Teen Reads
October 2026
Recent Releases
Anger Is Only a Shadow by Elizabeth Acevedo
Anger Is Only a Shadow
by Elizabeth Acevedo

As Liliana awaits trial for her latest impulsive mistake, she notices her brother acting unusually. Visiting him while he’s away at college would violate the terms of her release, but she may be his only hope. This nuanced verse novel explores the complex realities of juvenile detention and mental illness.
Monster, Monarch, Maiden by Rae Carson
Monster, Monarch, Maiden
by Rae Carson

Bria is rescued by the secretive Titus, saving her from a life of slavery. Now pledged to him as a shield maiden, Bria seeks to understand his mysterious quest, the nature of her own magical gift, and her burgeoning feeling for him. Read-alike: Rachel Greenlaw’s Compass and Blade.
Hawk & Sparrow by Ayana Gray
Hawk & Sparrow
by Ayana Gray

Journalist Vesper attended the art museum’s exhibition to interview a famed inventor. Instead, she found him dead. Now she’s posing as a couple with sorcerer Maximilian, the main suspect, in order to infiltrate high society and catch the killer. This atmospheric mystery features a Victorian setting sprinkled with magic.
Traitors' Nest by Frances Hardinge
Traitors' Nest
by Frances Hardinge

Although the godlike Players move castles around the world as they play the Great Game, Burr never thought the castle in his farming village would disappear. Then it does, sending Burr, his sisters, and his friends on a great adventure to protect their community. Read-alikes: Rebecca Ross’ Divine Rivals; Jamie Pacton’s The Hyacinth Labyrinth.
Your Boyfriend Needs an Exorcist by Justine Pucella Winans
Your Boyfriend Needs an Exorcist
by Justine Pucella Winans

After dying in a car accident, Schuyler became an evil spirit, haunting her old house and crushing on Wren, who lives there. When Schuyler accidentally possesses Wren’s boyfriend, she’s torn: escape his body or enjoy the ride? This horror comedy weaves moments of emotional growth into its gory narrative.
Horror Round-Up
May the Dead Keep You by Jill Baguchinsky
May the Dead Keep You
by Jill Baguchinsky

There's nowhere Catie East would rather be than the redwood forest that surrounds her family's home, the Heights. But when a scientist and his son move into the estate's cottage, the boy catches Catie's eye. And when a dead woodpecker miraculously comes back to life in his precious hands ... he captures her heart. But necromancy isn't the only strange thing happening in the Heights.
Dead Girls Don't Dream by Nino Cipri
Dead Girls Don't Dream
by Nino Cipri

When seventeen-year-old Riley is murdered in an occult ritual, the witch's daughter Madelyn resurrects her in an attempt to break the cycle of violence and escape the horrors of Voynich Woods.
The Dead of Summer (Book 1) by Ryan La Sala
The Dead of Summer
by Ryan La Sala

Returning to his island home after a year away, Ollie worries about the friendships weakened by his absence. Then a storm hits, spreading a zombie-like plague possibly linked to an old chemical spill, and Ollie needs his found family more than ever. This fast-paced novel blends body horror with ecological horror.
These Vengeful Wishes by Vanessa Montalban
These Vengeful Wishes
by Vanessa Montalban

Back in her mother’s hometown, Ceci encounters the legend of a vengeful female spirit called La Cegua. La Cegua seems linked to everything: Ceci’s artistic obsessions, the town’s cursed founders, and her own mother’s secret history. 
The Summer I Ate the Rich by Maika Moulite
The Summer I Ate the Rich
by Maika Moulite and Maritza Moulite

Money is tighter than ever since Brielle’s mother lost her job working for one of Miami’s wealthiest families. Luckily for Brielle, she has her culinary skills -- and her powers as a zombie -- that she can put to use. This offbeat novel infuses a revenge tale with commentary on classism and racism.
Contact your librarian for more great books for age 14 and up!
Carrollton Public Library
1700 Keller Springs Road, Carrollton Texas 75006
4220 North Josey Lane, Carrollton Texas 75010