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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.
The winding streets and narrow alleys of Karolene hide many secrets, and Hitomi is one of them.
Are some men born evil, no chance of redemption from the moment they draw breath? Perhaps, perhaps not. Grim doesn't seem to think so, and yet, he knows better than to believe that knowledge alone would curb a cruel man's intent... Even if that man is himself.
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.
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FANTASY
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At a Glance
Featured Book
(contains mild romance, some perilous situations, no sexual content, and minimal swearing)
AUTHOR JENNIFER EALEY
THE PALE-FACED MAGE
Sheldrake is a mage. Maud is a shapeshifter. When their son is born, he is completely pale with nearly white eyes: the legacy of a fearsome great-grandmother.
Jayhan grows into a cheery, accident-prone eight-year-old, unhappily aware of his heritage. Soon, a dark-eyed orphan enters his life; rescued from a brutal master to become their stableboy, Sasha's past and present are shrouded in secrets.
The only legacy Sasha has of the past is an obsidian amulet. As secrets of the young stableboy's past slowly come to light, they're all thrown into a world of danger.
With ancient prophecies coming to bear and deadly enemies at all sides, can they uncover the secrets of the dark amulet.. and survive?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Pale-Eyed Mage by Jennifer Ealey could be a great choice for families or younger readers who enjoy epic fantasy with a thoughtful storyline and a strong focus on character development. The book introduces readers to a richly built world of magic, prophecy, and adventure, centered around a young protagonist named Jayhan, whose unique magical heritage sets him apart. The fantasy elements are imaginative and immersive, offering readers a sense of wonder without venturing into overly graphic or mature territory. Because the story centers on a family navigating political intrigue and dark forces, it naturally includes lessons on loyalty, identity, and courage—making it a solid pick for those looking for meaningful yet exciting reading. In terms of content, The Pale-Eyed Mage is a relatively clean read. There is no explicit sexual content or graphic intimacy, which is a major plus for parents who are cautious about what their teens or preteens are exposed to. While the story does contain fantasy violence and dark themes—such as battles and threats posed by magical antagonists—it avoids excessive gore or disturbing imagery. Swearing is minimal to nonexistent, which further supports its suitability for younger audiences or family book clubs. Overall, it’s a safe and engaging entry into high fantasy that balances adventure and character-driven storytelling in a way that respects younger readers' maturity levels.
(a clean, family-friendly book with no explicit sexual content, minimal to no violence, and no swearing)
AUTHOR KRISTY DIXON
MORE THAN ONCE UPON A TIME
Olivia doesn't believe in happily-ever-afters. Tales like that only happen in children’s storybooks. The real world is a harsh, unforgiving place where true love is fiction—Or so she thought.
A chance encounter with a meddling woman catapults Olivia into a whimsical fairy-tale realm, with her playing the part of the reluctant protagonist. Trapped in a land of make-believe, Olivia must navigate each story in her search for a way out.
Within the chapters, she meets Jerron, a fellow romance-jaded captive whose belief in love has dwindled with every scripted romance. Bound by their desire to escape, they team up and discover happiness may be the key to returning home.
Somewhere, among the pages of their adventure, the connection between the pair deepens and their views on love and destiny begin to shift. As they attempt to rewrite a new ending, they come face-to-face with a malevolent darkness lurking within the realm.
Every fairy tale has its villain, and this one seeks to corrupt them… or kill them.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
More Than Once Upon a Time by Kristy Dixon is an excellent choice for families seeking a wholesome, engaging read suitable for a wide range of ages. The story offers a clean narrative free from explicit sexual content, graphic violence, or strong language, making it appropriate for younger readers and enjoyable for adults alike. Its themes likely revolve around friendship, personal growth, and perhaps a touch of romance, all presented in a manner that's accessible and relatable. The book's tone and content suggest it's designed to be both entertaining and meaningful without delving into mature or controversial topics. For families who appreciate stories that can be shared across generations without concern for inappropriate material, this book fits the bill. Its likely emphasis on positive values and character development provides not only an enjoyable reading experience but also opportunities for discussion about important life lessons. Whether read aloud together or individually, More Than Once Upon a Time offers a narrative that's both captivating and appropriate, making it a valuable addition to any family's bookshelf.
(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.
(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 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)
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.
(few swear words, innuendo, fantasy violence, and racy descriptions of characters or clothing)
AUTHOR MICHAEL DARLING
GOT LUCK
Police-officer-turned-private-investigator Goethe "Got" Luck is known for rolling with the punches and never taking anything too seriously. When he picks up a seemingly dead-end murder case, his life begins to take a crazy turn. Shot at, chased by people he has never met, and attacked by an invisible liondog, Got quickly learns that there is more to this world than meets the eye. He discovers the Fae. The Eternals. They who dwell in the Behindbeyond. Once, they ruled over ancient realms, but over the centuries, their power dwindled. Now someone wants to restore their rule and subjugate humankind. All it will cost is thousands of human lives. The clock is ticking. Getting the world out of this one will take a couple friends, more than a few well-placed insults, and a whole lot of Luck.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Michael Darling’s Got Luck series is a witty and imaginative urban fantasy that blends Celtic mythology, clever humor, and fast-paced adventure. It follows Got Luck, a modern-day private investigator who’s suddenly pulled into the magical Otherworld, where fae courts, dangerous creatures, and ancient secrets threaten both realms. With its mix of action, mystery, and folklore, the series is great for readers who enjoy snarky protagonists, inventive worldbuilding, and stories that straddle the line between the magical and the mundane. It’s especially appealing for older teens and adults who appreciate thoughtful fantasy that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Content-wise, Got Luck is clean in terms of sexual content. There are hints of romance and attraction, but nothing graphic or explicit—just light, appropriate flirtation and the occasional reference to adult relationships. The series leans more into humor, mythology, and character development than into anything steamy or risqué. That makes it a solid choice for families or individuals looking for a fantasy series with depth and cleverness but without worrying about mature or explicit content.
(contains violence, moderate romance with mild sensuality, and occasional swearing)
AUTHORS KENLEY DAVIDSON
IN DARKNESS FORGED
For fans of Elise Kova and Sylvia Mercedes, this dark and thrilling romantic fantasy will hold you captive till the very last page!
In a land of darkness and deadly adversaries…
He might just be the deadliest one of all.
Burdened by a debt she can never hope to repay, Aislin is sent by her cruel lord to the mysterious land of Dunmaren, where she must beg the night elves for a single favor. The shapeshifters demand a steep price, but Aislin will do anything to save her family—even travel alone into a nightmare forest filled with monsters.
Except she isn't quite alone...
Talyn's magic is as deadly as his blades, but he lives only for his chance at revenge. Betrayed and imprisoned by his night elf kin, his only hope of freedom is to serve as guide and bodyguard to a human woman foolish enough to enter the perilous depths of the Darkspring.
Talyn wants nothing to do with a weak and useless human. In Dunmaren, only the strong survive, and soft things are easily broken. But Aislin defies his expectations at every turn, and what he once believed to be weakness might just prove the key to their survival.
In the shadows beneath the earth, an unlikely bond is forged between the renegade night elf and the fiercely determined human. But few ever return from the depths, and it will take more than stubbornness and steel to defeat the enemy that awaits them at the very heart of the Darkspring.
In Darkness Forged is a standalone night elf romance with a sweet, slow-burn love story and a happily-ever-after ending. If you loved A Deal With the Elf King or The Bridge Kingdom, don’t miss this swoon-worthy tale of sacrifice, redemption, and revenge.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Kenley Davidson’s In Darkness Forged and its series offer a rich, character-driven fantasy perfect for readers who enjoy stories of personal growth, loyalty, and light romance woven into a high-stakes adventure. The world-building is immersive, featuring elemental magic, political intrigue, and a slow-burn plot that rewards patient readers. The main characters wrestle with meaningful challenges—both internal and external—making the series resonate emotionally without ever being overwhelming. It’s a great fit for both teens and adults who appreciate thoughtful fantasy with a strong moral compass and relatable protagonists. As far as content goes, In Darkness Forged is clean and family-friendly. There is no sexual content, and romantic elements remain sweet and subtle, focused more on emotional connection and trust than anything physical. Violence is present in the context of battle and conflict, but it’s not gratuitous or graphic. The series is an excellent choice for families looking for a wholesome yet exciting fantasy read, full of heart, hope, and well-developed characters who rise to meet their destiny.
(a clean, family-friendly book with no explicit sexual content, minimal to no violence, and no swearing)
AUTHOR KRISTY DIXON
MORE THAN ONCE UPON A TIME
Olivia doesn't believe in happily-ever-afters. Tales like that only happen in children’s storybooks. The real world is a harsh, unforgiving place where true love is fiction—Or so she thought.
A chance encounter with a meddling woman catapults Olivia into a whimsical fairy-tale realm, with her playing the part of the reluctant protagonist. Trapped in a land of make-believe, Olivia must navigate each story in her search for a way out.
Within the chapters, she meets Jerron, a fellow romance-jaded captive whose belief in love has dwindled with every scripted romance. Bound by their desire to escape, they team up and discover happiness may be the key to returning home.
Somewhere, among the pages of their adventure, the connection between the pair deepens and their views on love and destiny begin to shift. As they attempt to rewrite a new ending, they come face-to-face with a malevolent darkness lurking within the realm.
Every fairy tale has its villain, and this one seeks to corrupt them… or kill them.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
More Than Once Upon a Time by Kristy Dixon is an excellent choice for families seeking a wholesome, engaging read suitable for a wide range of ages. The story offers a clean narrative free from explicit sexual content, graphic violence, or strong language, making it appropriate for younger readers and enjoyable for adults alike. Its themes likely revolve around friendship, personal growth, and perhaps a touch of romance, all presented in a manner that's accessible and relatable. The book's tone and content suggest it's designed to be both entertaining and meaningful without delving into mature or controversial topics. For families who appreciate stories that can be shared across generations without concern for inappropriate material, this book fits the bill. Its likely emphasis on positive values and character development provides not only an enjoyable reading experience but also opportunities for discussion about important life lessons. Whether read aloud together or individually, More Than Once Upon a Time offers a narrative that's both captivating and appropriate, making it a valuable addition to any family's bookshelf.
(contains mild romance, some violence, no sexual content, and minimal swearing)
AUTHOR BRENDA DRAKE
THIEF OF LIES (BOOK 1)
Gia Kearns would rather fight with boys than kiss them. That is, until Arik, a leather clad hottie in the Boston Athenaeum, suddenly disappears. While examining the book of world libraries he abandoned, Gia unwittingly speaks the key that sucks her and her friends into a photograph and transports them into a Paris library, where Arik and his Sentinels-magical knights charged with protecting humans from the creatures traveling across the gateway books-rescue them from a demonic hound.
Jumping into some of the world's most beautiful libraries would be a dream come true for Gia, if she weren't busy resisting her heart or dodging an exiled wizard seeking revenge on both the Mystik and human worlds. Add a French flirt obsessed with Arik and a fling with a young wizard, and Gia must choose between her heart and her head, between Arik's world and her own, before both are destroyed.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Brenda Drake's Thief of Lies and its series are a captivating mix of adventure, magic, and mystery, making it a great choice for families who love a good blend of supernatural elements and heartfelt relationships. The story follows Gia, a young girl with the ability to travel between worlds, as she discovers hidden truths about her own abilities and the legacy of her family. The plot is fast-paced and filled with twists and turns, keeping readers engaged while exploring themes of friendship, loyalty, and discovering one’s true potential. This makes it a compelling read for both teens and adults alike, with a balance of action and emotional depth. In terms of content, Thief of Lies is well-suited for younger readers, especially those in the young adult category. There is no explicit sexual content, and the romantic elements are mild, focusing more on the emotional development of relationships rather than physical intimacy. The action scenes may involve some fighting and danger, but they are handled with a sense of responsibility and not gratuitously violent. With its focus on personal growth and adventure, this series is a fantastic pick for families looking for an exciting, clean fantasy series that emphasizes the importance of courage, self-discovery, and standing up for what’s right.
(contains mild fantasy violence, light romantic elements without sexual content, and minimal to no swearing)
AUTHOR SARAH BETH DURST
ENCHANTED IVY
What Lily Carter wants most in the world is to attend Princeton University just like her grandfather. When she finally visits the campus, Grandpa surprises her: She has been selected to take the top-secret Legacy Test. Passing means automatic acceptance to Princeton. Sweet!
Lily's test is to find the Ivy Key. But what is she looking for? Where does she start? As she searches, Lily is joined by Tye, a cute college boy with orange and black hair who says he's her guard. That's weird. But things get seriously strange when a gargoyle talks to her. He tells her that there are two Princetons—the ordinary one and a magical one—and the Key opens the gate between them. But there are more secrets that surround Lily. Worse secrets.
When Lily enters the magical Princeton, she uncovers old betrayals and new dangers, and a chance at her dream becomes a fight for her life. Soon Lily is caught in a power struggle between two worlds, with her family at its center. In a place where Knights slay monsters, boys are were-tigers, and dragons might be out for blood, Lily will need all of her ingenuity and courage—and a little magic—to unite the worlds and unlock the secrets of her past and her future.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Enchanted Ivy by Sarah Beth Durst would be a great choice for readers and families looking for a fantasy adventure that's exciting but still very age-appropriate. The story blends real-world college life with magical creatures and secret societies, offering plenty of imagination without diving into anything too dark or explicit. Romance is present but very light and sweet, without any sexual content—more of a budding crush than anything mature. The fantasy violence is mild and never graphic, and there's little to no swearing, making it a safe and engaging pick for teens who love a magical twist. On the flip side, readers who are looking for intense action, deep romance, or darker themes might find Enchanted Ivy a little lighter than they’d like. Its tone stays firmly in the "fun and adventurous" lane, without heavy emotional intensity or complex moral struggles. But for families wanting a clean, whimsical fantasy that sparks imagination without pushing boundaries, Enchanted Ivy is a wonderful and safe choice—especially for readers who are comfortably within the teenage years and love stories about discovering secret worlds.
(contains mild romance, some perilous situations, no sexual content, and minimal swearing)
AUTHOR JENNIFER EALEY
THE PALE-FACED MAGE
Sheldrake is a mage. Maud is a shapeshifter. When their son is born, he is completely pale with nearly white eyes: the legacy of a fearsome great-grandmother.
Jayhan grows into a cheery, accident-prone eight-year-old, unhappily aware of his heritage. Soon, a dark-eyed orphan enters his life; rescued from a brutal master to become their stableboy, Sasha's past and present are shrouded in secrets.
The only legacy Sasha has of the past is an obsidian amulet. As secrets of the young stableboy's past slowly come to light, they're all thrown into a world of danger.
With ancient prophecies coming to bear and deadly enemies at all sides, can they uncover the secrets of the dark amulet.. and survive?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Pale-Eyed Mage by Jennifer Ealey could be a great choice for families or younger readers who enjoy epic fantasy with a thoughtful storyline and a strong focus on character development. The book introduces readers to a richly built world of magic, prophecy, and adventure, centered around a young protagonist named Jayhan, whose unique magical heritage sets him apart. The fantasy elements are imaginative and immersive, offering readers a sense of wonder without venturing into overly graphic or mature territory. Because the story centers on a family navigating political intrigue and dark forces, it naturally includes lessons on loyalty, identity, and courage—making it a solid pick for those looking for meaningful yet exciting reading. In terms of content, The Pale-Eyed Mage is a relatively clean read. There is no explicit sexual content or graphic intimacy, which is a major plus for parents who are cautious about what their teens or preteens are exposed to. While the story does contain fantasy violence and dark themes—such as battles and threats posed by magical antagonists—it avoids excessive gore or disturbing imagery. Swearing is minimal to nonexistent, which further supports its suitability for younger audiences or family book clubs. Overall, it’s a safe and engaging entry into high fantasy that balances adventure and character-driven storytelling in a way that respects younger readers' maturity levels.
(contains mild romance, some perilous situations, no sexual content, and minimal swearing)
AUTHOR SHEA ERNSHAW
LONG LIVE THE PUMPKIN QUEEN
**THE INSTANT #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER**
Read Sally’s story in this young adult companion to Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas written by New York Times best-selling author Shea Ernshaw.
Jack and Sally are "truly meant to be" ... or are they?
Sally Skellington is the official, newly-minted Pumpkin Queen after a whirlwind courtship with her true love, Jack, who Sally adores with every inch of her fabric seams-- if only she could say the same for her new role as Queen of Halloween Town. Cast into the spotlight and tasked with all sorts of queenly duties, Sally can't help but wonder if all she's done is trade her captivity under Dr. Finkelstein for a different cage. But when Sally and Zero accidentally uncover a long-hidden doorway to an ancient realm called Dream Town, she'll unknowingly set into motion a chain of sinister events that put her future as Pumpkin Queen, and the future of Halloween Town itself, into jeopardy. Can Sally discover what it means to be true to herself and save the town she's learned to call home, or will her future turn into her worst... well, nightmare?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Shea Ernshaw’s Long Live the Pumpkin Queen is a delightful and atmospheric read, making it a perfect choice for families who enjoy a magical, whimsical tale with a bit of a spooky flair. Set in the world of Halloween Town, this book follows Sally Skellington as she adjusts to life after marrying Jack Skellington. The story is rich with fantasy, adventure, and a sense of mystery, all while exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the responsibilities that come with leadership. The blend of holiday magic and personal growth makes it an engaging read for younger audiences, particularly those who are fans of The Nightmare Before Christmas and enjoy stories with a dark yet enchanting twist. Regarding content, Long Live the Pumpkin Queen is appropriate for most young readers, as it focuses more on magical adventure and self-discovery than on mature themes. There is no sexual content, with the romance between Sally and Jack being sweet and family-friendly. The book does contain some darker elements typical of Halloween Town, but these are handled in a way that is appropriate for a younger audience. With its emphasis on themes of perseverance, courage, and finding one’s place in the world, it’s a heartwarming and engaging choice for families looking for a spooky but uplifting read.