Although this book is the fourth in the series, readers can enjoy it independently. Elodie, Oscar, and Carnegie have solved crimes in previous books, and they’ve built a good reputation at the Biltmore Hotel, where they live. Elodie’s parents are world-famous art detectives, and they’re usually off in some other country tracking down art thieves. Elodie is the main character, and she develops a list of suspects that she keeps in her notebook. She considers motives, opportunity, and means for each one just like real detectives. The narrator mentions well-known fictional detectives and authors like Sherlock Holmes and Miss Marple, as Elodie often uses them for inspiration.
The characters are the highlight, as Elodie and Oscar are learning to blend their skills. Oscar is usually a humorous, goofy distraction, but he displays some new detective abilities in this book. He asks important questions and notices relevant clues, although he also adds new comedic moves to his acrobatic talents. Carnegie is Elodie's adorable little dog, and her nose often locates things that can’t be seen. Elodie constantly practices her observation skills, and the author points out things she discovers. Elodie is more frustrated than usual, since her investigation seems to eliminate all of her suspects. However, she’s forced to restart from the beginning, and that’s the key to solving the case.
What didn’t work as well:
Elodie still tends to jump to conclusions and narrow her focus to an innocent suspect. However, she becomes aware of it and learns to let the evidence guide her efforts.
The final verdict:
As with the previous three books, this series is perfect for young readers with a budding interest in solving mysteries. The story is easy to follow with endearing characters, and I recommend you try this book for yourself.
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