Review by Frank Plowright

Bluewater Cove is the type of place where the inexplicable occurs so frequently it’s just considered normal by the locals. They’re currently experiencing a spate of crimes from previously unknown super powered types. That’s an added bonus for new resident Kaci Bell, who loves solving a mystery, and when a class nuisance who’s missed school for a while is revealed to be giant monster terrorising the neighbourhood, Kaci takes her chance to investigate.

Kaci’s not always the most careful or considered, which is an interesting twist on the usual teenage detective. John Gatehouse has her taking chances and making mistakes resulting in trouble for her, despite the good intentions. However, the plot is perpetuated by her only ever confiding in her friend Robyn, rather than telling adults the truth when confronted with behaviour making her look bad. She’s tenacious, though, and not one to be put off by a few minor setbacks.

Because Kaci’s investigation was first serialised online, experienced cartoonist Dave Windett has to pack a fair amount into every tier of panels to ensure story continuity, and he still manages to deliver full locations and surroundings. Primary characters Kaci and Robyn are distinctive, and there’s no mistaking one person for another, which isn’t always the case in young adult graphic novels.

There are only a limited amount of characters, so young adult readers will have additional fun attempting to work out who’s behind the problems before the big reveal near the end.

If you’d like to sample the strip before buying, it’s still online here, and you’ll also discover Gatehouse and Windett’s other collaborations.