If you’re a fan of thrilling plot twists, intricate puzzles, and suspenseful storytelling, then young adult (YA) mystery novels are right up your alley. These captivating reads are perfect for teens and adults alike, pulling you into suspenseful worlds with every page turn. Whether you enjoy a chilling whodunit, a psychological thriller, or a gripping adventure, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 YA mystery novels that you simply cannot put down. Each selection not only showcases intriguing characters and compelling narratives but also offers unique perspectives on friendship, trust, and the journey of self-discovery. So, cozy up with your favorite blanket and get ready to unravel some of the best mysteries in the YA genre!
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10. Red as Blood: A YA Romantic Suspense Mystery Novel (Everbeach)
$14.99 • 4.5 Stars • 54 Reviews
Dive into the suspenseful world of ‘Red as Blood: A YA Romantic Suspense Mystery Novel (Everbeach),’ where fairy tales meet a dark, gripping mystery in a contemporary setting. As a winner of the 2024 Independent Press Award for Young Adult Fiction, this novel captures the essence of thriller and romance, making it an essential read for fans of suspenseful narratives. The storyline follows Penny Zale, who mysteriously disappears from a psychiatric hospital, leaving only a chopped-off braid and cryptic letters behind. Her friends—Raven, Aarya, Dawn, and Elle—must uncover the sinister secrets surrounding her disappearance, leading them to confront their own personal demons, including Raven’s struggles with anxiety and addiction. With a tantalizing blend of scandal, betrayal, and forbidden attraction, especially in Raven’s dangerous pull towards Logan Steele, the enigmatic heir, readers will find themselves unable to put the book down. With a stellar 4.5-star rating from 54 reviews, this novel promises unexpected twists and explores intricate themes of friendship and loyalty. Ideal for young adults or anyone who enjoys a mathematically complex narrative infused with fairy tale elements, ‘Red as Blood’ brilliantly combines elements reminiscent of ‘Inheritance Games’ and ‘Pretty Little Liars.’ Pros include a rich, gripping narrative filled with suspense and romantic tension, while cons may involve the potentially triggering themes of mental health. Overall, this book is best suited for lovers of YA fiction who appreciate layered storytelling and character development.
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9. The Knowledge Seeker: (YA Dystopian Novel)
$13.07 • 4.6 Stars • 291 Reviews
Dive into the gripping world of The Knowledge Seeker, a thrilling YA dystopian novel by acclaimed author Rae Knightly that has captured hearts and minds, earning accolades such as the 2022 Readers’ Favorite Silver Medal and being a finalist in the 2021 Wishing Shelf Book Awards. Set in a future where climate change has led to the collapse of civilization, the story follows a brave sixteen-year-old who bears the immense burden of safeguarding the last remnants of human knowledge stored in a memory device around her neck. Perfect for fans of The Hunger Games and The Maze Runner, this book tackles crucial themes of knowledge, power, and the human spirit’s resilience against tyranny as a sinister Wraith Lord threatens to seize control of the precious information. With a high star rating of 4.6 from nearly 300 reviews, readers praise its clever plotting and unexpected ending, which serves as a startling wake-up call about the importance of knowledge in today’s age of misinformation. At just $13.07, this novel is an engaging read for ages 12 to 16, making it an ideal choice for young adults looking for a combination of action, adventure, and a deep moral message. The story’s strengths are its compelling narrative and thought-provoking premise, while readers have noted that some character developments may feel rushed in the fast-paced plot. Overall, The Knowledge Seeker is best suited for young readers who are passionate about dystopian tales and interested in exploring critical societal themes.
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8. From Brisbane to Tokyo while in Orlando, Florida: A Heartfelt YA Novel with Romance, Friendship and Mystery
$0.00 • Stars • Reviews
Dive into the enthralling world of ‘From Brisbane to Tokyo while in Orlando, Florida,’ a captivating YA mystery novel that promises to keep readers on the edge of their seats. This heartfelt debut weaves a rich tapestry of romance, friendship, and self-discovery, making it a must-read for fans of Jenny Han, John Green, and Kasie West. The story follows junior student Hayden Mallard as he navigates a fresh start in a new school amidst personal challenges, from bullying to isolation. The plot thickens when he stumbles upon a mysterious social media account named Tokyo, which sparks an unexpected pen pal relationship, unraveling layers of intrigue while pushing him out of his comfort zone. With relatable themes of loneliness, family drama, and the tumultuous journey of adolescence, this novel resonates deeply with teen readers, especially those traversing the labyrinth of high school life. While it is celebrated for its poignant storytelling and character growth, potential readers should note that its emotional depth may not suit everyone looking for a light read. Ultimately, this gripping tale is ideal for young adults seeking a roller-coaster of emotions and a connection to the nostalgic ups and downs of youth.
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7. The Raven Murders: A Murder Mystery Game | Can You Solve a Murder Mystery?
$2.99 • 4.3 Stars • 68 Reviews
Dive into the thrilling world of The Raven Murders: A Murder Mystery Game, where you don the detective’s hat and unravel a chilling mystery. With a commendable star rating of 4.3 from 68 reviews, this interactive novel entices readers with its gripping plot and immersive gameplay. Priced at just $2.99, it stands out as an affordable yet captivating addition to your bookshelf. Players must navigate through a web of clues and characters, each revealing pivotal pieces of the puzzle. The game’s unique combination of engaging narrative and deductive reasoning challenges readers to think critically while being entertained. Ideal for mystery lovers and fans of interactive storytelling, this game is perfect for those looking for a unique literary experience that encourages participation. While some users may find the puzzle-solving aspect challenging, the satisfaction of piecing together the mystery keeps players immersed until the very end. Whether you’re a seasoned detective or a casual reader seeking an exciting mystery, The Raven Murders promises an unforgettable adventure.
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6. I Have A Bad Feeling About This
$6.99 • 4.5 Stars • 1330 Reviews
Dive deep into the thrilling world of young adult mysteries with ‘I Have A Bad Feeling About This.’ This gripping novel follows sixteen-year-old Henry, an unathletic teen whose survival camp experience quickly spirals into a nightmare when armed killers intrude. With a stellar 4.5-star rating and over 1,330 reviews, this book promises to keep readers on the edge of their seats. One standout quality is its fast-paced narrative that seamlessly blends suspense with dark humor, appealing to both reluctant readers and avid page-turners. The relatable protagonist navigates fear, camaraderie, and the instinct to survive, making it perfect for fans of gripping thrillers and character-driven stories. Although some readers have noted moments of predictability, the engaging writing style and nail-biting plot twists more than compensate. Best suited for teens and young adults with a penchant for suspense and adventure, this novel is a must-have for anyone looking to escape into a heart-pounding mystery that’s hard to put down.
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5. A Dreadful Splendor: A Novel
$34.95 • 4.3 Stars • 730 Reviews
Dive into the chilling world of ‘A Dreadful Splendor: A Novel,’ an international bestseller that’s won the esteemed Mary Higgins Clark Award. This gothic mystery is perfect for fans of suspenseful romances with a dash of the supernatural. Set in Victorian London, the story follows Genevieve Timmons, a con artist masquerading as a spiritualist, who finds herself in a precarious situation when she’s tasked with performing a séance to bring peace to the grieving Mr. Pemberton after the tragic death of his fiancée. As she navigates the dark secrets of the Somerset Park estate, Genevieve discovers that the lines between deception and the supernatural may be blurred, leading to unexpected alliances and spine-tingling twists. Readers will appreciate its clever plot, engaging characters, and the way the chilling atmosphere keeps them on the edge of their seats. With a commendable star rating of 4.3 from over 730 reviews, this novel presents a truly thrilling experience with notable pros such as its witty writing, well-developed characters, and a captivating blend of mystery and romance, although some readers may find the pacing starts off slow. Perfect for mystery lovers, gothic fiction enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a romantic twist to their thrillers, ‘A Dreadful Splendor’ is a must-read that will undoubtedly lure you into its gothic embrace.
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4. The Girl Who Broke the World: Book One – Publishers Weekly Editor’s Pick (Rim Walker Trilogy)
$7.77 • 4.5 Stars • 106 Reviews
Dive into the breathtaking realm of The Girl Who Broke the World, the captivating first installment of the Rim Walker Trilogy that has been handpicked as a Publishers Weekly Editor’s Pick. Set in a post-apocalyptic future, this critically acclaimed YA fantasy novel introduces readers to an enthralling world reborn through magic, where 18-year-old heroine Zemira Creedence holds the power to either save or destroy everything she encounters. With vibrant world-building, multidimensional characters, and an intricate narrative filled with unexpected twists, this book is perfect for young adult and new adult readers alike, particularly those aged 18 to 30. Praise from critics highlights its lyrical prose and profound storytelling, perfect for fans of mystical adventures who are searching for a compelling escape from reality. Standout qualities of this title include its richly detailed settings and complex relationships among characters. However, some readers may desire a quicker-paced plot, as the immersive world-building may take time to fully unfold. Overall, The Girl Who Broke the World is an exciting choice for fans of YA fantasy who appreciate powerful narratives that explore themes of redemption and the human condition amidst a backdrop of magical possibilities.
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3. Kill Joy: A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder Novella
$14.36 • 4.1 Stars • 4475 Reviews
Diving into the heart of a captivating mystery, ‘Kill Joy: A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder Novella’ is the prequel to the sensational, multimillion bestselling ‘A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder’ series, now thrillingly adapted on Netflix. Perfect for young adult readers who revel in tales filled with suspense and clever twists, this novella invites you to join Pip at the murder mystery party of the year, where she maneuvers through six suspects and a ticking clock of three hours to solve a fictional murder case. Written by #1 New York Times bestselling author Holly Jackson, the book combines humor and intensity, making it an exemplary choice for fans of detective fiction. Key features include the richly detailed 1920s setting and engaging character dynamics that transport readers into a world of intrigue right alongside Pip. Users have noted that the novella’s interactive format encourages them to try piecing clues together, creating an immersive reading experience that keeps you guessing until the very end. With a solid star rating of 4.1 derived from over 4,475 reviews, ‘Kill Joy’ has garnered positive feedback for its brisk pacing and witty dialogue. However, some readers have mentioned that it may feel short for those craving more depth in character backstories, and its unique premise could be less appealing to readers unfamiliar with the series. Overall, this novella is best suited for teenagers and young adults with a thirst for thrilling mysteries, as well as dedicated fans of the series looking for a fun, quick read.
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2. A Family of Killers
$5.63 • 3.9 Stars • 22 Reviews
If you’re a fan of young adult mystery novels that keep you on the edge of your seat, look no further than ‘A Family of Killers.’ With a star rating of 3.9 based on 22 reviews, this thrilling tale combines gripping suspense with relatable characters that resonate with teens and adult readers alike. Priced at just $5.63, it’s an affordable addition to any bookshelf. This story dives into the complexities of family bonds under the strain of dark secrets, making it perfect for readers who appreciate nuanced narratives that explore morality. While some readers note pacing issues in the middle chapters, the compelling plot twists and emotional depth more than make up for it. Ideal for those who enjoy psychological thrillers, ‘A Family of Killers’ is a must-read for anyone seeking a riveting, thought-provoking experience.
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1. Whispers at Willowmere Farm: Millie Wright Mystery #1 (Millie Wright Mysteries)
$12.99 • 4.5 Stars • 32 Reviews
Whispers at Willowmere Farm: Millie Wright Mystery #1 is a captivating young adult mystery novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Set against the charming backdrop of Lexington, Kentucky, this book follows Millie Wright, who begins her dream internship at the historic Willowmere Farm. However, her idyllic start quickly turns into a thrilling investigation as a series of bizarre occurrences unfold—beginning with the unexpected tragedy of the farm owner’s husband being trampled by a herd of colts. Millie’s determination leads her to uncover secret passageways, threatening messages, and the uneasy specter of an alleged haunting. With its engaging narrative and relatable protagonist, this novel is perfectly suited for young adult readers who love a blend of mystery and adventure. Key features include an immersive setting, well-developed characters, and a plot that unfolds with perfect pacing, keeping readers guessing until the end. Pros of the book include its engaging writing style and well-crafted mystery elements, while some may find the pacing slow at certain points. At an affordable price of $12.99 and a stellar 4.5-star rating from 32 reviews, ‘Whispers at Willowmere Farm’ is an essential pick for mystery lovers and fans of young adult fiction alike.
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