The Death Before Detention: A Funny Cosy Crime Mystery

Welcome to the Common Criminals' Club, a brand new cosy murder mystery series perfect for middle-grade and teen readers who enjoy suspense mixed with humor. If you are a fan of Robin Stevens, Katie Kirby, Derry Girls, or The Mysterious Benedict Society, this book offers a thrilling adventure reminiscent of the 'Thursday Murder Club' for younger audiences (ages 9-12).

Mae Flynn is accustomed to the chaos at her rural Irish Catholic boarding school, but discovering a dead body in the school kitchen is certainly unexpected. The victim, Conor Haddock, was the building's previous owner and had been discussing selling the property, putting him at odds with nearly every adult Mae knows. With suspects seemingly endless, Mae and her self-named Common Criminals' Club launch an investigation.

As Mae digs deeper, she uncovers secrets, battles mean girls and feral bats, and risks destroying her three-year friendship—all in the pursuit of solving a complex murder. The deeper she goes, the more she suspects everyone around her is hiding something, putting not only her lessons and friendships at stake, but her very life.

• Cosy murder mystery series starter featuring doodles, danger, and devious criminals.
• Follows Mae Flynn and the Common Criminals' Club as they investigate a murder at their boarding school.
• Features characters with unique strengths and weaknesses, such as expert-level observation, being a top-tier cross-country runner, and a high detention record.
• Engaging narrative suitable for readers aged 9 to 11 years.

• Author: Alison Weatherby
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Publication Date: June 25, 2026
• Print Length: 272 pages
• Reading Age: 9 - 11 years
• Dimensions: 131 x 17 x 198mm
• Weight: 188g
• ISBN-13: 978-1035084319

Step right up and discover your next reading obsession with this fast-paced, funny, and dangerous boarding school mystery.