The Steps

Following a car accident that killed their mothers, cousins Ruby and Sterling Vossen haven’t spoken for almost a year, forbidden by their hotheaded fathers from contacting each other. Feuds are a way of life in the wealthy Vossen family, led by imperious matriarch Oma, who finds fault with nearly everyone and punishes them with alienation and harsh words. But when Oma’s prized diamond ring is stolen, Ruby jumps at the chance to reconnect with Sterling while investigating the theft. After overhearing an ominous conversation involving Ruby’s cold stepmother, the 14-year-old suspects that her gold-digging new family members—nicknamed the Steps—are behind the crime. As Ruby follows leads and uncovers familial secrets, sinister things start happening on the Vossen estate. Convinced that her life may be in danger, Ruby enlists the help of her adorkable chess club pals. Though Ruby’s first-person voice at times reads too young, Van Draanen (Mr. Whiskers and the Shenanigan Sisters) skillfully employs chess metaphors while piling on the twists in this campy caper. The cousins’ friendship—both with each other and the connections they make throughout their investigation—is a heartfelt counter-point to the Vossens’ despicable familial relationships and tumultuous history. Characters read as white. Ages 12–up. Agent: Ginger Knowlton, Curtis Brown. (Sept.)