Santangelo Academy (referred to by some as "the Crazy School) is a boarding school for wayward teenagers who have run out of conventional schooling options. New teacher Madeline Dare finds that some of the "therapeutic" requirements prescribed by Dr. Santangelo are unconventional and downright sadistic. And when two kids are found dead, with Madeline framed as the killer, she finds out that something sinister is going on within the Crazy School.First, let's start off with something I didn't know before I began reading this book, this is the second book in the Madeline Dare mysteries. A Field of Darkness being the first and where it looks like you get more background information on the clever and witty Madeline. You definitely do not have to read a A Field of Darkness to enjoy The Crazy School though. There is some hinting as to Madeline's past but nothing that deters from this story.
Although it did have a slow beginning, Madeline, her hubby (which was a hoot), her students and the staff at the school quickly grow on you. Ms. Read gives her characters this funny, ironic, and even cynical humor that I just can't help but to love. I loved Maddie's therapy sessions... I mean she makes her therapist cry. Just classic really. I definitely had a few laugh out loud moments.Towards the second half of the book it really picks up its pace and you find the pages flying by as you try to uncover the mystery which is just as thrilling as it is heartbreaking.
This can be enjoyed by older teens and adults alike. Definitely one to add to your reading list if you are a fan of quick-witted heroines and well-crafted mysteries.
This book was provided for review by Hachette Book Group.
11 comments:
I was always on the fence with this one, but your review might want me to add it to my wishlist :)
I won a copy of this book and was excited, then I saw a bad review. I am glad you enjoyed this, I amk moving it back up the list. Love the cover.
Lovely cover. Great review.
Glad to know that you like it. I have this one and Field of Darkness in my TBR.
Melissa
How fun to have a name like Read!
Book sounds cute, too.
This caught my eye, but I wasn't sure whether it would hold up as a stand-alone. Great review...adding it to my TBR pile (do you think it will ever get smaller?!?)
Alison - we must be honest with ourselves, and just come to terms that our TBR pile will always be growing... not that I'm complaining. =p
Sounds like a good one! It is good that we do not need read the 1st one to enjoy this!
Ohhh sounds cute!!
{Btw, missed you these past 2 wks!!}
♥ V ♥
This sounds really fun and I've never heard of it before. Thanks for the review, I may just have to go check it out!
Loved your review. This certainly sounds like an interesting book, definitely something I might enjoy.
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