8 Best YA Mystery Series for Young Readers

Not too long ago, my brother asked me if my mysteries would be appropriate for one of the younger members of our family. Despite my books being “cozy” with minimal violence and no sex or bad language, I still didn’t think they’d be right for my sweet 11-year-old niece. After all, they’re still murder mysteries with no shortage of dead bodies.

The conversation took me back to my own love of mysteries, which started with my heroine, Nancy Drew. The books in that series—still going strong with more than 160 books—were always loaded with intriguing puzzles but very little violence. I know things have radically changed since I was a kid, but I still feel like today’s young readers need modern, twist-filled thrillers combined with clever clues, relatable characters, and just the right amount of danger.

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Fortunately, plenty of top-notch mystery authors agree, which is why there are quite a few series delivering that irresistible “just one more chapter” feeling. And every one of these series has earned more than four stars on Amazon. Here are eight of the best YA mystery series for budding detectives… and lifelong mystery fans, too!

1. The Nancy Drew Diaries by Carolyn Keene

26 books in the series

First book: Curse of the Arctic Star

Not to be confused with the original Nancy Drew series, this modern refresh reintroduces the iconic teen detective with updated settings and fast-paced plots. In the first book, Nancy and her friends Bess and George investigate sabotage aboard a luxury Alaskan cruise, where accidents turn deadly and no one is quite what they seem. With friendship, danger, and classic whodunit intrigue, this series is a perfect gateway for young readers discovering mystery fiction.

2. The Notebook Mysteries by Kimberly Mullins

7 books in the series

First book: Emma

Set in 1881 Chicago, this charming historical mystery series follows sixteen-year-old Emma, whose keen observations draw her into crimes far beyond her expectations. As she records clues in her notebooks, Emma uncovers secrets involving theft, murder, and hidden motives, all while navigating her own coming-of-age journey. With its cozy tone and relatable heroine, this series is especially appealing to younger YA readers.

3. The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

6 books in the series (including spin-offs)

First book: The Inheritance Games

When Avery Grambs unexpectedly inherits a billionaire’s fortune, she’s thrust into a world of riddles, secret passages, and a family determined to uncover her secrets. Forced to live in a sprawling mansion filled with puzzles, Avery must solve a mystery she doesn’t even understand: why she was chosen to receive this legacy. The series blends high-stakes intrigue with clever clues and twists, making it a standout for fans of puzzle-driven mysteries.

4. Truly Devious by Maureen Johnson

6 books in the series

First book: Truly Devious

At an elite boarding school famous for an unsolved kidnapping, true-crime enthusiast Stevie Bell is determined to crack the case. But when a new murder occurs, past and present collide in a layered mystery filled with riddles and hidden secrets. With dual timelines and a richly atmospheric setting, this series delivers a classic whodunit feel with a modern YA twist.

5. Charlotte Holmes Series by Brittany Cavallaro

4 books in the series

First book: A Study in Charlotte

What if Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson had teenage descendants tackling a brand-new case? This smart, suspenseful series follows Charlotte Holmes and Jamie Watson as they investigate murders at their Connecticut boarding school while trying to clear their own names. Blending literary homage with dark academia vibes, the series offers sharp dialogue, complex characters, and plenty of twists.

6. A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson

3 books in the series

First book: A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder

Pip Fitz-Amobi isn’t convinced her town’s most infamous murder case was solved correctly, so she sets out to prove it for a school project. What starts as a simple investigation quickly becomes dangerous as Pip uncovers secrets someone is willing to kill to protect. With its true-crime format, podcast elements, and escalating tension, this series is gripping, smart, and impossible to put down. Just a quick note of caution: You may want to read this one first to make sure it's right for your young reader.

7. One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus

3 books in the series

First book: One of Us Is Lying

When five students walk into detention and only four come out alive, everyone becomes a suspect. Each of the remaining teens has something to hide, and as secrets unravel, the truth becomes more complicated—and more dangerous. With multiple perspectives and nonstop twists, this series is perfect for readers who love high-stakes, character-driven mysteries. Here again, though, these may be more appropriate for slightly older readers.

8. The Agathas by Kathleen Glasgow & Liz Lawson

2 books in the series

First book: The Agathas

Inspired by Agatha Christie herself, this clever series follows two unlikely teen investigators who team up to solve a murder in their small town. Using classic mystery techniques (and plenty of Christie references), they uncover hidden connections and long-buried secrets. With humor, heart, and sharp plotting, this series feels both fresh and delightfully old-school.

Mysteries Perfect for All Ages

YA mystery series offer the perfect blend of suspense, character growth, and puzzle-solving, making them ideal for young readers and adults alike. Whether it’s Nancy Drew navigating modern-day danger, a teen heiress solving riddles in a mansion, or a determined student reopening a cold case, these stories capture the thrill of uncovering the truth. So, if you’re building a reading list for mystery-loving teens (or just looking for your next addictive cozy series), any of these will keep the reader guessing until the very last page.

Which one of these series has piqued your interest? Comment below to let us know what you think.

This post contains affiliate links embedded throughout. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.