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DYSTOPIAN
Authors D - L
At a Glance
(contains intense violence, minimal swearing, no explicit sexual content, and explores dark dystopian themes)
AUTHOR TED DEKKER & TOSCA LEE
FORBIDDEN (BOOK 1)
New York Times bestselling author Ted Dekker teams with Tosca Lee to create this gripping thriller set in a desolate future.
Many years have passed since civilization's brush with apocalypse. The world's greatest threats have all been silenced. There is no anger, no hatred, no war. There is only perfect peace... and fear. But a terrible secret has been closely guarded for centuries: Every single soul walking the earth, though in appearance totally normal, is actually dead, long ago genetically stripped of true humanity.
Fleeing pursuit, with only moments to live, a young man named Rom stumbles into possession of a vial of blood and a piece of cryptic writing. When consumed, the blood will bring him back to life. When decoded, the message will lead him on a perilous journey that will require him to abandon everything he has ever known and awaken humanity to the transforming power of true life and love.
But the blood will also resurrect hatred, ambition, and greed.
Set in a terrifying, medieval future, where grim pageantry masks death, this tale of dark desires and staggering stakes peels back the layers of the heart for all who dare to take the ride.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Forbidden can be a great pick for readers who enjoy dystopian and post-apocalyptic fiction with high stakes, suspense, and moral dilemmas. The story offers fast-paced action, strong character development, and imaginative world-building. Any romantic content is minimal and non-explicit, while violence is intense and often graphic, including stabbings, shootings, and life-or-death peril. Swearing is rare, and sexual content is absent. The narrative features a strong redemptive arc, as characters struggle with sin, choice, and hope, ultimately seeking moral and spiritual restoration. Families or readers looking for thrilling, thought-provoking dystopian adventure with a message of redemption will likely find this book engaging. However, Forbidden may not suit everyone. Readers or families who prefer stories without graphic violence, life-threatening danger, or dark themes may find some elements unsettling. Even minimal romance or moral tension could be distracting for those avoiding complex emotional content. Overall, the book’s content is intense, so whether it is a good fit depends on the family’s comfort level with violence, suspense, and the dark yet redemptive dystopian themes.
(intense action, violence, suspense, and dark themes of survival)
Editor's
Favorite
AUTHOR JAMES DASHNER
THE MAZE RUNNER (BOOK 1)
When Thomas wakes up in the lift, the only thing he can remember is his name. He’s surrounded by strangers—boys whose memories are also gone.
Outside the towering stone walls that surround them is a limitless, ever-changing maze. It’s the only way out—and no one’s ever made it through alive.
Then a girl arrives. The first girl ever. And the message she delivers is terrifying.
Remember.
Survive.
Run.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Maze Runner by James Dashner is a high-octane, dystopian thriller that will appeal to readers who enjoy action-packed adventures and complex world-building. The story follows Thomas, a teenage boy who wakes up in a mysterious maze with no memory of his past. As he and a group of other boys attempt to escape, they face dangerous creatures and uncover secrets about their existence. The book is fast-paced and filled with suspense, making it an exciting read for those who enjoy a blend of mystery, action, and survival themes. The series also explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the human spirit, which can resonate with readers. On the downside, The Maze Runner includes some content that might concern parents for younger readers. While there is no explicit sexual content, there are brief mentions of sexual tension and a couple of kisses, but nothing too graphic. The violence in the book can be intense, with characters battling deadly creatures and facing life-threatening situations. Some of the language includes alternate swears, and there are dark, emotional moments that deal with loss and fear. These elements may make it less suitable for younger or more sensitive readers. Overall, The Maze Runner is a compelling choice for readers who enjoy dystopian novels, but the intensity of the violence and themes may not be appropriate for everyone.
(revenge, violence, and psychological manipulation, with some romantic elements)
AUTHOR SOPHIE DAVIS
TALENTED (BOOK 1)
With over Half a Million worldwide downloads and Twenty-Eight Million pages read in Kindle Unlimited, readers are raving about the Talented Saga: "X-Men meets Divergent in a new way." "Intoxicatingly good."
Block out thoughts.
Talia Lyons has one goal at the McDonough School for the Talented: learn to use her Talent as a Mental Manipulator to kill the man who murdered her parents.
Block out pain.
She'll deal with anything. The brutal physical demands. The emotional toll. Whatever it takes to reach her objective.
Block out friendship.
With only one year left in the program, Talia is suddenly finding it harder than ever to ignore the rest of her life. Block out love. Even worse, she can't seem to turn off her psychic connection to her first love...or quit thinking about her fascinating new teammate.
Feel only vengeance.
Ian Crane. The man who destroyed Talia's life. The one she's determined to eradicate.
Now focus.
It's time to kill.
The Talented Saga is an award-winning and internationally bestselling Dystopian Romance series about the life of a girl with extraordinary psychic powers, and what happens when a heart is torn between love and rage...
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Sophie Davis’s Talented and its series offers an exciting mix of science fiction, suspense, and romance, making it a thrilling read for fans of young adult fantasy and paranormal genres. The story follows Taryn, a girl with extraordinary abilities, who is caught up in a world of danger, mystery, and hidden secrets. The fast-paced plot and Taryn's development as she discovers her powers and uncovers conspiracies make this a compelling series for readers who enjoy action-packed adventures with a touch of romance. The series also tackles themes of identity, trust, and the struggle between good and evil, which can resonate with many readers. However, Talented includes certain content elements that might be a concern for some families. While the romantic tension is present, the sexual content is relatively mild, with some romantic scenes involving kissing and implied intimacy, but no explicit descriptions or graphic scenes. The violence in the series can be intense, with characters facing life-threatening situations and engaging in physical confrontations. Additionally, the series includes some swearing, though it is not excessive. While these elements contribute to the maturity of the series, they might make it less suitable for younger readers or those sensitive to violence or romance in young adult fiction. For readers who enjoy fast-paced, thrilling adventures with mild romance and action, Talented is an engaging choice, but it’s important to consider the level of intensity for younger audiences.
(mild romantic elements, moderate fantasy violence, and infrequent mild swearing)
AUTHOR KATE ELLIOTT
COURT OF FIVES
In this imaginative escape into enthralling new lands, World Fantasy Award finalist Kate Elliott's first bestselling young adult novel weaves an epic story of a girl struggling to do what she loves in a society suffocated by rules of class and privilege.
Jessamy's life is a balance between acting like an upper-class Patron and dreaming of the freedom of the Commoners. But away from her family she can be whoever she wants when she sneaks out to train for The Fives, an intricate, multilevel athletic competition that offers a chance for glory to the kingdom's best contenders. Then Jes meets Kalliarkos, and an unlikely friendship between two Fives competitors--one of mixed race and the other a Patron boy--causes heads to turn. When Kal's powerful, scheming uncle tears Jes's family apart, she'll have to test her new friend's loyalty and risk the vengeance of a royal clan to save her mother and sisters from certain death.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Court of Fives by Kate Elliott can be a great choice for families and readers who enjoy stories with strong female protagonists, layered world-building, and themes of resilience, justice, and personal identity. The book follows Jessamy, a talented athlete caught between rigid social classes in a militarized empire, as she navigates forbidden competitions and dangerous political intrigue. The novel encourages critical thinking about class, privilege, and personal agency, all while maintaining an exciting, fast-paced plot suitable for older middle school or high school readers. Its focus on family loyalty, inner strength, and defying expectations makes it especially appealing to teens and parents looking for books with empowering messages. In terms of content, Court of Fives includes mild romantic elements and some references to sensual attraction, but nothing overtly graphic. Violence is present, including moments of danger, physical competition, and political unrest, but it's portrayed within context and isn't excessive. Language is generally clean, and the book avoids strong swearing. Overall, it would be appropriate for readers who enjoy a mix of action, heart, and thoughtful social commentary. It's a solid pick for families looking for an engaging read that also opens up discussion about society and self-worth.
(minimal to no romance, rare swearing, tense, apocalyptic-scale disaster with threats, danger, and implied peril)
AUTHOR TARA ELLIS
FIRST IMPACT (BOOK 1)
A harrowing post-apocalyptic thriller about what it takes to survive after a horrific global disaster.
The apocalypse happened before. It will happen again...
Kyle was the first to detect the incoming threat. As a leading astronomer in the study of Near-Earth Objects, his obsession with a rare asteroid containing three orbiting moons provided the only warning. But it wouldn’t be enough to protect his daughter, let alone the rest of the world.
Dallas has committed her life to unraveling the mysteries of deep time and humanity's ancient past. Confronted with its imminent extinction, she’s forced to rely on the relationships made in the present and draws upon her unique skillset to seek unexpected answers.
From the tundra of Alaska to the ancient caves of South Africa, a group of strangers are pulled together through a string of catastrophic events. Events that reveal how the definition of an apocalypse can be redefined and how our past may hold the key to preserving the future.
Don't miss this new Post-Apocalyptic series from Tara Ellis! This series explores every facet of global disasters and how far people will go to survive. It's perfect for fans of Kyla Stone, Bobby Akart, Jack Hunt, and Ryan Schow.
Get it now!
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
First Impact by Tara Ellis can be a great pick for readers who enjoy fast-paced apocalyptic thrillers with a survival theme. The story offers gripping suspense, high-stakes danger, and a sense of realism in how ordinary people face extraordinary disasters. Any romantic content is minimal and non-explicit, while violence, though present, is more about survival peril and natural disasters rather than graphic detail. Swearing is rare, and sexual content is absent. Families or readers looking for a suspenseful, edge-of-your-seat adventure that leans more on survival and courage than on darker or explicit elements will likely find this book both engaging and approachable. However, First Impact may not suit everyone. Readers or families who prefer to avoid intense danger or apocalyptic scenarios may find the disaster-driven tension unsettling. The violence, while not graphic, includes depictions of peril, death, and life-threatening situations. The darker survival themes might feel heavy for those looking for lighter, more uplifting stories. Overall, the book’s content is moderate, and whether it is a good fit depends on a family’s comfort level with suspense, disaster peril, and emotionally tense situations.
(includes mild romance, references to cloning and drug cartels, moments of violence, and occasional strong language)
AUTHOR NANCY FARMER
THE HOUSE OF THE SCORPION
Discover this internationally bestselling, National Book Award–winning young adult classic about what it means to be human with an updated, reimagined cover!
Matt Alacrán wasn’t born. He was harvested.
His DNA came from El Patrón, the drug-lord ruler of the country of Opium. Most people hate and fear clones like Matt—except for El Patrón. El Patrón loves Matt as he loves himself, because Matt is himself.
As Matt struggles to understand his existence, he is threatened by a sinister cast of characters, and realizes escape is his only chance to survive. But escape from the Alacrán Estate is no guarantee of freedom.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Nancy Farmer’s The House of the Scorpion is a gripping and thought-provoking science fiction novel that explores important themes such as identity, morality, and the consequences of human ambition. Set in a future where cloning is common, the protagonist, Matt, struggles with being a clone of a powerful drug lord, facing prejudice, and questioning his own existence. The book offers deep moral dilemmas, exploring what it means to be human and the value of life. It also presents a society with stark inequalities and the abuse of power, making it an excellent choice for readers who enjoy challenging ideas and dystopian settings. However, The House of the Scorpion includes content that may not be suitable for all families. The novel touches on dark themes, including the exploitation of clones, violence, and manipulation, which can be disturbing for younger readers. While there is minimal sexual content—mainly involving some subtle references and a few implied situations—there is a disturbing scene involving the protagonist being treated as property, which could be unsettling. The violence, while not overly graphic, is significant in the context of the oppressive society in which the story takes place. Given the mature themes of power, exploitation, and self-identity, this book might be more appropriate for readers who are ready to engage with complex and challenging content. It’s a great choice for those interested in dystopian literature and ethical questions but may be difficult for younger audiences to process fully.
(features dystopian violence with occasional gore, a first‑love romance with kissing and implied intimacy, and mild swearing)
AUTHOR CHRISTOPHER FRANCIS
THEY CAME FROM THE TREES (BOOK 1)
The strong are infected. The weak are tossed into pits.
The radios are dead. No word from the government. No soldiers on the horizon. The world outside stopped answering—and the town was left in the dark.
All that remains are the survivors: a quiet kid from a broken farm—and a girl he never imagined would be at his side when the world ended.
Fifteen-year-old Sheldon didn’t ask to lead anyone. But when the creatures came from the trees, they didn’t just kill—they hollowed people out.
Now, the real threat isn’t what’s hunting them—it’s the infection twisting human minds and erasing everything they used to be.
When the town collapses overnight, Sheldon is forced to make choices no one his age should ever face. With danger in every shadow and no one left to trust, he and a small group of survivors must navigate a world that’s turned against them—one mile, one mistake, one heartbeat at a time.
As trust fades and instincts take over, Sheldon will learn that surviving the end of the world isn’t about running or fighting.
It’s about making sacrifices—heartbreaking, terrifying sacrifices.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
They Came from the Trees: The Merge by Christopher Francis could be a great choice for readers who enjoy sci-fi thrillers with dystopian elements, fast pacing, and relatable teen protagonists. The story blends suspense, survival, and light romance, keeping the plot accessible for readers who want action without heavy graphic detail. Romantic content is mild—limited to some kissing and emotional connections—and the focus remains on the characters’ efforts to navigate a terrifying invasion and protect their loved ones. The themes of courage, sacrifice, and resilience make it an engaging option for families comfortable with slightly darker storytelling. That said, some parents may find the book’s tone and content better suited to older or more mature readers. The alien invasion plot includes intense scenes, violence, and unsettling imagery, particularly involving transformation and death, though it avoids overly graphic depictions. There’s occasional mild language and references to romantic attraction that may not appeal to families looking for lighter or purely adventure-based reads. Still, for readers who can handle suspense and emotional stakes, the book provides an exciting, thought-provoking experience with strong character development.
(includes moderate violence, some strong language, and minimal romance)
AUTHOR GERRY GAINFORD
AFTER THE FALL
"A gripping post-apocalyptic narrative" - Literary Titan
Haley left Dublin for a six-week internship in Seattle, but the world went and ended before she got home.
Four years later, living in the ruins of Washington State, she is accused of her friend's murder. She flees into the night, with one destination in mind. Home to Marley, the love she left behind.
To escape her pursuers, skip around the swathes of chemical and radioactive waste, avoid roaming gangs of marauders, she will need to use every bit of engineering knowledge she has.
Can she make it across the continent and an uncrossable ocean to finally get home?
Does home still exist, or did it perish in the Fall?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
After the Fall by Gerry Gainford could be a compelling choice for readers who enjoy gritty, post-apocalyptic fiction with strong survival themes. The novel explores how humanity copes in a broken world, offering an engaging mix of action, character-driven storytelling, and a dark yet thought-provoking tone. Its strength lies in its depiction of resilience and the choices people make under pressure, which can spark meaningful conversations about ethics, leadership, and survival. For families who appreciate stories that challenge readers to think deeply, this book might be a great fit. That said, the book does contain content that might not suit all readers. There's moderate violence typical of dystopian settings—think survival skirmishes, threats from other survivors, and the harsh realities of a collapsed society. There’s also some strong language, which may concern those who prefer clean reads. However, there is no explicit sexual content and only light romantic references, if any. Overall, it’s best for readers who are comfortable with mature themes and can handle the tension and emotional weight of a grim setting.
(moderate violence with on-page murders and vivid bloodletting, a single kiss and implied romantic liaisons, infrequent mild swearing, and light drinking)
AUTHOR SARA HOLLAND
EVERLESS
New York Times bestseller!
"Sara Holland is a fierce storyteller. Everless gives new and terrifying meaning to the phrase running out of time." —Stephanie Garber, New York Times bestselling author of Caraval
In the kingdom of Sempera, time is currency—extracted from blood, bound to iron, and consumed to add time to one’s own lifespan. The rich aristocracy, like the Gerlings, tax the poor to the hilt, extending their own lives by centuries.
No one resents the Gerlings more than Jules Ember. A decade ago, she and her father were servants at Everless, the Gerlings’ palatial estate, until a fateful accident forced them to flee in the dead of night. When Jules discovers that her father is dying, she knows that she must return to Everless to earn more time for him before she loses him forever.
But going back to Everless brings more danger—and temptation—than Jules could have ever imagined. Soon she’s caught in a tangle of violent secrets and finds her heart torn between two people she thought she’d never see again. Her decisions have the power to change her fate—and the fate of time itself.
Fans of Victoria Aveyard, Kendare Blake, and Stephanie Garber will devour this lush novel's breathtaking action, incredible romance, and dangerous secrets. Plus don't miss the thrilling sequel, Evermore!
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Everless by Sara Holland might be a great choice for families or readers who enjoy imaginative fantasy with a dark twist and a touch of romance. Set in a unique world where time is literally drawn from blood and used as currency, the novel offers thought-provoking commentary on class, power, and survival. The fantasy elements are engaging and original, and while there is some romantic tension, the content stays firmly in the clean teen category—romance is limited to a few kisses and implied feelings, with no explicit sexual content. Violence is present, especially around the concept of time extraction and class conflict, but it’s not overly graphic. Swearing is mild and used sparingly. On the other hand, Everless might not be the best fit for families who prefer light-hearted or low-stakes fantasy. The story has a dark, sometimes intense tone, with themes of death, betrayal, and systemic injustice that could be heavy for more sensitive readers. The idea of bloodletting as a routine part of society may also be unsettling for some. While the romance is not a concern in terms of content, the emotional weight of the story and some of its moral complexities may make it better suited to readers who are ready to handle more mature themes within a fantasy framework. Overall, it's a compelling and clean read—but one that leans into the darker side of YA fantasy.
(contains minimal romance, no sexual content, moderate violence, and some swearing)
AUTHOR HUGH HOWEY
WOOL
SEASON 2 OF THE ACCLAIMED SILO SERIES — BASED ON BOOK 1, WOOL — NOW ON APPLE TV+
“One of dystopian fiction’s masterpieces alongside the likes of 1984 and Brave New World." — Daily Express
The first book in the acclaimed, New York Times best-selling trilogy, Wool is the story of mankind clawing for survival. The world outside has grown toxic, the view of it limited, talk of it forbidden. The remnants of humanity live underground in a single silo.
But there are always those who hope, who dream. These are the dangerous people, the residents who infect others with their optimism. Their punishment is simple. They are given the very thing they want: They are allowed to go outside.
After the previous sheriff leaves the silo in a terrifying ritual, Juliette, a mechanic from the down deep, is suddenly and inexplicably promoted to the head of law enforcement. With newfound power and with little regard for the customs she is supposed to abide, Juliette uncovers hints of a sinister conspiracy. Tugging this thread may uncover the truth . . . or it could kill every last human alive.
“Claustrophobic and, at times, genuinely terrifying.” — Washington Post
SEASONS 1 & 2 OF THE APPLE TV+ STREAMING SERIES "SILO" ARE BASED ON THE EVENTS IN BOOK ONE OF THE SERIES, WOOL.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Hugh Howey’s Wool and its series present an intriguing and immersive dystopian world that explores themes of survival, power, and human resilience in a society confined to massive underground silos. The book's world-building is captivating, with each layer of the story revealing more about the environment and the secrets that sustain it. Wool raises important philosophical and moral questions about the limits of freedom, truth, and the price of security. It’s a thought-provoking read for those who enjoy speculative fiction, with a strong focus on character development and societal structures. The tension in the plot and the ethical dilemmas the characters face create an engaging narrative that can lead to meaningful discussions. However, Wool contains content that may not be suitable for all readers. The novel includes some violence, particularly in the form of harsh punishments, executions, and a general atmosphere of oppression and despair. These elements are central to the book’s themes but could be intense for more sensitive readers. There is limited sexual content, though there are occasional references to relationships, including a mild romantic subplot. The language is generally appropriate for an adult audience, but there are moments of swearing and some graphic violence that may be concerning for younger readers. While the book is a solid choice for those who appreciate dystopian narratives with deep societal commentary, it may not be ideal for families with younger teens or readers looking for lighter material.
(societal control, emotional depth, and mild violence)
Editor's
Favorite
AUTHOR LOIS LOWRY
THE GIVER
In Lois Lowry’s Newbery Medal–winning classic, twelve-year-old Jonas lives in a seemingly ideal world. Not until he is given his life assignment as the Receiver does he begin to understand the dark secrets behind his fragile community.
Life in the community where Jonas lives is idyllic. Designated birthmothers produce newchildren, who are assigned to appropriate family units. Citizens are assigned their partners and their jobs. No one thinks to ask questions. Everyone obeys. Everyone is the same. Except Jonas.
Not until he is given his life assignment as the Receiver of Memory does he begin to understand the dark, complex secrets behind his fragile community. Gradually Jonas learns that power lies in feelings. But when his own power is put to the test—when he must try to save someone he loves—he may not be ready. Is it too soon? Or too late?
Told with deceptive simplicity, this is the provocative story of a boy who experiences something incredible and undertakes something impossible. In the telling it questions every value we have taken for granted and reexamines our most deeply held beliefs.
The Giver has become one of the most influential novels of our time.
Don't miss the powerful companion novels in Lois Lowry's Giver Quartet: Gathering Blue, Messenger, and Son.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Lois Lowry’s The Giver and its series are often praised for their powerful exploration of individuality, memory, and the meaning of humanity. The story begins in what appears to be a utopian society where pain, conflict, and choice have been eliminated—but as the protagonist, Jonas, uncovers the truth, readers are invited to question the cost of peace without freedom. The writing is accessible yet deeply layered, making it an excellent choice for readers ready to think critically about moral dilemmas, emotional growth, and what it means to truly live. It’s especially valuable for families or classrooms looking for meaningful conversation starters about empathy, free will, and the importance of history. That said, The Giver deals with some mature and unsettling concepts, including euthanasia, emotional suppression, and the darker sides of societal control. While there’s no explicit sexual content or profanity, there are references to concepts like “stirrings”—early signs of sexual awareness—which are addressed in a clinical and non-graphic way. The violence in the book is not overly graphic but can be emotionally heavy, particularly when Jonas begins to receive memories of real human suffering. Because of these themes, it might not be a good fit for readers who are especially sensitive to bleak or disturbing content. However, for those prepared to engage thoughtfully, it’s a powerful and ultimately hopeful story that continues to resonate long after the last page.
(violence, death, dystopian themes, mild profanity, and romantic elements with kissing but no explicit sexual content)
AUTHOR MARIE LU
LEGEND
"Legend doesn't merely survive the hype, it deserves it."
From the New York Times bestselling author of The Young Elites
What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem.
From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias's death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.
Full of nonstop action, suspense, and romance, this novel is sure to move readers as much as it thrills.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Marie Lu’s Legend series can be a great pick for readers who enjoy fast-paced, dystopian adventures with a strong emotional core and compelling characters. The story follows two teens from very different backgrounds—June, a prodigy of the elite military class, and Day, the Republic’s most wanted criminal—as they unravel government secrets and fight against an oppressive regime. The series explores themes like loyalty, justice, and sacrifice, making it appealing for families who value stories that encourage critical thinking about power and morality. The romance between June and Day develops naturally and is handled with restraint, adding a layer of emotional depth without overshadowing the action. However, Legend does contain content that may give some families pause. There’s frequent violence, including scenes of war, executions, and hand-to-hand combat, though it’s not excessively graphic. The romantic scenes are limited to some kissing and mild innuendo—nothing explicit—but the emotional intensity of the relationship is a notable element of the story. There is some light swearing, but it’s relatively mild compared to more mature YA titles. Overall, the series is likely best suited for readers who can handle tense, occasionally dark subject matter, while still being appropriate for many teens ready to tackle complex themes in an engaging, action-packed narrative.
(includes mild romance, implied sexual content, graphic violence, political intrigue, and occasional strong language)
AUTHOR S.J. KINCAID
THE DIABOLIC
“The perfect kind of high-pressure adventure.” —TeenVogue.com
A New York Times bestseller!
Red Queen meets The Hunger Games in this epic novel about what happens when a senator’s daughter is summoned to the galactic court as a hostage, but she’s really the galaxy’s most dangerous weapon in disguise.
A Diabolic is ruthless. A Diabolic is powerful. A Diabolic has a single task: Kill in order to protect the person you’ve been created for.
Nemesis is a Diabolic, a humanoid teenager created to protect a galactic senator’s daughter, Sidonia. The two have grown up side by side, but are in no way sisters. Nemesis is expected to give her life for Sidonia, and she would do so gladly. She would also take as many lives as necessary to keep Sidonia safe.
When the power-mad Emperor learns Sidonia’s father is participating in a rebellion, he summons Sidonia to the Galactic court. She is to serve as a hostage. Now, there is only one way for Nemesis to protect Sidonia. She must become her. Nemesis travels to the court disguised as Sidonia—a killing machine masquerading in a world of corrupt politicians and two-faced senators’ children. It’s a nest of vipers with threats on every side, but Nemesis must keep her true abilities a secret or risk everything.
As the Empire begins to fracture and rebellion looms closer, Nemesis learns there is something more to her than just deadly force. She finds a humanity truer than what she encounters from most humans. Amidst all the danger, action, and intrigue, her humanity just might be the thing that saves her life—and the empire.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
S.J. Kincaid’s The Diabolic series might be a thrilling choice for readers who enjoy intense sci-fi with morally complex characters, high political stakes, and fast-paced action. The story follows Nemesis, a genetically engineered bodyguard known as a Diabolic, who is tasked with protecting a senator’s daughter by taking her place in the galactic court. This leads to a high-stakes game of deception, rebellion, and survival. The themes explore identity, sacrifice, and what it means to be human, which can spark thought-provoking discussions for readers and families interested in dystopian and futuristic storytelling. That said, the series contains some content that may not be ideal for every household. There is violence throughout, including deaths and emotional trauma, often described in a vivid but not overly graphic way. Romance plays a significant role in the plot, with some sensual scenes and implied intimacy, though it stops short of being explicit. There is also occasional strong language and dark political manipulation. For families who are sensitive to darker themes or romantic intensity, this series may require a bit of discernment. However, for more mature readers ready to explore a richly imagined sci-fi world with ethical depth, The Diabolic can be a compelling and rewarding read.