A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson

Who killed Andie Bell five years ago? Most people in town think it was her boyfriend, Sal Singh. But there was no arrest or trial because Sal was found dead a few days later - ruled a suicide. Or was it? Pippa decides to solve the murder and clear Sal's name as part of her senior project (not telling her teacher her true goal). She knew Sal when he was younger, and believes he was not a murderer. 

The problem is not everyone likes Pippa asking questions and snooping around. The people involved are not saints - some sell drugs and have assaulted people. One may even have had a relationship with teenager. The closer Pippa gets to the truth and the more she pushes people, the more danger she risks for herself and family. 

Pippa shares her findings (most of them, anyway) on a podcast which grows in popularity. The podcast adds to the tension as everyone knows who possible suspects are and learn of their questionable actions.  

I have read several teen suspense books recently - this is the best one so far. Pippa is a driven young woman who hesitates but never turns away from finding the truth. Her drive moves the story forward at a quick pace. Danger lurks in so many places with the reader never really knowing what the consequences will be. This is edge of your seat stuff. 

For more info, check out the Indianapolis Public Library catalog.

The Mary Shelley Club by Goldy Moldavsky

Rachel has a secret, and she wants to keep it that way. She is starting over at a ritzy private school in New York. She is not wealthy like most of the other students which sets her apart. Wanting to belong, she becomes intrigued by the rumors of an unknown prankster who takes revenge on people who deserve it. 

It doesn't take Rachel long to figure out that there is a group who pull the pranks. It turns out they like horror movies which Rachel also loves. She became fascinated with such movies after the thing happened...you know, the secret that caused Rachel and her mom to move. 

Not everyone wants her in the group. They are a mix of people you never see together at school, and they feel very exclusive. The guy who fights for her inclusion is interesting to her. He is not rich either and a kind of cute. 

The club is all about a competition to pull off the best fear test on someone outside the group; find their biggest fear and create a situation that will get them to scream. It's a scary, dangerous game for all concerned. Even though Rachel was hoping the group could help her deal with her past, it may be the worst thing for her. 

For more info, check out the Indianapolis Public Library catalog and the author's site.