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(paranormal themes, mild violence, romantic tension, and dystopian elements)
AUTHOR K. E. GANSHERT
THE GIFTING (BOOK 1)
"If science is right, then I am crazy. And crazy is dangerous."
In a world where nothing supernatural exists, Tess Eckhart is positive she’s going crazy. After her complete freakout at a high school party, her family is too. So much that they pack their bags and move across the country, next to a nationally-renowned facility for the mentally ill.
Tess is determined to fit in at her new school, despite the whispers and stares. But when it comes to Luka Williams, a reluctantly popular boy in her class, she’s unused to a stare that intense. Then the headaches start, and the seemingly prophetic dreams that haunt her at night. As Tess tries harder to hide them, she becomes increasingly convinced that Luka knows something—that he might somehow be responsible.
But what if she’s wrong? What if Luka Williams is the only thing separating her from a madness too terrifying to fathom?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
K.E. Ganshert’s The Gifting series is a compelling choice for families seeking a clean yet suspenseful young adult dystopian story with a supernatural twist. The narrative follows Tess, a teenager who’s always felt different in a society that claims perfection has been achieved—but her strangeness may be the key to something much bigger. With strong themes of self-discovery, courage, and faith, the story offers plenty of action and intrigue without relying on graphic content. It's a solid fit for readers looking for a thrilling but wholesome adventure with subtle spiritual undertones. From a content standpoint, The Gifting is refreshingly clean. There is no explicit sexual content, and romantic elements are present but kept light and appropriate, focusing more on emotional connection than physical interaction. Violence is part of the story’s dystopian setting, but it's not excessive or graphic. Because of this, the series is a good option for families who want to avoid mature themes while still enjoying a thought-provoking and fast-paced series that touches on identity, purpose, and standing up for what’s right.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Gifting by K. E. Ganshert.
Is The Gifting a clean young adult supernatural romance? The Gifting is a YA dystopian/supernatural thriller with a strong romantic thread, but it stays clean. The story focuses on Tess Eckhart, a girl who fears she may be losing her mind when she begins experiencing frightening visions, headaches, and dreams that seem impossible to explain. The world of the book rejects supernatural belief, so Tess’s abilities are treated as dangerous rather than magical or wondrous. That gives the story a tense, eerie feeling without making it a horror novel. Is The Gifting scary? The book has a dark, suspenseful atmosphere. Readers should expect nightmares, visions, mental-health fears, danger, death, mysterious powers, and a society that treats people with unusual abilities as threats. It is more creepy and intense than graphic. The tension comes from Tess trying to understand what is happening to her and whether Luka Williams is part of the danger or the person who can help her survive. Is there romance in this book? Yes. Romance is an important part of the story. Tess and Luka have a strong connection with plenty of tension, mystery, and emotional pull. Their relationship develops alongside the supernatural and dystopian plot, so the romance is present but does not take over the entire book. Is there explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene? No. The romance is clean. There is attraction and romantic tension, but no explicit sexual content and no open-door sex scene. How much violence is in the book? The violence is moderate for YA. The book includes frightening visions, death, danger, fighting, blood, references to suicide, murder, bombings, kidnapping, and other dark events. Some moments may feel intense or disturbing, especially because Tess’s visions can be unsettling, but the violence is not written in a highly graphic or gratuitous way. Does this book contain swearing? There is some mild language and name-calling, but it is not heavy. The wording stays closer to mild teen-level expressions rather than strong profanity. Is this book part of a series? Yes. The Gifting is the first book in The Gifting Series. It is followed by The Awakening and The Gathering, with Luka as a companion novel. If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? No. The later books continue the suspense, danger, supernatural abilities, and romance, but the series does not appear to become sexually explicit. The stakes and violence increase as the larger conflict unfolds, but the romantic content remains clean rather than open-door.
(includes mild romance, some kissing, light violence, time-travel peril, and occasional mild language)
AUTHOR KERSTIN GIER
RUBY RED (BOOK 1)
Gwyneth Shepherd's sophisticated, beautiful cousin Charlotte has been prepared her entire life for traveling through time. But unexpectedly, it is Gwyneth who in the middle of class takes a sudden spin to a different era!
Gwyneth must now unearth the mystery of why her mother would lie about her birth date to ward off suspicion about her ability, brush up on her history, and work with Gideon—the time traveler from a similarly gifted family that passes the gene through its male line, and whose presence becomes, in time, less insufferable and more essential. Together, Gwyneth and Gideon journey through time to discover who, in the 18th century and in contemporary London, they can trust.
Kerstin Gier's Ruby Red is young adult novel full of fantasy and romance.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Kerstin Gier’s Ruby Red series is a charming and adventurous blend of time travel, mystery, and light romance that can be a great pick for families looking for engaging young adult fiction. The story follows Gwyneth, a teenager who unexpectedly inherits the ability to travel through time, diving headfirst into historical intrigue and secret societies. The tone is lighthearted with plenty of humor and clever dialogue, making it appealing for readers who enjoy fantastical plots without overly dark or intense themes. The romantic subplot adds emotional depth without overwhelming the main storyline. When it comes to content, Ruby Red remains fairly tame. There is no explicit sexual content—romantic tension and a few kisses are as far as it goes. Any violence is mild and mostly in the context of historical danger or suspense. Overall, the series stays well within the bounds of general comfort for most families, especially those seeking a story that’s imaginative and entertaining without graphic or mature material. It’s a fun, clean series that’s ideal for readers who love time-travel stories with a touch of romance and adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ruby Red by Kerstin Gier.
Is Ruby Red a clean YA time-travel fantasy? Ruby Red is a young adult fantasy novel with time travel, family secrets, historical intrigue, and a light romantic storyline. The story follows Gwyneth Shepherd, who unexpectedly inherits her family’s time-travel ability even though everyone believed her cousin Charlotte was the chosen one. The book has a fun, mysterious tone with secret societies, hidden motives, and a heroine who feels unprepared for the strange world she is pulled into. Does Ruby Red have a cliffhanger? Yes. Ruby Red is the first book in a trilogy, so it introduces the larger mystery without resolving everything. The ending leaves questions about the time-travel gene, the secretive Guardians, Gideon’s true feelings, and the bigger conspiracy surrounding Gwyneth’s family. It works best for readers who enjoy continuing into the next books. Is there romance in this book? Yes. There is a developing romance between Gwyneth and Gideon. It begins with tension, irritation, and mistrust, then slowly grows into attraction. The romance is important, but the book still spends a lot of time on the time-travel mystery and Gwyneth’s discovery of her role. Is there explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene? No. Ruby Red does not contain explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene. The romantic content is limited to attraction, tension, and kissing. How much violence is in the book? The violence is mild to moderate. There are dangerous time-travel situations, a sword-fighting scene, physical threats, a stabbing, gun-related danger, blood, and the discovery of a dead body. The violence is not highly graphic, but some moments may feel tense for sensitive readers. Does this book contain swearing? Ruby Red contains some light language, but profanity is not a major part of the book. Overall, the language stays fairly mild for YA. Is this book part of a series? Yes. Ruby Red is the first book in the Ruby Red Trilogy. The next books are Sapphire Blue and Emerald Green. If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? The later books continue the romance, mystery, time-travel danger, and emotional drama, but the series does not appear to become sexually explicit. The romantic tension grows stronger as the relationship develops, and the plot becomes more intense, but the content remains within a YA fantasy-romance range rather than turning into open-door romance.
(some violence, some kissing, some drinking and smoking, some swearing)
AUTHOR CHLOE GONG
THESE VIOLENT DELIGHTS
An Instant New York Times Bestseller!
A BuzzFeed Best Young Adult Book of 2020
Perfect for fans of The Last Magician and Serpent & Dove, this heart-stopping debut is an imaginative Romeo and Juliet retelling set in 1920s Shanghai, with rival gangs and a monster in the depths of the Huangpu River.
The year is 1926, and Shanghai hums to the tune of debauchery.
A blood feud between two gangs runs the streets red, leaving the city helpless in the grip of chaos. At the heart of it all is eighteen-year-old Juliette Cai, a former flapper who has returned to assume her role as the proud heir of the Scarlet Gang—a network of criminals far above the law. Their only rivals in power are the White Flowers, who have fought the Scarlets for generations. And behind every move is their heir, Roma Montagov, Juliette’s first love…and first betrayal.
But when gangsters on both sides show signs of instability culminating in clawing their own throats out, the people start to whisper. Of a contagion, a madness. Of a monster in the shadows. As the deaths stack up, Juliette and Roma must set their guns—and grudges—aside and work together, for if they can’t stop this mayhem, then there will be no city left for either to rule.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Chloe Gong’s These Violent Delights and its series offer a dark, atmospheric, and richly imaginative retelling of Romeo and Juliet, set in 1920s Shanghai. With its mix of historical fiction, political intrigue, fantasy horror, and enemies-to-lovers romance, it’s a great choice for readers who enjoy complex characters and morally gray conflicts. The writing is intelligent and layered, and the story explores deeper themes like loyalty, identity, and the cost of power, which can spark thoughtful discussions. The romance is emotional and tense but doesn’t overshadow the fast-paced plot or the eerie mystery at the heart of the book. In terms of content, this series does include some mature elements that families may want to consider. There is occasional strong language, violence—including monster attacks and political executions—and some intense emotional scenes. The romance remains relatively clean, though it includes kissing and a few sensual moments, nothing explicit. Because of the darker tone and heavier themes, this book may be better suited for readers who are comfortable with a bit more grit and complexity in their fiction. For those who enjoy historical fantasy with high stakes and beautifully written tension, this series could be a compelling choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About These Violent Delights by Chloe Gong.
Is These Violent Delights a Romeo and Juliet retelling? Yes. These Violent Delights is a dark YA fantasy retelling of Romeo and Juliet set in 1920s Shanghai. Instead of feuding families, the story centers on rival gangs: the Scarlet Gang and the White Flowers. Juliette Cai and Roma Montagov are former lovers from opposite sides of the conflict, and their dangerous history gives the book much of its emotional tension. Is These Violent Delights appropriate for sensitive readers? This book is best for readers who can handle darker YA content. It includes gang violence, political unrest, racism, murder, body horror, blood, and a mysterious madness that causes disturbing deaths. The story is atmospheric and intense, with more grit and gore than many lighter YA fantasies. Is there romance in this book? Yes. Romance is central to the story, but it is complicated, painful, and tied to betrayal. Juliette and Roma have a past relationship, and their unresolved feelings are tangled with loyalty, grief, and mistrust. The romance is more angsty and slow-burning than sweet. Is there explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene? No. There is no open-door sex scene. The sexual content is limited compared with the violence. There is kissing, romantic tension, some sensual description, and references to brothels, but the book does not become sexually explicit. How much violence is in the book? The violence is heavy for YA. Readers should expect blood, murder, gun violence, gang conflict, body horror, insects, self-harm-like deaths caused by the madness, and some gory descriptions. The violence is not just background action; it is part of the book’s tone and plot. Does this book contain swearing? Yes. The book contains some profanity, including mild to stronger language and untranslated profanity in other languages. Swearing is not constant on every page, but it is definitely present. Is this book part of a series? Yes. These Violent Delights is the first book in a duology. The sequel is Our Violent Ends. The larger Secret Shanghai world continues with related books, but These Violent Delights and Our Violent Ends form the main completed duology. If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? The sequel continues the dark tone, violence, danger, romance, and emotional intensity, but it does not shift into open-door sexual content. The romantic stakes increase, and the violence remains significant, so the series becomes more intense in plot and consequences rather than more sexually explicit.
(moderate violence, political intrigue, mild language, and a slow-burn romance with no explicit sexual content)
AUTHOR CHLOE GONG
FOUL LADY FORTUNE
From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of These Violent Delights.
It’s 1931 in Shanghai, and the stage is set for a new decade of intrigue.
Four years ago, Rosalind Lang was brought back from the brink of death, but the strange experiment that saved her also stopped her from sleeping and aging—and allows her to heal from any wound. In short, Rosalind cannot die. Now, desperate for redemption for her traitorous past, she uses her abilities as an assassin for her country.
Code name: Fortune.
But when the Japanese Imperial Army begins its invasion march, Rosalind’s mission pivots. A series of murders is causing unrest in Shanghai, and the Japanese are under suspicion. Rosalind’s new orders are to infiltrate foreign society and identify the culprits behind the terror plot before more of her people are killed.
To reduce suspicion, however, she must pose as the wife of another Nationalist spy, Orion Hong, and though Rosalind finds Orion’s cavalier attitude and playboy demeanor infuriating, she is willing to work with him for the greater good. But Orion has an agenda of his own, and Rosalind has secrets that she wants to keep buried. As they both attempt to unravel the conspiracy, the two spies soon find that there are deeper and more horrifying layers to this mystery than they ever imagined.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Foul Lady Fortune by Chloe Gong might be a good choice for families who enjoy complex historical fiction mixed with mystery, espionage, and a touch of romance. The story, set in 1930s Shanghai, offers a rich backdrop of political tension and intrigue that can spark meaningful discussions about history, loyalty, and identity. The romance develops slowly and remains emotionally driven rather than physical, making it appropriate for readers who prefer stories that focus on character connection over graphic content. There's no explicit sexual content—just a few flirtatious or romantic moments—so families concerned about mature romance themes will likely find it mild and tasteful. On the other hand, the book does contain frequent scenes of violence, including assassination, political brutality, and intense action sequences, which might be unsettling for more sensitive readers. The atmosphere is dark at times, and while the language isn’t excessive, there are occasional uses of profanity that might be a concern for families who prefer cleaner dialogue. Because of its layered political themes and heavier tone, some readers might find it too intense or complex, especially if they're looking for lighter or more straightforward young adult stories. Families who prioritize uplifting or low-conflict narratives may want to consider whether the book’s darker elements are the right fit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Foul Lady Fortune by Chloe Gong.
Is Foul Lady Fortune connected to These Violent Delights? Yes. Foul Lady Fortune is set in the same Secret Shanghai world as These Violent Delights and Our Violent Ends. It follows Rosalind Lang after the events of the earlier duology, so readers will understand more emotional background if they read those books first. However, this book begins a new storyline with a new main mystery, new political tensions, and a fake-marriage spy setup. Is Foul Lady Fortune a good choice for readers who like historical fantasy with spies? Yes. This book leans heavily into espionage, secret identities, political danger, and 1930s Shanghai intrigue. Rosalind is an immortal assassin working undercover, and Orion Hong is paired with her as a pretend husband while they investigate a series of strange murders. The tone is dramatic, stylish, and tense, with more spy-thriller elements than traditional fantasy adventure. Is there romance in this book? Yes. The romance is important, but it is slow-burn. Rosalind and Orion begin as partners in a fake marriage, which creates banter, tension, mistrust, and gradual emotional connection. Their relationship develops alongside the mystery rather than replacing the main plot. Is there explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene? No. Foul Lady Fortune does not contain an open-door sex scene. There is kissing, romantic tension, and one scene involving sexual coercion as a threat, but the book does not become sexually explicit. How much violence is in the book? The violence is moderate to heavy for YA. The story includes assassinations, murder investigations, weapons, blood, poisonings, political violence, and dangerous medical experimentation. Some scenes are intense, though the book is not written as nonstop gore. Does this book contain swearing? Yes. There is profanity, including stronger language. It is not the focus of the book, but readers who avoid swearing should know it is present. Is this book part of a series? Yes. Foul Lady Fortune is the first book in a duology. The sequel is Foul Heart Huntsman. It is also part of Chloe Gong’s larger Secret Shanghai universe. If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? The sequel continues the romance, danger, violence, political tension, and spy drama, but the series does not appear to shift into open-door sexual content. The intensity comes more from betrayal, espionage, violence, and emotional stakes than from explicit romance.
(contains mild romance, implied sexual content, moderate violence, and some swearing)
AUTHOR THEODORA GOSS
THE STRANGE CASE OF THE ALCHEMIST'S DAUGHTER
Based on some of literature’s horror and science fiction classics, this “tour de force of reclaiming the narrative, executed with impressive wit and insight” (Publishers Weekly, starred review) debut is the story of a remarkable group of women who come together to solve the mystery of a series of gruesome murders—and the bigger mystery of their own origins.
Mary Jekyll, alone and penniless following her parents’ death, is curious about the secrets of her father’s mysterious past. One clue in particular hints that Edward Hyde, her father’s former friend and a murderer, may be nearby, and there is a reward for information leading to his capture…a reward that would solve all of her immediate financial woes.
But her hunt leads her to Hyde’s daughter, Diana, a feral child left to be raised by nuns. With the assistance of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, Mary continues her search for the elusive Hyde, and soon befriends more women, all of whom have been created through terrifying experimentation: Beatrice Rappaccini, Catherin Moreau, and Justine Frankenstein.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Theodora Goss's The Strange Case of the Alchemist's Daughter and its series would be a great choice for readers who enjoy classic literature, mystery, and strong female characters. The story combines familiar characters from gothic fiction, such as Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Frankenstein's monster, and more, with an original twist. The female protagonists, who are the daughters of these characters, form an unlikely but empowering group as they solve a series of mysterious crimes. It’s a fun and engaging narrative that introduces readers to both the thrill of gothic horror and the complexity of female empowerment, all within an enjoyable, adventurous story. As for content, the book is relatively mild in terms of violence and mature themes. It deals with some darker elements, like murder, betrayal, and unethical scientific experimentation, but these themes are presented thoughtfully and not in graphic detail. There is no explicit sexual content, although there are some mild romantic undertones and moments of emotional tension. The narrative is more focused on character development, mystery, and the exploration of gothic tropes. This makes it an excellent choice for readers who enjoy suspense, intellectual engagement, and classic themes without the risk of explicit content or excessive violence.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Strange Case of the Alchemist’s Daughter by Theodora Goss.
Is The Strange Case of the Alchemist’s Daughter a retelling of classic monster stories? Yes. The book reimagines several classic Gothic and Victorian stories through the daughters or creations connected to famous literary men, including Dr. Jekyll, Mr. Hyde, Frankenstein, Dr. Moreau, and others. It blends mystery, historical fantasy, Gothic horror, and feminist adventure. The story follows Mary Jekyll as she investigates her father’s secrets and becomes connected with other unusual young women whose lives were shaped by dangerous experiments. Is The Strange Case of the Alchemist’s Daughter more mystery, fantasy, or horror? It is a mix of all three, but the strongest feel is historical mystery with Gothic fantasy elements. Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson are involved in the investigation, and the plot includes murders, strange science, hidden identities, and monstrous experiments. It has creepy and macabre content, but it is not written like a nonstop horror novel. The tone also includes wit, friendship, and character banter. Is there romance in this book? There is very little romance. The focus is much more on mystery, friendship, survival, identity, and the formation of the Athena Club. Some characters have possible romantic tension or emotional connections, but romance is not the driving force of the story. Is there explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene? No. There is no open-door sex scene. However, the book does include references to prostitution, murdered women connected to that world, exploitation, and disturbing treatment of women. Those elements are handled as part of the Gothic murder mystery rather than as explicit romantic or sexual scenes. How much violence is in the book? The violence is moderate to heavy, depending on reader sensitivity. The story includes murders, dead bodies, body parts, medical experimentation, dissection, kidnapping, abuse, attempted murder, blood, and references to the Jack the Ripper-style killing of women. Much of the violence is tied to Gothic science and murder investigation, so it can feel grisly even when the narration is not constantly graphic. Does this book contain swearing? Yes, but it is not especially profanity-heavy. There is some mild to moderate swearing, along with period-appropriate insults and harsh language. Readers sensitive to language may notice it, but violence and disturbing Gothic themes are the bigger content concerns. Is this book part of a series? Yes. The Strange Case of the Alchemist’s Daughter is the first book in The Extraordinary Adventures of the Athena Club series. The series continues with European Travel for the Monstrous Gentlewoman and The Sinister Mystery of the Mesmerizing Girl. If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? The later books continue the same general style: Gothic mystery, adventure, danger, strange science, and feminist reworkings of classic monster stories. The series does not appear to shift into open-door sexual content. The darker material remains more focused on violence, experimentation, exploitation, kidnapping, and suspense rather than explicit romance.
(violence, themes of death, mild language, and romantic tension with supernatural elements)
AUTHOR LIA HABEL
DEARLY, DEPARTED
CAN A PROPER YOUNG VICTORIAN LADY FIND TRUE LOVE IN THE ARMS OF A DASHING ZOMBIE?
The year is 2195. The place is New Victoria—a high-tech nation modeled on the mores of an antique era. Sixteen-year-old Nora Dearly is far more interested in her country’s political unrest than in silly debutante balls. But the death of her beloved parents leaves Nora at the mercy of a social-climbing aunt who plans to marry off her niece for money. To Nora, no fate could be more horrible—until she’s nearly kidnapped by an army of walking corpses. Now she’s suddenly gunning down ravenous zombies alongside mysterious black-clad commandos and confronting a fatal virus that raises the dead. Then Nora meets Bram Griswold, a young soldier who is brave, handsome, noble . . . and thoroughly deceased. But like the rest of his special undead unit, Bram has been enabled by luck and modern science to hold on to his mind, his manners, and his body parts. And when his bond of trust with Nora turns to tenderness, there’s no turning back. Eventually, they know, the disease will win, separating the star-crossed lovers forever. But until then, beating or not, their hearts will have what they desire.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Lia Habel's Dearly, Departed and its series would be a great choice for readers who enjoy unique takes on the zombie genre, blending romance, adventure, and a Victorian-inspired steampunk setting. The world-building is imaginative, with a post-apocalyptic society where both humans and reanimated corpses, called "Ghouls," coexist. The protagonist, Nora, becomes embroiled in a complex love story with one of these Ghouls, Bram, which adds a fascinating layer to the narrative. Fans of supernatural romance will appreciate the unusual premise and the mix of romance with action and mystery. The themes of acceptance, loyalty, and discovering humanity in unlikely places are explored in ways that will engage readers looking for more than just a typical zombie story. Regarding content, the book includes some mature themes, particularly in its portrayal of the romantic relationship between Nora and Bram. While the romance is not explicit, it does involve sensual tension, with a few kissing scenes and moments of emotional intimacy. There is violence as well, mostly related to the action elements of the story, such as battles with zombies and the social unrest that permeates the setting. The gore is not excessive, but it may be unsettling for some readers. Overall, the book balances its dark themes with a romance-driven narrative, making it a good fit for readers who appreciate a darker, steampunk twist on the zombie genre without too much graphic content.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dearly, Departed by Lia Habel.
Is Dearly, Departed a zombie romance? Yes. Dearly, Departed is a YA steampunk zombie romance set in a futuristic society that has revived Victorian manners, fashion, and social rules. The story follows Nora Dearly, a young woman who is pulled into a dangerous conflict involving the living, the undead, and political unrest. The unusual twist is that some zombies are intelligent, sympathetic, and still very human in personality, which allows the book to mix romance, action, humor, and horror. Is Dearly, Departed more funny, creepy, or romantic? It is a blend of all three, though the tone is often more adventurous and romantic than terrifying. There are creepy zombie elements, attacks, decay, danger, and death, but the book also has witty dialogue, emotional friendships, and a surprisingly sweet romance. Readers who like unusual paranormal romance may enjoy the way it turns the expected zombie story into something more character-driven. Is there romance in this book? Yes. Romance is a major part of the book. Nora develops feelings for Bram, who is a zombie soldier. Their relationship is unusual but sincere, and it grows through trust, protection, and shared danger. There are also additional romantic threads involving other characters. Is there explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene? No. Dearly, Departed does not contain explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene. The romance includes attraction, emotional closeness, and kissing, but it stays clean. How much violence is in the book? The violence is moderate. Since this is a zombie novel, readers should expect attacks, fighting, weapons, death, infection, decay, and some gross or unsettling zombie descriptions. There is action and danger throughout, but the violence is not written as extreme horror. Does this book contain swearing? There is some mild language, but the book is not especially profanity-heavy. The bigger content concerns are zombie violence, danger, and occasional creepy imagery rather than swearing. Is this book part of a series? Yes. Dearly, Departed is the first book in the Gone with the Respiration series. The sequel is Dearly, Beloved. If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? The sequel continues the zombie danger, romance, political conflict, and action, but it does not appear to shift into explicit sexual content. The series may grow more intense in violence and emotional stakes, but the romance remains YA rather than open-door.
(violence, dark themes, mild language, and intense emotional situations)
AUTHOR M.K. HARKINS
THE READER
Hunted, shot, and without her memory, eighteen-year-old Ann Baker wakes in shallow water on a deserted Pacific Northwest island. She is soon approached by two young men claiming to be her friends. Something isn’t right, but when gunshots sound, Ann is left with little choice but to allow Devon and Archer to help her escape. Soon she finds herself in their North Bend mountain compound, where the higher evolved humans claim to be mind-readers. While Ann heals, she realizes they believe her to be one of the last and most powerful of all – The Lost One.
She’s welcomed by most with opened arms, but not everyone is happy about her arrival. A jealous adversary has plans for Ann, which spirals the entire Reader community into chaos.
As lies, murder, and betrayal threaten to rip apart the once harmonious mountain dwellers, Ann is thrust into making a decision that could save or devastate not only The Readers, but all of mankind. But there’s just one glitch: by doing so it may require her to make the ultimate sacrifice.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
M.K. Harkins’s The Reader and its series would be an excellent choice for families or readers looking for a blend of action, adventure, and a unique supernatural premise. The story follows the protagonist, Kay, who discovers she has the ability to read people’s emotions and thoughts, a skill that draws her into a world of danger and intrigue. The plot is fast-paced, with a good mix of mystery and fantasy elements, keeping readers engaged throughout the series. The characters are well-developed, and Kay’s growth as she learns to navigate her powers and relationships is a central theme. The book also emphasizes themes of trust, loyalty, and self-discovery, making it both an entertaining and thought-provoking read for fans of young adult fantasy. Regarding content, the book stays relatively light on mature themes, with minimal sexual content. There is some romantic tension and a few moments of kissing, but nothing explicit or overly sensual. The violence is more prominent, with some action scenes involving physical confrontations and a certain level of danger, but the overall tone remains more about emotional tension and the stakes of Kay’s journey rather than gratuitous violence. The book’s level of intensity and its emotional themes make it a good choice for readers looking for an engaging story without heavy gore or sexual content, making it suitable for a wide range of readers.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Reader by M.K. Harkins.
Is The Reader a clean paranormal romance? The Reader is a YA paranormal romance with action, suspense, memory loss, hidden abilities, and a secret society feel. The story follows Ann Baker, an eighteen-year-old girl who wakes injured and without her memory, then discovers she may be part of a world of powerful mind-readers. It has danger and romance, but it stays fairly clean overall. Does The Reader have a love triangle? Yes, there is a romantic triangle element. Ann is caught between confusing memories, emotional connections, and the attention of more than one young man. The romance adds tension to the story, but the paranormal mystery and danger are just as important. Is there romance in this book? Yes. Romance is a major part of the book. It includes attraction, emotional tension, jealousy, and complicated feelings, especially because Ann does not fully remember her past. Is there explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene? No. The Reader does not have an open-door sex scene. There may be some implied sensual content and romantic tension, but it does not become explicit. How much violence is in the book? The violence is moderate. The story includes gunfire, injuries, fighting, threats, murder, betrayal, and people being hunted. It is action-driven, but not extremely graphic. Does this book contain swearing? Yes. There is some swearing. It is not the main feature of the book, but readers who avoid profanity completely should know that language is present. Is this book part of a series? Yes. The Reader is the first book in The Immortal Series. The next book is The Jack. If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? The series continues with danger, romance, supernatural conflict, and suspense, but it does not appear to shift into open-door sexual content. The later book may continue the same general level of romantic tension, violence, and language rather than becoming significantly more explicit.
(mild romance, brief kissing, some violence, some swearing, and drug references.)
AUTHOR HEIDI HEILIG
THE GIRL FROM EVERYWHERE
Heidi Heilig's debut teen fantasy sweeps from modern-day New York City, to nineteenth-century Hawaii, to places of myth and legend. Sixteen-year-old Nix has sailed across the globe and through centuries aboard her time-traveling father's ship. But when he gambles with her very existence, it all may be about to end. The Girl from Everywhere, the first of two books, blends fantasy, history, and a modern sensibility. Its witty, fast-paced dialogue, breathless adventure, multicultural cast, and enchanting romance will dazzle readers of Sabaa Tahir, Rae Carson, and Rachel Hartman.
Nix's life began in Honolulu in 1868. Since then she has traveled to mythic Scandinavia, a land from the tales of One Thousand and One Nights, modern-day New York City, and many more places both real and imagined. As long as he has a map, Nix's father can sail his ship, The Temptation, to any place, any time. But now he's uncovered the one map he's always sought—1868 Honolulu, before Nix's mother died in childbirth. Nix's life—her entire existence—is at stake. No one knows what will happen if her father changes the past. It could erase Nix's future, her dreams, her adventures . . . her connection with the charming Persian thief, Kash, who's been part of their crew for two years. If Nix helps her father reunite with the love of his life, it will cost her her own.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Heidi Heilig’s The Girl From Everywhere and its series would be an exciting choice for readers who enjoy historical fiction with a fantastical twist. The book follows Nix, a young woman who can travel through time and space with the help of her father’s ship, which is able to navigate the currents of time. The series weaves together elements of time travel, adventure, and rich historical settings, making it a great option for those who enjoy complex plots and well-developed characters. Heilig does a fantastic job of blending different time periods, cultures, and places, which keeps the story fresh and intriguing. It also deals with themes like identity, fate, and the consequences of choices, making it not only an adventurous read but also a thought-provoking one. As for content, The Girl From Everywhere is relatively mild in terms of mature themes. There is some romantic tension and kissing between characters, but no explicit sexual content. The story does touch on emotional complexity, particularly in Nix’s relationship with her father and her own sense of belonging, which gives it some depth. The book also contains some moments of action and danger, with scenes that involve physical threats and high-stakes situations. These elements add intensity to the story, but they are not overwhelming. Overall, this series would be a good fit for readers looking for a mix of adventure, romance, and emotional depth, without delving into graphic violence or explicit content.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Girl from Everywhere by Heidi Heilig.
Is The Girl from Everywhere a clean YA time-travel fantasy? The Girl from Everywhere is a YA historical fantasy about a girl named Nix who travels through time and place aboard her father’s ship, as long as they have the right map. The story blends seafaring adventure, mythology, history, family conflict, and romance. It has some mature themes, especially drug addiction and colonial history, but the sexual content stays mild. Does The Girl from Everywhere have pirates? Yes. The book has a pirate-adventure feel, though it is more thoughtful and historical than a simple swashbuckling story. Nix and the crew steal, bargain, sail between eras, and become involved in danger surrounding 1800s Hawaii. The plot includes maps, time travel, political tension, and questions about whether changing the past could destroy the future. Is there romance in this book? Yes. There is romance, including a possible love-triangle element. Nix has a close bond with Kashmir, a charming member of the crew, while another young man also becomes important to the story. The romance is present but does not overpower the time-travel plot or Nix’s complicated relationship with her father. Is there explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene? No. There is no explicit sexual content or open-door sex scene. The romantic content includes flirting, kissing, cuddling, and some suggestive assumptions made by other characters, but nothing graphic happens on the page. How much violence is in the book? The violence is mild to moderate. There are threats, criminal activity, weapons, injuries, and a more dangerous climax, but the book is not especially gory. Some readers may be more affected by the emotional heaviness, drug addiction, death, racism, and historical injustice than by the physical violence itself. Does this book contain swearing? Yes. There is some language, including mild profanity and several uses of deity. It is not constant, but it is noticeable. Is this book part of a series? Yes. The Girl from Everywhere is the first book in a duology. The second book is The Ship Beyond Time. If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? The sequel continues the adventure, romance, danger, and emotional stakes, but the series does not appear to turn into open-door romance. The content remains in the YA fantasy-adventure range, with more intensity coming from choices, consequences, and peril rather than explicit sexual material.
(mild language, and minimal violence)
AUTHOR COLLEEN HELME
CARROTS (BOOK 1)
A mind-reader, a mob-boss, and a hit-man. What could go wrong? More fun than you can imagine!
"One of the best and rarest gems of the indie book market."~ Matthew LeDrew
Stopping at the grocery store for carrots shouldn't be dangerous, but for Shelby Nichols, it changes her life forever. During a bank robbery, she is caught in the cross-fire and grazed by a bullet to the head, leaving her with the ability to read minds.
Not only is she hearing what everyone thinks about her, but the gunman who shot her is out to silence her forever. In her fight to stay alive she is saved from certain death by a handsome hit-man with ties to organized crime.
This pulls Shelby even deeper into danger, where knowing someone's thoughts can not only hurt her feelings, but get her killed.
USA TODAY and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Colleen Helme offers a clever mix of mystery, laugh-out-loud humor, and page-turning adventure in the highly acclaimed Shelby Nichols Adventure Series.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Carrots by Colleen Helme is a lighthearted, fast-paced mystery that blends humor, suspense, and a touch of the paranormal. The story follows Shelby Nichols, a suburban mom who gains the unexpected ability to read minds after a stray bullet grazes her head during a bank robbery. Her new talent leads her into a whirlwind of danger involving mobsters, hitmen, and crime-solving adventures. The book is filled with witty dialogue, quirky characters, and comedic situations, making it an entertaining read for those who enjoy cozy mysteries with a supernatural twist. In terms of content, Carrots is relatively clean. There is minimal swearing and no explicit sexual content, making it suitable for a broad audience, including teens and adults who prefer their mysteries without graphic elements. The violence is mild and often presented in a humorous context, aligning with the book's overall light tone. However, some themes, such as marital fidelity and organized crime, are touched upon, which may prompt discussions among younger readers. Overall, Carrots is a delightful choice for readers seeking a fun, engaging mystery without heavy or explicit content.
Frequently Asked Questions About Carrots by Colleen Helme.
Is Carrots a cozy mystery or a paranormal mystery? Carrots is a light paranormal cozy mystery with humor, suspense, and a touch of crime drama. Shelby Nichols is a wife and mother who goes to the store for carrots, gets caught in a robbery, and survives a head injury that leaves her able to read minds. The story has danger, mob trouble, and mystery, but the tone stays fun and fast-paced rather than dark. Is Carrots a clean read? Mostly, yes. It is not written as a steamy romance or gritty crime thriller. The content is fairly mild overall, though it does include crime, gun danger, attempted murder, mob-related threats, and some language. It is more appropriate for readers who enjoy clean-ish paranormal mysteries with humor and suspense. Is there romance in this book? Yes, but it is not a romance-centered book. Shelby is already married, and her relationship with her husband is part of the story. There is also some tension involving attraction and jealousy, especially as Shelby’s new ability complicates what she knows about the people around her. Is there explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene? No. Carrots does not contain explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene. There may be marital affection, attraction, and mild romantic tension, but the book does not become graphic. How much violence is in the book? The violence is mild to moderate. The story includes a robbery, a gunshot injury, threats, criminal activity, attempted murder, and mob danger. The violence creates suspense, but it is not described in a highly graphic way. Does this book contain swearing? Yes. There is some swearing and mild profanity. It is not overwhelming, but readers looking for completely profanity-free fiction should know language is present. Is this book part of a series? Yes. Carrots is the first book in the Shelby Nichols Adventures series, which follows Shelby through more mysteries, danger, mob entanglements, and mind-reading complications. If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? The series continues with crime, danger, suspense, and occasional romantic tension, but it does not appear to shift into explicit or open-door sexual content. Later books may increase the danger and stakes, especially with mysteries, mob plots, murder, and threats, but the overall tone remains more cozy-paranormal mystery than explicit adult thriller.
(psychological themes, mild violence, dark supernatural elements, and some romantic tension.)
AUTHOR MICHELLE HODKIN
THE UNBECOMING OF MARA DYER
Mara Dyer doesn’t know if she is crazy or haunted—all she knows is that everyone around her is dying in this suspenseful and “strong, inventive tale” (Kirkus Reviews).
Mara Dyer doesn’t think life can get any stranger than waking up in a hospital with no memory of how she got there.
It can.
She believes there must be more to the accident she can’t remember that killed her friends and left her mysteriously unharmed.
There is.
She doesn’t believe that after everything she’s been through, she can fall in love.
She’s wrong.
After Mara survives the traumatizing accident at the old asylum, it makes sense that she has issues. She lost her best friend, her boyfriend, and her boyfriend’s sister, and as if that weren’t enough to cope with, her family moves to a new state in order to give her a fresh start. But that fresh start is quickly filled with hallucinations—or are they premonitions?—and then corpses, and the boundary between reality and nightmare is wavering. At school, there’s Noah, a devastatingly handsome charmer who seems determined to help Mara piece together what’s real, what’s imagined—and what’s very, very dangerous.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Michelle Hodkin’s The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer and its series offers a compelling mix of psychological thriller and supernatural elements that will draw in readers who appreciate suspense, mystery, and a deep exploration of mental health. The main character, Mara, is dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic event and questioning her sanity as strange occurrences unfold around her. The series combines suspense with a slow burn of mystery, keeping readers on edge as they follow Mara’s journey. Its eerie atmosphere, coupled with the complex narrative, makes it ideal for readers who enjoy a darker, more psychological approach to storytelling. On the downside, however, the series deals with some intense themes, including trauma, grief, and mental illness, which may be too heavy for some readers. There is no explicit sexual content, but the series does include romantic moments with some mild physical intimacy, such as kissing and more suggestive content. Additionally, the violence and psychological tension in the book could be unsettling for younger or more sensitive readers. If you’re looking for a lighter or more straightforward story, this might not be the best fit, as it delves into darker, more mature themes. Overall, it’s an engaging read for those who enjoy psychological thrillers, but families should consider the emotional intensity and some of the more mature themes before deciding if it's the right choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin.
What is the main mystery in The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer? The central mystery is what really happened the night an abandoned building collapsed and killed Mara’s friends while leaving Mara alive. Mara wakes with no memory of the event, then begins experiencing disturbing visions, gaps in reality, and deaths that seem connected to her emotions. The book blends psychological suspense, paranormal elements, and unreliable narration, so readers are often left questioning whether Mara is traumatized, mentally ill, haunted, or something else entirely. Is The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer scary? Yes, it has a creepy, unsettling tone rather than nonstop horror. The story includes hallucinations, death, disturbing memories, fear of losing one’s sanity, and a constant sense that something is wrong beneath the surface. It is more psychological and paranormal than gory horror, but it can feel intense because Mara herself is unsure what is real. Is there romance in this book? Yes. The romance between Mara and Noah Shaw is a major part of the story. Their relationship includes flirtation, emotional tension, kissing, attraction, and a somewhat brooding bad-boy dynamic. The romance is strong but tangled with the mystery and Mara’s trauma. Is there explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene? No. There is no open-door sex scene in this book. There is sensual content, kissing, sexual tension, and references to attraction, but the book does not become graphically explicit. How much violence is in the book? The violence is moderate and sometimes disturbing. Several deaths occur or are discussed, including the building collapse that kills Mara’s friends. There are also frightening accidents, threatening situations, bullying, animal death, and moments where Mara fears she may be responsible for harm around her. The violence is more eerie and psychologically intense than graphically described, though some content may be upsetting. Does this book contain swearing? Yes. The book contains swearing and crude language, including a noticeable amount of profanity and religious exclamations. It is not clean in terms of language. Is this book part of a series? Yes. It is the first book in the Mara Dyer trilogy. The series continues with The Evolution of Mara Dyer and The Retribution of Mara Dyer. There is also a related follow-up series centered on Noah Shaw. If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? Yes, especially if continuing into the related Noah Shaw books. The original Mara Dyer trilogy becomes darker and more intense, with more danger, psychological distress, violence, sexual situations, and heavier content. The later Noah Shaw companion series is generally more mature, with stronger language, underage drinking/drug references, and more sexual content than the first Mara Dyer book.
(mild violence, romantic tension, and some dark themes
AUTHOR CHARLIE N. HOLMBERG
FOLLOWED BY FROST
“Charlie is a vibrant writer with an excellent voice and great world building.”
—Brandon Sanderson, author of Mistborn and The Way of Kings
Seventeen-year-old Smitha's wealth, status, and beauty make her the envy of her town—until she rejects a strange man’s marriage proposal and disastrous consequences follow. Smitha becomes cursed, and frost begins to encompass everything she touches. Banished to the hills, hunted by villagers, and chilled to the very core of her soul, she finds companionship with Death, who longs to coax her into his isolated world. But Smitha's desire for life proves stronger than despair, and a newfound purpose gives her hope. Will regrets over the past and an unexpected desire for a man she cannot touch be enough to warm Smitha’s heart, or will Death forever still it?
Frequently Asked Questions About Followed by Frost by Charlie N. Holmberg.
Is Followed by Frost a fairy-tale-style fantasy? Yes. Followed by Frost has a strong fairy-tale feeling, with a magical curse, an emotional journey, a harsh winter atmosphere, and a heroine who must change inwardly before her outward circumstances can truly improve. The story follows Smitha, a proud and wealthy young woman whose life collapses after she rejects a strange man’s proposal and is cursed so that frost follows her wherever she goes. The book is less about a sprawling fantasy world and more about transformation, humility, survival, sacrifice, and learning to love selflessly. Is Followed by Frost appropriate for younger teen readers? For many readers, yes, especially compared with darker or more explicit YA fantasy. The book does deal with loneliness, rejection, death, danger, and emotional suffering, but it is written in a relatively clean style. Sensitive readers should know that the story includes hardship, villagers turning against Smitha, war-related danger, and references to death, but it does not rely on graphic violence or explicit sexual content. Is there romance in this book? Yes. Romance is an important part of the story, though it develops more gently than in many YA fantasy novels. Smitha’s emotional growth is tied closely to learning what real love looks like, especially after beginning the story as selfish and dismissive. The romance has a clean, fairy-tale quality with longing, tenderness, sacrifice, and emotional connection. Is there explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene? No. Followed by Frost does not contain explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene. The romance stays clean, with affection and emotional intimacy rather than graphic sensual detail. How much violence is in the book? The violence is mild to moderate. There are dangerous situations, deaths, threats from frightened or angry villagers, and some war-related peril. Death is also personified as a character, which gives the story a darker, more reflective tone. The violence is not especially graphic, but the emotional weight of death, isolation, and suffering is present throughout the book. Does this book contain swearing? The book appears to contain little to no strong profanity. Its overall tone is clean, and language is not a major content concern. Is this book part of a series? No. Followed by Frost is a standalone novel.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Charlie N. Holmberg’s Followed by Frost is an enchanting choice for readers who enjoy whimsical fantasy and character-driven stories. The book introduces a unique world where magic is tied to emotions, and the protagonist, Celia, is a young woman who struggles with controlling her own magic after a heartbreak. The novel is filled with charming moments, character growth, and a slow-burning romance that will appeal to readers who enjoy discovering personal strength and navigating the complexities of relationships. The focus on emotional healing, magic, and personal discovery makes this a heartwarming read for those who like stories with a balance of adventure and introspection. On the other hand, Followed by Frost doesn’t contain explicit sexual content, which is a plus for those seeking more wholesome material. However, there are mild romantic elements, including moments of attraction, kissing, and some tension between characters that evolve over time. The primary focus is more on Celia's emotional journey, magical abilities, and personal growth rather than the romance. Some readers may find the pacing slow or the romance a bit predictable, but for families looking for a lighthearted fantasy with little to no mature content, it’s a safe and enjoyable choice. It’s ideal for readers who appreciate a magical atmosphere and an emotionally driven narrative.