I loved this second book in the series— again featuring a great train ride, this one also fraught with mystery and trouble. Hal has to use his deductive reasoning to sort out clues that will lead to the kidnapper ... I love how the authors use Hal’s talents and friendships to help him solve the mystery.

It took me awhile to get into the story. There was a hint on conflict for several chapters, but didn't amount to much until I was a good bit into the book. I did like that since out main character Hal likes to draw we get some of this pictures and drawings throughout the book. Hal being an artists, specifically someone who likes to draw really come in handy throughout the story as he and his friends are trying to solve the kidnapping. Each of the characters what we get to know and then end up solving the case actually lend their own unique ability that ends up being beneficial.

Hal has all the clues right in front of him only he doesn't notice because he draws without thinking, without processing what he is drawling first. The closer he looks along with the help of his friends, Zola, and his uncle they put the pieces of the gran kidnap together. But who really is the master behind the kidnap?

This middle-grade mystery was the perfect read for sleuths both young and old!

I loved getting to know Hal, the new Sherlock Holmes for kids. He has a magnetic personality that helps him to make new friends (and colleagues?) wherever he goes. In this book, he's joined by two new characters who assist him in figuring out where our missing girl is, and who did the kidnapping.

Something I particularly loved about this book was that it was a mystery to me all the way through. There are just enough clues to help you feel like you're apart of the detective work, but it's all still coded enough where you don't solve the mystery right away.

As well, I was happy that this mystery was fun and somewhat light, even considering the subject of kidnapping. Many mysteries I read are dark and dreary, which I can appreciate sometimes, but I don't always want to have a dampened mood. Even when reading about darker, more serious themes. I appreciated the adventure this mystery brought to accompany its sleuthing.

I read this second one before I read the first, but I didn't feel like I was lost or missing pieces. I'm sure my experience could have been that enriched by reading the books in order, but you'll definitely be okay reading out of order if you need/want to.

Overall, I was so pleased by this book! I love a good mystery and this one was fun and immersive (and not too dark, which I really appreciate).