Truly Devious by Maureen Johnson is lauded for its engrossing mystery, compelling dual timelines, and complex protagonist. Critics praise the atmospheric setting and intricate plot. However, some find the pacing slow and the ending abrupt, potentially frustrating readers expecting resolution. Overall, it's well-regarded for its creativity and engaging narrative.

Readers who enjoy Truly Devious by Maureen Johnson likely appreciate intricate mysteries, boarding school settings, and witty, determined protagonists. Fans of John Green's Looking for Alaska and E. Lockhart's We Were Liars will find similar themes of teen sleuths uncovering dark secrets. The novel blends suspense with sharp dialogue and complex characters.

Truly Devious by Maureen Johnson follows Stevie Bell, a true crime enthusiast, who enrolls in Ellingham Academy hoping to solve a 1936 cold case involving the kidnapping and murder of the founder's wife and daughter. As Stevie acclimates to her new school, she befriends fellow students and investigates another modern-day crime, intertwining past and present mysteries. The book addresses themes of anxiety and mental health challenges and contains references to murder and kidnapping.

Mysterious / Suspenseful / Challenging / Adventurous / Dark

- Truly Devious is written by New York Times bestselling author Maureen Johnson, who has received several accolades for her works, including an Edgar Award nomination for this series.
- Ellingham Academy, the fictional setting in the book, was inspired by Johnson's love for the northeastern United States, particularly rural Vermont's unique natural beauty and seclusion.
- Maureen Johnson has a keen interest in true crime and mystery, which significantly influenced the plot and thematic elements of Truly Devious.

**Stephanie “Stevie” Bell**  
A 16-year-old first-year student at Ellingham Academy with a passion for crime and mystery, who is determined to solve the Ellingham murders and a new mystery involving a fellow student.

**Albert Ellingham**  
The founder of Ellingham Academy, a wealthy industrialist known for his love of games and learning, whose family's tragic past casts a shadow over the school.

**David Eastman**  
A second-year student at Ellingham who becomes Stevie's love interest, known for his mysterious background and connections to political power.

**Hayes Major**  
A second-year student at Ellingham and a YouTube star, whose showbiz aspirations and manipulative tendencies complicate his relationships with his peers.

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Overview

Truly Devious explores Stevie’s quest to solve a famous kidnapping, where past and present mysteries intertwine at a prestigious academy. Full summary here.

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Prologue-Chapter 5

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Chapters 6-10

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Chapters 11-15

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Chapters 16-20

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Chapters 21-25

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Chapters 26-30

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