Mystery at the Biltmore: The Vanderhoff Heist

Elodie LaRue has been left behind once again while her globe-trotting art crime investigator parents pursue another case. The 10-year-old resolves to start her own detective agency in the Biltmore, her historic Upper West Side apartment building, and is quickly hired by resident Mrs. Vanderhoff to find her missing earrings. With assistance from her West Highland terrier Carnegie and new friend Oscar Delgado, a parkour aficionado, Elodie methodically works through the inquiry by studying the scene of the crime, extrapolating the possible motivations for the theft, and scrutinizing the usual--and very unusual--suspects who populate her building. This engaging mystery, a series starter for early readers by Nelson (The Umbrella House), charms from page one. Elodie is a delightful lead character who demonstrates logic and compassion as she investigates, all the while fighting through doubts that she's too young to be a detective. Bright and whimsical full-color illustrations by Collins (The Only Lonely Fairy) set the tone, and an author's note provides context regarding various story elements. Elodie is "pale-skinned," and Oscar has olive skin. Ages 7-8. (Oct.)

Copyright 2024 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

Gr 3-5--There's a new young detective in New York City, and her name is Elodie LaRue. The only daughter of an art detective couple, Elodie lives on the Upper West Side with her live-in nanny, at an old, glamorous building called the Biltmore. In this series debut, Elodie's first case concerns jewels stolen from a neighbor. Alongside new friend Oscar, Elodie embarks on a clue-finding mission all over the property. Can Elodie and Oscar crack their first case together before the police arrive? This fast-paced short story includes illustrated vignettes by award-winning artist Collins. Though the resolution is sudden and not all that satisfactory, the build-up is properly paced. The main character and those around her have mannerisms and language that scream "old money." Elodie is certainly self-aware as she navigates the case and checks herself for making assumptions about the people she speaks with while solving the mystery of the missing jewels. Overall, this book can find an audience with readers who want to see an independent and assertive main character. VERDICT A safe purchase for elementary school libraries in need of compelling female characters and where mysteries circulate well.--Carol Youssif

Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

"Move over, Eloise at the Plaza: It’s Elodie at the Biltmore....Nelson draws out the mystery, planting clues and red herrings, explaining good reasoning, citing evidence, and providing a satisfying solution....An entertaining blend of quirky characters and locked-room puzzle."

Praise for Mystery at the Biltmore

The Children's Book Council "Hot Off the Press: October 2024" Feature

"Move over, Eloise at the Plaza: It's Elodie at the Biltmore....Nelson draws out the mystery, planting clues and red herrings, explaining good reasoning, citing evidence, and providing a satisfying solution....An entertaining blend of quirky characters and locked-room puzzle."—Kirkus Reviews

"This engaging mystery, a series starter for early readers...charms from page one. Elodie is a delightful lead character who demonstrates logic and compassion as she investigates, all the while fighting through doubts that she's too young to be a detective."—Publishers Weekly

"An engaging chapter-book mystery....Nelson's characters are funny and well-rounded, and she carefully drops clues throughout the story to help young readers solve the mystery on their own before reaching the end. Collins' full-color, cartoon illustrations capture each character's quirkiness and reflect the racial diversity of a New York City apartment complex."—Booklist

"There's a new young detective in New York City, and her name is Elodie LaRue....Overall, this book can find an audience with readers who want to see an independent and assertive main character. A safe purchase for elementary school libraries in need of compelling female characters and where mysteries circulate well."—School Library Journal

"Charming. The Biltmore, Elodie, and Oscar (and as always, a cute puppy) make this a total win."—Kevin Sylvester, award-winning author of Apartment 713