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FANTASY
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At a Glance
(mild fantasy violence with no sensual content, minimal romance, and no swearing)
AUTHOR KINTISAR KHANANI
SUNBOLT ( BOOK 1)
The winding streets and narrow alleys of Karolene hide many secrets, and Hitomi is one of them. Orphaned at a young age, Hitomi has learned to hide her magical aptitude and who her parents really were. Most of all, she must conceal her role in the Shadow League, an underground movement working to undermine the powerful and corrupt Arch Mage Wilhelm Blackflame.
When the League gets word that Blackflame intends to detain—and execute—a leading political family, Hitomi volunteers to help the family escape. But there are more secrets at play than Hitomi’s, and much worse fates than execution. Betrayed and captured along with her charges, it will take everything Hitomi can summon to save them—and herself.
Fans of Robin McKinley and Tamora Pierce will love this action-packed story of one girl fighting monsters both human and not. Pick up Sunbolt now and set off on a high-stakes adventure through the gorgeously diverse world of Intisar Khanani’s Sunbolt Chronicles.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Sunbolt by Intisar Khanani is a fantastic choice for families looking for a clean, fast-paced fantasy with strong moral themes and a courageous, intelligent heroine. The story follows Hitomi, a resourceful young woman caught between political unrest and dark magic, and it weaves elements of suspense, magic, and resistance without ever becoming graphic or inappropriate. It offers rich world-building and engaging characters while remaining accessible and appropriate for middle-grade and teen readers. In terms of content, Sunbolt is refreshingly wholesome. There is no sexual or sensual content, no profanity, and the violence—while present in some action and danger scenes—is never gratuitous or overly intense. The book emphasizes bravery, kindness, and doing the right thing in the face of injustice, making it a thoughtful and age-appropriate read for both younger teens and adults who enjoy character-driven fantasy.
(contains mild romance [kissing], moderate fantasy violence, and no explicit content or strong language,)
AUTHOR V. B. LACEY
LONG LIVE ( BOOK 1)
Isla Belthare lives an ordinary life in her small village of Lockhurt. Since losing both her mother and the man she loved two years ago, all she wants is stability and peace. But her world is forever changed when her family is attacked on a journey away from home and she must travel to the Aataran mountain range to find them.
Across the realm, four ancient beings who control the elements of nature are awakening.
After a civil war that tore the humans apart, the elementals entered a thousand year slumber. Now, they are being summoned to prevent a dark force that is greedy for power and threatening to overturn the balance of nature.
When Isla’s path crosses with one of these elementals, she finds her fate is more entangled with theirs than she had ever imagined. As she risks it all to follow the elementals on their journey to defeat the unknown foe, she discovers that not everything may be as it seems. Isla is torn between protecting her loved ones or following her heart down a dangerous path of power and magic, of truth and lies.
What will they sacrifice to stop the coming storm?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Lone Live by V.B. Lacey offers a compelling fantasy adventure that blends elemental magic, found family dynamics, and emotionally rich character arcs. The series is noted for its clean romantic content—featuring swoon-worthy moments without explicit scenes—and moderate fantasy violence, making it suitable for teen readers and up. Themes of grief, anxiety, and resilience are thoughtfully explored, providing depth without overwhelming younger audiences. However, the series does include some mature themes, such as brief references to sexual assault and depictions of violence, which may be unsettling for sensitive readers. While these elements are not graphically detailed, they contribute to the story's tension and character development. Families seeking entirely lighthearted content may find these aspects challenging. Nonetheless, for readers who appreciate character-driven narratives with emotional depth and a focus on personal growth, The Elementals of Iona provides an engaging and age-appropriate experience.
(moderate fantasy violence, minimal swearing, and no explicit sexual content)
AUTHOR R. K. LANDER
PATH OF A NOVICE ( BOOK 1)
A novice warrior’s journey begins, but the truth of his heritage may shatter everything he believes.
"This is not your typical epic fantasy series. It's an entire universe of characters you will never forget." - Amazon reader.
Born to battle yet shackled by a past he doesn’t understand, a young elf steps into his first true war as a Silvan warrior. In a world ravaged by ruthless Deviants and brutal Sand Lords, survival is more than a fight for life—it’s a fight for truth. As he learns to battle in the Deep Forest, darker forces close in, threatening to tear apart the fragile foundation of everything he and the Silvan people hold dear.
A world of relentless adventure, deep magic, and treacherous enemies awaits. As alliances shift and the shadows of destiny close in, one question remains: Will he become the hero the forest realm needs, or will the weight of his own past destroy him before he can return the forest to the Silvan people?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Path of a Novice by R.K. Lander offers a rich, immersive fantasy experience that can be a great fit for readers who enjoy epic tales of self-discovery, camaraderie, and moral complexity. The story follows Fel’annár, a young half-Silvan, half-Alpine elf navigating the challenges of warrior training and uncovering secrets about his heritage. The narrative delves into themes like racial prejudice, identity, and leadership, all set against a backdrop of vivid world-building and elven lore. While the book contains moderate fantasy violence typical of the genre, it avoids explicit sexual content and keeps swearing to a minimum, making it suitable for readers who appreciate thoughtful storytelling without graphic elements. However, families should be aware that the novel's exploration of complex themes such as discrimination and personal trauma might be intense for some readers. The battles and conflicts, while not overly graphic, are integral to the plot and may be unsettling for those sensitive to violence. Additionally, the intricate political dynamics and layered character relationships require a level of maturity to fully appreciate. Therefore, while Path of a Novice is a compelling read for fans of high fantasy, it may be best suited for readers who are comfortable with nuanced narratives that tackle challenging social issues within a fantastical setting.
(moderate fantasy violence, minimal swearing, and no explicit sexual content)
AUTHOR SARA B. LARSON
SISTERS OF SHADOW AND LIGHT (BOOK 1)
From the acclaimed author of Defy, Sara B. Larson, Sisters of Shadow and Light is a timeless and fantastical tale of sisterly love and powerful magic
The night my sister was born, the stars died and were reborn in her eyes….
Zuhra and Inara have grown up in the Citadel of the Paladins, an abandoned fortress where legendary, magical warriors once lived before disappearing from the world—including their Paladin father the night Inara was born.
On that same night, a massive, magical hedge grew and imprisoned them within the citadel. Inara inherited their father’s Paladin power; her eyes glow blue and she is able to make plants grow at unbelievable rates, but she has been trapped in her own mind because of a “roar” that drowns everything else out—leaving Zuhra virtually alone with their emotionally broken human mother.
For fifteen years they have lived, trapped in the citadel, with little contact from the outside world…until the day a stranger passes through the hedge, and everything changes.
At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Sisters of Shadow and Light by Sara B. Larson is a young adult fantasy novel that delves into themes of sisterhood, isolation, and self-discovery. The narrative centers on two sisters, Zuhra and Inara, who have been secluded within a magical citadel, leading to a story rich in emotional depth and character development. The book is generally clean in terms of explicit content; it features mild swearing, clean romance with some kissing, and moderate fantasy violence, including peril and death. These elements are typical of the genre and are presented in a manner suitable for readers comfortable with emotional and darker themes. However, the novel does address some serious issues that may be concerning for certain readers. Content warnings include child abuse, self-harm, suicidal ideation, starvation, and the death of a parent . These topics are woven into the characters' backstories and the plot, contributing to the overall emotional intensity of the story. While these elements add depth to the narrative, they may not be suitable for all audiences, particularly younger readers or those sensitive to such themes. Families should consider these factors when deciding if this book aligns with their reading preferences and comfort levels.
(sword‑fights and battlefield bloodshed, light romantic tension (no explicit sex), and occasional coarse language)
AUTHOR DAVE LAWSON
THE ENVOYS OF WAR (BOOK 1)
Don’t kill the messengers.
As a bodyguard for the King’s Envoys, Gen has the perfect job: traveling, drinking wine, and hitting things with her sword. Her latest mission is to accompany Cordyn, an Envoy and her best friend, through enemy territory to deliver vital military intelligence to an allied nation.
The problem? The mission is a sham.
The King believes Cordyn might be a spy. While Cordyn may be the worst kind of libertine—brash, arrogant, and on the run from half the husbands in the kingdom—Gen can’t imagine him betraying her or their nation.
With obtuse bandits, vengeful mages, and a resolute lutist, they embark on a daring rescue mission, complicated by Cordyn’s increasingly complex schemes. As ominous enemy plots surface, Gen and Cordyn must decide what matters most, their nation or their friends.
A rollicking fantasy adventure for fans of Dungeons and Dragons, Nicholas Eames, and Michael J. Sullivan.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Envoys of War by Dave Lawson could be a great choice for families or readers who enjoy classic epic fantasy with strong themes of loyalty, strategy, and heroic action. The series focuses on wartime struggles, alliances, and character-driven decisions without delving into graphic or gratuitous content. Romance is present but limited, serving more as a subplot than a focal point, and there is no explicit sexual content. The storytelling leans more into the grit of war and the emotional toll it takes on characters, which may appeal to readers who prefer depth and stakes in their fantasy without excessive sensuality. That said, some families may feel the content is a bit intense depending on their comfort level with fantasy violence and battlefield imagery. There are moments of bloodshed, military conflict, and occasional swearing, all of which contribute to the realism of the story but may not align with preferences for gentler or lighter fantasy tales. While there’s no graphic sexual material, the tone is more serious and suited to those who can appreciate heavier themes. If you're seeking a whimsical or purely light-hearted fantasy read, this might not be the best fit, but for those ready for mature themes with restrained content, it's a solid option.
(contains moderate violence, some dark elements, mild swearing, and light romantic elements with no explicit content)
AUTHOR MARCUS LEE
THE MOUNTAIN OF SOULS (BOOK 1)
All that stands between evil and victory, is a weapon forged out of darkness.
Within the depths of the Mountain of Souls, orphans are raised to be remorseless assassins. Abandoned by a society ravaged by endless war and greed, hundreds die during selection so that a determined few, honed by training and enchantment, can ascend to join The Chosen.
Malina is one of those orphans.
Cursed with yellow eyes and deathly pale skin, she is neither popular nor strong and appears certain to die on her first day, broken and forgotten like so many before her.
Fate, however, has other, far more reaching plans for Malina than a quick death.
The prophesied return of The Once and Future King is imminent, The Chosen are pivotal to securing his ascension, and no destinies have ever been more intricately entwined.
Yet what happens if the path laid out before Malina is not the one she decides to take?
Read on, and you'll discover this is more than just Malina's and The Chosen’s tale … it's the revelation of an astonishing plan spanning millennia, in which myths from the past influence the present to determine the future.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Mountain of Souls by Marcus Lee could be a good choice for readers who enjoy dark fantasy with a strong coming-of-age storyline, intriguing worldbuilding, and themes of personal growth. The book offers a gripping plot that follows a young protagonist navigating a harsh, morally complex world, making it appealing to those who appreciate fantasy with emotional depth and some gritty realism. The violence, while present, serves the story and isn’t gratuitous, and the romantic elements remain light and appropriate for most teen readers. There's also a compelling sense of adventure and mystery that could keep readers engaged and spark thoughtful discussion. However, this series may not be the best fit for more sensitive readers or families looking for lighter content. The story includes moderate violence, some dark themes, and occasional mild swearing that could be concerning for those who prefer cleaner reads. While there is some romance, there is no explicit sexual content, which makes it more accessible to a wider audience—but the tone of the book leans darker, which might not be ideal for readers who are uncomfortable with morally gray characters or intense emotional struggles. Parents and readers who value uplifting or cozy stories might find this series a bit heavy in tone.
(moderate violence and scary scenes)
AUTHOR C. S. LEWIS
THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE (BOOK 2)
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is the second book in C. S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia, a series that has become part of the canon of classic literature, drawing readers of all ages into a magical land with unforgettable characters for over seventy-five years.
Four adventurers step through a wardrobe door and into the land of Narnia, a land enslaved by the power of the White Witch. But when almost all hope is lost, the return of the Great Lion, Aslan, signals a great change . . . and a great sacrifice.
This is a stand-alone read, but if you would like to explore more of the Narnian realm, pick up The Horse and His Boy, the third book in The Chronicles of Narnia.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
C.S. Lewis’s The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a timeless fantasy that many families appreciate for its themes of courage, sacrifice, and faith. The story presents a magical world filled with noble heroes and moral lessons that mirror Christian values, making it a meaningful read for those who enjoy stories with spiritual depth. It’s a clean and imaginative adventure with no romance or explicit content, and its focus on moral integrity, forgiveness, and the triumph of good over evil offers wholesome material for discussion within families. While the series is largely family-friendly, parents should be aware of some scenes involving violence and dark imagery. The White Witch’s cruelty, a character’s death and resurrection, and moments of battle or fear may be intense for sensitive readers. Still, these elements are handled tastefully, serving the story’s deeper message of hope and redemption rather than shock value. Overall, the series remains one of the most respected and uplifting choices in children’s fantasy literature.
(slow‑burn romance, supernatural threats, some swearing)
AUTHOR KIMBERLY LOTH
DAYS OF HUNGER ( BOOK 1)
The girl should’ve screamed.
But she didn’t.
Instead she threw a shoe at me after I showed up in her room. She summoned me but didn’t realize it.
She commanded me to leave and so I had to obey.
But the need to see her again is powerful and I’m not sure I can resist. She will come easily, like the others. Three thousand years may have passed, but women always stay the same.
They fell for pretty words and gave up their lives willingly.
This girl would be no different. She’d make her wishes and her soul will be mine. And if she resists a little, well then, the end will be all the sweeter.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Days of Hunger by Kimberly Loth is a compelling installment in a clean YA fantasy series that may be a great fit for families who enjoy romantic supernatural adventures without graphic content. The story blends magic, danger, and a simmering romance involving genies, giving it a mystical and adventurous feel. While romantic tension builds between the characters, it stays appropriate for teen audiences—limited to emotional connection, flirting, and some longing or implied desire, with no explicit sexual scenes. Violence is present, mostly tied to magical conflicts and threats, but it’s portrayed in a way that’s intense without being graphic or disturbing. That said, Days of Hunger might not appeal to readers or families who prefer either more grounded realism or fast-paced action. The focus on destiny, magical bonds, and supernatural intrigue may feel a bit fantastical or melodramatic to those looking for more complex or gritty narratives. There may be some emotional scenes and light suspense, but no heavy swearing, mature language, or disturbing content. Overall, it’s a safe and enjoyable read for most teens and families looking for a clean paranormal romance with a touch of danger and magic.
(contains moderate fantasy violence, no explicit content, minimal romance, and no swearing)
AUTHOR HELEN LOWE
THE HEIR OF NIGHT (BOOK 1)
If Night falls, all fall . . .
In the far north of the world of Haarth lies the bitter mountain range known as the Wall of Night. Garrisoned by the Nine Houses of the Derai, the Wall is the final bastion between the peoples of Haarth and the Swarm of Dark—which the Derai have been fighting across worlds and time.Malian, Heir to the House of Night, knows the history of her the unending war with the Darkswarm; the legendary heroes, blazing with long-lost power; the internal strife that has fractured the Derai’s former strength. But now the Darkswarm is rising again, and Malian’s destiny as Heir of Night is bound inextricably to both ancient legend and any future the Derai—or Haarth—may have.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Heir of Night by Helen Lowe might be a great choice for families who enjoy epic fantasy with strong world-building, complex characters, and a classic good-versus-evil storyline. The book features a young heroine coming into her power amidst a backdrop of war, prophecy, and ancient magic. In terms of content, it’s quite clean—there’s little to no sexual content, minimal romance, and no strong language, which makes it a solid option for readers who want an engaging fantasy without worrying about mature or graphic material. The writing is rich and thoughtful, and the themes of courage, identity, and sacrifice can offer plenty of discussion points for family readers. On the other hand, The Heir of Night does include scenes of fantasy violence and intense battles, which might be a bit much for readers who are sensitive to danger or darker story elements. While not graphic, the violence is an integral part of the story’s high-stakes conflict. The pacing and layered political and magical systems may also feel dense for those who prefer lighter, more casual fantasy reads. However, for families or readers who enjoy sweeping, character-driven sagas that take their time unfolding, this series offers an immersive and age-appropriate adventure that balances action with emotional depth.
(mild violence, including bruises and blisters, and instances of cruelty towards the protagonist.
The romance is innocent, featuring chaste kissing and hugs)
AUTHOR ABIGAIL MANNING
THE ITSY BITSY LIAR ( BOOK 1)
What if the itsy bitsy spider could only weave a web of lies?
Lacey Arachne has been cursed since she was a child to only speak lies and wants nothing more than to keep it unknown. As a common handmaiden, she’s learned how to navigate her twisted words fairly well. But that all changes when her mistress makes her switch places with her in the prince’s bride competition.
Unable to refuse her mistress’s plans, Lacey is forced to play the role of a noble and compete in a competition she has no interest in winning. Well, at least that’s the lie she tells herself after she meets the charming Prince Carlex...
With the punishment for impersonating a noble being death, Lacey must blend in with the other competitors at all costs. But how does a bold-faced liar avoid standing out amongst scrutinizing eyes? Especially when her childhood enemy certainly doesn’t seem keen on letting her go unnoticed... Can Lacey untangle herself from the webs she’s crafted? Or will she be doomed to fall with the coming storm?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Abigail Manning’s The Itsy Bitsy Liar is a charming and imaginative fairy tale retelling that blends elements of classic nursery rhymes with a fresh, original storyline. The narrative follows Lacey Arachne, a young woman cursed to only speak lies, as she navigates a royal bride competition under a false identity. The story is praised for its unique premise, engaging plot, and well-developed characters, offering a delightful mix of humor, romance, and adventure. Readers have noted the book's captivating storytelling and the clever ways Lacey manages her curse, making it an enjoyable read for fans of fairy tale retellings and clean romance. In terms of content, The Itsy Bitsy Liar is considered family-friendly. The romantic elements are sweet and appropriate, focusing on the developing relationship between Lacey and Prince Carlex without delving into explicit content. The language is mild, with little to no swearing, and any instances of fantasy violence are minimal and not graphic. However, the story does contain themes of emotional and mental abuse by parental figures, as well as implied physical abuse and gaslighting, which may be sensitive for some readers . Overall, the book's emphasis on themes like honesty, kindness, and devotion, rather than mature content, makes it a suitable choice for families seeking an entertaining and clean read with a touch of the supernatural.
(some swearing, intense scenes, and sensual kissing)
AUTHOR RACHEL A. MARKS
DARKNESS BRUTAL ( BOOK 1)
The fate of humanity hangs in the balance as Aidan faces a crushing choice: give in to the demands of the forces of Darkness in order to save his sister, Ava, or fight on the side of good and risk losing her forever. With so much at stake and so little time, Aidan rushes to finish assembling a team of Lights, other teens whose special abilities are linked to his own.
Meanwhile, Rebecca discovers that she’s more than just a normal teen and that the power awakening inside her may be stronger than she ever could have imagined. As the city plunges into chaos and Aidan doubts his plan of attack, Rebecca’s newfound gift may tip the scale in the wrong direction.
In this thrilling final installment of the Dark Cycle series, will Aidan find the help he needs to release the world from Darkness’s grip? Or will he lose everything he’s been desperately trying to save, including his soul?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Darkness Brutal by Rachel A. Marks is an exciting and fast-paced fantasy novel that blends elements of urban fantasy with supernatural intrigue. The story follows a young protagonist who is thrust into a hidden world of angels, demons, and other magical creatures. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and emotional depth, it captures the reader's attention from the very beginning. Themes of friendship, sacrifice, and inner strength play a central role, making it an empowering choice for young readers who enjoy stories about overcoming personal struggles while navigating complex relationships. In terms of content, Darkness Brutal is a solid option for families seeking an engaging read without too much explicit material. There is some mild violence, especially in the context of supernatural battles, but it is not overly graphic. As for romantic elements, there is a mild romantic subplot, but it is handled with care, focusing more on emotional connections than physical aspects. There is no explicit sexual content in the book, making it appropriate for a wide age range. The series focuses more on personal growth, loyalty, and dealing with challenges, which offers valuable lessons for young readers.
(slow‑burn romance with mild kissing, fantasy violence (assassin missions, battles, death), minimal swearing, and no explicit sexual content)
AUTHOR ASHLEY MCLEO
ALICE THE DAGGER (BOOK 1)
They call me the dagger.
I’m an assassin and that’s all I’ve ever known.
So when a white rabbit tells me that loved ones are waiting for me in the Wonderland Court of Faerie, it's surprising. And then, I learn something even more shocking.
The Red Queen stole the Crown of Wonderland from my mother. Murdered her too. The queen singlehandedly created my reality of death and blood and murder.
While that's devastating, I can handle those emotions. Its what I have been trained to do.
What I don't know how to handle is rebel leader Henri Hatter.
He’s loved by everyone. A man who sings in the streets because people ask for aether’s sake. A faerie who knows more about my past than anyone—including me.
A good man who could crush my heart if I let him in.
Despite my claims that I work alone, Hatter and two nosey little pixies insist on sticking with me.
Only one thing is for sure, with them by my side assassinating the Red Queen will be unlike any other job I’ve ever tackled.
Alice the Dagger is a YA Fae epic fantasy. Readers of Tessonja Odette, Melanie Cellier, and Marissa Meyer who love adventure, slow-burn romances, whimsical worlds, spunky sidekicks, and lots of action will love Alice the Dagger.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Alice the Dagger by Ashley McLeo offers an engaging mix of fantasy adventure and subtle romance that could appeal to readers who enjoy strong, complex heroines navigating dangerous, magical worlds. The story centers on Alice, a skilled assassin with a sharp wit and a compelling personal journey, which adds emotional depth and intrigue beyond typical fantasy fare. The romance is gentle and slow to develop, featuring only mild kissing without explicit sexual scenes, making it accessible for readers who prefer less graphic romantic content. While there is fantasy violence, including battles and assassinations, it’s portrayed with a focus on story tension rather than graphic gore, which can work well for those comfortable with some action but who aren’t looking for overly intense violence. On the other hand, families seeking completely violence-free or light-hearted stories might find the assassin themes and battle scenes a bit intense or dark. The tone can be serious at times, reflecting the harsh realities Alice faces, which may not suit readers looking for purely escapist fantasy or lighthearted romance. Although swearing is minimal, the mature themes of loyalty, survival, and betrayal give the book a weightier feel. Overall, Alice the Dagger strikes a thoughtful balance between action, character development, and romance, making it a solid pick for readers who enjoy thoughtful fantasy with some edge, but possibly less suitable for those wanting completely tame or cheerful narratives.
(contains mild language, moderate fantasy violence, and no sexual content)
AUTHOR KAREN MILLER
THE PRODIGAL MAGE (BOOK 1)
Karen Miller returns to the world of her bestselling Kingmaker, Kingbreaker duology in “an appealing series kickoff” (Publishers Weekly).
Many years have passed since the last great Mage War. It has been a time of great change. But not all changes are for the best, and Asher's world is in peril once more.
The weather magic that holds Lur safe is failing, and the earth feels broken to those with the power to see. Among Lur's sorcerers, only Asher has the skill to mend the antique weather map that governs the seasons, keeping the land from being crushed by natural forces. Yet, when Asher risks his life to meddle with these dangerous magics, the crisis is merely delayed, not averted.
Asher's son Rafel has inherited the father's talents, but has been forbidden to use them. Many died in the last Mage War and these abilities aren't to be loosed lightly into the world. But when Asher's last desperate attempt to repair the damage leaves him on his deathbed, Rafel's powers may not be denied. For his countrymen are facing famine, devastation, and a rift in the very fabric of their land.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Prodigal Mage by Karen Miller is a character-driven fantasy novel that delves into themes of family dynamics, responsibility, and the consequences of past actions. The story follows Asher, a former mage, and his son Rafel, who grapples with his burgeoning magical abilities amidst a world facing environmental turmoil. The narrative emphasizes emotional interactions and internal conflicts over action-packed sequences, offering a contemplative exploration of personal growth and familial bonds. For readers who appreciate intricate character development and moral dilemmas within a fantasy setting, this book provides a thoughtful and immersive experience. However, the novel's focus on prolonged dialogues and repetitive arguments may not appeal to readers seeking fast-paced adventures or high-stakes battles. The absence of explicit sexual content and the presence of only mild language make it generally suitable for a broad audience, though the slow pacing and emphasis on internal struggles might be less engaging for younger readers or those new to the fantasy genre. Parents considering this book for their children should be aware of its mature themes and complex character relationships, which may resonate more with readers who have a deeper appreciation for nuanced storytelling.
(moderate violence, occasional swearing, and implied romantic elements without explicit sexual content)
AUTHOR PETER MORWOOD
THE HORSE LORD (BOOK OF YEARS BOOK 1)
Aldric Talvalin has had his family torn from him and is left for dead.
Seeking the care of an old wizard, Gemmel, he is nursed back to health. But as recompense, he has a particular mission in mind for the hero.
Alone, he ventures off through dangerous lands in discovery of the legendary Dragonwand, a powerful tool and weapon long sought after by Gemmel.
But he won’t be alone for long. With an unlikely companion, Aldric must battle onwards and affirm his destiny as the hero he is.
Trouble, danger, and even romance face Aldric on his perilous adventure.
And the question remains:
Will he succeed in his vengeful purpose?
The Horse Lord is a gripping epic fantasy adventure from renowned author Peter Morwood. It is the first of the Book of Years series.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Book of Years by Peter Morwood might be a great choice for families who enjoy classic epic fantasy with rich world-building, political intrigue, and a slower, thoughtful narrative style. The story centers on loyalty, legacy, and power struggles in a high fantasy setting, making it appealing to readers who enjoy tales similar to Tolkien or early Raymond E. Feist. The content is fairly mild by modern fantasy standards—there is some swearing and fantasy violence, but nothing excessively graphic. Romance exists more as a background element than a major plot driver, and there is no explicit sexual content, which many families may find reassuring. On the other hand, this series might not be ideal for readers looking for fast-paced action or younger audiences who may struggle with the dense prose and complex political themes. While the violence isn’t extreme, there are battles and moments of tension that may be intense for more sensitive readers. The story’s pacing and layered world might also be a bit too intricate for those just getting into the fantasy genre. Overall, it’s a solid pick for mature readers ready for a traditional, character-driven fantasy without the concern of graphic content.
(moderate fantasy violence, no swearing, mild sibling conflict, and occasional tense themes)
Editor's
Favorite
AUTHOR BRANDON MULL
FABLEHAVEN (BOOK 1)
"The dialogue snaps and sizzles. . . like Harry Potter, Fablehaven can be read aloud in a family with as much pleasure for grownups as for children. . . Do yourself a favor, and don't miss the first novel by a writer who is clearly going to be a major figure in popular fantasy." — Orson Scott Card, New York Times Bestselling Author
"Imagination runs wild in Fablehaven. It is a lucky book that can hold this kind of story." — Obert Skye, Author of Leven Thumps and the Gateway to Foo
For centuries, mystical creatures of all description were gathered to a hidden refuge called Fablehaven to prevent their extinction. The sanctuary survives today as one of the last strongholds of true magic in a cynical world. Enchanting? Absolutely. Exciting?
You bet. Safe? Well, actually, quite the opposite. . .
Kendra and her brother Seth have no idea their grandfather is the current caretaker of Fablehaven. Inside the gated woods, ancient laws give relative order among greedy trolls, mischievous satyrs, plotting witches, spiteful imps, and jealous fairies. However, when the rules get broken, an arcane evil is unleashed, forcing Kendra and Seth to face the greatest challenge of their lives. To save her family, Fablehaven, and perhaps the world, Kendra must find the courage to do what she fears most.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Fablehaven series by Brandon Mull is a great choice for families who enjoy adventurous, imaginative storytelling with strong moral lessons. It features two siblings who discover their grandparents run a secret preserve for magical creatures, leading to thrilling adventures filled with bravery, loyalty, and clever problem-solving. The books celebrate family bonds, responsibility, and courage without relying on graphic content, making them appealing for readers who prefer clean fantasy with a fast-paced plot. Parents may especially appreciate the way the series encourages critical thinking about choices, trust, and the importance of standing up for what's right. That said, some families might find the series a bit intense for sensitive readers. There are scenes of peril and magical combat that, while not graphic, can be suspenseful or frightening, especially involving dark creatures or life-or-death stakes. Additionally, the series grows darker as it progresses, with higher stakes and more emotionally complex situations. While there’s no explicit sexual content or strong language, families looking for very lighthearted stories may find the tension and fantasy violence worth considering before diving in. Still, for most, the series offers an exciting and age-appropriate journey into a richly imagined magical world.