Special Topics in Calamity Physics (Staff Pick)

Because you loved The Secret History by Donna Tartt.
- Wendy
Because you loved The Secret History by Donna Tartt.
- Wendy
This magical mystery is the mashup of Harry Potter and Nancy Drew that we all have been waiting for. Filled with friendship and romance, this book had my heart and my attention from the very first page.
- Emma
A manga classic! Watch as bored college student Light Yagami gains the the power of light and death, crosses the line from vigilante justice to a reign of fear, and starts a cat and mouse game with the world's best detective!
An adventure, a mystery, and a series of puzzles all rolled into one story! If you enjoyed The Mysterious Benedict Society, Greenglass House, or Ravenfall, you'll love Winterhouse. Join Elizabeth Somers as she is mysteriously sent away to a majestic hotel full of interesting people. When she comes across a book of puzzles in the hotel library, she makes it her mission to solve the problems within it so that she can figure out what exactly is going on in Winterhouse. Because things there are definitely...not normal.
Trans lawyer Erin McCabe fights the legal system and corrupt New Jersey politics in a book that's set in the early 2000s but feels ripped from today's headlines.
- Sarah
A fresh, heartwarming addition to the cozy mystery genre. The multiple POV format worked well for me; I was interested in the development of the investigation as well as the personal development of each character at an even pace. And when the truth was revealed, I truly didn’t expect it! Definitely a favorite of the year.
- Manasa
There's simply no better way to start the year than alongside this snappy, prickly, hilarious cast with the mystery of a lifetime to uncover. So deliciously, mouth-wateringly good.
Cindy
This is the perfect present for budding sleuths and mystery enthusiasts, young children who've never heard of this timeless classic and anyone who remembers the Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys books like they were some kind of weird fever dream. A bonus present for the resident Nosy Person in your life (I am one and I am not ashamed) that our bookstore sadly cannot provide: any of the Nancy Drew games from Her Interactive!! A few of my favorites are The Silent Spy, Labyrinth of Lies, and Warnings at Waverly Academy.
Engel
With a main character reminiscent of Wednesday Addams and Eloise, this charming murder mystery is part humor, part chills, all heart. Flavia will win your favor and save the day.
Lisa Gardner writes fantastic Boston-based mysteries. Her latest series features Frankie Elkins, a recovering alcoholic with a talent for finding missing people, who takes on cases whether the police want her help or not.
Sarah