Families who loved Diabolical by Cynthia Leitich Smith often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your teenager is grappling with themes of past mistakes, the weight of guilt, or the desire for a fresh start. It is particularly resonant for young adults who feel they have to outrun a reputation or earn their way back into a social circle. The story follows a diverse group of supernatural beings, including a fallen angel and an ex-vampire princess, as they navigate the blurry lines between heaven, hell, and the mortal world to save a friend. While the setting is fantastical, the emotional core is deeply grounded in the process of redemption and the power of loyalty. Parents should be aware that this is a high-stakes finale to a series, featuring gothic horror elements, intense action, and explorations of the afterlife. It is a sophisticated pick for teens who enjoy complex moral dilemmas and stories where characters must take accountability for their actions to find peace.