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Book Review of The Dark Deeps: The Hunchback Assignments 2

The Dark Deeps: The Hunchback Assignments 2
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Reviewed by Theresa L. Stowell for TeensReadToo.com

In the first book of THE HUNCHBACK ASSIGNMENTS, Modo becomes a spy for his guardian, Mr. Socrates. During his premier assignment, he meets and becomes infatuated with Octavia Milkweed, a girl close to his age. In this second book, Slade channels Jules Verne as he introduces young readers to the world of steampunk adventures.

Now, despite their youth, Modo will be asked to pose as Octavia's husband. Though it seems like a dream come true, Modo will experience significant discomfort as he has to continually transform his features, so Octavia will not discover his true identity.

As Modo's and Octavia's exciting new adventure takes off, they are sent to America aboard a steamship to find another one of Mr. Socrates' agents. Once they arrive, however, they are given the tragic news of the agent's death, and they are thrust into another ocean-going escapade. This time, they are setting off to find out what they can about the mysterious IctÍneo, but the only clues they have are its longitude and latitude and a loose definition of the word that suggests a connection or resemblance to a large fish.

When the rusty ship they are traveling on is damaged on the voyage, Modo is thrown overboard. Octavia struggles with the idea that Modo is dead or will be soon as their ship leaves the area to get repairs. Surprisingly, Modo is saved and learns more about the IctÍneo than he thought was possible.

Interspersed with exciting exploits, frightening villains, and shadowy locations, this segment of Modo's and Octavia's service is a fun, fast read for all ages.