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Fairy tale, fantasy

FANTASY

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AUTHOR CHELSEA ABDULLAH ​​ THE STARDUST THIEF
rated PG

(mild violence, dark themes, romantic tension, kissing, and subtle references to abuse)

AUTHOR CHELSEA ABDULLAH
THE STARDUST THIEF (BOOK 1)

Inspired by stories from One Thousand and One Nights, this book weaves together the gripping tale of a legendary smuggler, a cowardly prince, and a dangerous quest across the desert to find a legendary, magical lamp.

Neither here nor there, but long ago . . . 

 

Loulie al-Nazari is the Midnight Merchant: a criminal who, with the help of her jinn bodyguard, hunts and sells illegal magic. When she saves the life of a cowardly prince, she draws the attention of his powerful father, the sultan, who blackmails her into finding an ancient lamp that has the power to revive the barren land—at the cost of sacrificing all jinn.

 

With no choice but to obey or be executed, Loulie journeys with the sultan's oldest son to find the artifact. Aided by her bodyguard, who has secrets of his own, they must survive ghoul attacks, outwit a vengeful jinn queen, and confront a malicious killer from Loulie's past. And, in a world where story is reality and illusion is truth, Loulie will discover that everything—her enemy, her magic, even her own past—is not what it seems, and she must decide who she will become in this new reality.

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

Chelsea Abdullah’s The Stardust Thief is a richly woven fantasy inspired by One Thousand and One Nights, offering an immersive tale of magic, adventure, and storytelling. The narrative follows Loulie al-Nazari, a smuggler of illegal magical relics, on a perilous quest across the desert alongside a jinn bodyguard and a disguised prince. With themes of identity, morality, and the power of stories, this novel is perfect for readers who enjoy intricate world-building and character-driven plots. The storytelling interludes woven throughout the book enhance its charm and pay tribute to timeless folklore traditions. In terms of content, The Stardust Thief contains some fantasy violence and tense action scenes, but nothing overly graphic. There is mild romantic tension, but no explicit sexual content, which may appeal to readers and families looking for a more adventure-focused narrative. The language includes occasional strong words, but they are used sparingly and in context. Overall, this book would likely be a great fit for older or more mature readers who are ready for complex themes and a richly imagined fantasy world without excessive graphic content.

AUTHOR HOPE ABROM & AMANDA ABROM ​​ THE MAD KING AND THE FALSE QUEEN
rated PG

(moderate romantic tension, mild swearing, and fantasy violence)

AUTHOR HOPE ABROM & AMANDA ABROM
THE MAD KING AND THE FALSE QUEEN (BOOK 1)

One princess. One assassin. One switch that puts both their lives at stake.

Azurem is one of four kingdoms ruled by guardians of magic. On the day that Princess Magdalena is to be crowned, she discovers that she wields a different, more volatile power than her father, calling into question the legitimacy of her birthright. The crown she was born to wear now hangs in the balance – and her new magic must remain a secret or else risk igniting a battle for the throne.

Ever since she was a child, Dagmara served the royal family of Azurem. As the most lethal and covert royal assassin, her job is a means to provide a better life for her brother. However, when Princess Magdalena’s father is killed, Dagmara begins to suspect the infamous Mad King – a man known for his terrorizing reign in an enemy kingdom.

 

When Princess Magdalena receives a marriage proposal from the Mad King, the girls devise a plan to switch places. Princess Magdalena investigates her newfound powers on a quest full of romance, secrets, and espionage, while Dagmara goes undercover as the Mad King’s betrothed to bring him to justice once and for all. As Dagmara delves into the Mad King’s involvement in the murder, she catches the eye of his suspicious and handsome captain, a man that embodies danger and desire. Caught between her heart and her blade, Dagmara must navigate politics and ancient clues that bring her closer to the truth – a truth that could unravel the fabric of the kingdom she has bled to protect.

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

The Mad King and the False Queen by Hope and Amanda Abrom is a fantasy novel that intertwines political intrigue, elemental magic, and dual perspectives of a princess and an assassin. The story features romantic elements, including enemies-to-lovers and marriage-of-convenience tropes, with some scenes described as "heated and spicy" for a YA book, though not extremely descriptive. The narrative includes themes of betrayal, political scheming, and character development, with a fast-paced plot that has been praised for its engaging twists and turns. While the book offers a rich fantasy world and compelling character arcs, some readers have noted that certain romantic developments feel rushed or predictable. Additionally, the presence of mild swearing and intense romantic tension may be points of consideration for parents evaluating its suitability for younger readers. Overall, the novel is recommended for readers comfortable with moderate romantic content and themes of political intrigue.

AUTHOR ALESHAM ADAMSON ​​​ TAINTED BEAUTY
rated PG

(sweet romance with kissing and non-explicit intimacy, a coerced suitor and attempted assault, moderate fantasy violence including death, minimal swearing)

AUTHOR ALESHAM ADAMSON
TAINTED BEAUTY (BOOK 1)

A dragon’s curse, a deadly touch, a maiden tainted by beauty… can they break the curse—or will it consume them?

Aurelius has lost everything. Desperate to regain his worth, he accepts a gift from a dragon, but it comes at a terrible price. Now, the beast within him is out of his control—and it’s too late to undo the damage he’s caused.

 

Then he meets her.

 

The most enchanting maiden he’s ever seen.

 

Melora is trapped in a life she never wanted, sold off to the highest bidder to pay her father’s debts. But, when his greed takes things too far, she sacrifices herself to save her sister from a monstrous dragon.

 

Swept away to the dragon’s gilded domain, Melora finds Aurelius. He is arrogant, proud, and infuriatingly persistent—but there’s a side to him that calls to her, that makes her feel valued in a way she’s never known before.

 

Captive in this glittering world, Melora is surrounded by secrets that threaten to destroy them. Why won’t he touch her? What lies behind the forbidden door?

 

As the days pass, their time is running out. Will they break the curse before it’s too late, or will the glint of gold taint everything?

 

Tainted Beauty is a reimagining of “Beauty and the Beast” intertwined with “King Midas.” Fly away with a dragon shifter in this thrilling and swoony fairytale romance, part of the All That Glitters series—a collection of twelve books brimming with Tales of Treasure and True Love. Each book is written by a different author and can be enjoyed in any order, so pick a new favorite and discover that not all that glitters is gold.

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

Tainted Beauty by Alesha Adamson might be a good choice for readers who enjoy emotionally driven fantasy romance with themes of identity, self-worth, and resilience. The book offers a compelling mix of magic, mystery, and romantic tension, with a central character navigating both internal and external struggles. The romance is heartfelt and leans toward sweet rather than steamy, featuring kissing and emotional connection rather than graphic content. For families who are comfortable with stories that include some darker elements—such as threats from antagonists or magical violence—this book can provide a gripping and ultimately redemptive reading experience. However, for families who prefer books with entirely light or non-threatening content, Tainted Beauty may raise concerns. The story includes emotionally intense scenes, a coercive romantic interest (not the main love interest), and an attempted sexual assault—though the latter is not graphically detailed. These moments are portrayed with care and purpose, often highlighting the strength and growth of the protagonist, but they could be unsettling for more sensitive readers. While the violence and language are generally mild and appropriate for many teens, the themes of manipulation and trauma may not be ideal for readers who are not ready to engage with those topics.

AUTHOR MIRAI AMELL​​   TRUTH IN BLUE
rated PG

(mild slow-burn romance (no explicit sex), moderate violence (battles, death), some emotional grief, and occasional mild swearing)

AUTHOR MIRAI AMELL
 
TRUTH IN BLUE (BOOK 1)

Sometimes life is better as a lie.

Malakai wanted to protect his kingdom from threats beyond its borders. Instead, stripped of his magic and on the run, he now needs to save it from his brother, the king himself.

Amaryllis wanted to have nothing to do with humans. Instead, stranded in the wrong realm, she now needs to retrieve a lost fae relic with powers no one comprehends.

 

Una wanted to be a knight in shining armor. Instead, haunted by the memories of a life she never lived, Una now needs to find answers from someone she doesn't remember meeting.

 

When their paths cross, each must decide what matters to them the most.

 

Or risk losing everything they hold dear.

 

In a world where Angels and Shades battle for souls while the Devil sips his tea, the fate of one country, two races, and four realms hangs in the balance when love and loyalties are tested to their limits.

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

Truth in Blue by Mirai Amell is a beautifully written fantasy novel that weaves magic, mystery, and self-discovery into an emotionally resonant tale. The story follows a blind prince and a cursed girl as they uncover ancient truths and challenge the myths that shaped their world. The romance is sweet and slow-building, centered on trust and emotional connection rather than physical intimacy, with no explicit sexual content. This makes it a good fit for readers looking for meaningful character development and complex themes without graphic material. The book explores loyalty, inner strength, and the power of choice—messages that can resonate strongly with mature teens and adults alike. That said, the novel does include some elements that may not suit all families. There is moderate fantasy violence involving battles, magical peril, and death, as well as themes of grief and loss that add emotional depth but may be intense for more sensitive readers. The language is mostly clean, with only occasional mild swearing. While the story isn’t dark or graphic, it deals with personal trauma and injustice in thoughtful ways that may prompt deeper discussion. Overall, Truth in Blue is a gentle but mature fantasy that would appeal to readers who enjoy lyrical storytelling and character-driven narratives with heart and substance.

AUTHOR ELISA S. AMORE   INFERNAL ODYSSEY: DARK TOURNAMENT​
rated PG

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

AUTHOR ELISA S. AMORE
 
INFERNAL ODYSSEY: DARK TOURNAMENT​

All Champions Fight For Glory. He Will Fight For Love.

 

Drake is an Angel of Death. After losing his fiancée Stella a century ago, he’s become a lethal Executioner—as his brothers call him, “a lady-killer in every sense of the word.” All he’s required to do is end the lives of the mortals assigned to him and accompany their Souls to Heaven—but Drake likes to show them a good time in the process.

Until his own life is taken and he ends up in Hell as a prisoner in the Witches’ castle.

The castle walls don’t just keep him inside, though—they also keep everything else outside. After all, there must be a reason they call it Hell, and Drake has no intention of finding out why.

But when he learns that Stella is also in Hell, wandering the Dark Copse alone and in grave danger, his fear vanishes. He must find her, no matter what dangers or evil creatures he may face.

Drake is determined to do everything in his power and more to save her, but the journey back home won’t be easy…

Infernal Odyssey is a heart-pounding tale full of suspense, humor, and love. Inspired by The Princess Bride and The Hunger Games, it’s perfect for fantasy romance fans looking for a great combination of action, adventure, and romance.

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

Infernal Odyssey: Dark Tournament by Elisa S. Amore is an engaging and thrilling read that combines elements of fantasy, adventure, and a compelling storyline that will captivate older teens and adults alike. Set in a world where mythical creatures, magic, and ancient prophecies collide, the book follows a protagonist caught in a dangerous tournament with high stakes. The plot weaves action, mystery, and the exploration of power dynamics, making it a great choice for readers who enjoy complex worlds with layers of intrigue. The series touches on themes of bravery, self-discovery, and facing dark forces, which could resonate well with readers looking for deeper character development alongside high-octane action. While the book contains some mature themes, it is more focused on fantasy adventure rather than explicit content. There are moments of tension and implied romantic attraction between characters, but these are kept subtle and do not dominate the story. There is no graphic sexual content in Infernal Odyssey, making it suitable for older teens, although some of the darker, more intense themes may require parental guidance for younger readers. The series provides a captivating and fast-paced experience with well-rounded characters and emotional depth, making it an excellent choice for families with older teens who are looking for an exciting fantasy series.

AUTHOR C.J. ANAYA   MY FAIR ASSASSIN
rated PG

(mild language, some violence, mild kissing)

AUTHOR C.J. ANAYA
 
MY FAIR ASSASSIN (BOOK 1)

 

It's not everyday a teenage girl is singled out for assassination.

Crysta has come to accept that she is freakishly different. Her shocking white hair, creepy powers, and weird eating habits prevent her from fitting in with her various foster families. Now that she is fully emancipated and providing for herself, she hopes her life will become something halfway normal.

Her hopes are shattered when a dangerous man with lethal intent breaks into her apartment, but this enticing stranger isn't what he seems. Is he here to kill her or protect her from others who will?

My Fair Assassin is a romantic love story with elements of paranormal and urban fantasy woven in for an entertaining read. Adults and teens alike will enjoy getting lost in the pages of Crysta's story as she finally comes to accept who she is...or rather what she is.

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

C. J. Anaya’s My Fair Assassin is a thrilling blend of fantasy, romance, and action, making it a great choice for readers who enjoy strong heroines and dynamic world-building. The protagonist, a skilled assassin, navigates a world of political intrigue, danger, and complex relationships. The story is fast-paced with exciting plot twists, making it engaging for both younger and older readers. Themes of self-discovery, loyalty, and personal growth are woven into the narrative, offering valuable lessons for teens and young adults. For families with older teens, this book provides an empowering portrayal of a female protagonist who takes control of her destiny while balancing love and duty. While My Fair Assassin has some romantic elements, it keeps the content appropriate for a young adult audience. There are moments of chemistry between characters, and the romance plays an important role in the plot, but it is not explicit. The book focuses more on the action and the protagonist’s journey than on developing mature or sexual themes. There are some darker moments tied to the assassin profession and the challenges the characters face, but overall, the content is suitable for readers who enjoy fantasy and adventure without graphic sexual content. It’s a great pick for families looking for a well-rounded fantasy series with adventure, romance, and strong character development.

AUTHOR JODI LYNN ANDERSON   TIGER LILY
rated PG

(mild violence, dark themes, romantic tension, kissing, and subtle references to abuse)

AUTHOR JODI LYNN ANDERSON
 
TIGER LILY

In this stunning re-imagining of J. M. Barrie's beloved classic Peter Pan, New York Times bestselling author Jodi Lynn Anderson expertly weaves a gripping tale of love, loss, and adventure.

Before Peter Pan belonged to Wendy, he belonged to the girl with the crow feather in her hair… Tiger Lily. When fifteen-year-old Tiger Lily meets the alluring teenage Peter Pan deep in the forbidden woods of Neverland, the two form a bond that's impossible to break, but also impossible to hold on to. As the leader of the Lost Boys, the most fearsome of Neverland's inhabitants, Peter is an unthinkable match for Tiger Lily. However, when Wendy Darling, a girl who is everything Tiger Lily is not, arrives on the island, Tiger Lily discovers how far she is willing to go to keep Peter with her, and in Neverland.

Told from the perspective of tiny, fairy-sized Tinkerbell, Tiger Lily is the breathtaking story of budding romance, letting go and the pains of growing up.

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

Jodi Lynn Anderson’s Tiger Lily is an emotionally rich, beautifully written retelling of the classic Peter Pan story, focusing on the character of Tiger Lily, the mysterious and strong-willed Native American girl. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and identity, and provides a deep dive into Tiger Lily’s world, offering readers a fresh perspective on the beloved characters of Neverland. The lyrical prose and the poignant storyline are likely to captivate readers who enjoy fantasy with emotional depth, and the book also touches on themes of self-discovery and resilience. This makes it a thoughtful choice for readers looking for a coming-of-age story set in a unique and imaginative world. While Tiger Lily does feature romance, it is tastefully handled and focuses on the emotional connection between characters rather than graphic content. There are some intimate moments and discussions about love, but nothing explicit or inappropriate for older teens. The book’s tone is more about the complexities of relationships and growing up, as well as dealing with personal and cultural struggles. It’s a great choice for readers who enjoy fantasy, romance, and a little adventure but want something that stays within the realm of suitable content for teens and young adults, making it a solid pick for families looking for a story with heart and depth.

 Blooms of Darkness.jpg (contains moderate violence and mild swearing, with sensual scenes, but no explicit sexual content)
rated PG13

(contains moderate violence and mild swearing, with sensual scenes, but no explicit sexual content)

AUTHORS ANNA APPLEGATE & HELEN DOMICO

BLOOMS OF DARKNESS

 

'A Court of Thorns and Roses' meets 'The Bachelorette' in this new, exciting fantasy romance!

Eight Fae fight for my hand in marriage. They’re willing to kill for it. But if they discover my secret, my future husband might kill me too.

The King of Brookmere has decreed his daughter is to marry—which means, despite my protests, he’s enacted an archaic tradition, summoning powerful Fae from across the land to compete for my hand in marriage. And more importantly, the throne.

Eight fae will fight in the deadly trials, braving formidable magic and each other to prove themselves worthy of the crown. Including the arrogant, shadow-wielding Kade Blackthorn, who arrived out of nowhere and appears to have far more abilities than he should. In truth, all I’ve ever wanted is for someone to love me for who I am, despite my secrets. An ally. An equal.

While one of the contenders might become my husband, a trusted friend is the last title any of them can win. These men are willing to do anything for power. If they discover my secret, that I’m an heir with no magic, then we’re all doomed.


Blooms of Darkness is the first book of the Broken Prophecy Series, a slow burn, NA / adult romantasy. Readers are encouraged to review the list of content notes inside before diving into this enemies-to-lovers, shadow daddy romance.

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

Blooms of Darkness by Anna Applegate and Helen Domico could be a good choice for families or readers who enjoy fantasy worlds filled with fae politics, magical trials, and romantic tension. The book leans into a rich fantasy setting with a strong heroine caught in a magical competition, offering an engaging storyline that balances action, court intrigue, and emotional depth. The romance is slow-burn and enemies-to-lovers in tone, adding a layer of character development that will appeal to fans of complex relationships without rushing into anything too explicit. However, it might not be the best fit for readers or families who prefer stories without romantic tension or darker magical themes. While there isn’t explicit sexual content, the romantic elements can be intense, and the fae court setting often involves morally gray characters and some violence tied to the magical trials. For those looking for a lighter or more straightforward fantasy with less romantic drama, this series might feel a bit too emotionally charged or politically layered. That said, it stays within bounds suitable for mature teen readers and up, making it an accessible yet dramatic read for fantasy lovers.

AUTHOR ALEX ASTER ​​​  LIGHTLARK
rated PG13

(contains moderate violence, romantic tension with sensuality but no explicit sexual content, and mild language)

AUTHOR ALEX ASTER

LIGHTLARK (BOOK 1)

 

An instant #1 national bestseller—soon to be a major motion picture. #BookTok phenomenon and award-winning author Alex Aster delivers readers a masterfully written, utterly gripping YA fantasy novel

Welcome to the Centennial.

Every 100 years, the island of Lightlark appears to host the Centennial, a deadly game that only the rulers of six realms are invited to play. The invitation is a summons—a call to embrace victory and ruin, baubles and blood. The Centennial offers the six rulers one final chance to break the curses that have plagued their realms for centuries. Each ruler has something to hide. Each realm’s curse is uniquely wicked. To destroy the curses, one ruler must die.

Isla Crown is the young ruler of Wildling—a realm of temptresses cursed to kill anyone they fall in love with. They are feared and despised, and are counting on Isla to end their suffering by succeeding at the Centennial.

To survive, Isla must lie, cheat, and betray…even as love complicates everything.


Filled with secrets, deception, romance, and twists worthy of the darkest thrillers, Lightlark is a must-read for fans of legendary fantasy writers Marie Lu, Marissa Meyer, and Leigh Bardugo.

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

Lightlark by Alex Aster could be a great choice for readers who enjoy fast-paced fantasy with high-stakes competition, secret powers, and a touch of romance. The story revolves around Isla, a ruler competing in a deadly Centennial to save her cursed realm, and it’s packed with twists, betrayals, and magical intrigue. The romantic elements are a central part of the plot, with emotionally intense relationships and some sensual scenes—kissing, suggestive language, and romantic tension—but the book avoids explicit sexual content. For readers who appreciate morally gray characters and complex worldbuilding, Lightlark can be both entertaining and immersive. However, some families may want to consider a few content concerns. The violence, while not graphic, includes death, sword fighting, and magical attacks that may be intense for sensitive readers. There’s also mild language and moments of flirtation and intimacy that lean more mature than middle-grade fiction. Because the themes include manipulation, betrayal, and morally ambiguous decisions, this book may not suit younger or more impressionable readers. Overall, it's a bold, romantic fantasy best matched to those ready for darker themes and emotional complexity.

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