Code Name Komiko

Gr 7 Up—When it comes to Lian's life, appearances can be deceiving. On the outside she presents herself as a dutiful daughter and talented violinist, but she hides a deep secret. She is really part of a secret, underground group of cyber-investigators called 04/06 whose mission is to expose injustice and corruption around the world. One day while hanging out at the beach with her best friend, Lian happens upon the washed up dead body of a young girl. As she investigates further, she begins to suspect Harrison Corporation, a clothing company giant that has recently come to Hong Kong to do business with her father's company. As she probes deeper, Lian suspects Matt, the son of the Harrison Corporation's owner. She struggles to solve the mystery of the girl's death all while keeping a fragile hold on her secret life. This is a suspenseful, if uneven, thriller. Lian is a likable character but sometimes seems far more capable than her linited training would suggest. Lian's relationship with her best friend is spot-on, as is her desire to be a good daughter and her concern over her father's stress at work. The Hong Kong setting is fully realized and the descriptions of city life and different areas give the story an authentic feeling. Readers who enjoy a light thriller will appreciate this offering.—Necia Blundy, formerly at Marlborough Public Library, MA