"The Adventures of the Flash Gang: Episode Two - Treasonous Tycoon" by S.J. Waugh and M.M. Downing continues the journey of Lewis and Pearl, whose friendship is put to the test in this emotionally charged installment. The duo faces a challenging choice between doubt and trust, a significant theme given their upbringing in an environment fraught with uncertainty.

With the introduction of new friends Mac and Duck, who have been part of their world for a year now, the dynamics within the group appear harmonious at first. However, their failing investigation into the crimes of a treacherous tycoon begins to strain the bonds between Pearl, Lewis and Mac. This narrative explores the impact of new secrets that threaten to unravel the carefully constructed world they've built together.

The plot takes a gripping turn when Mac goes missing, and the fragile ties within the group begin to fray. A new rescue mission ensues, bringing both allies and adversaries into the mix. This installment may not match the sheer excitement of the first book, but it compensates with deeper emotional connections and the introduction of intriguing new characters.

One of the notable aspects of this book is its integration of real historical events, such as the Pittsburgh flood, which adds an element of authenticity to the story. This historical backdrop enriches the narrative, making the adventure more immersive.

As a reader, the anticipation for the next book is heightened by the promise of the story moving to Berlin. The challenge of how two young kids with limited resources will manage to embark on their biggest rescue mission yet adds an intriguing layer of suspense. While it’s difficult to see how they will accomplish this feat, the prospect of surprises keeps the anticipation alive.

Overall, "Treasonous Tycoon" might not be as action-packed as its predecessor, but it delivers a more nuanced exploration of relationships and trust. The combination of historical references and new character introductions keeps the series fresh and engaging. With the promise of exciting developments in Berlin, readers are left eagerly awaiting the next adventure in the Flash Gang series.

An excellent middle-grade adventure in the classic "kids without parental supervision" mould. Set in Depression-era Pittsburgh, this is the second in the series; I hadn't read the first but enough background is given to get the gist and make this a readable standalone.

The Flash Gang are a group of street kids - or streeters - scraping a living while trying to avoid the gangsters they encountered in book 1 when they barely escaped with their lives.

They discover that streeters are leaving Pittsburgh, apparently to be adopted by loving families - but is something more sinister going on?

Downing and Waugh juxtapose the precarious life of the streeters with the wealth of Pittsburgh's select few to good effect. They have created an engaging set of characters and I will follow the series with interest.

Bottom line - if you like Katherine Woodfine's excellent Sinclair's Mysteries, you will probably like this.

This was a great sequal to the first book. I loved the dectective work and the theme of working with friends to get something done. Very true and a great middle grade book. 5/5 stars. I have put this on my student's summer reading list.

I hadn't read the first book in the series but that did not stop me enjoying this one. The characters are well described as are the relationships between them. I also enjoyed the Victorian references hinting at what life would have been like for the street urchins. The 'Streeters' find themselves trying to solve a mystery but can they stay true to themselves whilst they endeavor to uncover the truth?