Step into the spine-chilling world of Scarlet and Ivy, where twin sisters unravel dark secrets in a Gothic boarding school that feels straight out of a mystery novel! Written by Sophie Cleverly, this young adult series blends heart-pounding suspense, 1930s nostalgia, and sisterly bonds, captivating readers with its eerie Rookwood School setting and clever plot twists.
The series kicks off with Ivy Grey, a shy girl forced to step into the shoes of her bold twin, Scarlet, who mysteriously vanishes from Rookwood. What follows is a thrilling ride through hidden diaries, creepy corridors, and shocking revelations that keep readers hooked. Perfect for fans of Murder Most Unladylike or Harry Potter’s boarding school vibes, Scarlet and Ivy is a must-read for mystery lovers.
How Scarlet and Ivy Began
Sophie Cleverly, born in Bath, England, in 1989, crafted Scarlet and Ivy during her Creative Writing studies at Bath Spa University. A class exercise sparked the idea: imagining a girl returning to a room with twin beds, but only one occupant. This haunting image birthed the story of a lost twin and a secret diary, evolving into a six-book series published by HarperCollins. Cleverly’s love for Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett’s blend of humor, heart, and horror shines through, giving the series its unique tone.
The Heart of Scarlet and Ivy
The series spans six books, each unraveling new mysteries at Rookwood School. The Lost Twin (2015) introduces Ivy’s quest to uncover Scarlet’s fate, following clues in scattered diary pages. The Whispers in the Walls (2015) sees the twins reunited, investigating thefts and a dark secret tied to their mother’s death. The Dance in the Dark (2016) dives into a ballet recital plagued by poison letters and a missing teacher, while The Last Secret (2019) wraps up with a high-stakes battle to save Rookwood from demolition.
Cleverly’s storytelling weaves Gothic elements—creaky halls, sinister headmasters, and ghostly rumors—with themes of identity, resilience, and sisterhood. The 1930s setting adds a timeless charm, while Rookwood’s oppressive rules and hidden passages create a claustrophobic yet thrilling backdrop. Readers praise the alternating perspectives of bold Scarlet and quiet Ivy, whose growth from stereotypes to complex heroines drives the emotional core.
Why Scarlet and Ivy Resonates
Scarlet and Ivy has carved a niche in middle-grade and young adult fiction, earning acclaim for its page-turning mysteries and relatable characters. The Guardian’s children’s reviews called it “a true nail-biting mystery,” while fans on Amazon laud its addictive pacing and vivid world-building. Its blend of historical drama and Gothic suspense appeals to readers aged 9–15, inspiring young sleuths to solve puzzles alongside the twins.
The series’ lasting appeal lies in its empowering message: courage and loyalty can overcome even the darkest secrets. By tackling bullying, grief, and self-discovery, Cleverly connects with readers navigating their own challenges, making Scarlet and Ivy a beloved escape into a world of adventure and heart.
- Publication Years: 2015–2019
- Number of Books: 6
- Publisher: HarperCollins
- Target Age: 9–15
Grab The Lost Twin and dive into Scarlet and Ivy’s mysterious world—Rookwood’s secrets are waiting to be uncovered!