Andrea Carter and the Family Secret

Do you like mysteries? Andi has had one kept from her her whole life. In Andrea Carter and the Family Secret, she encounters a half-dead man, a long-lost sister, and three rambunctious kids. Later she finds out that the same half-dead man is someone she should know. The book is about families sticking together no matter what. The main character is Andrea Carter and it is nice that the author put in that she is not perfect--which makes it more realistic. Also, there is Levi, an annoying nephew that actually turns out to be a not-so-annoying person at the end of the book. There is also Katherine, Andi's sister, and Troy. Andi, the main character, changes from a person that just wants to be left alone to a person that eventually loves the kids and her long-lost sister. The book is also like the Prodigal Son story. This book is a great book for girls AND boys. Everyone that likes Horses, Adventure, and the Wild West should read this book.

Reviewed by Sara McGinn (age 9) for Reader Views (2/09) "Andrea Carter and the Family Secret" by Susan K. Marlow is a story about a 12-year-old girl named Andrea who faces many challenges. They include finding a half-dead man and meeting her mysterious sister with three obnoxious children. Andrea soon finds out more about her runaway sister, Katherine. Andrea feels left out at first because her family never told her about Katherine. She even wishes Katherine and her children never came, but soon Andrea is beginning to like the children. There are many surprises in this book! You won't believe what happens from one chapter to the next. It is terrifically adventurous! The author did a wonderful job writing this book! My favorite parts in this book are when Andrea saves Levi, Betsy and Hannah from Troy and when Andrea finds out about the family secret. This book taught me about being brave, determined and courageous. I would not change a thing in this book. This book is written for 8-12 year olds but I think it should be for 7-12 year olds since it's not that difficult to read. I would also highly recommend "Andrea Carter and the Family Secret" by Susan K. Marlow to my friends!

Andrea has no idea the man she and her friends rescue isn't quite what he lets on, but she has other things to occupy her mind when she finds her home invaded by a woman and her three unruly kids. She has no desire to welcome the strangers into her home, especially when her eldest brother, on her insistence, reveals a family secret that devastates Andrea. Can she get past her hurt to protect those in her care? This book though it takes place in the past reminds me of my contemporary novel MY SUMMER JOURNAL: THE RESCUE because of its active young heroine who grows in her faith as she deals with very serious adventures. Read complete review at AUTHOR'S CHOICE REVIEWS [...]

Susan Marlow has done it again! FAMILY SECRET is full of suspense, humor and edge-of-your-seat action! The characters are fully rounded, but don't come across as "perfect". They call to the reader and engage them to be part of the story, not just onlookers. The imperfections found in the MC (such as impulsiveness, sometimes self-centeredness) reflects actions found in most everyone. THEN, when the MC displays courage, spunk and growth -- the reader is able to connect then, too. I'm way older than the target audience, but I was also able to relate - not just read! IF Andrea can grow... so can we! My daughter hasn't been able to put this book down (or ANY of Andrea's adventures!). We'll be waiting in line for the next one! Donna Earnhardt Concord, NC

Can you keep a secret? Andi Carter's family has kept one from her for her whole life, and when she finally finds out, she's stunned. Andi's pretty good at keeping secrets, too. She and her friends find a mysterious stranger who asks for a little help until he gets on his feet again. There's just one catch--the stranger asks Andi not to tell her family about him. She agrees, against the better judgment of her friends. The two secrets turn Andi's life upside down. She's no longer the youngest child at the ranch. Now, there are three younger kids and Andi has her hands full. If you thought the horses Andi loves are wild, wait until you meet these three rascals! Of course Andi's faithful palomino, Taffy, is back, but when it comes to a fierce thunderstorm, even Taffy has her limits. Andi is left alone with a desperate outlaw and the three kids to discover just how strong her family ties really are. Writer Susan Marlow shines as she brings Andi through this storm in her life. The timely story line about a broken family and forgiveness is a definite plus, with echoes of the Prodigal Son from the Gospel of Luke. This is a book your kids, grandkids, and even you will love, and that's no secret. Other Circle C Adventures you will enjoy: Andrea Carter and the Long Ride Home (Circle C Adventures #1) Andrea Carter and the Dangerous Decision (Circle C Adventures #2) Andrea Carter and the San Francisco Smugglers (Circle C Adventures #4)