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Fairy Tale, Fantasy

FANTASY

Authors Bl - By

At a Glance

Featured Book

A School so Gorgeous and Fatal.jpg
rated PG

(violence, including battles, deaths, and injuries, as well as mild romantic elements)

AUTHOR SAM BLOOD
 
A SCHOOL SO GORGEOUS AND FATAL (BOOK 1)

 

Some secrets are worth risking everything for. Others will kill you first.

A secret society murdered my father and left me for dead. Well, I've got news for them - I'm not just his daughter, I'm his vengeance.

My quest for justice has led me to Counterpart Academy, a hidden school of secrets, power and forbidden magic nestled in the heart of Wellington, New Zealand. Everyone here seems to have their own agenda. Especially the dangerously attractive Riley Aberdeen. Then there's Sephy, an outrageous manticore with a knack for inappropriate humour and a nose for trouble.

Let's get one thing straight: I'm not here for friends. I'm here for answers. If those answers come at the price of my life... so be it. But the more I uncover, the more I risk losing those I love in a deadly game of lies, power, and dark legacy.

For fans of Shadowhunters, Vampire Academy, and A Deadly Education — comes a gripping new YA urban fantasy full of magic, danger, and secrets worth dying for.

Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...

This novel delivers the familiar “magical academy” setting with a darker twist: the protagonist’s father was murdered, and the storyline follows her infiltration of a secret society at a school of supernatural power. The setting is richly atmospheric and full of suspense, making it a strong choice for readers who enjoy young‐adult urban fantasy with intrigue and larger stakes—ideal for those wanting high-tension adventure among supernatural elements. On the content side, while there is no romance in the A School so Gorgeous and Fatal, it contains references to murder and other dark themes, with implied violence throughout the story. The suspenseful and tense atmosphere could be intense for some readers, so families may want to consider their comfort level with darker fantasy elements before choosing this book.

AUTHOR HOLLY BLACK ​  THE DARKEST PART OF THE FOREST
rated PG13

(includes moderate romance, some sensuality, fantasy violence, dark themes, and occasional strong language)

 

AUTHOR HOLLY BLACK

THE DARKEST PART OF THE FOREST

 

A girl makes a secret sacrifice to the faerie king in this lush New York Times bestselling fantasy by author Holly Black. Set in the same world as The Cruel Prince!

In the woods is a glass coffin. It rests on the ground, and in it sleeps a boy with horns on his head and ears as pointed as knives....

Hazel and her brother, Ben, live in Fairfold, where humans and the Folk exist side by side. Since they were children, Hazel and Ben have been telling each other stories about the boy in the glass coffin, that he is a prince and they are valiant knights, pretending their prince would be different from the other faeries, the ones who made cruel bargains, lurked in the shadows of trees, and doomed tourists. But as Hazel grows up, she puts aside those stories. Hazel knows the horned boy will never wake.

Until one day, he does....

As the world turns upside down, Hazel has to become the knight she once pretended to be.

The Darkest Part of the Forest is bestselling author Holly Black's triumphant return to the opulent, enchanting faerie tales that launched her YA career.

Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...

The Darkest Part of the Forest by Holly Black is an enthralling fantasy novel set in a world where magic and danger lurk just beyond the edges of a seemingly ordinary town. The story follows Hazel and her brother Ben, who live in a town that borders a forest filled with faeries and other supernatural creatures. When a sleeping faerie prince is awakened and their town is thrust into peril, Hazel must confront the complex and dark relationships between humans and faeries. The book is a great choice for readers who enjoy intricate world-building, strong characters, and a blend of mystery, adventure, and magic. Its themes of loyalty, bravery, and love resonate with readers who appreciate emotional depth in their fantasy stories. In terms of content, The Darkest Part of the Forest is appropriate for older teens and adults. The novel contains elements of romance, but the sexual content is minimal, focusing more on the emotional complexities of the relationships between the characters. There are some darker themes, such as betrayal, violence, and the exploration of moral gray areas, but they are balanced by moments of humor and warmth. The book's sense of danger and magic, coupled with its intriguing and morally nuanced characters, makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy YA fantasy with a bit of edge but without explicit or overly graphic content. The series is perfect for readers looking for a story with emotional stakes, supernatural intrigue, and a touch of dark magic.

AUTHORS HOLLY BLACK & CASSANDRA CLARE ​  THE IRON TRIAL
rated G

(contains mild violence and some dark themes)

AUTHORS HOLLY BLACK & CASSANDRA CLARE

THE IRON TRIAL

 

From NEW YORK TIMES bestselling authors Holly Black and Cassandra Clare comes a riveting new series that defies what you think you know about the world of magic.

​​

Most kids would do anything to pass the Iron Trial. Not Callum Hunt. He wants to fail. All his life, Call has been warned by his father to stay away from magic. If he succeeds at the Iron Trial and is admitted into the Magisterium, he is sure it can only mean bad things for him. So he tries his best to do his worst - and fails at failing. Now the Magisterium awaits him. It's a place that's both sensational and sinister, with dark ties to his past and a twisty path to his future. The Iron Trial is just the beginning, for the biggest test is still to come . . .

 

From the remarkable imaginations of bestselling authors Holly Black and Cassandra Clare comes a heart-stopping, mind-blowing, pulse-pounding plunge into the magical unknown.

Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...

The Iron Trial by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare is an excellent choice for families seeking an engaging read. The story follows Callum Hunt, a boy who has been warned that magic is dangerous, yet finds himself attending the Magisterium, a school for young mages. As Call faces trials that test his courage and identity, the book explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery. These positive messages provide rich opportunities for family discussion, especially as Call learns that things aren’t always what they seem. The story’s intriguing twists and well-developed characters make it enjoyable for both younger readers and parents alike. In terms of content, The Iron Trial offers mild violence typical of fantasy adventures, but without excessive detail or graphic descriptions. Romance is minimal, keeping the focus on friendships and teamwork. The book's emphasis on perseverance, responsibility, and making difficult choices encourages positive values, while its suspenseful plot keeps readers engaged. With its blend of magic, mystery, and meaningful themes, The Iron Trial is a well-rounded choice for family reading that balances excitement with thoughtful content.

AUTHORS R. J. BLAIN ​​  PLAYING WITH FIRE
rated PG13

(playful romantic tension with kisses [closed-door scenes], frequent supernatural violence and deaths, and mild swearing)

AUTHORS R. J. BLAIN

PLAYING WITH FIRE (BOOK 1)

 

Warning: This novel contains excessive humor, a fire-breathing unicorn on a mission of destruction, magic, romance, and bodies. Proceed with caution.

Catering to the magical is a tough gig on a good day, but Bailey has few other options. Spiking drinks with pixie dust keeps the locals happy and beats cleaning up the world’s nastiest magical substances. She could live without serving Police Chief Samuel Quinn most days of the week, especially after destroying his marriage.

But when she’s targeted with a cell phone bomb containing gorgon dust capable of transforming her home into a stone tomb, she’s tossed head first into a mess with her sexiest enemy. Add in his ex-wife angling for revenge, and Bailey must use every trick up her sleeve to survive.

The last thing she needs is to fall in love with Manhattan’s Most Wanted Bachelor. Saving Manhattan will be tough enough.

Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...

Playing with Fire: A Magical Romantic Comedy (with a body count) by R.J. Blain might be a great pick for readers who enjoy fast-paced, quirky fantasy with a humorous twist. The book blends romantic comedy with urban fantasy, featuring a snarky, resilient heroine, magical chaos, and plenty of action. The romance is playful and flirtatious, with some kissing and off-page, implied intimacy—nothing graphic or explicit. Violence is present but leans toward the over-the-top, magical kind rather than gritty realism, making it feel more like cartoonish mayhem than anything truly disturbing. Swearing is mild and infrequent, mostly used for comedic effect. However, this book may not be the best fit for families looking for more traditional or toned-down fantasy. The humor is often sarcastic, and the tone walks a fine line between whimsical and irreverent, which some may find too flippant, especially in the face of the “body count” implied in the title. While the sexual content is not explicit, the presence of romantic tension and closed-door scenes may still be too mature for younger or more sensitive readers. Overall, the series is fun and imaginative, but best suited for readers comfortable with a little irreverence, light romance, and magical violence.

AUTHOR A. J. BLANCH​​   FOUND IN EMBERS
rated PG

(violence, including battles, deaths, and injuries, as well as mild romantic elements)

AUTHOR A. J. BLANCH
 
FOUND IN EMBERS (BOOK 1)

 

How far would you go to save your only sister?

 

Astrid has been trying to keep her adopted sister, Lyric, hidden—their mother’s dying wish—but it proves difficult when Lyric attracts unwanted attention from another realm.

 

After Lyric gets kidnapped by members of the Jalak Brotherhood, Astrid vows to do

whatever it takes to bring her home. Stealing a motorcycle and boarding a strange ship, Astrid travels far from Kansas City, to a realm where magic is real. Low on options, she contracts the help of a dangerously attractive dragonborn assassin.

 

Can Astrid navigate uncertainty and betrayal to save her sister? Or will she break when forced to face her biggest fear?

 

 

Found in Embers is the first book in the Astrid Stone Trilogy, an epic Urban Fantasy. If you like fast paced adventure, sexy shifters, and a sprinkling of dry humor, you’ll love the adventure AJ Blanch has crafted in this series. Buy Found in Embers now, to read Astrid’s adventure.

Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...

Frostblood by Elly Blake is an engaging fantasy novel set in a world where people are divided into two factions based on elemental powers: Firebloods, who wield fire magic, and Frostbloods, who control ice. The story follows Ruby, a young girl with Frostblood powers who must learn to harness her abilities to help defeat a tyrannical ruler. With strong themes of bravery, loyalty, and self-discovery, Frostblood offers readers a captivating journey of magic, rebellion, and personal growth. The novel is full of adventure, well-developed characters, and thrilling action sequences, making it an excellent choice for readers who enjoy epic fantasy with a fast-paced plot. Regarding content, Frostblood is suitable for older teens, though it may also be appropriate for some younger readers, depending on maturity. There is some romance in the story, but it is relatively mild, focusing on the emotional connection between Ruby and the romantic interest, rather than explicit sexual content. The book includes moments of violence and peril, with characters facing physical and emotional challenges, but these scenes are not overly graphic. The themes of standing up for what’s right and overcoming adversity are central to the plot, making it a great choice for families looking for a book with strong, positive messages about courage and resilience, while still keeping things engaging and accessible. The series as a whole provides an exciting fantasy adventure with a balance of action, romance, and emotional depth.

A School so Gorgeous and Fatal.jpg
rated PG

(violence, including battles, deaths, and injuries, as well as mild romantic elements)

AUTHOR SAM BLOOD
 
A SCHOOL SO GORGEOUS AND FATAL (BOOK 1)

 

Some secrets are worth risking everything for. Others will kill you first.

A secret society murdered my father and left me for dead. Well, I've got news for them - I'm not just his daughter, I'm his vengeance.

My quest for justice has led me to Counterpart Academy, a hidden school of secrets, power and forbidden magic nestled in the heart of Wellington, New Zealand. Everyone here seems to have their own agenda. Especially the dangerously attractive Riley Aberdeen. Then there's Sephy, an outrageous manticore with a knack for inappropriate humour and a nose for trouble.

Let's get one thing straight: I'm not here for friends. I'm here for answers. If those answers come at the price of my life... so be it. But the more I uncover, the more I risk losing those I love in a deadly game of lies, power, and dark legacy.

For fans of Shadowhunters, Vampire Academy, and A Deadly Education — comes a gripping new YA urban fantasy full of magic, danger, and secrets worth dying for.

Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...

This novel delivers the familiar “magical academy” setting with a darker twist: the protagonist’s father was murdered, and the storyline follows her infiltration of a secret society at a school of supernatural power. The setting is richly atmospheric and full of suspense, making it a strong choice for readers who enjoy young‐adult urban fantasy with intrigue and larger stakes—ideal for those wanting high-tension adventure among supernatural elements. On the content side, while there is no romance in the A School so Gorgeous and Fatal, it contains references to murder and other dark themes, with implied violence throughout the story. The suspenseful and tense atmosphere could be intense for some readers, so families may want to consider their comfort level with darker fantasy elements before choosing this book.

the curse by emily bold
rated PG

(mild violence, romantic tension, kissing, and brief suggestive content)

AUTHOR EMILY BOLD

 

THE CURSE: TOUCH OF ETERNITY (BOOK 1)

 

A centuries-old curse, a mysterious amulet, and a young love reignite a vendetta that had died down long ago…

When seventeen-year-old Samantha goes on a school-exchange trip to Scotland, she takes with her an old pendant that she found amongst her grandmother’s belongings. As soon as she arrives at her host family’s home, she is drawn into the country’s tales and myths. Then she meets the dangerously attractive Payton –a mysterious Highlander who soon conquers Sam’s heart. Caught up in her feelings, she doesn’t realize how much danger she’s in. Payton’s past holds a dark secret. A secret that has bound together both their families’ fates for hundreds of years and is now also endangering Sam’s life.

Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...

The Curse: Touch of Eternity by Emily Bold is an intriguing blend of fantasy, romance, and time-travel, making it an excellent choice for readers who enjoy stories that combine magical elements with rich character development. The novel follows the journey of a young woman who becomes entangled in an ancient curse that spans across centuries, weaving together the past, present, and future. Bold's world-building and intricate plotlines keep readers hooked, while the themes of fate, love, and sacrifice resonate throughout the story. The romantic aspect is prominent but balanced by the action and suspense of the plot, offering a compelling narrative for both teen and adult readers. Regarding content, The Curse: Touch of Eternity contains mild romantic moments but no explicit sexual content. The romantic relationships are integral to the story, but the focus remains on emotional connections rather than physical intimacy. The book does contain some darker themes and moments of danger, particularly relating to the curse and the challenges the characters face. However, the tone is not overly graphic or intense, making it suitable for older teens or readers who enjoy clean, yet emotionally deep, romance within a fantastical context. The book's blend of fantasy and romance, combined with its thrilling, time-bending plot, makes it an excellent choice for families seeking a story with magical intrigue and a strong, character-driven narrative.

AUTHORS K. F. BREENE & SHANNON MAYER    SHADOWSPELL ACADEMY
rated PG

(contains mild violence, dark themes, romantic tension, kissing, and some suggestive content)

AUTHORS K. F. BREENE & SHANNON MAYER

 

SHADOWSPELL ACADEMY (BOOK 1)

You Don’t Choose The Academy. The Academy Chooses You.

I had no idea how those words would change my life. Or how they’d changed my life already…

 

Until the day the most dangerous man I’ve ever met waltzed onto my farm and left us a death sentence.

In an invitation.

 

My younger brother has been chosen for the prestigious, secret magical school hidden within the folds of our mundane world. A place so dangerous, they don’t guarantee you’ll make it out alive.If he doesn't go our entire family will be killed.

 

It’s the same invitation my older brother received three years ago—the same place he mysteriously died.

The academy has already killed one sibling. I’ll be damned if they take another.

I do the only thing an older sister can: chop off my hair, strap on two bras to flatten the girls, and take my brother’s place.

 

Magic and monsters are real. Assassins are coming for me, and the dead are prone to rise. What’s a girl faking it as a boy supposed to do? That’s right—beat the academy at its own game.

 

Or die trying.

Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...

Shadowspell Academy by K.F. Breene and Shannon Mayer is a captivating blend of magic, adventure, and mystery, making it a great pick for readers who enjoy fast-paced fantasy with strong world-building and engaging characters. The story follows a young woman attending a magical academy, where she must navigate a world filled with powerful spells, dangerous creatures, and hidden secrets. The academy setting provides ample opportunities for character growth, exciting challenges, and a touch of rivalry. The plot is exciting and easy to follow, perfect for readers who enjoy a combination of school-based magic, mystery, and character-driven drama. As for content, Shadowspell Academy features some mild romantic elements and action-driven suspense. While there are moments of attraction and chemistry between characters, there is no explicit sexual content. The romance is more focused on emotional connections, with a few hints of tension or attraction between characters, but the main focus is on the adventure and the protagonist’s journey. The book is suitable for older teens and young adults, offering an exciting and engaging fantasy experience without crossing into graphic or inappropriate material. This makes it a good choice for readers and families looking for an enjoyable, lighthearted fantasy series that still delivers on the thrill and excitement of magical adventures.

AUTHOR KRISTEN BRITAIN   GREEN RIDER
rated PG

(contains moderate fantasy violence, an attempted sexual assault, and minimal swearing)

AUTHOR KRISTEN BRITAIN
 
GREEN RIDER (BOOK 1)

Magic, danger, and adventure abound for messenger Karigan G'ladheon in the first book of the New York Times-bestselling Green Rider fantasy series 

On her long journey home from school after a fight that will surely lead to her expulsion, Karigan G'ladheon ponders her uncertain future. As she trudges through the immense Green Cloak forest, her thoughts are interrupted by the clattering of hooves, as a galloping horse bursts from the woods.

The rider is slumped over his mount's neck, impaled by two black-shafted arrows. As the young man lies dying on the road, he tells Karigan he is a Green Rider, one of the legendary messengers of the king of Sacoridia.

Before he dies, he begs Karigan to deliver the “life and death” message he bears to King Zachary. When she reluctantly he agrees, he makes her swear on his sword to complete his mission, whispering with his dying breath, “Beware the shadow man...”

Taking on the golden-winged horse brooch that is the symbol of the Green Riders, Karigan is swept into a world of deadly danger and complex magic, her life forever changed. Compelled by forces she cannot understand, Karigan is accompanied by the silent specter of the fallen messenger and hounded by dark beings bent on seeing that the message, and its reluctant carrier, never reach their destination.

Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...

The Green Rider by Kristen Britain is a fantastic pick for families and readers who love epic fantasy filled with adventure, magic, and courageous heroines. It follows Karigan G’ladheon, a young woman who unexpectedly becomes part of an elite group of magical messengers serving the king. With talking horses, ancient evil, and plenty of political intrigue, it’s a gripping story that’s both accessible to teens and satisfying for adult fantasy fans. Its themes of bravery, loyalty, and moral growth make it a solid choice for families looking for stories that emphasize character and perseverance, especially with a female protagonist who grows into her strength over the series. That said, The Green Rider does include content that may concern some parents. There is moderate fantasy violence throughout, and early in the book there’s an attempted sexual assault—not graphic, but emotionally intense and worth noting for sensitive readers. Romance is present in the series but remains fairly clean, with no explicit sexual scenes. There’s minimal swearing, and most of the darker elements are handled with care and don't overwhelm the overall tone of the book. For readers mid-teens and up, especially those ready for a sweeping fantasy series with strong moral grounding, The Green Rider can be an exciting and meaningful journey.

gateway to fourline by pam brondos
rated G

(developing romance, mild fantasy violence, and little to no swearing)

AUTHOR PAM BRONDOS

 

GATEWAY TO FOURLINE

 

Years before, a gateway opened between their world and ours. Sending one young woman through may be the key to survival for the kingdom of Fourline.

 

Strapped for cash, college student Natalie Barns agrees to take a job at a costume shop. Sure, Estos—her classmate who works in the shop—is a little odd, but Nat needs the money for her tuition.

Then she stumbles through the mysterious door behind the shop—and her entire universe transforms.

Discovering there’s far more to Estos than she ever imagined, Nat gets swept up in an adventure to save his homeland, an incredible world filled with decaying magic, deadly creatures, and a noble resistance of exiled warriors battling dark forces. As she struggles with her role in an epic conflict and wrestles with her growing affection for a young rebel, Soris, Nat quickly learns that nothing may go as planned…and her biggest challenge may be surviving long enough to make it home.

Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...

Pam Brondos’s Gateway to Fourline is an exciting portal fantasy that offers a rich blend of adventure, magic, and coming-of-age themes, making it a great choice for teens and families alike. The story follows college student Natalie Barns, who stumbles upon a gateway to a war-torn magical realm. As Natalie navigates this new world, she’s forced to face her fears, uncover her strengths, and make difficult choices—classic elements of a fantasy tale that encourage both escapism and emotional growth. With its engaging plot and relatable protagonist, this series is ideal for readers who enjoy courageous heroines, immersive world-building, and high-stakes action. In terms of content, Gateway to Fourline is fairly clean and appropriate for older teens. There are elements of violence tied to the fantasy battles and conflict, but they’re not overly graphic. Romantic tension exists, but the series avoids explicit sexual content, instead focusing on emotional connections and character development. It’s a thoughtful, well-paced fantasy that steers clear of heavy or mature themes, making it a safe and enjoyable read for families looking for a fantasy series that’s both adventurous and age-appropriate.

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