A parent might reach for this book when their teen craves a high-octane thriller that's more about wits and survival than graphic violence. This book follows 15-year-old Cal Ormond, a fugitive on a desperate 365-day quest to solve a deadly family mystery and clear his name. In this installment, the danger escalates as Cal gets closer to the truth, forcing him to rely on his courage, resilience, and the loyalty of his few trusted friends. The story powerfully models perseverance under extreme pressure and explores themes of justice and bravery. It is ideal for readers aged 12-16 who enjoy relentless suspense and a resourceful protagonist fighting against impossible odds.
High-stakes suspense and a constant sense of being hunted by powerful criminals.
Sad ThemesMild
The protagonist is grieving the past death of his father.
Sensitive Topics
The central premise is driven by the death of a parent (Cal's father, which happened before the series began) and the attempted murder of family members. The approach is plot-driven and secular. The resolution within this book is one of small progress: Cal survives and gains a new clue, but the overarching conflict remains, creating a realistic sense of ongoing struggle.
Ideal Reader
A 12 to 15-year-old who loves action movies and video games, and may be a reluctant reader. This reader is captivated by relentless pacing, cliffhangers, and a "beat the clock" scenario. They respond well to a capable, self-reliant protagonist who is constantly outsmarting adults in a high-stakes world.
Parent Prep
No specific prep needed. While it is book 9 of 12, each installment provides enough context to be exciting on its own. Parents should know the violence is persistent but not graphic (more "thriller" than "horror"). The book can be read cold without issue. The parent notices their child is bored by slower-paced, character-driven novels and says things like "nothing ever happens in this book." They are looking for something with the immediate excitement of a movie to get their teen reading and keep them engaged.
Age Experience
A 12-year-old will focus on the thrill of the chase, the clever escapes, and the empowering "kid vs. the world" fantasy. A 15 or 16-year-old might better appreciate the complexities of the conspiracy plot, the themes of betrayal and trust, and the sheer grit and determination Cal displays as a character.
What Makes It Special
Its real-time, month-by-month structure is unique, creating an immersive, high-stakes countdown. Unlike many YA mysteries that focus on a single crime, this series builds a vast, interconnected conspiracy, making it feel epic in scope. It reads like a season of the show "24" for a teen audience.
Read plot summary
The ninth book in the "Conspiracy 365" series. Protagonist Cal Ormond, a 15-year-old fugitive, continues his year-long quest to solve his father's mysterious death and clear his own name. He follows cryptic clues related to the "Ormond Singularity," evading capture by both the police and two rival crime syndicates. The action is continuous, involving chases, break-ins, and narrow escapes as the overarching conspiracy deepens.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Winter is one of Cal's most important allies, but their friendship often puts her in great danger. Do you think Cal is right to continue accepting her help? When is it fair to let a friend take a risk for you?
2
To survive and find the truth, Cal has to break laws, like breaking and entering. Do his motivations make his actions justifiable? Where would you draw the line between right and wrong in his situation?
3
The book is filled with cliffhangers and narrow escapes. Which of Cal's escapes in 'September' did you find the most clever or the most suspenseful, and why?
4
Cal often feels completely isolated. How does the author show his resilience and internal strength, even when he has no one to turn to in a moment of crisis?
