Truly Devious summary

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.