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FANTASY
Authors B - Bi
At a Glance
(themes of child sacrifice, dark magic, grief manipulation, and a "Sorrow Eater" antagonist who feeds on human misery)
AUTHOR KELLY BARNHILL
THE GIRL WHO DRANK THE MOON
With more than a million copies sold, Newbery Medal winner The Girl Who Drank the Moon is a must-read for fans of classic children's literature or timeless fantasy fables.
Every year, the people of the Protectorate leave a baby as an offering to the witch who lives in the forest. They hope this sacrifice will keep her from terrorizing their town. But the witch in the Forest, Xan, is kind. She shares her home with a wise Swamp Monster and a Perfectly Tiny Dragon. Xan rescues the children and delivers them to welcoming families on the other side of the forest, nourishing the babies with starlight on the journey.
One year, Xan accidentally feeds a baby moonlight instead of starlight, filling the ordinary child with extraordinary magic. Xan decides she must raise this girl, whom she calls Luna, as her own. As Luna’s thirteenth birthday approaches, her magic begins to emerge—with dangerous consequences. Meanwhile, a young man from the Protectorate is determined to free his people by killing the witch. Deadly birds with uncertain intentions flock nearby. A volcano, quiet for centuries, rumbles just beneath the earth’s surface. And the woman with the Tiger’s heart is on the prowl . . .
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill is a magical, captivating story that will appeal to readers of all ages. Set in a world where a town sacrifices a child every year to an evil witch, the book delves into themes of love, sacrifice, and the power of magic. It beautifully explores the complexity of human emotions, relationships, and the choices that define us. The book’s protagonist, Luna, is a young girl raised by a kind witch who accidentally feeds her moonlight, granting her incredible powers. With its blend of whimsy and deep moral lessons, The Girl Who Drank the Moon is a fantastic choice for families looking for a meaningful and imaginative read that encourages empathy and the value of standing up for what’s right. In terms of content, the book is appropriate for middle-grade readers, with a storyline that deals with dark themes like sacrifice and fear but presents them in a way that is suitable for younger audiences. There is no sexual content, as the focus is on the emotional growth of the characters, particularly Luna, and the challenges they face in a magical world. There are some moments of peril and tension, but nothing graphic or inappropriate. The book’s themes of personal growth, kindness, and discovering one’s inner strength make it a wonderful choice for families looking for a story that is both enchanting and thought-provoking, with messages of love, resilience, and the importance of compassion.
(contains moderate violence, dark themes, romantic tension, kissing, and brief suggestive content)
AUTHOR LEIGH BARDUGO
THE SHADOW AND BONE
Soldier. Summoner. Saint. Orphaned and expendable, Alina Starkov is a soldier who knows she may not survive her first trek across the Shadow Fold—a swath of unnatural darkness crawling with monsters. But when her regiment is attacked, Alina unleashes dormant magic not even she knew she possessed.
Now Alina will enter a lavish world of royalty and intrigue as she trains with the Grisha, her country’s magical military elite—and falls under the spell of their notorious leader, the Darkling. He believes Alina can summon a force capable of destroying the Shadow Fold and reuniting their war-ravaged country, but only if she can master her untamed gift.
As the threat to the kingdom mounts and Alina unlocks the secrets of her past, she will make a dangerous discovery that could threaten all she loves and the very future of a nation.
Welcome to Ravka . . . a world of science and superstition where nothing is what it seems.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Leigh Bardugo’s Shadow and Bone and its Grishaverse series offer a gripping, imaginative fantasy world filled with magic, political intrigue, and a strong heroine discovering her power. The story centers around Alina Starkov, a seemingly ordinary girl who learns she has a rare and powerful magical ability that could save her war-torn country. With a richly built world and a compelling blend of action, mystery, and romance, the series captures readers who enjoy epic adventures and morally complex characters. The plot’s fast pace and emotional stakes can make it a great choice for readers looking for a layered and engaging fantasy. When it comes to content, families should know that Shadow and Bone includes some romantic elements, including kissing and a few sensual scenes, but nothing overly explicit. There are also moments of violence and danger, consistent with the high-stakes setting, but not overly graphic. Swearing is present but generally moderate. While the themes become darker in later books, the series can be a good fit for readers who can handle mature emotional content and are comfortable with light romantic tension and some intense scenes. It's a thoughtful, well-crafted fantasy for those ready for a deeper dive into complex characters and darker plotlines.
(contains violence, mild swearing, and a slow-burn romance, with some mature themes)
AUTHOR LEIGH BARDUGO
SIX OF CROWS
Meet Kaz Brekker and his crew: Jesper, Inej, Wylan, and the star-crossed Nina and Matthias, on the heist of a lifetime in Six of Crows from #1 bestselling author, Leigh Bardugo.
Ketterdam: a bustling hub of international trade where anything can be had for the right price—and no one knows that better than criminal prodigy Kaz Brekker. Kaz is offered a chance at a deadly heist that could make him rich beyond his wildest dreams. But he can't pull it off alone. . . .
A convict with a thirst for revenge.
A sharpshooter who can't walk away from a wager.
A runaway with a privileged past.
A spy known as the Wraith.
A Heartrender using her magic to survive the slums.
A thief with a gift for unlikely escapes.
Six dangerous outcasts. One impossible heist. Kaz's crew is the only thing that might stand between the world and destruction—if they don't kill each other first.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Six of Crows series by Leigh Bardugo offers an engaging blend of action, adventure, and intricate world-building that makes it an excellent choice for readers looking for a thrilling fantasy. The story revolves around a diverse cast of morally complex characters who team up for a high-stakes heist, showcasing themes of loyalty, redemption, and personal growth. Although the plot contains moments of violence—particularly during heist and fight sequences—it is never gratuitous and serves the larger narrative. The characters also experience emotional and psychological depth, making it a perfect choice for readers who enjoy character-driven stories with rich, multi-layered relationships. In terms of romance and sexual content, the series contains a slow-burn romantic subplot but refrains from explicit sexual content. Some mild swearing occurs, particularly as the characters navigate their high-risk world, but it's not overwhelming or excessively harsh. The book's more mature themes, such as betrayal, trauma, and sacrifice, make it a thought-provoking choice for older teens, offering valuable discussions on morality and trust.
(no romance, sexual content, graphic violence, or strong swearing)
AUTHOR ELIZABETH BAXTER
THE LAST PRIESTESS
The gods whisper. The kingdom trembles. And two unlikely allies must decide its fate.
Maegwin was a priestess devoted to her goddess—until she was sentenced to die. After escaping execution, she’s given a new mission: uncover a rebellion that threatens the kingdom of Amaury. But with a dark goddess whispering vengeance in her ear, where do her true loyalties lie?
Rovann, a mage and royal enforcer, has his own duty: expose the rebellion threatening the crown. But his only ally is Maegwin, whose dark magic is both tempting and terrifying.
As war looms and unseen forces pull the strings, the kingdom’s fate rests in their hands. In a world where gods meddle and betrayal runs deep, can they trust each other long enough to survive?
The Last Priestessis the perfect beginning to an epic fantasy trilogy that will immerse you in a world of perilous choices, fractured loyalties and the relentless pursuit of power.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Last Priestess by Elizabeth Baxter could be a good choice for readers who enjoy immersive fantasy with rich worldbuilding, political intrigue, and a strong female lead. The story blends magic, religion, and rebellion without relying on explicit content, making it appealing to those who prefer clean reads. While there is romance woven into the plot, it’s subtle and secondary to the larger conflicts, so it doesn’t overshadow the adventure or themes of faith, loyalty, and sacrifice. Violence is present in the form of battles, threats, and political unrest, but it’s generally described in a way that serves the story rather than lingering on graphic detail. On the other hand, it might not be the best fit for readers who are sensitive to any depictions of war, persecution, or religious tension. While there’s no explicit sexual content or strong swearing, the darker themes—such as oppression, moral corruption, and the harsh consequences of political power—could be intense for those looking for lighter fantasy fare. The pace can also be more deliberate, focusing on the unfolding political landscape, which may not appeal to readers wanting fast action throughout. Overall, its clean content and mature themes make it more about depth and atmosphere than shock value, which could be a strength or a drawback depending on the reader.
(features themes of death, dragon extermination, and dark magic, with some graphic violence)
AUTHOR PETER S. BEAGLE
I'M AFRAID YOU'VE GOT DRAGONS
From the New York Times bestselling author of The Last Unicorn comes a new novel with equal amounts of power and whimsy in which a loveable cast of characters trapped within their roles of dragon hunter, princess, and more must come together to take their fates into their own hands.
Dragons are common in the backwater kingdom of Bellemontagne, coming in sizes from mouse-like vermin all the way up to castle-smashing monsters. Gaius Aurelius Constantine Heliogabalus Thrax (who would much rather people call him Robert) has recently inherited his deceased dad's job as a dragon catcher/exterminator, a career he detests with all his heart in part because he likes dragons, feeling a kinship with them, but mainly because his dream has always been the impossible one of transcending his humble origin to someday become a prince's valet. Needless to say, fate has something rather different in mind...
Why this book may or may not be a good choice for you and/or your family...
I'm Afraid You've Got Dragons by Peter S. Beagle could be a good choice for readers who enjoy quirky, whimsical fantasy with a mix of humor and darker themes. The story presents a unique premise, blending the mundane with the supernatural in a way that's both entertaining and thought-provoking. The book is ideal for readers who appreciate a blend of fantasy and philosophical exploration, as it touches on themes like responsibility, identity, and the unexpected consequences of dealing with mythical creatures like dragons. The characters are well-developed, and the narrative is lighthearted in parts, making it a suitable option for those who enjoy stories with a balance of seriousness and levity. However, this book may not be appropriate for younger readers or families looking for a more straightforward, lighthearted fantasy. While there is no explicit sexual content, the book contains disturbing body horror elements and dark themes such as violence and the mistreatment of dragons. Some readers might find the body horror aspects unsettling, as they include grotesque depictions of the human body that could be uncomfortable or frightening. The story's darker elements, such as the exploration of death and existential themes, could also be too intense for younger audiences. As such, it would be more suitable for older teens or adults who can handle these themes.
(moderate fantasy violence, mild romantic elements, and minimal to no explicit sexual content or strong language)
AUTHOR TALIA BECKETT
THE FIRE OF WINTER
Can an angel also be a demon?
Daughter to a half-elven, half-angelic princess and the demon who raised her, Tanwen doesn't know who or what she truly is.
Kept from living a full life, she's known nothing but the magic and destruction her father has taught her. Now she's divided, evil and goodness fighting their battle within her.
Can she find her mother's people before it's too late? Or will the wreckage wrought by the demonic part catch up to her first?
Her father has plans for her still, and the elves he wishes to enslave are rising up in force. With the land divided, desperate not to be conquered. The elven world as they know it could topple along with her.
But will she protect them or turn them into ash and embers?
Find out now in this epic tale of an elven heiress, her unlikely friend, and his not so tame wildcat.
Why this book may or may not be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Fire of Winter by Talia Beckett may be a strong choice for families looking for a clean, thought-provoking fantasy novel with emotional depth and character growth. The story centers on Tanwen, a young woman caught between the warring forces of light and darkness within herself, offering plenty of rich, internal conflict alongside fantasy adventure. Parents will appreciate that while the book explores themes of identity, morality, and redemption, it does so without relying on graphic violence, swearing, or explicit sexual content. Romance is present but portrayed in a gentle, restrained way, adding heart to the story without overwhelming it with mature themes. That said, families seeking a lighthearted or action-heavy fantasy might find this one more introspective and character-focused. The story touches on heavier emotional struggles, such as inner darkness and the burden of choice, which may be intense for very young readers, but teens and adults alike may find it compelling and relatable. There is no graphic sexual content—only light romantic tension—and the fantasy violence is in line with typical PG-13 fare. All in all, The Fire of Winter is a thoughtful and clean read that offers fantasy fans a meaningful story without pushing past common parental content boundaries.
(contains mild romance, no sexual content, moderate fantasy violence, and minimal swearing)
AUTHOR FRANK BEDDOR
THE LOOKING GLASS WARS
The Myth: Alice was an ordinary girl who stepped through the looking glass and entered a fairy-tale world invented by Lewis Carroll in his famous storybook.
The Truth: Wonderland is real. Alyss Heart is the heir to the throne, until her murderous aunt Redd steals the crown and kills Alyss? parents.
To escape Redd, Alyss and her bodyguard, Hatter Madigan, must flee to our world through the Pool of Tears. But in the pool Alyss and Hatter are separated. Lost and alone in Victorian London, Alyss is befriended by an aspiring author to whom she tells the violent, heartbreaking story of her young life. Yet he gets the story all wrong. Hatter Madigan knows the truth only too well, and he is searching every corner of our world to find the lost princess and return her to Wonderland so she may battle Redd for her rightful place as the Queen of Hearts.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Looking Glass Wars by Frank Beddor offers a fresh and imaginative twist on the classic Alice in Wonderland tale, blending adventure, intrigue, and fantasy into a gripping read. The novel follows Alyss Heart, the true princess of Wonderland, who must reclaim her throne after being forced into exile by her evil aunt. This reimagining presents a darker, action-packed version of Wonderland, where Alyss must confront betrayal, magic, and danger. It’s a perfect choice for readers who enjoy high-stakes adventure, a strong-willed heroine, and a complex, fantastical world with a bit of whimsy. The series is ideal for teens who appreciate fantasy with a deeper, more mature edge. Regarding content, The Looking Glass Wars is suitable for teens and older readers. While it doesn't include explicit sexual content, it does feature some violence and dark themes, such as war and betrayal. The action and conflicts are more intense than in a traditional children’s fantasy, making it an engaging choice for those who enjoy more mature narratives within the genre. There are moments of romantic tension, but these are more about emotional connection and the stakes of the story rather than explicit physical relationships. This makes the series an appropriate choice for families with older teens who are ready for a more complex, action-driven fantasy with a strong emotional and moral core.
(mild romance with some kissing, non-explicit sexual tension, moderate fantasy violence, occasional perilous moments, and little to no swearing)
AUTHOR JILL M. BEENE
A POISON VIAL
A Forgotten Princess.
Princess Ari lives a solitary existence in the wintery north, surrounded by snow and silence and the achievements of her four older brothers.
A Handsome King.
But when a mysterious visitor disrupts everything, Ari is presented with a stark choice--all she’s ever known, or an exciting new life by his side.
A Nation Balancing on a Dagger’s Edge…
She flings herself into the unfamiliar, but not everything is as it seems in the glittering capital.
Rebellion simmers.
War looms.
And enemies Ari doesn’t know she has are much closer than she can imagine.
The Battle for Leiria begins in A Poison Vial.
Why this book may or may not be a good choice for you and/or your family...
A Poison Vial weaves a regal, slow-burn romance with polite kisses and simmering tension, all against a backdrop of duels, court intrigue, and enough peril to keep things exciting; some fantasy violence and references to danger and mild death scenes appear, but there's virtually no swearing or explicit sex—making it a solid pick for readers ready for low-stakes mature YA. That said, this one might not be the best fit for families looking for ultra-light reads: it delves into political scheming, hints at battlefield dangers, and has moments of emotional strain and mild peril that may feel heavy for those expecting fluffy fantasy. While clean, it leans more toward thoughtful drama than cozy escapism.