Award-winning author B. T. Polcari has done it again, delivering a gripping, well-researched, and suspense-filled crime mystery with “Lucky Secrets.” This standalone sequel in the popular “Mauzzy and Me Mystery” series delves deeper into the thrilling adventures of Sara Donovan. Subtitled “Having all the luck is not always a good thing,” the story follows Sara as she grapples with protecting her privacy, dodging blackmail, and untangling a web of secrets. Readers are invited to step into her world, solve riddles, uncover clues, and navigate a maze of red herrings in this fast-paced and cleverly written mystery. With its rich plot and engaging characters, “Lucky Secrets” keeps you guessing until the very end.
Sara, her wild card best friend, Zoe, and her adorable dachshund, Mauzzy, find themselves entangled in a high-stakes contest of wits alongside an array of distinctively portrayed contestants. Each character brings their own quirks and challenges to the table, keeping the competition as unpredictable as it is intense. Among them is a stoic sentry, whose imposing height and bulk are described as enough to “dwarf most high-end refrigerators,” making him a figure both intimidating and unforgettable. Joining the fray is private investigator Finn, sharp-minded and resourceful, often finding himself one step ahead of the game. Adding an air of mystery is an enigmatic white-haired senior who seems to know more than he lets on, his cryptic comments leaving others guessing. These characters, along with a host of others, each bring unique skills and personalities into the mix, making the contest as much about understanding human nature as it is about strategy. Together, they weave a complex yet captivating tale of intrigue and competition.
After receiving a mysterious package and a threatening letter, Sara and Zoe find themselves at El Sueno, a grand, castle-like mansion. There, they encounter others who have been drawn into the same enigmatic situation—a game show-style competition with peculiar rules, strict disqualification regulations, and the promise of unimaginable wealth as the ultimate prize. But questions loom: What is the true purpose of this game? Who orchestrated and designed it, and why? And most importantly, why was Sara chosen to take part? The story invites readers to piece together the clues and uncover the truth before the contestants can.
The adventure begins with hidden safes, mathematical puzzles to crack the combinations, and clues leading to the next mystery. The author’s mastery of math invites readers to outsmart Sara, adding an intellectual twist to the journey. Even math skeptics will be drawn in by the witty dialogue, memorable characters, and captivating drama that bring the story to life.
Readers will be thrilled to unravel clues to the treasure, woven seamlessly into a captivating tapestry of intricate relationships.The striking contrast between Sara and Zoe—both in their physical differences and opposing personalities—paired with their sharp, sarcastic banter, adds a layer of charm that keeps the narrative engaging. Fast-paced and intellectually stimulating, this novel appeals to both young adults and sophisticated readers. It’s a story that not only hooks its audience but also inspires them to explore the author’s previous works and eagerly anticipate the next installment in the series.
Reviewed by: Carol W.
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