Families who loved A Beautiful and Terrible Murder by Claire M. Andrews often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your teenager is grappling with questions of identity, the pressure to conform, or the desire to break through glass ceilings in competitive environments. It is an ideal choice for the student who feels like they have to mask their true self to succeed or for the mystery lover who enjoys unraveling complex social hierarchies. The story follows Irene Adler as she disguises herself as a male student to attend an elite Oxford preparatory class, only to find herself investigating a string of murders alongside a young Sherlock Holmes. While the plot is a fast-paced historical thriller, the emotional core focuses on the courage required to navigate a world that wasn't built for you. It explores themes of justice, gender performance, and the moral ambiguity of power. Parents should note that the 'terrible murder' in the title refers to dark, gothic-inspired violence appropriate for the 14-plus age group. It is a sophisticated read that encourages teens to look beneath the surface of prestigious institutions and question who truly belongs in the room.
