BOOKLIST -- It's time to dig out your flashlight and
put on your best sleuth hat because there's mystery afoot! Del Col, known for
re-imagining classics, is back with another mystery set in his take on the world
of Nancy Drew. After uncovering the crime organization known as “the
Syndicate,” Nancy Drew is forced off a bridge in her car by an unknown
assailant. Joe Hardy can't seem to let the case go and persists in looking into
her death. He visits River Heights, the town Nancy lived in, and uncovers clues
leading him to his brother Frank and a web of lies and deceit. At times the
story weaves a thrilling mystery leaving the reader in suspense, though
elsewhere is can be somewhat predictable. The straightforward artwork is simple,
yet it gives a subtle elegance to these classic characters. Fans both new and
old will find this book enjoyable, but librarians should be aware that it isn't
quite as tame as the classic novels. Readers who appreciate updated takes on
classic comics should also get a kick out of this. <i>- Jonathan
Khan</i><br /><br /><br />

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL -- Gr 8 Up-Someone wants Nancy
Drew dead, and the only person who can finger the killer is Nancy herself-with a
little help from her friends, of course. This volume collects all six issues of
the series, continuing the story begun in Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys: <i>The
Big Lie</i>, in which sleuths Nancy, Joe, and Frank uncovered a dangerous crime
ring in Bayport. Now the remnants of the Syndicate are hungry for revenge and on
Nancy's tail. Her assailants make an attempt on her life and believe themselves
successful; Nancy decides to play dead to shake her pursuers. Joe Hardy,
initially fooled and heartbroken, is shocked to discover Nancy in her hometown
of River Heights, lying low and already in cahoots with his brother, Frank, as
she hunts for her own murderers. They join forces once again, and their
investigations take them down dark, dangerous, and satisfyingly twisty roads
that lead them to question everything and everyone from the corrupt local police
department to their own families and some of their oldest, dearest friends.
Full-color illustrations depart from the vintage style of The Big Lie for a more
modern noir comic feel that suits the story well. The characters are portrayed
close to their classic depictions-Joe has pale skin and blond hair, Frank is a
little more tan and brown-haired, and Nancy has light skin, with a red dye job
to help mask her identity. VERDICT A surefire recommendation for fans of the
latest comics revival as well as the classic chapter books. Purchase alongside
The Big Lie wherever adventure mysteries are in demand.<br /><br /><br />