Bea and her brother Chris eagerly anticipate a castle tour of Portugal with their cousins, Tony and Daniel. The quartet, accompanied by their witty avian companion, Jack the Crow, set off on a guided exploration of fortresses, keeps, and monasteries. Alongside the primarily elderly tourists, Bea and her family soon discover that a particular pair of middle-aged women seem to harbor ill intentions toward the children. As their journey unfolds, the young Adventurers uncover a perilous scheme while investigating Portugal’s historic castles. Finally, at nightfall, the foursome finds themselves fighting for survival within the enigmatic stone halls of an ancient monastery.

The Adventurers and the Underground River by Isabel Ricardo is the second book in this mysterious and entertaining series. This exciting story can be read as a standalone book or after reading book 1 because the author provides ample backstory to familiarize readers with the main characters. The four cousins—spirited Bea, intellectual Chris, composed Tony, and witty Daniel—are instantly endearing, as is their loyal friend, Jack the Crow. The vivid portrayal of Portugal’s history, from battles and warriors to noble kings and sagacious monks, is thoroughly captivating. The tale of Queen Inez and King Pedro is particularly enchanting, demonstrating the author’s ability to weave engaging historical elements into an action-packed narrative. Echoing the timeless charm of Hardy Boys and Bobbsey Twins mysteries, this adventure is laden with exhilarating action and enlightening historical content. With mild language and the presence of firearms, the story is an ideal choice for readers aged 10 and up who appreciate intelligent, intrepid heroes collaborating to save the day. The thrilling conclusion leaves ample opportunity for future escapades in this world.

The Adventurers and the Underground River is a riveting young adult novel that takes middle-grade readers on an unforgettable adventure. This engaging tale is a valuable addition to any home library, perfect for those who cherish classic, lighthearted mysteries reminiscent of a bygone era.

Pages: 210 | ISBN : 1949868850

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/03/30/the-adventurers-and-the-underground-river/