About this book

Gabby Woods loves a mystery, but is breaking into an abandoned lake house going too far to uncover the truth?

Gabby Woods is looking forward to another summer vacation at her family's lake house, even though she would rather bury herself in a mystery novel than make new friends. But soon Gabby meets Paige, a snarky kid from Chicago, and they get caught up in a local mystery: the sudden disappearance of a glamorous couple and the extravagant lake house they left behind. To gather clues about the missing couple, Paige coaxes Gabby into trespassing. Though Gabby knows it's wrong, each sneaky visit to the abandoned lake house uncovers new mysteries. With suspicions mounting about foul play, Gabby must decide what she's willing to risk to uncover the truth, or if solving this mystery — and keeping her friendship with Paige — are more trouble than they're worth.

Reviews

"Cleanly styled, full-color illustrations bring her character-driven tale to life; expect instant comparisons to fan-favorites Raina Telgemeier and Jennifer L. and Matthew Holm... A comfort read, just right for a warm summer day." -- Kirkus Reviews

"Bard's llustrations are bright and cheerful, reminiscent of Raina Telgemeier's, and will leave readers feeling as if they are exploring the lake house's environs alongside the characters. A solid mystery for middle-grade comics collections." -- Booklist

"With its bright summer-in-the-woods palette, this graphic novel offers a lively story of mischief gone awry... Adventure seekers will enjoy the outdoorsy antics, while genre lovers will appreciate the mystery within a mystery plotline." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"Bard, making her solo debut, matches her story with friendly art that feels consistent with its lake house setting; the distinctively drawn cabins evoke a specific place and seasonal moment, lending themselves to sunny days and spooky elements... the resolution of the mystery... lands on refreshingly realistic simplicity. A cozy tale of mystery and friendship that will appeal to readers looking for a summer read." -- Publishers Weekly

"The natural dialogue and sharp characterization carry this book; Bard’s artwork uses a minimalistic style reminiscent of Raina Telgemeier’s work…A solid recommendation for libraries where middle grade graphic novels are popular." -- School Library Journal

"Intriguing and just suspenseful enough to keep readers turning the pages." -- ICv2