4.75/5 Stars
The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes is an addictive Young Adult mystery series that follows main character Avery Grambs through classic elements of treasure hunts, family secrets, and the intricate web of puzzles.
Avery Grambs, a struggling high school student, unexpectedly finds herself inheriting the extensive fortune of the solitary billionaire Tobias Hawthorne. However, Avery has no ties to the Hawthorne family nor does she have any knowledge of how she came to be a recipient of this fortune. As she sets out to claim this inheritance, to do so she must solve a series of puzzles and navigate a labyrinth of secrets left behind by Tobias. But there’s a catch. She’s not the only one competing for the Hawthorne fortune.
The Hawthorne family, including Tobias’s four grandsons, are each respectively in the running to inherit the fortune, and they’re none too pleased with Avery’s sudden threatening appearance. As Avery delves deeper into the mystery, she uncovers dangerous secrets and builds relationships with the Hawthorne family members, particularly the mysterious grandsons, who each have their own hidden motivations.
Avery is a likable and relatable protagonist. She’s smart, resourceful, and practical. These qualities make her easy to root for as the protagonist navigates a world of wealth and privilege that’s foreign to her. The character dynamics within the Hawthorne family are intriguing, particularly with the grandsons, as each of the brothers has a distinct personality and varying levels of trustworthiness. Their interactions with Avery create tension, romance, and plenty of emotional highs and lows.
Barnes also touches on themes of identity and belonging throughout the book. Avery struggles with the realization that although she’s not really part of the Hawthorne family, she’s tied to the family through this inheritance.
The Inheritance Games is a page-turner with its engaging and easy flow. The pacing is well-balanced, with just the right amount of tension and action to keep you invested, while still allowing for moments of character development and reflection. The book is packed with clever twists, and Barnes skillfully drops hints and red herrings that keep readers guessing.
For the first book in its series, the plot is surprisingly gripping, the characters are compelling, and the mystery at the heart of the story will keep readers on the edge of their seats. With its intricate puzzles, unexpected twists, and an ending that leaves you craving more for what is to follow, this book is a standout in the YA genre.
For those who love One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus, The Inheritance Games is a must-read.
