In Woodard’s young adult novel, the story unfolds as heroic teenagers take on the mob in the 1920’s. Cousins Will and Tom chase curiosity and investigate a haunted barge moored along the Dix River. Their curiosity nearly gets them killed as they stumble upon dangerous gangsters. With quick wit, cleverness and courage beyond their years, they meld into an unstoppable pair of rookie detectives.

I couldn’t help but think of Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn as well as the Hardy Boys as I poured through this fast-paced teen adventure. ( )