• Booklist Reviews : Booklist Reviews 2023 January #1
  *Starred Review* Seventeen-year-old Finn and his theater-obsessed family are about to realize the lifelong dream of one of Finn's moms: a limited run of a murder-mystery play set in the Victorian mansion they call home. The roof may be caving in, but hopefully the play will inspire a revenue stream and delay plans to sell the place. But things get off to a rocky start and rapidly go downhill, creating stress for Mama Lulu, a recent cancer survivor, and Finn, who's trying to maintain the Victorian vibe, impress his drama teacher, score points with his crush, get away from pesky Jade and her stupid idea about some hidden treasure, and deal with his paralyzing inability to remember his lines. Then comes an amazing opportunity: PBS wants to film a performance and sponsor a dinner . . . for a thousand dollars a plate. Will Finn be able to hold things together? Will Finn finally get to be with the girl he really loves? Most important, will Finn ever be able to follow his own dreams? (Spoiler alerts: yes, yes, and yes). Expect nonstop action, rounded characters, secrets, schemes, and sweet affirmations of unconditional family love. Grades 8-11. Copyright 2023 Booklist Reviews.

Nicole Kronzer is a former professional actor and improvisor who now teaches English and creative writing. She loves to knit and run (usually not at the same time) and has named all the plants in her classroom. Her debut novel, Unscripted, was called "a truly special book, written at exactly the right time" by Printz Award–winner Nina LaCour. Kronzer lives with her family in Minneapolis. Visit her online at nicolekronzer.com.