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Mystery at the Biltmore #1
Mystery at the Biltmore: The Vanderhoff Heist
The Biltmore in New York City is full of mysteries, and Elodie LaRue, a novice detective, plans to piece together the clues and solve the case of the missing jewels.
Left behind by her globe-trotting detective parents once again, Elodie decides to prove she’s worthy of joining them on a case by setting up her own detective agency at her renowned Upper West Side home, The Biltmore.
When a pair of sapphire and diamond earrings mysteriously disappear from Mrs. Vanderzoot’s apartment, Elodie is asked to solve the case. Elodie begins her investigation the way any good detective would, looking for clues and potential suspects. With twists, turns, and suspects galore, will Elodie be able to prove she has what it takes to solve a crime? Or will the LaRue Detective Agency fail on its first case? As Elodie, her dog Carnegie, and new friend Oscar (a self-proclaimed parkour master) delve deeper into the mystery, they encounter a quirky cast of characters, an array of clues, and a little bit of fun.
Colored vignettes by award-winning artist, Peggy Collins, are scattered throughout the story, bringing additional humor to the cast of quirky characters.
From the award-winning author of The Umbrella House, Colleen Nelson brings another New York apartment building to life in Mystery at the Biltmore. Written with charm and wit, Mystery at The Biltmore is Only Murders in the Building meets Harriet the Spy.
Left behind by her globe-trotting detective parents once again, Elodie decides to prove she’s worthy of joining them on a case by setting up her own detective agency at her renowned Upper West Side home, The Biltmore.
When a pair of sapphire and diamond earrings mysteriously disappear from Mrs. Vanderzoot’s apartment, Elodie is asked to solve the case. Elodie begins her investigation the way any good detective would, looking for clues and potential suspects. With twists, turns, and suspects galore, will Elodie be able to prove she has what it takes to solve a crime? Or will the LaRue Detective Agency fail on its first case? As Elodie, her dog Carnegie, and new friend Oscar (a self-proclaimed parkour master) delve deeper into the mystery, they encounter a quirky cast of characters, an array of clues, and a little bit of fun.
Colored vignettes by award-winning artist, Peggy Collins, are scattered throughout the story, bringing additional humor to the cast of quirky characters.
From the award-winning author of The Umbrella House, Colleen Nelson brings another New York apartment building to life in Mystery at the Biltmore. Written with charm and wit, Mystery at The Biltmore is Only Murders in the Building meets Harriet the Spy.
Kindle Edition
First published October 8, 2024
3 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
Colleen Nelson
30 books131 followersColleen Nelson is the author of YA fiction books Finding Hope (2016), 250 Hours (2015), The Fall (2013) and Tori by Design (2011). 'The Fall' and 'Tori by Design' both won the McNally Robinson Book of the Year Award. 'The Fall' was also nominated for the White Pine Award. Currently living in Winnipeg with her husband, two young sons and three grown step-children, Colleen manages to eke out time to write everyday, but usually in the early morning after a strong cup of coffee. A junior high school teacher for ten years before having children, Colleen is familiar and comfortable with the tricky phase of life called 'adolescence'. Now a Teacher-Librarian in Winnipeg, Canada, Colleen is constantly on the look-out for books that will catch the attention of her reading-reluctant sons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
June 3, 2025
Mystery at the Biltmore: The Vanderhoff Heist is a delightful and engaging read that introduces readers to Elodie LaRue—a sharp, determined girl with big dreams of becoming a detective, just like her famous art-investigator parents. When Mrs. Vanderhoff’s priceless earrings go missing, Elodie sees the perfect chance to prove herself. Even though adults don’t always take her seriously, Elodie is determined to make a name for herself—and this case becomes her first big step.
The characters in this book are really well developed and full of personality. Elodie is smart and tenacious, Oscar is full of energy and charm (and his obsession with parkour is hilarious), and Carnegie, Elodie's dog, is both adorable and extremely helpful. The dynamic between the characters is fun and endearing, and their personalities really shine through.
The mystery itself is light and well-paced—great for kids who are just getting into the genre. The writing is accessible, the humor hits just right, and the illustrations scattered throughout add an extra layer of fun and personality to the story.
Highly recommended for ages 6–10, especially for kids who enjoy solving puzzles, laughing along the way, and rooting for underdog heroes. I loved it and can’t wait to read the next books in the series!
The characters in this book are really well developed and full of personality. Elodie is smart and tenacious, Oscar is full of energy and charm (and his obsession with parkour is hilarious), and Carnegie, Elodie's dog, is both adorable and extremely helpful. The dynamic between the characters is fun and endearing, and their personalities really shine through.
The mystery itself is light and well-paced—great for kids who are just getting into the genre. The writing is accessible, the humor hits just right, and the illustrations scattered throughout add an extra layer of fun and personality to the story.
Highly recommended for ages 6–10, especially for kids who enjoy solving puzzles, laughing along the way, and rooting for underdog heroes. I loved it and can’t wait to read the next books in the series!
February 28, 2025
Elodie decides to start a detective business, and she gets her first big case when some valuable earrings are stolen. She is joined by her dog, Carnegie, and her new neighbor, Oscar, who loves tumbling and acrobatics. Most adults don't take a child detective seriously, but Elodie is determined to prove herself. She follows the clues and regards everyone as a suspect, but all the neighbors are so nice. None of them would steal the jewels... would they?
This is such a fun mystery! I loved the cute characters, and all the varied personalities of the neighbors. The mystery takes many twists and turns as Elodie tries to investigate every possible avenue of inquiry. Most of the time she hits a dead end, until one clue finally becomes clear.
The writing is simple (just right for this age group), but it also has a charm and warmth that draws the reader into the story. Even reading as an adult, I really enjoyed it!
This book was marked as "Nothing Found" on the Screen It First website, indicating that there is no sensitive or objectionable content. https://screenitfirst.com/book/myster...
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
This is such a fun mystery! I loved the cute characters, and all the varied personalities of the neighbors. The mystery takes many twists and turns as Elodie tries to investigate every possible avenue of inquiry. Most of the time she hits a dead end, until one clue finally becomes clear.
The writing is simple (just right for this age group), but it also has a charm and warmth that draws the reader into the story. Even reading as an adult, I really enjoyed it!
This book was marked as "Nothing Found" on the Screen It First website, indicating that there is no sensitive or objectionable content. https://screenitfirst.com/book/myster...
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
October 11, 2024
I love this early chapter book first-instalment of a brand new series by one of my favourite children’s authors. Interesting characters, a mystery to solve and a little terrier named Carnegie make this a surefire hit with the elementary crowd! Highly recommend!
December 9, 2024
Elodie LaRue lives at the Biltmore, a large apartment building on New York’s Upper West Side. Elodie’s parents are world-famous art detectives; consequently, they travel a lot, leaving Elodie in the care of her nanny, the kindly artist Miss Rosa, and the company of a West Highland terrier named Carnegie. When her parents jet off on yet another case, Elodie decides to start her own detective agency, in hopes that they will consider taking her along on their next trip. After posting a sign in the building, she snags her 1st case right away: her neighbor Mrs. Vanderhoff’s earrings are missing, and appear to have been stolen right off her bedside table while she was sleeping! Mrs. Vanderhoff’s sweet housekeeper, Agnes, is the obvious suspect, but Elodie is certain she wouldn’t have done it, so she sets out with Carnegie to conduct interviews and look for clues. They soon meet Oscar, a boy about Elodie’s age whose family is just moving into the Biltmore. The two kids make friends quickly, and Oscar jumps right into Elodie’s investigation. The young detective leaves no stone unturned as she checks in with several neighbors, the doormen from both sides of the building, even a florist delivery driver. Oscar is in training to be a parkour master and stuntman, and his agility and climbing skills come in handy more than once as Elodie pursues her case. When they narrow down their leads, they set a clever trap for the suspected (but surprising) thief, and close the case quite neatly, just as the police finally arrive on the scene.
This is a delightful start to a new series that is sure to be popular especially with those who prefer straight-up, non-scary mysteries. Elodie is a plucky, likable heroine; readers will admire the way she capitalizes on the absence of her parents even as she sorely misses them. Oscar and Carnegie are valuable sidekicks each in their own way, and Elodie’s surrogate parent Miss Rosa is a steady, wise presence. The supporting cast provides a lot of depth to the story and clearly sets the stage for future installments - there are a lot of eccentric characters at the Biltmore! The detective story is fun to follow, with several red herrings and cleverly placed clues. Astute readers will definitely enjoy solving the mystery right alongside Elodie and her cohorts. The narrative is fast-paced and full of authentically witty dialogue. Charming, colorful illustrations appear throughout, giving the audience a clear picture of the setting and the many residents of the Biltmore. An author’s note subtitled “What’s true and what’s not…” sheds light on Colleen Nelson’s inspiration for the book, including that the Biltmore is based on a real building in New York called the Apthorp. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
This is a delightful start to a new series that is sure to be popular especially with those who prefer straight-up, non-scary mysteries. Elodie is a plucky, likable heroine; readers will admire the way she capitalizes on the absence of her parents even as she sorely misses them. Oscar and Carnegie are valuable sidekicks each in their own way, and Elodie’s surrogate parent Miss Rosa is a steady, wise presence. The supporting cast provides a lot of depth to the story and clearly sets the stage for future installments - there are a lot of eccentric characters at the Biltmore! The detective story is fun to follow, with several red herrings and cleverly placed clues. Astute readers will definitely enjoy solving the mystery right alongside Elodie and her cohorts. The narrative is fast-paced and full of authentically witty dialogue. Charming, colorful illustrations appear throughout, giving the audience a clear picture of the setting and the many residents of the Biltmore. An author’s note subtitled “What’s true and what’s not…” sheds light on Colleen Nelson’s inspiration for the book, including that the Biltmore is based on a real building in New York called the Apthorp. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
November 9, 2024
Elodie LaRue is often left behind while her globetrotting, detective parents travel far and wide for their work. Though she is sometimes lonely, Elodie is nothing if not determined, and when her parents leave her at home yet again, she decides to step into the detective business herself. When Elodie tells the residents of her New York City apartment building about her plans, she is pleased to discover that a robbery had occurred just the night before–and she is called to work on the case. Together with her new friend Oscar and her beloved dog Carnegie, the companions examine the clues from every angle in order to determine exactly what happened and to help return the missing jewels to their rightful owner.
This jaunty middle grade novel is as accessible as it is entertaining, featuring a varied cast of characters and a dynamic writing style. Full-color illustrations are found throughout the novel, and a good amount of white space rests between each line of text. Even though the chapters themselves are relatively long, the narrative moves quickly, and the thick, glossy pages offer a sense of accomplishment with each turn. Built on a sturdy hardcover and including a ribbon bookmark, this book has a high-quality presentation that will appeal to young readers while promising the ability to survive multiple readings.
A wide range of characters lives in and around Elodie's apartment building, and this adds a pleasant layer to the storytelling. As Elodie collects clues about the missing jewels, she interacts with several people and hears their stories with as much impartiality as possible. She frequently reminds herself that the truth may not be what it initially seems, and this is a helpful reminder for readers of all ages. Additionally, her friendship with Oscar and her generally positive demeanor showcase Elodie as a character that young readers can emulate in their own lives. This clever, entertaining mystery is a good fit for confident young readers who appreciate intriguing narratives and stories with heart.
This jaunty middle grade novel is as accessible as it is entertaining, featuring a varied cast of characters and a dynamic writing style. Full-color illustrations are found throughout the novel, and a good amount of white space rests between each line of text. Even though the chapters themselves are relatively long, the narrative moves quickly, and the thick, glossy pages offer a sense of accomplishment with each turn. Built on a sturdy hardcover and including a ribbon bookmark, this book has a high-quality presentation that will appeal to young readers while promising the ability to survive multiple readings.
A wide range of characters lives in and around Elodie's apartment building, and this adds a pleasant layer to the storytelling. As Elodie collects clues about the missing jewels, she interacts with several people and hears their stories with as much impartiality as possible. She frequently reminds herself that the truth may not be what it initially seems, and this is a helpful reminder for readers of all ages. Additionally, her friendship with Oscar and her generally positive demeanor showcase Elodie as a character that young readers can emulate in their own lives. This clever, entertaining mystery is a good fit for confident young readers who appreciate intriguing narratives and stories with heart.
December 9, 2024
What worked:
Elodie’s parents are famous detectives who investigate art thefts around the world. They won’t let Elodie accompany them on their trips but she’s learned investigative skills from talking with them. She wonders if anyone will want a young girl to investigate their cases but she’s confident she can do the job. A valuable piece of inspiration comes from her housekeeper, Ms. Rosa, who said that just because there hasn’t been a detective her age, why can’t there be one now? Elodie keeps track of clues in her notebook as she explores the elements of all crimes: suspects, motives, and how they were done.
The Biltmore holds many unique personalities as Elodie investigates the theft of Mrs. Vanderhoff’s earrings. Elodie is joined by Oscar, a daredevil young boy who is angry about moving to the hotel. Other residents become suspects although Elodie thinks they’re all so nice that she can’t imagine them as thieves. Mrs. Vanderhoff has accused her housekeeper of the theft but Agnes is the one who contacts Elodie about the crime. Freddie is the friendly doorman who has keys to all of the apartments. An orchid enthusiast had a falling out with Mrs. Vanderhoff and the kids note raising flowers is an expensive hobby. One of the Flying Wallendas lives across the courtyard and could have entered the apartment without using the door. Another resident has transformed his place into a bird sanctuary and might need money to care for them. It’s Elodie’s task to deduce the identity of the real jewel thief.
What didn’t work as well:
The plot is simple without serious complications so more experienced readers may be disappointed. As soon as Elodie finds a suspect she thinks of a reason why it can’t be them. It feels like the last suspect she finds will be the guilty party.
The final verdict:
Elodie is a charming character and the story is perfect for emerging mystery lovers. Cute, color illustrations are included to help bring the characters to life. I recommend you give this book a shot.
Elodie’s parents are famous detectives who investigate art thefts around the world. They won’t let Elodie accompany them on their trips but she’s learned investigative skills from talking with them. She wonders if anyone will want a young girl to investigate their cases but she’s confident she can do the job. A valuable piece of inspiration comes from her housekeeper, Ms. Rosa, who said that just because there hasn’t been a detective her age, why can’t there be one now? Elodie keeps track of clues in her notebook as she explores the elements of all crimes: suspects, motives, and how they were done.
The Biltmore holds many unique personalities as Elodie investigates the theft of Mrs. Vanderhoff’s earrings. Elodie is joined by Oscar, a daredevil young boy who is angry about moving to the hotel. Other residents become suspects although Elodie thinks they’re all so nice that she can’t imagine them as thieves. Mrs. Vanderhoff has accused her housekeeper of the theft but Agnes is the one who contacts Elodie about the crime. Freddie is the friendly doorman who has keys to all of the apartments. An orchid enthusiast had a falling out with Mrs. Vanderhoff and the kids note raising flowers is an expensive hobby. One of the Flying Wallendas lives across the courtyard and could have entered the apartment without using the door. Another resident has transformed his place into a bird sanctuary and might need money to care for them. It’s Elodie’s task to deduce the identity of the real jewel thief.
What didn’t work as well:
The plot is simple without serious complications so more experienced readers may be disappointed. As soon as Elodie finds a suspect she thinks of a reason why it can’t be them. It feels like the last suspect she finds will be the guilty party.
The final verdict:
Elodie is a charming character and the story is perfect for emerging mystery lovers. Cute, color illustrations are included to help bring the characters to life. I recommend you give this book a shot.
January 6, 2025
Fast-paced and truly immersive, this mystery chapter book ticks all the boxes for young aspiring detectives. The main character, a budding detective named Elodie, decides early on to keep an open mind and not jump to any unfair conclusions about suspects. Acceptance, understanding, and empathy serve her well as she solves her first case, makes a new friend, and appreciates each and every one of the hard working members of the community that make her apartment building, the Biltmore (similar to the famed Arconia in the Only Murders Franchise) such a lovely place to live.
All of the drama and intrigue littles crave but set within feel good tones and a delightful rhythm makes this a great choice for any age. It may be tailored to independent readers in the 7-10 age group, but it’s also perfect as a read aloud for younger children and serves as a lovely diversion for adults, too.
The reader finds themselves transported within the walls and courtyard of the fictionalized apartment building in a way only achievable by an author highly skilled in the art of research. Endearing full color illustrations of the whole quirky cast of characters are sprinkled throughout, including everyone’s favorite furry gumshoe, Carnegie, the well dressed West Highland Terrier.
All of the drama and intrigue littles crave but set within feel good tones and a delightful rhythm makes this a great choice for any age. It may be tailored to independent readers in the 7-10 age group, but it’s also perfect as a read aloud for younger children and serves as a lovely diversion for adults, too.
The reader finds themselves transported within the walls and courtyard of the fictionalized apartment building in a way only achievable by an author highly skilled in the art of research. Endearing full color illustrations of the whole quirky cast of characters are sprinkled throughout, including everyone’s favorite furry gumshoe, Carnegie, the well dressed West Highland Terrier.
December 14, 2024
Opening lines from the book ...
Elodie LaRue lived in #5D at The Biltmore, which, according to everyone who lived there, was the best building in the New York City's Upper West Side. She had a West Highland Terrier named Carnegie who was Scottish by birth, but a New Yorker through and through. Elodie's mother and father were globe-trotting art crime investigators and rarely home. Luckily, they employed Miss Rosa to care for their daughter and her dog.
What makes this book stand out ...
This was such a cute mystery! Elodie, daughter of art crime investigators, decides to advertise her own detective agency. Her first customer is Mrs. Vanderhoff reveals that she's missing her very expensive earrings. Elodie is set to take the case!
Elodie meets a new boy named Oscar and enlists his help with the investigation. He's a climber and "in training" to be a stunt man, so that comes in handy. There are plenty of red herrings and possiblities for who stole Mrs. Vanderhoff's earrings. I did solve the mystery (or at least suspected the solution) but I do think this would be a fun read for younger readers, especially those who want to get into mysteries.
Elodie LaRue lived in #5D at The Biltmore, which, according to everyone who lived there, was the best building in the New York City's Upper West Side. She had a West Highland Terrier named Carnegie who was Scottish by birth, but a New Yorker through and through. Elodie's mother and father were globe-trotting art crime investigators and rarely home. Luckily, they employed Miss Rosa to care for their daughter and her dog.
What makes this book stand out ...
This was such a cute mystery! Elodie, daughter of art crime investigators, decides to advertise her own detective agency. Her first customer is Mrs. Vanderhoff reveals that she's missing her very expensive earrings. Elodie is set to take the case!
Elodie meets a new boy named Oscar and enlists his help with the investigation. He's a climber and "in training" to be a stunt man, so that comes in handy. There are plenty of red herrings and possiblities for who stole Mrs. Vanderhoff's earrings. I did solve the mystery (or at least suspected the solution) but I do think this would be a fun read for younger readers, especially those who want to get into mysteries.
July 4, 2025
Someone recommended this (newish) series on a middle grade Facebook page, and I’m so glad they did!
As a 4th grade ELA teacher, my students are always looking for mysteries, and I’m sure this series will be a hit.
Set at the fictitious Biltmore hotel in NYC, young Elodie is determined to become a detective (like her famous art-investigator parents). When Mrs. Vanderhoff’s extremely expensive sapphire and diamond earrings go missing, Elodie sees the perfect opportunity for her first case!
With the help of Oscar, a new move-in kid with parkour skills, and her dog Carnegie, Elodie introduces readers to an intriguing cast of potential suspects as she interviews the Biltmore residents and staff.
Vibrant illustrations by Peggy Collins can be found throughout the book, and at only 127 pages, this is perfect for readers in grades 2-4. As an adult reader, I felt “Only Murders in the Building” vibes, and when I finished, I found that referenced in the author’s note!
Highly recommend - I will be buying this and book 2 (The Classified Catnapping) for my classroom library. Book 3 (A Recipe for Robbery) pubs in September, too!
As a 4th grade ELA teacher, my students are always looking for mysteries, and I’m sure this series will be a hit.
Set at the fictitious Biltmore hotel in NYC, young Elodie is determined to become a detective (like her famous art-investigator parents). When Mrs. Vanderhoff’s extremely expensive sapphire and diamond earrings go missing, Elodie sees the perfect opportunity for her first case!
With the help of Oscar, a new move-in kid with parkour skills, and her dog Carnegie, Elodie introduces readers to an intriguing cast of potential suspects as she interviews the Biltmore residents and staff.
Vibrant illustrations by Peggy Collins can be found throughout the book, and at only 127 pages, this is perfect for readers in grades 2-4. As an adult reader, I felt “Only Murders in the Building” vibes, and when I finished, I found that referenced in the author’s note!
Highly recommend - I will be buying this and book 2 (The Classified Catnapping) for my classroom library. Book 3 (A Recipe for Robbery) pubs in September, too!
March 27, 2025
Obviously an ode to the Agatha Christie-type mysteries of years past, this book is rife with bright, lovable characters, animal sidekicks, imaginative settings, and is lovingly contained as the first in a series perfect for young middle-graders. The mystery was fun and kid-friendly with a great twist as to who the culprit is! I sped through it and enjoyed every minute.
That all being said, I do wonder at the inherent classism centred in the genre... The residents Eloise interacts with are wealthy white socialites with rich-people hobbies. Everyone who isn't white, including Oscar, are "the help" - her protege, deliverymen, bellhops, doormen... Many are seen as poor (unable to afford flowers) or unwanted (the treatment of the second tower doorman). As an adult I recognize that these aspects are just part of the stories the author is trying to emulate. But sitting back and looking at the book as a whole leaves me conflicted as to whether I can in good faith recommend this book to kids who ask.
That all being said, I do wonder at the inherent classism centred in the genre... The residents Eloise interacts with are wealthy white socialites with rich-people hobbies. Everyone who isn't white, including Oscar, are "the help" - her protege, deliverymen, bellhops, doormen... Many are seen as poor (unable to afford flowers) or unwanted (the treatment of the second tower doorman). As an adult I recognize that these aspects are just part of the stories the author is trying to emulate. But sitting back and looking at the book as a whole leaves me conflicted as to whether I can in good faith recommend this book to kids who ask.
March 18, 2025
Calling all fans of Only Murders in the Building! This chapter book is perfect for those young 🔍 detectives in your life. With her art-investigator parents out of town, Elodie LaRue is taking on her own first case in the historic 🏢 Biltmore building. Wealthy architect, Mrs. Vanderhoff’s 👒 glamorous sapphire earrings disappeared right off of her dresser in the middle of the night and her first assumption is her housekeeper, Agnes. All the clues point elsewhere. Elodie and her new friend Oscar follow the 🪶 evidence wherever it takes them, encountering many 🦜 whimsical residents and neighbors along the way. This is a great for kids who still like a bit of illustration but are looking for something more challenging. The Biltmore is based on a real apartment in NYC (The Anthorp) just like the fictional Arconia.
March 8, 2025
"Mystery at the Biltmore: The Vanderhoff Heist by author Colleen Nelson has written a lovely tale of the daughter of parents who have their own art theft retrieval business but who have to leave the heroine of this story, Elodie LaRue, at home in the Biltmore Hotel in New York City. Her nanny and parents' housekeeper, Miss Rosa, takes care of Elodie and encourages this young girl to follow through with her idea of creating her own investigative business. Elodie, with her dog Carnegie and new friend Oscar, track down Mrs. Vanderhoff's missing earrings. As Elodie works the case, interviewing various Biltmore employees/friends, taking notes, and piecing together a list of possible suspects. It's a fun read with positive imagery and good deeds.
November 25, 2025
Elodie has been left behind while her detective parents go to Europe to solve another case, so she decides to start her own detective agency in her apartment building in NYC. (Sounds similar to Only Murders in the Building, but for elementary school readers.) When a neighbor's expensive earrings go missing, the housekeeper reaches out to Elodie to clear her name. With only a few people who either live or work in the apartment building have access, one of their neighbors must be the culprit, but who? A good mystery step up from most 1st chapter books. There are clues that help readers piece it together. The illustrations make it less intimidating to those just moving past 1st chapter books. I don't love the illustration style, but they help readers remember and differentiate characters.
September 1, 2025
Elodie’s parents are spies, but they spend a lot of time away on missions. She decides to follow in the family’s footsteps by becoming a detective, and soon she is hired for her first case after a neighbor loses her expensive jewelry.
Elodie, her dog, and her new neighbor Oscar traipse around their apartment building (the titular Biltmore) interviewing a variety of suspects until they finally catch the unsuspecting thief.
This is a bit long for a starter chapter book, and there aren’t loads of illustrations (but they are cute!). There isn’t much detective work, as each “suspect” is asked a few questions, they give their alibi, and Elodie moves on.
Elodie, her dog, and her new neighbor Oscar traipse around their apartment building (the titular Biltmore) interviewing a variety of suspects until they finally catch the unsuspecting thief.
This is a bit long for a starter chapter book, and there aren’t loads of illustrations (but they are cute!). There isn’t much detective work, as each “suspect” is asked a few questions, they give their alibi, and Elodie moves on.
October 14, 2024
Colleen Nelson's new detective chapter book series is delightful. When young Elodie LaRue's parents leave for Europe to solve an art theft, leaving her to spend her summer days without them, she decides to keep busy. Her nanny suggests that she start a detective agency. Their NYC West side building is full of mysteries. As the nanny says, just because their hasn't been a detective as young as Elodie, doesn't mean that it can't be done. The plot is well crafted and will keep young children guessing. Elodie is smart and resourceful and the building is full of colorful characters who are sure to make the reader smile. Peggy Collins has brought the characters to life with her bold bright illustrations. I received a temporary Adobe Digital Edition from the publisher, but the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. Elodie reminds me of an updated Encyclopedia Brown and I can't wait to read her next adventure, Mystery at the Biltmore #2: The Classified Catnapping.
July 17, 2025
My nine-year-old enjoys this series. The mysteries all center around the Biltmore apartment building, where protagonist and budding sleuth Elodie lives, so the adventures are on a smaller scale than, say, the globetrotting Boxcar Children. And chapters primarily revolve around suspecting/investigating one resident after another so the action and narrative flow aren't always as strong as I'd personally enjoy. But, they are still enjoyable mysteries (especially for animal-lovers) and I think the occasional full-color illustrations will appeal to some young readers.
November 13, 2024
Mystery At The Biltmore is a charming, fun, suspenseful, funny, captivating, and wonderful read! Elodie is such a lovable character full of determination, wit, and personality. Her critical thinking skills are wonderful. I love her partnership with her precious pups Carnegie and nee friend Oscar. The three of them make the story so lively and fun. Not to mention it is wonderful mystery full of surprises!
June 26, 2024
EARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
This is the beginning of a great introduction to the residents of the Biltmore, an apartment building in New York. Elodie’s parents are detectives, and so when she needs to find something to do during the summer, solving crimes is a natural choice. This is a great choice for younger advanced readers, and I am looking forward to her next case.
This is the beginning of a great introduction to the residents of the Biltmore, an apartment building in New York. Elodie’s parents are detectives, and so when she needs to find something to do during the summer, solving crimes is a natural choice. This is a great choice for younger advanced readers, and I am looking forward to her next case.
November 29, 2024
Colleen Nelson has a perfect voice for this fun, middle grade mystery. Her main character, Elodie, exudes energy and just enough attitude. Set in New York City, the setting is enhanced with great drawings. A satisfying, quick read. Also the hardcover edition of this book is a beautiful physical object with glossy, thick pages and even a ribbon book-marker.
January 17, 2025
Pleasant book about a girl who starts her own detective agency in her apartment building. She gets her dog and a new friend to help her track down clues and interview suspects to solve a burglary.
The only thing I didn't like was her neglectful parents. They go off all the time for months and leave Elodie with a nanny.
The only thing I didn't like was her neglectful parents. They go off all the time for months and leave Elodie with a nanny.
November 4, 2025
3 stars. This book is physically beautiful: well made, great illustrations and styling. I read it with my eleven year old but it was probably a better match for my eight year old. It’s a quick, fun mystery. We likely will still try the next one, but I think Nelson’s other books (Umbrella House, the Harvey series, etc.) are better suited to the tween age group.
July 17, 2024
Hi there! I'm the author! Thanks so much for reading and reviewing! I had so much fun writing this book and love how Peggy Collins's illustrations brought the characters to life. Book #2 is out Spring 2025!
August 31, 2024
Loved getting a peek into the old glamour of NYC’s Upper West Side with plucky kid detective Elodie and her sidekicks, Oscar and Carnegie, as they solve the mystery of Mrs. Vanderhoff’s missing earrings. Peggy Collin’s sweet illustrations are a gorgeous addition. Loved every page!
November 24, 2025
The target audience won't recognize the "Only Murders in the Building" vibe but I loved it. As an adult, I also guessed who the thief was pretty early on, but I still enjoyed Elodie and Oscar's detecting. For younger middle grade mystery fans.
April 7, 2025
3.5 stars
Cute mystery build around a daughter of famous detectives
Cute mystery build around a daughter of famous detectives
June 10, 2025
With a fast pace and fun characters, this is the beginning of a very enjoyable series!
June 22, 2025
4 1/2 stars
This was a fun, cute book with vivid descriptions and characters, and whimsical art. I enjoyed it and look forward to reading the next one.
This was a fun, cute book with vivid descriptions and characters, and whimsical art. I enjoyed it and look forward to reading the next one.
July 3, 2025
Cute and simple mystery, great for 9-10 year olds. I figured out the answer pretty early on, but I'm not the chosen audience. Very enjoyable.
September 28, 2025
Sweet, little book about a young sleuth starting her own detective agency and pursuing the truth. Listened on audio with my younger girls. We plan to listen to the next one in the series as well.
October 18, 2025
This is a cute mystery for new readers.
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