PERCEPTION

This first sequel to Clarity (2011) delivers an even more involving, polished and downright nifty mystery.

Clare still lives at home with her family of psychics, but this episode emphasizes suspense more than the supernatural. She’s torn between ex-boyfriend Justin and hottie newcomer Gabriel (and will decide between them by the end of the book), but now she’s more interested in her new friend Mallory and the disappearance of a local girl. Her mom forbids her to help with the case, but Clare can’t stop herself from investigating. Mallory, a formerly shy girl who seems to be coming out of her shell, struggles to cope with events in their new friendship. Meanwhile, Clare worries that someone might be stalking her. The family’s psychic abilities, especially Clare’s ability to “read” objects, certainly play a part in the narrative, but Harrington more closely follows a standard mystery plot, tossing in some tasty red herrings, sprinkling clues throughout, building suspense and turning the tale at just the right time to keep readers involved. The supernatural element may entice some young readers to the book and then turn them into mystery fans. In any case, the believable characterizations, the suspense and the well-crafted plot twists score.

A smart, paranormal mystery ride.