Curse of the Specter Queen

Tone and writing really reminded me of the 39 Clues (one of my favorite series) but a little older! It did still read a little young for college aged and is not that academically/nerdy as some other books– so definitely read more like upper MG/lower YA. I loved Sam & Bennett's relationship and Jo was a fun character too. It was nice how it was set in the 1920s, though I wish we got more of that vibe and more setting/world building on the train and steamer. I think the general premise/name of this “Specter Queen” and Ireland is a bit less appealing for an archaeology book (especially a first one) but it could've been aided by stronger world building and description. Despite this, still a fun time, well paced and looking forward to reading more in the series!

*SPOILER
Also, still SHOCKED by what happened to Alistair, and don't like that... it seemed too dark to fit in with the rest of the story -- the other fates seemed more justified, but not him... seemed like a bit of just a shock factor.