The Ruby in the Smoke

Reach for this book when your teenager is navigating the complexities of grief and searching for a sense of autonomy in an adult world. It is an ideal choice for the child who feels like an outsider or who is struggling to find their voice after a significant family upheaval. This Victorian mystery follows sixteen-year-old Sally Lockhart as she investigates her father's mysterious death, leading her through the gritty streets of 1870s London. Beyond the suspenseful plot, the story explores themes of resilience, financial independence, and the courage to face dark truths. While the setting is historical, the emotional journey of a young woman reclaiming her identity is timeless. It is appropriate for mature middle schoolers and high schoolers who can handle themes of systemic corruption and the historical realities of the opium trade. Parents will appreciate how the book models a girl's transition from a protected child to a self-sufficient, sharp-witted investigator.