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Top rated teen and young adult mysteries and detective stories books

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Top rated teen and young adult mysteries and detective stories books

AI-generated summary · updated July 28, 2026 · verify details before purchase.

  1. One of Us Is Lying
    Best overall Delacorte Press

    One of Us Is Lying

    4.6/5 $7.07

    A gripping mystery where five students walk into detention, only four walk out alive. Perfect for fans of fast-paced whodunits.

    • Engaging plot twists
    • Strong character development
    • High re-read value
    • Predictable for some readers
    View on Amazon manufacturer site
  2. The Inheritance Games
    Best puzzle mystery LITTLE, BROWN

    The Inheritance Games

    4.5/5 $5.92

    A wealthy teen inherits a billion-dollar fortune and must solve puzzles to uncover family secrets. Ideal for puzzle lovers.

    • Intricate puzzles
    • Fast-paced narrative
    • Unique premise
    • Complex plot may confuse some
    View on Amazon manufacturer site
  3. A Good Girl's Guide to Murder
    Best page-turner Ember

    A Good Girl's Guide to Murder

    4.7/5 $6.59

    A student investigates a closed murder case for a school project and uncovers dark truths. Highly addictive.

    • Thrilling investigation
    • Relatable protagonist
    • Satisfying conclusion
    • Some clichés
    View on Amazon manufacturer site
  4. The Westing Game
    Best classic mystery Penguin

    The Westing Game

    4.6/5 $6.98

    An eccentric millionaire's will sets off a puzzle among heirs. A timeless mystery with clever clues.

    • Classic puzzle
    • Great for all ages
    • Twist ending
    • Dated language
    View on Amazon manufacturer site
  5. We Were Liars
    Best emotional twist Ember

    We Were Liars

    4.3/5 $6.39

    A privileged teen struggles with memory loss after a summer tragedy. Known for its shocking finale.

    • Emotional depth
    • Unforgettable twist
    • Beautiful prose
    • Slow beginning
    View on Amazon manufacturer site
  6. Truly Devious
    Best series starter HarperCollins

    Truly Devious

    4.2/5 $8.97

    A true-crime enthusiast enrolls at a school with a dark history of kidnapping and murder. Gripping dual timelines.

    • Dual timeline
    • Atmospheric setting
    • Strong mystery
    • Cliffhanger ending
    View on Amazon manufacturer site
  7. The Mystery of Black Hollow Lane
    Best middle-grade crossover Sourcebooks, Inc.

    The Mystery of Black Hollow Lane

    4.4/5 $7.57

    Twelve-year-old Emmy discovers a secret society at her boarding school. Perfect for younger teens.

    • Accessible writing
    • Engaging secrets
    • Fast read
    • Simplistic for older teens
    View on Amazon manufacturer site
  8. I Hunt Killers
    Best thriller LITTLE, BROWN

    I Hunt Killers

    4.2/5 $8.24

    The son of a serial killer uses his father's teachings to catch a new murderer. Dark and suspenseful.

    • Unique perspective
    • High stakes
    • Well-paced
    • Graphic content
    View on Amazon manufacturer site

Buying advice

Consider the reader's age and tolerance for mature content. Some books contain violence or sensitive themes. For younger teens, start with 'The Westing Game' or 'The Mystery of Black Hollow Lane'. Older teens may enjoy darker mysteries like 'I Hunt Killers' or emotionally complex books like 'We Were Liars'. Check review scores and series continuity before purchasing.

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