House of Hearts

Gr 9 Up–After her best friend’s death is dismissed as a freak accident, Violet Harper is certain foul play is involved. Convinced her friend was trying to warn her about something, Violet transfers to the elite boarding school her friend attended, determined to uncover the truth. There, Violet meets Calvin, her handsome classmate who is not only burdened by a dangerous curse but is also the brother of her prime suspect. This dark academia novel adeptly blends atmospheric horror with romantic tension. It manages to be both vivid and unsettling, while simmering with chemistry and angst. Young adults will enjoy reading about the tough, murder-solving heroine and fall in love with the brooding Calvin. Although the pacing is quick and packed with twists, the character development and worldbuilding are underdeveloped.