If you love mystery, puzzles, and a dash of romance, The Inheritance Games series by Jennifer Lynn Barnes is a must-read! Packed with twists, high-stakes riddles, and a billionaire’s fortune up for grabs, this YA thriller keeps readers guessing until the very last page—all while keeping the content clean and age-appropriate.
About the Series
Avery Grambs is an ordinary girl trying to get through high school when she suddenly inherits a multi-billion-dollar fortune from Tobias Hawthorne, a man she’s never met. The catch? To claim the inheritance, she must live in Hawthorne House—a mansion full of secret passageways, hidden clues, and the four enigmatic Hawthorne grandsons, who are less than thrilled about her sudden fortune.
As Avery gets pulled into the Hawthorne family’s web of secrets, rivalries, and deadly games, she must uncover why Tobias left everything to her—and whether she can survive long enough to find out.
With a mix of Knives Out mystery, The Westing Game intelligence, and a light love triangle, this series is perfect for readers who enjoy fast-paced, mind-bending stories.
Clean Content & Age Recommendation
- Age Recommendation: 12+
- Spice Rating: 🌶️ (Very mild—flirtation, light romance, and kissing, but no explicit content)
- Language: Minimal and mild
- Violence: Some moments of suspense, mild danger, and threats, but nothing graphic
- Romance: A subtle love triangle with slow-burn chemistry
This series is perfect for younger YA readers or anyone who loves a good mystery without heavy romance or mature themes. While there’s romantic tension, it remains secondary to the mystery and family intrigue.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Puzzle-Lovers’ Dream: If you enjoy riddles, codes, and scavenger hunts, this book will keep you hooked.
- Light Love Triangle: Avery finds herself caught between two of the Hawthorne brothers, adding a touch of romance to the mystery.
- Wealth & Power Dynamics: The story explores themes of privilege, manipulation, and power struggles, adding depth beyond the mystery.
- Fast-Paced & Addictive: Short chapters, constant twists, and cliffhanger endings make this series hard to put down.
Final Thoughts
The Inheritance Games is a clever, thrilling, and completely binge-worthy YA mystery that will keep you on your toes. If you love books filled with puzzles, high-stakes drama, and a touch of romance, this series is a must-read!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5 – A gripping and clean YA mystery perfect for fans of Knives Out and One of Us Is Lying!
By: Leni Taylor
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