as fuck to her so keep on keeping on Lacey I am So Sorry you got reduced to this terrible trope
APHOBIA AND GENERAL ROMANCE BULLSHITTERY
So there's a bit when the MC gets angry and the li says "god, you're beautiful when you're angry" NOO don't belittle and dismiss people's feelings like this IT ISN'T CUTE and I just FUCBJKDFGKJD FUCKING HATE THIS LINE
okay but the REAL bullshittery
First of all, she girl says she's never kissed a guy (at age 16) and the li says to her "what is wrong with you"
WHAT THE FUCK DO YOU MEAN WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU. NOTHING IS FUCKING WROJG WITH HER. NO ONE NEEDS TO KISS ANYONE IT'S NOT FUCKING IMPORTANT AND IT MEANS NOTHIN
So he starts teasing her about it and she says
"Can you stop making me feel like a freak of nature"
"But you are. What girl of sixteen has never kissed anyone?"
Ok guys, seriously, in all seriouness. I hate this so much It's such a terrible and fucking untrue message to send. Kissing people ?? is (overrated) no ok serious it's something you do IF YOU WANT TO when YOU'RE READY. And if you never want to ? thats fine you're normal. This is fucking the worst book, because the girls who kiss too much are sluts and the girls who don't kiss are "freaks of nature"
and the fucking real joke is she's SIXTEEN she's still a kid ! No, who you have or haven't kissed doesn't fucking mean anything. Some people don't like kissing or want to kiss, some people haven't found someone they'd like to kiss. THERE IS SO MANY REASON WHY YOU MIGHT NOT HAVE KISSED SOMEONE AND NONE OF THEM MAKE YOU WEIRD
AND WHAT THE FUCK SHE'S SIXTEEN
Also Evan is fucking wrong because lots of 16 year olds have not kissed anYONE AND IT'S ALL OKAY
This bit really annoyed me. Plus is was aphobic as fuck and just generally shitty I hatedd it.
SOME DOT POINTS
- the "twist" was so fucking obvious fjghgj
- I hate Evan so much and I hope he dies in a puddle of his own bullshit
- Charlie (mc's little bro) is the One Good Thing in this book
- WHY DO PUBS LET BOOKS LIKE THIS HAPPEN WHY
My name is jamieson and on the mystery of "is this book as trash as I thought it would be" I name it fucking solved it really was.
Honestly, me opening this up to see every trope I hate ?
So All in All I hard DO NOT REC lmfao
Review end
September 2, 2013
This ended up being a pretty great read. It was intriguing. It was thrilling. It was FUN! And, it surprised me in more ways than one and did not end up the way I thought it was going to.
Before I start, I wouldn't say the espionage plot was out of this world. Kari's parents are missing; they're declared traitors; she and her brother are on the run; and she and her friends try to clear her parents' names. There are some spy stuff, as well as a few fight scenes. But it was written in a way that didn't make you take it way too seriously to the point where you're thinking, "C'mon on! This is BS!" It just sort of worked - really, really well.
The characters were really great. I really liked Kari. She was spunky, but not in an annoying way - a thin line many authors often cross. My admiration for her is most comparable to the way I feel about Katarina Bishop in Ally Carter's Heist Society.
Charlie was amazing. Luke is adorable. And I LOVE Evan. Yeah, I can see how he would annoy the crap out of someone, but I could tell there was more to him, and his bickering with Kari kept me entertained. Rita and Kale were typical sidekicks. And even though Lacey was a bit over-the-top, I really liked her too because her ridiculousness made me chuckle.
I had expected to pick up a espionage story that would most likely try too hard to make the spy scenes thrilling and exciting (hey, you are writing for young adult after all). So I was prepared to nit-pick. BUT I was totally blown away by how much I enjoyed reading this. Carlton just had a way of making the book serious, yet light and fun at the same time, and it's been a while that I can say that I just thoroughly enjoyed reading a book instead of grading its merits.
Before I start, I wouldn't say the espionage plot was out of this world. Kari's parents are missing; they're declared traitors; she and her brother are on the run; and she and her friends try to clear her parents' names. There are some spy stuff, as well as a few fight scenes. But it was written in a way that didn't make you take it way too seriously to the point where you're thinking, "C'mon on! This is BS!" It just sort of worked - really, really well.
The characters were really great. I really liked Kari. She was spunky, but not in an annoying way - a thin line many authors often cross. My admiration for her is most comparable to the way I feel about Katarina Bishop in Ally Carter's Heist Society.
Charlie was amazing. Luke is adorable. And I LOVE Evan. Yeah, I can see how he would annoy the crap out of someone, but I could tell there was more to him, and his bickering with Kari kept me entertained. Rita and Kale were typical sidekicks. And even though Lacey was a bit over-the-top, I really liked her too because her ridiculousness made me chuckle.
I had expected to pick up a espionage story that would most likely try too hard to make the spy scenes thrilling and exciting (hey, you are writing for young adult after all). So I was prepared to nit-pick. BUT I was totally blown away by how much I enjoyed reading this. Carlton just had a way of making the book serious, yet light and fun at the same time, and it's been a while that I can say that I just thoroughly enjoyed reading a book instead of grading its merits.
February 1, 2014
A Quickie in the Corner Review
Great. I open my mouth to say it, but am suddenly spun by the shoulders and slammed up against the wall. Mr. Pretentious Pits, Man of the Designer Deodorant, growls, “You sexy little troll.” He covers my mouth with his obnoxious one—and the next thing I know, he’s kissing me.
Kissing. Me.
3.5 stars
The plot was fast-paced from the beginning and Kari has become one of the most bad-ass chicks from YA that I've read about in a while. Like kick-ass. She was fantastic and sassy and all around a big ball of awesome sauce. Can she be my new best friend?
But then Lucas wasn't around in the novel nearly enough for me to get attached so I have fully jumped on the Evan bandwagon and all his British glory. Also Charlie is in his own league of bad-assery. He makes me wish my brothers were that cool at 7.
The whole Tinker-Spy-Parent-Traitor deal was sort of predictable with Sophie though, and the ending was way too 'boxy' for me - I was actually kind of hoping for some big whopping cliffhanger and was severely disappointed with the somewhat uneventful ending.
Can't wait for a sequel though.
Naughty Parting Thought
I totally think the random guy on the Harley who saved her from Mitch when she left the hotel is coming back to play a role. He was too mysterious not to be more important than he was made out to be. I also kinda lusted after him a bit even though he was a blink in the book, which has totally never happened to me before. Impressions matter!
Great. I open my mouth to say it, but am suddenly spun by the shoulders and slammed up against the wall. Mr. Pretentious Pits, Man of the Designer Deodorant, growls, “You sexy little troll.” He covers my mouth with his obnoxious one—and the next thing I know, he’s kissing me.
Kissing. Me.
3.5 stars
The plot was fast-paced from the beginning and Kari has become one of the most bad-ass chicks from YA that I've read about in a while. Like kick-ass. She was fantastic and sassy and all around a big ball of awesome sauce. Can she be my new best friend?
But then Lucas wasn't around in the novel nearly enough for me to get attached so I have fully jumped on the Evan bandwagon and all his British glory. Also Charlie is in his own league of bad-assery. He makes me wish my brothers were that cool at 7.
The whole Tinker-Spy-Parent-Traitor deal was sort of predictable with Sophie though, and the ending was way too 'boxy' for me - I was actually kind of hoping for some big whopping cliffhanger and was severely disappointed with the somewhat uneventful ending.
Can't wait for a sequel though.
Naughty Parting Thought
I totally think the random guy on the Harley who saved her from Mitch when she left the hotel is coming back to play a role. He was too mysterious not to be more important than he was made out to be. I also kinda lusted after him a bit even though he was a blink in the book, which has totally never happened to me before. Impressions matter!
September 22, 2017
I love this YA book it was what basically started my reading addiction (lol). This book is one of my top 3 favorite YA series to be ever written in (my opinion). I loved the suspense and the humor. Oh my I laughed a lot during this book.
December 22, 2013
what to say? what to say...?
I LOVED IT!!! it was a read full of awesomeness and fun & giggling and gasping and fan- girling and screaming and swooning and eye- rolling and laughing and fist- pumping and nail- biting!!
emotions- disbelief & dislike & some serious like/ love & suspense and i should rather type the whole book out shouldn't i? :D
I was hooked from the first line and it keptme glued to the Kindle!
the writing was awesome...the perfect mix of spy/mystery & humor/wit that i just love
the plot was really good as well. a few surprising twists ;)
loved loved the characters! they were all so sarcastically kick-ass!
kari- a character that reminded me of Toby from Perfect Cover who is one of the most awesome YA girl characters- shes up there with Katniss and Tris!
Evan- evan evan evan ♥
he was like annoying fly that keeps buzzing in your face...but a gorgeously witty kinda fly! ♥
Luke- yesh! there's no luke-kari-evan love triangle. luke is not part of it, shouldn't be, according to me at least! i mean ok yeah hes cute and rich and all but who would even l00k at him with evan around???!!
lacey and charlie and kale & rita they were all impossibly awesome as well
the book ended at a kinda cliff- hanger and the second book releases September 2nd 2014. so long! so longggg!! :(
overall amazing awesome book! totes fab
recommend for anyone who loved the squad
✰✰✰✰✰ 5 of 5 stars
I LOVED IT!!! it was a read full of awesomeness and fun & giggling and gasping and fan- girling and screaming and swooning and eye- rolling and laughing and fist- pumping and nail- biting!!
emotions- disbelief & dislike & some serious like/ love & suspense and i should rather type the whole book out shouldn't i? :D
I was hooked from the first line and it keptme glued to the Kindle!
the writing was awesome...the perfect mix of spy/mystery & humor/wit that i just love
the plot was really good as well. a few surprising twists ;)
loved loved the characters! they were all so sarcastically kick-ass!
kari- a character that reminded me of Toby from Perfect Cover who is one of the most awesome YA girl characters- shes up there with Katniss and Tris!
Evan- evan evan evan ♥
he was like annoying fly that keeps buzzing in your face...but a gorgeously witty kinda fly! ♥
Luke- yesh! there's no luke-kari-evan love triangle. luke is not part of it, shouldn't be, according to me at least! i mean ok yeah hes cute and rich and all but who would even l00k at him with evan around???!!
lacey and charlie and kale & rita they were all impossibly awesome as well
the book ended at a kinda cliff- hanger and the second book releases September 2nd 2014. so long! so longggg!! :(
overall amazing awesome book! totes fab
recommend for anyone who loved the squad
✰✰✰✰✰ 5 of 5 stars
August 10, 2016
Actual rating: 3.5
I had a grand ol' time with the sexual tension and banter between Kari and Evan. HILARIOUS! The spy aspect was cool too. And I adored Kari's genius little brother, Charlie!
I had a grand ol' time with the sexual tension and banter between Kari and Evan. HILARIOUS! The spy aspect was cool too. And I adored Kari's genius little brother, Charlie!
May 15, 2020
this is no gallagher girls novel, but an entertaining read nonetheless. the pacing felt a bit slow at times but the plot twist towards the end made up for it.
January 2, 2023
don't have much of an opinion on this book. it was a quick read!
November 16, 2013
I hadn't heard anything about Two Lies and a Spy before I began reading it, but I'm so glad I didn't miss out! If you like books with teenage espionage and a hint of romance, I'm sure you'll be loving this book too. Kat Carlton's debut Two Lies and a Spy is pure fun!
A single text message from her father sends Kari Andrews and her younger brother, Charlie, on the run in this fast-paced thrill ride! Kari's spy parents have been captured and accused as traitors, but she's willing to do whatever it takes to prove the Agency is wrong, even if it means some computer hacking and breaking into one of the most secure buildings in the world with the help of her friends.
Kari is an awesome protagonist. She's headstrong, tough and knows how to protect herself in a fight, yet there's also a vulnerable side to her as well that she tries to hide. Under the circumstances, it would be understandable for Kari to crack and shatter as her life falls apart around her, but she remains steadfast and pulls herself together. After all, Charlie may be an adorable seven-year-old genius, but he still needs his big sister to look after him.
Kari may find herself in the serious situation of trying to rescue her parents and clearing their names, but Two Lies and a Spy is actually pretty cute and light. There were some really funny laugh out loud moments, especially in the form of trying to disguise identities. And Kari may have a crush on Luke, but her snarky banter with hottie British transfer student Evan will have you jumping ship to Team Evan at the first opportunity.
The execution of the plot could have been more complex to add a greater sense of danger and intrigue, but nevertheless, Two Lies and a Spy was an entertaining read from start to finish. After learning some very difficult truths about her life that will surely impact her actions in the future, I can't wait to see what's in store for Kari when the sequel is released next year!
A single text message from her father sends Kari Andrews and her younger brother, Charlie, on the run in this fast-paced thrill ride! Kari's spy parents have been captured and accused as traitors, but she's willing to do whatever it takes to prove the Agency is wrong, even if it means some computer hacking and breaking into one of the most secure buildings in the world with the help of her friends.
Kari is an awesome protagonist. She's headstrong, tough and knows how to protect herself in a fight, yet there's also a vulnerable side to her as well that she tries to hide. Under the circumstances, it would be understandable for Kari to crack and shatter as her life falls apart around her, but she remains steadfast and pulls herself together. After all, Charlie may be an adorable seven-year-old genius, but he still needs his big sister to look after him.
Kari may find herself in the serious situation of trying to rescue her parents and clearing their names, but Two Lies and a Spy is actually pretty cute and light. There were some really funny laugh out loud moments, especially in the form of trying to disguise identities. And Kari may have a crush on Luke, but her snarky banter with hottie British transfer student Evan will have you jumping ship to Team Evan at the first opportunity.
The execution of the plot could have been more complex to add a greater sense of danger and intrigue, but nevertheless, Two Lies and a Spy was an entertaining read from start to finish. After learning some very difficult truths about her life that will surely impact her actions in the future, I can't wait to see what's in store for Kari when the sequel is released next year!
September 11, 2016
I love YA espionage books. I loved The Gallagher Girls. I liked The Heist Society. The Specialists, The Squad, Also Known As, and Digit were okay.
But this? This was not up to par.
Yes, the heroine was kick-ass but not smart. Was she really given lessons by her spy-parents? When you go under "Code Black" or whatever name you call your highest-level-emergency, You. Don't. Trust. Anyone. Ever. Kari was doing well, giving the school the slip, rounding up her little brother, dodging agents and following the family protocol but then she goes and make contact with her friends. There's nothing wrong with getting help from your friends but effing hell You're "Trained" By Spies Act Like One! Seriously. Kari blabbed everything to her motley group including that her parents were spies and she wanted their help to break into Langley. Ahahahahahahahaha. See the major breach here? And when they entered Langley, Kari had this small, niggling thought that everything was too easy then it probably was... which it was. A trap, too. I mean, highly-trained agents could apparently be distracted by jiggling set of bazoongas. Come on. Pffftttt.
Then, the mission itself. Proving Kari's parents were not double agents. Nice, nice vehicle for action and conflict. Major drama. But there was something wrong with the picture here. Oh yeah, that confrontation scene. Why didn't she swap back the charm with the fake charm or whatever. Honestly, the superficial girl had more sense of swiping something, i.e. an access id, from an agent.
Full review at Whatever You Can Still Betray.
But this? This was not up to par.
Yes, the heroine was kick-ass but not smart. Was she really given lessons by her spy-parents? When you go under "Code Black" or whatever name you call your highest-level-emergency, You. Don't. Trust. Anyone. Ever. Kari was doing well, giving the school the slip, rounding up her little brother, dodging agents and following the family protocol but then she goes and make contact with her friends. There's nothing wrong with getting help from your friends but effing hell You're "Trained" By Spies Act Like One! Seriously. Kari blabbed everything to her motley group including that her parents were spies and she wanted their help to break into Langley. Ahahahahahahahaha. See the major breach here? And when they entered Langley, Kari had this small, niggling thought that everything was too easy then it probably was... which it was. A trap, too. I mean, highly-trained agents could apparently be distracted by jiggling set of bazoongas. Come on. Pffftttt.
Then, the mission itself. Proving Kari's parents were not double agents. Nice, nice vehicle for action and conflict. Major drama. But there was something wrong with the picture here. Oh yeah, that confrontation scene. Why didn't she swap back the charm with the fake charm or whatever. Honestly, the superficial girl had more sense of swiping something, i.e. an access id, from an agent.
Full review at Whatever You Can Still Betray.
September 4, 2013
Read more of my reviews at Nick's Book Blog.
I love a good spy book and Two Lies and a Spy caught my attention with its fun looking cover and the pretty awesome title. As soon as we enter the book, we are on an action-packed adventure along with Kari and an amazing cast of secondary characters. Kari was a main character who was a badass who was ready to do anything to help save her parents. What I liked mostly about her was her ability to think through any situation before making a decision. She was head-strong, level-headed and smart, which can be a rarity in YA heroines. As much as I loved Kari, it was her friends and little brother that made this book a success for me. I loved the interactions they had and they were so funny at times. As far as the plot goes, it was highly entertaining and it did take a turn that I didn't foresee at the end, which made me like this book even more. I have to admit that you have to suspend your disbelief and forget about logic when it came to this book, because it did have scenes that were over the top, but that didn't mean the book was any less enjoyable. There also seemed to be a budding love triangle, which I honestly did not approve of, but on the romance front, nothing much happened in the book, so I was able to forgive this book for it's love triangle. The next book will probably define it a bit more. All in all, if you are a fun of the movie Spy Kids or are looking for a book that is fun, entertaining and light, I recommend Two Lies and a Spy wholeheartedly!
April 14, 2014
I loooved this book . It made am laugh out loud so many times it was so funny. I loved the main character Karina she was so determined and awesome and funny and a no nonsense girl I also loved the relationship between her and her brother. I loved the characters Evan, Rita, Kale, Karina, Charlie and even Lacey . I felt like the romance could have been drawn out. I loved the plot it was very well paced and kept me hooked the entire time. I loved the writing style as well. The spy concept was also executed perfectly. The end had the perfect amount of a cliffhanger , not too much to the point where I was annoyed but just enough that left me hungry for more. I can't wait for the sequel!!
December 27, 2013
Really 1.5 stars. Dear lord, I hated a lot about this book. I don't know if it was because the book seemed to be written for a younger audience (it seemed more middle grade than YA) or if the entire structure just seemed meh and there were some giant gaps in logic filled with Mary Sue asses.
To see full review click on one of the following links:
The Blog
Booklikes
To see full review click on one of the following links:
The Blog
Booklikes
June 22, 2021
This book started out really amazing but went downhill towards the middle a bit. The plot itself was really good and I loved the plot twist because it’s something I haven’t seen in YA spy books yet.
I liked most of the characters but Kari seemed kind of dumb for someone raised by spies. You would think that if your family declares code black, the most important/dangerous code you could possibly get that you would trust no one. Yet Kari commits mistake after mistake that even I could call from a mile away. Don’t even get me started on Evan, he’s an awful character and I practically cringed every time he spoke.
I still enjoyed the book though and I will definitely be picking up the sequel sometime soon.
Also there is a lot of cursing which I don't mind but if you don't like that or if you're looking into books for your kids then this one is not it.
I liked most of the characters but Kari seemed kind of dumb for someone raised by spies. You would think that if your family declares code black, the most important/dangerous code you could possibly get that you would trust no one. Yet Kari commits mistake after mistake that even I could call from a mile away. Don’t even get me started on Evan, he’s an awful character and I practically cringed every time he spoke.
I still enjoyed the book though and I will definitely be picking up the sequel sometime soon.
Also there is a lot of cursing which I don't mind but if you don't like that or if you're looking into books for your kids then this one is not it.
January 25, 2022
umm meh
February 28, 2025
guys...i cant lie...i LOVE a 2000s chick flick sometimes. theyre just so camp. & you throw in spy kids?!?! lowkey also loved the plot twist insaneeee saw it coming then pysched myself out. love luke i hate that she's going to fall in love w evan next book
Want to read
February 22, 2013I friggin LOVE this cover and don't care if you judge me. There.
July 11, 2016
These characters are so immature
September 10, 2020
re-reading second time..
4.5★★★★
4.5★★★★
June 10, 2021
Ok, if i'm being honest, i did not expect much from this book.
My sister checked it out from the library and I was like what the hell, why not read it?? I thought it would be really bad but, it was a helluva lot better than I expected. I didn't expect her parents to be Russian spies, but the book was really good.
My sister checked it out from the library and I was like what the hell, why not read it?? I thought it would be really bad but, it was a helluva lot better than I expected. I didn't expect her parents to be Russian spies, but the book was really good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2016
2.5 / 5 stars rating
This review is also posted at http://readingnookandcranny.blogspot....
My heart rolls over while Lacey makes a rude retching noise from her corner of the elevator. And in case nobody hears that, she says, "Gaaaaag. Seriously?"
"Seriously?" is about what I thought as well. I think I would have enjoyed this book much more in late middle school or early high school, before I started dating and when I was around people who actually talked this way (even if I wasn't friends with this type of people because, quite frankly, they usually annoyed me).
The premise sounded awesome. A teenage girl who goes to an elite spy school that has been covertly trained in certain areas by her parents that work for the CIA. Young Alias type heroine? Check! Except... not really, it turns out. Kari gets a text from her parents that puts her on high alert, as it is a message they use to communicate when things have gone sideways. Kari goes to pick up her brother and when they show up at the rendezvous point where they are supposed to meet their parents, their parents never show. There could have been a lot of suspense and mystery and intrigue build around this plot, but instead Carlton ops for teenage drama as Kari gangs up with her hacker best friend, the guy she has a crush on, the guy she hates, and her crush's sister that she thinks is a bitch.
Finding out what the heck is going on with her parents then becomes almost an afterthought as Kari tries to plan out what to do by changing disguises and trying to flirt at the same time. There is an interesting twist at the end that was a bit original (but sort of reminded me of The Americans) that pulled a little interest back in, but by then I'd gotten bogged down in the teenage drama. I've already got the second novel checked out from the library, so I might take a crack at it, but I'm expecting the series will stay geared toward the usual teen romance and drama, and less into the political espionage drama.
This review is also posted at http://readingnookandcranny.blogspot....
My heart rolls over while Lacey makes a rude retching noise from her corner of the elevator. And in case nobody hears that, she says, "Gaaaaag. Seriously?"
"Seriously?" is about what I thought as well. I think I would have enjoyed this book much more in late middle school or early high school, before I started dating and when I was around people who actually talked this way (even if I wasn't friends with this type of people because, quite frankly, they usually annoyed me).
The premise sounded awesome. A teenage girl who goes to an elite spy school that has been covertly trained in certain areas by her parents that work for the CIA. Young Alias type heroine? Check! Except... not really, it turns out. Kari gets a text from her parents that puts her on high alert, as it is a message they use to communicate when things have gone sideways. Kari goes to pick up her brother and when they show up at the rendezvous point where they are supposed to meet their parents, their parents never show. There could have been a lot of suspense and mystery and intrigue build around this plot, but instead Carlton ops for teenage drama as Kari gangs up with her hacker best friend, the guy she has a crush on, the guy she hates, and her crush's sister that she thinks is a bitch.
Finding out what the heck is going on with her parents then becomes almost an afterthought as Kari tries to plan out what to do by changing disguises and trying to flirt at the same time. There is an interesting twist at the end that was a bit original (but sort of reminded me of The Americans) that pulled a little interest back in, but by then I'd gotten bogged down in the teenage drama. I've already got the second novel checked out from the library, so I might take a crack at it, but I'm expecting the series will stay geared toward the usual teen romance and drama, and less into the political espionage drama.
February 6, 2015
من به طرز عجیبی دارم به رمانهای جاسوسی علاقه پیدا میکنم:////
عاشق اینم که حدس بزنم کی جاسوسه،کی خیانت کاره، کی خوبه و کی بد!!!...چیز جالبی هم که درمورد رمانهای تینج سپای وجود داره اینه که همیشههههه اون پسری که خیلی خنگ میزنه و خیلی عادی و دست و پا چلوفتی بنظر میاد و شخصیت دختر اصلی مرتب رو اذیت میکنه؛ اخرش مامور ویژه ی اینتر پل یا سیا یا ام آی سیکس در میاد:))))))))یعنی قانون اول این رمان ها اینه که حتما باید شخصیت پسر مذکور جز نیروهای ویژه باشه!!...
و اما این کتاب...اولای داستان روندش خیلی بچه گانه بود!!خصوصا اونجایی که کارینا دوستاش به سازمان نفوذ کردن-با اینکه خیلیییییییی خنده دار بود- خیلی بچه گانه بود!!!..اما بعد کم کم جالب شد و روالش یه خورده منطقی تر شد که باعث شد من جای دو به کتاب سه بدم!!!
گرچه هنوزم معتقدم یه خورده بچه گانه بود...مجموعه گالاگر گرلز جاسوسهاش و ماجراهاش حرفه ای تر بود!!خیلی هم حرفه ای تر بود!!این یکی درمقایسه با اون هیچه!!...دختره به هرکی میرسید میگفت پدر و مادرم جاسوسن:///....
وچیزی که خیلی درمورد کتاب دوست داشتم روابط بین کارینا و برادرش بود!!کلا من همیشه حس همدردی عجیبی با شخصیت های دختری دارم که برادرکوچیک تر دارن و مجبورن در هر شرایط مراقب برادرشون باشن...و اینکه خود چارلی هم بااینکه هفت سالش بودخیلیییی بانمک بود^^
خوندن این رمان صرفا جهت خنده و تقویت روحیه بود که از اون نظر واقعا موثر بوده:)))).....هنوزم دارم به مکالمامه های ایوان و کارینا میخندم=)))))))))))))...یعنی شخصیت ایوان محشر بود!!عالی!!!...از همون اول کاملا معلوم بود نقش اصلیش چیه!!همون قانون پسر دست پا وچلوفتی که گفتم=))
+اون تیکه که ایوان برای کارینا رفت خرید:))))))یعنی همچین خندیدم که گوشی از دستم ول شد افتاد رو صورتم دماغمو له کرد!!نمیدونستم بخدم یا گریه کنم!!:)))
+جلد دومشو حتما تو اولین فرصت میخونم!
عاشق اینم که حدس بزنم کی جاسوسه،کی خیانت کاره، کی خوبه و کی بد!!!...چیز جالبی هم که درمورد رمانهای تینج سپای وجود داره اینه که همیشههههه اون پسری که خیلی خنگ میزنه و خیلی عادی و دست و پا چلوفتی بنظر میاد و شخصیت دختر اصلی مرتب رو اذیت میکنه؛ اخرش مامور ویژه ی اینتر پل یا سیا یا ام آی سیکس در میاد:))))))))یعنی قانون اول این رمان ها اینه که حتما باید شخصیت پسر مذکور جز نیروهای ویژه باشه!!...
و اما این کتاب...اولای داستان روندش خیلی بچه گانه بود!!خصوصا اونجایی که کارینا دوستاش به سازمان نفوذ کردن-با اینکه خیلیییییییی خنده دار بود- خیلی بچه گانه بود!!!..اما بعد کم کم جالب شد و روالش یه خورده منطقی تر شد که باعث شد من جای دو به کتاب سه بدم!!!
گرچه هنوزم معتقدم یه خورده بچه گانه بود...مجموعه گالاگر گرلز جاسوسهاش و ماجراهاش حرفه ای تر بود!!خیلی هم حرفه ای تر بود!!این یکی درمقایسه با اون هیچه!!...دختره به هرکی میرسید میگفت پدر و مادرم جاسوسن:///....
وچیزی که خیلی درمورد کتاب دوست داشتم روابط بین کارینا و برادرش بود!!کلا من همیشه حس همدردی عجیبی با شخصیت های دختری دارم که برادرکوچیک تر دارن و مجبورن در هر شرایط مراقب برادرشون باشن...و اینکه خود چارلی هم بااینکه هفت سالش بودخیلیییی بانمک بود^^
خوندن این رمان صرفا جهت خنده و تقویت روحیه بود که از اون نظر واقعا موثر بوده:)))).....هنوزم دارم به مکالمامه های ایوان و کارینا میخندم=)))))))))))))...یعنی شخصیت ایوان محشر بود!!عالی!!!...از همون اول کاملا معلوم بود نقش اصلیش چیه!!همون قانون پسر دست پا وچلوفتی که گفتم=))
+اون تیکه که ایوان برای کارینا رفت خرید:))))))یعنی همچین خندیدم که گوشی از دستم ول شد افتاد رو صورتم دماغمو له کرد!!نمیدونستم بخدم یا گریه کنم!!:)))
+جلد دومشو حتما تو اولین فرصت میخونم!
August 27, 2016
This book ninja-kicked some serious butt!
This book is perfect for those looking to read a spy-action and romance novel. There's also some humor intertwined in the mix and it's a perfect combination of lightheartedness, fierce fight scenes and plot twists.
The main characters (friends of Kari's) were all so likeable, even Lacey.
"I'll change my regulation skirt for a shorter one," Lacey says. At her brother's disgusted look, she throws up her hands. "What? We might need me to distract somebody."
Rita practically gags herself on Luke's bedpost.
And then there's Evan in all his British glory.
"Enough!" Evan shouts. "I will go in and get Kari something."
"You?" Rita eyes him. "What would you know about women's clothing?"
"Quite abit, actually. Especially how to take it off."
(Maybe Dylan Sprayberry could play a good Evan ;D)
All the characters had personalities and actually made the book what it is.
Not to mention a really great plot twist that took me by surprise. This book ticked off the the following:
Great storyline? Check.
Interesting and likeable characters? Check.
Fast-paced action? Check.
Humor? Check.
An unexpected plot twist? Check.
Really hot/sarcastic/witty/charming British guy? Check. [I was #Team Evan the whole way :)]
So if you're looking for an adventure-filled read be sure to pick this one up!!!
This book is perfect for those looking to read a spy-action and romance novel. There's also some humor intertwined in the mix and it's a perfect combination of lightheartedness, fierce fight scenes and plot twists.
The main characters (friends of Kari's) were all so likeable, even Lacey.
"I'll change my regulation skirt for a shorter one," Lacey says. At her brother's disgusted look, she throws up her hands. "What? We might need me to distract somebody."
Rita practically gags herself on Luke's bedpost.
And then there's Evan in all his British glory.
"Enough!" Evan shouts. "I will go in and get Kari something."
"You?" Rita eyes him. "What would you know about women's clothing?"
"Quite abit, actually. Especially how to take it off."
(Maybe Dylan Sprayberry could play a good Evan ;D)
All the characters had personalities and actually made the book what it is.
Not to mention a really great plot twist that took me by surprise. This book ticked off the the following:
Great storyline? Check.
Interesting and likeable characters? Check.
Fast-paced action? Check.
Humor? Check.
An unexpected plot twist? Check.
Really hot/sarcastic/witty/charming British guy? Check. [I was #Team Evan the whole way :)]
So if you're looking for an adventure-filled read be sure to pick this one up!!!
September 1, 2016
Book of the Week 5
February 1/2 2014
3,5Stars
To be honest when I started this book I was thinking: Oh dear this is going to be another spy kids!
But I am pleased to say: well it isn't.
Yeah the main thread evolves parent spies, and the plot is a huge adventure spun around finding them, but this I am glad to say is better. Way better.
I seriously enjoyed reading this. It's fun, exhilarating and thrilling.
I read it in one sitting. The non-stop action told from Kari's POV.
Thought there were moments, that were kinda bordering impossible at the time. I never actually sat up and remarked it. I read on, and things fell into place, making the plot acceptable. The plot is non-stop action. It walks the fine line of total ridiculous and believable extremely well. Which is what makes this so entertaining. I gotta say that I was not surprised about any of the twists- in fact I saw them coming. But it didn't matter.
The story was so well told, which is what kept me on my toes. The writing style is contemporary and fun. Not super-descriptive or beautiful, it's to the point; fitting to the fast paced story line, and the person who tells it. It makes this a pleasure to read.
While some of the side characters were kinda cliche, I loved the gang. Kari's worries and emotions were relatable and believable. I adore Evan btw!
My biggest issue was the end, it wasn't only predictable, it felt too sudden and too convenient. The villain was a tad bit too much for my taste.
I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
February 1/2 2014
3,5Stars
To be honest when I started this book I was thinking: Oh dear this is going to be another spy kids!
But I am pleased to say: well it isn't.
Yeah the main thread evolves parent spies, and the plot is a huge adventure spun around finding them, but this I am glad to say is better. Way better.
I seriously enjoyed reading this. It's fun, exhilarating and thrilling.
I read it in one sitting. The non-stop action told from Kari's POV.
Thought there were moments, that were kinda bordering impossible at the time. I never actually sat up and remarked it. I read on, and things fell into place, making the plot acceptable. The plot is non-stop action. It walks the fine line of total ridiculous and believable extremely well. Which is what makes this so entertaining. I gotta say that I was not surprised about any of the twists- in fact I saw them coming. But it didn't matter.
The story was so well told, which is what kept me on my toes. The writing style is contemporary and fun. Not super-descriptive or beautiful, it's to the point; fitting to the fast paced story line, and the person who tells it. It makes this a pleasure to read.
While some of the side characters were kinda cliche, I loved the gang. Kari's worries and emotions were relatable and believable. I adore Evan btw!
My biggest issue was the end, it wasn't only predictable, it felt too sudden and too convenient. The villain was a tad bit too much for my taste.
I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
January 11, 2015
1.5 stars
It had potential in the idea. It really did. I liked the emphasis on Charlie and big sister Karina. (Although they were both super special. Charlie is a seven-year-old genius, speaks four languages, etc, while Kari was already extremely skilled in martial arts and basic spy tradecraft.)
However, the writing was unpolished and simplistic, the dialogue frequently painful to read and the sexual innuendo sickening. The boys are constantly ogling the girls breasts and arses, pinching their butts (and not getting called on their behavior, no doubt because the girls are too busy flaunting their assets like Lacey or drooling over the super-handsome Luke like Kari.
I saw every single plot twist well in advance of its reveal, particularly Sophie, her parents being "traitors" and Evan being "good."
So much is just glossed over. Especially concrete details about her parents and how Kari knows what to do. So much of this story is completely unbelievable and the story is not grounded strongly enough to overlook the glaringly illogical plot, character's actions, etc. The characters never seem remotely mature or competent to pull off breaking into Langley.
It had potential in the idea. It really did. I liked the emphasis on Charlie and big sister Karina. (Although they were both super special. Charlie is a seven-year-old genius, speaks four languages, etc, while Kari was already extremely skilled in martial arts and basic spy tradecraft.)
However, the writing was unpolished and simplistic, the dialogue frequently painful to read and the sexual innuendo sickening. The boys are constantly ogling the girls breasts and arses, pinching their butts (and not getting called on their behavior, no doubt because the girls are too busy flaunting their assets like Lacey or drooling over the super-handsome Luke like Kari.
I saw every single plot twist well in advance of its reveal, particularly Sophie, her parents being "traitors" and Evan being "good."
So much is just glossed over. Especially concrete details about her parents and how Kari knows what to do. So much of this story is completely unbelievable and the story is not grounded strongly enough to overlook the glaringly illogical plot, character's actions, etc. The characters never seem remotely mature or competent to pull off breaking into Langley.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2020
So this was a good book, but everyone just happened a little to fast. I would have enjoyed it more if just did not happen that fast.
July 31, 2020
I absolutely loved this book! I'm writing this review after reading the second one but this will have no spoilers, promise! The first book following onto the second perfectly! It ends at one end, and is picked up perfectly at the other. This is an honest review!
Kari gets a message from her dad calling code black. Her and her younger brother Charlie have to go into hiding. Kari soon discovers that her parents were disavowed, and accused of being spies and traitors. Kari besides that the best idea she has is to break into the agency and help her parents. She gets help from her team, which includes her long time crush, Luke, her best friend and amazing hacker, Rita, black belted Kale and a dirty mined boy called Evan.
People have complained about Evan and his very dirty mind. Yes, he was rude at times but it doesn't bother me like it does other people. For me, it didn't ruin the story or make it worse. I loved the book anyway! They also don't seem to like the girl-on-girl hate that goes on. Again, I don't really mind it. It didn't ruin the book or make me dislike it. It also just shows that not everyone will get along together.
I loved the character of Kari. She was so badass and amazing, I'm just amazed by her. She goes through so much trouble to try and find her parents and break them out. She was always determined and drama with Lacey or Evan didn't distract her. Either did her crush being around her all the time. I loved all the characters! Evan, yes he was dirty minded and a little rude, but I liked him. He seemed like he had no clue what any of this was but tried to help anyway. Rita was amazing and so talented on computers. She also has some drama with Lacey, but she doesn't let it get in her way of the task. I loved Kale and his amazing karate skills (which Kari also has) and how he was just a total badass too. I also loved Luke, super handsome and charming and was willing to help Kari; after some hesitation. I also adored Charlie. He was adorable and despite only being 7, he was very smart.
The twists and turns kept me on my toes the whole time! When certain things are revealed that I wasn't expecting, it had me like 'what????'. I liked the suspense drawn into the book, along with some humour and romance.
Okay, now the romance. I loved it! I will be honest, I think that it's better in the second one. The love interest was Luke and at the end it was so sweet I almost cried!
Overall, I found this book so interesting and amazing! Hope this review helps!
Kari gets a message from her dad calling code black. Her and her younger brother Charlie have to go into hiding. Kari soon discovers that her parents were disavowed, and accused of being spies and traitors. Kari besides that the best idea she has is to break into the agency and help her parents. She gets help from her team, which includes her long time crush, Luke, her best friend and amazing hacker, Rita, black belted Kale and a dirty mined boy called Evan.
People have complained about Evan and his very dirty mind. Yes, he was rude at times but it doesn't bother me like it does other people. For me, it didn't ruin the story or make it worse. I loved the book anyway! They also don't seem to like the girl-on-girl hate that goes on. Again, I don't really mind it. It didn't ruin the book or make me dislike it. It also just shows that not everyone will get along together.
I loved the character of Kari. She was so badass and amazing, I'm just amazed by her. She goes through so much trouble to try and find her parents and break them out. She was always determined and drama with Lacey or Evan didn't distract her. Either did her crush being around her all the time. I loved all the characters! Evan, yes he was dirty minded and a little rude, but I liked him. He seemed like he had no clue what any of this was but tried to help anyway. Rita was amazing and so talented on computers. She also has some drama with Lacey, but she doesn't let it get in her way of the task. I loved Kale and his amazing karate skills (which Kari also has) and how he was just a total badass too. I also loved Luke, super handsome and charming and was willing to help Kari; after some hesitation. I also adored Charlie. He was adorable and despite only being 7, he was very smart.
The twists and turns kept me on my toes the whole time! When certain things are revealed that I wasn't expecting, it had me like 'what????'. I liked the suspense drawn into the book, along with some humour and romance.
Okay, now the romance. I loved it! I will be honest, I think that it's better in the second one. The love interest was Luke and at the end it was so sweet I almost cried!
Overall, I found this book so interesting and amazing! Hope this review helps!
April 6, 2013
Two-second recap: In Two Lies and a Spy, Kat Carlton has created her own spin on the teenager-with-spy parents genre, with exciting and unexpected results.
***
Full review:
So, confession. I've been looking for good teen-orientated books recently which aren't dystopians, and don't involve any of the following genres:
1) summer vacation/spring break
2) a forbidden romance
3) supernatural elements.
There's nothing wrong with any of these genres, but they've been a little too overdone recently, and I wanted something different.
So when I saw the Two Lies and a Spy synopsis on Edelweiss, I knew I had to get my hands on this book!
***
Plot overview:
After sixteen-year-old Kari receives a Code Black from her spy parents, she grabs her brother and goes on the run. Even though she's not sure that this isn't just a test, she's not willing to take any chances.
After a series of increasingly hostile encounters from (former) colleagues of her parents, Kari learns that her parents have been accused of being double agents, and are being held for questioning by the US Government.
It's now up to Kari and a group of talented friends - including Kari's longtime crush - to get to the bottom of the accusations, and break her parents out.
***
Things that worked :
* The strong-female-in-charge character. Kari's thrown into an impossible situation from the first pages of the novel, and she remains consistently capable and confident throughout the course of the novel.
Even when she learns things that seriously change her understanding of the world, Kari still soldiers on LIKE A BOSS. I loved this about her when reading, and I kind of wanted to point her out to the kids of family friends around her age and go, here's a good role model!
* The supportive friends. Carlton has included a diverse cast of characters, and I loved the fact that they were all very quirky and talented in their own ways, and very supportive of Kari and her little brother.
I would go so far as to say that Carlton has essentially created a high school version of the Ocean's 11 crew for Kari and her brother. They're clever, creative and still fun - even in the face of danger.
* The obvious research. I loved the fact that Kat Carlton had obviously done her research into real-world historical events, and intermixed them into the plot of the story. While younger readers may miss the references, I can see older readers appreciating them.
* The plotting. Readers are thrown into action from the very first page of the novel, and it doesn't let up. Carlton does an excellent job of showcasing how tense Kari and her brother feel as they escape through the streets of Washington, constantly looking over their shoulders.
* The ending. There is normally one way that these teenager-with-missing-spy parents stories will go. (Think about it. You'll get it.)
I really liked the fact that Carlton chose to take a different path. Not only does this set up a lot of potential conflict further down the line, it also sets up a lot of character development for Kari.
The ending will also not only get younger readers clamoring for more, but it will also challenge them to think what they would do in a similar situation - where they don't have parents to figure things out and solve problems for them.
* The cover. It's bold, eye-catching, and I love the fact that Kari's not wearing a ball gown/in dress/looking demure, etc.
***
Things that didn't work/Things to consider:
* Without spoiling too much, the romance story line. Kari is caught in a love triangle (of sorts) during the book, and I had difficulty buying it.
If I were in the middle of a crazy situation where everything I thought was true wasn't, my parents were in jail, and I didn't know who I could trust, the last thing I would be doing is thinking about the cute boys who've come to my rescue - no matter just how charming their accents or their bodies were.
Also, we find out that one of them isn't what they seem, which made the romance even more problematic.
However, I will totally concede that I'm older than the targeted age group, and I can totally see a middle grade reader loving both boys.
* The marketing. I noticed that Two Lies and a Spy is being marketed for age 14 and up. My suggestion to Simon and Schuster is to gear the book more toward the middle grade crowd.
It's not that I think that the book would be a bad fit in the YA genre, I just think that it would face much stiffer competition - e.g. the inevitable comparisons to books like the Heist Society/Gallagher Girl series, than it would with middle grade books.
Also, while Carlton's an excellent writer, I think the depth of the writing would make it more applicable to middle grade readers. The book isn't as developed character-wise/plot-wise as some of the other YA books, and I don't want readers to not read the book, for that reason.
(Basically, I like Carlton and her writing, and I don't want this book to be overlooked!)
***
Final verdict: While Carlton's book doesn't necessarily reinvent the teenager-as-a-spy genre, Kari's journey is completely infectious and a fun, quick read. Carlton has also set the stage for the return of Kari and Co., and I'm excited to see where she takes their adventures.
Recommend for the middle grade crowd, especially for fans of the
Stormbreaker series, Alex Scarrow's TimeRider series, and - if we're going old school - Carolyn Keene's Nancy Drew series.
***
Disclaimer: I received a digital ARC of Two Lies a Spy from Simon and Schuster via Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
***
Full review:
So, confession. I've been looking for good teen-orientated books recently which aren't dystopians, and don't involve any of the following genres:
1) summer vacation/spring break
2) a forbidden romance
3) supernatural elements.
There's nothing wrong with any of these genres, but they've been a little too overdone recently, and I wanted something different.
So when I saw the Two Lies and a Spy synopsis on Edelweiss, I knew I had to get my hands on this book!
***
Plot overview:
After sixteen-year-old Kari receives a Code Black from her spy parents, she grabs her brother and goes on the run. Even though she's not sure that this isn't just a test, she's not willing to take any chances.
After a series of increasingly hostile encounters from (former) colleagues of her parents, Kari learns that her parents have been accused of being double agents, and are being held for questioning by the US Government.
It's now up to Kari and a group of talented friends - including Kari's longtime crush - to get to the bottom of the accusations, and break her parents out.
***
Things that worked :
* The strong-female-in-charge character. Kari's thrown into an impossible situation from the first pages of the novel, and she remains consistently capable and confident throughout the course of the novel.
Even when she learns things that seriously change her understanding of the world, Kari still soldiers on LIKE A BOSS. I loved this about her when reading, and I kind of wanted to point her out to the kids of family friends around her age and go, here's a good role model!
* The supportive friends. Carlton has included a diverse cast of characters, and I loved the fact that they were all very quirky and talented in their own ways, and very supportive of Kari and her little brother.
I would go so far as to say that Carlton has essentially created a high school version of the Ocean's 11 crew for Kari and her brother. They're clever, creative and still fun - even in the face of danger.
* The obvious research. I loved the fact that Kat Carlton had obviously done her research into real-world historical events, and intermixed them into the plot of the story. While younger readers may miss the references, I can see older readers appreciating them.
* The plotting. Readers are thrown into action from the very first page of the novel, and it doesn't let up. Carlton does an excellent job of showcasing how tense Kari and her brother feel as they escape through the streets of Washington, constantly looking over their shoulders.
* The ending. There is normally one way that these teenager-with-missing-spy parents stories will go. (Think about it. You'll get it.)
I really liked the fact that Carlton chose to take a different path. Not only does this set up a lot of potential conflict further down the line, it also sets up a lot of character development for Kari.
The ending will also not only get younger readers clamoring for more, but it will also challenge them to think what they would do in a similar situation - where they don't have parents to figure things out and solve problems for them.
* The cover. It's bold, eye-catching, and I love the fact that Kari's not wearing a ball gown/in dress/looking demure, etc.
***
Things that didn't work/Things to consider:
* Without spoiling too much, the romance story line. Kari is caught in a love triangle (of sorts) during the book, and I had difficulty buying it.
If I were in the middle of a crazy situation where everything I thought was true wasn't, my parents were in jail, and I didn't know who I could trust, the last thing I would be doing is thinking about the cute boys who've come to my rescue - no matter just how charming their accents or their bodies were.
Also, we find out that one of them isn't what they seem, which made the romance even more problematic.
However, I will totally concede that I'm older than the targeted age group, and I can totally see a middle grade reader loving both boys.
* The marketing. I noticed that Two Lies and a Spy is being marketed for age 14 and up. My suggestion to Simon and Schuster is to gear the book more toward the middle grade crowd.
It's not that I think that the book would be a bad fit in the YA genre, I just think that it would face much stiffer competition - e.g. the inevitable comparisons to books like the Heist Society/Gallagher Girl series, than it would with middle grade books.
Also, while Carlton's an excellent writer, I think the depth of the writing would make it more applicable to middle grade readers. The book isn't as developed character-wise/plot-wise as some of the other YA books, and I don't want readers to not read the book, for that reason.
(Basically, I like Carlton and her writing, and I don't want this book to be overlooked!)
***
Final verdict: While Carlton's book doesn't necessarily reinvent the teenager-as-a-spy genre, Kari's journey is completely infectious and a fun, quick read. Carlton has also set the stage for the return of Kari and Co., and I'm excited to see where she takes their adventures.
Recommend for the middle grade crowd, especially for fans of the
Stormbreaker series, Alex Scarrow's TimeRider series, and - if we're going old school - Carolyn Keene's Nancy Drew series.
***
Disclaimer: I received a digital ARC of Two Lies a Spy from Simon and Schuster via Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2018
This book was kind of bad, but in a good way. It was so addicting that I couldn’t put it down and actually kind of had a twist ending which I wasn’t expecting. Now, I want to read the second which is a problem because I don’t think the library has it and I’m not willing to pay lol.
December 28, 2017
Loved it!
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