The Rival Campers Ashore The Mystery of the Mill   By: Ruel Perley Smith (1869-1937)

In "The Rival Campers Ashore: The Mystery of the Mill" by Ruel Perley Smith, readers are taken on a thrilling adventure filled with mystery, cunning schemes, and unexpected twists. This second installment in the Rival Campers series follows a group of friends who find themselves caught up in an enigmatic puzzle during their summer holidays.

The story begins with the main protagonist, Roy Blakely, setting out with his friends to explore new territories. Their destination is an abandoned water mill rumored to be haunted. As they delve into the secrets of the mill, they come across a mysterious note that leads them on a quest to uncover the truth about a missing treasure. This discovery sparks an exciting and suspenseful adventure involving hidden clues, coded messages, and an elusive group of rivals determined to beat them to the treasure.

What makes this book captivating is the author's ability to create believable and relatable characters. Roy Blakely is a resourceful, intelligent, and confident young man who proves to be a natural leader. His friends, including resourceful Tuck, quick-thinking Penny, and skillful Pee-wee, all add their own unique personalities to the story, making for a well-rounded group of protagonists. Their unwavering loyalty to one another further strengthens the bond of friendship as they face countless challenges together.

Smith's pacing is commendable, keeping the plot moving at a swift pace without overwhelming readers. The narrative seamlessly weaves between description, dialogue, and action, making it easy to visualize the scenes and connect with the characters. Moreover, the author's attention to detail in describing the settings and locations helps to immerse readers in the story's world, envisioning the eerie atmosphere surrounding the abandoned mill.

The mystery element in the book is well-crafted, ensuring readers remain engaged throughout the story. The clues and puzzles cleverly integrate historical references, adding an educational aspect to the adventure. This inclusion allows young readers to learn about local history and culture while fueling their curiosity and encouraging critical thinking.

One minor drawback of this book is that the antagonists lack depth and development. While the group of rivals adds an element of suspense and competition to the story, their motives and personalities remain somewhat one-dimensional. A more thorough exploration of their characters would have added depth and complexity to the plot.

Overall, "The Rival Campers Ashore: The Mystery of the Mill" is an enjoyable and action-packed read. Smith effectively combines elements of mystery, friendship, and adventure to create a compelling tale for young readers. This book is perfect for those who enjoy thrilling mysteries and relatable characters who collaborate to overcome challenges.

First Page:

The morning train from Benton, rumbling and puffing along its way through outlying farmland, and sending its billows of smoke like sea rollers across the pastures, drew up, ten miles from the city, at a little station that overlooked a pond, lying clear and sparkling at the base of some low, wooded hills... Continue reading book >>