Parents' Guide to

Code: Virals, Book 3

By Karen Wirsing, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 10+

Tory and friends fight serial killer in thrilling sequel.

Book Kathy Reichs, Brendan Reichs Mystery 2013
Code: Virals, Book 3 Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

Community Reviews

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age 13+

Based on 1 parent review

mtpleasantmom
mtpleasantmom Parent of 10 and 12-year-old
May 25, 2013
age 13+

Awesome & Violent

I thought the book was amazing and am now reading the rest of the series. The book has suspension, deception, and action. There wasn't one part where my eyes weren't glued to the book. However there is a lot of violence you need to watch out for. There is a crazed lunatic who makes up these "games" where people are murdered. In this book, there are bombs, poison gasses, poison, snare guns, explosions, bombs, other riffles, and hurricanes. Also, high school kids get drunk at a party, there is at least one curse word every couple of pages, and there is a mention of smoking once or twice. On the other hand though, the main characters, Tory, Hi, Ben, and Shelton, show bravery, friendship, and loyalty as they work together to protect themselves, their families, and their community.

This title has:

Great role models
Too much violence
Too much swearing
Too much drinking/drugs/smoking
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

Tory Brennan and her three best friends share a common trait unlike anyone else: They are part wolf. Their wolf-like traits allow them to kick their senses into overdrive at anytime, giving them the ability to hear, smell, and see danger that's not apparent to the average human. These senses come in handy when the foursome discovers a hidden geocache that leads them straight to a bomb. A letter is attached to the geocache inviting the kids to play a little game. If the kids refuse to join \"The Gamemaster\" on his or her twisted ride uncovering puzzles and riddles, they run the risk of being killed or killing hundreds of others. The rules are clear: no police and no help. Will Tory and her friends solve the mystery in time to save their community? And more important, will they catch The Gamemaster before more innocent lives are lost?

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (1):
Kids say (5):

CODE, the exciting third installment to the Virals series, explores more mature themes than the first two books, Virals and Seizure. Authors Kathy Reichs and Brendan Reichs take readers on a thrilling ride that introduces them to complex ideas. The novel offers insight into mental illness and how it affects society, and delves deep into the psychological impact of war (one character is an American soldier who fought in Iraq).

Although Code involves serious concepts, it has the entertaining qualities that made the first two books such fun. Readers are introduced to Southern Belle society and the festivities of a debutante ball, where couples canoodle in plantation-style mansions. Just remember as you enter the iron gates, you never know who you can trust!

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about mental illness. What are some different types of mental illness? How are these illnesses triggered? How does society help and care for those who suffer from mental illness?

  • How does Code compare with previous installments in the Virals series?

  • How do you think the paranormal aspect of the series mixes with gritty real-world issues like terrorism?

Book Details

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