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At a Glance
(violence, torture, enslavement, murder, political manipulation, mild romance, and implied sexual assault)
AUTHOR R. K. SAMPSON
EMBER DRAGON DAUGHTER (BOOK 1)
Ember Dragon Daughter is a story of fate, mystery, betrayal, mythological creatures, royal balls and rebellions, and instalove fueled by magic. Not all characters make it out alive.
Ashkadance is in turmoil. With the dragons missing and a mysterious fateless plague leaving citizens crazed and loveless, nothing and no one in their enclosed kingdom is safe.
When Ember’s one rebellion leads to her beastly birthmark being revealed, she discovers not all is as it seems.
Now that she has her fated mate and a kingdom celebrating her as the lost princess, will she risk all that she has gained to accept her destiny?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Ember Dragon Daughter by R.K. Sampson is a compelling start to the Fated Tales series, blending rich fantasy with heartfelt themes of identity, love, and rebellion. The story follows a young woman navigating her emerging powers, complex family dynamics, and the weight of legacy in a magical world. With an emphasis on inclusion, self-acceptance, and found family, the book features LGBTQ+ characters, adoption themes, and a romance that focuses on emotional connection and true love rather than explicit content. It’s a thoughtful, character-driven read that encourages readers to question authority, embrace who they are, and fight for what’s right—all within a sweeping fantasy landscape. However, this series does include emotionally intense material that may not be suitable for all readers. Ember Dragon Daughter contains on-page murder, family loss, rejection by a biological parent, and depictions of magically-induced mental illness. While these elements are handled with sensitivity and purpose, they may be triggering for some. The author provides a detailed content guide on their website to help families and individuals make informed choices. Overall, this book is best suited for mature readers who appreciate fantasy with emotional depth, social themes, and a strong message of empowerment and inclusivity.
(violence, torture, enslavement, murder, political manipulation, mild romance, and implied sexual assault)
AUTHOR LAURA SEBASTIAN
ASH PRINCESS (BOOK 1)
The first book in the New York Times bestselling series "made for fans of Victoria Aveyard and Sabaa Tahir" (Bustle), Ash Princess is an epic new fantasy about a throne cruelly stolen and a girl who must fight to take it back for her people.
Theodosia was six when her country was invaded and her mother, the Fire Queen, was murdered before her eyes. On that day, the Kaiser took Theodosia's family, her land, and her name. Theo was crowned Ash Princess--a title of shame to bear in her new life as a prisoner.
For ten years Theo has been a captive in her own palace. She's endured the relentless abuse and ridicule of the Kaiser and his court. She is powerless, surviving in her new world only by burying the girl she was deep inside.
Then, one night, the Kaiser forces her to do the unthinkable. With blood on her hands and all hope of reclaiming her throne lost, she realizes that surviving is no longer enough. But she does have a weapon: her mind is sharper than any sword. And power isn't always won on the battlefield.
For ten years, the Ash Princess has seen her land pillaged and her people enslaved. That all ends here.
"Sure to be one of the summer's most talked about YAs. . . . A darkly enchanting page-turner you won't be able to put down."-Bustle
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Ash Princess by Laura Sebastian is a gripping fantasy novel that follows the story of Theodosia, a princess who has been held captive for years after her kingdom was conquered by the Kaiser. With her land subjugated and her people oppressed, Theodosia is forced to navigate a dangerous political landscape while trying to find a way to reclaim her kingdom. The book offers a mix of political intrigue, personal growth, and fierce determination, as Theodosia grapples with her past and learns to find her strength. The story is filled with twists, emotional depth, and strong character development, making it a compelling read for fans of fantasy and adventure. In terms of content, Ash Princess is a solid choice for readers who enjoy darker themes with a focus on resilience and survival, though it may not be suitable for younger readers who are sensitive to violence. The book includes some instances of violence and themes of oppression, as Theodosia's journey involves personal and political struggles, including the threat of physical harm and emotional trauma. While there is a romantic element to the story, it is relatively mild and does not include explicit sexual content. The romance is more about emotional connections and trust, and it adds to the development of the characters rather than focusing on physical relationships. Overall, Ash Princess is an engaging and thought-provoking novel that handles complex themes with care, making it appropriate for older teens and young adults looking for a story of empowerment, resilience, and survival.
(contains moderate romantic tension with some suggestive scenes, mild fantasy violence, and minimal swearing)
AUTHOR INGRID SEYMOUR
HOUSE OF THE RAVEN (BOOK 1)
When desire collides with deception, their love may be the key to freedom—or destruction.
While the fae trapped in my realm rebel, all I want is to escape the arranged marriage decreed by my father, the king.
Determined to live on my own terms, I flee, only to be pursued by my mysterious new royal guard, Bastien.
What begins as a dangerous game of cat and mouse soon ignites into a forbidden connection, filled with desire and emotions I’ve never known.
But when I discover Bastien’s true identity and my family’s connection to the fae’s imprisonment in my realm, I become a pawn in a different kind of game.
Forced into Bastien’s hands, a lying male who turns out to be ruthless and will stop at nothing to reopen the veil, I must fight to save my realm and my heart.
Even if it means sacrificing the love I thought I’d found.
This slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers series is perfect for fans of unique worlds, morally gray heroes, shifters and fae, romantic tension, stabby and fierce heroines, and touch her and unalive. It will appeal to readers of romantasy such as A Court of Thorns and Roses, Throne of Glass, From Blood and Ash, Shadow & Bone, and The Serpent & the Wings of Night.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
House of the Raven by Ingrid Seymour may be a great choice for readers who enjoy romantic fantasy with a mysterious, magical edge. The story blends elements of secret societies, supernatural powers, and budding romance, all set in an atmospheric world that invites curiosity and suspense. The romantic content includes some tension and a few mildly suggestive moments, but nothing graphic or explicit. This makes it accessible to those who enjoy romance as a subplot without venturing into more mature territory. For families comfortable with light romantic themes and fantasy conflict, this series offers an engaging and imaginative experience. That said, the book might not be ideal for readers or families who prefer stories free of romantic entanglements or fantasy violence. While the violence is mild and more magical than graphic, the storyline does involve danger, secrecy, and occasional intensity that may be unsettling for younger or highly sensitive readers. There is also some mild language, though it’s used sparingly. Families looking for clean, low-conflict stories may want to consider other options, but for those open to a richly woven fantasy with just a touch of romantic drama, House of the Raven could be a rewarding read.
AUTHOR MAEGAN M. SIMPSON
STONE HEART (BOOK 1)
A woman of secrets. A lord of living stone. Which will break first, the curse…or their hearts?
Ember is used to living on the fringes. When her family chooses her as the sacrifice to serve out their debts, Ember doesn’t expect her life to change that much. She’ll clean where she’s ordered, keep her head down, and survive another day. Life as usual…except Ember doesn’t need a storybook to tell her this castle is cursed. Even more troubling, the lord of the castle isn’t nearly as monstrous as appearances suggest. But Ember has a reason for keeping to the fringes, and failure could cost Ember her life.
Dyrerisan has spent well over a lifetime wandering the dark halls of his castle, alone in his thoughts. He has his own reasons for demanding a servant from Ember’s family, but a desire for companionship wasn’t one of them. But when Ember arrives on his steps, fearless and vibrant, he begins to wonder... Perhaps a life spent in isolation isn’t much of a life at all. But more than his own heart is at risk if he lets Ember in.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Stone Heart by Maegan M. Simpson is a fantastic choice for readers who enjoy captivating fantasy worlds and strong character development. The story blends elements of adventure and magic, following a young protagonist as they navigate challenges and uncover hidden truths. It’s ideal for readers looking for a blend of thrilling action and emotional depth, making it an excellent fit for families. The world-building and character arcs offer an engaging experience for both younger and older readers, especially those who enjoy fantasy stories with complex themes of growth, resilience, and friendship. Regarding content, Stone Heart does not contain explicit sexual material, making it suitable for a wide range of age groups, including younger readers. While there are romantic undertones and the characters experience some tension in their relationships, the book focuses more on personal development, action, and magic rather than romantic or sexual content. This makes it a good choice for families seeking an engaging fantasy series without concern about inappropriate themes. It’s a solid pick for those who value stories with depth, adventure, and strong moral messages.
(light romantic hints, some mild profanity, and moderate violence and magical peril)
AUTHOR ERIN MICHELLE SKY & STEVEN BROWN
THE WENDY (BOOK 1)
When the world doesn't want you to be who you are, you must become more yourself than you knew you could be.
London. 1789. More than anything in the world, Wendy Darling wants to be the captain of a ship, but women aren't allowed in the Royal Navy. When she learns the Home Office is accepting a handful of women into its ranks, she jumps at the chance, joining the fight against the most formidable threat England has ever faced.
Magic.
But serving in secret isn't exactly what she'd hoped for. Accompanied by a reimagined cast of the original Peter Pan, Wendy soon discovers that her dreams are as far away as ever, that choosing sides isn't as simple as she thought, and that the only man who isn't blinded by her gender ... might be her nation's greatest enemy.
Praise for The Wendy, by Erin Michelle Sky & Steven Brown:
"All the markings of a classic … captivating and delightful." — Lydia Sherrer, USA TODAY Bestselling Author of Love, Lies & Hocus Pocus
"This is a strong retelling of Peter Pan, with an empowered female protagonist who carves her own path. Wendy's sharp wit is truly impressive." — School Library Journal
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Wendy by Erin Michelle Sky and Steven Brown offers a refreshing and empowering reimagining of the Peter Pan legend, centering on a fiercely intelligent and capable heroine. This book shines as a strong choice for families seeking adventurous fantasy with a blend of historical and magical elements. The protagonist, Wendy Darling, is portrayed as brave and witty, challenging societal norms in a way that can inspire readers to think critically about gender roles and expectations. With themes of loyalty, courage, and friendship, the story fosters valuable discussion opportunities for readers of many ages. However, families should be aware that The Wendy contains some mild swearing, moments of peril, and moderate fantasy violence that may not suit every reader's preferences. While there is romantic tension, it remains appropriate for a general teen audience and avoids explicit content. The story’s darker undertones and occasional intensity may be too much for sensitive younger readers, but overall, it maintains a tone that balances action with thoughtful character development, making it a mostly family-friendly read for those ready for its emotional and thematic depth.
(slow‑burn romance with mild sensual tension (no explicit scenes), battlefield violence and magical peril, occasional coarser language)
AUTHOR MARIA V. SNYDER
TOUCH OF POWER (BOOK 1)
A magic healer must journey to cure a sick prince in this fantasy adventure series launch by the New York Times–bestselling author of the Study series.
Laying hands upon the injured and dying, Avry of Kazan absorbs their wounds and diseases into herself. But rather than being honored for her skills, she is hunted. Healers like Avry are accused of spreading the plague that has decimated the Fifteen Realms, leaving the survivors in a state of chaos.
Stressed and tired from hiding, Avry is abducted by a band of rogues who, shockingly, value her gift above the golden bounty offered for her capture. Their leader, an enigmatic captor-protector with powers of his own, is unequivocal in his demands: Avry must heal a plague-stricken prince—leader of a campaign against her people. As they traverse the daunting Nine Mountains, beset by mercenaries and magical dangers, Avry must decide who is worth healing and what is worth dying for. Because the price of peace may well be her life . . .
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder might be a great choice for readers who enjoy strong female protagonists, magical world-building, and a blend of action and emotional depth. The story includes a romantic subplot that develops gradually and stays within wholesome boundaries—there are moments of attraction and light sensual tension, but no explicit sexual content. Violence does play a role, as the plot involves plague survivors, political unrest, and magical warfare, but it’s handled with restraint and doesn’t glorify gore. Families who are comfortable with fantasy elements and mild romantic themes will likely find this series both engaging and age-appropriate. On the other hand, some parents may prefer to preview the book due to its darker themes involving death, betrayal, and occasional war-related brutality. While not overly graphic, these elements may be too intense for more sensitive readers or those unaccustomed to heavier content. There’s also some coarse language sprinkled throughout, though it’s not excessive. If your family tends to steer toward gentler narratives or avoids stories involving magic and violence, this series may not be the best fit. However, for mature readers who appreciate thoughtful characters and moral complexity without explicit content, it can be a compelling and meaningful read.
(some mild inappropriate language but otherwise clean)
AUTHOR JESSICA SORENSEN
THE FALLEN STAR (BOOK 1)
For eighteen year-old Gemma, life has never been normal. Up until recently, she has been incapable of feeling emotion. And when she’s around Alex, the gorgeous new guy at school, she can feel electricity that makes her skin buzz. Not to mention the monsters that haunt her nightmares have crossed over into real-life.
But with Alex seeming to hate her and secrets popping up everywhere, Gemma’s life is turning into a chaotic mess. Things that shouldn’t be real suddenly seem to exist. And as her world falls apart, figuring out the secrets of her past becomes a matter of life and death.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Fallen Star by Jessica Sorensen is a compelling fantasy novel that will appeal to readers who enjoy a blend of romance, mystery, and supernatural elements. The story follows the journey of a young girl who discovers her true identity as a fallen star, filled with magical powers and a destined role. This series is engaging for readers who love stories centered around self-discovery, fantasy worlds, and overcoming challenges. Its fast-paced narrative, relatable characters, and immersive world make it an exciting read for both teens and adults alike. In terms of content, The Fallen Star includes some romantic elements but avoids explicit sexual content, making it a great option for younger readers, particularly those who enjoy a bit of romance without it being a central focus of the story. The relationships in the book develop with a focus on emotional connections rather than physical intimacy, and while there are moments of tension and attraction, the story stays appropriate for a broad range of ages. Overall, this series is a good choice for families looking for a blend of supernatural adventure and mild romance with no overwhelming mature themes.
(mild violence, darker themes involving revenge, and subtle romantic elements)
AUTHOR MEAGAN SPOONER
HUNTED
New York Times bestselling author Meagan Spooner spins a thoroughly thrilling Beauty and the Beast story for the modern age, expertly woven with spellbinding romance, intrigue, and suspense that readers won’t soon be able to forget.
Beauty knows the Beast's forest in her bones—and in her blood. After all, her father is the only hunter who’s ever come close to discovering its secrets.
So when her father loses his fortune and moves Yeva and her sisters out of their comfortable home among the aristocracy and back to the outskirts of town, Yeva is secretly relieved. Out in the wilderness, there’s no pressure to make idle chatter with vapid baronessas…or to submit to marrying a wealthy gentleman.
But Yeva’s father’s misfortune may have cost him his mind, and when he goes missing in the woods, Yeva sets her sights on one prey: the creature he’d been obsessively tracking just before his disappearance. The Beast.
Deaf to her sisters’ protests, Yeva hunts this strange creature back into his own territory—a cursed valley, a ruined castle, and a world of magical creatures that Yeva’s only heard about in fairy tales. A world that can bring her ruin, or salvation.
Who will survive: the Beauty, or the Beast?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Hunted by Meagan Spooner is a captivating retelling of the classic Beauty and the Beast story, set in a dark and enchanted world where a young woman must survive in a dangerous forest while unraveling a mystery tied to her past. The book skillfully blends elements of adventure, romance, and fantasy, making it a great choice for readers who enjoy stories with strong, resilient protagonists and rich, atmospheric settings. The action-packed plot and well-developed characters will appeal to readers who love tales of survival, self-discovery, and the evolving dynamics between characters. In terms of content, Hunted offers an exciting yet responsible approach to romance and violence. There is some romantic tension between the main characters, but it is not overtly sexual—rather, it focuses on emotional connection and growth, making it appropriate for a wide range of ages. The themes of the book include courage, loyalty, and facing one's fears, and while there are darker moments and some scenes of danger, they are handled tastefully. There is no explicit sexual content, and the overall tone of the book is suitable for young adult and older readers. Hunted is an excellent choice for families looking for a thrilling yet appropriate fantasy novel with mild romance and an inspiring storyline.
(romantic elements and mild fantasy violence but contains no explicit sexual content or strong language)
AUTHOR NANCY SPRINGER
THE WHITE HART
An epic adventure awaits in the first novel of this classic fantasy series perfect for fans of J. R. R. Tolkien from an author who “writes like a dream” (St. Louis Post-Dispatch).
Welcome to Isle, a land of fantasy that existed long before there were such things. Surrounded by vast oceans and dotted with thick forests, Isle was a land in which all beings lived together. There were gods and ghosts dwelling with the Old Ones, the wise ancient ancestors. During this period, the Book of Suns began its life, though little was known about its contents. The mighty marriage between Sun and Moon begins an adventure never seen before.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Book of Isle series by Nancy Springer could be a rewarding choice for readers and families who enjoy classic high fantasy with lyrical prose, magical settings, and deeply emotional journeys. The stories weave together themes of identity, destiny, and love, all within a mythic framework that feels both timeless and introspective. Romance plays a significant role throughout the series, but it's presented in a poetic and restrained way, without explicit sexual content. This makes it appealing to readers who enjoy romantic tension and emotional depth without crossing into mature territory. On the other hand, families looking for action-driven fantasy or those sensitive to darker undertones in storytelling may want to approach with some caution. While the violence is not graphic, the series deals with betrayal, personal sacrifice, and emotional conflict, which may be intense for more sensitive readers. The tone is often melancholic and reflective rather than light or adventurous, which might not suit every reader’s taste. Still, for those who appreciate character-driven narratives and rich, myth-inspired worldbuilding, this series can be a thoughtful and enriching read.
(contains themes of child abuse, underage drinking, violence, and references to suicide)
AUTHOR MAGGIE STIEFVATER
THE RAVEN BOYS (BOOK 1)
Every year, Blue Sargent stands next to her clairvoyant mother as the soon-to-be dead walk past. Blue never sees them--until this year, when a boy emerges from the dark and speaks to her.
His name is Gansey, a rich student at Aglionby, the local private school. Blue has a policy of staying away from Aglionby boys. Known as Raven Boys, they can only mean trouble.
But Blue is drawn to Gansey, in a way she can't entirely explain. He is on a quest that has encompassed three other Raven Boys: Adam, the scholarship student who resents the privilege around him; Ronan, the fierce soul whose emotions range from anger to despair; and Noah, the taciturn watcher who notices many things but says very little.
For as long as she can remember, Blue has been warned that she will cause her true love to die. She doesn't believe in true love, and never thought this would be a problem. But as her life becomes caught up in the strange and sinister world of the Raven Boys, she's not so sure anymore.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Maggie Stiefvater’s The Raven Boys is a beautifully written blend of fantasy, mystery, and coming-of-age themes. The story follows Blue, a girl who comes from a family of psychics, as she becomes entangled with a group of boys from a prestigious school searching for a long-lost ley line. The book explores deep themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the complexity of human relationships, making it a great choice for readers who enjoy intricate plots and emotionally resonant characters. The series' mix of magic, mythology, and real-world issues provides a compelling reading experience for older teens and adults alike. In terms of content, The Raven Boys does not focus heavily on explicit sexual themes, but there are some romantic and emotional elements that are part of the story. While there is a budding romance, it is more about emotional connection and tension than physical intimacy. The characters’ relationships develop over time, and the romance is relatively mild and respectful. There are some intense and darker moments, especially as the characters face danger and supernatural challenges, but these moments are balanced by the overall themes of growth, loyalty, and friendship. The book is appropriate for readers who are looking for a deeper, more thoughtful fantasy series without explicit sexual content. It's an excellent choice for families who want to engage with a complex, well-crafted story without too much emphasis on mature themes.
(mild swearing, sensual kissing, kidnapping, talk of rape, drug administered by kidnapper)
AUTHOR AMANDA STRONG
HIDDEN MONSTER (BOOK 1)
For seventeen-year-old Samantha Campbell, running back woods trails usually means freedom from her less-than-perfect life. That is, until the day a morning run turns into a living nightmare. When Samantha wakes up to find herself bound to a dirty, pinstriped mattress, she realizes she’s anything but free. With a masked abductor repeatedly injecting her arm with an unknown substance while holding her captive, Samantha tries in vain to find out what he wants, but he refuses to speak. Until the day he breaks his silence and his twisted words are worse than what she’d imagined. He promises her one day she will fall in love with him but the best part will be that she won’t know who he is… until it’s too late.
Finding herself freed from captivity, with her captor still at large, Samantha is on guard against everything and everyone around her. Unfortunately, walling up her heart proves difficult when eighteen-year-old Blake Knightley moves in next door. When Samantha starts experiencing strange changes within her, she realizes her captor may have left her more damaged than she originally thought. Now she must turn to Blake for help in order to unearth the truth behind the monster who started this all… or risk experiencing worse things than just falling in love.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Amanda Strong’s Hidden Monster offers a captivating blend of fantasy and suspense with a strong focus on character development and emotional growth. The book follows the journey of a young protagonist dealing with a mysterious and dangerous world, full of monsters both literal and metaphorical. The plot engages readers with its layers of mystery and adventure, making it a compelling choice for teens and young adults who enjoy stories about overcoming personal fears and discovering inner strength. The series as a whole offers themes of bravery, self-empowerment, and the bonds that form in the face of adversity, providing both entertainment and valuable life lessons. Regarding content, Hidden Monster is relatively mild in terms of sexual themes. There may be some romantic elements present, but they are not the central focus of the story. The relationships in the book are more about trust, loyalty, and emotional connection rather than physical intimacy. The series emphasizes personal growth, friendships, and confronting fears, which makes it suitable for younger audiences, especially those looking for a story that is rich in fantasy and emotional depth without a strong focus on romance or explicit content. It’s a great choice for families looking for a thought-provoking, action-packed series with a solid moral foundation.
(contains mild swearing, non-graphic sexual content, and moderate fantasy violence)
AUTHOR TASHA SURI
EMPIRE OF SAND (BOOK 1)
*Named one of TIME's Top 100 Fantasy Books Of All Time
A nobleman's daughter with magic in her blood. An empire built on the dreams of enslaved gods. Empire of Sand is Tasha Suri's lush, dazzling, Mughal India-inspired debut fantasy.
The Amrithi are outcasts; nomads descended of desert spirits, they are coveted and persecuted throughout the Ambhan Empire for the power in their blood.
Mehr is the illegitimate daughter of an imperial governor and an exiled Amrithi mother she can barely remember, but whose face and magic she has inherited. When Mehr's power comes to the attention of the Emperor's most feared mystics, she must use every ounce of will, subtlety, and power she possesses to resist their cruel agenda.
And should she fail, the gods themselves may awaken seeking vengeance. . .
"An ode to the quiet, fierce strength of women. . .pure wonder." —Samantha Shannon, New York Times bestselling author of The Priory of the Orange Tree
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Empire of Sand by Tasha Suri is a richly imagined fantasy novel inspired by Mughal India, offering a compelling narrative that explores themes of identity, autonomy, and resistance. The story follows Mehr, a noblewoman with magical heritage, as she navigates a world where her lineage makes her both powerful and vulnerable. The novel features a tender and emotionally resonant romance that is integral to Mehr's personal growth, without explicit sexual content. The fantasy violence is moderate, focusing more on psychological tension and emotional stakes than graphic depictions. Mild swearing is present but not pervasive, making the book suitable for readers comfortable with mature themes presented thoughtfully. However, the novel delves into intense themes that may be challenging for some readers. Content warnings include confinement, death of a parent, and psychological manipulation, which are woven into the narrative to highlight the protagonist's struggles and resilience . These elements contribute to the depth of the story but 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.