"Confessions of a Junior Spy": A Fast-Paced Adventure with Room to Grow
- Kim Bartosch
- Jul 1
- 3 min read
Confessions of a Junior Spy by Rosaria Munda is a fast-paced middle-grade adventure that introduces readers to Bea, a young girl raised in the Pangean Hotel—a sanctuary for spies. Determined to follow in her mother's footsteps, Bea faces challenges that test her skills and aspirations. Discover my review of this high-paced spy story below!
Thank you to Feiwel & Friends and Netgalley.com for the ARC and my honest review.
About the Book:
Title: Confessions of a Junior Spy
Author: Rosaria Munda
Publisher: Macmillan Children's Publishing Group | Feiwel & Friends
Release Date: June 10, 2025
Source: ARC via NetGalley.com
Book Buy Links: Amazon | B&N | Bookshop.org
Synopsis:
Raised in a sanctuary hotel for spies, the daughter of one of its top agents is determined to follow in her mother’s footsteps and use her hard-won spy skills to help others in Confessions of a Junior Spy, a fun, fast-paced, middle grade series opener by Rosaria Munda.
Bea dreams of becoming a spy like her mom. Growing up in the Pangean Hotel, a secret sanctuary for spies, she spends her time studying self-defense, languages, codebreaking, and field medicine, preparing for the day when she can follow in her mother’s footsteps. But her mom has a different plan for Bea: She wants Bea to attend boarding school like one of the normal folk. Bea can’t think of a worse fate, the Life is all she’s ever known. But you do not say no to the Pangean League’s top spy.
While Bea is juggling test prep and applications with desperate plans to avoid going to normal school at all costs, a new girl moves into the hotel with her family. Chantal’s family is clearly on the run, and Bea and her best friend Tommy are certain they can use their skills and knowledge to help her…. If boarding school doesn’t get in the way first.
My Review "Confessions of a Junior Spy" by Rosaria Munda
Bea's life at the Pangean Hotel is anything but ordinary. Surrounded by spies and immersed in training, she's eager to prove herself. However, her mother's insistence on a "normal" life at boarding school introduces conflict and a journey of self-discovery.
🧠 The "Knack" Concept
The idea of "knacks"—unique skills each character possesses—is intriguing but occasionally feels disconnected from the spy theme. While Bea's eventual knack aligns with her aspirations, others, like cleaning or cooking, seem less relevant to espionage, potentially leaving young readers puzzled.
🧍 Character Development
Bea's character, while central, sometimes lacks depth, making it challenging to fully connect with her journey. In contrast, supporting characters like her best friend Tommy and newcomer Chantal bring vibrancy and relatability to the narrative.
🌀 Plot and Pacing
The story excels in its brisk pacing and engaging plot twists. Bea's mission to assist Chantal's family adds suspense and keeps readers invested. The blend of spy missions with everyday challenges creates a dynamic and entertaining read.
🎯 Final Thoughts
Confessions of a Junior Spy offers an exciting premise and a world ripe for exploration. While certain elements could be more cohesive, the book lays a solid foundation for future installments. Young readers seeking adventure and a touch of mystery will find much to enjoy.
🔍 Notable Mentions
The Pangean Hotel's unique setting provides a rich backdrop for the story.
Themes of identity, family expectations, and friendship are woven throughout.
The book sets the stage for sequels, with potential for deeper character development and expanded world-building.
Meet the Author:
Rosaria Munda is the author of Confessions of a Junior Spy and the Aurelian Cycle (Fireborne, Flamefall, and Furysong). Her career in espionage has included stints as a hotel cleaner, a boarding school admissions officer, and several jobs abroad in Paris and Beijing. Rosaria was last seen living with her family in northern Florida.
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