Blank Confession by Pete Hautman

This was our January pick for book club and one of the year's favorites.  Shayne Blank walks into the local police station and confesses to killing someone.  It takes some frenzied page turning to find out what happened, revealing some very surprising answers throughout the mystery--not to mention some fascinating characters.  As we wrapped things up, more than one of us wished a character like Shayne Blank existed in our school community. 

Skeleton Creek

Readers are left with teenager Ryan's journal and videos from his friend Sarah as they attempt to unlock the mystery of strange happenings in his Oregon hometown. The online videos definitely add to the creepiness factor. Sequels will follow.

Three Days by Donna Jo Napoli

This suspenseful story of a kidnapping begins with Jackie and her father traveling in Italy. While driving at night, her father suddenly passes out at the wheel. Jackie tries to get help and is picked up by two Italian men. Instead of taking her to help, they take her to an isolated farm house where she is forced to stay. A woman takes care of her there, but speaks only Italian. Jackie wants desperately to get home, but wonders if she ever will.