Drugs/Alcohol/Tobacco: Drug Use/Abuse,Drugs/Alcohol/Tobacco: Underage Use,Language: Strong Language,Sexual Content: Contact Between Adult and Minor,Sexual Content: Mild Sexual Content/Themes
A lavish Sweet Sixteen turns deadly in this twisty, pulse-pounding novel — serving a fresh take on a classic locked-room mystery for fans of The Guest List and First Lie Wins.
Today is Sophie Matthews’ sixteenth birthday party, an exclusive black-tie bash in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, where secrets are as deep-rooted as the sprawling live oaks. Sophie’s dad has spared no expense, and his renovated cliffside mansion — once thought haunted, and shuttered for years from outsiders — is now open. It’s the event of the season and the champagne is set to flow all day. Then, just before the candles on the three-tiered red velvet cake are blown out, a body falls from the balcony onto the starlit dance floor below.
But, who is the victim, and who is the killer?
There is Dani, the gorgeous new mother who’s been plagued by self-doubt ever since the birth of her baby girl.
Órlaith, the superstitious Irish nanny, who senses a looming danger in this cavernous house.
Mikayla, the birthday girl’s best friend, who is not nearly as meek as the popular kids assume.
And Kim, the cunning ex-wife, who has a grudge she can’t let go of…
Everyone is invited in. Not everyone will get out alive.
For Grades 11 & Up This collection features 14 adult fiction titles per year selected for strong appeal to older teens. Selections emphasize accessible storytelling and compelling narratives, centered on relatable characters facing challenges and themes that resonate with readers ready to move beyond traditional YA fiction. Some selections may explore identity, relationships, and real-world challenges, including LGBTQIA+ themes, strong language, social issues, and sensitive topics such as sexual abuse and suicide.
Discrimination: Racial Insensitivity/Racism,Language: Mild Language,Sexual Content: Mild Sexual Content/Themes,Social Issue: Slavery in Historical Context,Violence: General