Best Nancy Drew Books in 2024: Top 6 Reviews

Nancy Drew books are full of adventure. These mysteries keep you guessing and are perfect for curious minds.

The Mystery at Lilac Inn coverThe Clue in the Diary coverThe Moonstone Castle Mystery cover

Are you on the lookout for a thrilling, page-turning series? Meet ‘Nancy Drew Books,’ the timeless tales of an amateur sleuth. Picking our top six list was no easy task – we love books that pack suspense, clever mysteries, and unforgettable adventures. Each story brings Nancy Drew’s detective magic to life. Stay tuned as we share our favorite heart-thumping titles that made the cut.

On this list:

6 The Mystery at Lilac Inn by Carolyn Keene

The Mystery at Lilac Inn cover

  • Genre: Children’s Mystery
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1930
  • Pages: 210

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We chose ‘The Mystery at Lilac Inn’ because it offers a thrilling mystery and classic detective adventure like ‘The Secret of the Old Clock’, but with its unique twists and surprises. It’s a delightful blend of suspense and clever problem-solving.

5 The Clue in the Diary by Carolyn Keene

The Clue in the Diary cover

  • Genre: Children’s Mystery
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle
  • Year released: 1932
  • Pages: 180

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Who doesn’t love a good diary scandal? As kids, we always dreamt of finding a hidden diary, solving mysteries like Nancy.

4 The Moonstone Castle Mystery by Carolyn Keene

The Moonstone Castle Mystery cover

  • Genre: Children’s Mystery
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle
  • Year released: 1963
  • Pages: 185

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A mix of castles and mysteries. We loved playing detectives with our friends after reading this one. Such childhood fun!

3 The Secret of Red Gate Farm by Carolyn Keene

The Secret of Red Gate Farm cover

  • Genre: Children’s Mystery
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle
  • Year released: 1931
  • Pages: 200

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A journey into the unknown with a twisty plot. Perfect for summer reading by the pool, just like we did last summer.

2 The Clue of the Tapping Heels by Carolyn Keene

The Clue of the Tapping Heels cover

  • Genre: Children’s Mystery
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle
  • Year released: 1939
  • Pages: 210

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The title itself is full of intrigue. The tapping sound is as haunting as it is mysterious, and we couldn’t put it down.

1 The Hidden Staircase by Carolyn Keene

The Hidden Staircase cover

  • Genre: Children’s Mystery
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle
  • Year released: 1930
  • Pages: 175

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We crown this as the best of the ‘nancy drew books’ because it embodies all the series offers. It rolls out suspense, adventure, and that teen detective magic. Nancy, facing strange disappearances and secret staircases, gets our hearts racing faster than a caffeinated squirrel. It reminds us of the many sleepovers where we stayed up late, flashlight in hand, pretending to be detectives ourselves. With its intriguing plot and surprise twists, it’s perfect for readers young and old. Nancy’s bravery and wit shine, making this book the perfect starting point for any reader wanting to plunge into the world of sleuthing. It’s no wonder this remains a fan favorite!

Steve Peterson Cartoonified
Steve Peterson

Hi there! I'm Steve Peterson, a passionate reading enthusiast who loves nothing more than getting lost in a good book. My love for literature spans across genres, from thrilling mysteries and gripping fantasy to thought-provoking non-fiction.

I hope my reviews help you find the perfect next book to dive into!