4 out of 4 stars
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Code Name: Dodger by Eric Auxier
I give this book 4 out of 4 stars.
The main character, Justin Reed, due to his running away from the orphanage and stealing the school bus with his friend Randy thought he was heading to juvy. After speaking with Dr. Cheney (Bob), a psychiatrist Justin learns that if he agrees to participate in a psychological experiment on environmentally challenged juveniles all charges against him will be dropped. Justin agrees to this deal but he soon learns that there aren't any experiments, he is leaving the orphanage for a reason he couldn't have guessed in a million years.
From there his life makes a dramatic turn, in a strange twist of fate his revenge for his father's murder and Dr. Chenney's real agenda coincide to bring the rest of the book into the world of spies, gangs, drug dealers, and espionage. Justin suggests he should be the bait, and all sorts of twists, suspense, action, and surprises unfold.
Although this book would be enjoyed by the teen audience, it is a book for all ages. The story unfolds quickly, with it hard to put down this book until you finish it! I thoroughly enjoyed this book from the first page until the last. I was hooked by about the 4th page.
The author chooses a setting at the orphanage at the start of the book which is something I don't run across every day. The characters at the orphanage are street wise and although they may not be perfect angels, they are very loyal friends and lovable characters. Although the book wasn't centered on the orphanage for a lengthy time, it was a very important part of the story and I already loved the characters by the time the book changed to other locales.
The way the relationships between Justin and other characters interact you can really feel the emotions and feelings he has for them. Whether it be Randy (friend who ran away with Justin), Bob ("psychiatrist" who really didn't want Justin's help in the experiments), or his dad's friend Carlos, the author really brings these characters to life.
The reason I gave this book 4 stars is because it held my interest in each page, there were multiple twists, and a great ending as well (where other books frequently lack in my opinion). It was well written, and I believe it will be a favorite for all ages.
I look forward to other books from this author!
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Code Name: Dodger
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