Ava & Carol Detective Agency

The Ava and Carol Detective Agency series gives middle-grade readers a Nancy Drew alternative with a modern sensibility—two twelve-year-old best friends, a light touch of humor, and mysteries that range from local (a stolen show dog named Mr. Binxley) to international settings. Kirkus Reviews noted the series' chapter-name humor, fondness for puns, and the affectionate banter between Ava and Carol that keeps even high-stakes plots fun to read. The strong female friendship at the center gives it a distinct identity in a crowded mystery genre. The honest caveat is that quality can vary across installments, and some pacing issues have been noted as the series scales up its ambitions. For eight-to-twelve-year-old readers who love mysteries and solid friendships, this is a reliable series bet.