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Mythology

MYTH

Authors S - Z

At a Glance

AUTHOR INGRID SEYMOUR   BLAZING MAGIC
rated PG

(dark magic, violence, and mild romance)

 

AUTHOR INGRID SEYMOUR
 
BLAZING MAGIC (BOOK 1)

 

When Marielle was little, she used to believe Grandpa about his wish-granting Djinn. But now that she’s older, her beliefs have changed, and things like lousy ex-boyfriends and alcoholic fathers have become her reality.

Life isn’t done shattering her truths, though, and when Grandpa dies and the Djinn he warned her never to trust shows up at her doorstep, the world becomes a dangerous, magical place she never knew existed. Reeling for her once-normal life, Marielle soon realizes there’s no going back—not when she’s become part of a mortal conflict between two spell-bound Djinn. Faris—her handsome slave. And Zet—his vengeance-hungry brother. They both want something from her. One, her love. The other one, her life.

Now she’s afraid she will die in love.

 

One Wish Away is a young adult paranormal romance that will appeal to lovers of Hush Hush, Twilight, and the Fallen series.

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

​Ingrid Seymour’s Blazing Magic is an engaging choice for readers who enjoy urban fantasy with elements of magic, mystery, and romance. The story follows a young protagonist who discovers her latent magical abilities and is thrust into a world of supernatural intrigue and danger. With its fast-paced plot and relatable characters, the book offers an immersive experience for readers interested in stories about self-discovery and navigating the complexities of a hidden magical world.​ In terms of content, Blazing Magic 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, Blazing Magic is a suitable choice for readers seeking an engaging fantasy story that remains accessible and appropriate for a younger audience.

AUTHOR J. R. SHAPLAND ​ THE IMMORTAL WORDS
rated PG

(mild profanity, a single implied sexual encounter [with kissing and off‑page intimacy], and fantasy violence)

 

AUTHOR J. R. SHAPLAND
THE IMMORTAL WORDS (BOOK 1)

 

“If you crave fantasy that delivers layered characters, interwoven plot lines, rich lore, and the kind of magic that lingers long after the final page, this is the book for you. Every detail is purposeful, every revelation satisfying.”

 

In Gisani wakes in a meadow outside the kingdom of Aeya with this single memory that feels more like a dream.

Years later, when the king and his new general declare war on their unsuspecting neighbors, Fen is unwittingly thrust on a quest to save a kingdom—thanks to the enigmatic thief, Aleesa Auriko.

 

Each day with Aleesa, the shadow cloaking his memories fades a little more.

Despite the desperation to learn more of his past, Fen begins to wonder if some things are better left forgotten.

 

When they discover a remnant of the Gods that disputes everything they were taught, Fen and Aleesa race against time, shadows, and the Gods themselves to uncover the buried truth before the horrors of his past catch up with them.

 

But as the threads unravel, an even darker entity begins to stir.

 

The words must not be spoken.


The Immortal Words is the first of four installments in the spell-binding Age of Gods series—a can’t-miss, epic page-turner for fans of Brandon Sanderson and Robert Jordan.

Keep an eye out for the first Age of Gods novella, The Shadow of Stars—out this fall!

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

The Immortal Words by J.R. Shapland could be a good fit for families who appreciate clean, high-stakes fantasy that blends adventure with a hint of romance. The story revolves around magic, prophecy, and a battle against dark forces, making it appealing to readers who enjoy classic fantasy tropes with modern pacing. While there is a romantic subplot, it’s very mild—limited to kissing and a single implied intimate moment that occurs off-page, handled with discretion. Violence is present but within the bounds of typical fantasy action, such as battles, magical combat, and life-or-death situations, without graphic gore. Swearing is minimal and mostly mild, such as words like “damn.” However, it may not be the best choice for families who are highly sensitive to any romantic or suggestive content, even when implied rather than shown. The intensity of the conflict, including moments of suspense and peril, might also be a bit much for younger or more sensitive readers. Those seeking lighthearted fantasy or whimsical adventures might find this series too serious in tone. Still, for teens and adults looking for an exciting, mostly clean fantasy with mature themes and character-driven storytelling, The Immortal Words strikes a thoughtful balance between action, emotion, and imagination.

AUTHOR DERRICK SMYTHE ​  THE OTHER MAGIC
rated PG13

(no swearing, some brutal violence, implied consensual romance with passionate moments, but no explicit sexual content)

AUTHOR DERRICK SMYTHE

THE OTHER MAGIC (BOOK 1)

 

Winner - Pinnacle Book Achievement Award.
Winner - Global Book Award.
Runner-up - Global Ebook Award.
Runner-up - Independent Publisher Book Award.


The men secured the shackles slowly, hesitantly, but Kibure did not resist; he couldn’t. Whatever otherworldly power had come over him in those moments of passion had fled his body the second he realized what he had done…

In a realm where only clerics are permitted to practice magic, Kibure’s inexplicable use of power places him in grave danger. In a twist of fate, the rogue priestess hired to strip him of his power chooses instead to help him escape. Her reasons for doing so are her own, but something worse than death awaits if they are unable to evade the Empire's most potent wielders.

This epic fantasy series will be especially enjoyed by fans of Brandon Sanderson, Robert Jordan, Michael J. Sullivan, Edward W. Robertson, Patrick Rothfuss, and Michael Wisehart.

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

The Other Magic by Derrick Smythe is a rich, character-driven epic fantasy that could be a great choice for families and readers who enjoy immersive world-building, moral complexity, and coming-of-age stories. The book contains no swearing and only mild romantic elements, with implied attraction and a few passionate but non-explicit moments, making it a suitable option for readers who prefer clean or less sexually graphic storytelling. The themes of magic, rebellion, and self-discovery are handled with maturity and depth, and the protagonist’s journey from oppressed orphan to emerging power provides thoughtful material for discussion about justice, courage, and identity. On the other hand, the story does include scenes of intense violence—such as slave whipping, brutal hand-to-hand combat, and battlefield peril—which may be unsettling for more sensitive readers. While it’s not gratuitously graphic, the violence is realistic and carries emotional weight, as it’s tied to the oppressive world the characters inhabit. Additionally, the political and philosophical themes may be dense for casual or younger readers, and the pacing leans toward the deliberate and introspective. For families seeking light fantasy or fast-paced action, this may not be the best fit—but for mature readers ready for depth and grit without graphic content, it’s a strong contender.

AUTHOR MAGGIE STIEFVATER    THE SCORPIO RACES
rated PG13

(violence, death, and mild romance)

AUTHOR MAGGIE STIEFVATER

 

THE SCORPIO RACES

 

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Shiver and Linger comes a brand new, heartstopping novel.

 

Some race to win. Others race to survive. It happens at the start of every November: the Scorpio Races. Riders attempt to keep hold of their water horses long enough to make it to the finish line. Some riders live. Others die. At age nineteen, Sean Kendrick is the returning champion. He is a young man of few words, and if he has any fears, he keeps them buried deep, where no one else can see them. Puck Connolly is different. She never meant to ride in the Scorpio Races. But fate hasn't given her much of a choice. So she enters the competition - the first girl ever to do so. She is in no way prepared for what is going to happen. As she did in her bestselling Shiver trilogy, author Maggie Stiefvater takes us to the breaking point, where both love and life meet their greatest obstacles, and only the strong of heart can survive. The Scorpio Races is an unforgettable reading experience.

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

Maggie Stiefvater’s The Scorpio Races is a beautifully written, atmospheric novel set in a world where magical, dangerous water horses are ridden in a yearly race. The story focuses on two protagonists, Sean and Puck, who come from very different backgrounds but are united by their shared desire to win the race. The book explores themes of courage, perseverance, and personal sacrifice, making it an excellent choice for readers who enjoy character-driven stories with a strong sense of place. The rich, lyrical prose creates a vivid world that draws readers into the traditions and challenges of this mystical island, making it a compelling read for fans of magical realism and fantasy. While The Scorpio Races has no explicit sexual content, it does touch on more mature themes, including death, survival, and the complexities of human relationships. There is a romantic subplot, but it is subtle and doesn't dominate the story. The focus is more on the bond between the characters and their struggles with the dangers of the race and their personal challenges. The book does include some violence, particularly relating to the races and the wild nature of the water horses, but it is not excessively graphic. Overall, this book would be a good choice for readers who enjoy thoughtful, nuanced stories that balance magic with human emotion and personal growth, making it suitable for older teens and young adults.

AUTHORS LEIA STONE & S.T. BENDE    PROTECTOR
rated PG13

(violence, death, and mild romance)

AUTHORS LEIA STONE & S.T. BENDE

 

PROTECTOR (BOOK 1)

 

Love. Honor. Protect.

As an Environmental Studies major, Allie knows the planet is in trouble—a series of natural disasters recently rocked the northern hemisphere, and species across the globe are going extinct. What Allie doesn’t know is that her world’s decline is a result of an ancient battle called the Night War—the Norse goddess Nott’s crusade to control the weakest of the light realms. And Allie most definitely doesn’t know that her existence is the only thing stopping Nott from dragging the earth into total darkness.

When four gorgeous guys show up claiming to be Allie’s Asgardian protectors, she thinks they’re delusional. And when they order her to hunt down the pieces of an immortal weapon, she’s convinced they’re insane. But when Allie’s attacked, the guys’ crazy stories of demigods and dark elves begin coming together. And Allie’s not sure what scares her more—losing her life to the Goddess of Night . . . or losing her heart to one of her protectors.

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

Protector by Leia Stone and S.T. Bende is an engaging choice for readers who enjoy urban fantasy with elements of mythology, romance, and action. The story follows a young protagonist who discovers her connection to ancient beings and becomes entangled in a world of supernatural intrigue. The book offers an exciting mix of adventure, magic, and personal growth, making it appealing to readers who appreciate fast-paced narratives and strong character development. In terms of content, Protector includes romantic elements that are more mature than typical young adult fare. The romantic relationships are central to the plot and involve passionate interactions, including some explicit scenes. While the book does not contain graphic sexual content, the romantic elements are more detailed than in many YA novels. Additionally, the story includes some violence and intense situations, consistent with its supernatural themes. Given these elements, Protector may be more suitable for older teens and adults rather than younger readers or families seeking lighthearted fare.

Knightmare Arcanist.jpg
rated PG

(mild romance, light intimacy, fantasy violence, and some swearing)

AUTHOR SHAM STOVALL
 
KNIGHTMARE ARCANIST (BOOK 1)

 

Magic. Sailing. A murderer among heroes.

Gravedigger Volke Savan wants nothing more than to be like his hero, the legendary magical swashbuckler, Gregory Ruma. First, Volke needs to become an arcanist, someone capable of wielding magic, which requires bonding with a mythical creature. And he’ll take anything—a pegasus, a griffin, a ravenous hydra—maybe even a leviathan, like Ruma.

So when Volke stumbles across a knightmare, a creature made of shadow and terror, he has no reservations. But the resulting bond leads Volke down a path he never expected. One where he might have to fight against his hero to save everything he loves.

A fast-paced fantasy with magical creatures for those who enjoy the Furies of Calderon (Codex Alera series) by Jim Butcher, Unsouled (Cradle Series) by Will Wight, and Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan.

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

Knightmare Arcanist by Shami Stovall is a young adult fantasy novel that follows Volke Savan, a 16-year-old gravedigger's apprentice who dreams of becoming an arcanist—a magic-wielder bonded to a mythical creature. The story is set in a world filled with magic, mythical creatures, and a mysterious plague. Volke's journey is one of self-discovery, courage, and perseverance as he strives to prove himself and protect those he cares about. The novel is noted for its engaging characters, intricate world-building, and a unique magic system that blends elements of adventure and fantasy. While the book is generally suitable for young adult readers, parents should be aware of certain content that may be of concern. The story includes themes of violence, such as battles with magical creatures and instances of bullying and discrimination. There are also references to death and gore, which are integral to the plot but may be unsettling for sensitive readers. Additionally, the book contains mild profanity and some dark themes, including a magical plague that affects both humans and creatures. These elements contribute to the novel's mature tone, and parents should consider these aspects when determining if the book is appropriate for their child.

AUTHOR ELLE STRAUSS    SEAWEED
rated PG

(mild romance, supernatural elements, and some emotional intensity)

AUTHOR ELLE STRAUSS

 

SEAWEED

 

A teen swim athlete discovers a merfolk world that threatens to keep her out of the ocean forever.

Dori Seward can't wait to get out of Eastcove, a sleepy fishing village on the border of New Brunswick and Maine. She bides her time by hanging out with friends, attending swim club, and holding her biggest competition, Colby-who wants more than just friendship, at arm's length.

Then Tor Riley comes to town and he has everything Dori dreams of in a boyfriend-looks, athleticism and mystery.

But Tor also has a tantalizing secret and Dori is determined to find out what it is. The truth is crazier than her wildest imaginations and more dangerous, too.

Dori has new fantastical enemies , and they will do anything to get to her.

Her life, her dreams and her love for Tor are all weighing in the balance. Will Dori risk it all in order to have it all?

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

A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab can be a great choice for readers who love richly imagined worlds, high-stakes magical conflicts, and complex characters. Set in a universe with parallel Londons—each with varying degrees of magic—the story follows Kell, a powerful magician, and Lila, a fierce and unpredictable thief, as they navigate political intrigue, dark magic, and personal transformation. The book shines with its elegant prose, clever worldbuilding, and action-driven plot, all while exploring themes of identity, power, and freedom. For families, this series offers plenty of exciting adventure with minimal content concerns, making it an engaging read for mature teens and adults alike. In terms of potentially objectionable content, A Darker Shade of Magic contains moderate violence, including magical battles and some intense moments that might be a bit dark for younger readers. There’s also some swearing, but it’s used sparingly and in context. Romance exists in the background but remains mild and clean—there’s no explicit sexual content or graphic scenes. For families who prefer stories with depth and excitement but without overtly mature or explicit material, this book strikes a solid balance.

AUTHOR LAINI TAYLOR    DAUGHTER OF SMOKE AND BONE
rated PG13

(violent scenes, sensual kissing, and off screen sex)

AUTHOR LAINI TAYLOR

 

DAUGHTER OF SMOKE AND BONE (BOOK 1)

 

Around the world, black handprints are appearing on doorways, scorched there by winged strangers who have crept through a slit in the sky.

In a dark and dusty shop, a devil's supply of human teeth grown dangerously low.

And in the tangled lanes of Prague, a young art student is about to be caught up in a brutal otherwordly war.

Meet Karou. She fills her sketchbooks with monsters that may or may not be real; she's prone to disappearing on mysterious "errands"; she speaks many languages--not all of them human; and her bright blue hair actually grows out of her head that color. Who is she? That is the question that haunts her, and she's about to find out.

When one of the strangers--beautiful, haunted Akiva--fixes his fire-colored eyes on her in an alley in Marrakesh, the result is blood and starlight, secrets unveiled, and a star-crossed love whose roots drink deep of a violent past. But will Karou live to regret learning the truth about herself?

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

Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor is a captivating choice for readers who enjoy rich, imaginative fantasy with lyrical prose and complex characters. The story follows Karou, a blue-haired art student in Prague, who leads a double life as an errand girl for a mysterious creature who deals in teeth. As the narrative unfolds, readers are drawn into a world of angels, demons, and ancient conflicts. Taylor's storytelling weaves together elements of romance, betrayal, and self-discovery, making it an engaging read for those who appreciate intricate world-building and emotional depth. In terms of content, Daughter of Smoke and Bone contains mature themes, including violence and romantic relationships. While the book does not focus heavily on explicit sexual content, there are romantic elements that involve attraction and emotional intimacy. The narrative includes scenes of violence, particularly related to the war between angels and demons, but these are not excessively graphic. The book also explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the consequences of war, which may resonate with older teens and adults. Given its complex themes and mature content, this novel is best suited for readers seeking a thought-provoking and immersive fantasy experience.

AUTHOR JACLYN WEIST    STOLEN LUCK
rated G

contains mild romance, minor violence, and some mild language

AUTHOR JACLYN WEIST

 

STOLEN LUCK (BOOK 1)

 

Sixteen-year-old Megan Crenshaw has everything going for her, until a leprechaun shows up on her doorstep and steals all her luck. If that weren't enough, he follows her around, making sure nothing goes right.

What Louie didn't count on was Megan's friends standing by her. No matter what he throws at her, they're by her side to pick her back up again.

When Megan learns about Louie's ultimate plan for her family, it's a race against time to stop him before he destroys everything she cares about.

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

Jaclyn Weist’s Stolen Luck and its series could be a great choice for families looking for a clean, adventurous read with a touch of magic and light romance. The story follows Megan as she gets swept into a world of leprechauns, curses, and unexpected friendships, offering an exciting plot without crossing into heavy or mature content. The romance is very sweet and innocent, focusing mostly on budding feelings and emotional connection rather than anything physical. There is some mild fantasy violence — like chase scenes and magical battles — but it’s handled in a way that feels appropriate for younger teens and doesn’t veer into anything graphic or disturbing. For families concerned about content, Stolen Luck is refreshingly wholesome. There's no explicit sexual content, only a few brief mentions of attraction, and the language stays clean throughout the story. The fantasy elements are fun and imaginative without getting dark or creepy, making it a comfortable and enjoyable read for a wide range of readers. Overall, this series would be a good pick for anyone wanting a magical adventure that's full of heart without worrying about inappropriate material.

AUTHOR KIERSTEN WHITE    THE CHAOS OF STARS
rated G

(mild kissing, no swearing and some fights)

AUTHOR KIERSTEN WHITE

 

THE CHAOS OF STARS

 

Kiersten White, New York Times bestselling author of Paranormalcy, is back with The Chaos of Stars, an enchanting novel set in Egypt and San Diego that captures the magic of first love and the eternally complicated truth about family. Blending Ally Carter's humor and the romance of Cynthia Hand's Unearthly, The Chaos of Stars takes readers on an unforgettable journey halfway across the world and back, and proves there's no place like home.

 

Isadora's family is seriously screwed up—which comes with the territory when you're the human daughter of the Egyptian gods Isis and Osiris. Isadora is tired of her immortal relatives and their ancient mythological drama, so when she gets the chance to move to California with her brother, she jumps on it. But her new life comes with plenty of its own dramatic—and dangerous—complications . . . and Isadora quickly learns there's no such thing as a clean break from family.

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

Kiersten White’s The Chaos of Stars could be a good choice for families who enjoy mythology-inspired stories with a light, contemporary feel. The book reimagines Egyptian gods living in the modern world and follows a teenage girl, Isadora, as she struggles with her divine family and her own identity. It features mild romance with sweet, slow-building relationships rather than anything explicit or overly intense. There's some discussion of teenage crushes and kissing, but no sexual content or scenes that would likely make readers uncomfortable. The writing is witty and clean, making it accessible to a wide range of readers who appreciate a story grounded in myth but filled with relatable teen experiences. For families looking for a safe, mostly lighthearted read, The Chaos of Stars offers a good balance of fantasy, humor, and emotional depth without heavy violence, language, or mature themes. While there are a few moments of emotional conflict and very mild references to death (due to the Egyptian mythology themes), they are handled gently and thoughtfully. Overall, this novel would be a comfortable fit for readers and families seeking an imaginative, character-driven story with clean content and an uplifting message about finding your place in the world.

AUTHORS ALI WINTERS    THE REAPERS
rated PG

(Occasional use of the word damn - 3 times or less.)

AUTHORS ALI WINTERS

 

THE REAPERS (BOOK 1)

 

The balance of life and death must be protected at all costs.

Nivian had never failed to Reap a marked soul. That is, until she meets Kain Evers, a Hunter and the only being on earth with the power to destroy her.

When Reapers start to go missing, the Balance is thrown into turmoil, forcing Nivian and Kain to trust each other as they search for answers. Which is no easy task as they fight the feelings growing between them.

As mortal enemies, they were never meant to work together, now they're forced to protect each other if they want any hope of righting the Balance before all is lost.

Unfortunately, to succeed, one of them must die.

Intense, gripping and romantic, readers of Maggie Stiefvater and Bella Forrest will love The Reapers. See why readers are calling it “A gripping tale!”

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

The Reapers by Ali Winters could be a great pick for families looking for an engaging fantasy story with a strong supernatural twist but without crossing into overly mature territory. The book offers a dark yet imaginative world involving reapers and the balance between life and death—topics that appeal to readers who enjoy paranormal fiction without the need for graphic content. While there is some romance, it's kept clean and appropriate for teen readers, focusing more on emotional connection than physical intimacy. The action and suspense keep the story moving at a quick pace, making it a solid choice for both reluctant and avid readers. From a content perspective, The Reapers series is reassuring for parents who are cautious about what their teens are exposed to. The romantic elements are mild and sweet, with no explicit sexual scenes. There is some violence, as expected in a story centered around supernatural beings and reapers, but it’s not excessively graphic or disturbing. Swearing is minimal, helping the book stay within comfortable bounds for family reading. Overall, it strikes a good balance between excitement and appropriateness, which can make it a satisfying and safe option for teens and their parents alike.

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