Bad Things Happen Here

In this carefully plotted, character-driven mystery, 17-year-old, mixed-race Black Luca Laine Thomas believes that Parris—her affluent, majority-white, and outwardly idyllic island home—is cursed. Luca’s best friend Polly Stern drowned three years ago, and Luca is convinced that her death wasn’t accidental, especially given the island’s history of young women who die mysteriously. After meeting rich Asian newcomer Naomi Fontaine, 17, Luca’s older sister Whitney is found dead. When the Parris police force proves inefficient, Luca resolves to investigate Whitney’s death herself. Everyone is under suspicion, including Luca’s ex-friend, detective’s daughter Jada Charles; Whitney’s best friend; and a former drug dealer. But when a harrowing secret threatens to hinder the inquiry, the teens come together to upend Parris society’s pristine reputation. Luca’s investigative prowess makes her an impressive heroine, but it’s Naomi and Luca’s romance that keeps the narrative fresh. Through Luca—whose acute sense of identity as a queer fat girl is exemplified in her sardonic telling—Barrow (Interview with the Vixen) examines themes of mental illness and self-worth, forgiveness, and acceptance. A beginning note contextualizes instances of suicidal ideation, self-harm, and sexual violence. Ages 14–up. Agent: Suzie Townsend, New Leaf Literary and Media. (June)