Secrets of the Broken House

Three youths become embroiled in a murder investigation in this affectionate whodunit by Souders (The Mystery of the Radcliffe Riddle). Thirteen-year-old Tucker loves summertime in small-town Everson, Ga., because that’s when his best friend Clemmie returns to spend the season with her grandmother—and Tucker. He’s especially looking forward to Clemmie’s visit this year, as a falling-out with his other bestie, Aiden, has left Tucker feeling lonely despite his having found a new confidante in classmate Sadie. When Clemmie arrives, the trio team up to clean antiques for grumpy elderly Miss Geraldine; in return, she’ll give them her old rowboat, which they need to fulfill Tucker’s desire to go fishing. The day they’re meant to receive their reward, however, they discover Miss Geraldine dead at the bottom of her stairs. Tucker—whose sheriff father raised him to “be observant and draw logical conclusions”—suspects foul play, and when that fact is confirmed, the group sets out to investigate. Sensorial descriptions of the town make for a charming and cozy backdrop. Creating sympathetically flawed and idiosyncratic characters, the author centers relationship subplots to highlight the importance of forgiveness throughout this gratifying mystery. Clemmie cues as Black; other protagonists read as white. Ages 8–12. Agent: Sally Apokedak, Apokedak Literary. (Jan.)