Truly Devious

Stevie Bell has always been obsessed with true crime, particularly the infamous unsolved Ellingham case from 1936. When a kidnapping and double murder rocked the mountain-top Ellingham Academy—a progressive Vermont boarding school—the culprit left behind only a mocking riddle signed "Truly Devious." Now Stevie has been accepted to Ellingham as a student, giving her the chance to finally investigate the cold case that has captivated her for years. But shortly after she arrives, the past and present collide when a student dies under mysterious circumstances. What makes this novel so appealing is its clever dual timeline structure, weaving together the historical mystery of the 1930s with a contemporary puzzle that mirrors it in chilling ways. Maureen Johnson creates an atmospheric setting in the isolated academy, filled with eccentric students, hidden passages, and decades of secrets. Stevie is a compelling protagonist—whip-smart and anxious, driven by her love of logic and detective work, yet struggling with her own doubts and social anxieties. The book balances genuine suspense with sharp humor and authentic teenage voices, making it engaging for both mystery lovers and readers who enjoy character-driven stories. As the first book in a series, it sets up an intricate puzzle that will keep readers guessing while delivering enough answers to be satisfying on its own.