2024 MIDLAND AUTHORS AWARD FOR CHILDREN'S FICTION

Twelve-year-old Madeleine "Lainie" Stanton is about to make headlines. She was the first baby born at the new millennium, and a local TV station wants an interview. But when the reporter uncovers the dark history of Lainie's great-grandmother Maddie, who was executed for murder, the interview takes a dangerous turn.

Determined to clear her ancestor's name, Lainie and her two best friends embark on a thrilling race against time. Following clues left by Madeleine herself, they unravel a shocking mystery that has been buried for decades.

"A fine mystery with winsome characters and a complicated old house." —KIRKUS REVIEWS

"An irresistible narrative, rich with exciting clues." —EDITOR'S PICK, PUBLISHERS WEEKLY BOOKLIFE

"An exciting exploration of history, justice, and the long-lasting impact of the past." —READERS' FAVORITE

Read by Earphones and Audie Award-winning narrator Piper Goodeve.

A must-listen for fans of "The Parker Inheritance" and "The Dollhouse Murders."

A story with heart, humor, family, friends, and a twisty old mansion, from the award-winning author of "Eddie's War" and "The Bridge Dancers."

CAROL FISHER SALLER lives in Chicago. Honors for her children's books include Kirkus Best, Bank Street Best, Horn Book Recommended Verse, NCSS/CBC Notables, the Carl Sandburg Award for Children's Literature, the Midland Authors Award for Children's Fiction, and Chicago Public Library's Best Teen Fiction.