One-line Summary:
Truly, Devious is a thrilling mystery novel that follows Stevie Bell as she investigates a cold case at Ellingham Academy, a prestigious school for gifted students, while dealing with her own secrets and the present-day murders happening on campus.
The Mysterious Ellingham Academy
Truly, Devious takes place at Ellingham Academy, a unique and prestigious school located in the mountains of Vermont. Founded by the enigmatic Albert Ellingham in the 1930s, the academy is known for its unconventional teaching methods and its focus on nurturing the talents of gifted students. The school attracts a diverse group of individuals, each with their own secrets and motivations.
A Cold Case Resurfaces
Stevie Bell, a true crime aficionado, is determined to solve the infamous Ellingham kidnapping that occurred in 1936. Albert Ellingham’s wife and daughter were abducted, and while his wife’s body was found, his daughter, Alice, was never recovered. Stevie is accepted into Ellingham Academy and sees it as an opportunity to delve into the cold case and uncover the truth.
As Stevie settles into her new life at Ellingham, she befriends a group of fellow students who share her passion for solving mysteries. Together, they form the “Society of Curious Minds” and begin investigating the Ellingham kidnapping. Stevie’s obsession with the case intensifies as she uncovers hidden clues and follows leads, determined to bring justice to the long-forgotten crime.
A Present-Day Mystery Unfolds
While Stevie is engrossed in her investigation, a series of present-day murders occur at Ellingham Academy, leaving the students and staff in a state of fear and confusion. The murders seem to be connected to the original Ellingham kidnapping, and Stevie finds herself caught up in a dangerous game of cat and mouse with the killer.
As Stevie delves deeper into the present-day murders, she uncovers a web of secrets and lies that intertwine with the past. The line between reality and fiction becomes blurred as she struggles to identify the killer and protect herself and her friends.
Key Takeaways:
- Truly, Devious is a captivating mystery novel that combines a cold case from the past with present-day murders, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
- The story explores themes of obsession, the pursuit of truth, and the consequences of secrets.
- The characters are well-developed and relatable, with Stevie Bell being a determined and complex protagonist.
- The book masterfully weaves together multiple timelines and storylines, creating an intricate and suspenseful narrative.
- Truly, Devious is the first installment in a trilogy, leaving readers eager to continue the thrilling journey in subsequent books.
“The past has crawled out of its grave. Someone has gotten away with murder.” – Maureen Johnson
In conclusion, Truly, Devious is a gripping mystery novel that seamlessly blends past and present, keeping readers guessing until the very end. With its well-crafted characters, intricate plot, and themes of obsession and truth, the book is a must-read for fans of the genre. Maureen Johnson’s writing style and ability to create suspense make Truly, Devious a thrilling start to an exciting trilogy.
