Happy Halloween SHC! In keeping with October’s spooky spirit, this month’s genre is mystery! Mystery novels can range from cracking crimes and deciphering puzzles to solving supernatural enigmas. By looking for clues, decoding messages, and making critical literary connections, mystery-loving readers are sure to be on the edge of their seats with every word. Although I am a rookie in the mystery world, this month’s books pleasantly surprised me and reminded me how much I love a good “whodunit” novel. Are you in the mood for something paranormal and riveting? Give these mysteries a try.
Book Recommendations by Simone Cohen:
Missing by Kelley Armstrong: Missing is an unparalleled adaptation of the stereotypical murder mystery, defying readers’ expectations by painting an ever-evolving account of a small town’s dark and peculiar history. By focusing on the story of a young girl, Winter, and a boy she mysteriously stumbles upon in the woods, Kelly Armstrong finds a way to create an alternate universe of chaos, confusion, death, and fear. When Winter begins to notice the unusual number of disappearances within her seemingly forgotten home, the threads of lies and deceit begin to unravel almost faster than she can keep up with. Winter’s journey throughout these pages leaves readers feeling equal measures of frustration and infatuation. For anyone wanting an all-consuming, astonishing work of fiction, this mystery is ready for you!
A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson: A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder is one of the most beloved thriller series by mystery junkies and was recently adapted into a short series on Netflix. Holly Jackson does a wonderful job of pulling readers into her world: a British small town plagued by the disappearance of one of its most popular residents, Andie Bell. Fed up with her confusion and guilt, a young girl named Pip attempts to close this case once and for all under the guise of a school project. After many late nights, dangerous missions, and close encounters with presumed killers, Pip finds out the truth. Her friendships, family, and love life are all put to the test while she tries to crack this case. One of our own students, Anna Lloyd ‘26, explained that the “plot of the whole series is very in-depth, and [I] loved solving the mystery as the characters do.” This hooking mystery is perfect for anyone wanting a relaxing and fun read, while also experiencing the timeless adrenaline rush of finally solving your case.
Simone’s Standout Read:
We Were Liars by E. Lockhart: We Were Liars is one of the best psychological thrillers and suspense novels I have read. Having many accolades, including the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Young Adult Fiction, and being a finalist for the National Book Award. Upon first glance, the book may seem slow and boring; however, it is much more enthralling than meets the eye. The book’s main protagonist, Cadence, undergoes a mysterious accident that wipes her memory of the summer days she spent with her cousins and first love on her family’s private island. While under the influence of prescribed opioids in response to her traumatic brain injury, Cadence finds herself isolated, confused, and lacking the companionship of her three closest friends: her cousins. E. Lockhart manipulates the gaps in Cadence’s recollection to delve deeper and deeper into the true implications that a lie can have on someone’s life. This story weaves romance, social injustices, racism, and ignorance into one sleek suspense novel that will leave you reeling. Pick up We Were Liars in the library to find out the horrifying truth behind one fateful summer’s night.
Student Recommendations by Simone Cohen:
The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes – I personally loved reading The Inheritance Games because of its divergent plot, enchanting characters, and eloquent writing. For a girl struggling to pay her bills like Avery, the main character, the very prospect of wealth is inconceivable. However, her view changes when she discovers she inherited 46.2 billion dollars from a man she has never met. In order to secure her inheritance, Avery has to battle meddling family members, solve riddles, and decode the hidden secrets of the Hawthorne family. Barnes’ high level of suspense and “touch of romance” (Molly Cannon ‘27) create an impossibly enthralling storyline that anyone would easily adore.
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides- Michaelides creates a dark, terrifying, and disturbing tale that follows a woman named Alicia Brennan and the murder of her husband. Its captivating plot and unique storyline are enough to draw in anyone. SHC’s student Gianna Bankovitch ‘27 thought that the “book was an immediate 10/10. […] The writing was so suspenseful, and creative, and had me hooked the entire time and there is a mind-blowing plot twist.”
Math Department Book Recommendations by Lily Cardenas:
(Lily Cardenas ‘27)
The Monster of Templeton by Lauran Groff – Recommended by Ms. Jones, this novel is a compelling contemporary mystery that peels back the history of a family and a town. Willie, the main character, returns to her hometown after college with a question: Who is her father? She has always assumed her mother doesn’t know, but what if she does? She dives into her family’s history to find the answer. Readers follow Willie along this journey through her lineage, slowly peeling back the layers of secrets that can envelop a family. This book brings a “serenity, [because] every sentence is so beautiful,” bringing to you the joy “of discovering your past and how that shapes you, [but] not defin[e] you.” This is a perfect read for anyone who loves a good storyteller.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon- The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, recommended by Mr. Gresh, is a touching story about a young autistic boy, Christopher, who struggles to understand people. He lives in his own world until his neighbor’s dog dies under mysterious circumstances. Readers follow Christopher on his path of self-discovery as he investigates this death and how he “uncovers the truth about his mother and father.” This book brings you on an adventure of introspection with Christopher, and you see his “investigational pursuits provide the growth in his confidence to pursue his desire for truth, self-worth, and higher education.” This story “provides a window into our society and how we must remember that all people deserve to be recognized with the dignity of human kindness and self-worth.” This is a fantastic read for anyone willing to examine how today’s society shapes who we become.
We hope you find time this season to curl up with a book and decide to check out one of our recommended mysteries. We leave you with a quote from one of my personal favorite authors:
“I declare after all there is no enjoyment like reading! How much sooner one tires of anything than of a book! — When I have a house of my own, I shall be miserable if I have not an excellent library.” – Jane Austen
