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Chloe has nine lives. But will nine be enough?
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(new adult fantasy romance featuring a slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers storyline, with fade-to-black intimacy, moderate violence, and strong language)
AUTHOR SARAH MARIE PAGE
ILLUSION OF STARS (BOOK 1)
SHE'S STEALING MORE THAN SECRETS
As the royal physician of a tiny, windswept island, eighteen-year-old Isabel spends her days trying to keep the queen from dying and the mad king from streaking naked down the halls. But when her best friend is found murdered on the beaches, her world is ripped apart. Desperate for answers, she discovers a stash of letters that reveal a terrifying truth: the neighboring kingdom of Volgaard possesses a kingdom-shattering weapon and is ready to conquer everything in its path.
Seeking vengeance, Isabel infiltrates the enemy. Her mission? Woo Erik Lothgarson, the general’s steamy, illusion-magic wielding son. Steal the dangerous weapon. She can bring Volgaard to its knees—if she isn’t caught.
But as Isabel dances along the knife edge of deception, the lines between truth and fiction blur, and she must wrestle her quest for vengeance against her undeniable attraction to the enemy.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Illusion of Stars by Sarah Marie Page is a compelling fantasy romance that intertwines espionage, magic, and emotional depth. The story follows Isabel, a royal physician who infiltrates an enemy kingdom to uncover secrets, leading to a complex relationship with Erik, the general's son. Their slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers romance is portrayed with fade-to-black intimacy, ensuring that explicit content is kept off-page. The narrative delves into themes of grief, self-discovery, and moral ambiguity, offering readers a rich and thought-provoking experience. While the book is suitable for mature teens and adults, parents should be aware of certain content elements. The story includes moderate fantasy violence and addresses sensitive topics such as self-harm ideation, parental abandonment, and infidelity . Language is generally mild, and the romantic elements are handled with discretion. Given these factors, Illusion of Stars is recommended for older teen readers and up, particularly those who appreciate intricate world-building and emotionally resonant storytelling.
(violence, mild romance, and political intrigue)
AUTHOR CATHERINE JONES PAYNE
BREAKWATER (BOOK 1)
A red tide is rising.
Seventeen-year-old Jade is recently engaged to a handsome soldier and about to choose her own career. But she didn't expect to witness a murder.
When her fiancé kills a naiad, plunging the underwater city of Thessalonike into uproar, tensions surge between the mer and the naiads. Jade learns too late that the choices she makes ripple further than she'd ever imagined. And as she fights against the tide of anger in a city that lives for scandal, she discovers danger lurking in every canal, imperiling her family and shattering the ocean's fragile peace.
Can the city's divisions be mended before the upwelling of hate rips apart everything Jade loves?
Breakwater is the first novel in a spine-tingling series of YA mermaid fantasy books. If you like enigmatic mystery, stirring romance, and harrowing intrigue, you'll love Catherine Jones Payne's riveting underwater world.
Plunge into a page-turning adventure perfect for fans of Carrie Anne Noble, Leigh Bardugo, Jennifer Donnelly, and Kiera Cass.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Catherine Jones Payne’s Breakwater is a great choice for readers who love underwater fantasy, political intrigue, and stories about courage and justice. Set in an underwater mer-city, the book follows a young mermaid named Jade who uncovers corruption and fights to protect her people after a tragic loss. The setting is vivid and imaginative, the plot moves quickly, and the story tackles big themes like standing up for what's right, loyalty, and navigating personal loss. Readers who enjoy character-driven stories mixed with action, mystery, and a hint of romance will likely find Breakwater both exciting and thought-provoking. Content-wise, Breakwater is clean in terms of sexual content, with only light romantic elements such as feelings of attraction and a few sweet, innocent moments between characters. There is some fantasy violence, including fights and political unrest, but it’s handled carefully without graphic detail. The emotional weight of grief and injustice is present, but it’s portrayed in a way that encourages resilience and hope. Overall, Breakwater offers a safe and meaningful read for families looking for adventurous fantasy that still feels appropriate for a younger teen audience.
(dark themes, violence, some profanity, and references to substance use)
AUTHOR KATE PEARSALL
BITTERSWEET IN THE HOLLOW
In this beautifully dark and enthralling YA, four sisters with unusual talents investigate a mysterious disappearance in their secluded Appalachian town. For fans of House of Hollow and Wilder Girls!
In rural Caball Hollow, surrounded by the vast National Forest, the James women serve up more than fried green tomatoes at the Harvest Moon diner, where the family recipes are not the only secrets.
Like her sisters, Linden was born with an unusual ability. She can taste what others are feeling, but this so-called gift soured her relationship with the vexingly attractive Cole Spencer one fateful night a year ago . . . A night when Linden vanished into the depths of the Forest and returned with no memories of what happened, just a litany of questions—and a haze of nightmares that suggest there’s more to her story than simply getting lost.
Now, during the hottest summer on record,another girl in town is gone, and the similarities to last year’s events are striking. Except, this time the missing girl doesn’t make it home, and when her body is discovered, the scene unmistakably spells murder.
As tempers boil over, Linden enlists the help of her sisters to find what’s hiding in the forest . . . before it finds her. But as she starts digging for truth—about the Moth-Winged Man rumored to haunt the Hollow, about her bitter rift with Cole, and even about her family—she must question if some secrets are best left buried.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Kate Pearsall’s Bittersweet in the Hollow is a haunting and beautifully written novel perfect for readers who enjoy atmospheric stories filled with mystery, family secrets, and a touch of magic. Set in an eerie Appalachian town, the story follows Linden, a girl with a supernatural gift, as she searches for answers about a missing girl and confronts her own family's tangled past. The writing captures a rich sense of place, blending folklore with a slow-burning mystery that keeps readers hooked. It’s a great choice for those who love stories about sisterhood, hidden truths, and finding strength in unexpected places. In terms of content, Bittersweet in the Hollow contains a mild romantic subplot with some kissing but no explicit sexual content. There are a few dark and suspenseful moments, including discussions of missing persons and danger, but violence is suggested rather than graphically described. The tone leans a little darker than typical light fantasy, but it remains thoughtful and age-appropriate for readers who are ready for slightly heavier emotional themes. Overall, it’s an engaging and heartfelt story that balances mystery and magic while staying mindful of a younger teen audience.
(It's a clean young adult romance that is fun for all ages.)
AUTHOR EVA POHLER
THANATOS: THE UNDERWORLD SAGA (BOOK 1)
Fifteen-year-old Therese watches her parents die. While in a coma, she meets the twin sons of Hades—Hypnos (the god of sleep) and Thanatos (the god of death). She thinks she's manipulating a dream, not kissing the god of death and totally rocking his world.
Than makes a deal with Hades and goes as a mortal to the Upperworld to try and win Therese's heart, but not all the gods are happy. Some give her gifts. Others try to kill her.
The deal requires Therese to avenge the death of her parents. With the help of Than’s fierce and exotic sisters, the Furies, she finds herself in an arena face to face with the murderer, and only one will survive.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Eva Pohler’s Thanatos: The Underworld Saga is an engaging choice for readers who enjoy stories based on Greek mythology with modern twists and elements of adventure. The story follows Hadley, a girl who finds herself trapped in the Underworld and must navigate the complex realm of gods and monsters to escape. With plenty of action, suspense, and mystery, this series offers a fast-paced plot that mixes mythology with thrilling fantasy. It’s an excellent pick for readers who love stories of courage, loyalty, and personal growth set against a richly detailed mythical backdrop. In terms of content, Thanatos: The Underworld Saga does not delve deeply into explicit sexual content. The romance is mild, with some kissing and emotional attraction between characters, but it is never explicit or overwhelming. There is some violence as Hadley faces off with supernatural forces in the Underworld, but the violence is mostly fantasy-based and not excessively graphic. Themes like death, loss, and the afterlife are explored, but in a way that’s thoughtful and appropriate for younger readers. Overall, this series is an exciting and safe choice for families seeking a mix of mythology, adventure, and a bit of romance without crossing into mature content.
(Some sexual insinuation, but nothing detailed, and some swearing.)
AUTHOR ELIZA RAINE
SKIES OF OLYMPUS
A fierce temper and a burning desire for revenge have always been Lyssa’s greatest assets, until the Gods of Olympus and an arrogant man with a secret turn her world upside down.
Lyssa keeps the fact that she’s the daughter of the strongest man in the world to herself. After all, everyone thinks Hercules is a hero. She can still remember her family’s screams the night he slaughtered them all.
When the Gods offer Lyssa a chance to compete for the ultimate prize - immortality - she isn’t interested. Until she discovers that her father is competing. Now she has to face the monster from her past and stop him from becoming truly untouchable. But she won’t be doing it alone.
Phyleus, a mysterious man with enough gold to tempt Midas, has bought his way into the competition and Lyssa’s life. She hates him immediately - he represents everything she hates about Olympus. There’s more to him than meets the eye though, and Lyssa can’t shake the feeling that he's hiding a past as dark as her own.
Forced to work with Phyleus through twelve deadly trials, everything Lyssa thought she knew about herself will be tested.
Only one thing stays the same...Hercules must die.
Skies of Olympus is a full length novel, containing the first three Trials of the Immortality Trials, which is a COMPLETE series!
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Eliza Raine’s Skies of Olympus is an excellent choice for readers who enjoy modern fantasy with a blend of Greek mythology and adventurous storytelling. The story follows Lark, a young girl with a mysterious connection to the gods, as she navigates a world filled with ancient powers, unexpected alliances, and thrilling challenges. With a plot full of twists, magic, and high-stakes drama, this book offers a fast-paced and engaging experience for readers who love a touch of mythology in their fantasy tales. The strong, determined protagonist and her journey of self-discovery make it especially appealing to readers who enjoy stories of empowerment and resilience. In terms of content, Skies of Olympus keeps things relatively tame in terms of romance and sexual content. The romance is subtle and focused on the emotional connection between characters, with only mild moments of attraction or kissing. There’s no explicit sexual content. The book contains some action and fantasy violence as the characters confront mythical creatures and gods, but it's not overly graphic. Overall, the series provides an exciting adventure with just the right amount of tension and romance for a younger teen audience, making it an excellent choice for families looking for an action-packed but family-friendly read.
(mild violence, kissing)
AUTHOR JANETTE RALLISON
SON OF WAR DAUGHTER OF CHAOS
Aislynn is accustomed to watching for the enemy. Her parents have instructed her from the time she was young to look for people with the signs: greater than normal strength, eyes that sometimes glow green, and the ability to jump long distances. Over the years, Aislynn has come to view her parents' fears as quirks and unfounded paranoia. They think life is like a horror novel with dangerous things lurking in shadows. But Aislynn just wants a normal high school life--maybe even one with a little romance.
When Aislynn's mother dies under suspicious conditions, her father doubles his restrictions. But all his precautions can't stop the boy with glowing green eyes from finding Aislynn. She realizes too late she's been drafted into an ancient Egyptian war, one where Horus and Set still struggle for control and people aren't who or what they seem to be. Danger will find her, whether she's prepared or not.
This urban fantasy takes you around the world: from Arizona to Oxford, England, with stops on the snowy peaks of the Arctic and the ancient ruins of Egypt.
Son of War, Daughter of Chaos is a teen paranormal romance so chock-full of action and suspense, young adults will have to fight their parents to read it!
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Janette Rallison’s Son of War, Daughter of Chaos is a compelling choice for readers who enjoy fast-paced fantasy with a blend of mythology, romance, and adventure. The story follows Aislynn, a teenage girl who discovers that her father’s warnings about superhuman enemies were not just paranoia. As she unravels the truth about her heritage, she finds herself caught in an ancient Egyptian conflict between two powerful factions. The novel offers a thrilling mix of action, mystery, and a slow-burn romance, making it a captivating read for fans of urban fantasy and mythology. In terms of content, Son of War, Daughter of Chaos is suitable for younger readers, featuring mild violence and a clean romance. The action scenes include fantasy-based confrontations and perilous situations, but they are not graphic. The romantic elements are sweet and include some kissing, but there is no explicit sexual content. The novel maintains a focus on adventure and character development, making it an engaging and family-friendly choice for readers interested in a mythological fantasy with minimal mature content.
(contains mild romantic elements, fantasy violence, and minimal swearing, with no explicit sexual content)
AUTHOR MORGAN RICE
SWORD OF THE DEAD (BOOK 1)
A red tide is rising.
When Meredith, the king’s 18 year old daughter, is snatched by a monster and taken miles down to an underground kingdom, Lance, a peasant boy who dreams of joining the King’s elite knights, vows to risk his life to save her. Lance embarks on an epic quest to prove himself before the king’s men, to find the secret passage to the underground, to brave intense trials, to battle hideous monsters, and to get her back.
Meanwhile, up above, with the king distracted and betrayed, a once-impregnable kingdom is crumbling, as enemies on all sides close in. Only a hardened girl thief, an unlikely hero, stands a chance of saving it all….
From #1 bestseller Morgan Rice comes the debut of a breathtaking new fantasy series, ideal for fans of Sarah J Maas, Brandon Sanderson and Jennifer L Armentrout.From USA Today and #1 bestseller Morgan Rice, author of A Quest of Heroes (over 5,000 five star ratings) comes the long-awaited debut of a major new epic fantasy series.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Sword of the Dead by Morgan Rice is a young adult fantasy novel that reimagines the Persephone myth, featuring themes of heroism, destiny, and sacrifice. The story follows Lance, a peasant boy aspiring to become a knight, as he embarks on a perilous quest to rescue Princess Meredith from an underground kingdom. The narrative includes mild romantic elements, fantasy violence involving battles with monsters, and minimal swearing, with no explicit sexual content, making it suitable for readers comfortable with PG-13-level material. Families seeking an engaging fantasy adventure will find Sword of the Dead appropriate for readers who can handle moderate action and suspense. The book's emphasis on bravery, loyalty, and personal growth provides positive themes without delving into graphic content. However, those looking for a more lighthearted or less intense narrative may find the story's darker elements and high-stakes conflicts more suitable for mature readers. Overall, Sword of the Dead offers a compelling tale that balances excitement with age-appropriate content.
(mild romance, supernatural elements, and some emotional intensity)
AUTHOR FRANCESCA RILEY
FIND ME
An ocean and a curse stand between them, and in fairy tales, there is always a cruel price to pay. What will it cost her to cross the distance?
Seventeen-year-old Skye Sebastian knows that love hurts; her broken father is a constant reminder. And she doesn't believe in happy ever after. But when she returns to the seaside village where her mother drowned, she meets Hunter, a mysterious, compelling swimmer who never seems to leave the water. Beautiful and mesmerizing, he is like no one she has ever known.
But Hunter is cursed. And Skye shouldn't be able to see him at all.
Does Hunter hide the answer to her mother’s death? And what IS he, really? Skye will risk everything to find out, but the truth might cost her more than she bargained for. As she uncovers his secrets and learns of his cursed clan, the danger grows. It might already be too late for her. Because once you're in too deep, there is no going back.
Inspired by The Little Mermaid, this addictive, mythical love story will leave you breathless.
Fans of Erin A Craig, A L Knorr, Amanda Hocking and Stephenie Meyer will love the Immersed series
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Francesca Riley’s Find Me is a compelling choice for readers who enjoy contemporary fantasy with elements of mystery and romance. The story follows Skye, who discovers she has unique abilities, leading her into a world of hidden truths and unexpected challenges. With its blend of supernatural intrigue and personal growth, the book offers an engaging narrative that can captivate readers interested in stories about self-discovery and the complexities of hidden worlds. In terms of content, Find Me maintains a focus on adventure and character development, with minimal mature themes. The romantic elements are present but not explicit, involving mild attraction and emotional connections rather than physical intimacy. There is some fantasy violence as the protagonist faces various challenges, but it is not graphic or overly intense. Overall, Find Me is a suitable choice for readers seeking an engaging fantasy story that remains accessible and appropriate for a younger audience.
(mild romance, supernatural themes, grief, and occasional strong language)
AUTHOR KELLY RISSER
NEVER FORGOTTEN
Meara Quinn is about to find out there are worse things than moving to a tiny oceanside town before her senior year. Like discovering there’s a secret being kept from her and knowing it’s a life-changer.
After experiencing vivid visions of her absentee father, Meara decides she deserves answers. With the help of her new friend Evan, a guy she happens to be falling for, she embarks on a journey in the hopes of unlocking family history and finding her true self. But when she meets a handsome stranger at a local club who knows far more about her than he should, her world is again shaken. In him, Meara may have uncovered the key to the very secret that will reveal not only who she is… but what she is.
The Never Forgotten series starts as a light paranormal romance with an Irish/Scottish folklore twist and grows into an underwater urban fantasy where love, loyalty and friendship face the ultimate test. The Never Forgotten trilogy is complete and available to read today.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Kelly Risser’s Never Forgotten is a compelling choice for readers who enjoy contemporary fantasy with elements of romance and self-discovery. The story follows a young protagonist who uncovers hidden truths about her heritage and abilities, leading her into a world of unexpected challenges and growth. With its engaging narrative and relatable characters, the book offers an immersive experience for readers interested in stories about identity, family, and the discovery of one's place in the world. In terms of content, Never Forgotten maintains a focus on adventure and character development, with minimal mature themes. The romantic elements are present but not explicit, involving mild attraction and emotional connections rather than physical intimacy. There is some fantasy violence as the protagonist faces various challenges, but it is not graphic or overly intense. Overall, Never Forgotten is a suitable choice for readers seeking an engaging fantasy story that remains accessible and appropriate for a younger audience.
(fantasy violence, Greek mythology, and mild language)
Editor's
Favorite
AUTHOR RICK RIORDAN
PERCY JACKSON AND THE OLYMPIANS: THE LIGHTNING THIEF (BOOK 1)
Percy Jackson is about to be kicked out of boarding school again—he can't seem to stay out of trouble. Is he supposed to stand by while a bully picks on his scrawny best friend? Or not defend himself when his teacher turns into a monster and tries to kill him?
Mythical creatures seem to be walking straight out of the pages of Percy's Greek mythology textbook and into his life. What’s worse, he's angered a few of them: Zeus's master lightning bolt has been stolen, and Percy is the prime suspect.
Percy and his friends Grover the satyr, and Annabeth, the demigod daughter of Athena, must find and return Zeus's stolen property and bring peace to a warring Mount Olympus. They travel cross country to the gates of the Underworld in Los Angeles, facing a host of enemies determined to stop them.
With millions of copies and over 10 years spent on the New York Times bestseller list, Percy has also become a movie, a Broadway musical, and now a Disney+ series. He continues to find fans in classrooms and libraries across the world.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief is a fantastic choice for readers who enjoy action-packed fantasy with a healthy dose of humor and mythology. The story follows Percy Jackson, a twelve-year-old boy who discovers he is the son of Poseidon and embarks on a thrilling adventure to prevent a war among the gods. This book is filled with relatable characters, a fast-paced plot, and clever references to Greek mythology, making it an entertaining read for both young and older readers. The themes of friendship, bravery, and self-discovery are strong throughout the series, making it a great choice for family reading or discussion. In terms of content, The Lightning Thief is mostly free of mature themes. There is mild swearing, but it is not excessive or offensive. The book does include some fantasy violence, as Percy and his friends face numerous challenges, but the violence is not graphic or overly intense. The romantic elements are very mild, with some light crushes and flirtation, but there is no explicit sexual content. Overall, The Lightning Thief is a family-friendly book that strikes a good balance between action, humor, and important life lessons, making it appropriate for younger readers.
(fantasy violence, LGBTQ+ themes, and Greek mythology)
AUTHOR RICK RIORDAN
THE TRIALS OF APOLLO (BOOK 1 IN THE HIDDEN ORACLE SERIES)
How do you punish an immortal? By making him human. After angering his father Zeus, the god Apollo is cast down from Olympus. Weak and disoriented, he lands in New York City as a regular teenage boy. Now, without his godly powers, the four-thousand-year-old deity must learn to survive in the modern world until he can somehow find a way to regain Zeus's favor. But Apollo has many enemies—gods, monsters, and mortals who would love to see the former Olympian permanently destroyed. Apollo needs help, and he can think of only one place to go . . . an enclave of modern demigods known as Camp Half-Blood.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Rick Riordan’s The Trials of Apollo series is a great choice for readers who love mythology, humor, and adventurous quests. The series follows Apollo, once a powerful Greek god, who is cast down to Earth as a mortal teenager. Throughout the books, Apollo must navigate various trials and challenges while learning valuable lessons about humility, friendship, and bravery. The series is full of clever references to both Greek and Roman mythology, making it a fun and educational read for younger audiences. The humor and fast-paced action also make it a captivating choice for reluctant readers, especially those who have already enjoyed Riordan’s other works like Percy Jackson. In terms of content, The Trials of Apollo remains relatively family-friendly. There are mild references to romance, but these are limited to crushes, flirting, and some kissing, with no explicit sexual content. The series does include some fantasy violence, as characters face mythical monsters and engage in battles, but the violence is not graphic or overly disturbing. There is some mild swearing, but it is not frequent or offensive. Overall, The Trials of Apollo is an entertaining and lighthearted series that is appropriate for younger readers, with valuable lessons about growing up, friendship, and accepting responsibility.
(includes mild violence, some perilous situations, minimal romance, and no sexual content or strong language)
AUTHOR RICK RIORDAN
THE RED PYRAMID (BOOK 1)
Since their mother's death, Carter and Sadie have become near strangers. While Sadie has lived with her grandparents in London, her brother has traveled the world with their father, the brilliant Egyptologist, Dr. Julius Kane. One night, Dr. Kane brings the siblings together for a "research experiment" at the British Museum, where he hopes to set things right for his family. Instead, he unleashes the Egyptian god Set, who banishes him to oblivion and forces the children to flee for their lives.
From the creator of the hit Percy Jackson series.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Rick Riordan’s The Red Pyramid is an excellent choice for readers who enjoy fast-paced adventures infused with mythology and humor. The story follows siblings Carter and Sadie Kane as they discover their connection to ancient Egyptian gods and embark on a mission to prevent the chaos god Set from taking over the world. Riordan’s signature style of blending mythology with modern-day settings makes the book both educational and entertaining, particularly for readers interested in Egyptian mythology. The sibling dynamic between Carter and Sadie adds heart to the story, and their growth throughout the series provides valuable lessons on family, teamwork, and personal responsibility. In terms of content, The Red Pyramid is suitable for younger readers, with minimal mature themes. The book contains some action-packed violence, such as magical battles and encounters with monsters, but it is not graphic or overly intense. There are no explicit romantic elements, though there are some minor crushes and mild flirtation between characters. Mild swearing is present but not excessive or offensive. Overall, The Red Pyramid is a fun and family-friendly read, with the right balance of adventure, humor, and lighthearted mythological exploration, making it an excellent choice for younger readers.
(includes moderate violence, instances of sexual assault, and themes of antisemitism and religious bigotry)
AUTHOR RENA ROSSNER
THE SISTERS OF THE WINTER WOODS (BOOK 1)
"With luscious and hypnotic prose, Rena Rossner tells a gripping, powerful story of family, sisterhood, and two young women trying to find their way in the world." — Madeline Miller, bestselling author of Circe
In a remote village surrounded by vast forests on the border of Moldova and Ukraine, sisters Liba and Laya have been raised on the honeyed scent of their Mami's babka and the low rumble of their Tati's prayers. But when a troupe of mysterious men arrives, Laya falls under their spell -- despite their mother's warning to be wary of strangers. And this is not the only danger lurking in the woods.
As dark forces close in on their village, Liba and Laya discover a family secret passed down through generations. Faced with a magical heritage they never knew existed, the sisters realize the old fairy tales are true. . .and could save them all.
Discover a magical tale of secrets, heritage, and fairy tales weaving through history that will enchant readers of The Bear and the Nightingale, Uprooted and The Golem and the Jinni.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Sisters of the Winter Wood by Rena Rossner is a thoughtful, beautifully written historical fantasy that can be a wonderful choice for families interested in literature rooted in culture, folklore, and sisterhood. Set in a Jewish village on the border of Ukraine and Moldova, the story follows two sisters with magical shape-shifting abilities as they navigate growing up, love, fear, and identity in a world shadowed by real historical dangers. Rossner weaves poetry and prose together, alternating between the voices of the two sisters, which adds a lyrical quality that enhances the storytelling. For families looking for books that explore Jewish heritage, myth, and the power of family, this novel offers depth and meaning alongside its fantasy elements. That said, the book does explore some heavy themes, including antisemitism, threats of violence, and a brief but impactful instance of sexual assault (non-graphic). The romance in the story is gentle and sweet, without explicit sexual content, though there is emotional intensity and the tension of first love. There is little to no swearing, but the emotional weight of prejudice and historical references to pogroms may make it more appropriate for older teens and adults. Families sensitive to these issues should approach the book with awareness, but for many, it can be a deeply rewarding read that encourages empathy, cultural understanding, and resilience.
(dark magic, violence, and mild romance)
AUTHOR STACEY ROURKE
RISE OF THE SEA WITCH
Details of the sea witch’s banishment have been exaggerated. The body count that preempted it was not. Once an illustrious princess, her hands and tentacles were stained with the blood of thousands. No one could comprehend how the hooks of madness dragged her down from her life of privilege. Born Princess Vanessa of Atlantica, the ambitious young royal was one of two children born to the great King Poseidon. She and her brother, Triton, were groomed from birth to rule. Yet only one would ascend that coveted throne. While carefree Triton flits through his training with a cavalier demeanor and beguiling charm, Vanessa’s hunger for her father’s acceptance drives her to push herself to the limits of magic, and combat to become a leader worthy of her people. When war against the humans ravages their once regal kingdom, political sides are chosen. Factions from the seven seas challenge the existing leadership, pitting Vanessa against her brother in a vicious battle for the crown. Traitors are exposed, dark family secrets revealed, and a once strong sibling bond is strained to its breaking point. Only when the ink black waters from the ultimate betrayal rescind, will the truth be known of how the villainous sea witch rose with one name on her vengeful lips--Triton.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Stacey Rourke’s Rise of the Sea Witch offers a dark, imaginative twist on the classic Little Mermaid tale, told from the perspective of the sea witch, Ursula. This reimagining delves into her backstory, exploring themes of betrayal, ambition, and the complexities of villainy. The novel is rich with world-building and emotional depth, making it an engaging choice for readers who appreciate morally complex characters and alternative viewpoints on familiar stories. Its mature themes and intricate plot may appeal to older teens and adults who enjoy dark fantasy and character-driven narratives. In terms of content, Rise of the Sea Witch contains mature themes, including betrayal, manipulation, and moral ambiguity, which are integral to the story's exploration of Ursula's character. While the novel does not focus heavily on romance, there are elements of attraction and relationships that are portrayed with emotional intensity. The book includes some violence and darker elements, consistent with its exploration of villainous themes, but it is not excessively graphic. Given its mature content, this book is best suited for older teens and adults rather than younger readers or families seeking lighthearted fare.