Best Fantasy & Supernatural Mysteries & Thrillers Books for Teens & Young Adults of 2026

An instant #1 National Bestseller, Lightlark by Alex Aster is the first book in The Lightlark Saga series. The book is a thrilling YA fantasy novel that takes readers on a journey to the Centennial, a deadly game that only the rulers of six realms are invited to play. With unique curses and rulers with something to hide, the Centennial offers the chance to break the curses that have plagued their realms for centuries. Filled with deception, romance, and twists, Lightlark is a must-read for fans of Marie Lu, Marissa Meyer, and Leigh Bardugo. Overall, a gorgeously lush and cinematic fantasy that readers won't want to put down.

Bloodmarked (2) (The Legendborn Cycle) is a captivating contemporary fantasy book for teens and young adults. Tracy Deonn's sequel to Legendborn is a perfect blend of romance, adventure, and magic, making it ideal for fans of Cassandra Clare and Margaret Rogerson. Bree is now a Medium, Bloodcrafter, and Scion with newfound power, but she is also in danger as the ancient war between demons and the Order intensifies. Bree's fight to save Nick and her friends is filled with unpredictable powers and enemies, making the book a page-turner. Tracy Deonn's writing is refreshing and engaging. Overall, Bloodmarked (2) (The Legendborn Cycle) is a must-read for all fantasy lovers.

The Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard is a thrilling epic fantasy that takes readers on a journey of power, betrayal, and rebellion. Set in a world where blood determines social status, Mare Barrow, a Red, discovers she has a superhuman ability and is forced to play the role of a lost Silver princess. As she delves deeper into the Silver world, Mare risks everything to help the Scarlet Guard, a growing Red rebellion. With a gasp-worthy twist and engaging characters, this inventive and character-driven novel is an unexpected and worthy addition to any genre fan's reading list.

The Weight of Blood by Tiffany D. Jackson is a thought-provoking YA novel that delves into the issue of racism in America. The story follows Madison Washington, a biracial teenager who has been passing for white her entire life. When her school decides to host its first integrated prom, Madison finds herself caught in the middle of racial tensions and bullying. The novel expertly explores internalized and externalized anti-Blackness and the horrors that result from it. Jackson's writing is bone-chilling, and the book is a powerful commentary on the structural racism still present in society. Overall, The Weight of Blood is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the impact of racism on young people today.

The His Dark Materials 3-Book Paperback Boxed Set includes The Golden Compass, The Subtle Knife, and The Amber Spyglass, which tell the story of Lyra and Will on their dangerous journey through otherworlds, encountering witches, armored bears, fallen angels, and more. Phillip Pullman’s captivating trilogy has won acclaim and graced bestseller lists for over twenty years. The books will have readers questioning their world and wondering what lies beyond. The set is perfect for fans or newcomers to this modern fantasy classic series. Overall, the series is a literary rollercoaster ride that combines war, politics, magic, science, individual lives, and cosmic destinies into a narrative of tremendous pace, making it a must-read for epic fantasy fans.

Nightbane (The Lightlark Saga Book 2) is the thrilling follow-up to Alex Aster’s bestselling novel, Lightlark. Isla Crown, now crowned leader of two separate realms, finds herself struggling with a crushing betrayal and the weight of her responsibilities. As danger approaches, Isla must balance her duty to her people with her own desires. Alex Aster’s intricate world-building and exploration of Isla’s past make this an exciting addition to the series. This book is a must-read for fans of thrillers and suspense in the young adult genre.

Michael Vey 8: The Parasite is the latest addition to the popular young adult series by Richard Paul Evans. The electrifying eighth installment follows Michael and the Electroclan as they face a new, more dangerous threat than ever before. As they try to return to a normal life, they quickly learn that it's not as easy as they thought it would be. Fans of the series will be thrilled with the return of their favorite electric superheroes. Overall, the book is an action-packed adventure that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.

The Sleep Experiment is a spine-chilling psychological thriller, written by Jeremy Bates. The book tells the story of a psychology professor, Dr. Roy Wallis, who attempts to recreate a Soviet experiment from the Cold War era, which required participants to stay awake for fourteen days while under the influence of a powerful stimulant gas. However, the experiment takes a terrifying turn, and the participants begin to exhibit signs of madness, murder, and self-mutilation. Bates' writing style, reminiscent of Stephen King, keeps readers on the edge of their seat. Overall, this book is a must-read for fans of horror and psychological thrillers.

Six of Crows is a thrilling fantasy action and adventure book for teens and young adults. Leigh Bardugo, the #1 bestselling author, takes readers on a journey with Kaz Brekker and his crew of dangerous outcasts to pull off a deadly heist in the bustling hub of international trade, Ketterdam. The characters are complex, and their relationships are compelling, making the story an unforgettable tale about the opportunity and adventure of a lifetime. The book is a must-read for those who love action-packed stories with intricate world-building and unique characters.