This is the first book in the York series. I really enjoyed this book. It was well written and creative. It would be an excellent read for middle grade and older readers who enjoy mysteries in a futuristic setting.

The story is set in an alternate New York that has better technology than our New York because of the Morningstarr family of geniuses. Some kids band together to solve the Old York Cipher in an effort find the Moringstarr treasure. They hope to use the treasure to save their apartment from a evil developer named Slant who is trying to buy out old Morningstarr buildings and replace them with condos.

I loved the alternate world and really enjoyed the puzzles and mysteries throughout. I loved all the talk and information about cryptography and ciphers; it was fascinating. The characters are well done and the mystery is really what drives the story. I read this out loud to my 11 year old son and the whole family really enjoyed it.

Overall I really enjoyed this mystery set in an alternate high tech New York City. Not much is resolved in this book, but it does stop at a good place. I am eager to continue with the series.

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