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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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(contains moderate fantasy violence, emotional and physical abuse, mild self-harm ideation, underage alcohol use, and a slow-burn romance with no explicit scenes)
AUTHOR ROSEANNE A. BROWN
A SONG OF WRAITHS AND RUIN (BOOK 1)
The first in a gripping fantasy duology inspired by West African folklore in which a grieving crown princess and a desperate refugee find themselves on a collision course to murder each other despite their growing attraction—from debut author Roseanne A. Brown. Perfect for fans of Tomi Adeyemi, Renée Ahdieh, and Sabaa Tahir.
For Malik, the Solstasia festival is a chance to escape his war-stricken home and start a new life with his sisters in the prosperous desert city of Ziran. But when a vengeful spirit abducts his younger sister, Nadia, as payment to enter the city, Malik strikes a fatal deal—kill Karina, Crown Princess of Ziran, for Nadia’s freedom.
But Karina has deadly aspirations of her own. Her mother, the Sultana, has been assassinated; her court threatens mutiny; and Solstasia looms like a knife over her neck. Grief-stricken, Karina decides to resurrect her mother through ancient magic . . . requiring the beating heart of a king. And she knows just how to obtain one: by offering her hand in marriage to the victor of the Solstasia competition.
When Malik rigs his way into the contest, they are set on a heart-pounding course to destroy each other. But as attraction flares between them and ancient evils stir, will they be able to see their tasks to the death?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Roseanne A. Brown’s A Song of Wraiths and Ruin is a powerful and richly imagined fantasy that could be a great pick for families with teens who enjoy emotional depth, compelling worldbuilding, and stories that explore grief, identity, and resilience. With its West African-inspired setting and dual points of view—Malik, a boy struggling with anxiety, and Karina, a princess thrust into leadership—the book provides a lot of thoughtful material for discussion. The romance between the characters is a slow-burn and sweet, never overly graphic or explicit. There are hints of romantic tension and a few kisses, but the focus remains on character development and emotional connection, making it a good fit for readers around 13 and up. However, families should be aware that this series isn’t all magic and romance. There are darker elements woven into the story, including fantasy violence (such as murder and magical duels), emotional and physical trauma, and even mild references to self-harm ideation. While these themes are handled with care and contribute meaningfully to the story, they may be intense for younger or more sensitive readers. There’s also some swearing, though it’s relatively mild by YA standards. That said, the book offers valuable representation, especially for readers navigating mental health struggles, and can serve as a meaningful, even cathartic, read when approached with awareness and open conversation.
(contains romantic themes, fantasy violence, and occasional mild swearing)
AUTHOR JOSEPHINE ANGELINI
STARCROSSED
The passionate romance of Twilight meets Greek mythology in this dazzling debut about star-crossed demigods.
How do you defy destiny?
Helen Hamilton has spent her entire sixteen years trying to hide how different she is - no easy task on an island as small and sheltered as Nantucket. And it's getting harder.
Nightmares of a desperate desert journey have Helen waking parched, only to find her sheets damaged by dirt and dust. At school she's haunted by hallucinations of three women weeping tears of blood... and when Helen first crosses paths with Lucas Delos, she has no way of knowing they're destined to play the leading roles in a tragedy the Fates insist on repeating throughout history.
As Helen unlocks the secrets of her ancestry, she realizes that some myths are more than just legend. But even demigod powers might not be enough to defy the forces that are both drawing her and Lucas together - and trying to tear them apart.
“OMGods, I can’t wait to read more!” — Lauren Kate, New York Times bestselling author of Fallen
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Josephine Angelini’s Starcrossed could be a great pick for readers who enjoy modern mythology with a dramatic, romantic twist. The story follows Helen Hamilton, a seemingly ordinary teen who discovers she’s actually part of a powerful legacy tied to Greek mythology. The book is full of action, ancient curses, and forbidden love, making it a thrilling read for teens who enjoy series like Percy Jackson but want something with a little more romance and emotional intensity. The themes of destiny, identity, and sacrifice make it engaging on a deeper level, while the fast-paced plot and supernatural elements keep things exciting from start to finish. In terms of content, Starcrossed is mostly appropriate for older teens, around ages 13 and up. There is some sensual content—such as romantic tension and a few heated kisses between the main characters—but there’s no graphic sexual content or explicit scenes. The romance plays a central role in the plot, but it's handled in a way that keeps it within a PG-13 range. Parents and readers looking for stories with romance but without explicit material might find Starcrossed a satisfying choice. However, the intense romantic emotions and references to ancient myths involving betrayal and violence might be a bit heavy for younger readers, so it's best suited for a mature middle-grade reader or teen audience.
(mild profanity, violence, and romantic scenes that imply intimacy but are fade-to-black)
AUTHOR RENEE AHDIEH
THE WRATH AND THE DAWN
A #1 New York Times Bestseller!
“A riveting Game of Thrones meets Arabian Nights love story.” - US Weekly
Every dawn brings horror to a different family in a land ruled by a killer. Khalid, the eighteen-year-old Caliph of Khorasan, takes a new bride each night only to have her executed at sunrise. So it is a suspicious surprise when sixteen-year-old Shahrzad volunteers to marry Khalid. But she does so with a clever plan to stay alive and exact revenge on the Caliph for the murder of her best friend and countless other girls. Shazi’s wit and will, indeed, get her through to the dawn that no others have seen, but with a catch . . . she’s falling in love with the very boy who killed her dearest friend.
She discovers that the murderous boy-king is not all that he seems and neither are the deaths of so many girls. Shazi is determined to uncover the reason for the murders and to break the cycle once and for all.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Renée Ahdieh’s The Wrath and the Dawn is a rich, beautifully written fantasy inspired by One Thousand and One Nights, making it a compelling choice for readers who enjoy lush settings, strong heroines, and slow-burn romance. The story follows Shahrzad, a bold young woman who volunteers to marry the murderous Caliph of Khorasan to seek revenge for her best friend’s death—but things get complicated when she begins to fall for him. Ahdieh’s storytelling is elegant and emotionally intense, with vivid descriptions and layers of political intrigue, magic, and love. It's a great option for readers who enjoy character-driven stories with powerful emotional arcs. When it comes to content, there is some sensual content, including romantic scenes and suggestive language, but any sexual moments are implied rather than graphically described. The romantic tension is central to the plot and may feel intense for younger readers, but it’s presented in a tasteful and mature way. The book also contains some violence and emotional trauma, given its darker themes of betrayal and revenge, but nothing overly graphic. Overall, it’s a solid choice for older teens and families comfortable with romantic tension and mild sensual content in the context of a thoughtful, well-crafted fantasy.
(some mild swear words, kissing, and some violence)
AUTHOR BRODI ASHTON
EVERNEATH
Last spring, Nikki Beckett vanished, sucked into an underworld known as the Everneath. Now she’s returned—to her old life, her family, her boyfriend—before she’s banished back to the underworld . . . this time forever. She has six months before the Everneath comes to claim her, six months for good-byes she can’t find the words for, six months to find redemption, if it exists.
Nikki longs to spend these precious months forgetting the Everneath and trying to reconnect with her boyfriend, Jack, the person most devastated by her disappearance—and the one person she loves more than anything. But there’s just one problem: Cole, the smoldering immortal who enticed her to the Everneath in the first place, has followed Nikki home. Cole wants to take over the throne in the underworld and is convinced Nikki is the key to making it happen. And he’ll do whatever it takes to bring her back, this time as his queen.
As Nikki’s time on the Surface draws to a close and her relationships begin slipping from her grasp, she is forced to make the hardest decision of her life: find a way to cheat fate and remain on the Surface with Jack or return to the Everneath and become Cole’s queen.
Everneath is a captivating story of love, loss, and immortality from debut author Brodi Ashton.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Brodi Ashton’s Everneath is a haunting and emotional retelling of the Persephone myth, blended with a modern setting and a deep exploration of grief, love, and redemption. It follows Nikki Beckett, a girl who returns to the surface world after being trapped in the Everneath—a dark underworld-like realm where she fed off emotion for a century (which passed as just six months in the real world). Now she has a limited time to make peace with her past before being pulled back. The series is a great choice for readers who love mythological twists, star-crossed love, and a more introspective tone than most fast-paced fantasies. It’s beautifully written and touches on real emotional struggles in a way that many teens can connect with. In terms of content, there is some romantic tension between Nikki and her love interests, and a few scenes that include kissing or emotionally intense moments, but nothing explicit or overly sensual. The emotional depth of the story actually takes center stage more than the romance, and the tone is more melancholic than steamy. While the story does touch on mature themes like loss, addiction (metaphorically), and making difficult choices, these are handled thoughtfully and without graphic detail. It’s a safe and engaging option for families looking for a clean, thought-provoking read for older teens.
(some mild swear words, kissing, and some violence)
AUTHOR ANNA BANKS
OF POSEIDON (BOOK 1)
Galen, a Syrena prince, searches land for a girl he's heard can communicate with fish. It's while Emma is on vacation at the beach that she meets Galen. Although their connection is immediate and powerful, Galen's not fully convinced that Emma's the one he's been looking for. That is, until a deadly encounter with a shark proves that Emma and her Gift may be the only thing that can save his kingdom. He needs her help--no matter what the risk.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Anna Banks’s Of Poseidon is a fun and fast-paced paranormal romance that brings a splash of humor and adventure to the world of young adult fiction. The story centers on Emma, a seemingly ordinary girl who discovers she has a connection to the underwater world of the Syrena—essentially modern-day mermaids. With a mix of mythology, mystery, and lighthearted romance, the book appeals to readers who enjoy witty dialogue, fish-out-of-water (pun intended) storylines, and charming, swoon-worthy characters. It’s especially engaging for teens who liked series like The Selection or Twilight but want something a little more beachy and mythological. In terms of content, there’s definite romantic chemistry and some flirtatious scenes, including kissing and a moment where a character walks in on another in a compromising (but not explicit) situation. While there are a few innuendos and suggestive moments, nothing goes beyond surface-level sensuality, and there are no graphic sexual scenes. The series does touch on themes like identity, loss, and loyalty, but all within a framework that feels appropriate for older middle schoolers and high school readers. Overall, it's a light, entertaining read that balances romance and mythology without pushing too far into mature territory.
(sensual kissing, occasional strong language, fighting and killing with swords--including descriptions of violence toward children)
AUTHOR ALEXANDRA BRACKEN
LORE (BOOK 1)
Every seven years, the Agon begins. As punishment for a past rebellion, nine Greek gods are forced to walk the earth as mortals. They are hunted by the descendants of ancient bloodlines, all eager to kill a god and seize their divine power and immortality.
Long ago, Lore Perseous fled that brutal world, turning her back on the hunt’s promises of eternal glory after her family was murdered by a rival line. For years she's pushed away any thought of revenge against the man—now a god—responsible for their deaths.
Yet as the next hunt dawns over New York City, two participants seek her out: Castor, a childhood friend Lore believed to be dead, and Athena, one of the last of the original gods, now gravely wounded.
The goddess offers an alliance against their mutual enemy and a way to leave the Agon behind forever. But Lore's decision to rejoin the hunt, binding her fate to Athena's, will come at a deadly cost—and it may not be enough to stop the rise of a new god with the power to bring humanity to its knees.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Alexandra Bracken’s Lore is a gripping and intense standalone novel that blends Greek mythology with urban fantasy and high-stakes action. Set in a modern-day New York City where gods walk among mortals during a deadly event called the Agon, the story follows Lore Perseous, a girl trying to escape her brutal past but who gets pulled back into a world of divine power, vengeance, and survival. The book is rich with lore (pun intended), fast-paced fight scenes, and a fierce, determined heroine. For readers who enjoy mythology-based stories with a darker edge—similar to The Hunger Games meets Percy Jackson for older teens—Lore offers a compelling, cinematic experience. In terms of content, there are intense fight scenes, deaths, and moments of emotional trauma, but none of it is gratuitous—it all fits the brutal, myth-inspired setting. The romance is present but not the central focus, and while there are a few kissing scenes and some implied intimacy, there’s no graphic or explicit sexual content. The book also touches on heavier themes like grief, abuse of power, and revenge, which may be intense for younger readers but are thoughtfully handled. Overall, Lore is a smart and exciting choice for older teens and families comfortable with action-packed stories that explore complex moral questions in a mythological context.
(contains moderate fantasy violence, emotional and physical abuse, mild self-harm ideation, underage alcohol use, and a slow-burn romance with no explicit scenes)
AUTHOR ROSEANNE A. BROWN
A SONG OF WRAITHS AND RUIN (BOOK 1)
The first in a gripping fantasy duology inspired by West African folklore in which a grieving crown princess and a desperate refugee find themselves on a collision course to murder each other despite their growing attraction—from debut author Roseanne A. Brown. Perfect for fans of Tomi Adeyemi, Renée Ahdieh, and Sabaa Tahir.
For Malik, the Solstasia festival is a chance to escape his war-stricken home and start a new life with his sisters in the prosperous desert city of Ziran. But when a vengeful spirit abducts his younger sister, Nadia, as payment to enter the city, Malik strikes a fatal deal—kill Karina, Crown Princess of Ziran, for Nadia’s freedom.
But Karina has deadly aspirations of her own. Her mother, the Sultana, has been assassinated; her court threatens mutiny; and Solstasia looms like a knife over her neck. Grief-stricken, Karina decides to resurrect her mother through ancient magic . . . requiring the beating heart of a king. And she knows just how to obtain one: by offering her hand in marriage to the victor of the Solstasia competition.
When Malik rigs his way into the contest, they are set on a heart-pounding course to destroy each other. But as attraction flares between them and ancient evils stir, will they be able to see their tasks to the death?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Roseanne A. Brown’s A Song of Wraiths and Ruin is a powerful and richly imagined fantasy that could be a great pick for families with teens who enjoy emotional depth, compelling worldbuilding, and stories that explore grief, identity, and resilience. With its West African-inspired setting and dual points of view—Malik, a boy struggling with anxiety, and Karina, a princess thrust into leadership—the book provides a lot of thoughtful material for discussion. The romance between the characters is a slow-burn and sweet, never overly graphic or explicit. There are hints of romantic tension and a few kisses, but the focus remains on character development and emotional connection, making it a good fit for readers around 13 and up. However, families should be aware that this series isn’t all magic and romance. There are darker elements woven into the story, including fantasy violence (such as murder and magical duels), emotional and physical trauma, and even mild references to self-harm ideation. While these themes are handled with care and contribute meaningfully to the story, they may be intense for younger or more sensitive readers. There’s also some swearing, though it’s relatively mild by YA standards. That said, the book offers valuable representation, especially for readers navigating mental health struggles, and can serve as a meaningful, even cathartic, read when approached with awareness and open conversation.
(some swearing including use of a couple harsher swear words, some violent scenes)
AUTHOR NELY CAB
CREATURA (BOOK 1 IN THE CREATURA SERIES)
Isis can control her dreams. Or she could—until recently. The creature in her nightmares has been haunting her for months. As if being dumped wasn’t bad enough, now she dreads going to sleep. She decides to confront the creature and win back some of her peace; only, she finds that he’s not a monster and he’s not a dream. A sacrifice for love, a shocking discovery and a jealous ex-boyfriend blur the lines between reality and dreams, making it hard to tell who the real monsters are.
Who would’ve known…that sometimes love is lethal?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Nely Cab’s Creatura is a unique and imaginative paranormal romance that explores mythology, dreams, and the power of belief. The story follows Isis, a teenage girl who suffers from terrifying nightmares—until one day, the creature haunting her dreams appears in her real life. What unfolds is a fantastical journey filled with romance, ancient beings, and questions of destiny and free will. For readers who enjoy books with a mysterious, dreamlike quality and a deep emotional core, Creatura offers an intriguing escape into a world where fantasy and reality blur. It’s especially appealing to fans of supernatural romance with a touch of mythology and psychological depth. Content-wise, there is a strong romantic element, and the chemistry between Isis and her love interest includes some sensual tension and affectionate scenes—like kissing and close physical interactions—but nothing graphic or explicitly sexual. The story touches on themes of identity, love, and emotional trauma, all framed within a clean, romantic fantasy. While younger readers might find some scenes emotionally intense or complex, the content remains appropriate for older teens. Overall, Creatura is a good choice for families looking for a romantic fantasy that’s passionate but stays within the bounds of a teen-friendly narrative.
(themes of death, the afterlife, mild violence, kissing, but no explicit content)
AUTHOR MEG CABOT
ABANDON (BOOK 1)
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Meg Cabot, a dark, fantastical story about this world . . . and the underworld.
Pierce knows what it's like to die, because she's done it before. Though she tries returning to the life she knew before the accident, Pierce can't help but feel at once a part of this world, and apart from it. Yet she's never alone . . . because someone is always watching her.Now she's moved to a new town, but even here, he finds her. Pierce knows he's no guardian angel, and his dark world isn't exactly heaven, yet she can't stay away . . . especially since he always appears when she least expects it, but exactly when she needs him most. If she lets herself fall any further, she may just find herself back in the one place she most fears: the Underworld.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Meg Cabot’s Abandon series is a modern, moody retelling of the Persephone and Hades myth with a signature Meg Cabot twist—witty dialogue, relatable characters, and a touch of dark romance. The story follows Pierce Oliviera, a girl who has a near-death experience and finds herself tied to John Hayden, the mysterious ruler of the Underworld. As Pierce navigates the strange connection between life and death, love and danger, the series blends mythological intrigue with everyday teen struggles. It’s a great pick for readers who enjoy a gothic atmosphere mixed with Cabot’s trademark humor and heart. Content-wise, there’s a romantic subplot that builds over the series, including some kissing and emotionally intense moments, but the sensual content stays fairly mild—no graphic or explicit scenes. The darker tone and references to death and the Underworld may be intense for younger readers, but everything is presented in a way that’s appropriate for teens. Parents and families looking for a romance-heavy fantasy that balances myth, mystery, and a clean love story will likely find Abandon a solid and safe choice for older middle schoolers and up.
(mild swearing, some violent scenes, kissing)
AUTHOR KIERA CASS
THE SIREN
#1 New York Times bestseller
A sweeping stand-alone fantasy romance from Kiera Cass, author of the bestselling, beloved Selection series.
Kahlen is a Siren—bound to serve the Ocean by luring humans to their watery graves with her voice, which is deadly to any human who hears it. Akinli is human—a kind, handsome boy who’s everything Kahlen ever dreamed of. Falling in love puts them both in danger… but will Kahlen risk everything to follow her heart?
This star-crossed YA romance is sure to captivate readers who grew up loving The Little Mermaid or fans of Jennifer Donnelly’s Waterfire Saga.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Kiera Cass’s The Siren is a romantic and emotionally rich standalone novel that blends fairy-tale magic with a modern setting. The story centers on Kahlen, a siren bound to serve the Ocean by luring humans to their deaths with her voice—until she falls in love with a human boy, which threatens everything. Known for her popular Selection series, Cass brings her signature romantic style to this book, weaving themes of love, sacrifice, identity, and redemption. With its lyrical tone and heartfelt storytelling, The Siren is a great fit for readers who enjoy clean romance with a mythological twist. In terms of content, there’s romance and a few sweet kissing scenes, but nothing explicit or sensual beyond that. The emotional depth and inner conflict of the characters take center stage rather than physical intimacy. While the story does explore themes like death, destiny, and moral dilemmas, it does so gently and thoughtfully. Overall, The Siren is a safe and engaging choice for families looking for a clean, romantic fantasy that balances fairy-tale elements with meaningful emotional growth.
(intense scenes, sensual kissing, and main characters sleeping in the same bed, but with no sex)
AUTHOR SHELLY CRANE
SIGNIFICANCE (A SIGNIFICANCE SERIES NOVEL)
Maggie is a seventeen year old girl who's had a bad year. She was smart and on track, but her mom left, her dad is depressed, she's graduating, barely, and her boyfriend of almost three years dumped her for a college football scholarship. Lately she thinks life is all about hanging on by a thread and is gripping tight with everything she has.
Then she meets Caleb.
She saves his life and instantly knows there's something about him that's intriguing, but she's supposed to be on her way to a date with his cousin. Things change when they touch, sparks ignite. Literally.
They imprint with each other and she sees their future life together flash before her eyes. She learns that not only is she his soul mate, and can feel his heartbeat in her chest, but there is a whole other world of people with gifts and abilities that she never knew existed. She herself is experiencing supernatural changes unlike anything she's ever felt before and she needs the touch of his skin to survive. Now, not only has her dad come out of his depression to be a father again, and a pain as well, but Caleb's enemies know he's imprinted and are after Maggie to stop them both from gaining their abilities and take her from him.
Can Caleb save her or will they be forced to live without each other after just finding one another?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Shelly Crane’s Significance series is a sweet, romantic paranormal story that centers on soulmates, supernatural powers, and the emotional bond between two people destined to be together. The series kicks off with Maggie, a girl who’s feeling lost and broken after a rough year—until she meets Caleb, and the two “imprint,” forming an instant and unbreakable connection. The story explores themes of love, healing, family, and loyalty, all wrapped in a world where people with special abilities, called Aces, live among us. It’s an appealing choice for readers who enjoy gentle love stories with a fantasy twist and characters who grow together emotionally. When it comes to content, there is some sensual content—like kissing, cuddling, and romantic tension due to the strong emotional bond between the characters—but there’s no graphic sexual content. As the series progresses, the romantic relationship deepens, and there are a few implied off-page moments between married characters, but everything is handled with a focus on emotional connection rather than physical detail. Families looking for a romantic series with a strong message of commitment and love, without explicit content, will likely find Significance to be a safe and enjoyable read for older teens.
(violence and dark themes; best for mature 13+ readers)
AUTHOR ALEXANDRA CHRISTO
TO KILL A KINGDOM (BOOK 1)
AN INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER
This action-packed YA debut pits a deadly siren princess and a siren-hunting human prince against each other as they fight to protect their kingdoms.
Princess Lira is siren royalty and the most lethal of them all. With the hearts of seventeen princes in her collection, she is revered across the sea. Until a twist of fate forces her to kill one of her own. To punish her daughter, the Sea Queen transforms Lira into the one thing they loathe most―a human. Robbed of her song, Lira has until the winter solstice to deliver Prince Elian’s heart to the Sea Queen and or remain a human forever.
The ocean is the only place Prince Elian calls home, even though he is heir to the most powerful kingdom in the world. Hunting sirens is more than an unsavory hobby―it’s his calling. When he rescues a drowning woman in the ocean, she’s more than what she appears. She promises to help him find the key to destroying all of sirenkind for good―but can he trust her? And just how many deals will Elian have to barter to eliminate mankind’s greatest enemy?
Alexandra Christo's young adult novel To Kill a Kingdom is a thrilling fantasy adventure.
"With well-crafted fight scenes and vivid descriptions, Christo has created a world of beauty and monstrosity that will draw readers in." ―Publishers Weekly
"Fantasy fans will like the idea of sirens and piratelike princes as the characters who are imaginative and well developed." ―School Library Journal
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Alexandra Christo’s To Kill a Kingdom is a dark and captivating standalone fantasy that offers a thrilling twist on The Little Mermaid legend. It follows Lira, a deadly siren known as the Prince’s Bane, and Elian, a pirate prince who hunts her kind. When Lira is transformed into a human as punishment, the two enemies are forced into an uneasy alliance, setting the stage for an epic adventure full of banter, battles, and slow-burning romance. With its rich world-building, sharp dialogue, and morally complex characters, this book is a great choice for readers who enjoy fairy tale retellings with a fierce, edgy vibe. Content-wise, there’s some violence and danger—especially involving sirens and pirates—but it’s not overly graphic. The romance is definitely present and includes some kissing and flirtation, but there are no explicit or sexual scenes. The romantic tension builds gradually and stays appropriate for teen readers. The story’s darker themes—like vengeance, identity, and redemption—are handled thoughtfully, adding emotional weight without crossing into inappropriate territory. Overall, it's a smart and exciting read for older teens and families looking for fantasy that’s bold and adventurous but still clean.
(contains mild romantic themes, fantasy violence, and occasional mild swearing)
AUTHOR KRISTEN DAY
FORSAKEN (BOOK 1)
Once you’ve been touched by darkness, it never leaves you…
Abandoned by her parents as an infant; seventeen year old Hannah spent her childhood wading through countless foster families until being adopted by the Whitmans three years ago. Unfortunately, Atlanta’s high society wasn’t quite ready for Hannah…or the strange events that plague her
Chilling visions of murder, unexplained hallucinations, and a dark, mysterious guy who haunts her nightmares all culminate to set in motion a journey of self-discovery that will challenge everything she’s ever believed; not to mention her sanity.
Sent to live at The House of Lorelei on Bald Head Island, NC for ‘kids like her’, Hannah quickly realizes things are not what they seem. Her fellow ‘disturbed’ teens are actually the descendants of mythical Sea Gods and Goddesses. And so is she.
But when Finn, the ghost from her dreams, appears in the flesh; her nightmares become reality and her dark visions begin coming true. Inexplicably drawn to him, she can’t deny the dangerous hold he has on her heart. The deadly secrets he harbors will ultimately test her courage and push the boundaries of her love.
She must decide if she is ready to embrace the ancient legend she is prophesized to be a part of. The fate of all the descendants will forever depend upon it.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Kristen Day’s Forsaken is an engaging paranormal romance that blends myth, destiny, and suspense. The story follows Riley, a girl who learns she’s the descendant of a goddess and must navigate the complexities of her newfound powers while dealing with the mysterious boy, Finn, who appears in her life. The series offers an exciting mix of supernatural elements, emotional conflict, and romance, making it a great choice for readers who enjoy mythological themes with a modern twist. The fast-paced plot, relatable characters, and the tension between love and duty will appeal to fans of paranormal romance and urban fantasy. When it comes to content, the romantic relationship between Riley and Finn is central to the plot, with some kissing and flirtation, but there’s no graphic sexual content. The emotional intensity of their connection is explored, but the focus remains on their developing bond and the supernatural challenges they face. There are also themes of identity, family, and trust, which are tackled thoughtfully and without explicit detail. Families looking for a romantic and action-packed story with mythological elements will find Forsaken a solid and safe option for teens, with a compelling mix of romance and adventure that stays within appropriate bounds.
(violent scenes (including attempted rape), and sensual kissing)
AUTHOR JENNIFER DERRICK
BROKEN FATE
Zeus gave her one simple job: Kill every human. Atropos—daughter of Zeus and the third goddess of Fate from Greek mythology —spends her eternal life snipping human lifelines when their mortal lives are over. As if being a killer doesn’t make life miserable enough, she and her Fate-wielding sisters must live amongst the humans on Earth thanks to a long-running feud between their mother and Zeus. Living on Earth means they must mingle with the mortals, attend the local high school, and attempt to fit in—or at least not stand out too much.
Killing and mingling don’t mix, which is why Atropos’ number-one rule is to avoid all relationships with the humans. Caring for the people she has to kill is a fast track to insanity. However, when Alex Morgan walks into her first-period English class, she knows she’s in for trouble. He’s the worst kind of human for her to like—one with a rapidly approaching expiration date. And he makes Atropos want to break all the rules.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Jennifer Derrick’s Broken Fate is a gripping blend of fantasy, mythology, and romance, perfect for readers who enjoy supernatural worlds with a strong emotional core. The story follows Tessa, a girl who discovers she is bound by an ancient fate tied to the gods and must navigate a world of dangerous creatures, family secrets, and forbidden love. The mix of adventure, magic, and romance provides a captivating narrative that will keep readers hooked as Tessa fights to control her destiny and her growing feelings for a mysterious love interest. It’s an engaging choice for fans of fantasy with high stakes and strong, independent heroines. In terms of content, the romance between Tessa and her love interest includes some kissing and moments of emotional intimacy, but nothing explicit or graphic. The plot is more focused on the adventure, the mythology, and the emotional journey of the protagonist, with romance being a secondary element. The story does explore themes of fate, family loyalty, and identity, all within a framework that stays appropriate for older teens. Families looking for a thrilling, action-packed fantasy with clean romance and no explicit sexual content will likely find Broken Fate a good fit for their reading list.
AUTHOR D. G. DRIVER
CRY OF THE SEA (BOOK 1)
Juniper Sawfeather is the teen daughter of environmental activists. When she helps her father document damage at a reported oil spill, she discovers three mermaids washed up on the beach covered with oil. In her efforts to rescue the mermaids, she soon finds herself in the middle of a struggle between her parents, the media, a marine biologist (and his handsome young intern), the popular clique at school, and the oil company over the fate of the mermaids. Can she protect them from being exploited? Or killed?
(includes mild romance, some fantasy violence with sea creatures, no swearing, and no sexual content)
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
D.G. Driver’s Cry of the Sea is an engaging and wholesome fantasy novel that blends adventure, mythology, and a touch of romance in a way that’s perfect for younger readers. The story follows Isla, a teenager with a special connection to the sea, as she navigates a world of ancient myths and supernatural creatures. The book is filled with emotional depth as Isla discovers her own strength, deals with personal loss, and learns the importance of protecting the natural world. Its combination of fantasy, environmental themes, and relatable character development makes it an excellent choice for readers who enjoy stories with a blend of adventure and self-discovery. Content-wise, Cry of the Sea is a great fit for middle-grade to early high school readers. There is a mild romance between Isla and a boy she meets, but it remains innocent and doesn't delve into any graphic or sexual content. The book includes some fantasy violence, such as encounters with dangerous sea creatures, but it’s not excessively graphic or disturbing. There’s no swearing, and the themes of family, nature, and growing up are explored thoughtfully. It’s a safe and enjoyable read for families looking for a clean, exciting story with strong moral undertones and no concerns about mature content.
(violent scenes (including attempted rape), and sensual kissing)
AUTHORS JAYMIN EVE & LEIA STONE
RELEASING THE GODS
It all started with a dare.
A single dare on Maisey Parker's twenty first birthday and her entire life changed. One second she was getting drunk with her friends, and the next she was climbing a cliff, cutting her hand, and accidentally offering a blood sacrifice that opened a thousand year old prison. A prison that contained the only living Titan. One too powerful to kill. One that wants nothing to do with being attached to Maisey.
Cronus has an old score to settle with the Greek Pantheon. Lucky she has some sick days saved up at work, because Maisey is dragged along whether she likes it or not. A decision Cronus no doubt regretted right around the time she makes a colossal mistake, unleashing an untold evil on the world. Now they're in a race against the clock to resurrect the other Titans, the only beings who can contain the evil. They're the world's last hope. And Maisey's.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Jaymin Eve & Leia Stone’s Releasing the Gods is a fast-paced, action-packed fantasy with a rich world that blends mythology, romance, and adventure. The story follows a group of powerful beings—gods from various mythologies—who are bound to a young woman named Kalissa. As she helps free them, she becomes entangled in battles against dark forces, forging strong bonds and navigating her own powers. The book’s focus on self-discovery, teamwork, and powerful relationships makes it a compelling choice for readers who enjoy supernatural themes mixed with strong, independent heroines and action-packed sequences. Content-wise, Releasing the Gods is best suited for older teens due to some mature themes and mild sensual content. There are several romantic subplots, and while the romance isn’t explicit, there is a degree of physical tension, with kissing and moments of intimacy. The book contains no graphic sexual scenes but does include some innuendos and suggestive moments as the romantic relationships develop. Additionally, the story features some violence, primarily action-oriented battles between gods and dark forces, but it’s not overly graphic. Families looking for a thrilling fantasy with strong romance elements should be aware that it may be better suited for readers 16 and up due to the mature themes and romance.