In the Study with the Wrench works because it transforms a familiar board game into a high stakes mystery set within a secretive boarding school. The story relies on clever puzzles, hidden conspiracies, and a cast of suspects who must collaborate despite their mutual distrust. Books in this family share sophisticated logic puzzles, elite academic settings, and characters with dark motives.
A parent might reach for this book when their teen is craving a smart, intricate mystery that will challenge them without being overly graphic or disturbing. It's perfect for a reader who loves escape rooms, puzzles, and classic whodunits. The story follows Orchid McKee, a new scholarship student at an elite boarding school, who finds herself and her five housemates as the primary suspects when their headmaster is murdered. They must band together, using their unique talents to solve the crime. The book explores themes of teamwork, friendship, and justice, all wrapped in a clever, high-stakes mystery. It's an excellent choice for teens looking for a suspenseful but not scary read that values intelligence and collaboration.
