
'Til Death
by Busayo Matuluko
'Til Death is a high-octane Young Adult mystery thriller that transports readers to the vibrant and glamorous city of Lagos, Nigeria. True-crime enthusiast Lara Oyinlola is thrilled to attend her cousin Dérin’s star-studded wedding, expecting a holiday filled with glitzy parties and fashion. However, the celebration takes a dark turn when anonymous threats emerge, demanding the wedding be canceled. Lara decides to put her sleuthing skills to the test, but she soon discovers that the family’s polished exterior hides a web of dangerous secrets and malicious intent.
This addictive debut is perfect for fans of Holly Jackson and Karen M. McManus who enjoy fast-paced "whodunit" mysteries with high stakes. Author Busayo Matuluko brilliantly weaves Nigerian culture and family dynamics into a suspenseful narrative filled with gossip, drama, and near-death encounters. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in diverse voices, amateur detectives, and stories where every character has something to hide. The blend of humor and tension makes it a compulsive read that is hard to put down.
Highlights:
- A gripping amateur detective mystery set in the heart of Lagos, Nigeria.
- Rich exploration of Nigerian family traditions, culture, and social dynamics.
- Perfect for fans of A Good Girl's Guide to Murder and One of Us Is Lying.
- Features a relatable, true-crime-obsessed protagonist navigating complex family secrets.
- A thrilling mix of glamour, gossip, and high-stakes suspense.

A Big Day for Baseball
by Mary Pope Osborne
Step onto the field and back in time with Jack and Annie in A Big Day for Baseball, a thrilling installment in the #1 bestselling Magic Tree House series. When Morgan the librarian gives the siblings magical baseball caps, they are whisked away to Brooklyn, New York, in 1947. Expecting to play in a professional game, they are surprised to find themselves serving as batboys instead. As they navigate the dugout, they realize they are witnessing a monumental moment in sports history: the debut of the legendary Jackie Robinson.
This book is perfect for children who love sports, time-travel adventures, and learning about real-life heroes. It seamlessly blends historical facts with a touch of magic, making it an ideal choice for readers interested in American history and the civil rights movement. Parents and teachers will appreciate how Mary Pope Osborne introduces complex topics like racial integration and perseverance in a way that is accessible and engaging for young minds. It is a great choice for fans of the series and new readers alike who enjoy a mix of mystery and action.
Highlights:
- Features the inspiring story of baseball legend Jackie Robinson.
- Combines magical elements with accurate historical settings.
- Encourages themes of bravery, fairness, and sportsmanship.
- Part of a beloved series that builds reading confidence in early learners.

A Burning in the Bones
by Scott Reintgen
A Burning in the Bones is the pulse-pounding conclusion to Scott Reintgen’s bestselling Waxways series. In this final installment, Ren and Theo find themselves at the center of a political storm as they attempt to reform the corrupt system of Kathor. However, their plans are derailed by a mysterious and deadly plague that threatens to consume the city. With corpses appearing in strategic locations and magic itself under threat, the stakes have never been higher for the survivors of House Brood.
This epic finale is perfect for children and teens who love high-stakes fantasy and intricate world-building. Ideal for readers interested in political maneuvering, dark mysteries, and stories where the cost of survival is high. Parents will find this a great choice for fans of Leigh Bardugo or Sabaa Tahir, offering a sophisticated narrative that explores themes of power, corruption, and the strength of found family. It is an edge-of-your-seat adventure that rewards long-time followers of the series with a satisfying and intense resolution.
Highlights:
- The thrilling conclusion to the acclaimed Waxways trilogy.
- A complex blend of political intrigue and dark magical mystery.
- High-stakes action featuring a race against a city-wide plague.
- Deep exploration of loyalty, sacrifice, and the weight of leadership.

A Door in the Dark
by Scott Reintgen
A Door in the Dark is a gripping dark academia fantasy thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. When a portal spell goes horribly wrong, Ren Monroe and five other teenage wizards find themselves stranded in a brutal wilderness far from the safety of Balmerick University. With limited magic and one of their classmates already dead, the group must rely on Ren’s lifelong survival skills to navigate the treacherous woods. However, the physical dangers are only the beginning, as deep-seated secrets and personal rivalries threaten to tear the group apart from within.
This pulse-pounding adventure is perfect for readers who love Naomi Novik’s The Scholomance series or Leigh Bardugo’s Ninth House. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in high-stakes survival stories, complex magic systems, and the atmospheric 'dark academia' aesthetic. Parents looking for a mature, thought-provoking fantasy for their teens will find this a compelling pick that explores themes of class, trust, and the cost of ambition. It is a great choice for those who love a mix of mystery and magic in a survivalist setting.
Highlights:
- A high-stakes dark academia survival thriller with a unique magic system.
- Explores complex social dynamics between elite and scholarship students.
- Perfect for readers who enjoy intense, atmospheric fantasy with a touch of horror.
- Features a strong, resourceful female protagonist driven by grit and determination.

A Map of Days
by Ransom Riggs
A Map of Days marks a thrilling new chapter in the beloved Miss Peregrine’s Peculiar Children series. After defeating the monstrous threats of the Old World, Jacob Portman returns to Florida, but he isn't alone. Accompanied by Miss Peregrine and his peculiar friends, Jacob attempts to navigate a "normal" life. However, the discovery of a secret bunker belonging to his grandfather, Abe, reveals a hidden legacy of dangerous missions and untold secrets. Jacob and his friends are soon thrust into the wild, lawless landscape of American peculiardom, where new wonders and terrifying dangers await.
This installment is perfect for children and teens who love immersive world-building and dark, atmospheric storytelling. Ideal for readers interested in urban fantasy and historical mysteries, Ransom Riggs continues to blend narrative with haunting vintage photographs, now including full-color images. It is a great choice for fans of the previous trilogy who are eager to see how the peculiar world expands into the United States, offering a more mature exploration of identity and responsibility.
Highlights:
- An exciting expansion of the peculiar world into modern-day America.
- Deepens the mystery of Jacob’s family history and his grandfather’s double life.
- Features the series' signature haunting vintage photography and new color images.
- Explores complex themes of legacy, independence, and finding one's place in the world.

A Mastery of Monsters
by Liselle Sambury
A Mastery of Monsters is a gripping dark academia fantasy that plunges readers into a world where monsters are real and secret societies hold the keys to survival. When August’s brother vanishes from his college campus, she refuses to believe he simply walked away. Her search leads her to a terrifying encounter with a supernatural creature and an unlikely alliance with Virgil Hawthorne, a bookish boy hiding a monstrous secret. To find her brother, August must enter a deadly competition to join a mysterious society, navigating a landscape of blood, betrayal, and ancient magic.
This novel is perfect for children who love Legendborn and Ninth House and crave high-stakes tension and complex world-building. Ideal for readers interested in dark academia, urban fantasy, and stories about the lengths one will go to protect their family. With its atmospheric setting and bold narrative, it is a great choice for older teens looking for a mature, immersive fantasy series that explores the thin line between humanity and monstrosity.
Highlights:
- A high-stakes deadly competition plot set within a secret society.
- Compelling dark academia atmosphere with a focus on mystery and supernatural lore.
- A strong, determined female protagonist driven by family loyalty and resilience.
- Exploration of complex themes like identity, loss, and the nature of monsters.

A Stage Over Ruthless Stars
by J.J. Clapton
Aznan is a brilliant inventor with a big dream and a difficult reality. Living on a space station with a chronic illness that makes gravity his greatest enemy, he has dropped out of school to focus on the one thing that could change his life: the system's biggest tech competition. Set against the vibrant and dizzying backdrop of a space station circus, Aznan must showcase his homemade technology to titans of industry. But to win, he must reconnect with Kairo, his ex-best friend turned aerialist, whom he hasn't spoken to in three years.
The stakes turn deadly when competitors start turning up dead. What was supposed to be a showcase of innovation quickly becomes a race for survival as Aznan and Kairo realize a killer is stalking the Grand Showcase. This gripping science fiction mystery is perfect for readers who love high-stakes competitions, complex character dynamics, and stories featuring disability representation. It is an ideal choice for fans of futuristic thrillers that blend technical ingenuity with deep emotional resonance.
Highlights:
- Unique space station circus setting with high-tech stakes
- Strong representation of a protagonist living with chronic illness
- Compelling LGBTQ+ themes and complex relationship dynamics
- Fast-paced murder mystery with a rising body count
- Themes of perseverance and reclaiming one's future

A Study in Drowning
by Ava Reid
A Study in Drowning is a hauntingly atmospheric dark academic fantasy that transports readers to the crumbling, salt-swept Hiraeth Manor. Effy Sayre, a young architecture student, has spent her life finding solace in the pages of her favorite epic, Angharad. When she wins a contest to redesign the late author's estate, she believes it is her destiny. However, she soon finds herself clashing with Preston Héloury, a skeptical literature scholar who is determined to prove the author was a fraud. As the two rivals navigate the decaying manor, they uncover secrets that blur the line between reality and folklore.
This Gothic mystery is perfect for children and teens who love The Atlas Six or House of Salt and Sorrows. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in lyrical prose, complex female protagonists, and the 'rivals-to-lovers' trope. Parents will appreciate the book's exploration of truth, legacy, and the power of stories to shape our world. With its dreamlike atmosphere and high-stakes tension, it is a great choice for older teens who enjoy immersive, magical realism and historical settings.
Highlights:
- A lush, Gothic atmosphere set in a decaying seaside manor.
- A compelling 'rivals-to-lovers' romance between two determined scholars.
- Deep exploration of folklore, mythology, and the reliability of history.
- Perfect for fans of dark academia and lyrical fantasy.

All Better Now
by Neal Shusterman
In All Better Now, acclaimed author Neal Shusterman presents a chillingly relevant dystopian world where a mysterious virus doesn't cause illness, but instead brings about a state of "utter contentment." As stress, greed, and depression vanish from the population, the world seems to finally find peace. However, those in power quickly realize that a happy, satisfied public is bad for a consumerist economy driven by insecurity and anger. Soon, a desperate campaign begins to "cure" people of their happiness and return them to a state of productive discontent.
This gripping novel follows three teenagers from vastly different walks of life who find themselves at the center of a high-stakes conspiracy. As they navigate a landscape of media manipulation and government agendas, they must decide what the truth is worth in a world that prefers a comfortable lie. This book is perfect for readers who love thought-provoking science fiction like Scythe or The Giver, and it is an ideal choice for teens interested in social commentary and political thrillers.
Highlights:
- A unique "reverse-dystopia" premise that challenges our understanding of happiness and productivity.
- Complex social commentary on media influence, consumerism, and the pharmaceutical industry.
- Fast-paced action driven by three distinct and compelling teenage perspectives.
- A deep exploration of ethics and the price of societal stability in the modern age.

All We Lost Was Everything
by Sloan Harlow
All We Lost Was Everything is a gripping, dark romantic thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. After eighteen-year-old River Santos loses her father and her home in a devastating fire, her life is turned upside down. When an anonymous donor leaves two million dollars in her GoFundMe, River is thrust into a world of suspicion and wealth she never asked for. Working at a local diner to maintain some sense of normalcy, she finds herself drawn to her standoffish coworker, Logan Evans, despite his initial hostility.
As River digs deeper into her family's past and the source of the mysterious donation, she discovers that those she trusted most—including her late father and her absent mother—were keeping dangerous secrets. This novel is perfect for fans of Binding 13 and readers who love high-stakes mysteries blended with intense romance. It is an ideal choice for young adults looking for a story about resilience, betrayal, and the search for truth in the wake of tragedy.
Highlights:
- A "worst sort of lottery" premise involving a mysterious two-million-dollar donation.
- Compelling romantic tension between River and the secretive, standoffish Logan.
- A dark, atmospheric mystery filled with shocking family revelations and twists.
- Explores deep emotional themes of grief, loss, and rebuilding one's identity.

Allegedly
by Tiffany D. Jackson
Mary Addison killed a baby. Allegedly. After spending years in a group home for a crime she may or may not have committed, Mary is now a teenager facing an impossible future. When she discovers she is pregnant, the stakes become higher than ever. To keep her baby and find a path to a real life, she must confront the secrets of her past and prove that the truth is far more complicated than the headlines suggested. This is a haunting, gritty, and deeply emotional psychological thriller that explores the flaws in the justice system and the weight of a labeled past.
Perfect for readers who love dark, thought-provoking mysteries and unreliable narrators, Allegedly is a gripping choice for fans of intense contemporary fiction. It is an ideal pick for those interested in social justice, complex character studies, and stories that challenge your perceptions of right and wrong. Tiffany D. Jackson delivers a powerhouse narrative that will keep readers guessing until the very last page, making it a great choice for book clubs and mature teen readers looking for a story with real-world weight.
Highlights:
- A masterfully crafted unreliable narrator that keeps readers questioning everything.
- A raw and unflinching look at the juvenile justice system and group home life.
- Deeply emotional themes regarding motherhood, trauma, and the search for truth.
- A shocking, high-stakes plot that is impossible to put down.

Amari and the Despicable Wonders
by B.B. Alston
Amari and the Despicable Wonders is the thrilling third installment in the #1 New York Times bestselling Supernatural Investigations series. In this high-stakes adventure, war has finally arrived in the supernatural world. Amari Peters finds herself caught between two powerful enemies: the manipulative Elaine Harlowe and her former partner, Dylan Van Helsing. With the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs under mind control and the League of Magicians seeking a destructive new power, Amari and her loyal friends must strike out on their own to find the legendary Wonders before it is too late.
This book is perfect for children who love Percy Jackson or Nevermoor. It offers a rich, diverse world filled with magical inventions, complex moral dilemmas, and heart-pounding action. Ideal for readers interested in stories about standing up for what is right, even when the cost is high, this novel explores deep themes of sacrifice and the true meaning of heroism. It is a great choice for middle-grade readers who enjoy urban fantasy and stories featuring strong, relatable protagonists of color.
Highlights:
- An epic continuation of the series featuring intense magical battles and high stakes.
- Deep exploration of themes like prejudice, systemic change, and the weight of leadership.
- A diverse cast of characters with strong bonds of friendship and family loyalty.
- Fast-paced plot filled with creative magical gadgets and supernatural creatures.

Amari and the Great Game
by B.B. Alston
Amari Peters is back in the thrilling sequel to the hit series, Amari and the Great Game. After the events of the first book, Amari finds herself in a world where being a magician is still illegal and the supernatural world is more divided than ever. When a mysterious new leader takes over the Bureau and a competition known as the Great Game is announced to decide the fate of all wizards, Amari must decide if she is willing to step up and lead, even if it means risking everything she has worked for.
This book is perfect for children who love Harry Potter or Percy Jackson but are looking for a modern, diverse twist on the magical school trope. Ideal for readers interested in high-stakes competitions, secret societies, and stories about standing up for what is right, B.B. Alston delivers a fast-paced adventure that explores complex themes of prejudice and power. It is a great choice for middle-grade readers who enjoy immersive world-building and relatable heroes who find their strength in their unique identities.
Highlights:
- An action-packed magical competition that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
- Deep exploration of social justice and identity within a fantasy setting.
- A strong, relatable female protagonist navigating complex friendships and responsibilities.
- Expands the rich, imaginative world of the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs.

Amari and the Night Brothers
by B.B. Alston
Amari Peters has always felt like an outsider, but when her brother Quinton goes missing, she discovers a world she never knew existed. After finding a ticking briefcase in his closet, Amari is whisked away to the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, where she must compete for a spot in a summer camp filled with fairies, aliens, and magicians. This action-packed story is perfect for children who love magical schools and secret societies, offering a fresh, modern twist on the classic fantasy quest.
Ideal for readers interested in stories about overcoming prejudice and finding one's inner strength, Amari and the Night Brothers combines high-stakes mystery with a relatable protagonist. Amari’s journey as a magician in a world that fears her magic provides a powerful allegory for real-world issues, making it a great choice for parents looking for diverse middle-grade fiction that balances fun with meaningful themes. Fans of Percy Jackson or Harry Potter will find a new favorite hero in Amari.
Highlights:
- A thrilling blend of modern technology and ancient magic.
- Strong themes of sibling bonds, loyalty, and perseverance.
- A diverse cast of characters and a relatable, determined heroine.
- Fast-paced plot with unexpected twists and a high-stakes competition.

Ark Angel
by Anthony Horowitz
Ark Angel is the pulse-pounding sixth installment in the world-renowned Alex Rider series. After narrowly surviving a sniper's bullet, teenage superspy Alex Rider finds himself in an exclusive hospital, hoping for a quiet recovery. However, trouble follows Alex everywhere. When he thwarts a kidnapping attempt on a fellow patient—the son of a billionaire—he is thrust into a dangerous conspiracy involving "Ark Angel," the world's first luxury hotel in outer space. This high-stakes adventure is perfect for children who love fast-paced action, high-tech gadgets, and stories about young heroes saving the world.
As Alex investigates the mysterious eco-terrorist group Force Three, he discovers a plot that could result in millions of deaths. From the streets of London to the launchpads of French Guiana, readers will be on the edge of their seats as Alex races against time. Ideal for readers interested in espionage and science fiction, this book combines realistic spycraft with futuristic technology. It is a great choice for fans of the Cherub series or anyone who enjoys a cinematic reading experience filled with narrow escapes and global intrigue.
Highlights:
- Features the iconic teen superspy Alex Rider in one of his most dangerous missions yet.
- Explores themes of environmentalism and the ethics of extreme wealth.
- Packed with high-tech gadgets and intense, cinematic action sequences.
- A thrilling blend of mystery, espionage, and science fiction elements.

Artemis Fowl
by Eoin Colfer
Artemis Fowl is a groundbreaking middle-grade novel that flips the traditional hero's journey on its head. Meet twelve-year-old Artemis Fowl, a brilliant criminal mastermind and millionaire who discovers that fairies are real—and they are far from the delicate creatures found in bedtime stories. Armed with high-tech weaponry and ancient magic, the fairy world is a formidable opponent. Artemis kidnaps Captain Holly Short of the LEPrecon Unit to ransom her for gold, sparking a high-stakes battle of wits between a young genius and an underground civilization.
This book is the perfect choice for children who love fast-paced heists, clever protagonists, and a unique blend of magic and technology. Ideal for readers interested in anti-heroes and complex world-building, Eoin Colfer’s masterpiece offers a witty and action-packed adventure that keeps readers guessing until the very end. It is a great choice for fans of Percy Jackson or Alex Rider who are looking for something with a bit more of a 'bad boy' edge and sophisticated humor.
Highlights:
- A unique blend of traditional folklore and cutting-edge science fiction technology.
- An unconventional protagonist who is a brilliant, calculating criminal mastermind.
- Fast-paced action and clever dialogue that appeals to reluctant readers.
- Explores complex themes of environmentalism, greed, and the blurred lines between good and evil.

Beautiful Creatures
by Kami Garcia
Beautiful Creatures is an enchanting Southern Gothic fantasy that transports readers to the small, stifling town of Gatlin, South Carolina. The story follows Ethan Wate, a teenager longing to escape his mundane life, until he meets Lena Duchannes, the mysterious new girl who has been literally haunting his dreams. As they uncover the dark secrets of Lena's family and the supernatural curse that has plagued them for generations, they must face a world of magic, danger, and impossible choices. This book is perfect for children and teens who love atmospheric storytelling and star-crossed romances.
Ideal for readers interested in supernatural mysteries and high-stakes fantasy, Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl craft a rich world where every choice has a price. It is a great choice for fans of the Twilight saga or The Mortal Instruments who are looking for a more grounded, yet equally magical, setting. With its blend of historical lore and modern-day teen drama, it keeps readers hooked until the very last page.
Highlights:
- A captivating Southern Gothic atmosphere filled with mystery and magic.
- A compelling star-crossed lovers plot with high emotional stakes.
- Explores deep themes of identity, destiny, and the power of choice.
- Rich world-building involving Casters and ancient family curses.

Beyond the Bright Sea
by Lauren Wolk
Set in the 1920s on the rugged Elizabeth Islands off the coast of Massachusetts, Beyond the Bright Sea follows twelve-year-old Crow, who was found as an infant in a small boat. Raised by the kind but solitary Osh and their fierce neighbor Miss Maggie, Crow has always felt the sting of being an outsider. When a mysterious fire appears on a nearby island, Crow embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about her origins, leading her into a world of hidden treasures and dangerous secrets.
Lauren Wolk’s lyrical prose makes this a perfect choice for children who love atmospheric historical fiction and character-driven mysteries. Ideal for readers interested in stories about finding where you belong, this book explores the deep bonds of chosen family and the courage it takes to face the unknown. It is a great choice for fans of Wolf Hollow or The Island of the Blue Dolphins who enjoy beautifully written, emotionally resonant tales.
Highlights:
- A compelling mystery set against a vivid coastal backdrop.
- Deep exploration of identity and the true meaning of family.
- A strong, determined female protagonist who drives the story.
- Award-winning historical fiction with lyrical and evocative writing.

Beyond the Grave
by Rick Riordan
Beyond the Grave is the pulse-pounding fourth installment in the global phenomenon The 39 Clues series. Written by master storyteller Rick Riordan, this book follows Amy and Dan Cahill as they travel to Egypt in search of the next clue that will unlock their family's legendary power. This high-stakes adventure is perfect for children who love solving puzzles, uncovering historical secrets, and following a fast-paced race against time. As the siblings navigate ancient tombs and outsmart dangerous rivals, they must also grapple with the mysterious past of their own parents.
Ideal for readers interested in world history and interactive mysteries, this book combines real-world facts with a fictional scavenger hunt that spans the globe. Parents looking for engaging series to keep their middle-grade readers hooked will find this an excellent choice. It encourages critical thinking and curiosity about different cultures while delivering a cinematic reading experience. Whether your child is a fan of Percy Jackson or loves a good detective story, the Cahill siblings' journey offers the perfect blend of suspense and heart.
Highlights:
- Action-packed scavenger hunt across Egypt and ancient landmarks.
- Strong focus on sibling teamwork and overcoming family secrets.
- Includes historical facts about Napoleon and ancient Egyptian mythology.
- Part of a multi-platform experience involving cards and online games.

Beyond the Grave
by Gordon Korman
Beyond the Grave is the fourth pulse-pounding installment in the bestselling The 39 Clues series. In this adventure, siblings Amy and Dan Cahill travel to Egypt, following a trail of ancient secrets left by their grandmother, Grace. As they navigate the bustling streets of Cairo and the silent tombs of the Nile, they must outsmart their ruthless relatives who will stop at nothing to claim the ultimate power of the Cahill family. This book is perfect for children who love fast-paced action, historical puzzles, and high-stakes treasure hunts.
Gordon Korman brings his signature humor and suspense to this globe-trotting mystery. Readers will be captivated by the blend of real history and fictional intrigue, making it ideal for readers interested in archaeology, world travel, and family secrets. As Amy and Dan uncover more about their parents' mysterious past, they learn that the race for the 39 clues is about much more than just winning—it's about finding where they truly belong. It is a great choice for fans of Percy Jackson or The Mysterious Benedict Society.
Highlights:
- An action-packed journey through the historical landmarks of Egypt.
- Complex puzzles and codes that keep young readers engaged and thinking.
- Strong themes of sibling loyalty and overcoming grief.
- A perfect entry point for kids who enjoy interactive storytelling and mystery.

Bitterblue
by Kristin Cashore
Queen Bitterblue is the young ruler of Monsea, a kingdom still reeling from the dark and violent legacy of her father, King Leck. To understand the truth of her people's suffering and the secrets her advisors are keeping, she begins sneaking out of her castle in disguise to walk the city streets at night. This immersive fantasy novel is perfect for readers who love intricate world-building and strong female protagonists who must find their own voice amidst political intrigue and magical mysteries.
Kristin Cashore weaves a complex tale of memory, healing, and romance. As Bitterblue encounters two mysterious thieves, she discovers that the past is far more tangled than she ever imagined. Ideal for fans of epic fantasy series like Throne of Glass or Shadow and Bone, this book offers a deep, emotional journey that explores how a society recovers from trauma. It is a great choice for older teens looking for a high-stakes story that balances action with profound character development.
Highlights:
- A compelling mystery set in the rich, magical world of the Graceling Realm.
- Explores powerful themes of truth, healing, and the weight of leadership.
- Features a relatable and determined young queen as she navigates her first romance.
- Perfect for readers who enjoy dark fantasy with complex political layers.

Bittersweet in the Hollow
by Kate Pearsall
Bittersweet in the Hollow is a hauntingly beautiful Young Adult novel set in the lush, atmospheric landscape of rural Appalachia. The story follows Linden James, one of four sisters born with extraordinary, supernatural gifts. Linden can taste the emotions of those around her—a gift that turned into a curse after a traumatic night in the forest left her with no memory and a broken heart. When another local girl goes missing and is later found murdered, Linden must confront the dark legends of the Moth-Winged Man and the secrets buried deep within her own family to uncover the truth before she becomes the next victim.
This dark fantasy thriller is perfect for readers who love atmospheric settings, complex sisterhood dynamics, and a touch of southern gothic mystery. It is an ideal choice for fans of stories that blend supernatural intrigue with emotional depth. Parents looking for a gripping, high-stakes mystery with strong female leads and a dash of romance will find this a compelling addition to their teen's bookshelf, great for those who enjoy stories about family legacies and small-town secrets.
Highlights:
- A unique "tasting emotions" supernatural ability that adds depth to character interactions.
- Strong focus on the bond between four sisters and their family legacy.
- Atmospheric Appalachian setting that feels like a character itself.
- A gripping murder mystery intertwined with local folklore and urban legends.

Black Friday
by Robert Muchamore
In Black Friday, the stakes have never been higher for Ryan Sharma. As a member of CHERUB, a top-secret organization that uses teenagers as undercover agents, Ryan is tasked with a mission that could determine the fate of thousands. He is about to board a plane to the United States, knowing that the next twenty-four hours are critical to stopping the most devastating terrorist attack in American history. Because he is just a teenager, he has the ultimate advantage: no one suspects him of being a highly trained spy.
This high-octane thriller is perfect for children who love fast-paced action, espionage, and stories where young people take on massive responsibilities. Ideal for readers interested in military fiction and secret agent tropes, Robert Muchamore delivers a gritty and realistic look at the world of international security. It is a great choice for fans of the Alex Rider series or Bodyguard books who are looking for a more mature and complex narrative.
Highlights:
- Intense, high-stakes espionage and counter-terrorism plot.
- Relatable teenage protagonist facing extraordinary circumstances.
- Explores themes of duty, bravery, and the moral complexities of spying.
- Fast-paced narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Blood Moon
by Britney S. Lewis
Mirabella Owens thought the legends of werewolves and vampires were just stories her mother told her before she vanished. Now a freshman at Lakeland University, Mira is trying to build a new life, but the past refuses to stay buried. When a series of brutal animal attacks strikes the campus, Mira finds herself drawn back into the myths she once rejected. This gripping paranormal mystery is perfect for readers who love dark urban fantasies and high-stakes romance.
As the Blood Moon approaches, Mira must team up with the mysterious Julian Santos to uncover the truth about her mother’s disappearance and the supernatural war brewing in her town. Ideal for readers interested in atmospheric settings and complex characters, Blood Moon blends elements of horror and romance into a thrilling coming-of-age story. It is a great choice for older teens looking for a sophisticated take on classic monster lore and family secrets.
Highlights:
- A dark and atmospheric university setting filled with hidden secrets.
- A compelling mystery involving family history and supernatural legends.
- Intense paranormal romance with a high-stakes life-or-death conflict.
- Ideal for fans of modern twists on werewolf and vampire mythology.
