G.Z. Schmidt delivers a delightfully fun whodunnit with “The Curious Vanishing of Beatrice Willoughby,” a mystery for all ages.
Thirteen years ago the young Beatrice Willoughby disappeared at the All Hollow’s Eve party at the Amadeus residence, located in the Inkwoods. When she is never found, Mort Amadeus is accused of the dastardly deed and sent to prison.
Now, several townspeople have been summoned to the Amadeus home for another party — and an attempt to solve who truly made Beatrice disappear and why. Accidental guest Dewey O’Connor, 11, finds himself at the party with his father Chaucer. Will Dewey be able to sort through the clues better than the adults present? Will he solve Beatrice’s disappearance?
Schmidt creates a quirky, fun Clue-like story with twists and turns, and intriguing characters with surprising pasts. “The Curious Vanishing of Beatrice Willoughby” reminds us to never give up; even if we are young, we can be skillful; “A good detective confirms everything firsthand”; and always follow the clues, no matter how small.
Fans of books like “Frances and the Monster” by Refe Tuma and the Sinister Summer series by Kiersten White will enjoy “The Curious Vanishing of Beatrice Willoughby,” which is due out Sept. 5.
Five stars out of five.
Holiday House provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.