Nancy Drew and the Hidden Staircase

Sixteen-year-old Nancy Drew grapples with the emotional aftermath of her mother's death. As she tries to adapt to her new life with her father in River Heights, the challenges of her grief begin to surface.

While trying to maintain the charm of River Heights, Carson Drew, Nancy's father, finds himself at odds with Willie Wharton, a local thug. Wharton's intimidation tactics not only target Carson but also threaten Nancy, creating an atmosphere of fear.

Completing her community service requirement, Nancy meets Flora, an elderly woman troubled by strange disturbances in her home. Intrigued and sensing a mystery, Nancy invites Flora's niece, Helen, to help investigate.

As night falls in Flora's home, Nancy and Helen experience a series of chilling events. Flickering lights and a shadowy figure warning them to stop their inquiries heighten the tension and mystery surrounding Flora's hauntings.

The following morning, Nancy deduces that the strange happenings were deliberately orchestrated to scare them away. Delving deeper, she and Helen discover a hidden passage that leads them to the truth behind the ghostly phenomena.

Nancy and Helen's investigation reveals that the disturbances were manufactured using props—a modified fuse box and a device emitting concentrated nutmeg. The clever setup is unveiled, eliminating any supernatural explanations.

As Carson goes on a business trip, Nancy begins to sense that something is wrong. Her unease grows when her calls to Nate, Carson's friend, go unanswered, instilling a deep sense of dread in her.

Nancy's concerns prompt her and Helen to check out the hotel where Carson was supposed to be staying. Their investigation reveals alarming information: Carson has not checked out, and his belongings, including his phone, remain in his room.

Reviewing security footage from the hotel, Nancy uncovers a frightening revelation. Carson has been kidnapped by Willie Wharton, and the stakes in River Heights have escalated significantly.

Simultaneously, Nancy's friends Bess and George discover that Wharton was linked to the nutmeg used in Flora’s haunted house. This vital information connects the dots, revealing a larger scheme at play.

As Nancy pieces the mystery together, she learns that Carson is held captive in a secret passage beneath her home. Realizing that Wharton and Nate are behind the plot to disrupt local developments, she prepares to confront them.

Despite the dangers, Nancy and Helen devise a plan to rescue Carson and Flora. Their determination leads to a confrontation with Wharton and Nate, resulting in their capture and the revelation of their deceptive tactics.

With Wharton and Nate apprehended, calmness returns to River Heights. Carson is freed, and Nancy, along with her friends, reflects on the harrowing journey they've endured together.

The following day, Nancy, George, and Bess welcome Helen into their circle, solidifying their friendship. The experience has bonded them closer as they collectively prepare for their next adventure.

Eager for more adventures, Nancy and her friends strategize their next steps at the historic Lilac Inn. Their shared commitment to uncovering truths and defending justice sets the stage for future mysteries.