Countdown Zero

From Chris Rylander, author of the breakout hit the Fourth Stall saga, comes the second book in the Codename Conspiracy series, a funny and clever mash-up of middle grade school story and spy adventure.

Ever since Carson Fender was let go by the secret agency that had enlisted his services to help foil a nefarious plot perpetrated by one of their former agents, he's been back to hanging with his friends, pulling pranks, and not having to lie to everyone about how he's spending his days. And that's for the best, isn't it?

Of course, this was all before a note showed up in his school lunch, informing him that Agent Nineteen had three days left to live, and that there might still be someone inside the Agency working against them. Carson has always been able to rely on his friends—but what happens when there's no one left to trust?

There are people in this world who live secret lives. There are people who fight the evil that lurks in the shadows so that the rest of us can live free from tyranny and fear. There are people—perhaps the person sitting across from you on the bus, or waiting tables at your favorite restaurant—who put it all on the line for us, every day, whose names we'll never know.

None of these people is Carson Fender.

At least, not since he was let go by the secret agency who enlisted his services to help foil a nefarious plot perpetrated by one of their former agents. Carson is back to hanging with his friends, pulling pranks, and not having to lie to everyone about how he's spending his days. And that's for the best. Isn't it?

Of course, this was all before a note showed up in his school lunch, informing him that Agent Nineteen has three days left to live, and that there might still be someone inside the Agency working against them. Carson has always been able to rely on his friends—but what happens when there's no one left to trust?

“An exciting, zippy read that will leave readers wondering if there’s more to their own hometowns than meets the eye.” - Kirkus Reviews, about Codename Zero

“Debut novelist Rylander mines a substantial amount of humor and heart from this combination hard-boiled crime novel and middle-grade character piece. A light and enjoyable caper.” - Publishers Weekly, about The Fourth Stall

“Readers will be flushed with excitement to follow Mac’s operations for the fourth stall.” - Kirkus Reviews, about The Fourth Stall Part II

“Rylander keeps up the delightful, boy-centric beat, mixing bravado, embarassments, and wisecracks with real wisdom.” - ALA Booklist, about The Fourth Stall Part III