IN THE BLOOD, by April Henry, Christy Ottaviano Books, May 12, 2026, Hardcover, $19.99 (young adult)
An adopted teen takes a DNA test to find her biological parents and unknowingly puts herself in the crosshairs of a serial killer in In the Blood, by April Henry.
Adopted as a newborn, Tessa has always wondered who her biological parents are. After turning eighteen, she takes a DNA test in hopes of finding the answers. With best friend El and lab partner Victor, Tessa uses the results to start building her family tree. But they find more dead ends than answers. Her biological mother, who was raised in a religious cult, has cut all ties with her controlling family. And her biological father remains a complete mystery, at least until the police show up. For fifteen years, they’ve been trying to identify a serial killer known as the Portland Phantom. Tessa may be the link they’ve been waiting for. —Synopsis provided by Christy Ottavino Books
In the Blood is a quick-moving YA thriller that explores the age-old question, nature vs. nurture.
The story unfolds from the alternating viewpoints of Tessa, the serial killer, and a member of the police task force trying to solve the murders. Tessa is the reluctant protagonist, hoping to learn more about her birth parents but not wanting to hurt her adoptive ones. The killer is clever and creepy, and the police officer is determined to make a difference.
These three narratives give readers a comprehensive view of all the moving parts, but it also provides enough information to solve it, too. It’s not a big enough problem to keep readers from finishing the novel, but it does take away some of the suspense.
Author April Henry’s quickly sets the tone from the start and creates characters you want to follow to the end.
In the Blood is a fast mystery, perfect for an afternoon or summer weekend read.
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