Best YA Fantasy & Adventure Series for Teen Readers

Discover thrilling YA fantasy and adventure series perfect for teens, including 'The Inheritance Games', 'The Heirs', and 'The Gilded Blade'.

Who these books are for

Immerse yourself in the intrigue, magic, and high-stakes adventures of these captivating YA fantasy series. From royal courts to hidden inheritances and daring heists, these books will transport you to richly imagined worlds and keep you on the edge of your seat. Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Leigh Bardugo, and Cassandra Clare, these series are sure to delight teen readers and leave them eagerly awaiting the next installment.

The collection

  1. The Gilded Blade

    The Gilded Blade is a thrilling conclusion to the Inheritance Games Saga, delivering intricate puzzles, high-stakes mystery, and romantic tension in a richly detailed world.

    For: Fans of the series, and readers who enjoy complex young adult fantasy with a competitive, game-like plot.

    Strengths: Expertly weaves together multiple storylines, character arcs, and centuries-old secrets into a satisfying, action-packed finale.

    Skip if: May be challenging for new readers to fully engage with without prior knowledge of the series and its characters.

    Comparable: Compared to other books in the collection, The Gilded Blade stands out for its elaborate, multi-layered plot and the sheer scale of its world-building and character ensemble.

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  2. The Inheritance Games

    A thrilling page-turner packed with twists, puzzles, and high-stakes intrigue, perfect for fans of mystery and young adult fiction.

    For: Teenagers and young adults seeking a suspenseful, character-driven story with a touch of romance and elite setting.

    Strengths: Crafts an intricate, engaging plot with unexpected turns; develops a relatable, feisty protagonist; immerses readers in a lavish, privileged world.

    Skip if: At times, the novel's dense, layered mysteries can be overwhelming, requiring close attention to keep up with the story.

    Comparable: Fans of 'Knives Out,' 'One of Us is Lying,' and 'Truly Devious' will appreciate this YA whodunit's clever plotting and atmospheric setting.

    “Part The Westing Game, part We Were Liars, completely entertaining.”

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  3. The Heirs

    The Heirs is a captivating mystery that delves into the complex dynamics of five child prodigies grappling with the aftermath of their billionaire father's murder, while exploring themes of privilege, pressure, and family secrets.

    For: Teenagers and young adults who enjoy suspenseful, character-driven stories with a touch of dark humor and a whodunit plot will appreciate this engaging read.

    Strengths: Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé masterfully crafts a multi-perspective narrative that keeps readers guessing, while also providing nuanced character development and thought-provoking social commentary.

    Skip if: The large cast of characters can be challenging to keep track of, especially in the early stages of the novel.

    Comparable: Fans of The Inheritance Games, Knives Out, and The Umbrella Academy will find echoes of their favorite tropes and themes in this intricate, suspenseful tale of privilege, family, and murder.

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Frequently asked questions

What kind of themes can I expect in these YA fantasy series?
Expect themes of power struggles, loyalty, hidden identities, and social hierarchy.
Are these series part of a larger world or standalone?
Most are part of ongoing series, with the potential for crossovers.
What's the age range and reading level for these books?
Generally targeted at readers 13 and up, with a reading ease level suitable for average high school students.