Young Adult Mystery and True Crime
Whether you like your mysteries murderous, filled with fantasy, or a bit on the funny side, this fast-paced genre is great for readers looking for a book that will grab their attention! Brush up on your investigative research skills with a true crime book, take a trip deep into the woods in a ghost story, or try to puzzle out who in a cast of characters delivered the fatal blow. Whatever path you choose, you're in for a screamingly good read!
They say truth is scarier than fiction and that's never been more real than in the true crime genre. In these books, you'll investigate one of the most famous kidnappings of the modern age, learn about the science and art of poisons, and follow along on an obsessive quest for the truth. See if you can solve these real-life riddles along with the researchers behind these well-written, non-fiction books.
A well-researched account of the Lindbergh kidnapping that Kirkus Reviews called “compelling”, this book explores the theory that the man executed for the highly publicized taking and death of Baby Lindbergh was not, in fact, the one responsible for the crime.
A combination of true-crime and meticulous reporting, the late McNamara’s book shows both the limits and benefits of new crime solving technologies as well as the psychological toll such mysteries take on those solving them.
Considered the true-crime narrative that started them all, Capote’s tale of cold blooded murder in a small, Kansas town will give readers an appreciation for the roots of the genre.
Both a background on the poisonous crimes that plagued New York at the turn of the century and an up close look at the development of forensic medicine. A fascinating piece of historical non-fiction for lovers of mystery.
There's nothing like an isolated setting, with some quirky characters and hidden twists and turns, to intrigue readers. Whether it's an uppity private school full of girls with secrets, a deserted lane leading into the deep woods, or an island that serves as a luxurious and dangerous playground for the ultra-rich, these mysteries in unique settings will be sure to draw you into their worlds!
A girl’s body showing up in a lake really disrupts things for popular girl Kay and her private school friends. But things are about to get even more scary when secrets from Kay’s past start to surface, as well.
A missing girl and the sister determined to find her are wrapped up in a Blair Witch-style documentary story along with a ghost bent on revenge and the truths that can be found in local lore.
Sherlock Holmes updated for the modern era, this first in a series book follows the spirited adventures of Watson and Holmes’ descendants set against a lush and traditional boarding school background.
A private island, a wealthy family, and a mysterious head injury combine to make one heck of a summer mystery read. Join Candace and her wealthy family as she uncovers the events of her lost Fifteenth Summer.
Small towns can hide big stories. These books take you from the isolated back roads of Colorado to amusement parks that are all but deserted and a community of families strung together by the mass deaths of their daughters. It turns out that tight knit communities can fray easily, especially if it turns out the killer is among them.
The sharp and scary story of a town where all of the cheerleaders are dead. What drove them to their deaths? And is it coming back?
When seventeen-year-old Cassie’s talent for reading people is noticed by the FBI, she’s drawn into a web of cold cases that will put her in the sights of a very much still active serial killer.
Combining the true crime and podcast trends, follow the dual stories of Sadie, missing girl on the run from a killer, and West McCray, the podcast host who has become fascinated by her story and is tracking her.
Ellery and her brother return to the childhood home of her mom, and the site of their aunt’s disappearance, only to find someone in town still has murderous plans. A compelling thriller, fans should also check out McManus’ other work One of Us is Lying.