The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Reviewed by Hope M.
Grade 11

Do you enjoy puzzles? Riddles? Codes? Twists? Secrets? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then The Inheritance Games will definitely be a novel you’ll want to try out! Jennifer Lynn Barnes’ newest creation includes all of the elements mentioned above, as well as romance, humor, danger, and an intricate plot that will keep you in suspense all the way until the end of the story (and even after).

Avery Grambs doesn’t realize how dramatically her life will change when she heads to the principal’s office of her high school. On an ordinary day, she is visited by a strange boy, Grayson Hawthorne, who informs her that her presence is mandatory for the reading of his grandfather’s will. Avery has no recollection of ever coming into contact with the deceased multibillionaire, so no one understands why he bequeaths her with essentially his entire fortune. However, there is a catch: She must live in his expansive mansion for a year, and she does not have the power to kick out the family who already inhabits Hawthorne House--the family who just disinherited almost all of Tobias Hawthorne’s wealth. When Avery realizes she was left with clues that will hopefully lead to answers, she embarks on a journey to solve the final puzzle her benefactor left behind.

Every character that Barnes introduced played a major role in the story, from the late Tobias Hawthorne to the homeless man Avery played chess with at the park. The setting was largely at Hawthorne House, but the hundreds of rooms and passageways created a place that will constantly make you wonder what will be discovered next. The plot was woven together so complexly; you’ll question how a specific detail fits in the story at all, but once it’s explained, it makes perfect sense! When reading the novel, I felt like I was a part of it, involved in the narrative and wanting to solve the mysteries with the same amount of determination as the characters. And I think those stories, the ones that make us feel like we’re in them, are truly the best ones.

I would recommend this book to anyone who loves staying up late at night reading because you have to know what’s coming next. The author’s style will leave you guessing constantly, with all the twists and turns she adds to every chapter. Barnes put a lot of creativity into producing this masterpiece, and I think young adults will realize that as they read. It’s been a while since I’ve been this excited about a novel, so you should definitely give it a try. I have a feeling it won’t disappoint!