Change Isn't Always a Good Thing

Gallagher Girls #3:  Don't Judge a Girl By Her Cover by Ally Carter

Adolescent Spy Thriller/Adventure

This book is a departure from the first two books in the series, in both plot and mood, and the change wasn't a welcome one.  The other two books have been more 'offensive' in nature, where Cammie and her friends get to tackle bad guys and cute boys using skills they are learning at the top secret Gallagher Girl spy school.  This book is more 'defensive' as Cammie, and more so, Macey have to defend their lives against unknown foes that are trying to kidnap the vice-president's daughter.    And, it turns out the girls aren't nearly so good at defense, especially when it's personal.  The mood in this book is different, too, and just the opposite of the first two.  This book was a downer.  The girls are very depressed and unsure of themselves in an almost stifling way.  They very quickly surrender to their victimization.

That is probably my main complaint with this book.  I thought the first two were such good books for the girls in  my classroom, so full of power and independence.  But this one is more a lesson in letting your fear overcome you.

Another sore point-this book is more about Cammie's BFF Macey than about Cammie herself. Cammie almost seems like an interested bystander.  If Macey told more of the story, it might have worked better.  Also, there was no real romance here but it may lead the way for a strange new romance in the next installment.

Still, I liked the book and really like this series.  These books must be read in order to really make sense. I hope the next one gets back on track.