Thirteen year-old Trixie Belden is lives with her family: Mr. and Mrs. Belden, Trixie's two older brothers, Brian and Mart, and her younger brother Bobby on Crabapple Farm along the Hudson River. Brian and Mart are away at camp for the summer leaving Trixie to help their mother around the house and with young Bobby. The summer looks to be unbelievably boring and Trixie dreams of some excitement.
When a wealthy family moves into one of the neighboring mansions Trixie meets Honey Wheeler. Honey is the same age as Trixie and spends the summer with her governess Miss Trask. In the other mansion nearby to Crabapple Farm Jim Frayne seeks refuge in his miserly great-uncle's home after running away from his abusive stepfather, Jonesy.
When great-uncle is taken away with pneumonia Jim tells the girls the legend of a hidden treasure in his new home. The trio begin to search through the decrepit mansion for the treasure which will allow Jim to escape his step-father. Things begin to heat up when Jonesy comes looking for the runaway and Trixie's summer of boredom isn't as boring as she expects.
A mystery for younger readers The Secret of the Mansion is the first in a series of mysteries starring the young teen. The beginning of Honey and Trixie's friendship is rocky but settles into a relationship which can stand the test of time. The mystery and suspense are suitable to older children and young teens, but enjoyable by readers of all ages.
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