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(some romance and supernatural violence)
AUTHOR NIKKI JEFFORD
SPELLCASTER WILD CARD (BOOK 1)
In a world where fame, power, and danger collide, one teenage girl steps into the game of her life. After tragedy shatters her world, Haylee Hutchins enters Spellcaster—a deadly competition of magic and monsters broadcast to millions. Winning could change everything… but surviving means guarding her heart as fiercely as her life. Because behind the cameras, alliances burn hot, secrets cut deep, and one rival might just become something more.
Lights. Camera. Immortality. Welcome to Spellcaster.
Winning the show means living forever. It is the golden ticket to fame, fortune, and a place among the vampire elite.
Being remade isn’t on my wish list. I like being me, and with nearly a million online followers, it's working. My parents and big sister are the do-gooders in our family who want to make the world a fair and just place for all humans and paranormal creatures. I just want to finish high school and keep doing what I do best—sharing hair and beauty tips while discussing Spellcaster and how the show’s vampire judge Malachi Rayne is the hottest male on the planet.
Then, life as I know it ends. There are evil forces who will stop at nothing to maintain world dominance—indefinitely.
It’s hard to care when I’ve become dead inside and out.
After my family is violently attacked, the host of Spellcaster insists I audition for Season 13. For the first time in the show’s history, they want to represent every species of paranormals. That’s me now. Not human. Not vampire. Not the class of creature anyone EVER cheers for.
This season’s prize is power beyond anyone’s imagination. It is the kind of reward that contestants and their sponsors would kill to possess.
Let the other contestants and judges underestimate me. They can gossip all they want about the hotshot wizard and the alpha werewolf behaving as though I’m another prize to be won. And if Coach Malachi can't handle a bold influencer with abilities, then he can suck it. I preferred watching him from the other side of the screen. He's about to discover that Haylee Hutchins is a force to be reckoned with. The whole world will.
Someone thought they could silence my family for good. Instead, they created a monster. I’m still here, and I am much harder to kill.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Spellcaster Wild Card is a fun underdog story: Haylee Hutchins is thrust into a high‑stakes “Spellcaster” competition where different paranormal creatures (vamps, witches, zombies, etc.) battle for supremacy. There’s a budding romance, social media drama, and a real sense of “win or die” tension, along with mystery and power struggles. Haylee’s journey has a redemptive thread as she learns to use her magic, protect her loved ones, and challenge a system stacked against her species. On the other hand, parents might raise concerns about the violence: her family is violently attacked, there’s competition sabotage, and there are strong species‑tensions that lead to hate-crime–style conflicts. The romance includes several instances of sensual "hints". Also, supernatural creatures and prejudice bring in mature themes like bigotry and identity. If you are comfortable with fantasy violence, moral complexity, and some romance this could be a compelling but not overly graphic read—but it may be less appropriate for readers who prefer lighter or more innocent fantasy.
(One f-bomb, no sex, only kissing)
AUTHOR EMMA HAMM
OF GOBLINS AND GOLD (BOOK 1)
To save her sister, she must beat a goblin at his own game.
Freya knows the sound of goblin bells. She knows to move to the side of the road and let them pass. Never buy any of their wares. And above all else, never make a deal with the monstrous beasts. But when her sister takes a necklace and is kidnapped, Freya knows there is no other choice.
She must journey to the realm of the fae where the Goblin King himself has stolen her sister. Once there, she must perform four tasks to save the only family she has left.
The Goblin King won't make this easy, however. He always seems one step ahead of her. To defeat him, she'll have to put everything on the line. Even her heart.
Fans of Sarah J. Maas and Ursula K. Le Guin will be left guessing at every turn!
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Of Goblins and Gold by Emma Hamm is an enchanting fantasy novel that captures the magic and excitement of classic fairy tales while offering a fresh perspective. The story weaves together adventure, mythology, and character-driven drama as it follows a young protagonist navigating a world of goblins, hidden treasures, and magical creatures. Readers who love stories set in magical realms with a sense of wonder and danger will find this book both engaging and immersive. The plot is rich with intrigue and emotional growth, making it a captivating choice for readers of all ages. In terms of content, Of Goblins and Gold is suitable for family reading as it avoids explicit violence or sexual content. The book does include moments of peril and emotional intensity, but the themes remain focused on bravery, friendship, and self-discovery. There are hints of romance, but they are soft and woven naturally into the character development, making it an appropriate choice for younger audiences while still engaging for older readers. Overall, Of Goblins and Gold offers an adventurous yet wholesome experience, filled with imaginative storytelling that will appeal to families looking for a captivating fantasy series without mature content.
(mild kissing and emotional romance with one implied fade‑to‑black scene between married characters, moderate non‑graphic violence and trauma, very mild swearing)
Editor's
Favorite
AUTHOR AMY HARMON
THE BIRD AND THE SWORD (BOOK 1)
Swallow, daughter, pull them in, those words that sit upon your lips. Lock them deep inside your soul, hide them ‘til they’ve time to grow. Close your mouth upon the power, curse not, cure not, ‘til the hour. You won’t speak and you won’t tell, you won’t call on heaven or hell. You will learn and you will thrive. Silence, daughter. Stay alive. The day my mother was killed, she told my father I wouldn’t speak again, and she told him if I died, he would die too. Then she predicted the king would sell his soul and lose his son to the sky. My father has a claim to the throne, and he is waiting in the shadows for all of my mother’s words to come to pass. He wants desperately to be king, and I just want to be free. But freedom will require escape, and I’m a prisoner of my mother’s curse and my father’s greed. I can’t speak or make a sound, and I can’t wield a sword or beguile a king. In a land purged of enchantment, love might be the only magic left, and who could ever love . . . a bird?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Bird and the Sword by Amy Harmon is a beautifully written fantasy novel that blends lyrical prose, magic, and romance in a story about a voiceless girl with hidden power. For families or readers who appreciate clean storytelling with emotional depth, this book could be a great choice. The romance between the main characters is tender and respectful, with one fade-to-black scene that’s tastefully implied rather than graphically described. There's no explicit sexual content, which makes it feel appropriate for readers who are ready for romantic themes without venturing into mature territory. The violence, while present due to the nature of the fantasy setting and the conflict between kingdoms, is not excessively graphic and is usually grounded in the emotional stakes of the story. That said, some parents might want to be aware of the book’s heavier emotional elements—such as trauma, manipulation, and personal loss—which, while handled with care, could feel intense for more sensitive readers. The themes of power, oppression, and self-discovery are deeply explored, which might make it more suitable for readers who are emotionally mature enough to engage with these ideas. There’s also some mild swearing, but it’s infrequent and not central to the tone of the book. Overall, the series offers a rich, clean fantasy experience, but its complexity and emotional themes may be better appreciated by readers who are a little older or particularly thoughtful.
(some sensual content, moderate violence, and no strong swearing)
Editor's
Favorite
AUTHOR AMY HARMON
THE FIRST GIRL CHILD (BOOK 1)
From the New York Times bestselling author comes a breathtaking fantasy of a cursed kingdom, warring clans, and unexpected salvation.
Bayr of Saylok, bastard son of a powerful and jealous chieftain, is haunted by the curse once leveled by his dying mother. Bartered, abandoned, and rarely loved, she plagued the land with her words: From this day forward, there will be no daughters in Saylok.
Raised among the Keepers at Temple Hill, Bayr is gifted with inhuman strength. But he’s also blessed with an all-too-human heart that beats with one purpose: to protect Alba, the first girl child born in nearly two decades and the salvation for a country at risk.
Now the fate of Saylok lies with Alba and Bayr, whose bond grows deeper with every whisper of coming chaos. Charged with battling the enemies of their people, both within and without, Bayr is fueled further by the love of a girl who has defied the scourge of Saylok.
What Bayr and Alba don’t know is that they each threaten the king, a greedy man who built his throne on lies, murder, and betrayal. There is only one way to defend their land from the corruption that has overtaken it. By breaking the curse, they could defeat the king…but they could also destroy themselves.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Amy Harmon’s The First Girl Child blends myth, fantasy, and romance in a way that many readers find compelling. The story centers around a curse, forbidden love, and characters wrestling with destiny, making it rich in themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and identity. Romance is central to the narrative, with some sensuality included, though the intimate moments are described more with emotional weight than explicit detail. The book’s style leans toward lyrical and thoughtful, so families who appreciate myth-inspired fantasy with romance at its core may find it a rewarding choice. That said, parents may want to be aware that the book does include some sensual content that fades to black before becoming explicit. There are also moments of violence tied to battles, bloodshed, and the darker aspects of the Viking-inspired setting. While the language avoids heavy swearing, the mix of sensuality and violence might make this story feel less suitable for younger or more sensitive readers. Families will want to weigh whether those elements align with their comfort levels.
(scenes of violence, some dark and intense moments, and limited mild language, but no explicit sexual scenes)
AUTHOR MEGAN HASKELL
THE LAST DESCENDANT (BOOK 1)
Readers' Favorite Bronze Winner, IAN Book of the Year Finalist, and BRAG Medallion Honoree!
A woman torn between honor and survival...
Raised in a realm where humans are no better than slaves, Rie Lhethannien has struggled for decades to earn a meager post in the High Court messenger service. Even training as an elite fighter isn’t enough to earn the respect she craves. Scorned by the high elves who rely on her loyalty, Rie’s closest allies are the fierce carnivorous pixies who travel by her side.
When she’s attacked on a routine delivery by assassins from the enemy Shadow Realm, Rie’s martial prowess keeps her alive…and frames her as a traitor. Facing execution at the hand of an unmerciful high elf king, Rie must forsake her oaths and flee into enemy lands to prove her innocence. The secrets she uncovers may threaten more than her honor or even her life...for war is looming in the nine faerie realms.
Sanyare: The Last Descendant is the first book in The Sanyare Chronicles, a fast-paced dark fantasy adventure. If you like kick-butt heroines and action-packed fantasy filled with mythological creatures, then you’ll love the first novel in Megan Haskell’s debut series.
Start your journey across the nine faerie realms today!
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Megan Haskell's The Last Descendant and its series offer an exciting mix of fantasy, mythology, and adventure that makes it an engaging choice for readers of various ages. Set in a world where ancient myths and supernatural beings exist alongside modern society, the story follows the protagonist as she navigates a complex world of magical legacies and dark secrets. The narrative is fast-paced and filled with action, making it a thrilling experience for readers who enjoy fantasy and mythology. It also explores themes of identity, family, and destiny, allowing readers to reflect on personal growth and the importance of choices in shaping one's future. In terms of content, The Last Descendant maintains a level of maturity that is appropriate for older teens and adults. There are romantic and action-packed scenes, but they are presented in a way that keeps the focus on the adventure and character development. While there is some mild romantic tension, the series does not delve into explicit or graphic sexual content. Instead, it prioritizes the characters' emotional growth, the unfolding mysteries, and their interactions with the world around them. This makes the series a good choice for families looking for an engaging and thought-provoking fantasy series that offers excitement without focusing heavily on adult themes.
(romantic tension, mild peril, and magical intrigue)
AUTHOR EVERLY HAYWOOD
PEARLS OF SALT AND SACRIFICE
To save a kingdom, she must sacrifice herself…and her heart.
When Princess Reva seeks a trade alliance, she doesn't realize her hand in marriage may be required to save her people from starvation. But with more than one suitor fighting for her hand, her plans are thrust into chaos when there's a fatal attack in the cove.
After she is ripped away from negotiations against her will, loyalties are tested as rumors of a deadly magic pearl--and the constant meddling of a determined sea elf and a dastardly pirate captain--put Reva into an impossible position.
When a monstrous creature attacks her homeland, can this swashbuckling princess solve the mystery of the forbidden Death Pearl before everyone she loves is dragged beneath the sea?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Pearls of Salt and Sacrifice by Everly Haywood is a romantic fantasy that combines magical intrigue, adventure, and complex character dynamics. The story follows characters navigating high-stakes situations and emotional challenges, with romance woven naturally into the plot. The romantic elements are central but focus on emotional tension, attraction, and developing relationships rather than explicit sexual content, making it appealing to readers who enjoy character-driven fantasy with heartfelt romance. Its imaginative worldbuilding and layered plot provide an engaging experience for fans of dark or morally complex fantasy. Parents may find some content concerning due to the emotional intensity, perilous situations, and morally complex choices faced by characters. There is romantic tension, occasional mild swearing, and moments of conflict or danger that could feel intense for sensitive readers. While there is no explicit sexual content, the combination of romance, suspense, and magical peril may make this series better suited for readers comfortable with emotionally charged and adventurous narratives.
(contains mild romance, some fantasy violence, and thematic elements of grief and identity)
AUTHOR ELISABETH J. HOBBES
DANCE WITH THE FAE (BOOK 1)
1919 May Day
Kit Arton-Price should be celebrating. It's his engagement party and, unlike many young men of his generation, he survived The Great War. Whilst his fiancée, Adelaide, is dancing with one of their guests, the enigmatic Mr Wilde, the scars on Kit's face bear the heavy toll of battle – and the scars on his heart bear a secret he's been forced to carry in silence.
In the morning, Adelaide cannot be woken and the village doctor declares it's the mystifying 'Sleeping Sickness' – an unexplainable epidemic affecting society.
But there is more to this sickness than first appears and it's not long before Kit is lured into a strange new realm. One of magic and danger. The realm of the fae…
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Dance with the Fae by Elisabeth J. Hobbes could be a lovely choice for families who enjoy historical fantasy with a gentle touch of magic and romance. Set in the aftermath of World War I, the book weaves together themes of healing, self-discovery, and the enchantment of the fae world in a way that feels thoughtful and emotionally grounded. The romance is sweet and restrained, with no explicit sexual content, making it suitable for readers who appreciate romantic elements without the intensity of more adult fare. The supernatural elements offer a touch of wonder, adding to the book's appeal for fans of fairy lore and gentle fantasy. That said, families should know that while the book avoids graphic content, it does explore themes like grief, loss, and societal pressure, which may feel emotionally heavy for more sensitive readers. The violence is mild and more atmospheric than graphic, fitting the book’s overall tone. If your family is looking for light fantasy that offers emotional depth without crossing into mature territory, this story could be a rewarding and age-appropriate pick. However, those seeking fast-paced action or high-stakes drama may find the story’s quieter, reflective tone less engaging.
(romantic tension [slow-burn enemies-to-lovers], fantasy violence, and no heavy swearing)
AUTHOR AMBERLYN HOLLAND
PRINCE OF FROGS (BOOK 1)
A deadly bargain. A cursed prince. One kiss could break everything.
When Evonna strikes a blood bargain to find her missing brother, she’s given a single impossible task:
Kill Prince Alaistar of Darkhar by the full moon… or forfeit her own life.
They call him the Frog Prince. A monster in a silver mask. A ruthless general bound to the sea. Every story whispers that he’s cold-blooded and cruel.
But the man Evonna meets inside the storm-drenched fortress is nothing like the legend. Alaistar is distant, yes. But he's also brilliant, haunted, and capable of a compassion that cuts straight through her anger.
Each encounter chips away at her resolve, until she can no longer tell if she’s meant to kill him…or if she’s already lost her heart.
Now, with traitor threatening and her deadline looming, Evonna must make an impossible choice.
Sacrifice him to save herself and her brother…
Or sacrifice herself for love.
Prince of Frogs is a Frog Prince–inspired romantasy perfect for fans of clean fantasy romance, enemies-to-lovers tension, cursed princes, and magical fairy-tale retellings—with slow-burn romance, dangerous bargains, and a guaranteed happily-ever-after.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Prince of Frogs by Amberlyn Holland offers a romantic fantasy retelling of "The Frog Prince," featuring a slow-burn enemies-to-lovers narrative with a cursed prince and a reluctant assassin. The story includes romantic tension and emotional depth, with characters navigating betrayal, political intrigue, and personal growth. While the romance is central, it is presented in a clean manner without explicit sexual content, making it suitable for readers who appreciate character-driven stories with elements of magic and adventure. The book avoids graphic violence, explicit sexual scenes, and strong language, focusing instead on emotional and interpersonal conflicts. This makes it a good choice for readers seeking a romantic fantasy with depth and complexity, without the inclusion of mature content. Families looking for a story that balances romance with fantasy elements may find this series appealing.
(romance, mild sensuality, fantasy violence, and occasional mild swearing)
AUTHOR LAUREN BIRD HOROWITZ
SHATTERED BLUE
For Noa and Callum, being together is dangerous, even deadly. From the start, sixteen-year-old Noa senses that the mysterious transfer student to her Monterey boarding school is different. Callum unnerves and intrigues her, and even as she struggles through family tragedy, she’s irresistibly drawn to him. Soon they are bound by his deepest secret: Callum is Fae, banished from another world after a loss hauntingly similar to her own.
But in Noa’s world, Callum needs a special human energy, Light, to survive; his body steals it through touch—or a kiss. And Callum’s not the only Fae on the hunt. When Callum is taken, Noa must decide: Will she sacrifice everything to save him? Even if it means learning their love may not be what she thought?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Lauren Bird Horowitz’s Shattered Blue and its series offer a thrilling and emotional journey that blends romance, mystery, and fantasy, making it an excellent choice for readers and families who enjoy stories with deep emotional stakes and supernatural elements. The plot centers around a young girl, Blue, who is thrust into a world of dark secrets and hidden truths as she uncovers the mystery behind her own family's history. The story explores themes of identity, love, and the search for belonging, all while weaving in paranormal elements that keep readers engaged and invested in the characters’ journeys. The protagonist’s struggles with her powers, relationships, and inner conflicts create a compelling narrative that will resonate with readers of all ages. In terms of content, Shattered Blue is suitable for a young adult audience and families, with a focus on emotional depth rather than explicit themes. There is mild romantic tension between the characters, with moments of attraction and some kissing, but there is no sexual content or explicit scenes. The romance is portrayed as part of the characters’ growth and journey, offering a healthy and balanced depiction of relationships. The series emphasizes the importance of family, self-discovery, and overcoming adversity, making it a thoughtful and engaging choice for readers seeking a blend of fantasy and emotional exploration without heavy mature content.
(some fantasy violence, sensual kissing)
Editor's
Favorite
AUTHOR A.G. HOWARD
SPLINTERED (SPLINTERED BOOK 1)
Alyssa Gardner hears the whispers of bugs and flowers—precisely the affliction that landed her mother in a mental hospital years before. This family curse stretches back to her ancestor Alice Liddell, the real-life inspiration for Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Alyssa might be crazy, but she manages to keep it together. For now.
When her mother’s mental health takes a turn for the worse, Alyssa learns that what she thought was fiction is based in terrifying reality. The real Wonderland is a place far darker and more twisted than Lewis Carroll ever let on. There, Alyssa must pass a series of tests, including draining an ocean of Alice’s tears, waking the slumbering tea party, and subduing a vicious bandersnatch, to fix Alice’s mistakes and save her family. She must also decide whom to trust: Jeb, her gorgeous best friend and secret crush, or the sexy but suspicious Morpheus, her guide through Wonderland, who may have dark motives of his own.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
A.G. Howard’s Splintered and the series are excellent choices for readers who enjoy dark fantasy, adventure, and a fresh take on classic stories. The book is a modern retelling of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, featuring Alyssa Gardner, a young girl with a deep connection to Wonderland. The series blends vivid world-building with elements of mystery, suspense, and magic, keeping readers engaged with complex characters and a twisty plot. The themes of self-discovery, courage, and loyalty shine through as Alyssa navigates her family’s curse while discovering hidden truths about herself and the strange world around her. It’s an exciting, imaginative story that blends both whimsical and dark elements, appealing to readers who like a little edge to their fantasy tales. In terms of content, Splintered is appropriate for young adult readers, offering a balance between fantasy action, romance, and emotional depth. The romantic elements in the series are present, but they remain relatively tame, focusing on the complexity of the relationships rather than explicit content. There are moments of attraction and kissing, but the story is more focused on Alyssa’s personal growth, the challenges she faces, and the choices she must make. Overall, the series offers a rich, engaging narrative with themes of identity, belonging, and the power of choice, while keeping the romance appropriate for the intended age group. It’s a good choice for families looking for a captivating and thought-provoking fantasy series without overtly mature themes.
(some fantasy violence, sensual kissing)
AUTHOR A.G. HOWARD
ROSEBLOOD
Rune, whose voice has been compared to that of an angel, has a mysterious affliction linked to her talent that leaves her sick and drained at the end of every performance. Convinced creative direction will cure her, her mother ships her off to a French boarding school for the arts, rumored to have a haunted past.
Shortly after arriving at RoseBlood conservatory, Rune starts to believe something otherworldly is indeed afoot. The mystery boy she’s seen frequenting the graveyard beside the opera house doesn’t have any classes at the school, and vanishes almost as quickly as he appears. When Rune begins to develop a secret friendship with the elusive Thorn, who dresses in clothing straight out of the 19th century, she realizes that in his presence she feels cured. Thorn may be falling for Rune, but the phantom haunting RoseBlood wants her for a very specific and dangerous purpose. As their love continues to grow, Thorn is faced with an impossible choice: lead Rune to her destruction, or save her and face the wrath of the phantom, the only father he’s ever known.
A. G. Howard brings the romantic storytelling that Splintered fans adore to France—and an entirely new world filled with lavish romance and intrigue—in a retelling inspired by a story that has captivated generations. Fans of both the Phantom of the Opera musical and novel, as well as YA retellings such as Marissa Meyer’s Cinder, will devour RoseBlood.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
A.G. Howard’s RoseBlood and its series are a captivating choice for families who enjoy gothic fantasy with elements of mystery, romance, and the supernatural. Inspired by The Phantom of the Opera, RoseBlood introduces readers to Rune, a talented, yet troubled, young opera singer with a connection to a mysterious and magical past. The book beautifully blends the eerie atmosphere of the original Phantom tale with a modern twist, weaving themes of self-identity, acceptance, and discovering one’s inner strength. The lush, atmospheric setting and intriguing storyline will appeal to readers who enjoy darker, yet enchanting, stories with layers of depth and emotion. As far as content goes, RoseBlood is suitable for older teens and young adults. There are romantic moments in the story, with some attraction and emotional tension between characters, but the physicality of the romance remains limited to kissing and tender interactions. While the themes of love and longing are important to the story, the book avoids explicit sexual content, instead focusing on the relationships, character development, and the mystical elements surrounding the characters’ journeys. The book maintains a tone appropriate for a teen audience, offering a compelling gothic fantasy without delving into mature or explicit themes, making it a great choice for families seeking a thrilling, romantic, and suspenseful read.
(mild romance, no explicit sexual content, minimal violence, and little to no swearing)
AUTHOR S. R. JAYE
THE PRICE OF BEAUTY (BOOK 1)
In a realm of dark enchantment, where curses linger, beasts prowl, and winter’s shadow threatens to consume the land, beauty is the most dangerous power of all...
Maisie
Legends say the quest for beauty can turn men into monsters and monsters into heroes. When I dare to pluck a magic rose from the Fairy Queen’s cursed woods, I unwittingly set an ancient prophecy into motion - one that aims the Fairy Queen’s deadly wrath at me and binds my fate to two powerful men.
One is the brooding Prince of the Mortal Realm, bound by duty and a past that haunts him. The other is his twin brother, the High King of the Mortal Realm, the handsome young ruler who lingers in the darkness between desire and destruction. Both are loyal to the other, joined by the bond of twins. Both are drawn to me and the magical beauty the rose has bestowed on me. And both will fight to claim me - one for the salvation of the realm, the other for its ruin.
But I am no pawn. If beauty is a weapon, then I will learn to wield it. If power is a curse, then I will break it. I did not fight my way out of the dark woods just to let darkness destroy me and the world I love.
Trapped in a battle of light and shadow, love and betrayal, I must uncover the truth hidden in the heart of the prophecy before winter devours the world. And before I lose myself to the darkness whispering my name…
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Price of Beauty by S.R. Jaye could be a great choice for readers who enjoy fairy tale-inspired fantasy with a clean and thoughtful approach. The story blends magic, romance, and self-discovery in a way that feels uplifting and accessible, especially for those who prefer fantasy without heavy or graphic content. The romantic elements are sweet and understated, with no explicit scenes, making it a comfortable read for families who value more wholesome storytelling. Its positive messages and engaging plot make it a safe and enjoyable option for readers looking for meaningful yet age-appropriate fantasy. On the other hand, this book might not be the best fit for readers who prefer high-stakes drama, intense action, or more mature romantic content. While beautifully written, it leans more toward a gentle pace and emotional development rather than fast-moving adventure or gritty realism. Families looking for stories with deep conflict, darker themes, or complex moral dilemmas may find the tone a bit too light. However, for those seeking a clean, magical escape with a strong heroine and a romantic thread, this series is a solid and family-friendly option.
(some romance and supernatural violence)
AUTHOR NIKKI JEFFORD
SPELLCASTER WILD CARD (BOOK 1)
In a world where fame, power, and danger collide, one teenage girl steps into the game of her life. After tragedy shatters her world, Haylee Hutchins enters Spellcaster—a deadly competition of magic and monsters broadcast to millions. Winning could change everything… but surviving means guarding her heart as fiercely as her life. Because behind the cameras, alliances burn hot, secrets cut deep, and one rival might just become something more.
Lights. Camera. Immortality. Welcome to Spellcaster.
Winning the show means living forever. It is the golden ticket to fame, fortune, and a place among the vampire elite.
Being remade isn’t on my wish list. I like being me, and with nearly a million online followers, it's working. My parents and big sister are the do-gooders in our family who want to make the world a fair and just place for all humans and paranormal creatures. I just want to finish high school and keep doing what I do best—sharing hair and beauty tips while discussing Spellcaster and how the show’s vampire judge Malachi Rayne is the hottest male on the planet.
Then, life as I know it ends. There are evil forces who will stop at nothing to maintain world dominance—indefinitely.
It’s hard to care when I’ve become dead inside and out.
After my family is violently attacked, the host of Spellcaster insists I audition for Season 13. For the first time in the show’s history, they want to represent every species of paranormals. That’s me now. Not human. Not vampire. Not the class of creature anyone EVER cheers for.
This season’s prize is power beyond anyone’s imagination. It is the kind of reward that contestants and their sponsors would kill to possess.
Let the other contestants and judges underestimate me. They can gossip all they want about the hotshot wizard and the alpha werewolf behaving as though I’m another prize to be won. And if Coach Malachi can't handle a bold influencer with abilities, then he can suck it. I preferred watching him from the other side of the screen. He's about to discover that Haylee Hutchins is a force to be reckoned with. The whole world will.
Someone thought they could silence my family for good. Instead, they created a monster. I’m still here, and I am much harder to kill.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Spellcaster Wild Card is a fun underdog story: Haylee Hutchins is thrust into a high‑stakes “Spellcaster” competition where different paranormal creatures (vamps, witches, zombies, etc.) battle for supremacy. There’s a budding romance, social media drama, and a real sense of “win or die” tension, along with mystery and power struggles. Haylee’s journey has a redemptive thread as she learns to use her magic, protect her loved ones, and challenge a system stacked against her species. On the other hand, parents might raise concerns about the violence: her family is violently attacked, there’s competition sabotage, and there are strong species‑tensions that lead to hate-crime–style conflicts. The romance includes several instances of sensual "hints". Also, supernatural creatures and prejudice bring in mature themes like bigotry and identity. If you are comfortable with fantasy violence, moral complexity, and some romance this could be a compelling but not overly graphic read—but it may be less appropriate for readers who prefer lighter or more innocent fantasy.
(some fantasy violence, sensual kissing)
AUTHOR DANIELLE L. JENSEN
STOLEN SONGBIRD (BOOK 1)
The USA Today Bestselling debut from acclaimed author Danielle L. Jensen.
For five centuries, a witch’s curse has bound the trolls to their city beneath the ruins of Forsaken Mountain. Time enough for their dark and nefarious magic to fade from human memory and into myth. But a prophesy has been spoken of a union with the power to set the trolls free, and when Cécile de Troyes is kidnapped and taken beneath the mountain, she learns there is far more to the myth of the trolls than she could have imagined.
Cécile has only one thing on her mind after she is brought to Trollus: escape. Only the trolls are clever, fast, and inhumanly strong. She will have to bide her time, wait for the perfect opportunity.
But something unexpected happens while she’s waiting – she begins to fall for the enigmatic troll prince to whom she has been bonded and married. She begins to make friends. And she begins to see that she may be the only hope for the half-bloods – part troll, part human creatures who are slaves to the full-blooded trolls. There is a rebellion brewing. And her prince, Tristan, the future king, is its secret leader.
As Cécile becomes involved in the intricate political games of Trollus, she becomes more than a farmer’s daughter. She becomes a princess, the hope of a people, and a witch with magic powerful enough to change Trollus forever.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Danielle L. Jensen’s Stolen Songbird and the The Malediction Trilogy is a fantastic choice for readers who enjoy fantasy with strong character development, romance, and intrigue. The story follows Cecile, a young woman who is kidnapped and taken to an underground city of trolls, where she discovers a hidden world full of magic, danger, and secrets. As she forms relationships with the inhabitants, including the mysterious and reluctant prince, she uncovers a plot that could affect both the trolls and the human world. The book skillfully combines themes of loyalty, freedom, and sacrifice with rich world-building, making it an engaging read for fantasy lovers of all ages. Regarding content, Stolen Songbird is suitable for a young adult audience, with romantic elements that develop slowly throughout the story. While there are moments of attraction and passion between characters, the romantic interactions remain tasteful and not explicit. There are some intense scenes, particularly involving the darker aspects of the trolls' society, but the overall tone stays within the realm of young adult fantasy without delving into mature content. The series focuses on the emotional and physical growth of its characters, and while there are some emotionally charged moments, it avoids explicit sexual scenes, making it a good choice for families who enjoy fantasy with romantic elements but prefer to avoid overt sexual content.
(includes mild romance [kisses and emotional attraction], light violence/magical combat, and no strong swearing)
AUTHOR DIANA WYNNE JONES
HOWL'S MOVING CASTLE (BOOK 1)
“A true original.” —Katherine Rundell, bestselling author of Impossible Creatures
This entrancing classic fantasy novel is filled with surprises at every turn. An international bestseller, this much-loved book is the source for the Academy Award nominee for Best Animated Feature.
Sophie has the great misfortune of being the eldest of three daughters, destined to fail miserably should she ever leave home to seek her fate. But when she unwittingly attracts the ire of the Witch of the Waste, Sophie finds herself under a horrid spell that transforms her into an old lady. Her only chance at breaking it lies in the ever-moving castle in the hills: the Wizard Howl's castle.
To untangle the enchantment, Sophie must handle the heartless Howl, strike a bargain with a fire demon, and meet the Witch of the Waste head-on. Along the way, she discovers that there's far more to Howl—and herself—than first meets the eye. What will happen to Sophie Hatter when she enters Howl's castle?
In this giant jigsaw puzzle of a fantasy, people and things are never quite what they seem. Destinies are intertwined, identities exchanged, lovers confused.
All fans of classic fantasy books deserve the pleasure of reading those by Diana Wynne Jones, whose acclaim included the World Fantasy Award for Life Achievement.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Howl’s Moving Castle series by Diana Wynne Jones is a delightful blend of fantasy and romance, making it a classic example of romantasy. The story follows Sophie Hatter, a young woman who’s magically cursed to appear older, and Howl, a charming and mysterious wizard. The romance is gentle and sweet, mostly built on emotional connection, playful banter, and a few kisses — there’s no explicit sexual content. The series also has some mild magical violence: spell battles, dangerous transformations, and the occasional peril, but it’s never graphically gory. Swearing is minimal, with only a few mild curse words sprinkled throughout. Overall, the series focuses on magic, adventure, humor, and personal growth, so for families looking for a story that sparks imagination and heart, it’s a strong, positive choice. That said, there are a few things that might make some parents pause. The series features witchcraft, curses, and other magical elements, which some may prefer to monitor for younger readers. Sophie’s curse and Howl’s sometimes morally ambiguous actions involve deception and fear, though these are framed in ways that ultimately highlight courage, responsibility, and redemption. There’s a small amount of drinking implied, and the fantasy violence might feel tense in spots, but it’s never gratuitous. For readers open to a story with light romance, mild peril, and strong themes of self-discovery and kindness, it’s charming and uplifting — but families who are very strict about magic or romantic themes might want to consider it carefully.