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Book Review of The Hand on the Wall (Truly Devious)

The Hand on the Wall (Truly Devious)
reviewed on + 1443 more book reviews


Iris and Albert Ellingham, one of the most wealthy couples in the country, announce the birth of a daughter, Alice. Flora Robinson and George Marsh had accompanied them to Switzerland where little Alice was born. For four years the couple enjoyed their little daughter. Then she disappeared. Iris and Alice were traveling when their car was stopped and the two were kidnapped. Iris is killed and Alice vanishes. For years, a heartbroken Albert spends vast sums searching for the little girl.

Stephanie (Stevie) Bell, a student at Ellingham Academy founded by George Ellingham, becomes fascinated by the kidnapping. After considerable research she believes that she had solved the case. Then students and a professor at the school die in what appears to be accidents or mischance. Stevie believes otherwise and begins to search for clues to prove it. When she does, the kidnapper and the murderer of the Ellingham people are different. This tale is about money and who can obtain the vast inheritance. Stevie is an unlikely detective but she proves her point.

For me, this was an okay read because I found Stevie's role in both cases a bit unbelievable. Young readers may not agree. The mysteries are so comples and fascinting that I suggest that interested readers check it out for themselves.