14 best teen mysteries

Teen mysteries are a popular subgenre of young adult literature fiction that combines elements of mystery, suspense, and often adventure. These books are typically aimed at teenage readers and revolve around young protagonists who become embroiled in solving mysteries or uncovering secrets. Here's what you should know about teen mysteries:

  1. Protagonists: Teen mysteries typically feature adolescent or teenage protagonists as the central characters. These young characters often find themselves in the midst of mysterious events or crimes.

  2. Themes: Teen mysteries explore a wide range of themes, including murder, theft, espionage, paranormal phenomena, and more. Some may also touch on issues like friendship, family, and identity.

  3. Investigation: The core of teen mysteries involves an investigative plotline.The young protagonists take on the role of amateur detectives, attempting to solve the mystery or crime through clues, deduction, and problem-solving.

  4. Suspense and Tension: Like traditional mysteries, teen mysteries build suspense and tension to keep readers engaged. Clues are often revealed gradually, and unexpected twists and turns add to the excitement.

  5. Diversity of Settings: Teen mysteries can take place in various settings, from small towns and schools to exotic locations and historical periods. This diversity allows for a wide range of storytelling possibilities.

  6. Character Development: Alongside the mystery-solving aspect, teen mysteries often delve into character development. Readers get to witness the growth and evolution of the young protagonists as they face challenges and make discoveries.

  7. Series and Standalones: Teen mysteries can be standalone novels or part of a series. Series often feature the same teenage detective or group of friends solving multiple mysteries across different books.

  8. Appeal to Teens: These books are crafted to resonate with teenage readers. They often address issues and challenges that teens face in their own lives, making them relatable to their experiences.

  9. Diverse Audience: While teen mysteries are primarily aimed at young adults, they can also be enjoyed by readers of various ages who appreciate engaging mystery plots and young protagonists.

  10. Authors and Popular Series: Several authors are well-known for their contributions to the teen mystery genre. Notable examples include Nancy Drew by Carolyn Keene, The Hardy Boys by Franklin W. Dixon, and more contemporary series like "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins and "Pretty Little Liars" by Sara Shepard.

In summary, teen mysteries are a captivating subgenre of young adult literature that captivates young readers with intriguing mysteries, suspenseful storytelling, and relatable teenage protagonists. These books provide an entertaining and engaging reading experience while often exploring important themes and character development. Whether you're a teenager yourself or simply enjoy a good mystery, teen mysteries offer a wide range of options to satisfy your reading cravings.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best teen mysteries on the market
  

One of Us Is Lying

Delacorte Press

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price

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ONE OF US IS LYING

Six Months Later

Sourcebooks Fire

Based on 281 reviews Check latest price

Killing Mr. Griffin

Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Based on 348 reviews Check latest price

Girl in the Blue Coat

Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Shadow Jumper: A mystery adventure book for children and teens aged 10-14

Scribblepad Press

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

The Inheritance Games

Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Asylum 3-Book Box Set: Asylum, Sanctum, Catacomb

Harpercollins

Based on 833 reviews Check latest price

Brainwashed: Crime Travelers Spy School Mystery & International Adventure Series Book 1

Flying Solo Press, LLC

Based on 609 reviews Check latest price

Escape Room (Underlined Paperbacks)

Underlined

Based on 157 reviews Check latest price

The Girl in the Picture

Delacorte Press

Based on 334 reviews Check latest price

I Have a Bad Feeling About This

Sourcebooks Fire

Based on 306 reviews Check latest price

A Good Girl's Guide to Murder

Ember

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Tiny Pretty Things

Based on 307 reviews Check latest price

The Girl Who Dared to Think (1)

Nightlight Press

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

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