This was a cute story. Definitely some unexpected surprises. I loved getting both Atticus and Drago's perspectives, but it was hard to differentiate the boys. Usually I had to go back and look to see whose head we were in.

In a jam, Atticus takes a tutoring job, not realizing he’d be surrounded by things that typically scare him.


I love a good old-fashioned fantasy adventure, kudos if the author throws in odd characters, funny dialogue, and a mystery. In this book, you have a typical kid dealing with an odd yet humorous situation. The result is a hilarious piece of fiction I read in one sitting.


The plot is peppered with kid-friendly dialogue and situations. The story moves quickly. The conflict propels the story.


The characters, though, are what make this a classic monster read for kids. Atticus has many flaws, but his heart is in the right place. His fear of monsters takes him right into the one place where monsters reside. There’s a full cast of characters and each one is such fun to read.


The writing is clean, appealing to kids, and funny. The descriptive narration pulls the reader into the story. I got sucked in right away.


If you love quirky fantasy adventures, you’ll want to read this book.


My Rating: 5+ stars

This is a delightful romp for middle schoolers but will keep the interest of adults. Atticus Everheart takes a tutoring job to make money quickly. He learns all monsters are not evil and that he is braver than he ever imagined. I highly recommend this fascinating story. I received a copynof this book through Netgalley.

It is so easy to absolutely fall in love with this story. Atticus Everheart is such a wonderful character, and I really hope for more adventures to come.

Nothing terrifies Atticus more than monsters. Makes sense, as his whole life he has been tormented by his older brother’s constant threats to feed him to one, especially when he’s been caught messing with their stuff. So when he accidentally damages one of his brother’s incredibly rare of books, a signed Sherlock Holmes novel their grandfather had given him, he has to find a way to make money to replace it, and fast.

When his sister finds a help wanted ad in the local paper asking for a “bright student” to tutor a “not-so bright” one, Atticus jumps at the opportunity to work and quickly gets hired to teach a reluctant student named Drago. Working at the creepiest house in town, Atticus comes to find there is much more in store for him than teaching, some of it quite monstrous indeed.

Filled with humor and mystery, the story of Atticus and his growing friendship with Drago was truly a joy to read. Perfect for late elementary to middle-grade readers looking for a bit of spook to go with their mystery.

Thank you so much to Netgalley and The Wild Rose Press for the opportunity to read and review this book.

A ruined book, a job taken to make amends, and missing people. For sure monster hunting is what most come next, this delightful book by C. L. Colyer is a fast paced and wonderful read for those who enjoy the more magical elements of fiction reading.
What I loved
-Dialogue was relatable and believable for the ages and experiences of the characters
-Teasing Siblings leaving an impact on how the main character interprets events around him.
-The whole adventure is set in motion by guilt over a ruined book which as a book collector made me smile because the character is so determined to make amends.
Who I recommend this book for
This is the perfect read for lovers of middle grade fantasy who crave a dash of mystery in their books.

What’s not to love in this endearing story about friendship, family…and a little monster hunting? Atticus is bright and imaginative, determined to make good on a mistake by answering a want-ad for a tutor. Drago is the unsuspecting student who’s more concerned about his former tutors who have gone missing than the spelling and multiplication Atticus keeps pushing at him. The two embark on a series of adventures that will keep you turning the page.

Ms. Colyer’s writing is fresh and realistic, and her dialogue just pops! This author has a winning way with crafting a story, and I look forward to reading more of her books.

Thank you to NetGalley, The Wild Rose Press, and C. L. Colyer. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Having older brothers who threaten him constantly about monsters, it's no wonder Attic us is highly fearful of them. But when he is backed into a corner because of ruining a book and having to tutor, he soon discovers he's up against all he fears most. A delightful story of meeting one's fears and how brave one can be. Good story plot with excellent characters.