[Andrew Tillet, Sara Wiggins & Inspector Wyatt 09] • The Case of the Watching Boy

Two English schoolboys inadvertently become involved in a kidnapping which strangely connects with the succession to the throne of Rumania. Andrew Tillett and his new friend Markham help a woman "rescue" her child, only to discover that things aren't as they seem. Suddenly, the boys and Andrew's Scotland Yard stepfather are involved in a matter of international intrigue.

"The ninth book in Newman's series about Andrew Tillet finds the youthful Victorian sleuth in trouble. The British lad and a classmate help a woman, "Mrs. Gray," recover her abducted three-year-old son from George, her former, mad husband. Too late, the trusting boys discover that they've been involved in a kidnap plot. Andrew's stepfather, inspector Peter Wyatt, takes over and brings along Andrew's mother, spiky young friend Sara and other valiant allies from earlier stories. Wyatt and his loyal band generate suspense as they battle a diabolic cabal aiming to usurp sovereignty of George's country. This is another dandy adventure with strong appeal for fans of the previous tales. Ages 8-12."

—*Publishers Weekly*, 1987

"Grade 5-8 Andrew is asked by his headmaster to keep an eye on his schoolmate Markham, who appears to be engaged in a questionable activity. He finds that Markham is involved in a scheme to rescue a child, and he helps out, only to discover that they are enmeshed in a kidnapping. With the help of Andrew's friend Sara, the boys assist Andrew's stepfather, Inspector Wyatt of Scotland Yard. The plot involves a murder, disguises, foreign agents and embassies, Gypsies, and a change in the future of Romania. The characters are likable, the pace quick, and the writing deft. An additional bonus is the Victorian London setting. This above average mystery continues the standard set by others in the series. Ellen Fader, Westport Public Library, Conn."

—*School Library Journal*