All Fall Down

Gr 8 Up—Carter fans will not want to miss this series launch. Sixteen-year-old Grace Blakely is sent to live with her grandfather, a diplomat stationed in Adria. She is determined to solve the mystery of her mother's death three years prior. Despite what the evidence and witnesses prove, Grace is sure of one fact: her mother's killer is out there, and she is going to prove it. The story introduces many characters who do not hesitate to assist Grace with her covert plan, but many of these relationships are not fully developed, thus promising more to come. A subtle hint of romance between Grace and one of the male characters will encourage readers to anticipate the next book in the series. Eileen Stevens does an excellent job of portraying the stuffy character of Grace's grandfather, the ambassador, as well as the various prime ministers and their family members. Her characterization of Grace is well presented; at times, Grace appears brave and fearless—but not always