Dead Time

Reach for this book when your teen is struggling with the upheaval of a blended family or feels like adults are hiding the truth about the past. Rose is a relatable protagonist navigating the awkwardness of a new stepbrother and the unsettling mystery of her mother's disappearance five years prior. This contemporary mystery addresses the emotional weight of unresolved grief and the tension of building new domestic bonds while still searching for answers. It is an ideal pick for ages 12 to 16, offering a safe space to explore themes of trust, resilience, and the complicated nature of family secrets without being overly graphic.