Ever feel like you're living in two different worlds? Well, these YA books with dual timelines will make you feel right at home. From haunting historical events to modern-day dilemmas, here are some of the best YA books with dual timelines. These stories have it all—unexpected revelations, complex characters, and intricate plots that bridge time periods in exciting ways!
Truly Devious by Maureen Johnson
Part mystery, part boarding school drama, the book alternates between the present day, where Stevie Bell, a true-crime enthusiast, investigates a cold case at an elite boarding school, and the past, where the original mystery unfolds. As Stevie works to solve the case, a new crime shakes the campus, pulling her into a fresh and chilling mystery.
Second Chance Summer by Morgan Matson
A summer at her family’s old lake house forces a girl to confront painful memories, rekindle old friendships, and reconnect with her first love. With her father’s devastating diagnosis looming, she learns the importance of second chances and cherishing the time she has left. The book navigates between Taylor’s past summer filled with first love and family tensions, and the present, where she’s trying to reconnect with the people she once lost touch with.
Cool for the Summer by Dahlia Adler
As Lara navigates her senior year and a blossoming relationship with the perfect guy, she is unexpectedly confronted by a past summer romance with a girl named Jasmine. Torn between the life she thought she wanted and the feelings she can't ignore, Lara embarks on a journey of self-discovery and love. The book shifts between the present and flashbacks to her summer adventures.
Going Bicoastal by Dahlia Adler
In this unique take on the sliding doors concept, Natalya’s story splits into two possible timelines: staying in NYC to pursue her crush on a girl or heading to LA to reconnect with her estranged mom and meet an unexpected guy. Both paths explore love, family, and self-discovery, showing that there’s more than one way to find happily ever after.
Furyborn by Claire Legrand
Spanning centuries, this epic fantasy follows two powerful young women: one who must endure deadly trials to prove she’s a prophesied queen and another who uncovers a terrifying truth while searching for her missing mother. As their stories intertwine across time, their choices will shape the fate of their world.
Sadie by Courtney Summers
A teen girl sets out searching for her sister’s killer, leaving behind a trail of clues that sparks a true-crime podcast. The book alternates between Sadie’s intense pursuit of justice and a podcast that explores her story. It’s a raw, heart-wrenching story of loss, vengeance, and the search for justice.
Death at Morning House by Maureen Johnson
After a disastrous date earns her the reputation of an accidental arsonist, Marlowe takes a summer job as a tour guide on a mysterious island with a dark history. The story alternates between Marlowe's present-day hunt to uncover the mansion's secrets and the past where a chilling murder unfolded.
All My Rage by Sabaa Tahir
The book alternates between the perspectives of two Pakistani-American teenagers and the life of one of their mothers decades earlier. It’s a beautifully written, emotionally charged story of trauma, resilience, and the bonds that connect us.
The Bone Witch by Rin Chupeco
After accidentally resurrecting her brother, Tea discovers her dangerous necromantic powers, marking her as a feared bone witch. This gothic fantasy alternates between the past, where Tea discovers and trains her dark powers, and the present, where she’s a powerful necromancer plotting her revenge.
Our Crooked Hearts by Melissa Albert
A witchy, eerie tale perfect for fans of dark magic, the book follows Ivy in the present and her mother as a teenager. As supernatural forces close in, Ivy must confront the legacy of her family's dark history and the truths hidden in her own memories.
Whether you’re craving heartache, mystery, or magic, these YA books with dual timelines offer stories that will keep you hooked from start to finish!