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Truly Devious summary
Brief summary
Truly Devious by Maureen Johnson is a captivating mystery novel set in an elite boarding school. When a student becomes embroiled in a decades-old cold case, she must use her wits to unravel the truth.
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Truly Devious
Summary of key ideas
Unraveling the Ellingham Mystery
In Truly Devious by Maureen Johnson, we are introduced to Stevie Bell, a true-crime enthusiast who is determined to solve the infamous Ellingham kidnapping case. The story begins with Stevie's acceptance into Ellingham Academy, a prestigious school for gifted students. The academy is located in the remote mountains of Vermont and is infamous for a century-old unsolved mystery involving the kidnapping of the founder's wife and daughter.
Stevie is thrilled to be at Ellingham, but her excitement is overshadowed by her obsession with the Ellingham case. She begins her investigation, poring over old case files and exploring the school's hidden passages and secret rooms. As she delves deeper into the mystery, she uncovers a series of cryptic riddles left by the elusive 'Truly Devious' – the person responsible for the original kidnapping.
Present-Day Threats
Simultaneously, a new mystery unfolds at Ellingham Academy. A student is found dead, and Stevie realizes that the present-day Ellingham is not as safe as it seems. She becomes embroiled in the investigation, using her keen observational skills and knowledge of true crime to help the authorities. As the tension mounts, Stevie finds herself in the middle of a dangerous game, unsure of who she can trust.
Amidst the chaos, Stevie forms close friendships with her quirky classmates, each with their own unique talents and secrets. She also develops a complicated relationship with David, a fellow student who is both a suspect and an ally in her investigations. As the story progresses, Stevie's determination to solve both mysteries intensifies, despite the growing danger.
Twists and Turns
In the latter part of Truly Devious, the narrative alternates between the past and present, providing us with glimpses of the original Ellingham kidnapping. We learn about the victims, the suspects, and the failed attempts to solve the case. The parallels between the past and present become increasingly apparent, blurring the lines between the two mysteries.
Just when Stevie believes she is close to uncovering the truth, a shocking turn of events throws her off course. The story ends with a cliffhanger, leaving us with more questions than answers. Despite the setbacks, Stevie remains resolute, determined to continue her pursuit of the elusive Truly Devious and the truth behind the Ellingham mysteries.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, Truly Devious is a gripping blend of historical and contemporary mystery, filled with complex characters and unexpected plot twists. Maureen Johnson masterfully weaves together two compelling storylines, keeping readers on the edge of their seats throughout. As the first installment in a trilogy, the novel sets the stage for an even more thrilling continuation, promising more revelations and heart-stopping moments in the subsequent books.
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What is Truly Devious about?
Truly Devious is a captivating mystery novel by Maureen Johnson. Set in an exclusive academy, it follows teenager Stevie Bell as she investigates a cold case involving the kidnapping and murder of students in the 1930s. With its clever plot twists and engaging characters, this book will keep you guessing until the very end.
Truly Devious Review
Truly Devious (2018) by Maureen Johnson is a thrilling mystery that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Here's why this book is definitely worth reading:
- The dual timeline narrative, alternating between the present and a historical crime, adds an extra layer of intrigue, keeping readers guessing until the very end.
- With its richly developed characters and complex relationships, the book delves into the psychological aspects of the mystery, making it both gripping and thought-provoking.
- The meticulously crafted clues and puzzle-solving elements throughout the story make it an interactive reading experience, engaging readers in the detective work alongside the protagonist.
Who should read Truly Devious?
- Readers who enjoy a mix of mystery and YA fiction
- People looking for a captivating and cleverly crafted storyline
- Those who appreciate well-developed characters and intricate plot twists
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Truly Devious FAQs
What is the main message of Truly Devious?
The main message of Truly Devious is that secrets and mysteries have a way of persisting until they are uncovered.
How long does it take to read Truly Devious?
The reading time for Truly Devious varies depending on the reader, but it typically takes several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Truly Devious a good book? Is it worth reading?
Truly Devious is a captivating read that keeps you guessing until the end. It's definitely worth checking out!
Who is the author of Truly Devious?
Maureen Johnson is the author of Truly Devious.
What to read after Truly Devious?
If you're wondering what to read next after Truly Devious, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
- Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
- Why We Get Fat by Gary Taubes
- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Savor by Thich Nhat Hanh and Lilian Cheung
- Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman
- Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price
- Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss
- Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink
- The Twenty-four Hour Mind by Rosalind D. Cartwright