Book Review :: Submarines, Secrets, and a Daring Rescue by Robert J. Skead with Robert A. Skead

Submarines, Secrets, and a Daring Rescue is a juvenile fiction novel written by father/son team Robert J. Skead and Robert A. Skead. This is the second book written in the American Revolutionary War Adventures series by the father/son duo. (The first book was Patriots, Redcoats, & Spies.) The Skeads have family ties to the Revolutionary War, so this series seems to be particularly special for them.

Submarines, Secrets, and a Daring Rescue is a 22-chapter, 206-page novel (the actual text of the story covers from page 9 through page 180). There is also some additional bonus material:

• Acknowledgements
• Note from the Storytellers
• Oath of Allegiance
• Discussion Questions
• Historical Characters
• Glossary
• Historical Letters

There are a few black and white/line art illustrations included, as well. (There are 9 total illustrations spread throughout the story.)

As for the story itself, the year is 1778 and teenage twin boys (John & Ambrose Clark) are tasked with getting gunpowder to the patriots during the Revolutionary War. Eventually, John & Ambrose find themselves piloting an early submarine (The Turtle). Their older brother, Berty, gets involved, too.

Submarines, Secrets, and a Daring Rescue keeps a good pace right from the start. The book is interesting, start-to-finish.   

I enjoyed reading Submarines, Secrets, and a Daring Rescue and have passed it on to my 9-year old son to read. Although there was no official mention of another book in the series, the ending certainly leaves it open for more. We will be keeping our eyes open for the possibility of another book, just incase.

FTC Declaration: The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book or advanced reading copy through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. This does not change the fact that I will give my honest opinion in my reviews.