What was supposed to be a simple summertime mystery turned out to be a dark and twisty tale with witches and magic.

This turned from fluffy summertime read to an intriguing Halloweeny/October mystery read. I loved the representation, first and foremost, and I adored how this centers on journalism and how CJ is so passionate for it. CJ looks up to her grandmother, a renowned journalist, and is trying to pave her own journalistic career—even though she’s met with hurdles such as her rival, being barred from covering certain stories, and being underestimated as she is still a kid. Overall, this one is a lighthearted, but also a thrilling read.

Thank you to NetGalley and Holiday House books for the ARC :>

CJ Delaney idolises her grandmother Conti, who now runs the local newspaper, and used to be a fearless journalist breaking major news stories once upon a time. Her police chief father and protective mother have only agreed to let CJ do an internship at Conti's newspaper over the summer provided she stays out of danger.

There isn't likely to be much of that around. CJ is forever in search of interesting stories to tell about life in their small town, but usually events at the 4 H Club are about as exciting as it gets.

Until... A series of events including the kidnapping of a dog and a lamb, an attack by a gigantic black dog, and the appearance of strange artifacts and a creepy altar in the woods, indicate that there is something more menacing going on here. And who better to bring things to light than this brave cub reporter and her best friend and photo journalist sidekick Parker?

This is an enjoyable story featuring snappy dialogue and a very smart, sassy female MC of colour. It will be an entertaining read for anyone in the target age group.