ELLEN POE

A rumored descendant of Edgar Allan Poe helps his ghost unravel hidden codes from the author’s lost writings.

Ever since moving to Aunt Marie’s carefully curated Edgar Allan Poe–themed bed-and-breakfast, 16-year-old Ellen Reynolds has suffered recurring nightmares about the dead. One morning, she’s bewildered by the appearance of Eddy, the ghost of Edgar Allan Poe, and the discovery of an old leather journal bearing the initials “E.A.P.” In her English class at Evergreen Prep, Ellen is shocked to meet new student Gus Davenport, one of the dead people from her nightmares. She exclaims, “You’re dead!”, leaving Gus convinced she’s psychic because he’d had a near-death experience. Eddy asks for Ellen’s help cracking the ciphers in his journal, leaving her occasionally exasperated by his cryptic communication style: “When the proper time arrives, all that the gentleman intended, and all that he did not intend, will be brought to light.” With Gus’ help, Ellen works to resolve both the nightmares and Eddy’s request so she can sell his journal, help the struggling B&B, and save for college. Poe fans will rejoice at the amusing, endearing characterization of the poet, while those unfamiliar with his work will develop a well-earned appreciation for him. Peterfreund’s latest is an intriguing ghostly mystery that skillfully highlights the wealth of Poe’s artistry without overloading the story with infodumps or detracting from the strong pace. Central characters are cued white.

A winning combination of mystery and (tell-tale) heart.