The Inheritance Games Books in Order: Read the Series Like a True Puzzle Prodigy

Whenever I stumble upon a new mystery series, I like to know exactly where to start, because nothing is worse than accidentally spoiling a big reveal. That’s exactly how I felt when I first discovered Jennifer Lynn Barnes’ The Inheritance Games series. With its mix of puzzles, high-stakes drama, and delicious family secrets, it’s the kind of story you really want to experience in the right sequence.

So, if you’ve been wondering about the correct reading order for The Inheritance Games books, here’s the full list, no confusion, no guesswork.

Order to Read The Inheritance Games Books

1. The Inheritance Games (2020)
2. The Hawthorne Legacy (2021)
3. The Final Gambit (2022)
4. The Brothers Hawthorne (2023)
5. The Grandest Game (Expected 2024)

Meet Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Jennifer Lynn Barnes isn’t new to the YA scene, she’s been publishing for years and has a talent for weaving sharp mysteries with addictive characters. She holds a PhD in psychology and cognitive science, which might explain why her plots are so layered with clever games, riddles, and human behavior insights.

She’s also written other popular series like The Naturals, which leans more into FBI profiling, and Raised by Wolves, a paranormal saga. But The Inheritance Games is easily her breakout hit, captivating not just teens but adult readers who love a Knives Out-style mystery.

Why This Series Feels Like Knives Out Meets Gossip Girl

Part of the magic of The Inheritance Games lies in its vibe. Imagine suddenly inheriting billions from a man you’ve never met, only to be forced to live in a sprawling mansion full of secret passages, hidden codes, and suspicious family members. That’s Avery Grambs’ life.

• High-stakes inheritance: Avery has to outsmart the Hawthorne family, who expected to inherit everything.
• Romantic tension: The four Hawthorne brothers add layers of intrigue, rivalry, and slow-burn dynamics.
• Puzzles & secrets: Barnes keeps readers guessing with riddles, games, and shocking twists.

It’s YA mystery at its most binge-worthy, the kind of series you finish in a weekend and then immediately push on your friends.

Spin-offs and Companion Books

After finishing the main trilogy, you might wonder: do the extra books really matter? The answer is yes, especially if you’ve grown attached to the Hawthornes.

• The Brothers Hawthorne zooms in on Jameson and Grayson, giving each their own adventure.
• The Grandest Game promises to bring the puzzles back with even higher stakes, expanding the world beyond the original trilogy.

These additions aren’t required to enjoy the main story, but they’re like bonus rounds, more mysteries, more drama, and more Hawthorne family secrets.

FAQs

1. Can I read The Inheritance Games books out of order?
Not recommended. The trilogy especially is tightly connected, with cliffhangers and continuing storylines. Start at book one.

2. Do I need to read the spin-offs to understand the main series?
No, the trilogy is complete on its own. But if you love the Hawthornes (and you probably will), the spin-offs add richer depth.

3. Are The Inheritance Games books appropriate for all ages?
They’re written for young adults, but the themes, family drama, romance, and puzzles, appeal widely. Content-wise, they’re clean compared to many YA thrillers.

Final Verdict

Reading The Inheritance Games in order is absolutely worth it. The experience builds with each book, and Jennifer Lynn Barnes masterfully crafts cliffhangers that make you desperate for the next installment. Whether you’re in it for the mystery, the puzzles, or the character drama, this series delivers. And once you’re hooked, the companion novels are the perfect way to stay in the Hawthorne world a little longer.