Teen reads

Sarah Pollok

OUTSIDE

by Sarah Ann Juckes (Penguin, $21)

If you've never seen the outside, how do you know you're on the inside? Despite being held captive in a small room, Ele knows there's more to the world; she just needs to get proof. Juckes' debut novel takes readers on a thrilling adventure as strong-willed yet optimistic Ele fights to reveal the truth. Though the abstract narration can be something of a hurdle, older readers who persevere will be inspired and challenged by Ele's resilience amid adversity, learning alongside her just how powerful stories can be. With a somewhat sinister undertone of captivity and violence, it's certainly one for mature bookworms.

TWO CAN KEEP A SECRET

by Karen McManus (Penguin, $21)

Ellery hasn't ever been to Echo Ridge but she's more than familiar with the small town in America. Her aunt disappeared there when she was 17, and the town became famous when a homecoming queen was murdered there.

Not the best place to move, especially to live with a grandmother you don't know. But

Ellery doesn't have much choice.

Cutting between two characters,

Ellery and

Malcolm, the novel has a slower pace than McManus' previous book, One of Us Is Lying, but the high school mystery still offers a thrilling tale that is well worth a read.

THE HAVEN

by Simon Lelic (Hachette $20)

When it comes to a good thriller, Simon Lelic doesn't mess around; from page one murder occurs and the adventure begins. Alone and on the run, protagonist Ollie Turner has nowhere to hide, until he finds a secret organisation hidden deep beneath the bustling city of London. Run by youth for youth, The Haven is a headquarters for justice, a sanctuary for kids and Ollie's new home. However, above ground, things are anything but safe. Lelic's first jump from adult thrillers to young adult fiction, The Haven is a dynamic and compelling read that audiences young and old will love.