Books matching: boarding school mysteries
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- #1
Save:A brilliantly plotted, darkly humorous academic thriller with a killer twist. Perfect for fans of smart mysteries and school-based intrigue.
Gentlemen and Players by Joanne M. Harris is a dark and sinister thriller set in a prestigious all boys boarding school, St. Oswald's. The story revolves around a clever psychopath seeking revenge on the school, creating a complex psychological mystery that keeps the reader hooked until the unpredictable ending. The narrative is told from multiple perspectives, including that of Roy Straitley, an elderly Classics master, and the mysterious assailant, adding depth to the plot and character development.
The book delves into themes of revenge, deception, loyalty, and identity within the backdrop of a British public school. With a well-crafted plot, unexpected twists, and engaging character interactions, Gentlemen and Players offers a gripping and suspenseful read that keeps readers guessing until the very end.
If there's one thing I've learned in the past fifteen years, it's this: that murder is really no big deal. It's just a boundary, meaningless and arbitrary as all others - a line drawn in the dirt. Lik...2005•502 pages - #2
Save:A moody, haunting mystery with intertwined timelines, boarding school secrets, and a ghostly chill - highly recommended for fans of gothic suspense and atmospheric thrillers!
'The Broken Girls' by Simone St. James is a chilling and suspenseful novel that intertwines two timelines, one set in the post-WWII era at a boarding school for troubled girls called Idlewild Hall, and the other set in present-day Vermont. The story follows Fiona Sheridan, a journalist haunted by her sister's murder on the school grounds, as she delves into the dark history of the school and the mysteries surrounding the girls who once resided there. The novel expertly weaves together elements of murder, ghost stories, urban legends, and conspiracy, creating a captivating murder mystery with a supernatural twist.
The phone rang again. She swiped quickly at her eyes and glanced at it, sitting on the passenger seat where she’d tossed it. The display glowed in the darkness. Jamie’s name, and the time: three o’clo...March 2018•344 pages - #3
Save:A witty and addictive YA mystery that will keep you guessing – but make sure you have the sequel on hand, because this cliffhanger won’t let you go!
In 'Truly Devious' by Maureen Johnson, the story follows Stevie Bell, a true crime enthusiast who gets accepted into the prestigious Ellingham Academy to pursue her dream of solving the decades-old murder and kidnapping that occurred at the school in 1936. The book alternates between the past events of 1936 and Stevie's present-day investigations, creating a compelling narrative full of mysteries and intriguing characters. However, the book ends on a major cliffhanger, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next installment to unravel the unresolved plot threads.
Stevie finds herself caught up in a web of mysteries as she delves into the historical murder disappearance at Ellingham Academy while navigating her own challenges in the present day. With engaging storytelling that intertwines past and present events, Johnson crafts a YA murder mystery that keeps readers hooked with its blend of riddles, puzzles, and questions. Despite some readers finding the ending unsatisfying due to the abrupt cliffhanger, the book's ability to keep readers on edge and craving more sets the stage for a promising series that blends elements of historical crime with modern-day investigations.
This resulted in a long pause. Stevie and her parents had had many conversations about the nature of truth and fact, and this might, on another day, have erupted into an argument. Not today. They seem...January 2018•453 pages - #4
Save:Moody, twisty, and superbly written - a must for fans of smart mysteries and coming-of-age tales, but may drag for those less interested in teen drama or who prefer their crime fiction snappier.
'The Secret Place' by Tana French revolves around a cold murder case at a private girl's school, St. Kilda's. Detective Stephen Moran gets a chance to join Dublin's Murder Squad when Holly Mackey provides a clue related to the case. The story unfolds as Moran teams up with Detective Antoinette Conway to investigate the tangled relationships and secrets among the schoolgirls, all set against the backdrop of a mysterious 'secret place' at the school. The narrative alternates between the present investigation and the past events at the school, showcasing French's skill in character development and atmospheric storytelling.
She came looking for me. Most people stay arm’s length away. A patchy murmur on the tip line, Back in ’95 I saw, no name, click if you ask. A letter printed out and posted from the wrong town, paper a...September 2014•482 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Dublin Murder Squad ) - #5
Save:Spooky, unsettling, and beautifully written, "A Lesson in Vengeance" is a must for fans of sapphic dark academia and unreliable narrators - just don’t expect all the answers by the final page!
A Lesson in Vengeance by Victoria Lee follows the story of 17-year-old Felicity Morrow, who returns to her elite boarding school after taking a year off for her mental health. Haunted by the death of her best friend Alex, Felicity is drawn into a plot with mysterious teen writer Ellis Haley to investigate the deaths of the infamous Dalloway Five. As Felicity delves deeper into the past, she must confront her own guilt and unravel the truth behind the tragedies that occurred at the school. The book is a beautifully written dark academia novel filled with suspense, vivid descriptions, and intricate character relationships that keep the reader hooked until the very end.
Dalloway School rises from the Catskill foothills like a crown upon an auburn head. Accessible only by gravel road and flanked by a mirror-glass lake to the east, its brick-faced buildings stand with...August 2021•383 pages - #6
Save:A moody, dark debut that doesn’t always stick the landing - but delivers a compelling, emotional page-turner for those who like their mysteries with a side of family drama.
Dark Rooms by Lili Anolik is a mystery novel following Grace Baker's quest to solve her sister Nica's murder. The story is filled with twists and unexpected turns, keeping readers engaged until the end. Grace's investigation leads her to dark places within her family and community, ultimately forcing her to confront unsettling truths about herself. The writing style of the book is described as intense, emotional, and exploring deep human emotions through the eyes of the protagonist.
The last time I saw Nica before she died was on the way back from the tennis courts of Chandler Academy, the private boarding and day school in Hartford, Connecticut, where we were both students and o...March 2015•373 pages - #7
Save:A big-hearted, funny, and poignant look at teenage life and loss - ambitious and messy, but unforgettable. Give it a go if you love character-rich storytelling and don’t mind some bittersweet darkness along the way.
'Skippy Dies' by Paul Murray is a novel that revolves around the life and death of a 14-year-old boy named Skippy who attends a prestigious Irish boarding school. The book is divided into three parts and delves into the trials and tribulations faced by Skippy and his friends, as well as the aftermath of his death. The narrative captures the complexities of adolescence, exploring themes of love, loss, peer pressure, and the challenges of growing up in a modern world. The writing style combines humor, satire, and poignant moments, offering a deep and insightful look into the lives of the characters.
The book skillfully portrays a variety of characters, each with their own unique traits and struggles, set against the backdrop of Dublin's Seabrook College. Through a mix of humor, tragedy, and astute observations, the author weaves a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The story unfolds with a blend of dark humor and emotional depth, drawing readers into a world where teenage angst and adult complexities intersect, ultimately exploring the nuances of human relationships and the challenges of navigating life's uncertainties.
In winter months, from his seat in the middle desk of the middle row, Howard used to look out the window of the History Room and watch the whole school go up in flames. The rugby pitches, the basketba...August 2010•687 pages - #8
Save:A twisty, secretive, and fun YA thriller that’s perfect for fans of dark academia and school mysteries - just be ready for a slow start as you dive into November’s shadowy world.
"Killing November" by Adriana Mather follows the story of November Nova Alden, a teenage girl who finds herself enrolled in a secret spy assassin school where trust is a rare commodity. As she navigates through the mysteries and dangers of the academy, November must uncover hidden agendas, build alliances, and solve murder mysteries while questioning her own identity and place in this world of deception and manipulation. The plot unfolds with unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as November unravels the conspiracy that threatens the foundation of the school and her own family.
The writing style in "Killing November" is engaging and immersive, with readers expressing how they were hooked from the beginning and found it hard to put the book down. The author, Adriana Mather, focuses on character development, particularly November's journey of self-discovery and growth, making her relatable and compelling to readers. The story combines elements of mystery, suspense, action, and coming-of-age themes, creating a thrilling and captivating narrative that appeals to a wide audience.
MY NAME IS November Adley and I was born in August. The way my dad tells it, the Connecticut nights were unusually cool that summer, and the day I arrived our maple burst with color reminiscent of lat...March 2019•419 pages - #9
Save:'Wilberforce' by H.S. Cross is a novel set in a boys' boarding school in the early 1920s, following the protagonist, Morgan Wilberforce, through his struggles, relationships with friends and teachers, and existential crises. The book delves into the complexities of Morgan's character, his family history, and his journey towards adulthood. The writing style includes vivid descriptions of school life, amorous adventures, and various well-drawn characters that add depth to the narrative.
A wave of remembrance: the rugby pitch; Burton-Lee’s fullback, a powerful boy in the Sixth called Spaulding; the sluggish, timid performance from his own side; Morgan’s try blocked by Spaulding; then...September 2015•464 pages - #10
Save:Fielding Gray by Simon Raven is a novel set in an unnamed English boys' public school in the months following Germany's surrender in May 1945. The story revolves around the protagonist, Fielding Gray, a 17-year-old schoolboy who develops lustful and romantic feelings for his peer, Christopher Roland. The book explores themes of corruption, betrayal, and schoolboy passions during a time of societal change. Raven's writing style is described as witty and observant, offering a glimpse into human frailty and complex relationships.
Donald Salinger, a businessman. Jude Holbrook, his friend and partner. Miss Beatty, a secretary in the firm of Salinger & Holbrook. Mrs. Beatty, her mother. Ashley Dexterside, friend and employee of D...1967•211 pages
