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FANTASY
Authors C
At a Glance
(mild romance, minimal implied intimacy, gentle fantasy violence, and clean language)
AUTHOR NICOLECLAIRE C.
GUARDIANS OF GLYNDOR
A new comfort fantasy series, written for adults who never stopped believing in magic.
Sixteen-year-old Jesse trusts only what he can prove. Numbers, logic, patterns. Emily trusts what she feels. People, animals, and books no one else can read.
When they’re swept into Glyndor, a hidden magical school perched atop a whale’s tail, they find a world in decay. The creatures are vanishing. The guardians are gone. The magic is fading.
The only clue is Emily's visions of the world ending, and Jesse is in all of them.
This isn't middle grade or YA. It's a return ticket for grown-ups who miss the feeling of discovering Narnia or Hogwarts for the first time. For the ones who still queue for Disney rides and feel whole again when Magic Kingdom fireworks light the sky.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Guardians of Glyndor: The Disappearing Creatures could be a great choice for families who enjoy fantasy stories with magical creatures, friendship, and mystery in a school setting. The content stays firmly within family-friendly boundaries, with only mild romantic elements and no explicit scenes. The tone is whimsical and adventurous, offering young readers a safe and imaginative escape without worrying about intense violence, profanity, or graphic content. It’s especially appealing to readers who enjoy stories like Harry Potter or Keeper of the Lost Cities but want something a bit lighter in tone. That said, families looking for books with more complex themes, deeper emotional challenges, or moral ambiguity might find this one more straightforward or geared toward a younger mindset. The romantic tension is minimal and age-appropriate, and the story’s conflicts tend to stay within the realm of magical mishaps rather than darker human experiences. For readers who crave intense drama, gritty realism, or psychological depth, this series might not fully satisfy, but for many families, that’s precisely what makes it a comfortable and enjoyable pick.
(features budding romance, violent fantasy including plague, death-by‑euthanasia with occasional gore, and occasional mild profanity)
AUTHOR ERIN A. CRAIG
THE THIRTEENTH CHILD
#1 NEW YORK TIMES AND USA TODAY BESTSELLER • Drawing on the Grimm Brothers’ dark fairytale “Godfather Death,” this sweeping novel from the author of House of Salt and Sorrows is a fantastical saga of actions and consequences.
“A dark, delicious treat from start to finish.”—Kendare Blake, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Three Dark Crowns
All gifts come with a price.
Hazel Trépas has always known she wasn’t like the rest of her siblings. A thirteenth child, promised away to one of the gods, she spends her childhood waiting for her godfather—Merrick, the Dreaded End—to arrive.
When he does, he lays out exactly how he’s planned Hazel’s future. She will become a great healer, known throughout the kingdom for her precision and skill. To aid her endeavors, Merrick blesses Hazel with a gift, the ability to instantly deduce the exact cure needed to treat the sick.
But all gifts come with a price. Hazel can see when Death has claimed a patient—when all hope is gone—and is tasked to end their suffering, permanently. Haunted by the ghosts of those she’s killed, Hazel longs to run. But destiny brings her to the royal court, where she meets Leo, a rakish prince with a disdain for everything and everyone. And it’s where Hazel faces her biggest dilemma yet—to save the life of a king marked to die. Hazel knows what she is meant to do and knows what her heart is urging her toward, but what will happen if she goes against the will of Death?
From the astonishing mind of Erin A. Craig comes the breathtaking fairy tale retelling readers have been waiting for—what does a life well-lived mean, and how do we justify the impossible choices we make for the ones we love? The Thirteenth Child is a must-read for fans of dark fairy tales, romantasy, and epic fantasy alike.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Thirteenth Child by Erin A. Craig is a compelling choice for readers who enjoy eerie fairy tale retellings with a dark, atmospheric twist. It weaves a gripping tale of mystery, curses, and a family torn by strange deaths and secrets. The story is rich in gothic tone and emotional tension, featuring a strong, determined protagonist and a slow-burn romantic subplot that’s appropriate for teens. While the romance includes occasional kisses and references to attraction, it avoids graphic sexual content. The book also explores important themes like trust, grief, and resilience, which can provide meaningful discussions for families who enjoy stories with depth and complexity. However, this book may not be the best fit for all families, particularly those concerned about darker content. It includes intense scenes involving illness, death, implied euthanasia, and some frightening imagery that could be unsettling for sensitive readers. There’s also occasional mild profanity and references to mental instability. While the romantic elements are generally tame, the overall mood is quite somber, and the book leans into its horror and suspense roots. Families who prefer lighter themes or who are cautious about mature emotional content may want to preview the story before sharing it with younger readers.
(mild romance, some dark themes, fantasy violence, and minimal swearing)
AUTHOR JANEY LEE CAREY
DRAGON'S KEEP
“In stunning, lyrical prose,” this YA fantasy “tells the story of Rosalind, a twelfth-century princess destined for greatness by a prophecy from Merlin” (Booklist, starred review).
For generations, an exiled line of the royal Pendragon family has ruled Wilde Island. But now that distant isle is plagued by a dragon. So it is no small matter that Princess Rosalind was born with a dragon claw where her ring finger should be.
To hide this secret, Queen Gweneth requires her daughter to wear golden gloves at all times until a cure can be found. Only then can Rosalind can fulfill a centuries-old prophecy that will restore her family to its rightful throne.
But Rosalind’s flaw cannot be separated from her fate. When she is carried off by the dragon, everything she thought she knew falls apart . . .
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Janet Lee Carey’s Dragon’s Keep is a beautifully written fantasy novel that blends elements of medieval legend, magic, and personal transformation—making it a compelling choice for both teen readers and families. The story follows Princess Rosalind, who hides a dragon’s claw where her ring finger should be, a secret that could destroy her in a kingdom obsessed with perfection. As Rosalind’s world unravels and she is taken by dragons, she must learn to embrace her true self. With themes of identity, acceptance, and inner strength, this book offers young readers a powerful message wrapped in a rich, fairy-tale setting. Content-wise, Dragon’s Keep is well-suited for middle school and up. There are moments of suspense, danger, and a few intense scenes involving dragons and human conflict, but nothing overly graphic or disturbing. Romance exists as a subplot but remains very mild and age-appropriate. There is no sexual content, making this a safe and inspiring read for younger teens or for family discussion. Its blend of lyrical prose and thoughtful themes makes Dragon’s Keep a standout for those who enjoy strong heroines and classic fantasy.
(Some violence, romance, and mild religious themes)
AUTHOR RAE CARSON
THE GIRL OF FIRE AND THORNS
“Rae Carson has proved she’s a master and has shaken up the YA genre.”—USAToday.com
Once a century, one person is chosen for greatness.
Elisa is the chosen one. But she has always felt powerless, useless. Now, on her sixteenth birthday, she has become the secret wife of a handsome and worldly king—a king whose country is in turmoil. A king who needs her to be the chosen one, not a failure of a princess.
And he’s not the only one who seeks her. Fierce enemies, seething with dark magic, are hunting her. A daring, determined revolutionary thinks she could be his people’s savior. Soon it is not just her life, but her very heart that is at stake.
Elisa could be everything to those who need her most. If the prophecy is fulfilled. If she finds the power deep within herself. If she doesn’t die young. Most of the chosen do.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Rae Carson’s The Girl of Fire and Thorns is an empowering and beautifully written fantasy novel that centers around Elisa, a reluctant princess who discovers her inner strength and purpose over the course of an epic journey. The story weaves together elements of adventure, political intrigue, faith, and self-discovery in a way that resonates deeply with readers of all ages, especially teens looking for a strong, relatable heroine. Elisa begins the story as an insecure girl unsure of her worth, but through trials and challenges, she grows into a courageous and capable leader—making this an inspiring series for readers who enjoy character growth and rich world-building. In terms of content, The Girl of Fire and Thorns includes some romantic elements and references to marriage, but any sexual content is handled with subtlety and sensitivity. There is one scene implying consummation between married characters, but it is not explicit and is more focused on the emotional weight than physical detail. The book does contain violence related to war and rebellion, but it's appropriate to the story and not gratuitous. Overall, this series is a great fit for older teens and adults who enjoy intelligent, heart-driven fantasy with strong female leads and thoughtful themes of identity, faith, and empowerment.
(contains moderate violence, implied sexual content between unmarried teens, and some mild swearing)
AUTHOR KRISTIN CASHORE
GRACELING
Graceling tells the story of the vulnerable-yet-strong Katsa, who is smart and beautiful and lives in the Seven Kingdoms where selected people are born with a Grace, a special talent that can be anything at all.
Katsa’s Grace is killing. As the king’s niece, she is forced to use her extreme skills as his brutal enforcer. Until the day she meets Prince Po, who is Graced with combat skills, and Katsa’s life begins to change.
She never expects to become Po’s friend. She never expects to learn a new truth about her own Grace—or about a terrible secret that lies hidden far away . . . a secret that could destroy all seven kingdoms with words alone.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Kristin Cashore’s Graceling is a powerful and engaging fantasy novel that introduces readers to a richly imagined world where certain individuals are born with special abilities, called Graces. The story follows Katsa, a young woman Graced with the ability to fight, who begins to question the life of violence she’s been forced into and ultimately seeks to forge her own path. With themes of self-discovery, independence, and moral choice, Graceling offers an empowering narrative—especially for teens and adults who appreciate complex heroines and emotionally intelligent storytelling. The series as a whole continues to explore nuanced characters and ethical dilemmas, making it an intellectually satisfying and entertaining read for families who enjoy fantasy. Regarding content, Graceling does include a romantic relationship that becomes physical, but the sexual content is handled tastefully and is not described in explicit detail. The story focuses far more on emotional connection and Katsa’s struggle to understand intimacy on her own terms. The book also explores mature themes such as personal agency and standing up against abuse of power, which can lead to great discussions for older teen readers. Overall, the series balances action, romance, and character development in a thoughtful way, making it a good choice for families seeking a smart, female-driven fantasy series.
(tame romantic tension, mild swearing, moderate magical violence and emotional trauma, and dark themes of power struggle)
AUTHOR MELANIE CELLIER
SEEDS OF GLORY AND RUIN (BOOK 1)
Two sisters. Two seeds of power. One Mage's Guild, and an unprecedented new power—but which sister does it belong to?
Cadence and her sister possess the seeds of glory and ruin—or so their father always insisted. Cadence never understood what he meant until Airlie’s seed of power is activated, turning her into the most powerful mage in generations. Despite knowing it must mean her own dormant seed is much more malevolent, Cadence is swept away to the distant Mage’s Guild in her sister’s wake. She’s used to living in Airlie’s shadow, but she can’t see a place for herself in this new world.
Nor can she believe in the apparent interest of the charming Zeke. No one has ever chosen her over her beautiful sister.
But leaving her new home isn’t an option. Plagued by questions from her isolated childhood, Cadence needs answers, and the Guild might hold them. But as the revelations grow, Cadence must find a way to conceal the truth from her new companions before the sisters’ secrets turn everyone against them.
And as word of Airlie’s power spreads, new danger emerges. Across the kingdom’s border, a threat is growing among the ruins of their former neighbor—enemies who will do anything to get their hands on the sisters and the seeds they contain. No longer able to shelter behind Airlie, Cadence must make a choice. Will she embrace her power—whatever it might be—or pursue a different path?
If you enjoy strong heroines, fantasy worlds, sibling dynamics, adventure, and clean romance, then try this new world now!
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Seeds of Glory and Ruin by Melanie Cellier may be a great choice for families looking for clean, character-driven fantasy with strong female leads and a thoughtful exploration of power and identity. The story centers on magic, personal growth, and complex political dynamics in a richly built world. While there is romantic tension, it remains entirely clean and appropriate, with no explicit sexual content. The violence is rooted in magical conflict and emotional stakes, but it avoids graphic depictions. This book balances action, character development, and worldbuilding in a way that appeals to thoughtful readers who enjoy fantasy without mature or explicit content. On the other hand, this book may not suit families or readers who prefer fast-paced plots with lots of romance or intense action. While there is conflict, the pace leans toward deliberate and introspective, which might not appeal to those seeking quick thrills. Additionally, the political intrigue and magical hierarchy may feel complex for readers unaccustomed to layered worldbuilding. The themes of manipulation and emotional struggle can be heavy at times, even though they’re handled with care. Overall, Seeds of Glory and Ruin offers a safe and thoughtful fantasy journey, best for readers ready to engage with moral questions and character growth rather than romantic or violent spectacle.
(mild romance with kissing, light fantasy peril and no swearing)
AUTHOR MELANIE CELLIER
TIES OF LEGACY
A merchant girl with a life of freedom.
A young man who just wants to settle down.
A journey through three enchanted kingdoms.
As a roving merchant—or peddler, as many call her—Avery lives a life of freedom that few ever experience. She can navigate the enchanted landscapes of six kingdoms, and she’s an expert at finding unique items and matching them with the right customer. If her traveling lifestyle means she doesn’t have any close friends, at least she can help communities in need. And it’s worth it not to be tied down. She might be alone, but that doesn’t mean she’s lonely.
Elliot would love to be tied to his birth kingdom like most people. Such a restriction might be limiting, but it would be better than being bound to a candelabra—especially once that candelabra gets stolen. With his life on the line, Elliot has to find it—or whatever is left of it.
The last thing Avery wants is a pesky stowaway on her cross-kingdom rescue mission—especially not one who claims he’s bound to one of the items in her cart. Elliot is equally unhappy to be trailing her through the kingdoms—he’s sick of traveling and ready to put down roots. But Avery has promised to help free him from the ties binding him, and he’s willing to make a final journey if it means being free of the candelabra. He’ll just have to make sure his heart doesn’t form its own tie with his beautiful traveling companion. Should be easy, right?
Ties of Legacy is book one in Tethered Hearts, a multi-author series of no spice fantasy romances. Each standalone story features a magical bond that forces the couple to discover how much they’re willing to sacrifice for the sake of love.
This standalone story is set in the world of Melanie Cellier’s Kingdoms of Legacy series.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Ties of Legacy is a fun, clean fantasy story that’s perfect for readers who love magic, strong friendships, and a sweet slow-burn romance. There’s no explicit content—just a few kisses and heartfelt moments—and the tone stays light and hopeful, even during tense scenes. If your family prefers books that are uplifting, wholesome, and completely free of swearing or anything too intense, this one definitely fits the bill. On the other hand, if you're looking for something super light and fluffy with no danger at all, this series does have a little action and magical conflict. It’s never gory or scary, but there are scenes where characters are in trouble or facing tough choices. Some readers might prefer something without any suspense at all—but overall, the story stays pretty family-friendly.
(kissing, some violence, and no swearing)
AUTHOR MELANIE CELLIER
LEGACY OF ROSES
A merchant’s daughter who knows better than to pick roses.
A royal with no interest in becoming an enchanted prince.
A Legacy determined to force them into a story neither wants.
Rosalie’s family has already lost everything, and she’s willing to do whatever it takes to protect them from further harm. Even if that means stopping ignorant newcomers from picking enchanted roses.
Dimitri knows little about his new kingdom, and he can’t help being captivated by the fiery girl who holds the answers. But Rosalie seems horrified by both his presence and his handsome face, and it turns out she has good reason. In the kingdom of Glandore, it’s a dangerous thing to be a young man of royal blood living alone in a castle. Almost as dangerous as being the youngest daughter of a merchant.
Enter a world where tales of the past shape the enchanted landscape—where glass can bend like a slipper and picking a rose courts danger. A world where the inhabitants must overcome the fabled Legacies as they find romance, adventure, and friendship.
Note, this series is comprised of interconnected stand-alones. However, for greatest enjoyment, it is recommended to read them in order.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Melanie Cellier’s Legacy of Roses and the accompanying series offer a wholesome and imaginative escape into a world of magic, intrigue, and quiet strength. Known for her clean and uplifting fantasy, Cellier crafts stories with strong, intelligent heroines who rely on courage, kindness, and inner strength to navigate magical kingdoms and political challenges. Legacy of Roses continues this tradition with a richly woven plot full of secrets, royal twists, and slow-burning romance. It’s a perfect pick for readers who love fairy-tale-inspired stories and character-driven narratives that emphasize personal growth and doing what's right, even when it's hard. In terms of content, this series is refreshingly clean and family-friendly. There is romantic tension and sweet chemistry between characters, but there’s no explicit sexual content—just heartfelt moments and tender connections that develop gradually. This makes Legacy of Roses an ideal choice for families, younger teens, and readers who appreciate fantasy that is engaging and emotionally resonant without pushing into mature territory. It’s a great blend of magic, moral lessons, and uplifting storytelling that can be comfortably shared across generations.
(contains mild fantasy violence, light romantic elements, and no explicit sexual content or strong language)
AUTHOR ADINA CHILES
SECRETS OF A ROSE (BOOK 1)
A kingdom built with secrets is bound to unravel.
During the month of Amira, the silver moon emerges, and the kingdom of Zyra comes alive with anticipation for its annual ball. Mellana Goodwick, finally at the rightful age of sixteen, receives her first invitation, but when unexpected events take place, immediate regret sets in. Mellana finds herself caught in a strange storm—casting down green lightning and filling the sky with ear-splitting thunder. To make matters worse, the kingdom comes under attack by Prince Lorian, a man removed from the line of succession for murdering his sister, the future queen, and her newborn child.
After escaping the attack with her best friends, Mellana stumbles upon a box left by a woman named Rose. With the power to see glimpses of the future, Rose warns Mellana of hidden powers the kingdom has covered up and Lorian’s desire to unleash them all. Rose instructs Mellana to gather the sacred article from each of the seven kingdoms before Lorian and his deadly group can gain access to them. Together, the items unlock a barrier that is meant to stay shut.
In Secrets of a Rose, Mellana will discover remarkable abilities that stir around her and some that even rise within. In order to keep what she loves, she must embark on a race against the person who dares to threaten it all.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Secrets of a Rose by Adina Chiles could be a great choice for readers and families looking for a fantasy adventure that steers clear of graphic content. The story offers a compelling mix of magic, intrigue, and character growth, with a heroine who must navigate a world of secrets and political tension. Romance is present but kept light and appropriate, serving to deepen character relationships without overshadowing the main plot. There’s no explicit sexual content, and language is clean, making it a comfortable fit for readers who enjoy immersive fantasy without worrying about mature or inappropriate scenes. On the other hand, families who prefer stories grounded in realism or who are wary of fantasy elements such as magical powers, court intrigue, or dark magical threats might find the book less appealing. There are moments of danger and fantasy violence, such as battles and magical confrontations, though these scenes are generally not graphic or disturbing. For some readers, particularly those very sensitive to conflict or suspense, these elements might be a concern. However, for most who enjoy a clean fantasy read with empowering themes and a strong female lead, Secrets of a Rose strikes a thoughtful balance between excitement and appropriate content.
(intense fantasy violence, slow‑burn romance with implied sexual tension, occasional coarse language, and themes of slavery)
AUTHOR KRISTEN CICCARELLI
THE LAST NAMSARA
From Kristen Ciccarelli, New York Times bestselling author of the Crimson Moth duology (The Heartless Hunter and Rebel Witch), comes the first installment of a soaring dragon fantasy trilogy about a girl who must hunt the creature that destroyed her town and caused her own ostracism from society.
In the beginning, there was the Namsara: the child of sky and spirit, who carried love and laughter wherever he went. But where there is light, there must be darkness—and so there was also the Iskari. The child of blood and moonlight. The destroyer. The death-bringer.
These are the legends that Asha, daughter of the king of Firgaard, has grown up learning in hushed whispers, drawn to the forbidden figures of the past. But it isn’t until she becomes the fiercest, most feared dragon slayer in the land that she takes on the role of the next Iskari—a lonely destiny that leaves her feeling more like a weapon than a girl.
Asha conquers each dragon and brings its head to the king, but no kill can free her from the shackles that await at home: her betrothal to the cruel commandant, a man who holds the truth about her nature in his palm.
When she’s offered the chance to gain her freedom in exchange for the life of the most powerful dragon in Firgaard, she finds that there may be more truth to the ancient stories than she ever could have expected. With the help of a secret friend—a slave boy from her betrothed’s household—Asha must shed the layers of her Iskari bondage and open her heart to love, light, and a truth that has been kept from her.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Last Namsara by Kristen Ciccarelli offers a richly woven fantasy world filled with fierce dragons, complex family dynamics, and a heroine on a journey of self‑discovery. The novel’s strength lies in its immersive storytelling and the way it explores themes of honor, identity, and resilience. Readers who appreciate intense adventures and strong character arcs will find the battle scenes—complete with dragon slaying and magical combat—thrilling rather than gratuitous. The slow‑burn romance is woven subtly into the narrative, focusing on developing trust and emotional bonds without delving into graphic detail. Occasional coarse language furthers the sense of a gritty, high‑stakes environment without overwhelming the story. For families who enjoy epic fantasy with heartfelt growth and a touch of romantic tension, this book can spark engaging discussions about courage and loyalty. On the other hand, the novel’s darker elements may make it a less comfortable choice for those who prefer lighter or more straightforward tales. The violence, while central to the plot, includes depictions of torture, slavery, and the aftermath of brutal battles—scenes that, though not graphically detailed, carry an emotional weight that some readers might find unsettling. The world’s harsh realities and moral ambiguities can challenge readers who favor clear-cut good‑versus‑evil stories. Although the romance remains chaste in portrayal, its emotional intensity may still feel mature for those seeking purely action‑driven adventure without romantic undertones.
(moderate violence, political intrigue, sensual romance with implied sex, and occasional swearing)
AUTHOR CASSANDRA CLARE
SWORD CATCHER (BOOK 1)
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Two outcasts find themselves caught in a web of dangerous magic and dark secrets that could change the world forever in the start of a riveting epic fantasy series from the author of The Shadowhunter Chronicles.
In the vibrant city-state of Castellane, the richest of nobles and the most debauched of criminals have one thing in common: the constant search for wealth, power, and the next hedonistic thrill.
Kel is an orphan, stolen from the life he knew to become the Sword Catcher—the body double of a royal heir, Prince Conor Aurelian. He and Conor are as close as brothers, but his destiny is to die for Conor. No other future is possible.
Lin Caster is a physician from a small community whose members still possess magical abilities. But despite her skills, she cannot heal her best friend without access to forbidden knowledge.
After a failed assassination attempt brings Lin and Kel together, they are drawn into the web of the mysterious Ragpicker King, the ruler of Castellane’s criminal underworld. But as long-kept secrets begin to unravel and forbidden attractions arise, they must ask themselves: Is knowledge worth the price of betrayal? And will their discoveries plunge their nation into war—and the world into chaos?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Sword Catcher by Cassandra Clare could be a good choice for readers who enjoy rich world-building, complex political intrigue, and emotionally driven characters. The story weaves together themes of loyalty, identity, and forbidden love in a fantasy setting that feels both immersive and mature. Romance plays a central role, with characters navigating complicated relationships that add emotional depth. While the romantic content leans toward sensual, it’s mostly implied rather than graphic, making it more about emotional connection than explicit detail. For families comfortable with some mature themes handled in a subtle, narrative-driven way, this book could be an exciting and rewarding read. However, it may not be the best fit for readers or families sensitive to darker content. The book includes moderate violence typical of high fantasy, including fights, injuries, and political betrayal. There is some swearing and sexual content, though nothing highly explicit—it’s more suggestive than descriptive. Still, the romantic and violent elements might feel too intense for readers who prefer lighter fare or who are not ready to engage with morally complex characters and mature themes. Families who prioritize cleaner content or who wish to avoid stories with romantic tension and implied intimacy might want to preview the book before handing it off to younger or more impressionable readers.
(contains moderate violence, mild sensuality, some innuendo, and occasional swearing)
AUTHOR JESSICA CLUESS
A SHADOW BRIGHT AND BURNING
I am Henrietta Howel.
The first female sorcerer in hundreds of years.
The prophesied one.
Or am I?
Henrietta Howel can burst into flames.
Forced to reveal her power to save a friend, she's shocked when instead of being executed, she's invited to train as one of Her Majesty's royal sorcerers.
Thrust into the glamour of Victorian London, Henrietta is declared the chosen one, the girl who will defeat the Ancients, bloodthirsty demons terrorizing humanity. She also meets her fellow sorcerer trainees, handsome young men eager to test her power and her heart. One will challenge her. One will fight for her. One will betray her.
But Henrietta Howel is not the chosen one.
As she plays a dangerous game of deception, she discovers that the sorcerers have their own secrets to protect. With battle looming, what does it mean to not be the one? And how much will she risk to save the city—and the one she loves?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Jessica Cluess’s A Shadow Bright and Burning and its series offer a thrilling blend of historical fantasy, magic, and monsters that will captivate fans of stories like Harry Potter or The Infernal Devices. Set in Victorian England, the series follows a fierce and determined heroine who may be the prophesied savior of a world torn apart by ancient, otherworldly beasts. With compelling characters, mysterious magical lore, and just the right dose of dark danger, the series draws readers in with high stakes, witty banter, and plenty of heart. It’s especially appealing to teens and young adults who enjoy strong female leads, magical academies, and stories about discovering one’s true power and place in the world. In terms of content, A Shadow Bright and Burning is a relatively clean read. While it does contain romantic tension and some emotionally intense scenes, any sexual content remains mild and is handled with restraint. There’s no graphic material, making it appropriate for older teens and even younger readers who are ready for slightly darker themes without stepping into mature territory. With its blend of action, magic, and meaningful character arcs, the series provides an engaging, age-appropriate fantasy experience that’s great for both solo reading and family discussions.
(contains mild violence, crime themes, and some rude humor but no romance or sensual content)
Editor's
Favorite
AUTHOR EOIN COLFER
ARTEMIS FOWL
Now an original movie on Disney+, here is the book that started it all, the international bestseller about a teenage criminal mastermind and his siege against dangerous, tech-savvy fairies.
New York Times best-selling author, Eoin Colfer and series, Artemis Fowl!
Twelve-year-old criminal mastermind Artemis Fowl has discovered a world below ground of armed and dangerous--and extremely high-tech--fairies.
He kidnaps one of them, Holly Short, and holds her for ransom in an effort to restore his family's fortune.
But he may have underestimated the fairies' powers. Is he about to trigger a cross-species war?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Eoin Colfer’s Artemis Fowl series is a fantastic choice for families looking for a fast-paced, clever, and wildly imaginative adventure. The series centers on Artemis, a brilliant twelve-year-old criminal mastermind who gets caught up in the world of fairies, centaurs, dwarves, and high-tech magical beings. It’s packed with humor, heart, and thrilling action sequences that keep readers—both young and old—eager to turn the page. The story beautifully blends mythology with science fiction, making it a fun and accessible series for middle-grade readers, while still offering enough wit and depth to entertain parents or older siblings who join in. As for content, Artemis Fowl is a clean read with no sexual content. The focus remains on friendship, family loyalty, personal growth, and the battle between good and evil, all delivered with a healthy dose of sarcasm and clever dialogue. There's some action-related violence—think fantasy-style battles and comic mischief—but it’s not graphic or disturbing. This makes the series a safe and enjoyable pick for family reading time, classroom book clubs, or any young reader looking for a magical escape with a tech-savvy twist.
(contains mild romance, no sexual content, minimal violence, and little to no swearing)
AUTHOR CAREY CORP AND LORIE LANGDON
DOON
Veronica doesn’t think she’s going crazy. But why can’t anyone else see the mysterious blond boy who keeps popping up wherever she goes?
When her best friend, Mackenna, invites her to spend the summer in Scotland, Veronica jumps at the opportunity to leave her complicated life behind for a few months. But the Scottish countryside holds other plans. Not only has the imaginary kilted boy followed her to Alloway, she and Mackenna uncover a strange set of rings and a very unnerving letter from Mackenna’s great aunt---and when the girls test the instructions Aunt Gracie left behind, they find themselves transported to a land that defies explanation.
Doon seems like a real-life fairy tale, complete with one prince who has eyes for Mackenna and another who looks suspiciously like the boy from Veronica’s daydreams. But Doon has a dark underbelly as well. The two girls could have everything they’ve longed for… or they could end up breaking an enchantment and find themselves trapped in a world that has become a nightmare.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Carey Corp and Lorie Langdon’s Doon series is a magical, romantic adventure that blends contemporary teen life with a whimsical fantasy world inspired by the musical Brigadoon. It follows two best friends who discover a mysterious portal to the hidden kingdom of Doon in Scotland, where destiny, danger, and true love await. With themes of friendship, courage, and self-discovery, this series offers a wonderful blend of fairytale enchantment and coming-of-age struggles that will appeal to both teens and adults. It's especially great for readers who enjoy fantasy with a strong romantic element and a wholesome tone. In terms of content, Doon is a clean read overall. There are romantic relationships and a few swoon-worthy moments, but nothing explicit or inappropriate—just sweet, emotional, slow-burn romance that stays within the bounds of PG or mild PG-13. The focus stays on character growth, choices, and the tension between pursuing one’s calling versus following one’s heart. That balance of clean content, engaging fantasy world-building, and uplifting themes makes this a safe and enjoyable pick for family libraries, book clubs, or any reader looking for a wholesome yet adventurous love story.