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SWEET ROMANTASY
Authors D - G
At a Glance
(mild romance, duels and fantasy violence, and light swearing)
AUTHOR KAREN DALIATH
DEULING THE SUITORS
What if the princess unknowingly said “I do” to the very enemy threatening her kingdom?
Princess Astoria always hated the idea of marriage.
So when her father demands she wed a powerful wizard to defend their kingdom from invasion, Astoria agrees on one condition: her prospective groom must first defeat her in a magical duel and prove himself worthy of her hand.
Suitor after suitor, Astoria bests every magic-born man her father presents, earning her fame across the continent as the Unyielding Princess of Daliston.
When no mages remain to challenge her, a lowly street performer arrives at the castle to face the renowned princess. Little does she know, this mysterious stranger may be the only one powerful enough to defeat her in the duel.
But what happens when her champion turns out to be the one man she never expected?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Dueling the Suitors by Karen Daliath is a fast-paced fantasy novel with elements of romance, intrigue, and adventure. Readers who enjoy stories with duels, strategic plots, and magical or historical conflicts may find it engaging. The romantic tension is mild and suggestive at most, without explicit sexual content, making the series appealing for those who enjoy romance woven into a larger adventurous narrative. The book also emphasizes character development, loyalty, and strategy, which adds depth beyond the action and romance. Parents may find some content concerning, particularly the frequent duels, violence, and occasional descriptions of torture or blood. There is also light swearing, which might not suit all family preferences. While the romance is clean, the tension and dark fantasy elements—such as murder or life-threatening danger—could be intense for sensitive readers, making it a series better suited for those comfortable with adventurous, slightly darker fantasy themes.
(features mild romance and magical adventure)
AUTHOR KATELYN DALIATH
FLAMING THE CINDERS
What if Cinderella were a mage, framed by Prince Charming for theft, and forced to pose as his fiancée to help him seize a rival throne?
Estora Sommerset has a centuries-old secret that would endanger her life, if it were ever discovered. Of course, the last person she expected to figure it out was the crownless prince of her kingdom, that she's a mage with a single glance.
When Prince Axel approaches her for help, she rejects him. But the next morning, she’s arrested for a crime she didn’t commit and brought straight to the castle, to the prince.
Ensuring her cooperation by framing her, the prince has a nefarious purpose: overthrow a neighboring royal family and take their crown. She wants to refuse, but with her reputation in tatters, Estora has no choice but to pose as his fake fiancée and journey with him to the neighboring kingdom under the guise of strengthening their alliance.
Will Estora be able to find a way to thwart his dangerous plan or is she doomed to lose her heart as their fake engagement starts to feel all too real? Perhaps there’s more to the cocky, handsome prince despite his ruthlessness and thirst for power?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Flaming the Cinders: A Cinderella Retelling by Katelyn Daliath is a whimsical fantasy that reimagines the classic story with magical elements, adventure, and romance. The romantic subplot is sweet and suggestive but remains completely clean, making it appealing to readers who enjoy light romance without explicit sexual content. The story also incorporates magical duels and challenges that add excitement and depth, providing an engaging experience for fans of fairy tale retellings with a slightly darker, adventurous twist. Parents might note that while the romance is clean, the book includes magical conflicts that involve danger, minor violence, and tension between characters. These elements are mild and fantastical but could be intense for very sensitive readers. Overall, the series is generally safe, though families seeking only completely calm, conflict-free stories may want to consider these fantasy adventure aspects.
(contains violence, moderate romance with mild sensuality, and occasional swearing)
AUTHOR KENLEY DAVIDSON
IN DARKNESS FORGED
For fans of Elise Kova and Sylvia Mercedes, this dark and thrilling romantic fantasy will hold you captive till the very last page!
In a land of darkness and deadly adversaries…
He might just be the deadliest one of all.
Burdened by a debt she can never hope to repay, Aislin is sent by her cruel lord to the mysterious land of Dunmaren, where she must beg the night elves for a single favor. The shapeshifters demand a steep price, but Aislin will do anything to save her family—even travel alone into a nightmare forest filled with monsters.
Except she isn't quite alone...
Talyn's magic is as deadly as his blades, but he lives only for his chance at revenge. Betrayed and imprisoned by his night elf kin, his only hope of freedom is to serve as guide and bodyguard to a human woman foolish enough to enter the perilous depths of the Darkspring.
Talyn wants nothing to do with a weak and useless human. In Dunmaren, only the strong survive, and soft things are easily broken. But Aislin defies his expectations at every turn, and what he once believed to be weakness might just prove the key to their survival.
In the shadows beneath the earth, an unlikely bond is forged between the renegade night elf and the fiercely determined human. But few ever return from the depths, and it will take more than stubbornness and steel to defeat the enemy that awaits them at the very heart of the Darkspring.
In Darkness Forged is a standalone night elf romance with a sweet, slow-burn love story and a happily-ever-after ending. If you loved A Deal With the Elf King or The Bridge Kingdom, don’t miss this swoon-worthy tale of sacrifice, redemption, and revenge.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Kenley Davidson’s In Darkness Forged and its series offer a rich, character-driven fantasy perfect for readers who enjoy stories of personal growth, loyalty, and light romance woven into a high-stakes adventure. The world-building is immersive, featuring elemental magic, political intrigue, and a slow-burn plot that rewards patient readers. The main characters wrestle with meaningful challenges—both internal and external—making the series resonate emotionally without ever being overwhelming. It’s a great fit for both teens and adults who appreciate thoughtful fantasy with a strong moral compass and relatable protagonists. As far as content goes, In Darkness Forged is clean and family-friendly. There is no sexual content, and romantic elements remain sweet and subtle, focused more on emotional connection and trust than anything physical. Violence is present in the context of battle and conflict, but it’s not gratuitous or graphic. The series is an excellent choice for families looking for a wholesome yet exciting fantasy read, full of heart, hope, and well-developed characters who rise to meet their destiny.
(slow-burn YA romance with mild romantic tension and kissing, moderate violence, little to no swearing)
AUTHOR JENNIFER ANNE DAVIS
THE QUEEN'S CROWN (BOOK 1)
Eighteen-year-old Princess Sabine Ludwig of Bakley thought her biggest problem was finding a man remotely interesting to dabble with while trying to fill her days with something other than knitting or drinking tea. But when her dear sister is brutally murdered in a foreign kingdom a week before she’s to be married, Sabine suddenly wishes for boring, ordinary days again.
Seeking retribution, Sabine decides to take her sister’s place and marry the mysterious king of Lynk. It’s the only way she can hunt down and find the killer. It’s the only way she can get revenge. When she finds the king far more appealing than she’d intended, it becomes difficult to keep her wits about her and remember why she’s there.
Thrown into a world of lies, power struggles, and seduction, Sabine must learn to navigate through the foreign kingdom’s dangerous court as she seeks her sister’s killer. The closer she gets to discovering who it is, the more she questions who she can trust—including herself.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Queen’s Crown by Jennifer Anne Davis could be a great choice for readers who enjoy clean young adult fantasy filled with royal intrigue, political maneuvering, and strong-willed heroines. The romantic subplot is sweet and slow-burn, involving some kissing and emotional tension, but it remains age-appropriate and free of explicit sexual content. The book also promotes themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and personal growth, making it a meaningful and engaging read for teens and families who enjoy immersive fantasy without pushing boundaries too far. Its accessible language and quick pacing also make it appealing to both reluctant and avid readers. On the other hand, families sensitive to violence or darker storylines should be aware that the series includes some intense moments, including murder, assassination attempts, and political betrayal. While these scenes are not excessively graphic, they play a significant role in the plot and tone. Readers expecting a lighthearted fairy-tale fantasy might find the court politics and darker stakes more serious than anticipated. That said, the book handles these elements thoughtfully and with restraint, so most families comfortable with mild action and suspense in fantasy stories are unlikely to find objectionable material.
(a clean, family-friendly book with no explicit sexual content, minimal to no violence, and no swearing)
AUTHOR KRISTY DIXON
MORE THAN ONCE UPON A TIME
Olivia doesn't believe in happily-ever-afters. Tales like that only happen in children’s storybooks. The real world is a harsh, unforgiving place where true love is fiction—Or so she thought.
A chance encounter with a meddling woman catapults Olivia into a whimsical fairy-tale realm, with her playing the part of the reluctant protagonist. Trapped in a land of make-believe, Olivia must navigate each story in her search for a way out.
Within the chapters, she meets Jerron, a fellow romance-jaded captive whose belief in love has dwindled with every scripted romance. Bound by their desire to escape, they team up and discover happiness may be the key to returning home.
Somewhere, among the pages of their adventure, the connection between the pair deepens and their views on love and destiny begin to shift. As they attempt to rewrite a new ending, they come face-to-face with a malevolent darkness lurking within the realm.
Every fairy tale has its villain, and this one seeks to corrupt them… or kill them.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
More Than Once Upon a Time by Kristy Dixon is an excellent choice for families seeking a wholesome, engaging read suitable for a wide range of ages. The story offers a clean narrative free from explicit sexual content, graphic violence, or strong language, making it appropriate for younger readers and enjoyable for adults alike. Its themes likely revolve around friendship, personal growth, and perhaps a touch of romance, all presented in a manner that's accessible and relatable. The book's tone and content suggest it's designed to be both entertaining and meaningful without delving into mature or controversial topics. For families who appreciate stories that can be shared across generations without concern for inappropriate material, this book fits the bill. Its likely emphasis on positive values and character development provides not only an enjoyable reading experience but also opportunities for discussion about important life lessons. Whether read aloud together or individually, More Than Once Upon a Time offers a narrative that's both captivating and appropriate, making it a valuable addition to any family's bookshelf.
(contains mild fantasy violence, light romantic elements without sexual content, and minimal to no swearing)
AUTHOR SARAH BETH DURST
ENCHANTED IVY
What Lily Carter wants most in the world is to attend Princeton University just like her grandfather. When she finally visits the campus, Grandpa surprises her: She has been selected to take the top-secret Legacy Test. Passing means automatic acceptance to Princeton. Sweet!
Lily's test is to find the Ivy Key. But what is she looking for? Where does she start? As she searches, Lily is joined by Tye, a cute college boy with orange and black hair who says he's her guard. That's weird. But things get seriously strange when a gargoyle talks to her. He tells her that there are two Princetons—the ordinary one and a magical one—and the Key opens the gate between them. But there are more secrets that surround Lily. Worse secrets.
When Lily enters the magical Princeton, she uncovers old betrayals and new dangers, and a chance at her dream becomes a fight for her life. Soon Lily is caught in a power struggle between two worlds, with her family at its center. In a place where Knights slay monsters, boys are were-tigers, and dragons might be out for blood, Lily will need all of her ingenuity and courage—and a little magic—to unite the worlds and unlock the secrets of her past and her future.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Enchanted Ivy by Sarah Beth Durst would be a great choice for readers and families looking for a fantasy adventure that's exciting but still very age-appropriate. The story blends real-world college life with magical creatures and secret societies, offering plenty of imagination without diving into anything too dark or explicit. Romance is present but very light and sweet, without any sexual content—more of a budding crush than anything mature. The fantasy violence is mild and never graphic, and there's little to no swearing, making it a safe and engaging pick for teens who love a magical twist. On the flip side, readers who are looking for intense action, deep romance, or darker themes might find Enchanted Ivy a little lighter than they’d like. Its tone stays firmly in the "fun and adventurous" lane, without heavy emotional intensity or complex moral struggles. But for families wanting a clean, whimsical fantasy that sparks imagination without pushing boundaries, Enchanted Ivy is a wonderful and safe choice—especially for readers who are comfortably within the teenage years and love stories about discovering secret worlds.
(contains romance, behind door sex, some violence and moderate swearing)
AUTHOR SHELBY ELIZABETH
LADY OF DRAGONS (PART 1)
You will be bound, dragon and human.
Finlay McDonough wants nothing more than to be a Dragon Knight: a warrior bound with a dragon partner, intent on ridding the kingdom of its dragon-killing monarchy. Well, she might want one thing just a bit more … Evander, her childhood friend, now keeper of the dragon sanctuary. Scouting with Evander one day, Finlay’s attempt to save a dragon goes horribly wrong, and she inadvertently ties her fate to the dragon’s—their souls bind, lending Finlay powers like those of the Mages the Knights are sworn to destroy.
After passing the trial to train as a Knight, Finlay discovers a devastating truth about a beloved dragon. To save them, she’ll need to risk her dream of becoming a true Knight, her chance at a happily-ever-after with Evander . . . and maybe her very identity.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Fans of fantasy romance may enjoy Lady of Dragons for its mix of adventure, dragon lore, and slow-burn romantic tension. The story follows strong heroines and fierce dragon companions, offering themes of courage, loyalty, and self-discovery that appeal to readers who love magic-filled worlds and emotional storytelling. Its tone leans adventurous and heartfelt, creating an engaging escape for those who enjoy character-driven fantasy. However, parents should know that the book includes explicit sexual scenes, some alcohol use, fantasy violence, and moderate profanity, which could be objectionable for younger readers. While the romantic and action elements are central, the mature content places it closer to a new adult audience than traditional young adult fare.
(includes romantic elements, moderate violence, and occasional strong language, with no explicit sexual content)
AUTHOR KELSEY FORSTER
BURNING HEIR
Step into a world of elite students, where six realms vie to claim their rightful title as heirs. Amidst the competition, trials, and rivalries, some students seek to steal those legacies, aiming to be the first in their bloodline to rule.
Twenty-one-year-old Severyn Blanche is the last sibling of five to keep her family among the powerful list of rulers in Verdonia when she’s invited to the Serpent Academy to claim her title as her father’s heir, amidst his shattering, frozen wards that threaten her home realm becoming a barren land. Failure is not an option.
Her enemies must become her friends, and impressing the powerful Serpents may be more difficult with the malevolent history her last name carries. How far will one go to achieve greatness when a legacy awaits?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Burning Heir by Kelsey Forster may be a strong choice for readers who enjoy young adult fantasy with an edge of mystery and emotional depth. The story is set in a magical academy and follows Severyn Blanche, a determined heroine who must face rigorous magical trials to secure her family’s legacy. The book offers action, intrigue, and a touch of romance, all while exploring themes like power dynamics, loyalty, and healing. For families who value stories with strong female leads and character growth, this novel delivers a compelling, plot-driven experience without gratuitous content. The romantic aspects are present but not graphic, staying well within the bounds of what’s typically considered appropriate for mature young adult readers. That said, Burning Heir may not be the best fit for all families, particularly those who are cautious about darker emotional themes. The story includes references to past sexual abuse and substance abuse, as well as moderate fantasy violence and occasional strong language. While these elements are not excessively graphic, they are central enough to the characters’ backstories and emotional arcs that sensitive readers may find them unsettling. Parents or guardians who prefer to avoid books with trauma-related themes might consider previewing the content or discussing it with their reader beforehand. Overall, the book is thoughtfully written and engaging, but it does venture into mature territory that may not suit all households.
(mild romance, brief non-explicit sexual content, fantasy violence, and occasional swearing)
AUTHOR NEIL GAIMAN
STARDUST
An enchanting fairy tale by master storyteller Neil Gaiman, full of unexpected adventures, true love, whimsy, wonder, and plenty of magic.
Tristran Thorn will do anything to win the cold heart of beautiful Victoria Forester—even fetch her the star they watch fall from the night sky. But to do so, he must enter the unexplored lands on the other side of the ancient wall that gives their tiny village its name. Beyond that stone barrier, Tristran learns, lies Faerie...and the most exhilarating adventure of the young man's life.
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Neil Gaiman comes a tale of the dark and miraculous—a quest for true love and the utterly impossible.
The book that inspired the hit motion picture starring Michelle Pfeiffer, Sienna Miller, Claire Danes, and Robert DeNiro!
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Neil Gaiman's Stardust is a magical, enchanting novel that combines elements of fantasy, adventure, and romance in a way that will captivate a wide range of readers. The story follows young Tristan Thorn, who embarks on a quest to find a fallen star in the magical land of Stormhold. Along the way, he encounters witches, pirates, and various mystical creatures. Gaiman's masterful storytelling weaves a world that feels both whimsical and profound, exploring themes of love, destiny, and the balance between good and evil. Its fairytale-like atmosphere makes it a wonderful choice for readers who enjoy imaginative and character-driven stories. While Stardust contains a certain level of romance, it is handled in a tasteful way, with no explicit sexual content. The love story is sweet and adds depth to the plot without overshadowing the adventure or magic of the story. There are a few scenes with mild violence, as characters are involved in some intense confrontations, but nothing graphic or overly disturbing. The narrative also touches on themes of self-discovery and personal growth, making it appropriate for readers of various ages who appreciate deeper reflections on life wrapped in a fantastical adventure. Gaiman's unique style and the magical atmosphere make Stardust a wonderful read for families who enjoy stories filled with wonder and heart.
(moderate violence, mild swearing, alcohol use, and sensual [but not explicit] romance)
AUTHOR STEPHANIE GARBER
CARAVAL (BOOK 1)
Welcome, welcome to CARAVAL, Stephanie Garber’s enchanting, NEW YORK TIMES bestselling fantasy debut about two sisters swept up in a mysterious competition filled with magic, heartbreak, and danger
Scarlett has never left the tiny island where she and her beloved sister, Tella, live with their powerful and cruel father. Now Scarlett’s father has arranged a marriage for her, and Scarlett thinks her dreams of seeing Caraval, the far-away, once-a-year performance where the audience participates in the show, are over.
But this year, Scarlett's long-dreamt-of invitation finally arrives. With the help of a mysterious sailor, Tella whisks Scarlett away to attend. Only, as soon as they arrive, Tella is kidnapped by Caraval’s mastermind organizer, Legend. It turns out that this season's Caraval revolves around Tella, and whoever finds her first is the winner.
Scarlett has been told that everything that happens during Caraval is only an elaborate performance. But whether Caraval is real or not, she must find Tella before the five nights of the game are over, and her sister disappears forever.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Caraval books offer a richly imaginative fantasy with high-stakes intrigue—two sisters escape an abusive father and enter a magical game filled with mystery and romance. The romantic tension is emotionally charged, with frequent passionate kisses and sensual undertones, but no graphic sex; there’s an attempted rape, plus power dynamics that some readers may find concerning, yet the story weaves in themes of self-sacrifice, redemption, and healing from trauma. On the flip side, parents might worry about the darker content: physical abuse by the father, mentions of suicide, drunkenness, kidnapping, stabbings, and blood magic. There’s also use of some mature language and underaged drinking, which can make it less “safe” if you prefer very light YA fare—but if your family’s okay with emotionally intense fantasy and complex moral issues, this trilogy delivers a deeply emotional, redemptive arc.
(contains mild romance, some violence, minimal swearing, and no sexual content)
AUTHOR STEPHANIE GARBER
ONCE UPON A BROKEN HEART (BOOK 1)
#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER!
ONCE UPON A BROKEN HEART marks the launch of a new series from Stephanie Garber about love, curses, and the lengths that people will go to for happily ever after
For as long as she can remember, Evangeline Fox has believed in true love and happy endings . . . until she learns that the love of her life will marry another.
Desperate to stop the wedding and to heal her wounded heart, Evangeline strikes a deal with the charismatic, but wicked, Prince of Hearts. In exchange for his help, he asks for three kisses, to be given at the time and place of his choosing.
But after Evangeline’s first promised kiss, she learns that bargaining with an immortal is a dangerous game — and that the Prince of Hearts wants far more from her than she’d pledged. He has plans for Evangeline, plans that will either end in the greatest happily ever after, or the most exquisite tragedy.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber is an enchanting and fast-paced fantasy novel that will captivate readers with its intricate world-building and gripping plot. The story follows Evangeline Fox as she ventures into the dangerous and magical realm of immortals to seek help in changing her fate. The book is filled with magic, suspense, and romance, making it perfect for readers who enjoy adventurous tales with a bit of mystery and danger. Garber’s writing style creates an immersive world full of wonder and tension, with a plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. In terms of content, Once Upon a Broken Heart is a great choice for families looking for a clean, engaging fantasy series. While there are romantic themes throughout the story, they focus more on emotional connections and the complexities of love rather than explicit content. There are no graphic sexual scenes, and the romance is subtle yet compelling, making it suitable for both younger readers and older teens. The book does feature some perilous situations and moments of intense emotion, but the violence is not overly graphic. Overall, it offers an exciting and magical adventure that can be enjoyed by a wide range of readers.
(contains clean romance, no explicit content, mild peril/violence, and no notable swearing)
AUTHOR JESSICA DAY GEORGE
SUN AND MOON, ICE AND SNOW
From bestselling author Jessica Day George comes a rich new fantasy, based on a Norwegian fairy tale, set in a land of eternal winter.
Blessed--or cursed--with an ability to understand animals, the Lass (as she's known to her family) has always been seen as strange. And when an isbjorn (polar bear) seeks her out, and promises that her family will become rich if only the Lass will accompany him to his castle, she doesn't hesitate.
But the bear is not what he seems, nor is his castle, which is made of ice and inhabited by a silent staff of servants. Only a grueling journey on the backs of the four winds will reveal the truth: the bear is really a prince who's been enchanted by a troll queen, and the Lass must come up with a way to free him before he's forced to marry a troll princess.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow is a clean, Nordic-fairy-tale retelling with a sweet, understated romance and no explicit content, making it a very comfortable pick for most young readers. What makes this book such a good fit for families is how firmly it stays in “classic fairy tale” territory—there’s no swearing, no sensual content, and the romance is more tender than intense. The main concerns parents might note are a few moments of danger, hints of darker magic, and some mild tension involving creatures and curses, but none of it is graphic or lingering. Overall, it’s the kind of story that feels cozy and adventurous at the same time, offering plenty of mythic atmosphere without pushing into anything that could be considered inappropriate.
(slow-burn love and kissing only, no explicit sex or swearing, and moderate peril from a plague and political tension)
AUTHOR K. S. GERLT
THE STARBORN PRINCE (BOOK 1)
In Astoria, the Kingdom of the Stars, every subject may have one, single wish granted by their king. But as the population swells with refugees and a deadly plague sweeps through the streets, there are far too many wishes for any one person to grant.
Prince Sterling saw his peoples’ needs long before the plague arrived, and so established his own guild, Hyperion, to aid them. He secretly stole his father’s wish-granting amulet, and as Guildmaster Orion, he helped as many as he could, eventually gathering a crew of misfits for guild members, who all pledged themselves to his service, in gratitude for all he had done for them. The moment the king learns of his actions, however, his time as Orion will be over.
Astrid was the first. The first person Orion saved, the first to pledge herself to him and his cause—despite his insistence on keeping his true identity secret, even from her. But as she watches Orion growing inexplicably closer with an alluring but rebellious refugee, and as a mysterious illness leaves tragedy in its wake, she can no longer refrain from asking the questions that have plagued her for so long.
Who is Orion? How is he able to save those stricken with the plague, that no herbalist, including herself, has any hope of healing? And what is the price that must be paid for every wish that is granted?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Starborn Prince by K. S. Gerlt is a wholesome and emotionally rich YA fantasy that blends slow-burn romance with a gripping tale of royalty, plague, and personal growth. The story centers on a reluctant prince navigating responsibility and destiny, set against the backdrop of a kingdom on the brink of collapse. The romantic elements are gentle and appropriate, involving heartfelt connection and light physical affection (such as kissing), with no explicit sexual content or swearing. Readers who enjoy clean fantasy stories with compelling worldbuilding, emotional stakes, and strong character dynamics will likely find this a rewarding and age-appropriate choice. For more sensitive readers or those seeking purely lighthearted content, it’s worth noting that the book does contain serious themes, including a deadly plague, political unrest, and moments of danger. The peril is more emotional and atmospheric than graphically violent, but the tension can be intense at times. These elements are handled with care and maturity, offering opportunities for thoughtful reflection on duty, sacrifice, and hope. Overall, The Starborn Prince is a good fit for families seeking a clean, engaging fantasy that balances romance, action, and depth without pushing into graphic or explicit territory.
(contains mild romance, brief innuendo, fantasy violence, and occasional mild swearing)
Editor's
Favorite
AUTHOR WILLIAM GOLDMAN
THE PRINCESS BRIDE
William Goldman's modern fantasy classic is a simple, exceptional story about quests—for riches, revenge, power, and, of course, true love—that's thrilling and timeless.
Anyone who lived through the 1980s may find it impossible—inconceivable, even—to equate The Princess Bride with anything other than the sweet, celluloid romance of Westley and Buttercup, but the film is only a fraction of the ingenious storytelling you'll find in these pages. Rich in character and satire, the novel is set in 1941 and framed cleverly as an “abridged” retelling of a centuries-old tale set in the fabled country of Florin that's home to “Beasts of all natures and descriptions. Pain. Death. Brave men. Coward men. Strongest men. Chases. Escapes. Lies. Truths. Passions.”
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Princess Bride by William Goldman is a classic tale that combines adventure, romance, humor, and fantasy in a way that appeals to readers of all ages. The story follows the journey of Westley, a farm boy turned swashbuckling hero, as he rescues his true love, Buttercup, from a forced marriage and a host of other challenges. With its mix of wit, action, and heart, The Princess Bride has something for everyone—whether it’s the sword fights, clever dialogue, or the endearing characters. The novel also has a unique narrative structure, with the fictionalized "author's note" that adds a layer of humor and depth to the story. This blend of action and comedy makes the book a delightful read for both teens and adults. In terms of content, The Princess Bride is a good choice for families. While there are a few instances of mild violence, such as sword fights and some darker themes (like the villain's sinister plans), they are presented in a fantastical context that is not graphic or disturbing. There is a romantic storyline between Westley and Buttercup, but the sexual content is minimal, with any physical intimacy kept to a very gentle and implied level. The focus is more on their emotional connection and the challenges they face together. The humor, light-heartedness, and adventurous spirit make it an ideal pick for family reading or for those seeking a magical, timeless story with rich characters and memorable moments.
(sweet romance with little spice, clean language)
AUTHOR TARA GRACE
MOUNTAIN OF DRAGONS AND SACRIFICE (BOOK 1)
It’s a tale as old as myth and legends: the village maiden sacrificed to a monster.
Every year, Nessa’s village sacrifices a maiden to the dragon in the mountain. If they don’t, the dragon will sweep down from his lair and destroy them all.
When Nessa is chosen to be that year’s sacrifice, she’s prepared to be eaten, as much as anyone can prepare for such a thing. Instead, she finds herself swept away to a world of dragons, gnomes, and fae creatures beyond her imagination, leaving her with more questions than answers. If the maiden’s purpose isn’t to be eaten, then what is the dragon’s reason for the sacrifices? And why is the dragon nothing like what she had been told he would be?
And, most frightening of all, what would happen if she lit the candle and looked upon the dragon’s face?
Loosely inspired by the myth of Psyche and Eros, this humorous romantasy features dragon shifters, quirky fae, and swoony no spice romance, perfect for fans of Sylvia Mercedes, Kenley Davidson, and K.M. Shea!
Mountain of Dragons and Sacrifice is book 1 in the Sacrificed Hearts multi-author series, a collection of stand-alone fantasy romances inspired by monsters of legend and packed with strong heroines, swoony heroes, and sacrificial themes.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Tara Grace’s Mountain of Dragons and Sacrifice is an exciting fantasy adventure that will captivate readers who enjoy thrilling quests, mythical creatures, and complex characters. The story is set in a richly built world filled with dragons, ancient mysteries, and a battle between light and darkness. It’s a tale of bravery, friendship, and sacrifice as the characters embark on a dangerous journey to protect their realm. With themes of loyalty, courage, and the struggle between good and evil, this book can engage readers of all ages, especially those interested in epic fantasy tales. In terms of content, Mountain of Dragons and Sacrifice is family-friendly, making it a great choice for younger readers and those seeking an adventurous yet accessible story. While there is some violence related to the battles and challenges the characters face, it is not graphic or overly intense, keeping the focus on the emotional and thematic aspects of the story. There is no sexual content to be concerned about, as the relationships in the book are centered around trust, sacrifice, and the bond of friendship. This makes it a suitable option for families, as it offers an exciting and immersive world without inappropriate themes. The book's combination of adventure and heart makes it an enjoyable and safe read for readers looking to dive into a fantastic world of dragons and heroism.
(violence, some swearing, mild sensual kissing, mention of adults drinking)
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AUTHOR TAMARA GRANTHAM
DREAM THIEF (BOOK 1)
Visiting Faythander is a nasty business. Forget the fairies and unicorns, most people come back with lost memories and mental problems. Olive Kennedy knows. She's the therapist who treats patients suffering from Faythander's side effects. Despite her empty bank account, she takes pride in her job as Houston's only Fairy World medical doctor. She's never failed to cure a client—until now.
Traveling back to Faythander wasn't on Olive's to-do list. But she has no choice. The fate of both Earth and Fairy depends on her ability to stop an ancient being called the Dreamthief. To complicate matters, she may be losing her heart to someone who can't love her in return. Saving the world, she can handle. Falling in love—not so much.
As if battling the forces of evil wasn't difficult enough…
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Tamara Grantham’s Spellweaver is an enchanting fantasy novel that offers readers a spellbinding adventure full of magic, intriguing characters, and rich world-building. The story follows a protagonist who is drawn into a world of sorcery and magical creatures, where she must confront her own powers and navigate complex relationships. The book is filled with elements of fantasy that will captivate fans of magical realms, ancient prophecies, and character growth. It's a story that is likely to engage both young adult and adult readers who appreciate a well-crafted magical world that also deals with themes of self-discovery, responsibility, and courage. When it comes to content, Spellweaver is a family-friendly choice. The book focuses on adventure, friendship, and the struggles that come with accepting one's abilities and responsibilities. There is no explicit sexual content, with the focus being more on the magic and challenges the characters face in their journey. There are some moments of emotional tension and mild romance, but they are handled with sensitivity and do not dominate the narrative. The action is exciting, but not overly violent, making it suitable for readers who enjoy fantasy without the heavy themes of graphic content. Overall, Spellweaver is an excellent option for families looking for a captivating and wholesome fantasy series.