This was, in fact, better than the first book. Lots of action, with the kids helping the police solve crimes, and the twin from the first book out for revenge. It was a very fun read, with a great story and colorful characters. There's even a bit of an adult bromance. In a children's book, no less!

That being said, I really don't understand how Chris goes from being a dirty little thief, who lies, cheats, and steals all he can, to this self-sacrificing boy who longs to save the boy that's trying to kill him. How does that work? They're two completely different characters. There was no transition. In the first book, he went from being this thief, to Trustworthy Chris, who will do anything to help. A boy who will sacrifice anything just to help out his sick mum. And then, in this book, here is more of the same. Now he's even more self-sacrificing. I don't get it. There was no character arc. He just was one way, and 10 seconds later, he's Trustworthy Chris. Go figure.

All that aside, it's still a great book. I really hope there will be another book in this series, because I'm dying to find out what happens next. ( )