The Girl in the Wall

In a violent thriller from author and PW contributor Benedis-Grab (Alive and Well in Prague, New York), two high school seniors re-evaluate their failed friendship under dangerous circumstances. Sera and Ariel have been estranged for nearly a year, after Sera betrayed a secret about Ariel, but Sera is forced to attend Ariel's birthday bash at her enormous Connect-icut mansion. During a private concert by rock star Hudson Winters, shots are fired, and a botched attempt to steal a multibillion-dollar fortune turns into hostage-taking. Ariel escapes into the mansion's network of secret passages, with Sera the only one who knows she's there. Benedis-Grab alternates between the two girls' perspectives; nearly every chapter ends with a cliffhanger, keeping tension high. Both girls respond capably to the chaotic situation, even finding time for romance amid the carnage (Ariel, a bit unbelievably, with one of the men responsible for her father's murder). Some late revelations about the perpetrators don't hold up to close scrutiny, but the action and high stakes should keep readers engaged. Ages 12%E2%80%93up. Agent: Sara Crowe, Harvey Klinger. (Dec.)