Maggie M. Larche's "The Mardi Gras Chase"

Title: Masks, Mayhem, Mysteries & More!

“The Mardi Gras Chase” by Maggie M. Larche

Reviewed by B. Smart

2/18/16

4:28 p.m.

Love puzzles, clues, and hidden treasure hunts? The Mardi Gras Chase is a heart-warming story about three friends in Mobile, Alabama who go on an adventure to decipher a mysterious code hidden in the Mardi Gras parades. 12-year-old Melanie Smythurst is bored of her small town and wishes desperately that her life was more interesting. Her dream comes true one night when she notices crooked letters on some of the parade floats. As Melanie and her two friends Faye and Kate collect more clues and delve deeper into the mystery, they uncover one of the biggest secrets they could have ever imagined.

Author Maggie M. Larche tells a wonderfully fun tale filled with humor, heart, and wit. Her characters are endearing, energetic, and clever and the reader roots for them until the very end. It is enjoyable, fast-paced, and a must-read during the Mardi Gras season. The Mardi Gras Chase is a story about the importance of friendship, loyalty, and trust. The three friends stick together in the best of times and the worst of times- even if it means braving a spooky graveyard or sneaking into a sketchy warehouse.

The Mardi Gras Chase tends to be a little under-detailed and dialogue-heavy at times, but this is to be expected for a middle-grade read. Larche’s characters appear goofy and surface-level, but that is part of their charm; they also have immense courage, sharp minds, and kind hearts. Melanie, Faye, and Kate would do anything for the ones they love which sets a great example for children of all ages.

I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a good, wholesome mystery.

I give “The Mardi Gras Chase” 4 out of 5 stars.

Cheers,

B. Smart