Books about family secrets

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.

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.

Chain of Thorns is the breathtaking conclusion to Cassandra Clare’s The Last Hours series, set in the atmospheric streets of Edwardian London and the glittering lights of Paris. This epic Shadowhunters novel follows Cordelia Carstairs and James Herondale as they navigate a web of family secrets, demonic threats, and a marriage under strain. After losing her father and her powers, Cordelia must find the strength to return home and face the Prince of Hell, Belial, alongside the Merry Thieves. It is a high-stakes adventure filled with magic, heartbreak, and the enduring power of friendship.

Ideal for readers interested in historical fantasy and complex character dynamics, this book is perfect for fans who love the Shadowhunter Chronicles or series like The Infernal Devices. Parents looking for a deeply immersive and emotionally resonant story for older teens will find this a great choice for readers who enjoy intricate world-building and romantic tension. With its blend of supernatural action and historical elegance, it offers a satisfying finale to a beloved trilogy.

Highlights:

• The thrilling conclusion to the The Last Hours trilogy.
• Richly detailed historical setting of 1900s London and Paris.
• Complex exploration of loyalty, love, and family legacy.
• Epic battles against powerful demonic forces.
• Features fan-favorite characters from the Shadowhunter universe.

Embergold is a captivating Young Adult fantasy that breathes new life into dragon lore. Gilde has spent her entire life hidden away in the safety of the marshlands, protected from the dragons that haunt her world. But when she reaches adulthood, her father's sudden demand that she leave leads to a devastating betrayal. Waking up in a crumbling mountain castle, Gilde finds herself at the mercy of a beast she has always feared—only to discover that this dragon is far more human than she ever imagined. He speaks, he reads, and his unexpected kindness challenges everything she thought she knew about her enemies.

This novel is perfect for readers who love Beauty and the Beast retellings with a high-fantasy twist. As Gilde navigates a mountain full of secrets and uncovers the truth about her own family's past, she must decide if she can ever trust again. Ideal for fans of character-driven fantasy and stories featuring complex world-building, Embergold explores deep themes of sacrifice, identity, and the courage it takes to see past appearances. It is a great choice for teens and young adults looking for a clean yet emotionally resonant adventure.

Highlights:

• A unique and intellectual take on dragon mythology.
• A compelling "enemies-to-allies" dynamic built on trust and secrets.
• Richly atmospheric setting moving from marshlands to mountain castles.
• Explores profound themes of family betrayal and self-discovery.

Games Untold is an essential addition to the world of the global sensation The Inheritance Games. This collection of stories by Jennifer Lynn Barnes dives deeper into the lives of the Hawthorne brothers and Avery Grambs, offering fans a closer look at the secrets, puzzles, and high-stakes drama that define their lives. Perfect for readers who love intricate mysteries and complex family dynamics, this book explores the 'untold' moments that shaped the characters fans have come to adore.

Ideal for readers interested in intellectual challenges and romantic tension, this volume bridges gaps in the series and provides new perspectives on the Hawthorne legacy. Whether it's a secret mission or a hidden truth coming to light, each story is packed with the signature wit and fast-paced plotting that made the original trilogy a bestseller. It is a great choice for teens who enjoy 'found family' tropes mixed with the allure of extreme wealth and dangerous games.

Highlights:

• Expands the lore of the fan-favorite Hawthorne brothers and Avery Grambs.
• Features the signature puzzles, riddles, and high-stakes competition the series is known for.
• Perfect for fans of Knives Out and One of Us Is Lying.
• Explores deeper character backstories and romantic developments.

Step back into the world of high-stakes competition and mind-bending puzzles in Glorious Rivals, the electrifying sequel to Jennifer Lynn Barnes's The Grandest Game. In this pulse-pounding Young Adult thriller, the stakes have never been higher as a new group of players competes for a life-changing prize. Set against a backdrop of immense wealth and hidden agendas, this novel is perfect for readers who crave intricate mysteries and complex character dynamics.

Ideal for fans of The Inheritance Games, this book combines the thrill of a scavenger hunt with the emotional depth of contemporary fiction. As the rivals navigate a series of deadly challenges, they must decide who to trust and how far they are willing to go to win. With its fast-paced narrative and clever twists, it is a great choice for teens who love solving riddles alongside their favorite characters. Parents will appreciate the emphasis on critical thinking and the exploration of family loyalty and personal integrity.

Highlights:

• High-stakes competition filled with intricate puzzles and riddles.
• Compelling ensemble cast with complex relationships and rivalries.
• Perfect for fans of mystery, suspense, and strategic games.
• Explores themes of ambition, wealth, and the true meaning of legacy.

Mark is a normal kid who loves video games and adventure, but his life takes a terrifying turn when he receives a mysterious gift from his Aunt Benna: a real shrunken head! When Mark is invited to visit his aunt in the remote jungles of Baladora, he expects the vacation of a lifetime. Instead, he finds himself entangled in a dark mystery involving ancient magic, strange rituals, and a jungle that holds more secrets than he ever imagined. As Mark discovers the strange 'glow' within the shrunken head, he must learn to harness its power before it is too late.

How I Got My Shrunken Head is a classic entry in R.L. Stine's legendary Goosebumps series. It is the perfect choice for children who love spooky stories that balance suspense with lighthearted adventure. Ideal for readers interested in tropical settings, mysterious artifacts, and supernatural thrills, this book keeps young audiences on the edge of their seats without being overly graphic. It is a great choice for reluctant readers who enjoy fast-paced plots and cliffhanger chapters.

Highlights:

• A thrilling jungle adventure filled with mystery and suspense.
• Explores themes of bravery and discovering hidden strengths.
• Fast-paced writing style that is perfect for middle-grade readers.
• Features the iconic supernatural twists that R.L. Stine is famous for.
• Great for fans of spooky artifacts and ancient legends.

Step into the high-stakes world of Almus Terra Academy, a prestigious boarding school where the global elite are groomed for power. In Royal Heirs Academy, four teenagers find themselves in a cutthroat competition to inherit the throne of Ashland. With King Leander Eldana finally ready to name a successor, Titus, Alaric, Emmeline, and Sadie must navigate a web of lies, secret alliances, and intense rivalries. This modern-day royal drama is perfect for fans of Gossip Girl and American Royals who crave stories filled with glamour, intrigue, and high-tension romance.

Ideal for readers interested in the complexities of family legacy and the price of ambition, this page-turner explores what happens when the quest for a crown collides with personal desire. Whether it is the enemies-to-lovers tension or the unique Hippie Hogwarts setting, there is something for every teen reader looking for their next obsession. Great choice for those who love boarding school mysteries and stories about the secret lives of the rich and royal.

Highlights:

• Compelling multi-POV narrative following four distinct contenders for the throne.
• Intense enemies-to-lovers romance and complex social dynamics.
• A glamorous modern-day setting inspired by elite international boarding schools.
• Themes of family secrets, revenge, and the struggle for self-identity.

In "Save You", dem zweiten Band der packenden Maxton-Hall-Trilogie von Bestseller-Autorin Mona Kasten, begleiten wir Ruby Bell durch ein emotionales Trümmerfeld. Nachdem James Beaufort ihr Herz in tausend Stücke gerissen hat, wünscht sich Ruby nichts sehnlicher, als in ihre unsichtbare Welt am Maxton Hall College zurückzukehren. Doch James lässt nicht locker und setzt alles daran, Ruby zurückzugewinnen. Die Geschichte ist perfekt für Jugendliche und junge Erwachsene, die hochemotionale Achterbahnfahrten und dramatische Liebesgeschichten in einem exklusiven Setting lieben.

Dieses Buch ist die ideale Wahl für Leserinnen und Leser, die sich für Themen wie Vergebung, soziale Unterschiede und die erste große Liebe interessieren. Mona Kasten schafft es meisterhaft, die Zerrissenheit zwischen tiefem Schmerz und unaufhaltsamer Anziehung darzustellen. Wer den ersten Teil verschlungen hat, wird von dieser Fortsetzung begeistert sein, die noch tiefer in die Abgründe der elitären Welt eintaucht und zeigt, dass wahre Gefühle oft komplizierter sind als gedacht.

Highlights:

• Hochemotionale Fortsetzung der Spiegel-Bestseller-Reihe Maxton Hall
• Fesselnde Dynamik zwischen den Hauptcharakteren Ruby und James
• Einblicke in die Welt der elitären Privatschulen mit all ihren Schattenseiten
• Themen wie Vertrauen, Verrat und die Suche nach dem eigenen Weg

Talking to Dragons is the delightful conclusion to Patricia C. Wrede’s beloved Enchanted Forest Chronicles. The story follows Daystar, a young man who has grown up on the edge of the Enchanted Forest with his mother, Cimorene. When his mother hands him a magical sword and sends him into the forest without much explanation, Daystar must navigate a world filled with polite dragons, wicked wizards, and eccentric companions. This book is perfect for children who love fractured fairy tales and stories that flip traditional fantasy tropes on their heads.

Ideal for readers interested in humorous adventures and magical quests, this novel stands out for its witty dialogue and clever world-building. While it is the fourth book in the series, it offers a fresh perspective through Daystar’s eyes, making it a great choice for fans of the previous books or those looking for a lighthearted yet high-stakes fantasy. It’s a wonderful pick for middle-grade readers who enjoy stories about self-discovery and the importance of choosing one's own path.

Highlights:

• A humorous and refreshing take on classic fairy tale tropes.
• Engaging characters, including a very sensible dragon and a fire-witch.
• A fast-paced quest filled with magic, mystery, and wit.
• Explores themes of identity and family heritage in a fun, accessible way.

The Bridge to Neverland is a thrilling modern-day adventure that brings the magic of Peter Pan into the 21st century. When siblings Aidan and Sarah discover a hidden compartment in their grandfather’s old desk, they find a mysterious, translucent map covered in strange ink and a cryptic verse. This discovery sets off a high-stakes quest that takes them from their quiet home all the way to the bustling streets of London. As they follow the clues, they realize that the legends of Neverland might be far more real—and more dangerous—than they ever imagined.

This book is perfect for children who love solving puzzles, deciphering codes, and exploring the intersection of reality and fairy tales. Ideal for readers interested in fast-paced mysteries and fans of the Peter and the Starcatchers series, Dave Barry delivers a story filled with humor, suspense, and wonder. It is a great choice for middle-grade readers who enjoy expansive worlds and stories where ordinary kids become heroes.

Highlights:

• A modern-day sequel to the beloved Peter Pan mythos.
• Intriguing puzzles and codes that keep readers guessing.
• An international adventure spanning from the US to London.
• Strong sibling dynamics and relatable protagonists.
• A perfect blend of humor, magic, and high-stakes action.

The Hawthorne Legacy is the heart-pounding sequel to the global sensation The Inheritance Games. After Avery Grambs inherited a literal fortune from a man she never met, she is thrust deeper into a world of puzzles, riddles, and dangerous family secrets. This high-stakes mystery is perfect for teens who love Knives Out or Truly Devious, offering a blend of intellectual challenges and emotional depth. As Avery searches for the truth about her connection to the Hawthorne family, she must navigate the magnetic pull of the Hawthorne grandsons, Grayson and Jameson, while dodging threats from those who want her gone.

Ideal for readers interested in complex puzzles and 'rags-to-riches' stories with a dark twist, this book keeps the momentum high with jet-setting adventures and shocking revelations. Parents will appreciate the focus on critical thinking and resilience, while teens will be captivated by the swoonworthy romance and the intricate web of lies. It is a great choice for fans of fast-paced thrillers and contemporary mysteries that explore themes of class, identity, and the true meaning of family.

Highlights:

• Intricate, escape-room style puzzles and riddles that engage the reader's mind.
• A compelling love triangle dynamic that adds emotional tension to the mystery.
• Exploration of wealth, privilege, and the secrets hidden within powerful dynasties.
• Fast-paced, cinematic action that makes it a true page-turner for reluctant readers.

The Notorious Virtues is a captivating Young Adult fantasy that transports readers into a world of glamour, magic, and deadly competition. Written by Alwyn Hamilton, the acclaimed author of Rebel of the Sands, this novel follows Nora, a young woman living in a society where the elite possess "Virtues"—extraordinary magical abilities. When her powerful grandmother passes away, Nora is thrust into a series of cutthroat trials to determine who will inherit the family's immense legacy and influence. It is a perfect choice for readers who enjoy high-stakes competitions and intricate world-building.

Ideal for fans of The Selection or The Hunger Games, this book blends the tension of a mystery with the wonder of a magical system. Parents will find it a great choice for teenagers who love stories about strong protagonists navigating complex social hierarchies and uncovering dark family secrets. With its fast-paced plot and romantic undertones, it keeps readers hooked from the first page to the last, making it a must-read for any YA fantasy enthusiast.

Highlights:

• A unique magical system based on inherited "Virtues" and social status.
• High-stakes inheritance trials filled with suspense and strategy.
• A compelling protagonist navigating a world of betrayal and ambition.
• Perfect for fans of magical competitions and high-society intrigue.

The Pearl Thief is a captivating historical mystery that serves as a prequel to the acclaimed Code Name Verity. Set in the lush but socially complex landscape of 1930s Scotland, the story follows fifteen-year-old Julia Beaufort-Stuart. After a mysterious injury lands her in the hospital, Julia returns to her family's estate only to find a web of secrets. A missing employee and the discovery of a body thrust her into a dangerous investigation where she must navigate the sharp divides of social class and the deep-seated prejudices against the Scottish Traveller community.

This novel is perfect for readers who love intricate historical settings and strong, intelligent female leads. Elizabeth Wein masterfully blends a coming-of-age journey with a gripping whodunit plot, making it an ideal choice for fans of period dramas and atmospheric mysteries. As Julia befriends the McEwen family, she learns about the harsh realities of bias, making this a thought-provoking read for older teens interested in social justice and historical realism. It is a great choice for those who enjoy character-driven stories with a touch of romance and high stakes.

Highlights:

• A thrilling prequel featuring the beloved character Julia Beaufort-Stuart before the events of WWII.
• Richly detailed setting in pre-war Scotland and the fascinating history of river pearls.
• Explores important themes of prejudice, classism, and social justice through a teenage lens.
• A compelling mix of mystery, romance, and historical exploration that stands alone or complements the series.

In The Spook's Sacrifice, the sixth installment of the chilling Wardstone Chronicles, Tom Ward faces his most personal and perilous mission yet. As the Spook's apprentice, Tom is used to battling boggarts and witches in the County, but now his mother, Mam, calls him to her homeland of Greece. A terrifying ancient deity known as the Ordeen is poised to return, threatening to plunge the world into eternal darkness. With the Devil himself roaming free and seeking an unholy alliance, the stakes have never been higher for young Tom.

This dark fantasy adventure is perfect for children who love high-stakes supernatural battles and eerie atmospheres. Ideal for readers interested in mythology, folklore, and the classic struggle between light and shadow, Joseph Delaney crafts a world where every choice carries a heavy price. Fans of the series will be gripped by the deepening lore of Tom’s family and the escalating danger that tests his courage to the limit. It is a great choice for those who enjoy stories that don't shy away from the darker side of magic.

Highlights:

• An epic journey to Greece featuring ancient gods and dark mythology.
• High-stakes conflict involving the Devil and the return of the Ordeen.
• Deep exploration of Tom's family history and his mother's mysterious past.
• A perfect blend of horror, suspense, and coming-of-age character development.

The Wilde Trials is a gripping young adult thriller that plunges readers into a world of extreme wealth, dark family secrets, and a high-stakes competition where the winner takes all. When Georgia Wilde’s grandfather passes away, she expects a simple inheritance. Instead, she and her estranged cousins are forced into the 'Wilde Trials'—a series of dangerous and psychological challenges designed to prove who is worthy of the family fortune. As the games intensify, Georgia realizes that some secrets are worth killing for, and her own family might be her biggest threat.

This novel is perfect for teens who love fast-paced mysteries and stories about elite societies. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in complex puzzles, shifting alliances, and the moral dilemmas that come with immense power. Fans of The Inheritance Games and One of Us Is Lying will find themselves captivated by the twists and turns of Georgia’s journey. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy high-tension narratives where nothing is as it seems and every character has a hidden motive.

Highlights:

• A high-stakes inheritance competition filled with puzzles and danger.
• Deep exploration of family dynamics, legacy, and the corrupting influence of wealth.
• A strong, determined female protagonist navigating a web of lies.
• Perfect for fans of 'Knives Out' style mysteries and elite settings.

In These Vengeful Wishes, aspiring artist Ceci is uprooted from her life and moved to the eccentric town of Santa Aguas after her stepfather's arrest. The town is steeped in the terrifying legend of La Cegua, a vengeful spirit who punishes untrustworthy men. As Ceci settles into a crumbling, rumored-to-be-cursed manor, she begins to paint a mysterious door that she eventually finds hidden deep within the forest. Alongside her new friend Jamie, she discovers a well that grants wishes—but in Santa Aguas, every wish comes with a devastating price.

This atmospheric YA horror novel is ideal for readers interested in dark folklore and stories where the past refuses to stay buried. Vanessa Montalban crafts a haunting narrative that explores the weight of family secrets and the thin line between justice and revenge. It is a great choice for fans of Trang Thanh Tran and Krystal Sutherland, offering a perfect blend of supernatural chills and emotional depth. Parents looking for diverse horror with strong cultural roots will find this a captivating addition to their teen's bookshelf.

Highlights:

• A dark and immersive exploration of Latinx folklore and the legend of La Cegua.
• A gripping mystery centered on a cursed family manor and long-hidden secrets.
• Perfect for fans of atmospheric YA horror and supernatural thrillers.
• Explores complex themes of justice, revenge, and the consequences of our desires.

Unlocked is a must-have addition to the Keeper of the Lost Cities series, serving as book 8.5 in the epic saga. This unique volume is part comprehensive series guide and part gripping novella, told from the alternating perspectives of fan-favorite characters Sophie Foster and Keefe Sencen. It offers a deep dive into the magical world Shannon Messenger has created, featuring beautiful illustrations, character profiles, and even recipes from the Lost Cities, making it the perfect companion for dedicated fans who want to immerse themselves in every detail of the elvin world.

The story picks up right where the previous installment left off, delivering high-stakes action and emotional revelations that move the overarching plot forward. Ideal for readers interested in complex world-building and character-driven fantasy, this book bridges the gap between major novels while providing essential lore. It is a great choice for children who love series like Harry Potter or The Land of Stories and are looking for a story that balances magical wonder with relatable coming-of-age struggles.

Highlights:

• Includes a powerful novella that continues the main series storyline.
• Features exclusive series content, including full-color illustrations and detailed maps.
• Deepens character backstories and explores the intricate politics of the Lost Cities.
• Perfect for fans of epic fantasy and long-running adventure series.