The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
The Inheritance Games Series #1
4.5 /5 Stars
376 Pages
Originally Published in 2020
Finished Reading on May 24, 2024
As a lifelong puzzle lover and caffeine enthusiast, The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes felt like it was made for me. This book combines the thrill of a treasure hunt with the tangled webs of family drama – and trust me, its just as delicious as your favorite latte on a rainy morning.
“Everything’s a game, Avery Grambs. The only thing we get to decide in this life is if we play to win.”
What I Loved
From the moment I met Avery, a sharp-witted teenager who suddenly inherits billions from a mysterious benefactor, I was hooked. The Hawthorne mansion is a character in its own right, full of secret passages, riddles, and the kind of intrigue that keeps you turning pages late into the night.
The brothers – Grayson, Jameson, Xander, and Nash – add even more complexity to the story. They’re each uniquely crafted, with personalities that draw you in (even if they frustrate you at times). Watching Avery navigate her new life while piecing together the mystery was an absolute joy.
“I’m not a player in their game. I’m a piece on the board.”
What I Didn’t Love
While I adored the twists and turns, there were moments where the pacing felt uneven. Some of the emotional beats between Avery and the brothers didn’t land as strongly as I hoped, and the romance subplot felt like it took a backseat to the puzzles. But honestly? They mystery was so captivating that more than made up for any minor flaws.
“I was nobody. I was a pawn. I was a girl with a plan. And I was dangerous.”
Final Thoughts
At its heart, The Inheritance Games is a story about resilience, self-discovery, and the power of intelligence and grit. Avery is thrust into a world where money equals power, yet she relies on her own wits to survive. The book explores how privilege and wealth shape people differently and examines the bonds of family – biological or found.
This book is for:
- Fans of Knives Out or The Westing Game
- Readers who enjoy fast-paced twisty YA thrillers
- Anyone who loves intricate puzzles with a side of romance and drama
I flew through this book in record time, and I’d gladly dive back into the Hawthorne mansion to unravel more mysteries. If you’re in the mood for a clever, page-turning thriller that keeps you guessing, this one’s for you.
Its 4.5/5 stars from me!
If you suddenly inherited a fortune but had to solve puzzles and face dangerous rivals, would you accept the challenge?