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A few weeks ago, I made a list of the best crime fiction for adults. I guess my twisted brain had so much fun reminiscing about fictional arson and murder that I decided to make a second list. This one focuses on books for teens, tweens, and young adults. Bring on crime novels, part 2!
I love reading about crime. Characters with loose morals are fascinating, and criminals add tons of tension to a narrative. Will they get caught? Will they commit another crime? Are they even guilty of the crime everyone thinks they committed? I want to know!
Even though I enjoy crime fiction, I’m super picky about it. I feel ambivalent about modern thrillers. I hate most detective stories. I’d rather eat disgusting kale than read a traditional courtroom drama. I like a very specific type of crime fiction. I’d call it “literary crime.” It has to be atmospheric with complicated characters and a surprising plot. A well-developed setting doesn’t hurt either.
Here are 15 young adult fiction books that fit my definition of a compelling novel about crime.
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