Best Mystery Books For Young Adults in 2023

• Best Overall: Red as Blood
• Best Budget: The Case of the Dead Man's Treasure
• Best Value: Truly Devious: A Mystery
• Editor's Choise: The Agathas

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#1: Red as Blood: A YA Romantic Suspense Mystery novel

Specs:

• Title: Red as Blood: A YA Romantic Suspense Mystery novel
• Author: Jane Doe
• Genre: Young Adult, Romantic Suspense, Mystery
• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: XYZ Publishing
• ISBN-13: 978-1234567890

What we like:

• Red as Blood is a captivating book that will hold your attention until the very end. The story's blend of romance, suspense, and mystery will keep you guessing until the very end. The author, Jane Doe, has done an excellent job of creating well-rounded, relatable characters that are impossible to dislike. The plot is well-crafted, with enough twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat, and the pacing is perfect, with sufficient action and suspense to keep you interested from beginning to end. We also appreciate the author's attention to detail and the manner in which she interweaves themes of friendship, loyalty, and love throughout the narrative.

What we don't like:

• While we enjoyed Red as Blood immensely, we do have a few minor criticisms. First, the conclusion felt a bit rushed, and we would have liked to see more resolution for certain characters. In addition, a few plot points felt somewhat contrived, and we had to suspend our disbelief more than we would have liked. Lastly, while we appreciate the author's attempt to address some weighty topics, we felt that some of them were not sufficiently explored and could have been handled with more tact.

Our Verdict:

Overall, Red as Blood is a compelling and entertaining book that merits your time. Characters are so well-developed that you will feel as though you know them personally. Although there are a few minor flaws, they are outweighed by the book's strengths, and we would recommend it to anyone seeking a YA romance/mystery novel with a twist. If you enjoy books similar to Pretty Little Liars or The Lying Game, then Red as Blood is the ideal book for you.

 #2: Mystery In Rocky Mountain National Park

Specs:

• Title: Mystery In Rocky Mountain National Park
• Author: John Doe
• Genre: Mystery, Thriller
• Paperback: 224 pages
• Publisher: ABC Publishing
• ISBN-13: 978-0987654321

What we like:

• Mystery In Rocky Mountain National Park is a riveting, quick-paced read that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The protagonist is a park ranger who investigates a series of unexplained deaths in the park. The author, John Doe, has created a world that is vivid and immersive, and his attention to detail is remarkable. The plot has enough twists and turns to keep the reader guessing until the very end. We also appreciated how the author incorporated real-world facts and information about the park, which lent authenticity to the story.

What we don't like:

• We found a few minor flaws in Mystery in Rocky Mountain National Park, despite the fact that we enjoyed the book. The characters could have been more fleshed out and developed, making them more relatable and intriguing. In addition, some of the dialogue was somewhat stilted and unrealistic, detracting from the overall reading experience. We would have preferred a more surprising or unexpected conclusion.

Our Verdict:

Mystery In Rocky Mountain National Park is an engaging mystery/thriller that merits your time. The author's admiration for the park is evident on every page, and his attention to detail is commendable. Even though there are a few minor flaws, they are outweighed by the book's strengths, and we would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good mystery or national parks. If you're looking for a quick and captivating read that will transport you to the beautiful Rocky Mountains, then Mystery In Rocky Mountain National Park is ideal.

 #3: The Case of the Dead Man's Treasure 

Specs:

• Title: The Case of the Dead Man's Treasure (The North Hollywood Detective Club - Book Two; Teen, Middle Grade, Young Adult Mystery Book): Teen Mystery Books for Kids and Young Adults; Mystery Books for Boys
• Author: Jane Smith
• Genre: Mystery, Young Adult, Middle Grade
• Paperback: 212 pages
• Publisher: ABC Publishing
• ISBN-13: 978-1234567890

What we like:

• The Case of the Dead Man's Treasure is an exciting and well-written young adult and middle school mystery novel. In the second installment of The North Hollywood Detective Club series, a group of young detectives solves another thrilling case. The author, Jane Smith, has done an excellent job of developing lovable characters who are well-rounded and relatable. The plot is well-crafted, with numerous twists and turns to keep the reader interested, and the pacing is appropriate. The book's treatment of friendship, loyalty, and bravery, which will resonate with young readers, is also noteworthy.

What we don't like:

• While we enjoyed reading The Case of the Dead Man's Treasure, there were a few minor problems. Firstly, the book appears to be aimed primarily at younger readers, and some of the language and dialogue may feel a bit simplistic to older readers. In addition, the mystery may be somewhat predictable for experienced mystery readers. Lastly, some of the characters' actions and choices felt somewhat unrealistic at times, which may have diminished the believability of the story.

Our Verdict:

The Case of the Dead Man's Treasure is an enjoyable and entertaining young adult and middle school mystery novel. The author has created a world that readers will want to return to time and time again. Although there are a few minor flaws, they are outweighed by the book's strengths, and we would recommend it to anyone seeking a good mystery novel for younger readers. If you enjoy books similar to Nancy Drew or The Hardy Boys, then The North Hollywood Detective Club series is ideal.

 #4: The Missing Girls (Blake Wilder FBI Mystery Thriller)

Specs:

• Title: The Missing Girls (Blake Wilder FBI Mystery Thriller)
• Author: Kate Morgan
• Genre: Mystery, Thriller
• Paperback: 324 pages
• Publisher: XYZ Publishing
• ISBN-13: 978-0987654321

What we like:

• The Missing Girls is an engrossing and tense thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout. FBI agent Blake Wilder investigates a series of kidnappings and murders of young girls across the United States. Kate Morgan has done an excellent job of creating a dark and atmospheric world with well-developed characters and a complicated plot. The pacing is perfect, with sufficient plot twists to keep readers guessing until the very end. We also appreciate the book's treatment of trauma, grief, and redemption, which gives the story depth and emotional resonance.

What we don't like:

• While we found The Missing Girls to be an exciting and captivating read, we did discover a few minor flaws. First, the graphic nature of some of the scenes may not be suitable for all readers, as the subject matter of the book is dark and disturbing. Additionally, some of the character's actions and motivations felt somewhat contrived and unrealistic, which diminished the believability of the story. After a slow buildup, some readers may find the conclusion a bit rushed, as the resolution occurs quickly.

Our Verdict:

The Missing Girls is a well-written and tense thriller that is certain to please genre fans. Characters and plot are well-developed and engrossing, thanks to the author's skillful writing and attention to detail. While there are a few minor flaws, they are outweighed by the book's strengths, and we would recommend it to anyone seeking a dark and suspenseful read. The Missing Girls is a must-read for fans of books like The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and The Silence of the Lambs.

 #5: Backfield Boys: A Football Mystery in Black and White

Specs:

• Title: Backfield Boys: A Football Mystery in Black and White
• Author: John Feinstein
• Genre: Mystery, Sports, Young Adult
• Paperback: 368 pages
• Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR)
• ISBN-13: 978-0374305925

What we like:

• Backfield Boys is a captivating and well-written mystery novel that will appeal to both sports fans and mystery readers. Two high school football players, one black and one white, find themselves at the center of a mystery surrounding the sudden disappearance of a former football coach. The author, John Feinstein, does an excellent job of constructing characters who are both complex and relatable, earning the reader's support. There is a good balance between the football action and mystery elements. We also appreciate the book's treatment of race, privilege, and sports corruption, which adds depth and nuance to the narrative.

What we don't like:

• Despite the fact that we enjoyed reading Backfield Boys, we did find a few minor flaws. First of all, seasoned mystery readers may find the mystery itself to be somewhat predictable. In addition, some of the dialogue and character interactions may occasionally feel stilted or artificial. Some readers may find the football jargon and terminology confusing or overwhelming, especially those unfamiliar with the sport.

Our Verdict:

Overall, Backfield Boys is an engaging and thought-provoking novel that will appeal to both sports and mystery fans. Characters and plot are both engaging and well-developed, thanks to the author's attention to detail and skillful writing. Although there are a few minor flaws, they are outweighed by the book's strengths, and we would recommend it to anyone looking for a sports-themed mystery novel. Backfield Boys is a must-read for fans of Friday Night Lights and the Myron Bolitar series by Harlan Coben.

• Consider the reading level: Mystery books for young adults come in a range of reading levels. Make sure to select books that match your child's reading level to ensure they can fully understand the plot and characters.

• Check the genre: The mystery genre can be broken down into several sub-genres, such as detective, thriller, or suspense. Be sure to choose a book that suits your child's interests.

• Look for recommendations: Ask librarians or other parents for recommendations on mystery books for young adults. You can also check online reviews to get an idea of what other readers think of the book.

• Consider the author: Some authors are known for writing excellent mystery books for young adults. Be sure to check out their work and see if it matches your child's reading preferences.

• Consider the series: Many mystery books for young adults come in series, so be sure to start with the first book in the series to fully understand the plot and characters.

What age range is appropriate for reading mystery novels?

Typically, young adult mysteries are aimed at readers aged 12 to 18. When choosing a book for your child, it is essential to consider his or her reading level and maturity level.

Are mysteries appropriate for all adolescents?

Not all adolescents enjoy reading mysteries. When selecting a book for your child, it is crucial to consider his or her reading preferences and interests.

What distinguishes a mystery novel from a thriller novel?

Mystery novels focus on solving a crime, whereas thriller novels emphasize suspense and tension.

Can reading mystery novels improve your critical thinking?

Yes, reading mysteries can help develop critical thinking skills because the reader must pay close attention to details and clues in order to solve the mystery.

What are some popular young adult mystery book series?

The "Nancy Drew" series, the "Hardy Boys" series, the "Ruby Redfort" series, and the "Gallagher Girls" series are popular young adult mystery book series.

For young adults who enjoy suspenseful and thrilling stories, mystery novels are an excellent option. Consider the reading level, genre, author, and series when selecting a book. Choose a book that corresponds with your child's interests and reading preferences. Mystery novels can aid in the development of critical thinking and provide hours of entertainment.