The Notorious Virtues

Two cousins compete in a trial to inherit the family fortune in this fantastical mystery from Hamilton (Rebel of the Sands). Sixteen-year-old Honora Holtzfall is reeling after the murder of her mother, heiress to the most powerful family in Walstad. Now Nora must participate in the Veritaz Trials, a competition held for every Holtzfall generation, to determine who is worthy of inheriting the family’s immense power. Nora is the clear front-runner, until her illegitimate cousin Lotte appears. The girls must compete against other cousins, and danger lurks around every corner—because even though her mother’s death was purportedly the result of a mugging, Nora knows there was more to it. With plucky 17-year-old reporter August Wolffe and her most trusted knight Theo, Nora will pursue the truth as she navigates magical challenges, dangerous assassins, and trials of the heart. Though dense exposition slows the lengthy narrative, an enigmatic premise, sly dialogue, and an immersive 1930s-style setting add grit to the complexly rendered class dynamics, making this a propulsive exploration of the bonds of family both biological and chosen. Ages 12–up. Agent: Molly Ker Hawn, Bent Agency. (Apr.)