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alextblue's review against another edition
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
prairiedances's review against another edition
4.0
Next on my list of rereads from childhood is the second book in the Orphan Train Saga, focusing on Mike, the oldest brother in the Kelly family. Unlike his siblings, Mike is placed in a less than desirable home with the Fredericks. Historically, Mike's story in this book, (he is adopted merely as a hired hand), is probably the most accurate outcome for children placed through the Orphan Train.
The story is a page turner, Mike's adopted brother tries to get him in trouble and sent back to New York City where prison awaits, murder, mystery et. al. It reads like the dime novels of the time that Mike is so fond of. What is also interesting is that Mike acts like how a 12 year old boy would. He jumps to conclusions about his adopted family based on conversations overheard, he's impulsive and out of all the Kelly children so far the most complex.
Caught in the Act, is miles better than the previous installment even though it ends with convenient "happily ever after" ending (Mike is adopted by a new family and cleared of all charges). I look forward to rereading Mike's next book, A Dangerous Promise.
The story is a page turner, Mike's adopted brother tries to get him in trouble and sent back to New York City where prison awaits, murder, mystery et. al. It reads like the dime novels of the time that Mike is so fond of. What is also interesting is that Mike acts like how a 12 year old boy would. He jumps to conclusions about his adopted family based on conversations overheard, he's impulsive and out of all the Kelly children so far the most complex.
Caught in the Act, is miles better than the previous installment even though it ends with convenient "happily ever after" ending (Mike is adopted by a new family and cleared of all charges). I look forward to rereading Mike's next book, A Dangerous Promise.
ahaycraft's review against another edition
4.0
A re read if a childhood favorite. I remembered the plot of this one pretty well and really enjoyed it. Mike did irk me a little as a narrator but his story was still really good.
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