Charlie West is back! In the latest Homelander book, the karate-kicking high schooler realizes he knows where the terrorist group will strike next, but he has only a short amount of time to stop it. This series continues its great suspense-filled stories for teens by taking it to a new level, and providing great action, a good story, and an exciting premise.

What high schooler hasn't dreamed that they could be a secret agent, a spy or just someone who could right a wrong? In the Homelander series, Charlie West is just such a kid — in high school dealing with his crush and his friends one minute, strapped to a chair being tortured the next. The real events that happen to him between one and the other are both intriguing and fun for the reader to explore. One thing that Charlie never loses sight of is his faith and reliance on God.

This book is a pleasant alternative to many of the teen offerings from secular authors. It offers a positive message delivered in a way that is not condescending to the audience — Klavan writes without making an adult feel like they are reading a teen book; not an easy feat, in my opinion. That he also creates believable adolescent characters whose reactions feel real although in odd circumstances makes the books thoroughly enjoyable. One warning, I wouldn't try to read this book without reading the others — the story has too many surprises in it that are ruined if you try to go in the wrong order. That said, if you haven't read any of this series, grab your credit card, visit www.christianbook.com, and get them all. These books are what summer reading should be about — fun, likable characters living the adventures you wish you could.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255