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Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys: Super Mystery #3
Shock Waves
AMERICA'S TOP TEEN DETECTIVES TEAM UP TO DIVE FOR DEADLY TREASURE
Nancy Drew and her boyfriend, Ned, are among the guests invited to plush Padre Island, on the Gulf Coast. Everyone's geared up for spring break, including Frank and Joe Hardy. The brother detectives happen to be staying at the home of wealthy friend Buck Calhoun. While scuba diving, Buck makes a play for Nancy, which Ned intercepts. But the games end when Buck finds a sunken wreck--and a very dead body.
Meanwhile...
Padre Island's social set is raided by a squad of resort sharks. The sophisticated crime ring has ripped off a fortune in loot. But they've never left a clue--until they snatch a pair of melted keys belonging to Joe Hardy. The worthless keys have deep personal value for the young sleuth. And he vows to track them down--no matter what the risk...
Nancy Drew and her boyfriend, Ned, are among the guests invited to plush Padre Island, on the Gulf Coast. Everyone's geared up for spring break, including Frank and Joe Hardy. The brother detectives happen to be staying at the home of wealthy friend Buck Calhoun. While scuba diving, Buck makes a play for Nancy, which Ned intercepts. But the games end when Buck finds a sunken wreck--and a very dead body.
Meanwhile...
Padre Island's social set is raided by a squad of resort sharks. The sophisticated crime ring has ripped off a fortune in loot. But they've never left a clue--until they snatch a pair of melted keys belonging to Joe Hardy. The worthless keys have deep personal value for the young sleuth. And he vows to track them down--no matter what the risk...
224 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 1989
5 people are currently reading
570 people want to read
About the author
Carolyn Keene
985 books3,861 followersCarolyn Keene is a writer pen name that was used by many different people- both men and women- over the years. The company that was the creator of the Nancy Drew series, the Stratemeyer Syndicate, hired a variety of writers. For Nancy Drew, the writers used the pseudonym Carolyn Keene to assure anonymity of the creator.
Edna and Harriet Stratemeyer inherited the company from their father Edward Stratemeyer. Edna contributed 10 plot outlines before passing the reins to her sister Harriet. It was Mildred Benson (aka: Mildred A. Wirt), who breathed such a feisty spirit into Nancy's character. Mildred wrote 23 of the original 30 Nancy Drew Mystery Stories®, including the first three. It was her characterization that helped make Nancy an instant hit. The Stratemeyer Syndicate's devotion to the series over the years under the reins of Harriet Stratemeyer Adams helped to keep the series alive and on store shelves for each succeeding generation of girls and boys. In 1959, Harriet, along with several writers, began a 25-year project to revise the earlier Carolyn Keene novels. The Nancy Drew books were condensed, racial stereotypes were removed, and the language was updated. In a few cases, outdated plots were completely rewritten.
Other writers of Nancy Drew volumes include Harriet herself, she wrote most of the series after Mildred quit writing for the Syndicate and in 1959 began a revision of the first 34 texts. The role of the writer of "Carolyn Keene" passed temporarily to Walter Karig who wrote three novels during the Great Depression. Also contributing to Nancy Drew's prolific existence were Leslie McFarlane, James Duncan Lawrence, Nancy Axelrod, Priscilla Doll, Charles Strong, Alma Sasse, Wilhelmina Rankin, George Waller Jr., and Margaret Scherf.
Edna and Harriet Stratemeyer inherited the company from their father Edward Stratemeyer. Edna contributed 10 plot outlines before passing the reins to her sister Harriet. It was Mildred Benson (aka: Mildred A. Wirt), who breathed such a feisty spirit into Nancy's character. Mildred wrote 23 of the original 30 Nancy Drew Mystery Stories®, including the first three. It was her characterization that helped make Nancy an instant hit. The Stratemeyer Syndicate's devotion to the series over the years under the reins of Harriet Stratemeyer Adams helped to keep the series alive and on store shelves for each succeeding generation of girls and boys. In 1959, Harriet, along with several writers, began a 25-year project to revise the earlier Carolyn Keene novels. The Nancy Drew books were condensed, racial stereotypes were removed, and the language was updated. In a few cases, outdated plots were completely rewritten.
Other writers of Nancy Drew volumes include Harriet herself, she wrote most of the series after Mildred quit writing for the Syndicate and in 1959 began a revision of the first 34 texts. The role of the writer of "Carolyn Keene" passed temporarily to Walter Karig who wrote three novels during the Great Depression. Also contributing to Nancy Drew's prolific existence were Leslie McFarlane, James Duncan Lawrence, Nancy Axelrod, Priscilla Doll, Charles Strong, Alma Sasse, Wilhelmina Rankin, George Waller Jr., and Margaret Scherf.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
April 1, 2012
#3 on my Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys Super Mystery re-read of 2012.
CHECKLIST:
• A compelling and interesting mystery. no
•Joe Frank flirting with all the females. √ (actually, Frank just flirted with one girl but since Joe was being all "Iola, I LOST YOUR CAR KEYS WAAHHH", I'm letting Frank count for this one)
• Surprising twists. (ehhhh...not really. Of course however, I was getting confused with all the people and different plotline running through and by the end, I didn't care who did it just that the book was nearly over)
• Nancy trying to ignore her attraction toward Frank due to the fact they are both seeing other people but still lusting after him anyways √ (half a check actually. She only mentioned Frank like that 2 or 3 times as opposed to the 7 we usually have in these books and the jealously came from another guy hitting on her and Ned being upset which was weird because hello, WE ALL KNOW YOU ARE IN LOVE WITH FRANK)
•George Bess getting attached and then her heart (almost) broken by a new guy. (no. and that disappointed me. why no flirt Bess? Why?)
• Joe or Frank or Nancy or George or Bess getting almost killed/murdered/maimed/kidnapped/locked away etc before being rescued at the last possible minute by one (or two or three) of the others √√√√√√√ (seriously, I think in one twenty page span I counted three near deaths experiences that occurred in like 12 consecutive hours. I LOVED THAT)
• A happy ending that wouldn't have come around if the teenage detectives hadn't figured it out. √
MY THOUGHTS: Too. Many. Characters. Honestly. Look, I get it. Nancy and Bess and George and Ned and Frank and Joe are all invited to go on an island with some friends for the week because that is what happens when you are a teenager detective and you + all your friends have money. But when you add the six of them plus the three new friends who invited them (Buck, Mercedes, Claire) plus all the usual suspects/friends (like four or five by last count) they make on their stay, it's a lot of people to try and keep track of on the pages. And a lot of stupid jealously that was unnecessary but happened because there was just so many characters. I never thought I'd say this about a NDHB super mystery, but I was glad when it was over. As of right now, this is my least favorite book of the series. Although, because I'm not totally against ALL parts of this book, I did enjoy this exchange here:
Nancy grimaced at the sight of Frank, Joe, Ned, and Buck curled uncomfortably on blankets spread across the tile floor. At least she didn't feel bad waking them -they'd probably be grateful.
"Good morning," she said softly.
No answer.
"Time to get up, guys."
Still nothing. There had to be some way to rouse them.
"Who wants bacon with their eggs?" she tried.
Joe's eyes flickered. "Ugh, is it morning already?"
NEVER CHANGE JOE HARDY. NEVER CHANGE. You made this book worth it just for making me laugh here. ♥
CHECKLIST:
• A compelling and interesting mystery. no
•
• Surprising twists. (ehhhh...not really. Of course however, I was getting confused with all the people and different plotline running through and by the end, I didn't care who did it just that the book was nearly over)
• Nancy trying to ignore her attraction toward Frank due to the fact they are both seeing other people but still lusting after him anyways √ (half a check actually. She only mentioned Frank like that 2 or 3 times as opposed to the 7 we usually have in these books and the jealously came from another guy hitting on her and Ned being upset which was weird because hello, WE ALL KNOW YOU ARE IN LOVE WITH FRANK)
•
• Joe or Frank or Nancy or George or Bess getting almost killed/murdered/maimed/kidnapped/locked away etc before being rescued at the last possible minute by one (or two or three) of the others √√√√√√√ (seriously, I think in one twenty page span I counted three near deaths experiences that occurred in like 12 consecutive hours. I LOVED THAT)
• A happy ending that wouldn't have come around if the teenage detectives hadn't figured it out. √
MY THOUGHTS: Too. Many. Characters. Honestly. Look, I get it. Nancy and Bess and George and Ned and Frank and Joe are all invited to go on an island with some friends for the week because that is what happens when you are a teenager detective and you + all your friends have money. But when you add the six of them plus the three new friends who invited them (Buck, Mercedes, Claire) plus all the usual suspects/friends (like four or five by last count) they make on their stay, it's a lot of people to try and keep track of on the pages. And a lot of stupid jealously that was unnecessary but happened because there was just so many characters. I never thought I'd say this about a NDHB super mystery, but I was glad when it was over. As of right now, this is my least favorite book of the series. Although, because I'm not totally against ALL parts of this book, I did enjoy this exchange here:
Nancy grimaced at the sight of Frank, Joe, Ned, and Buck curled uncomfortably on blankets spread across the tile floor. At least she didn't feel bad waking them -they'd probably be grateful.
"Good morning," she said softly.
No answer.
"Time to get up, guys."
Still nothing. There had to be some way to rouse them.
"Who wants bacon with their eggs?" she tried.
Joe's eyes flickered. "Ugh, is it morning already?"
NEVER CHANGE JOE HARDY. NEVER CHANGE. You made this book worth it just for making me laugh here. ♥
June 17, 2025
This one I find was different than most Nancy Drew mysteries. They didn't really suspect anybody until the second half of the book and they didn't seem to do as much sleuthing as usual.
Also, I don't understand how you can have a book about murder but not mention pop instead of beer. Like, really? It's obvious that those guys were drinking beer, not pop.
Also, I don't understand how you can have a book about murder but not mention pop instead of beer. Like, really? It's obvious that those guys were drinking beer, not pop.
November 7, 2022
Cleanliness: There is probably more romance in this than parents realize. Message me to request this be bumped to the top of the list so you can clean up your child's copy!
**Like my reviews? Then you should follow me! Because I have hundreds more just like this one. With each review, I provide a Cleanliness Report, mentioning any objectionable content I come across so that parents and/or conscientious readers (like me) can determine beforehand whether they want to read a book or not. Content surprises are super annoying, especially when you’re 100+ pages in, so here’s my attempt to help you avoid that!
So Follow or Friend me here on GoodReads! You’ll see my updates as I’m reading and know which books I’m liking and what I’m not finishing and why. You’ll also be able to utilize my library for looking up titles to see whether the book you’re thinking about reading next has any objectionable content or not. From swear words, to romance, to bad attitudes (in children’s books), I cover it all!
**Like my reviews? Then you should follow me! Because I have hundreds more just like this one. With each review, I provide a Cleanliness Report, mentioning any objectionable content I come across so that parents and/or conscientious readers (like me) can determine beforehand whether they want to read a book or not. Content surprises are super annoying, especially when you’re 100+ pages in, so here’s my attempt to help you avoid that!
So Follow or Friend me here on GoodReads! You’ll see my updates as I’m reading and know which books I’m liking and what I’m not finishing and why. You’ll also be able to utilize my library for looking up titles to see whether the book you’re thinking about reading next has any objectionable content or not. From swear words, to romance, to bad attitudes (in children’s books), I cover it all!
November 11, 2023
My personal favorite series are Nancy drew and Hardy boys.
This book is full of suspense and excitement that keeps you guessing.
Rate: 5 Stars
Story: Off the charts!! The story was definitely entertaining.
Romance: Love triangle between Nancy, Ned(boyfriend) and Frank Hardy. Nancy deals with her emotions of both of them. But there is always attraction between Frank and Nancy even though they are in separate relationships.
Suspense: The suspense was definitely there about who would attack their friend, Buck and gain benefit from it. Also there is a mystery about hidden treasure.
Racing through time Nancy and the Hardy boys solve the mystery and save each other from unknown threats. There is kidnapping, murder, theft and blackmail.
Definitely a must read!!
This book is full of suspense and excitement that keeps you guessing.
Rate: 5 Stars
Story: Off the charts!! The story was definitely entertaining.
Romance: Love triangle between Nancy, Ned(boyfriend) and Frank Hardy. Nancy deals with her emotions of both of them. But there is always attraction between Frank and Nancy even though they are in separate relationships.
Suspense: The suspense was definitely there about who would attack their friend, Buck and gain benefit from it. Also there is a mystery about hidden treasure.
Racing through time Nancy and the Hardy boys solve the mystery and save each other from unknown threats. There is kidnapping, murder, theft and blackmail.
Definitely a must read!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 1, 2025
First of all i have to laugh at Luisa’s post on here about the “romance” aspect of the book and she makes it appear as if it wouldn’t be appropriate for the actual targeted audience, which are young adults. What little bit of “romance” there may be is very G rated and fits in with the Casefiles relaunch that is prominent throughout both the Casefiles series. 🤦🏻 How do some people survive in this world.
Long story short: Your average run-of-the-mill mystery story that felt more like a regular mystery than a super mystery. Wasn’t as big and bold as some of the other team up super mysteries but still fun.
Long story short: Your average run-of-the-mill mystery story that felt more like a regular mystery than a super mystery. Wasn’t as big and bold as some of the other team up super mysteries but still fun.
August 20, 2021
I loved Nancy Drew when I was a kid/teen and read so many of her books. I also enjoyed the Hardy Boys books although I wasn't as prolific. What I absolutely loved was this crossover series. I still have a few of these lying around so when I needed a bit of a brain break on a whim I picked this one. This was a nostalgic read more then anything else. I liked the mystery and the detective team of Nancy, Ned, Frank, and Joe, were a hoot. I totally could have done without the relationship drama but other then that it was a fun read.
April 30, 2025
Take a drink every time someone says “cigarette boat.”
A lot of action and a lot of characters. Didn’t guess the culprit(s). There’s scuba diving, a dead body in a shipwreck, stolen jewelry, jellyfish sting, jet ski explosion, boat explosion (I now know what shock waves are), two kidnappings, a murder, guns, knives, lots of Mexican food, and worms and pop being thrown at someone.
Takes place during spring break on an island off the coast of Texas.
Buddy read with Mystery Maven
Published in 1989
A lot of action and a lot of characters. Didn’t guess the culprit(s). There’s scuba diving, a dead body in a shipwreck, stolen jewelry, jellyfish sting, jet ski explosion, boat explosion (I now know what shock waves are), two kidnappings, a murder, guns, knives, lots of Mexican food, and worms and pop being thrown at someone.
Takes place during spring break on an island off the coast of Texas.
Buddy read with Mystery Maven
Published in 1989
December 30, 2022
It was a great read. Used to read mystery books a lot when I was a kid. Took bout 4 hours to read this. Just taking my time really. Lots of great characters, story was great, suspense, thrills, adventure, you name it. Love how the true criminal wasn't named till near end but I did suspect his accomplice by their behavior. Loved this and now I gotta go and look for more
December 22, 2020
This book was awesome! I didn't think I would like it and then I read it and it was great! Fully recommend!
March 4, 2021
The perfect beach read! Loved it!
September 24, 2021
Nostalgia's a b*tch.
August 3, 2022
solid story
October 3, 2022
So glad Ned survived. Honestly, hardest part of reading this series is knowing that Nancy still won't end up with Frank...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2023
I loved this! I adore the original Nancy Drew novels, but this one had a more modern vibe and I loved the Hardy Boys being in the same book!
Read
January 30, 2024They have destroyed the old Nancy Drew. Ugh
June 11, 2024
So fun!
Read
December 16, 2024More quality reads happening. 🤣
January 25, 2025
It was fun! A cute mystery that made sense in the end which I love.
June 6, 2025
3.5 to 4 stars. Ship wrecks, buried treasure, a sophisticated crime ring of burglaries, explosions, kidnappings, delicious Mexican food…. This book has it all.
October 2, 2015
I'm just so pleased that I found this at my local library's book shop!! Such a nostalgic piece of my reading history that I couldn't help myself. The super mysteries were always my favorites :) As far as the book goes, it was a pretty typical mystery but I loved the Ned/Nancy/Frank drama!
May 17, 2008
These books are the best! I always wanted Nancy to get together with the oldest Hardy boy...but it never happened. ;-(
January 25, 2010
Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew
February 7, 2014
it is an awesome book
December 31, 2015
Too much Ned, too many other characters, and Frank flirted with another girl. Not my favorite.
January 18, 2016
A Quickie Review
A good mystery, but not up to the standard set by either of the original series that inspired it. Mystery fans may enjoy it, but only somewhat.
Score: 3/5
A good mystery, but not up to the standard set by either of the original series that inspired it. Mystery fans may enjoy it, but only somewhat.
Score: 3/5
November 30, 2021
So glad Ned survived. Honestly, hardest part of reading this series is knowing that Nancy still won't end up with Frank...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews