Books about revenge

Boys with Sharp Teeth is a gripping and atmospheric debut that reimagines the classic tale of The Picture of Dorian Gray within the shadows of an elite boarding school. Seventeen-year-old Marin James is driven by a singular, cold purpose: revenge. After her cousin is found dead on the grounds of the exclusive Huntsworth Academy, Marin is certain that the school’s charismatic yet dangerous social leaders, Adrian and Henry, are responsible. To find the truth, she must infiltrate their world, posing as a student to dismantle their lives from the inside.

As Marin descends into the ivied halls of Huntsworth, she discovers that the truth is far more terrifying than she imagined. Drawn into a web of otherworldly secrets and twisted desires, she finds the lines between justice and vengeance beginning to blur. This dark fantasy is perfect for readers who love gothic mysteries, high-stakes drama, and stories where the monsters are as alluring as they are deadly. It is an ideal choice for fans of The Raven Boys and We Were Liars who crave a lush, suspenseful narrative filled with moral complexity.

Highlights:

• A dark and atmospheric reimagining of a classic literary masterpiece.
• Intense themes of revenge, justice, and the cost of secrets.
• A suspenseful dark academia setting filled with mystery and paranormal elements.
• Complex characters and a high-stakes plot that keeps readers guessing.
• Perfect for older teens who enjoy gothic romance and psychological thrillers.

Brigands M.C. is the high-octane eleventh installment in Robert Muchamore’s bestselling CHERUB series. This gripping thriller follows Dante Scott, a young man haunted by the brutal murder of his family at the hands of a ruthless biker gang. When Dante is recruited into CHERUB—a top-secret organization of highly trained teen agents—he finally gets the chance to seek justice. Alongside series favorites James and Lauren Adams, Dante must go undercover to infiltrate the dangerous Brigands Motorcycle Club, using his wits and training to survive in a world where adults never suspect a child is watching.

This book is perfect for children who love fast-paced action, undercover missions, and stories about overcoming personal tragedy. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in spy thrillers and gritty, realistic adventures that push characters to their limits. Fans of the series will appreciate the deep character development and the high stakes involved in this mission. It is a great choice for reluctant readers who enjoy cinematic pacing and intense plot twists.

Highlights:

• Intense undercover mission involving a notorious motorcycle club.
• Compelling backstory for new recruit Dante Scott.
• High-stakes action and realistic spy craft without the use of gadgets.
• Explores complex themes of justice, revenge, and finding a new family.

Clash of the Sky Galleons is a breathtaking installment in the legendary Edge Chronicles series, perfect for children who love high-stakes fantasy and intricate world-building. In this gripping tale, young Quint Verginix seeks justice against the man who destroyed his family. As he navigates the treacherous skies of the Edge aboard his father’s sky ship, readers are swept into a world of floating cities, bizarre creatures, and intense aerial battles. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in epic quests and complex emotional journeys.

This book stands out for its unique blend of dark atmosphere and imaginative wonder. Parents looking for a series that grows with their child will find this a great choice for middle-grade readers who enjoy stories about bravery and the bond between fathers and sons. With its rich descriptions and fast-paced plot, it keeps even reluctant readers engaged from start to finish. If your child enjoyed Percy Jackson or Wings of Fire, they will be captivated by the soaring adventures found within these pages.

Highlights:

• Epic sky-ship battles and high-altitude adventure.
• A deeply emotional story focusing on family and justice.
• Richly detailed world-building with unique creatures and locations.
• Part of a long-running, beloved fantasy series.

Crooked Kingdom is the pulse-pounding conclusion to Leigh Bardugo’s Six of Crows duology, set in the richly imagined Grishaverse. After surviving a death-defying heist, Kaz Brekker and his crew of outcasts find themselves double-crossed and fighting for survival on the dark, winding streets of Ketterdam. This high-stakes fantasy novel is perfect for readers who love complex characters, intricate world-building, and stories where the line between hero and villain is beautifully blurred.

Ideal for fans of the Shadow and Bone Netflix series, this book explores deep themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the search for redemption. As powerful global forces converge to claim the dangerous drug jurda parem, the crew must rely on their wits and each other to change the game and secure their future. It is a great choice for older teens and young adults looking for an epic adventure filled with clever twists and emotional depth.

Highlights:

• A thrilling conclusion to the fan-favorite Six of Crows duology.
• Features a diverse cast of compelling characters with unique backstories.
• Masterful world-building set in the gritty, atmospheric city of Ketterdam.
• Perfect for readers who enjoy high-stakes heists and found-family dynamics.

Goosebumps: Attack of the Jack-O'-Lanterns is a classic spooky tale from the master of children's horror, R.L. Stine. The story follows Drew Brockman and her friends, who are tired of being pranked every Halloween by local bullies Lee and Tabby. This year, Drew and her best friend Walker have a plan to give the bullies a taste of their own medicine. However, when two mysterious pumpkin-headed creatures join their trick-or-treating group, the night takes a terrifying turn that no one expected.

This book is perfect for children who love suspenseful stories and the thrill of a good scare without being overly graphic. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in supernatural mysteries and Halloween-themed adventures. The fast-paced plot and signature Goosebumps twist ending make it a great choice for reluctant readers who enjoy being kept on the edge of their seats. Parents will appreciate the nostalgic value of this series while introducing their kids to a world of spooky imagination.

Highlights:

• A thrilling Halloween-themed mystery with a supernatural twist.
• Relatable characters dealing with friendship and school bullies.
• Fast-paced chapters that encourage independent reading.
• Part of the iconic Goosebumps series that has captivated kids for decades.

Ricky Thomas is tired of being the school's favorite target for bullies. When he receives a mysterious message on his computer that says "Calling All Creeps," he thinks it's just another prank. However, he soon discovers a terrifying secret: some of his classmates aren't human at all. They are lizard-like creatures known as Creeps, and they are looking for a new leader to help them take over the school. Ricky faces a difficult choice: should he stop the monsters or join them to finally get revenge on his tormentors?

This classic entry in the Goosebumps series is perfect for children who love spooky stories with a twist. R.L. Stine masterfully blends relatable school-day struggles like bullying with supernatural suspense, making it an ideal choice for readers interested in light horror and fast-paced mysteries. It is a great choice for reluctant readers who enjoy short chapters and cliffhanger endings that keep them turning the pages late into the night.

Highlights:

• A relatable protagonist dealing with real-world issues like bullying and social pressure.
• Spooky, supernatural elements that provide "safe" scares for young readers.
• A surprising plot twist that challenges the reader's sense of right and wrong.
• Fast-paced storytelling and short chapters perfect for keeping kids engaged.

I Am Grimalkin is a gripping and dark entry in the acclaimed Wardstone Chronicles, shifting the perspective to one of the series' most complex and terrifying characters. Grimalkin, the deadly witch assassin, has dedicated her life to a singular, brutal goal: avenging her son's murder by destroying the Fiend. This chilling tale follows her as she forms an unlikely alliance with the Spook and his apprentice, Tom Ward, to ensure the Fiend's spirit is bound forever. It is a high-stakes race against time and ancient evils that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Perfect for children and teens who love dark fantasy and are looking for a story with a powerful, unconventional protagonist. This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in folklore, dark magic, and intense action. Fans of the Seventh Son movie or series like Ranger's Apprentice who are ready for a spookier, more mature challenge will find this installment particularly captivating. It is a great choice for those who enjoy stories where the line between hero and monster is blurred.

Highlights:

• A unique perspective from a formidable and feared witch assassin.
• Intense, atmospheric world-building rooted in dark folklore and horror.
• High-stakes action and a relentless pace that drives the overarching series plot.
• Explores complex moral themes of revenge, justice, and sacrifice.

In the Company of Killers is a high-stakes, pulse-pounding thriller that plunges readers into the dangerous world of organized crime. After her family is brutally murdered, a teenage mafia princess finds herself in an impossible situation. To find the person responsible and claim her vengeance, she must form an uneasy alliance with the heir to her family's greatest rival. This gripping tale of survival and betrayal is perfect for young adult readers who enjoy intense mysteries and complex character dynamics.

Ideal for fans of "enemies-to-lovers" tropes and fast-paced action, Elora Cook delivers a story where trust is a luxury and every choice could be fatal. This book is a great choice for readers interested in gritty urban settings, high-stakes drama, and the moral complexities of loyalty within a criminal underworld. It combines the tension of a detective story with the emotional weight of a coming-of-age journey under extreme circumstances.

Highlights:

• A thrilling "enemies-to-allies" dynamic between rival mafia heirs.
• A fast-paced mystery centered on revenge and uncovering dark family secrets.
• Explores deep themes of grief, resilience, and the cost of loyalty.
• Perfect for fans of gritty young adult thrillers and romantic suspense.

Kill Creatures is a gripping and atmospheric young adult thriller from the New York Times bestselling author of Wilder Girls. The story follows Nan, a girl living with a dark secret: a year ago, she killed her three best friends in the canyons near their small town. While the town of Saltcedar believes the girls simply vanished, Nan knows the truth. However, her world is turned upside down during a memorial service when one of the girls, Luce, crawls out of the river, very much alive and looking for answers.

This dark tale explores the toxic side of female friendships, the weight of guilt, and the lengths one will go to for revenge. It is an ideal choice for readers who enjoy psychological suspense with a sharp edge and complex, morally gray protagonists. Perfect for fans of dark mysteries and twisty narratives, this book offers a shocking conclusion that will leave readers breathless and eager to discuss every detail. Great choice for those who love stories about secrets and the consequences of the past.

Highlights:

• A haunting exploration of jealousy and the dark side of teenage friendship.
• A fast-paced, suspenseful plot with a shocking twist ending.
• Ideal for readers interested in psychological thrillers and intense emotional stakes.
• Features complex LGBTQ+ representation and atmospheric storytelling.
• Written by a master of unsettling and immersive YA fiction.

Set in the glitzy yet dangerous world of Los Angeles, Lady Midnight follows Emma Carstairs, a fierce Shadowhunter dedicated to avenging her parents' deaths. Five years after the devastating Dark War, Emma and her parabatai, Julian Blackthorn, investigate a series of mysterious murders that link back to her past. This gripping urban fantasy is perfect for readers who love high-stakes action, intricate world-building, and complex character dynamics.

As the investigation deepens, Emma and Julian must navigate the treacherous politics of the Shadow World and the return of Julian’s long-lost brother from the faerie realm. Ideal for fans of supernatural mysteries and epic romances, this novel explores the boundaries of loyalty and the weight of family secrets. It is a great choice for older teens who enjoy immersive series like The Mortal Instruments or A Court of Thorns and Roses.

Highlights:

• A thrilling blend of urban fantasy, mystery, and intense romance.
• Deeply developed characters and complex family relationships.
• An expansive, magical version of modern-day Los Angeles.
• Perfect for fans of the Shadowhunter Chronicles and epic YA sagas.

Long Way Down is an electrifying and intense novel that unfolds in just sixty seconds. Fifteen-year-old Will is grieving the murder of his older brother, Shawn. Following the 'rules' of his neighborhood—no crying, no snitching, and always seek revenge—Will steps into an elevator with a gun tucked into his waistband, intent on killing the person he believes is responsible. However, as the elevator descends, it stops at every floor, and a different person from Will's past gets on. The catch? Every single one of them is dead.

Written in fierce, staccato narrative verse, Jason Reynolds crafts a powerful story that explores the devastating cycle of gun violence and the weight of difficult choices. This book is ideal for readers interested in social justice, urban life, and emotionally resonant storytelling. It is a perfect choice for teenagers who prefer fast-paced, high-stakes narratives that challenge their perspectives on morality and family loyalty.

Highlights:

• A gripping story told entirely through beautiful and accessible narrative verse.
• Explores complex themes of grief, revenge, and the consequences of one's actions.
• Unique structure where the entire plot takes place during a one-minute elevator ride.
• Award-winning literature that sparks deep conversations about real-world issues.

Long Way Down: The Graphic Novel is a visceral and hauntingly beautiful adaptation of Jason Reynolds' award-winning novel in verse. The story follows fifteen-year-old Will, who is consumed by grief and anger after his older brother, Shawn, is murdered. Following 'The Rules' passed down through generations—No Crying, No Snitching, and Revenge—Will steps into an elevator with a gun tucked into his waistband, intent on killing the person he believes is responsible. However, the sixty-second ride to the ground floor becomes a transformative journey as the elevator stops at every floor, and Will is visited by ghosts of people from his past who were all victims of the same cycle of violence.

This graphic novel version, stunningly illustrated by Danica Novgorodoff, uses watercolor imagery to bring the raw emotion and tension of Will's internal struggle to life. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in social justice, urban realism, and stories that tackle difficult contemporary issues with nuance and empathy. Perfect for teenagers who appreciate powerful visual storytelling, this book provides a profound look at the consequences of our choices and the weight of legacy. It is a great choice for reluctant readers or those who loved the original verse novel and want to experience the story through a new, evocative lens.

Highlights:

• Breathtaking watercolor illustrations that enhance the emotional depth of the narrative.
• A gripping, high-stakes plot that takes place entirely within a sixty-second elevator ride.
• A powerful exploration of the 'cycle of violence' and the complexity of grief and revenge.
• An accessible yet profound reading experience perfect for engaging older teens in critical discussions.

Russian Roulette is a gripping, high-stakes prequel to the world-renowned Alex Rider series. While fans know Yassen Gregorovich as the cold-blooded assassin who killed Ian Rider, this novel takes readers back to where it all began. Following Yassen from his humble beginnings in Russia to his training as a lethal operative, the story explores the thin line between hero and villain. It is a dark, atmospheric journey that asks a profound question: what makes one boy choose to save lives while another chooses to take them?

Ideal for readers interested in international espionage and complex character studies, this book provides a gritty look at the world of spies that is perfect for children who love James Bond or the Cherub series. Anthony Horowitz delivers a masterclass in suspense, making this a great choice for reluctant readers who crave fast-paced action and moral complexity. Whether your child is a long-time fan of the series or new to the world of Alex Rider, this origin story is a must-read thriller.

Highlights:

• The thrilling origin story of the series' most enigmatic antagonist.
• Explores deep themes of choice, consequence, and moral ambiguity.
• Perfect for fans of high-octane action and international spy mysteries.
• Provides essential backstory that enriches the entire Alex Rider universe.

Shatter City is the pulse-pounding second installment in Scott Westerfeld’s Impostors series, set in the same high-stakes world as his iconic Uglies books. Following the journey of Frey, a girl raised to be her twin sister's secret double, the story plunges readers into the futuristic city of Paz. In this unique society, citizens use technology to regulate their emotions, creating a facade of peace that is about to be shattered. As Frey navigates this strange new world, she must decide who she is when she isn't playing a role, all while a rebellion brews and her father's dangerous influence looms.

This book is perfect for children and teens who love fast-paced dystopian thrillers and stories about secret identities. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in how technology affects human connection and those who enjoy complex family dynamics. With its blend of high-tech gadgets, intense action sequences, and emotional depth, it’s a great choice for fans of The Hunger Games or Divergent looking for their next obsession.

Highlights:

• Explores a fascinating futuristic city where emotions are controlled by technology.
• Features a strong, capable female protagonist fighting for her own identity.
• Packed with high-stakes action, political intrigue, and survival elements.
• Deepens the lore of the beloved Uglies universe for a new generation.

Step into the gritty, bustling streets of Ketterdam, a city where everything has a price. Six of Crows follows criminal prodigy Kaz Brekker as he is offered the chance of a lifetime: a deadly heist into the world’s most secure military stronghold. To succeed, Kaz must assemble a crew of outcasts, including a convict seeking revenge, a sharpshooter with a gambling problem, a runaway with a secret past, a spy known as the Wraith, and a Heartrender using magic to survive. This high-stakes adventure is perfect for readers who love complex world-building and characters with moral gray areas.

Ideal for fans of the Grishaverse and readers interested in found-family tropes, this novel blends intense action with deep emotional stakes. As the crew navigates impossible odds and their own internal conflicts, they must learn to trust each other to prevent global destruction. It is a great choice for older teens looking for a sophisticated fantasy that balances dark themes with crackling dialogue and a fast-paced plot.

Highlights:

• A thrilling, high-stakes heist set in a richly imagined fantasy world.
• A diverse cast of six unique protagonists with deeply developed backstories.
• Explores complex themes of loyalty, trauma, and redemption.
• Perfect for fans of Shadow and Bone and gritty young adult adventures.

The Beasts We Bury is a gripping dark fantasy that will captivate fans of high-stakes magic and complex moral dilemmas. Set in a realm torn apart by a ruthless ruler, the story follows Mancella Cliff, an heir with a haunting power: she can summon animals, but only after she has killed them. As she struggles to find a path toward peace without becoming the monster her father wants her to be, she crosses paths with Silver, a charming thief seeking revenge against the crown. This enemies-to-lovers tale is perfect for readers who enjoy intricate world-building and characters who must choose between their hearts and their duty.

Ideal for fans of Brigid Kemmerer and Adrienne Young, this novel explores the weight of legacy and the cost of power. Parents looking for engaging YA fantasy with strong romantic elements and a touch of darkness will find this a compelling choice for their teens. It is a great choice for readers interested in stories about redemption, deception, and the courage it takes to break free from a violent past.

Highlights:

• A unique and dark magic system involving animal summoning and sacrifice.
• A high-stakes heist plot set within a dangerous royal castle.
• Compelling dual perspectives from a conflicted princess and a vengeful thief.
• Deep exploration of moral ambiguity and breaking the cycle of violence.

The Poison Jungle is the thrilling thirteenth installment in the global phenomenon Wings of Fire series. This high-stakes adventure follows Sundew, a fierce LeafWing dragon on a mission of revenge. After the HiveWings nearly wiped out her tribe and destroyed the forests of Pantala, Sundew has spent her life hiding in the dangerous, carnivorous Poison Jungle. Now, she must lead her friends into the heart of the wilderness to unearth an ancient secret that could change the fate of all dragonkind.

Ideal for readers who love epic world-building and complex characters, this book explores themes of environmental preservation, the cost of war, and the power of truth. It is a perfect choice for children who enjoy series like Warriors or Percy Jackson, offering a rich tapestry of dragon lore and pulse-pounding action. Sutherland's masterful storytelling ensures that both long-time fans and new readers will be captivated by the secrets hidden within the greenery.

Highlights:

• Features a strong, determined female protagonist navigating moral complexities.
• Immersive world-building centered on the unique ecology of the Poison Jungle.
• High-stakes plot filled with mystery, ancient legends, and dragon warfare.
• Explores deep themes of loyalty, environmentalism, and overcoming prejudice.

The Queen's Spade is a gripping historical thriller that reimagines the life of Sarah Forbes Bonetta, the real-life African princess who became Queen Victoria's goddaughter. Set in the simmering atmosphere of 1862 Victorian England, this novel follows nineteen-year-old Sally as she navigates the treacherous waters of the royal court. But Sally isn't just a guest; she is a woman fueled by a vow of revenge against the monarchy that stole her from her homeland. This riveting tale blends high-stakes court politics with a dangerous underworld romance, making it a perfect choice for readers who enjoy complex heroines and dark historical secrets.

Ideal for fans of Bridgerton and Belladonna, Sarah Raughley delivers a story where justice and freedom are the ultimate prizes. As Sally manipulates the inner circle of the Crown and faces a looming forced marriage, she must decide if the price of vengeance is worth the sacrifice of her heart. This book is a great choice for teenagers and young adults interested in colonial history, royal intrigue, and stories of powerful women reclaiming their agency.

Highlights:

• Inspired by the fascinating true story of Sarah Forbes Bonetta.
• A high-stakes blend of Victorian court politics and London's gritty underworld.
• Explores powerful themes of colonialism, identity, and the quest for freedom.
• Perfect for readers who love historical thrillers with a romantic edge.

The Royal Ranger marks a powerful and emotional return to the beloved world of John Flanagan’s Ranger's Apprentice series. After a devastating personal tragedy, the legendary Ranger Will Treaty has lost his way, consumed by a dark desire for revenge. To save him from himself, his mentor Halt suggests a mission he cannot refuse: taking on a new apprentice. However, this apprentice is unlike any before—a rebellious princess who needs discipline as much as Will needs a new purpose. This gripping tale is perfect for children who love epic fantasy, medieval settings, and stories of redemption.

Ideal for readers interested in archery, woodcraft, and high-stakes missions, this novel explores the heavy burden of duty and the power of mentorship. As Will and his new charge investigate a web of crime, they must navigate dangerous territory where the line between justice and vengeance blurs. It is a great choice for fans of the Brotherband Chronicles or anyone seeking a story with deep emotional resonance and thrilling action. Parents will appreciate the themes of resilience and moral integrity that define the Ranger Corps.

Highlights:

• A high-stakes conclusion to the original Ranger's Apprentice arc.
• Explores complex themes of grief, healing, and the bond between mentor and student.
• Features a strong, rebellious female protagonist entering the male-dominated Ranger Corps.
• Packed with the tactical action and survival skills fans of John Flanagan adore.

Roald Dahl’s The Twits is a hilariously revolting classic that has delighted generations of young readers. The story introduces us to Mr. and Mrs. Twit, perhaps the most unpleasant couple in children's literature. They spend their days playing increasingly mean-spirited tricks on one another—like putting worms in spaghetti or shrinking a cane—and mistreating their captive monkeys, the Muggle-Wumps. This book is a perfect choice for children who love dark humor, slapstick comedy, and stories where the villains finally get what’s coming to them.

Ideal for readers interested in funny animal stories and tales of clever revenge, the narrative shifts as the Muggle-Wumps decide they have had enough of the Twits' cruelty. With the help of the Roly-Poly Bird, the monkeys hatch a brilliant plan to turn the Twits' world upside down—literally. It is a great choice for reluctant readers due to its fast pace, short chapters, and the iconic, energetic illustrations by Quentin Blake. Parents looking for a book that balances gross-out humor with a satisfying moral ending will find this a staple for their child's bookshelf.

Highlights:

• A wickedly funny tale about the importance of being kind rather than cruel.
• Engaging, short chapters that are perfect for transitional readers.
• Memorable characters and iconic illustrations that bring the story to life.
• A satisfying and imaginative justice plot that empowers the underdog.

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.