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(not much swearing, two kissing scenes but no sex, some violence, references to drinking)
AUTHOR SABAA TAHIR
AN EMBER IN THE ASHES (BOOK 1)
BOOK ONE IN THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING SERIES • One of Time Magazine’s 100 Best Fantasy and 100 Best YA Books of All Time • People's Choice Award winner • Bustle's Best Young Adult Book
Laia is a slave. Elias is a soldier. Neither is free.
Under the Martial Empire, defiance is met with death. Those who do not vow their blood and bodies to the Emperor risk the execution of their loved ones and the destruction of all they hold dear.
It is in this brutal world, inspired by ancient Rome, that Laia lives with her grandparents and older brother. The family ekes out an existence in the Empire’s impoverished backstreets. They do not challenge the Empire. They’ve seen what happens to those who do.
But when Laia’s brother is arrested for treason, Laia is forced to make a decision. In exchange for help from rebels who promise to rescue her brother, she will risk her life to spy for them from within the Empire’s greatest military academy.
There, Laia meets Elias, the school’s finest soldier—and secretly, its most unwilling. Elias wants only to be free of the tyranny he’s being trained to enforce. He and Laia will soon realize that their destinies are intertwined—and that their choices will change the fate of the Empire itself.
ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR FROM The Wall Street Journal • Buzzfeed • LA Weekly • Bustle • Paste Magazine • Indigo • Suspense Magazine • The New York Public Library • Popsugar • Hypable
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Saba Tahir's An Ember in the Ashes is an engaging and immersive read that blends high-stakes action with deep character development, making it an excellent choice for readers who enjoy a mix of fantasy and historical elements. Set in a brutal, militaristic society inspired by ancient Rome, the story follows two protagonists, Laia and Elias, as they navigate a dangerous world filled with oppression, betrayal, and intrigue. The book is packed with tension and thrilling plot twists, as Laia, a young woman seeking to free her brother, and Elias, a soldier struggling against the cruelty of his own system, fight for survival and justice. It offers important themes such as resilience, sacrifice, and the fight for freedom, making it thought-provoking for both young adult readers and adults. While An Ember in the Ashes contains some dark and intense themes, including violence and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters, it is still appropriate for older teens. There are romantic elements throughout the series, but the romantic relationships are not overly explicit, with the focus primarily on emotional connection rather than physical intimacy. There are moments of tension and implied sexual situations, but they are generally handled with sensitivity. The book's strong themes of perseverance, justice, and the importance of standing up for what is right make it a worthwhile choice for families seeking a story with both action and meaningful messages. It provides a balance of excitement and depth, while addressing complex issues in a way that is accessible to mature readers.
(clean romance, mild fantasy violence, and no swearing)
AUTHORS SHARI L. TAPSCOTT & JAKE ANDREWS
KNIGHT FROM THE ASHES (BOOK 1)
The author of The Riven Kingdoms teams up with her husband to write an enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance full of humor, adventure, and a good helping of epic action.
With single-minded determination, Henrik has worked toward gaining his knighthood so he may rise above the lowly station in which he was born. But just when the coveted position is within his grasp, he’s tasked with a mission that proves to be far more difficult than expected—secretly keeping a watchful eye on Lady Clover, a nobleman’s daughter with a sharp tongue and a knack for starting fights.
Clover, too, has one goal in life, and it has nothing to do with joining dull and dry Henrik on his supply run to the northern guard post. Why the blacksmith’s son is so determined to keep her close, she has no idea. They bicker and fight, and if Clover were to find a troll pit, she would certainly dump Henrik into it.
By the time they reach their destination, they are more than ready to be rid of each other. Unfortunately, something is amiss in the northern mountains. The usually quiet aynauths are on the move, with a bloodthirsty agenda of killing the peaceful Woodmoor elves.
Putting their differences aside to work together, Henrik and Clover trek across the mountains to investigate. As they slowly unravel the mystery, uncovering clues that hint at a conspiracy against the crown, it quickly becomes apparent that what started as mutual distaste has morphed into something entirely different. Something dangerous, something they didn’t expect.
But neither Henrik nor Clover has room in their lives for love—especially when a sinister plot is already in the works that might not only tear them apart, but the entire kingdom as well…
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Knight from the Ashes by Shari L. Tapscott and the Crown and Crest series are often praised for their clean storytelling, lighthearted tone, and wholesome romance. Readers who enjoy fantasy adventures with knights, quests, and playful banter will likely find it a delightful and uplifting read. The romance is sweet and light, focusing on attraction, chemistry, and heartfelt moments rather than anything graphic. Families who prefer stories without explicit sexual content, heavy violence, or crude language will probably see this series as a positive choice. That said, some parents might object to elements of danger, battles, or mild violence that come with the fantasy adventure setting, though these scenes are not graphic. The romantic thread, while clean, may still feel too focused on attraction or relationships for readers whose families prefer stories without any romantic content at all. Overall, while the series avoids explicit sexual content, swearing, or disturbing violence, parents with very strict content guidelines may still wish to preview it.
Gifts $9.99 and under
(includes incidents of imprisonment, kidnapping, torture, and violence)
AUTHOR SHVETA THAKRAR
STAR DAUGHTER
The daughter of a star and a mortal, Sheetal is used to keeping secrets. Pretending to be “normal.” But when an accidental flare of her starfire puts her human father in the hospital, Sheetal needs a full star’s help to heal him. A star like her mother, who returned to the sky long ago.
Sheetal’s quest to save her father will take her to a celestial court of shining wonders and dark shadows, where she must take the stage as her family’s champion in a competition to decide the next ruling house of the heavens—and win, or risk never returning to Earth at all.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Star Daughter by Shveta Thakrar is an enchanting fantasy novel that is perfect for readers who enjoy stories with rich cultural elements, magical worlds, and heartfelt emotional journeys. Set against a backdrop of Indian mythology, the story follows Sheetal, a teenager who learns she is the daughter of a star, and must navigate the celestial realm to save her family. The novel beautifully combines adventure, family dynamics, and self-discovery, all while embracing themes of identity and belonging. This makes it an excellent choice for readers who want a thought-provoking fantasy story with an engaging plot and a fresh perspective. The content of Star Daughter is appropriate for a wide range of readers, particularly young adults. While there are some romantic elements, the book does not contain explicit sexual content. The romance is portrayed more through emotional connections and the challenges of navigating relationships rather than physical intimacy. The novel focuses on themes like family loyalty, courage, and finding one's place in the world, which makes it an excellent choice for families looking for stories that highlight important values. With its captivating world-building, relatable characters, and rich cultural storytelling, Star Daughter is a wonderful addition to any bookshelf for those seeking an engaging and accessible fantasy read.
(Light to moderate kissing, mental abuse, death, non-graphic fantasy violence, and zero swearing)
AUTHOR CALLIE THOMAS
A FOREST OF STOLEN MEMORIES
I didn’t care that he was a prince—they would not force me to marry a stranger.
A royal wedding turns to disaster when a sinister curse goes awry. A victim of the Sorcerer’s prophecy, Roselyn’s memories are instantly erased, leaving her panicked at the altar. Unwilling to marry a stranger, she flees to the place her prince fears most—the enchanted Mistbrooke Forest. Lost and afraid, she seeks help from a dark, mysterious traveler who may be the key to recovering her stolen memories.
After years of solitude, Cedrick is lost in the horrors of his past. He never expected to find himself face to face with the future princess of Cadell. The longstanding feud between their kingdoms doesn’t douse the fiery connection he feels to her, so when she requests safe passage through the forest, he can’t ignore her plea—even though it puts both their lives at risk.
Rose is determined to regain her memories, but with Cedrick as her reluctant guide, she experiences the magic of the forest through new eyes. Does true love really exist? She is beginning to think it might—with Cedrick. But when her past collides with her present, sparks explode, and the very memories she’s been seeking are the ones she most wishes she could forget.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
A Forest of Stolen Memories could be a great pick for families who enjoy magical fantasy worlds, emotional journeys, and a touch of romantic tension. The story includes some sweet, slow-burn romance with a few steamy moments—like passionate kisses and close physical contact—but it stops short of anything explicit. The themes of lost memories, grief, and rediscovery add emotional depth, and while there’s fantasy violence and danger, it’s not graphic or gory. Overall, the content stays within boundaries that many would consider appropriate for mature young readers who can handle slightly heavier themes. That said, this book may not be the best fit for families seeking something completely light or gentle. There are references to past trauma and mental manipulation that could be unsettling for more sensitive readers, along with the aforementioned romantic scenes that, while not graphic, are a bit more intense than in typical middle-grade or younger teen fantasy. Parents looking for purely wholesome or adventure-only stories might want to preview the content first to see if it aligns with their family's preferences.
(dark romantic themes, emotional and physical abuse, and mild swearing)
AUTHOR CALLIE THOMAS
MASK OF DECEPTION
If she can remove the monster’s mask, she will earn her freedom…but failure will cost her life.
Thirteen years ago, Princess Fiona fled the bloodshed within Ravenwood Castle. She has no desire to return to the place of her childhood nightmares, especially not as a prisoner locked in chains. Using the power of illusion, she glamours her appearance to conceal her royal identity, hoping that her facade won’t crumble before she can escape.
When the usurper king forces her on a deadly mission to subdue a wild man terrorizing his kingdom, Fiona must earn the trust of a masked monster who uses his sharp tongue and shifting personalities to keep her away. But the longer she’s with him, the more she sees beyond his disguise and succumbs to his charms.
With her life on the line, the last thing she needs is a distraction. But when he offers her another path to freedom, will she sacrifice everything for him?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Mask of Deception and Sacrifice by Callie Thomas is a dark romantic fantasy that weaves together intrigue, complex relationships, and personal growth. The story explores emotional tension, loyalty, and the consequences of deception, keeping readers engaged with a layered plot and dynamic characters. The romance is intense and central to the narrative, focusing on emotional connection and passion rather than explicit sexual content, making it appealing to those who enjoy slow-burning, character-driven relationships alongside high-stakes fantasy. Fans of morally complex worlds and intricate plots may find the series compelling and immersive. Parents might be concerned about the book’s mature themes, which include emotional and physical abuse, dark interpersonal conflicts, and intense romantic tension. There is mild swearing, and some situations may feel emotionally heavy or intense for sensitive readers. While there is no explicit sexual content, the combination of dark romance, tension, and morally challenging scenarios could make this series less suitable for families seeking lighter or purely wholesome fantasy stories.
(gentle romance and no spicy scenes)
AUTHOR LISA TOLK
EDEN (BOOK 1)
A secret island. A guarded princess. And the lighthouse keeper who saved her from the sea.
When Princess Kaya’s world on the idyllic island of Eden is shattered, she’s forced to flee, washing up on the shores of the mysterious, terrifying Self-lands she’s been taught to despise. Isolated from the modern world until now, Kaya’s unexpected journey becomes one to find truth. . . about Eden, about herself, and about her impossible feelings for the handsome lighthouse keeper who saved her from the sea.
Drew Meredith finds a young, beautiful girl in a gossamer gown unconscious on the shores of his beach. Now, instead of college decisions and lacrosse scholarships, he is uncovering myths and legends, explaining chocolate and flip flops, and teaching a self-conscious princess how to have fun.
And new to both of them is the growing feeling of attachment and desire that binds them. . . and blinds them to impending disaster.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Eden is exactly what it promises — a clean, sweet young adult fantasy with a gentle romance at its heart. The story follows characters navigating a magical world while forming heartfelt connections, and the romance is soft and wholesome, mostly consisting of emotional bonds and a few chaste kisses. There’s almost no sexual content, minimal swearing, and the action or conflict is light, with no graphic violence. It’s a story that focuses on kindness, growth, and hope, making it an excellent choice for readers or families looking for fantasy adventure without the intensity or adult themes found in many YA novels. That said, parents might still want to know a few small things. The story includes the usual fantasy elements — magical conflict, minor peril, and characters facing challenges or moral choices — which can create tension but aren’t gory or frightening. While it’s gentle, some readers might wish for more depth in stakes or more complex relationships, so it’s not a high-drama or emotionally intense series. Overall, Eden offers a safe, uplifting reading experience with positive arcs, making it a good option for families who want an adventurous, magical story with romance that’s purely clean.
(teenage romance, supernatural elements, and mild sensuality)
AUTHOR REGAN URE
ARCHAIC (BOOK 1)
Ava is a typical seventeen-year-old dealing with everyday teenage problems. A job opportunity for her father takes her parents overseas. Not wanting to move, she accepts her grandmother's offer to let her live with her, until her parents return.
On her first day at school in the new town, she meets Jared Walker-tall, dark and gorgeous, with an ego to match. Ava soon discovers that there is more to him than meets the eye. He is hiding a secret that will pull her into his world and put her life in danger.
Meet Ava Delaney. Analyze the way she looks, the way she acts and who she is. Memorize who she is, because she'll never be the same again.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Regan Ure’s Archaic is an excellent choice for families who enjoy exciting, thought-provoking fantasy with an emphasis on adventure and self-discovery. The story follows a protagonist thrust into a world of ancient mysteries and powerful beings, where she must navigate challenges and uncover hidden truths about her identity. The novel offers an intriguing mix of magic, suspense, and personal growth, making it a great option for readers of all ages who are interested in fantasy stories that go beyond the typical tropes. With its compelling plot and well-developed characters, Archaic is a perfect fit for fans of mythology-inspired stories and adventurous fantasy. In terms of content, Archaic is suitable for a wide range of readers, with no explicit sexual content. While there are some intense moments of danger and action that may involve mild peril, the violence is not graphic or overly detailed, ensuring it is appropriate for a younger audience. The focus of the book is on the protagonist's journey of self-discovery, overcoming obstacles, and the importance of relationships and loyalty. This makes Archaic a great choice for families looking for an engaging and thought-provoking story that can spark discussions about personal strength, bravery, and the power of knowledge, without exposing younger readers to inappropriate material.
(mild violence and minimal swearing; no explicit content)
AUTHOR PEDRO URVI
MARKED: THE ILENIAN ENIGMA (BOOK 1)
A powerful evil. A deadly destiny. Will a young warrior fulfill his calling or doom millions of lives?
Komir has always been an outcast. Despite his incredible skill, his mysterious origins have kept the tribe from giving the nineteen-year-old the respect he craves. But when the young warrior suffers a shocking act of violence, he sets off from the only home he's ever known in search of justice.
Guided by his mother's medallion, Komir and a growing band of allies stumble across a mythical temple from a lost civilization. But as they reveal unthinkable magic and dark secrets, the group unknowingly triggers a bloody prophecy. One that could send black-magic invaders swarming across every corner of the continent. Or even something more deadly.
Can Komir accept his destiny before a sinister force condemns the kingdoms to a devastating reign of ruin?
Marked is the first book in the Ilenian Enigma epic fantasy series. If you like swords and sorcery, treachery and intrigue, and powerful magic, then you'll love Pedro Urvi's kingdom-spanning tale.
Read Marked to fulfill a magical destiny today!
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Pedro Urvi’s Marked: The Ilenian Enigma is an exciting choice for readers who love immersive science fiction with a strong narrative and complex characters. Set in a unique world with an intriguing mix of mystery and futuristic technology, the book presents a gripping adventure that follows the protagonist as they unravel a deep and dangerous conspiracy. The world-building is rich, offering readers a vivid setting filled with complex societies, which makes it appealing for fans of thought-provoking dystopian and sci-fi narratives. With a fast-paced plot and well-drawn characters, this book is perfect for readers who enjoy a mix of action, mystery, and a little bit of intrigue in their stories. In terms of content, Marked is appropriate for a wide range of readers, particularly older teens and young adults. The book focuses more on action, strategy, and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters, rather than explicit content. While there may be some mild romance elements woven into the plot, they are not the central focus of the story. There is no sexual content in a graphic sense, and any romance is presented in a more subtle, emotional way rather than explicit physical interaction. This makes Marked a good choice for readers looking for an engaging, thrilling read without the concerns of inappropriate content, while still offering character depth and relationship development.
(slow-burn romance (some steamy, implied intimate moments), moderate supernatural violence, mild swearing, and dark themes)
AUTHOR MEGAN VAN DYKE
THE MUSICIAN AND THE MONSTER (BOOK 1)
Beauty and the Beast meets The Phantom of the Opera in this Bridgerton-esque fantasy of manners with strong gothic vibes and magic.
"Music says things words never can. I love you. I miss you. I’m sorry I killed you."
Every night, Ceridwen Kinsley plays music on her rooftop for the spirit of her dead mother. Until one night, she's attacked by something not quite human, bringing her to the attention of Lord Protector Drystan Winterbourne.
Charged with protecting the backwater city of Teneboure by the king, Drystan is failing at his task, and he can’t afford another slip up. But when fate and the very monster he means to conquer bring Ceridwen to his notice, he seizes the opportunity and presents her with an offer: play music for him at his manor in exchange for the money her impoverished family desperately needs. Music eases the strain of his magic, and who better to hire than the woman whose tunes he secretly listens to at night?
At first, Ceridwen is put off by Drystan’s unkempt appearance and harsh demeanor, not to mention the odd ailment that plagues him. But as he embraces her passion for music and she draws the recluse out of his lonely tower, the two develop an unlikely attachment. Class lines begin to blur as fearful indifference shifts to unexpected desire.
However, the monster prowling the night isn’t their only enemy, and as terrible secrets come to light, even true love may not be enough to save them.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Musician and the Monster by Megan Van Dyke can be a wonderful choice for readers who enjoy lush, fairy tale-inspired fantasy with emotional depth and romantic tension. This gothic fantasy retelling of Beauty and the Beast features a strong heroine, a morally complex “monster,” and a richly atmospheric world. The romance is central to the story and includes steamy scenes with implied intimacy, though these moments are handled with emotion and care rather than graphic detail. For readers comfortable with sensual content and darker romantic themes, the story offers a powerful narrative of healing, redemption, and the transformative power of love. However, this book may not be the best fit for families seeking lighter, clean fantasy. In addition to the sensual romance, the story includes moderate violence, dark magical elements, and mature emotional themes such as trauma and isolation. While the content isn’t explicit in a graphic or vulgar way, it does require a reader who’s comfortable navigating complex emotions and some intense moments. Families looking for wholesome adventure or content geared toward younger readers may prefer stories with gentler tones and simpler relationships.