SABOTAGE SEASON

Team co-captain and eighth-grader Devin returns (The Kicks: Saving the Team, 2013) for another tale of soccer teamwork, this time with a little sleuthing thrown in.

The Kentville Kangaroos started off the season poorly, but they find themselves in contention for a playoff berth. This opportunity sends Devin into overdrive as she plans practices, researches drills and watches the team rankings with an eagle eye. When more than one suspicious problem occurs, all eyes turn to Mirabelle, ex-teammate and ex–best friend of one of the Kangaroos. A gym bag goes missing, a practice field reservation is cancelled, and even a fake email from the coach is sent out. The girls bring their observations to the league director, who rebuffs them. Taking matters into their own hands, the girls plan their detective work and their revenge. But will they identify the saboteur in time to focus on the playoff game? Can they even concentrate as the boys’ team comes to watch them play? Morgan’s new soccer series is wholesome and simple. She portrays the mindset of a committed young soccer player well, bringing readers in on dreams and plans.

Although formulaic, the story’s fast pace and plot buildup will appeal to female athletes.