Winterhouse by Ben Guterson

When Elizabeth’s guardians send her away to a strange hotel for Christmas vacation, she expects to spend a miserable holiday there. Instead, she finds a new friend and a fascinating mystery . . . and maybe even a hint of magic, and a little bit of danger.

This is a solid entry in the genre of middle-grade puzzle novels, perfect for young readers who love anagrams and secret codes. There were enough clues to figure out the solution to one big riddle before the main character does, which is always gratifying. I did think that one particular plot element relied too heavily on coincidence, but all in all, a satisfying read. This book name-checks everything from The Westing Game to Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library, which makes it seem a little self-conscious at times, but readers familiar with those works will appreciate the wink and nudge. Recommended to those who enjoy this sort of book.

(Reviewed from a copy borrowed through my library system.)