• Booklist Reviews : Booklist Reviews 2023 March #1
  This sequel to McMullen's Secret of the Storm (2022) follows Cassie's further adventures with Albert (the dragon that transforms into her cat) and Joe, her best friend. Her mother and the town's librarian, now aware of Albert's secret identity, become very supportive, helping Cassie and Joe take the dragon on a search for those who can help him. Soon Albert returns to the Land of Dragons through a magical portal, along with Cassie and Joe. But when it becomes clear that the cat-dragon has unexpectedly left alone on an important mission, Joe and Cassie undertake a perilous quest through the dragon realm, hoping to find and, if necessary, rescue their friend from the evil dragon king who intends to execute him. Throughout the book, a subplot quietly unfolds in interspersed third-person chapters that focus on two FBI agents who are secretly attempting to find Albert. Telling the main story, Cassie's first-person narrative has good pacing, an eye for detail, and a certain wry humor. A lively adventure tale within the Secret of the Storm series. Grades 4-7. Copyright 2023 Booklist Reviews.

Beth McMullen is the author of the Mrs. Smith’s Spy School for Girls series; the Lola Benko, Treasure Hunter series; the Secret of the Storm series; and several adult mysteries. Her books have heroes and bad guys, action and messy situations. An avid reader, she once missed her subway stop and rode the train all the way to Brooklyn because the book she was reading was that good. She lives in northern California with her family and two cats. Visit her at BethMcMullenBooks.com.