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You will be bound, dragon and human.
For fifteen-year-old Ryiah, the choice has always been easy. Become a mage and train in Combat, the most prestigious faction of magic.
Tracking monsters is my job—falling for one might get me killed.
You will be bound, dragon and human.
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WITCHES
Authors S - Z
At a Glance
(kidnapping, death of a parent, and mild violence)
AUTHOR V. E. SCHWAB
THE NEAR WITCH
ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY'S BEST YA OF THE DECADE NEW YORK TIMES bestseller
Brand new edition of Victoria Schwab's long out-of-print, stunning debut.
All-new deluxe edition of an out-of-print gem, containing in-universe short story "The Ash-Born Boy" and a never-before-seen introduction from V.E. Schwab.
The Near Witch is only an old story told to frighten children.
If the wind calls at night, you must not listen. The wind is lonely, and always looking for company.
There are no strangers in the town of Near.
These are the truths that Lexi has heard all her life.
But when an actual stranger, a boy who seems to fade like smoke, appears outside her home on the moor at night, she knows that at least one of these sayings is no longer true.
The next night, the children of Near start disappearing from their beds, and the mysterious boy falls under suspicion.
As the hunt for the children intensifies, so does Lexi's need to know about the witch that just might be more than a bedtime story, about the wind that seems to speak through the walls at night, and about the history of this nameless boy.
Part fairy tale, part love story, Victoria Schwab's debut novel is entirely original yet achingly familiar: a song you heard long ago, a whisper carried by the wind, and a dream you won't soon forget.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
V. E. Schwab’s The Near Witch is a captivating and atmospheric tale set in the mysterious town of Near, where strange events begin to unfold when a young girl, Lexi, investigates the disappearance of children in her village. The novel beautifully blends elements of folklore, mystery, and fantasy, drawing readers into a world of danger, secrets, and the supernatural. Schwab’s lyrical writing creates an immersive experience, perfect for readers who enjoy dark, magical stories with strong emotional depth. Themes of courage, family loyalty, and standing up against injustice are explored throughout the book, making it an inspiring read for both young adults and older readers alike. The book contains very minimal sexual content, focusing more on the suspenseful elements of the plot and the emotional development of the characters. The romance in The Near Witch is gentle and develops slowly, with no explicit scenes, making it appropriate for a wide range of readers. There is some mild violence, as the story deals with supernatural threats and the tensions within the town, but the narrative stays within the boundaries of what would be suitable for older teens. Overall, The Near Witch is a great choice for families looking for a thrilling, atmospheric novel that balances magical intrigue with relatable themes and minimal sexual content.
(romantic tension and occasional kissing, mild profanity, some supernatural peril and moderate violence)
AUTHOR INGRID SEYMOUR & KATIE FRENCH
FRESHMAN WITCH (BOOK 1)
Of course, magic is real. Everybody knows that.
Since it came out on the news that Supernaturals exist, I’ve heard they can do spells, shapeshift, live forever, you name it. Wonderful, right?
Whatever.
In my world—where I’m homeless and spend my time avoiding rats and meth heads—magic sounds like major BS.
But, when I’m accused of stealing and they’re about to arrest me, the item I took disappears from my hand as if by magic. WTF?
Just like that, the Supernatural Academy swoops in and recruits me. But I don’t belong there, and everyone else agrees, including, Rowan Underwood, this rich and annoyingly handsome warlock who has it in for me. He’s investigating the theft of magical artifacts, and he thinks I’m involved.
Seriously? I just got here.
But I can’t worry about that, not while dead kings try to drain my essence or a spell from these angry pixie minotaurs sends my hair follicles into overdrive until I look like Cousin It.
Yet, I can’t avoid Rowan, and while I learn enough magic to stay alive, I also need to keep myself from falling for a guy who’s clearly my worst decision ever.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Freshman Witch by Ingrid Seymour and Katie French can be a great choice for readers who enjoy young adult paranormal fantasy with a school setting, secret magic societies, and high-stakes action. The story follows a young witch navigating her first year at a magical university while uncovering dark secrets and managing a budding romance. The themes of self-discovery, belonging, and empowerment are central to the narrative, making it especially appealing to teen readers who appreciate magic mixed with real-life struggles. The romance is light and age-appropriate, centering on emotional connection and attraction without explicit sexual content. That said, parents might want to know that the book does include moments of supernatural violence, peril, and death, which could be intense for sensitive readers. There's also some mild language and references to darker magical elements like necromancy and curses. While the content is generally suitable for older teens, the suspenseful tone and occasional dark themes might not be ideal for younger or more cautious readers. Overall, it’s a fun and engaging read for fans of magical academies, as long as readers are comfortable with some spooky thrills and moments of danger.
(occasional f-word use, a slow burn romance but no sex, not too much violence, but there is danger and tension)
Editor's
Favorite
AUTHOR VERONICA SHADE
CURSE OF STONE (BOOK 1)
Supposedly, witches can’t kill. But Madison accidentally killed her boyfriend, and now a girl at her witch academy is dead, too.
Madison spent her life avoiding her magical abilities, but when she’s forced to use them to save her best friend from a deadly storm and accidentally kills her boyfriend as a result, she decides she needs to enroll at La Voisin School for Young Witches after all.
She knew starting a year later than her peers would come with its own struggles; she just never expected one of those struggles would be the impossible murder of a classmate. The school is spelled for safety, and witches can’t kill…so how did Giselle end up dead?
Only Giselle and her killer know, and only Madison can find out. Because now, the dead witch is haunting her. Crazy thing is, Giselle’s murder isn’t even the biggest secret this school has.
Just ask the statues.
Fans of Stephenie Meyers’ Twilight and Bella Forrest’s Harley Merlin series will devour Curse of Stone, book one of Veronica Shade’s Academy of the Damned.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Veronica Shade’s Curse of Stone and the series offer a compelling blend of fantasy, adventure, and magic that will captivate readers of all ages. Set in a world where stone curses hold the power to change destinies, the story follows a protagonist who must navigate complex magical systems and unravel ancient secrets. The narrative is full of twists and turns, with rich world-building and a well-paced plot that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end. The themes of friendship, bravery, and self-discovery are prominent, making it a great choice for readers who enjoy tales of personal growth and overcoming challenges. The engaging mix of action, magic, and heart will appeal to both teens and adults. In terms of content, Curse of Stone is suitable for a younger audience, with minimal sexual content. The romance is present but not central to the plot, and any romantic scenes are sweet and non-explicit, making it appropriate for teens and families. The focus is more on the adventure, magic, and the relationships between the characters, especially as they face trials and grow together. There are some intense moments involving danger and suspense, but the overall tone remains accessible and appropriate for older teens and young adults. With its exciting world and relatable themes, Curse of Stone is a great choice for those looking for a fantasy series that is both engaging and family-friendly.
(humor, adventure, and a sweet, slow burn romance)
AUTHORS K. M. SHEA
MAGIC FORGED
I'm one scrappy wizard.
As someone with barely a flicker of magic, I've spent my life being mocked and surviving fights with bullies. But when my parents die in an accident, and I find myself responsible for our whole wizard house and family, I know my usual tactics aren't going to cut it.
The situation veers from bad to catastrophic when my backstabbing cousin stages a coup and takes my family hostage.
I barely manage to flee, but the only supernatural willing to help me is Killian Drake--the most feared vampire in the region, and a far more deadly villain than the jerk threatening my family.
Is Killian sexy and charismatic? Heck yeah.
He's also so powerful that my flight or fight instincts kick in every time our eyes meet. And he's definitely using me as his personal magic detector in his feud against the local fae.
But Killian is also the first person to believe I might have more than just a scrap of magic. And if I can convince him to train me, I might get strong enough to free my family and get my house back.
I'm not sure what happens when a scrappy wizard is taught how to fight by a hall of deadly vampires, but I'm about to find out.
Magic Forged is the first book in the Hall of Blood and Mercy trilogy, which takes place in the Magiford Supernatural City universe and features vampires, wizards, fae, and werewolves! This trilogy is packed with humor, adventure, and a sweet, slow burn romance between a vertically challenged wizard and the most lethal vampire in town.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
K. M. Shea’s Magic Forged and the series present an exciting blend of magic, adventure, and self-discovery, making it a fantastic choice for readers who enjoy fast-paced fantasy with strong character development. Set in a world where magic is both a gift and a curse, the book follows a young woman discovering her hidden powers while trying to navigate a world full of danger and mystery. The plot weaves together suspense, action, and moments of humor, with a relatable heroine who grows through the trials she faces. The well-crafted world-building and plot twists keep readers engaged, while the themes of personal empowerment and teamwork resonate with both teens and adults alike. As for content, Magic Forged is suitable for a young adult audience. The book contains no explicit sexual content, and any romantic elements are light, with a focus on the characters’ evolving relationships rather than physical intimacy. The story focuses more on magical conflicts, character growth, and the heroine’s journey, making it a great choice for families or readers looking for a clean, entertaining fantasy series. There may be some intense action scenes involving danger and combat, but they are presented in a way that is appropriate for teens and older readers. Overall, Magic Forged offers an enjoyable, wholesome adventure for readers of various ages.
(light kissing, some mild swearing, minimal magical conflict violence)
AUTHORS ZOE SHAE
SPELL YA LATER (BOOK 1)
A world of magic, love, and independence awaits. All she needs to do is take one step forward and discover what has been hers all along.
Hazel Hollis has spent her life doing exactly what is expected of her. Banned from using her magic after the tragic death of her father, Hazel does everything she can to ensure her sister Laura can have a normal life. Even if it means sacrificing any semblance of a life for herself.
But no more. In an explosive fight with her mother, Hazel finally takes hold of her life and moves out. And into the apartment above the magic shop her grandmother owns. What will Hazel discover about herself? Her family? Her mother? The man who’s eyes she’s been drawing for the past few months but never met?
Noah Rogers, the man with the literal electric touch, who treats Hazel with love she’s never known. The owner of the eyes. And a person who deserves honesty. Honesty Hazel may not ever be able to give him.
With the help of a little bit of magic, and a little bit of love, will Hazel finally find herself? Or will she find a secret so powerful it could destroy her entire family?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Spell Ya Later by Zoe Shae could be a fun and lighthearted read for fans of cozy paranormal romance. The story blends magic, mystery, and a touch of romance, following the quirky Pruitt witches as they navigate family drama and supernatural hijinks. With its humorous tone and charming characters, it’s a great option for readers who enjoy witchy themes without heavy darkness or graphic violence. The romantic content is present but fairly mild—mostly consisting of flirtation, kissing, and a few sensual moments that stop short of explicit detail, making it a relatively tame choice for adult readers who prefer clean or semi-clean romance. However, families looking for books appropriate for younger readers may want to approach with caution. While the violence is minimal and magical in nature, there are some adult themes, including implied intimacy and occasional swearing, that might not be suitable for more sensitive or younger audiences. The series is clearly written with adults in mind, especially those who enjoy light romantic escapism with a magical twist. For families who prefer to avoid any romantic tension or sensuality in their reading material, this one might not be the best fit.
(humor, adventure, and a sweet, slow burn romance)
AUTHORS L. J. SMITH
THE SECRET CIRCLE
With love, witchcraft, and spellbinding drama, the Secret Circle series is perfect for fans of The Vampire Diaries.
This special paperback bind-up contains the first book in the Secret Circle series, The Initiation, as well as part one of the second book in the series, The Captive; from L.J. Smith, the New York Times bestselling author of The Vampire Diaries.
When Cassie is forced to move from California all the way to the small New England town of New Salem, she’s miserable. And yet, she feels a powerful kinship to the town, and to a terrifyingly beautiful group of students who always seem to get their way.
Charmed by the Secret Circle, Cassie is initiated into a coven of witches whose power has controlled New Salem for hundreds of years. But when she falls for the mysterious and intriguing Adam, she is faced with the most pressing danger of her life—and one wrong move could ultimately destroy her…
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
L. J. Smith’s The Secret Circle series is a compelling choice for readers who enjoy a mix of supernatural drama, romance, and coming-of-age themes. Set in a small town where a group of teenagers discovers they are witches bound by an ancient circle, the series explores the balance between power and responsibility, loyalty, and self-discovery. The characters are well-developed, and their relationships evolve over time, making the book relatable for readers navigating their own personal growth. The blend of mystery, magic, and romance keeps readers engaged, offering a page-turning experience for young adults and adult fans of supernatural fiction. In terms of content, The Secret Circle is well-suited for teens and families seeking a clean but engaging supernatural series. While there are romantic and some slightly suggestive moments between characters, the sexual content is minimal and not explicit, focusing more on the emotional and psychological aspects of relationships. The book contains occasional suspenseful scenes that may be intense, but they are not excessively graphic or violent. This makes it a good choice for older teens and readers looking for a series that balances magical intrigue with character-driven drama, without excessive focus on mature content. Overall, The Secret Circle provides an exciting, thoughtful, and relatively wholesome read for fans of paranormal fiction.
(accusations of witchcraft, religious intolerance, and rebellion. No explicit content or strong language.)
AUTHOR ELIZABETH GEORGE SPEARE
THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND
In this Newbery Medal–winning novel, a girl faces prejudice and accusations of witchcraft in seventeenth-century Connecticut. A classic of historical fiction that continues to resonate across the generations.
Sixteen-year-old Kit Tyler is marked by suspicion and disapproval from the moment she arrives on the unfamiliar shores of colonial Connecticut in 1687. Alone and desperate, she has been forced to leave her beloved home on the island of Barbados and join a family she has never met.
Torn between her quest for belonging and her desire to be true to herself, Kit struggles to survive in a hostile place. Just when it seems she must give up, she finds a kindred spirit. But Kit’s friendship with Hannah Tupper, believed by the colonists to be a witch, proves more taboo than she could have imagined and ultimately forces Kit to choose between her heart and her duty.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare is an excellent choice for readers of all ages, especially families, as it combines historical fiction with timeless themes of friendship, bravery, and personal growth. Set in colonial Connecticut, the story follows Kit Tyler, a young woman who moves to the Puritan settlement after the death of her grandfather. As Kit befriends a woman accused of witchcraft, she must navigate the challenges of fitting in while contending with the rigid norms of the Puritan society. The novel offers an enriching exploration of prejudice, courage, and the importance of standing up for what is right, making it an insightful read for both teens and adults. In terms of content, The Witch of Blackbird Pond is suitable for younger readers, as it does not contain any explicit sexual content. The romantic elements are gentle and focus more on emotional connections rather than physical attraction, making it an age-appropriate choice for young adults and their families. The book does contain some tense moments, particularly around themes of witchcraft and persecution, but it does so in a way that is thought-provoking and respectful of the historical context. Overall, this classic novel provides a captivating story with important lessons about acceptance, the dangers of fear-driven judgment, and the strength of standing up for one’s beliefs.
(romantic tension, mild violence, brief swearing, and no explicit sexual content)
AUTHOR HEIDI VANLANDINGHAM
IN MAGE WE TRUST (BOOK 1)
Bound by fate, torn by duty—can we survive the darkness together?
A daughter longing for her family... I was just a sassy college student until I was dragged into a realm of magic and danger. My hidden powers emerge when an emotionally hardened demon named Niki saves my life by sharing his soul. All I want is to return to my family, but a rogue mage’s killing spree and my growing attraction to Niki complicate everything.
A demon without hope... As the head demon enforcer, I’m tasked with stopping the murderous mage, but Johnna, the rebellious human, keeps turning my world upside down. She insists she can help, but it’s all I can do to prevent destruction—and resist the urge to kiss her senseless.
A tangled web of deceit, chaos, and murder... Together, we must trust each other and unite our strengths. The fate of the Dark World hangs in the balance, and our bond might be the key. Can our connection overcome the darkness, or will we be torn apart by the forces that threaten us?
Buy In Mage We Trust now and discover Greek gods, mystical creatures, excitement, and love!
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
In Mage We Trust by Heidi Vanlandingham could be a good pick for families who enjoy magical fantasy stories with a touch of romance and suspense. The book features mages, supernatural powers, and a murder mystery that keeps the pace moving. The romantic element is present but relatively clean—mostly emotional connection and a few kisses—without any explicit sexual content. This makes it a solid choice for readers who enjoy romance as part of a bigger fantasy world but want to avoid graphic scenes. The story also emphasizes themes like loyalty, courage, and the fight between good and evil, which can spark meaningful discussions. On the other hand, some families might be cautious about the darker aspects of the story. It includes mild to moderate violence, such as magical battles and murders connected to the mystery plot, which might be unsettling for more sensitive readers. There’s also occasional swearing, though it’s not constant or overly harsh. While the romance is generally clean, the tone of the story leans mature due to the suspense and danger surrounding the characters. For families looking for lighthearted fantasy or completely wholesome reads, this book may feel a bit intense, but for those open to fantasy with depth and tension, it can be an engaging and enjoyable choice.
(mild supernatural elements and a murder to solve, with no explicit romance, graphic violence, or profanity)
AUTHOR SHEREEN VEDAM
DEATH TAKES A DETOUR (BOOK 1)
A murder. A mystery. A legacy to uphold.'
Feuding with her over-protective mother, Abigail Grimshaw rebelliously stops at St. Michael's church against her mother's order to "hurry home," and runs straight into danger.
There, Abbie encounters an unexpected supernatural complication: she sees—and talks to—the Earl of Ashford. He died in 1816, but death doesn't stop this Regency ghost from charging Abbie with the safety of two scared children. A demon has murdered their mother.
She never imagined life would give her an actual mystery to solve, innocents to protect, and evil to banish, but Abbie discovers that she's a Grimm, like her mother before her. There's a long legacy of defending the innocent at stake.
If she cannot master child-guarding and demon-slaying simultaneously, her own legend will be short-lived.
If you enjoy ghostly tales with a fairy tale flavor, you'll love this new face on the Grimm scene.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Death Takes a Detour can be a good choice for readers who enjoy cozy paranormal mysteries with a light touch of magic and humor. The story features a relatable protagonist who navigates supernatural challenges while solving a murder, making it engaging without being overly dark or frightening. The mystery is intriguing but presented in a gentle, family-friendly way, and any romantic tension is minimal and sweet rather than explicit, keeping the focus on the plot, character interactions, and magical world-building. Fans of witches, ghosts, and light fantasy will likely find it charming and entertaining. That said, parents might consider a few mild elements before sharing it with more sensitive readers. The story centers on a murder investigation, so there is a non-graphic depiction of death, which could be unsettling to some. While romance is present, it is tame and not sexual, and swearing or explicit language is virtually nonexistent. Overall, the primary content concern would be the supernatural mystery and the concept of death, but these are handled lightly and without gore, keeping the series generally appropriate for a wide audience.
(features innocent teen romance (kissing only), light mystery violence (no gore), negligible swearing, and no explicit sexual content)
AUTHOR KATHRYN WELLS
UNOFFICIAL DETECTIVE (BOOK 1)
For his whole life, Thordric has been told that his magic is dangerous, and that he must never use it. All over Dinia, half-wizards are treated the same, their magic labelled as dangerous and uncontrollable.
When High Wizard Kalljard dies under mysterious circumstances, it falls to young Thordric to solve the case. The problem? The deed was done by magic, and though
Thordric is a half-wizard, he has never fully used his powers.
To prove himself right and find the person responsible, Thordric has to learn how to control his own powers. But can he learn fast enough, and find the perpetrator in time?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Unofficial Detective by Kathryn Wells is a charming choice for families looking for a clean, lighthearted mystery with a splash of fantasy. The story follows a young protagonist with a knack for solving magical mysteries, blending gentle suspense with humor and heart. It includes a sweet, innocent romance—limited to harmless flirting or the occasional kiss—making it approachable for younger readers just beginning to explore stories with romantic elements. There’s no explicit sexual content, and the tone remains upbeat and friendly throughout. This series might not be the best fit for readers or families seeking more intense action, complex themes, or emotionally deep storytelling. The mystery and magical elements are kept light, and while there is occasional danger or conflict, it’s presented in a non-graphic, low-stakes way. There’s very little swearing or violence, making it appropriate for a wide range of readers, but those craving high drama or darker content may find it too mild. Overall, it’s a wholesome and enjoyable read for fans of cozy fantasy and gentle adventure.