"The Mind Game" by M.G. Harris, published by Darkwater Books on April 4, 2024, is a high-stakes, fast-paced espionage thriller that promises to keep you on the edge of your seat. Thank you to Rockstar Book Tours and the author for including me on this tour, this 298-page novel takes readers into a whirlwind of global conflicts, tech-driven mysteries, and thrilling suspense as a teenage podcaster, Roni, searches for her missing childhood friend, Maxim Santiago. With its roots in the best-selling "Joshua Files" series, Harris has crafted yet another gripping story perfect for teens, young adults, and fans of pulse-pounding mysteries. Enter the giveaway before it ends!
My Review
Years after Maxim Santiago’s sudden disappearance at Dulles Airport, Roni is still haunted by his absence. Now 17 and famous for her podcast, she uses her platform to dig into the mystery that consumed her for years: What really happened to Maxim? With the help of her tech-savvy friend, Kenzie, Roni embarks on a dangerous quest that leads them into the shadowy world of human trafficking, cryptic codes, and global espionage.
Their journey takes them from the streets of Washington, D.C. to a remote Mexican town, where they come face-to-face with a ruthless Russian dictator who plays a deadly ‘Mind Game’ with his enemies. What they discover along the way is shocking: Maxim has been pulled into a secret mission involving trafficked children and a world-altering secret. As Roni and Kenzie dive deeper into Maxim’s dangerous plot, they risk their lives and their friendship.
What I Loved
The Mind Game grabbed my attention from the first chapter and refused to let go. Harris’s storytelling is immersive, with just the right balance of action, mystery, and emotional depth. Roni, the protagonist, is instantly likable—a determined, resourceful character driven by loyalty and curiosity. Her partnership with Kenzie adds a fun dynamic to the story, with their contrasting personalities keeping things lively.
The plot is layered with twists and turns, and the pacing is excellent, building tension as Roni and Kenzie inch closer to the truth. The geopolitical backdrop of the novel feels eerily current, and the themes of global conflicts and human trafficking are both timely and gripping. There’s also a lot of intrigue around Maxim’s transformation—he’s not the same boy Roni remembers, which adds a fascinating layer of complexity to their reunion.
What Could Be Improved
So far, I’m completely engrossed in the story, and I haven’t found anything to criticize. The tension is building, and I’m eagerly turning the pages to find out what happens next. I can’t wait to see how the plot develops and where the characters end up.
Themes and Takeaways
One of the most compelling aspects of The Mind Game is its exploration of friendship, trust, and self-discovery. Roni’s journey is more than just about finding Maxim—it’s about discovering her own strength and realizing what she’s truly capable of. The stakes are high, and the mission is dangerous, but at its core, the story is about relationships and the lengths people will go to for the ones they care about.
Additionally, the novel touches on important real-world issues, such as human trafficking and geopolitical strife, giving the reader a lot to think about beyond the thrilling plot. Harris does a great job of weaving these themes into the narrative without bogging down the story’s momentum.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a gripping YA thriller that’s packed with action, mystery, and heart, The Mind Game by M.G. Harris is a must-read. It’s a thrilling ride that will keep you hooked from the very first page to the last. With complex characters, a riveting plot, and timely themes, this book is perfect for fans of espionage, mysteries, and high-stakes adventures. I can already tell this will be one of my favorite reads of the year, and I highly recommend adding it to your reading list.
Rating🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 (5/5)
Where to Find It
You can find The Mind Game on Goodreads or read it for FREE with a Kindle Unlimited membership.
Thank you to Rockstar Book Tours and Darkwater Books for providing a copy of The Mind Game in exchange for an honest review!
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