THE GRIMLORE GAME

In this trilogy opener, an orphan competes in a game to inherit her grandfather’s fortune.

Every three years, on April 13, a Devlin dies. Both of 13-year-old Kit Devlin’s parents have been taken by the curse, and she’s been passed from relative to relative ever since. Now she’s left the U.S. to live in the U.K. with her English Aunt Sora. But when everyone gathers in Scotland for her grandfather’s funeral, his lawyer informs them that the entire estate will go to whoever can crack the various puzzles Grandpa Amos set up. Kit swiftly sets to work, trailed by her cousin Harlow, who’s afraid of everything but kind and helpful nonetheless. Each riddle she solves unlocks a vision of Grandpa Amos, in scenes that explain family history, how the curse began—and how she might break it (with help from Harlow and Carmine, “a persnickety curse creature” in cat form). Short excerpts from A Guide to Curses by Ambrose E. Devlin, Kit’s great-uncle, appear throughout. The stakes are high: Without the money, none of Kit’s greedy relatives will take her in, and she’s naturally desperate to break the curse. This fast-paced magical mystery, which centers on the importance of family, will entice fans of series like The Swifts and Mr. Lemoncello’s Library. Kit is cued white, and there’s diversity among the supporting cast. Khatkevich’s spot art adds to the gothic atmosphere.

An entertaining romp highlighting the wits of a clever young hero.