7 Must-Read YA Mysteries Featuring Black Protagonists

YA mystery has been evolving, bringing forward voices and stories that reflect a broader spectrum of experience. For far too long, missing girls of color have been underrepresented in both media and fiction. Today, more authors are centering Black protagonists in page-turning mysteries that balance suspense with truth. Start with these seven standout reads.

1. They Never Came Home by Corey L. Johnson

Set in Ripley, Tennessee, this atmospheric thriller follows Malik Thompson as he searches for his cousin Jamila and uncovers secrets the town would rather keep buried. It's a powerful mix of suspense, community, and resilience. Read it on Amazon.

2. The Jump by Brittney Morris

A brilliant mystery with a sci-fi twist, The Jump follows teens navigating an alternate reality scavenger hunt to stop a conspiracy. It asks urgent questions about technology, race, and agency.

3. City of Saints & Thieves by Natalie C. Anderson

In this gritty, fast-paced thriller set in Kenya, Tina seeks revenge after her mother's death but stumbles into a web of corruption and secrets that challenge everything she believes.

4. The Shadow Sister by Lily Meade

When her sister disappears, Casey must confront haunting family secrets. This novel blends mystery with magical realism, capturing both the supernatural and the very real stakes of survival.

5. Good as Gold by Candace Buford

A page-turning drama with high school politics and hidden truths, this mystery spotlights ambition, secrets, and the lengths teens will go to protect their reputations.

6. The Forest of Stolen Girls by June Hur

Though set in 15th-century Korea, Hur's novel resonates across cultures. Two sisters investigate the disappearance of young girls in their village, blending historical fiction with urgent mystery.

7. Wings of Ebony by J. Elle

This fantasy-infused mystery follows Rue as she uncovers the truth about her lineage and her community. Its questions about loyalty, justice, and identity make it an essential addition to any TBR.

Closing Thoughts

These stories remind us that suspense and representation go hand in hand. For readers craving gripping mysteries with Black protagonists, there's never been a better time to explore.

Looking for more Southern suspense? Don't miss The Grass Is Always Greener, a novel steeped in family secrets and resilience. More titles live on my Books page.