Fan-favorite detective Drew Leclair returns to crack the case of a sneaky locker thief in this heartfelt sequel to the critically acclaimed middle grade mystery series that’s been called “the perfect story for readers ready to progress from Nancy Drew.” (SLJ, starred review).
After breaking school rules the last time she solved a mystery, Drew Leclair has a new mission: get good grades, stay under the radar, and do not get suspended.
But when Drew finds out that there’s a thief breaking into the P.E. lockers and leaving behind cryptic ransom notes, it’s hard to resist cracking a new case. Especially when one of the victims is her best friend Shrey’s crush, and he’s practically begging her to get involved.
Can Drew catch the thief red-handed while staying out of trouble? And what does it mean when everyone around Drew is obsessing over crushes and the upcoming Wonderland dance, and Drew would rather work on her latest crime board?
- A Middle School Whodunit: A locker thief is leaving cryptic ransom notes, but Drew Leclair is supposed to be staying out of trouble, not building another crime board.
- Reluctant Detective: Drew promised herself no more snooping, but when her best friend Shrey begs for her help to solve the case, she can’t resist the pull of a new mystery.
- Friendship and First Crushes: While everyone else is focused on the upcoming Wonderland dance, Drew is more interested in motives and alibis—even if cracking the case means helping her friend get the girl.
- True Crime for Kids: Perfect for young readers who love puzzles, clues, and a smart female protagonist who thinks like a real criminal profiler.
