Zeke Reynolds is frustrated to be back on Earth, where he is unable to keep his promise to rescue Tamret from her home planet, or to help his Confederation friends, who are facing a hostile takeover. Then, one day, he makes two important discoveries: (1) he has an alien AI living in his head, and (2) Phandic spaceships are threatening Earth and possibly after him. With the help of his new friend Alice, Zeke breaks into Area 51 and steals a spaceship, fleeing to the Confederation, where he is unexpectedly met by violence and accusations of murder. Liss' sequel to Randoms (2015) stays true to its predecessor, with its abundant sci-fi references and creatures. As a good sequel should, it ups the game with several deaths and the eerie AI voice in Zeke's head. Liss' world building gains complexity, allowing a deeper, darker story to emerge. Issues of family and trust are seriously addressed and revelations toward the novel's end make sense even while they surprise, paving the way for the next installment.--Moore, Melissa Copyright 2016 Booklist

After Zeke's intergalactic heroics (Randoms), returning to normal life on Earth is hard, especially with an advanced A.I. named Smelly in his brain. But Zeke is a determined kid, and along with UFO fanatic Alice, he breaks into Area 51 to steal a spaceship and save Earth--again. Fans of humor, science fiction, and adventure will love this second thrilling space romp. (c) Copyright 2017. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.