National Archive Hunters: Eternal Flame

Gr 4-7–This second volume in the “National Archive Hunters” series propels readers directly back into twins Ike and Iris Carter’s high-stakes world of danger and intrigue. With their first case concluded, the siblings are now training in anticipation of retaliation from the mysterious Cincinnatus for their role in his apparent downfall. They do not know Cincinnatus’s true identity, so the twins and their parents remain on constant alert. As Ike and Iris attempt to resume normal school life, it quickly becomes clear that “normal” no longer exists. This unease intensifies with the arrival of former adversary Luna Laurent, who has transferred to their school. A brief sense of stability emerges when Ike and Iris’s family is called in for another case, but shifting alliances and the still-looming presence of Cincinnatus keep the tension high. The action-packed mystery maintains a brisk pace and delivers ample suspense for adventure-loving middle-grade readers. This outlandish novel featuring child spies also thoughtfully integrates discussion of mental health, offering a meaningful layer of emotional realism. Anxiety and panic attacks are addressed with sensitivity, and seeking a therapist’s help is portrayed as necessary and normal.