Beyond the Cemetery Gate:
The Secret Keeper’s Daughter
* MIDWEST BOOK AWARD WINNER *
Chicago Writers' Association - Book of the Year - Runner Up
IPPY Gold Medal - Best YA eBook
IBPA Book Award - Silver Medalist * Dragonfly Book Award - Best Mystery & Best YA Novel * Silver Falchion Award Finalist * Firebird Award - Best Suspense * CIBA Young Adult Book Award - Semi-finalist
When the police rule her dad’s death an accidental overdose, 16-year-old Chloe refuses to believe it and vows to find his killer. Alone against a potentially corrupt, small-town police force, a persistent social worker seeking proof that she has adult supervision, and precariously low funds, Chloe learns that her dad’s life as a cemetery caretaker masked a web of family secrets that quite possibly led to his death—and are now putting her in mortal danger.
PRAISE FOR BEYOND THE CEMETERY GATE
"A gripping mystery that succeeds due to a headstrong protagonist who’s unwilling to fail."
- Kirkus Reviews
Top 100 Notable Indie Book of 2024
“A story that explores loss, courage, and unbreakable family bonds, offering readers an unforgettable journey through the secrets beyond the gate."
5-Stars from Readers' Favorite
“. . . an emotionally rich, suspenseful story that rests as much upon personal revelations and discoveries as it does upon mystery and suspense."
Midwest Book Review
“… a must-read and recommended for fans of mysteries looking for a gripping and compelling story.”
5-Stars - Reader Views Kids
“Not all secrets are buried in the grave. Beyond the Cemetery Gate is a nonstop read through a dark, twisting plot and the dangerous world of shadows and sinister people that 16-year-old Chloe must outrun and outsmart . . . A canny and gripping introduction to an exciting new series.”
- Patricia Skalka, Author of the Dave Cubiak Door County Mysteries
“Valerie Biel creates an emotionally rich, suspenseful story that rests as much upon personal revelations and discoveries as it does upon mystery and suspense.”
- Midwest Book Review
“Valerie Biel’s writing is fast-paced and sharp!”
- Christy Wopat, author of Almost a Mother and Always Ours
"A haunting YA mystery. Touching on everything from police ineptitude and community solidarity to the endless frustration of being patronized as a young person, this paranormal thriller confidently combines timely and relatable themes within a page-turning storyline."
- Self-Publishing Review
“Vulnerable but also whip smart, brave, and daring, Chloe investigates her dad’s murder, ultimately putting her own life at risk. This heart-in-your-throat novel pulsates with suspense as Chloe roots out secrets and exposes lies, ultimately discovering who she really is.”
- Jeannée Sacken, author of the award-winning Annie Hawkins series
"With its many layers of secrets, tightly woven plot, and great characters, Beyond the Cemetery Gate tops my list of books worth reading this year."
- Terri Karsten, author of A Mistake of Consequence
".. . imaginative storytelling, emotional depth, and action-packed narrative are artfully crafted . . . I devoured every page of this impactful and hope-filled book and eagerly await the next adventure in the Chloe and Maggie Mystery series.”
- Laurie Buchanan, author of the Sean McPherson crime thriller novels
“Biel’s writing is intense, suspenseful, and passionate.”
– K.M. Waldvogel, award-winning author
"Biel will take you on a wild ride in this mystery. She crafts a fantastic thriller that has a splash of romance, and a wonderful cast of friends."
– Barbara M. Britton, award-winning novelist
“Blending an amazing portrayal of a sometimes-stark reality with human willpower and the hope that comes in friendships, Valerie Biel gives us a novel that is both tender-hearted and thrilling."
– author Laurie Stevens
"Beyond the Cemetery Gates is about family, friendship, and trust versus greediness, violence, and crime – I was moved to tears by Chloe’s tenacity and strength."
– G.P. Gottlieb, Author of the Whipped & Sipped Cozy Mystery series
INSPIRATION FOR THE STORY
This story started out like so many do with just a snapshot of an idea and then the burning question — then what? I had so much fun answering that question over and over again as I wrote this novel. So much so, that partway through, as I began to love my characters more and more, I decided I wasn't ready to say goodbye to them after just one book, and that's how the Chloe & Maggie Mystery Series was born.
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