Red Rock Mysteries: Haunted Waters 1

Jenkins (the Left Behind series) and Fabry (the Left Behind: The Kids series) temporarily leave behind their previous projects for this action-packed series for middle-graders. Thirteen-year-old twins Bryce and Ashley are starting to take to their new life in Colorado as part of their blended family, which now includes stepfather Sam and a teenage stepsister. After all, who wouldn't want to ride ATV's to school instead of the bus? Ashley and Bryce have typical teen concerns, too: grappling with bullies at school and struggling with when to share your Christian beliefs with friends (and the stand it may force one to take). But on a weekend adventure with Sam to a nearby Gold Rush–era exhibit, things get out of control in a hurry. The Timberline clan is inadvertently drawn into a burglary scheme that has them warding off a stalker and fighting for their lives. Jenkins and Fabry know their way around a suspenseful tale, and readers will enjoy taking the roller-coaster ride with this realistic family. Ashley's occasional discussions of her Christian faith are not center stage, but still an essential, believable part of her character, allowing readers an open door to ponder their own beliefs while enjoying a good yarn. Ages 8-12. (May)