The Night Raven (The Moonwind Mysteries #1)

A sharp-witted, orphaned 12-year-old helps solve a perplexing crime in this intelligent series launch by Rundberg, set in 1880 Stockholm. Three months before the book’s start, a serial killer called the Night Raven was caught red-handed and executed—so it shocks young Mika when she overhears a cop say that a recent victim’s final words were that the Night Raven had come for him. When a newborn arrives at the Public Children’s Home, where longtime resident Mika takes up a mentor-like role for younger residents, she briefly forgets this impossible revelation, until the police report for the baby’s surrender earns a visit from Det. Valdemar Hoff. Frustrated by his colleagues’ ineptitude and impressed with Mika’s keen observations, Valdemar enlists her help in investigating the Night Raven’s possible return. And though Mika knows the work is dangerous, she perseveres, insisting that “if I can help catch him, I’ll have done something with my life, even if I’m risking death.” A rushed denouement shortchanges an intriguing setup, brilliant deduction, and an artfully crafted mystery. Still, Mika is a brave, resourceful heroine, and her warm relationships with Valdemar and her peers at the orphanage counterbalance the bleak backdrop. All characters cue as white. Ages 10–14. Agent: Carin Bacho Carniani, Koja Agency. (Nov.)