Description

It's 1942, and the United States is at war. Henry Hamilton is an inquisitive twelve-year-old who dreams of being a reporter. Pursuing a story for his school newspaper, Henry’s investigation soon leads to a mysterious room inside his town's famous Biltmore Mansion. The mystery only grows deeper when he uncovers the secret of the room’s contents. As Henry pursues the story, hoping for his first real scoop, he encounters spies, dark forests, hidden tunnels, enemy saboteurs, famous artists, and even a long-dead president of the United States.

Based on a true event, this middle grade mystery features a WWII home front setting complete with frightening blackouts and great uncertainty; the timeless fascination of Biltmore House, the Vanderbilt family mansion; and the intrigue of the Nazis as art thieves, all woven into the empowering story of a boy who aspires to publish the truth. 

About the Author

As a lawyer, Deron R. Hicks investigates mysteries for a living. He is also the author of several books for young readers, including The Van Gogh Deception, which is part of the Lost Art Mysteries series. He lives in Warm Springs, Georgia, with his wife and children. To learn more, visit deronhicks.com.

Praise For…

(The Van Gogh Deception) "A mash-up of high culture, high tech, mystery and action . . . readers ages 9-13 will relish every surprise turnabout." — Wall Street Journal

(The Van Gogh Deception) "A suspenseful mystery romp with art appreciation and heartening trust in readers' intelligence." — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

(The Rembrandt Conspiracy) "[A] mixture of propulsive plotting, dynamic character work, and nifty art facts."  — Kirkus Reviews

(The Crown Heist) "Another strong entry in a consistently appealing series. The balance of character work, nifty art facts, and propulsive mystery-solving remains impeccable. Fans will be delighted." — Kirkus Reviews

(The Secrets of Shakespeare's Grave) "A fine traditional mystery with a modern sensibility." — Booklist