Being a huge fan of the writing of Linwood Barclay, I decided to try this children's book he wrote. Although this is the second in a series and I hadn't read the first book it was a standalone read.

It might be aimed at 9+ ages but I found the whole story really intriguing. As the book begins I wasn't totally sure what was happening, but then the flashback to an earlier time began and I settled into it. Later being greeted with an "aha" moment as the timeline caught up to the beginning.

It doesn't pull any punches and isn't a saccharine or cosy thriller. There was a major twist that I didn't see coming and so much humour. The story itself I found a little unnerving, as Chipper is living dog that has been re-engineered. It was cute that the dog could communicate with Jeff through a mobile phone though.

I think this would be a great book for children to read (and adults). Especially those that like a fast paced mystery book.