Book Highlight YA Fiction

February 12, 2025

Seven Secrets to Unravel!

The Secrets Series - YA Fiction

Seven books, seven authors, and seven mysteries to unravel. The Secrets series from Orca Books immediately caught my attention with its intriguing premise and an impressive lineup of contemporary YA authors. Set in June 1964, the series follows seven teenage orphans from Hope, Ontario, whose lives are upended when their orphanage burns down. With only a small amount of money from their compassionate director and a single clue to their past—a medical certificate, a Star of David, a tailored coat with the initials E.B., and more—each girl embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about her identity.

While their family histories drive the narrative, the authors also delve into weighty themes like war, the Holocaust, medical experimentation, and race relations, adding depth and complexity to each story.

Shattered Glass by Teresa Toten

Toni moves to Toronto, becomes involved in the local club and music scene, and discovers the truth behind the nightmares of fire and burn marks she’s had all her life.

My Life Before Me by Norah McClintock

Aspiring reporter Cady travels to Orrenstown, Indiana where she becomes embroiled in a web of politics, corruption and racial tensions.

A Big Dose of Lucky by Marthe Jocelyn

Malou investigates her mixed race heritage in Parry Sound, Ontario, and discovers a much larger family than she expected. This book delves into the history behind a particular medical procedure and branch of scientific research, which I found fascinating.

Stones on a Grave by Kathy Kacer

Sara’s newly discovered Jewish heritage leads her to Germany where she learns the truth behind her mother’s life and her father’s identity.

Small Bones by Vicki Grant

A man’s coat leads Dot to a lakeside resort in rural Ontario, where she and a charming reporter investigate the local legend of a baby who disappeared seventeen years ago. PTSD and the war emerge as themes in the investigation.

Innocent by Eric Walters

Betty/Lizzy takes a job as a maid in Kingston, Ontario and investigates her mother’s murder. Her father was convicted of the crime, but protests his innocence, and a cute policeman helps her investigate.

The Unquiet Past by Kelley Armstrong

Tess travels to a Quebec town and unearths the disturbing history of a mental health facility. A mysterious boy has his own reasons for helping her find the truth.

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