Truly Devious 3-Book Box Set: Truly Devious, Vanishing Stair, and Hand on the Wall (2020) Parents Guide: Is the book OK for kids?

Romance is a consistent subplot involving Stevie and David Eastman, characterized by intense emotional exchanges and several scenes of kissing and holding hands. While there is suggestive tension, particularly when the two are alone in dorm rooms or secluded spots on campus, the narrative does not include explicit sexual content or nudity. There is matter-of-fact representation of LGBTQ+ characters, such as Janelle Franklin’s relationship with Vi, which is treated with the same weight as heterosexual pairings…

The series features several deaths across two timelines, including the 1936 Ellingham kidnapping and present-day murders at the academy. A student, Hayes Major, is killed by carbon monoxide poisoning in a tunnel, while another character dies from a fall; these scenes involve descriptions of bodies, though the gore remains relatively contained for the genre. Historical murders involve blunt-force trauma and the discovery of skeletal remains later in the series. Forensic science is a major focus, meaning Stevie…

There is moderate use of profanity throughout the three novels, consistent with the realistic speech of modern teenagers. Common words include 'hell,' 'damn,' 'shit,' and 'bitch,' often used during moments of frustration or fear during the investigation. The 'f-word' appears sparingly, usually reserved for high-stakes arguments or moments of extreme shock. Some characters use insults or biting sarcasm, but there are no racial slurs or derogatory hate speech. The frequency of the language increases slightly in the…

Minor characters are occasionally seen drinking alcohol at clandestine parties, such as the one in the yurt or secret gatherings in dorm rooms. Stevie Bell takes prescription medication for her clinically diagnosed anxiety, and the narrative treats her pill regimen as a necessary and responsible part of her mental health care. There is some discussion of historical substance use, including 1930s-era drinking and tobacco use among the older Ellingham set. In the modern timeline, some students are mentioned to be…

The series explores heavy themes of obsession, grief, and the psychological pressure of being a 'gifted' student at a competitive school. Stevie Bell’s struggles with anxiety and panic attacks are central to the story, providing a realistic look at how mental health affects her daily life and her investigative work. The plot deals with the trauma of missing persons and the long-term impact of cold cases on families and descendants. Themes of betrayal are also prominent, as characters Stevie trusts are revealed to…