Photo Credits: Mount Holyoke College Archives and Special Collections
By Honora Quinn ’27
Staff Writer
2023’s “Killingly” by Katharine Beutner brought the dark academia vibes of “The Secret History” right to Mount Holyoke, as the book was inspired by the institution's own history. The following trio of books, centered around the Seven Sister colleges, includes recommendations for fans of the more cut and dry murder mystery, as well as those interested in the secrets hidden within the walls of higher education.
“Killingly” by Katharine Beutner
Since its release in 2023, “Killingly” by Katharine Beutner has been a frequent topic of campus discussion. The mystery traces the real-life events surrounding the 1897 disappearance of a student, Bertha Mellish, and the subsequent investigation that followed. Beutner, a Smith alum, has come to campus numerous times to talk about the novel with students, alums and the greater community. A companion novel is in development following one of the side characters: a private investigator named Higham. His next adventure will feature historical journalist Nellie Bly.
“Death At Vassar” by Mathilde Merlot
If you liked the murder mystery aspect of “Killingly”, but would like something more modern than the 1890s, look no further than “Death At Vassar.” Set in 1959, the story follows amateur sleuth Madeleine Rousseau. At first, she can focus on little more than her dreams of a summer exchange program in Paris, but before long, she gets swept up by the chaos and secrets being unearthed on her campus. These strange events seemingly coincide with the arrival of her new roommate, Rose Suggs.
“We Keep The Dead Close” by Becky Cooper
If diving into the real, haunting history of “Killingly” kept you searching for more true campus cases, check out “We Keep The Dead Close,” set in part at Radcliffe College. The nonfiction book follows author Becky Cooper through her decade-long investigation into the unsolved death of Jane Britton in 1969, the year Radcliffe College began to merge with Harvard University. The novel begins with ghost stories and rumors passed along and perpetuated by students, then later delves into Cooper’s quest for the truth. The book has been highlighted by publications such as The New York Times and The Boston Globe. The latter praised Cooper as a “stylish and fearless writer,” who not only explored the cold case, but also herself and her motives for unearthing it.