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At a Glance
(contains mild sexual references, moderate violence, and dated gender roles)
AUTHOR BRIAN W. ALDISS
NON-STOP (BOOK 1)
A “brilliant . . . classic of the field” generation ship adventure from the Golden Age of Science Fiction by the author of the Helliconia Trilogy (Encyclopedia of Science Fiction).
Curiosity was discouraged in the Greene tribe. Its members lived out their lives in cramped Quarters, hacking away at the encroaching ponics. As to where they were - that was forgotten.
Roy Complain decides to find out. With the renegade priest Marapper, he moves into unmapped territory, where they make a series of discoveries which turn their universe upside-down...
Non-Stop is the classic SF novel of discovery and exploration; a brilliant evocation of a familiar setting seen through the eyes of a primitive.
“One of the most important SF writers of the 20th century.” —Publishers Weekly
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Non-Stop by Brian W. Aldiss is a classic science fiction novel that could be a compelling choice for families or readers interested in thought-provoking speculative fiction. The story takes place on a massive generation ship, with a mystery slowly unfolding about the nature of the world the characters inhabit. It's an adventurous and intellectually engaging read, especially for teens who enjoy dystopian or philosophical sci-fi. The content is generally mild by today's standards, with only subtle romantic elements and brief sexual references that are neither explicit nor central to the plot. The book offers exciting themes like survival, identity, and societal structure—all ripe for deeper discussion. That said, Non-Stop does reflect the era in which it was written (1958), and parents may want to be aware of some dated attitudes, particularly in the portrayal of gender roles and relationships. The violence, while not graphic, is part of the tribal conflicts and survival scenarios that drive the story forward, which might be intense for younger readers but is likely manageable for teens. There's little to no strong language, which makes it more accessible for families looking for a cleaner read. Overall, it’s a fascinating book with timeless ideas—just one that benefits from a bit of context and conversation to help modern readers interpret its older perspectives.
(some fantasy violence, sensual kissing)
Editor's
Favorite
AUTHOR JENNIFER L. ARMENTROUT
OBSIDIAN (LUX BOOK 1)
Starting over sucks.
When we moved to West Virginia right before my senior year, I’d pretty much resigned myself to thick accents, dodgy internet access, and a whole lot of boring… until I spotted my hot neighbor, with his looming height and eerie green eyes. Things were looking up.
And then he opened his mouth.
Daemon is infuriating. Arrogant. Stab-worthy. We do not get along. At all. But when a stranger attacks me and Daemon literally freezes time with a wave of his hand, well, something… unexpected happens.
The hot alien living next door marks me.
You heard me. Alien. Turns out Daemon and his sister have a galaxy of enemies wanting to steal their abilities, and Daemon’s touch has me lit up like the Vegas Strip. The only way I’m getting out of this alive is by sticking close to Daemon until my alien mojo fades.
If I don’t kill him first, that is.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Jennifer L. Armentrout’s Obsidian and its series are a fantastic choice for readers who enjoy a mix of paranormal romance, action, and character development. The book follows Katy, a high school student who moves to a small town and becomes entangled with her mysterious and seemingly arrogant neighbor, Daemon. What Katy doesn't know is that Daemon and his sister are aliens with incredible powers, and she soon finds herself drawn into a world filled with danger, intrigue, and intense chemistry. The blend of suspense, romance, and paranormal elements creates a captivating story that will appeal to fans of the genre, especially those who enjoy books that combine both tension and tenderness. Regarding content, Obsidian is suited for older teens, particularly those who enjoy romance with some mature themes. The relationship between Katy and Daemon is filled with tension and sparks, but the sexual content is generally limited to innuendo, mild references, and passionate but not explicit moments. The book focuses more on the emotional and psychological aspects of their connection, with some steamy moments but not graphic sex scenes. The series does include action and some violence, as Daemon and Katy face threats from otherworldly enemies, but it remains suitable for readers looking for an exciting and romantic read that doesn’t rely on explicit content. It’s a great pick for readers who enjoy thrilling romances with a supernatural twist and relatable characters.
(passionate kissing, no swearing)
AUTHOR AMY A. BARTOL
UNDER DIFFERENT STARS (BOOK 1)
Kricket Hollowell never wished upon stars. She was too busy hiding in plain sight, eluding Chicago’s foster care system. As her eighteenth birthday approaches, she now eagerly anticipates the day she’ll stop running and finally find her place in the world.
That day comes when she meets a young Etharian soldier named Trey Allairis, who has been charged with coming to Earth to find Kricket and transport her to her true home. As danger draws close, he must protect her until she can wield the powers she cannot use on Earth…and he soon realizes that counting a galaxy of stars would be easier than losing this extraordinary girl.
Kyon knows the powerful depths of Kricket’s gifts—gifts he’ll control when he takes her for his tribe and leads the forces that will claim Ethar and destroy his enemies, starting with Trey Allairis. Now, Kricket faces the most difficult choice of her life: whether to wage a battle for survival or a fight for love.
Winner of four 2014 utopYA Awards, including Best Book of the Year and Best Sci-Fi Book of the Year.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Amy A. Bartol’s Under Different Stars and its series are a compelling choice for readers who enjoy a mix of science fiction, romance, and strong character development. Set in a world where humans are at war with an alien species, the book follows Kricket, a girl who is thrust into a foreign and dangerous world. As she navigates a society full of political intrigue and personal conflict, Kricket’s journey of survival, loyalty, and discovering her own power will captivate readers. The combination of fast-paced action, well-developed characters, and a unique premise makes this series appealing for fans of science fiction and paranormal romance. Regarding content, Under Different Stars is best suited for older teens and young adults, as it contains romantic tension and more mature themes. The relationship between Kricket and the male lead has a slow-burn dynamic with moments of sexual tension and mild physical intimacy, but there is no explicit sexual content. The romance is woven through the story with a focus on emotional connection and the complexity of their circumstances, rather than graphic scenes. While there is some violence and danger due to the war and political unrest, the story remains accessible for readers who enjoy thrilling action mixed with romance. The series is a great choice for readers looking for a blend of adventure, romance, and emotional depth in a gripping science fiction world.
(violent with mild to moderate swearing)
AUTHOR PIERCE BROWN
RED RISING (BOOK 1)
Darrow is a Red, a member of the lowest caste in the color-coded society of the future. Like his fellow Reds, he works all day, believing that he and his people are making the surface of Mars livable for future generations. Yet he toils willingly, trusting that his blood and sweat will one day result in a better world for his children.
But Darrow and his kind have been betrayed. Soon he discovers that humanity reached the surface generations ago. Vast cities and lush wilds spread across the planet. Darrow—and Reds like him—are nothing more than slaves to a decadent ruling class.
Inspired by a longing for justice, and driven by the memory of lost love, Darrow sacrifices everything to infiltrate the legendary Institute, a proving ground for the dominant Gold caste, where the next generation of humanity’s overlords struggle for power. He will be forced to compete for his life and the very future of civilization against the best and most brutal of Society’s ruling class. There, he will stop at nothing to bring down his enemies . . . even if it means he has to become one of them to do so.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Pierce Brown’s Red Rising and its series are an excellent choice for readers who enjoy complex world-building, intense action, and a gripping story about social inequality and revolution. Set in a future where society is divided into color-coded classes, the protagonist, Darrow, is a member of the oppressed lower class who infiltrates the elite ruling class to spark a rebellion. The book explores themes of power, sacrifice, and loyalty, offering readers a thought-provoking narrative with high stakes and complex moral dilemmas. Fans of dystopian fiction with a mix of political intrigue and epic battles will find themselves captivated by the intense plot and well-crafted characters. In terms of content, Red Rising is better suited for older teens and adults, as it contains graphic violence, strong language, and mature themes. While there are some moments of romantic tension, the sexual content is minimal and not explicit, focusing more on the emotional and psychological aspects of the characters’ relationships. The primary focus of the book is on Darrow’s journey through a brutal society, and the story often delves into the harsh realities of war and class struggle. Readers should be prepared for some graphic battle scenes and ethical questions around violence and rebellion, making it ideal for those who enjoy thought-provoking and action-packed narratives without an overemphasis on romance or sexual content. Red Rising is a great choice for readers who appreciate high-concept science fiction and complex characters navigating morally gray areas.
(lighthearted sci-fi adventure featuring mild romantic tension, minimal violence, and little to no strong language)
AUTHOR REX BURKE
THIRD LOCH FROM THE SUN (BOOK 1)
Secrets come in all shapes and sizes
Jake has left it late, and the only summer job he can find is on the remote Scottish island of Elsay. Still, that sounds fine – the work isn’t too hard, the pay’s all right, and the scenery is great.
But he soon has second thoughts about staying. His boss, Fraser, is a bit of a rogue, while Fraser’s cute but snippy daughter, Alva, takes against him from the start. And the oddball characters in the local pub aren’t exactly welcoming.
Then Jake stumbles on an extraordinary secret that changes everything that’s known about the universe. A secret he can scarcely believe. A secret that Alva and the island recluse, Ruan Strang, have sworn to protect at all costs.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Third Loch from the Sun by Rex Burke is a lighthearted sci-fi adventure set on a quirky Scottish island, offering a blend of humor, mystery, and a touch of romance. The story follows Jake, a student who takes a summer job on the remote island of Elsay, only to uncover an extraordinary secret that challenges his understanding of the universe. The narrative is driven by plot rather than deep character development, focusing on Jake's interactions with the island's eccentric inhabitants and the unfolding mystery. The book features dry British humor and a cozy atmosphere, making it an enjoyable read for those who appreciate a whimsical take on science fiction. In terms of content, the book is generally family-friendly. There is mild romantic tension between Jake and Alva, the daughter of his boss, but it remains subtle and without explicit sexual content. Violence is minimal, and any instances are portrayed in a non-graphic, humorous manner. The language is clean, with little to no strong profanity. Given these factors, Third Loch from the Sun is suitable for readers who enjoy light-hearted science fiction with a comedic twist, without the concern of mature content.
(contains moderate sci-fi action violence, mild swearing, and light romantic tension without explicit sexual content)
AUTHOR LINDSAY BUROKER
SHOCKWAVE (BOOK 1)
What if being a hero was encoded in your genes?
And nobody told you?
Casmir Dabrowski would laugh if someone asked him that. After all, he had to build a robot to protect himself from bullies when he was in school.
Fortunately, life is a little better these days. He’s an accomplished robotics engineer, a respected professor, and he almost never gets picked on in the lunchroom. But he’s positive heroics are for other people. Until robot assassins stride onto campus and try to kill him.
Forced to flee the work he loves and the only home he’s ever known, Casmir catches the first ship into space, where he hopes to buy time to figure out who wants him dead and why. If he can’t, he’ll never be able to return home.
But he soon finds himself entangled with bounty hunters, mercenaries, and pirates, including the most feared criminal in the Star Kingdom: Captain Tenebris Rache.
Rache could snap his spine with one cybernetically enhanced finger, but he may be the only person with the answer Casmir desperately needs: What in his genes is worth killing for?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Shockwave by Lindsay Buroker offers a thrilling blend of science fiction adventure and character-driven storytelling, making it an appealing choice for readers who enjoy fast-paced narratives with a touch of humor and light romantic tension. The story follows Casmir Dabrowski, a robotics engineer thrust into a perilous journey involving robot assassins and space pirates. The novel features moderate action violence and mild swearing, with romantic elements that remain subtle and non-explicit. This balance makes it suitable for readers who appreciate engaging plots without graphic content. However, for families or readers sensitive to depictions of violence or seeking content free from any swearing, Shockwave might not be the ideal choice. While the romantic aspects are understated, the presence of action-driven violence and occasional mild language could be points of concern for some. Additionally, the science fiction elements, while imaginative, may not align with readers looking for strictly realistic or scientifically accurate narratives. Overall, Shockwave is best suited for those comfortable with PG-13-level content and who enjoy adventurous tales set in futuristic settings.
(contains moderate sci-fi violence, occasional strong language, and minimal romance)
AUTHOR JOSHUA T. CALVERT
THE LAST BATTLESHIP (BOOK 1)
Humanity’s endless war and a crew of outcasts on a decommissioned warship who could change the future.
First contact with the alien “Clicks” led to a generations’ long war. The Terran Federation still knows very little about the enemy.
Captain Konrad Bradley commands the decommissioned battleship Oberon, the last remaining Titan of the fleet. Mocked as a flying museum - too expensive, too cumbersome, too old - Bradley and his crew of outcasts from a long-vanished colony lead a dull life on the farthest edge of human hegemony.
Bradley’s hope to go quietly into the night ends with the arrival of the legendary Strike Group 2 and the delivery of a secret so great it could end the war. That’s why Lagunia was chosen for its construction.
Getting the system operational doesn’t go as expected leaving Bradley and the Oberon to clean up the mess that has drawn the attention of those they hoped would never find them.
Follow the exploits of The Last Battleship today in the ultimate battle to save humanity.
"Joshua T. Calvert has a gift for making nail-biting science fiction that you can't put down. Get ready for some sleepless nights!" - M.A. Rothman, USA Today bestselling author
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Last Battleship by Joshua T. Calvert could be a great choice for families or readers who enjoy fast-paced, action-heavy science fiction with a focus on strategy, leadership, and interstellar conflict. The story centers around a decommissioned battleship and its crew as they’re pulled into a galaxy-spanning war, which provides a lot of excitement without relying on overly graphic content. The violence is mostly tied to space battles and military scenarios—intense but not disturbingly graphic. With minimal romance and no explicit sexual content, it stays largely focused on its sci-fi themes, making it a safe and entertaining option for readers who enjoy tactical combat and outer space settings without heavy emotional or sensual distractions. However, it might not be the best fit for families looking to avoid strong language or any form of violence, as the book does include some coarse language and the kind of battle scenes expected in military sci-fi. While the romantic elements are extremely light or non-existent, the overall tone is serious and intense, which might not appeal to readers who prefer more lighthearted or character-driven narratives. That said, for readers who appreciate a plot-driven, war-in-space type of story without explicit sexual content, this series offers an engaging experience with relatively mild content concerns.
(contains intense violence, some bullying, mild swearing, and minimal romance)
Editor's
Favorite
AUTHOR ORSON SCOTT CARD
ENDER'S GAME (BOOK 1)
Orson Scott Card's Ender's Game is the winner of the Nebula and Hugo Awards
In order to develop a secure defense against a hostile alien race's next attack, government agencies breed child geniuses and train them as soldiers. A brilliant young boy, Andrew "Ender" Wiggin lives with his kind but distant parents, his sadistic brother Peter, and the person he loves more than anyone else, his sister Valentine. Peter and Valentine were candidates for the soldier-training program but didn't make the cut—young Ender is the Wiggin drafted to the orbiting Battle School for rigorous military training.
Ender's skills make him a leader in school and respected in the Battle Room, where children play at mock battles in zero gravity. Yet growing up in an artificial community of young soldiers Ender suffers greatly from isolation, rivalry from his peers, pressure from the adult teachers, and an unsettling fear of the alien invaders. His psychological battles include loneliness, fear that he is becoming like the cruel brother he remembers, and fanning the flames of devotion to his beloved sister.
Is Ender the general Earth needs? But Ender is not the only result of the genetic experiments. The war with the Buggers has been raging for a hundred years, and the quest for the perfect general has been underway for almost as long. Ender's two older siblings are every bit as unusual as he is, but in very different ways. Between the three of them lie the abilities to remake a world. If, that is, the world survives.
Ender's Game is the winner of the 1985 Nebula Award for Best Novel and the 1986 Hugo Award for Best Novel.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Orson Scott Card’s Ender’s Game and its series are excellent choices for readers who enjoy thought-provoking science fiction that combines complex moral questions with fast-paced action. The story follows young Ender Wiggin, a brilliant strategist recruited to attend Battle School, where he is trained to lead humanity’s defense against an alien species. As Ender faces intense challenges and makes difficult decisions, the book delves into themes of leadership, empathy, and the morality of war. The story's exploration of personal sacrifice, manipulation, and the impact of violence makes it a compelling read for teens and adults alike, offering a gripping narrative that also encourages reflection on ethics and human nature. Regarding content, Ender’s Game is suitable for older teens and young adults due to its mature themes, particularly the psychological and emotional challenges that Ender faces. The book does not include explicit sexual content, focusing more on the mental and emotional growth of the characters. There is some violence, particularly in the context of simulated battles, but it is not gratuitous and serves to illustrate the high-stakes nature of the story. The series as a whole continues to explore complex social and ethical issues, making it a great choice for families who are ready for thought-provoking, action-packed stories that don’t rely on graphic content. It’s a great pick for readers who enjoy science fiction with depth and nuance.
(minimal violence, and no swearing)
AUTHOR JOHN CHRISTOPHER
THE TRIPODS (BOOK 1)
Monstrous machines rule the Earth, but a few humans are fighting for freedom in this repackaged start to a classic alien trilogy ideal for fans of Rick Yancey’s The 5th Wave.
Will Parker never dreamed he would be the one to rebel against the Tripods. With the approach of his thirteenth birthday, he expected to attend his Capping ceremony as planned and to become connected to the Tripods—huge three-legged machines—that now control all of Earth. But after an encounter with a strange homeless man called Beanpole, Will sets out for the White Mountains, where people are said to be free from the control of the Tripods.
But even with the help of Beanpole and his friends, the journey is long and hard. And with the Tripods hunting for anyone who tries to break free, Will must reach the White Mountains fast. But the longer he’s away from his home, the more the Tripods look for him…and no one can hide from the monstrous machines forever.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The White Mountains by John Christopher is often a solid choice for families and readers who enjoy classic science fiction with strong themes of adventure, friendship, and resistance against oppression. The story follows young protagonists as they escape a society controlled by alien “Tripods” and seek freedom, making it an engaging tale of courage and coming of age. Content-wise, it’s very clean—there is no explicit sexual material, no strong language, and the violence is mild and age-appropriate, mostly involving tense situations and brief scuffles rather than graphic scenes. This makes it a great option for families looking for thoughtful, exciting science fiction that sparks discussion without raising many content concerns. That said, some readers might find the pacing slower than modern sci-fi, and the book's older writing style may not appeal to those looking for fast, action-driven plots or intense emotional drama. The absence of romance or more mature elements might also make it feel too tame for readers who enjoy edgier stories or complex character relationships. Still, for those who value clean, thought-provoking stories with a classic tone and moral clarity, The White Mountains is a rewarding and age-appropriate read.
(contains mild science fiction violence, minimal coarse language, and no explicit sexual content)
AUTHOR RON COLLINS
STARFLIGHT (BOOK 1)
Absence of Evidence is not Evidence of Absence
Everguard’s mission: Launch a multidimensional wormhole gate inside Alpha Centauri A so Interstellar Command can fuel new faster-than-light spaceships.
Lieutenant Commander Torrance Black, career already on shaky grounds, finds himself facing questions. Did they just contact sentient life in the Centauri system? Will humankind sacrifice an entire alien species in their quest for the stars?
How much will he have risk to save them?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Starflight by Ron Collins could be a great choice for families who enjoy science fiction with a thoughtful, philosophical bent. The story explores space travel, political intrigue, and ethical dilemmas through a clean, character-driven lens. There's very little in terms of objectionable content—no explicit sexual scenes, only mild romance, minimal swearing, and violence that's more thematic than graphic. These qualities make it a solid pick for readers who want a mature, compelling sci-fi experience without diving into intense or explicit content. That said, some families might find the story's slower pace or its emphasis on political and moral complexity less engaging for readers looking for fast-paced action or flashy sci-fi elements. Younger or more sensitive readers might also need support navigating the more cerebral or abstract elements of the plot. However, for families interested in science fiction that provokes thought rather than just thrill, Starflight offers a safe and enriching read.
(a lighthearted time-travel adventure featuring mild romantic elements, minimal violence, and no explicit sexual content or strong language)
AUTHOR ADRIAN COUSINS
EYE OF TIME (BOOK 1)
Thirty-six years have elapsed since the murder of Jemma Stone. An unsolved case consigned to history – or is it?
Leap back to 1979 in this humorous time-travel whodunnit.
A clandestine organisation requires a Change Agent to alter the past and ensure certain future events are averted. Frank Stone, a rough sleeper, becomes their latest target.
In 2015, as his life spirals downward, Frank has fallen on hard times. However, fate hasn't finished with Frank.
Despite his scepticism, the Correction Years Association send Frank through time, back to 1979, instructing him to change history. As he calamitously tries to readjust to his youthful life, the extensive list of potential murder suspects continues to grow.
Frank is running out of time and, unbeknown to him, he's not the only one attempting to alter the past. Can he identify the killer before time repeats? Will he succeed and change history, and what are the penalties for failure?
If you like time travel, entwined with mystery and humour, you'll love this fast-paced series by Adrian Cousins.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Eye of Time by Adrian Cousins could be a great choice for families or individual readers looking for a clean, adventurous story with a time-travel twist. The book maintains a light, accessible tone throughout, and the content stays well within family-friendly territory—there’s no explicit sexual content or graphic violence, and the language remains mild. With a plot that explores history, action, and mild romance, it offers a fun and thought-provoking read without pushing any boundaries that might concern parents. It’s especially appealing for readers who enjoy science fiction without the darker or more mature content often associated with the genre. That said, Eye of Time might not be the best fit for readers who prefer edgier storytelling or more intense emotional or romantic drama. The romance in the book is subtle and secondary to the main adventure, which may leave those looking for more passion or complexity in character relationships feeling a bit underwhelmed. Likewise, those who thrive on high-stakes tension or morally gray characters might find the tone a little too safe or predictable. Still, for families seeking a well-paced, clean adventure with a clever premise, Eye of Time delivers a solid and enjoyable experience.
(contains mild romance, some violence, no sexual content, and occasional swearing)
AUTHOR ROBERT CRANE
ALONE (BOOK 1)
The first edge-of-your-seat novel in the million-selling Girl in the Box Series by Robert J. Crane.
Sienna Nealon was a 17-year-old girl who had been held prisoner in her own house by her mother for twelve years. Then one day her mother vanished, and Sienna woke up to find two strange men in her home. On the run, unsure of who to turn to and discovering she possesses mysterious powers, Sienna finds herself pursued by a shadowy agency known as the Directorate and hunted by a vicious psychopath named Wolfe, each of which is determined to capture her for their own purposes...
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Robert Crane’s Alone and its series is a compelling choice for readers who enjoy post-apocalyptic adventures filled with suspense, survival, and character development. Set in a world where a deadly virus has decimated much of humanity, the protagonist, Jessie, must navigate a dangerous and lonely landscape where trust is hard to come by, and danger lurks around every corner. The book delves into themes of isolation, survival instincts, and the human will to endure in the face of overwhelming odds. Readers who enjoy stories of resilience, self-discovery, and human connection in a bleak and thrilling environment will find this series both captivating and thought-provoking. Regarding content, Alone is suitable for older teens and adults, as it contains some violent scenes, tense situations, and darker themes related to survival in a post-apocalyptic world. While the book explores relationships and personal connections, it does not focus heavily on romance, and the sexual content is minimal. Any romantic elements are subtle and secondary to the plot’s survival themes, ensuring that the focus remains on the emotional and psychological struggles of the characters. The story is ideal for readers who appreciate high-stakes action with a strong, independent female lead and enjoy stories that explore the moral complexities of survival in a broken world. The minimal sexual content and absence of graphic scenes make it an appropriate choice for readers looking for a thrilling, yet family-friendly adventure.
(contains mild romance, moderate violence, some sensual content, and occasional swearing)
AUTHOR SIOBHAN DAVIS
SAVEN DECEPTION (BOOK 1)
THE TRUTH DOESN'T ALWAYS SET YOU FREE
I've fallen hard for an alien, but he's harboring secrets.
Massive secrets that threaten the very essence of humanity.
How can I give him my heart when his race plans on taking my future?
Sadie Owens has been slowly dying inside. Bit by bit, piece by piece, day by day. Trapped in a life she hates, she relies on only one person--herself.
Despised by her family and betrayed by an unscrupulous government, Sadie dreams of a different life. When she is chosen to participate in the government's new social experiment, she is ecstatic at the prospect of spending six months in Thalassic City, the shiny new city under the sea.
Immediately drawn to Logan Chandler, Sadie is captivated by the beautiful boy with the ocean-blue eyes. Logan seems to embody everything that has been forbidden, but he isn't all he appears to be.
Confused over Logan's true intentions and concerned when best friend Jenna starts transforming in front of her eyes, Sadie partners with newcomer Jarod in a bid to uncover the government's real agenda. The truth is more shocking than anything she could ever have imagined.
When Sadie finally understands why the Saven walk among us, will it be too late to save her heart and the human race?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Siobhan Davis’s Saven Deception and its series is an excellent choice for readers who enjoy fast-paced science fiction with elements of romance, action, and mystery. Set in a futuristic world where political intrigue, intergalactic tension, and dangerous secrets shape the lives of its characters, the story follows the protagonist, Keira, as she uncovers shocking truths about her identity while navigating complex relationships. The series combines high-stakes adventure with a focus on personal growth, loyalty, and uncovering hidden truths, making it an engaging read for fans of thrilling, multi-layered plots and strong, independent characters. In terms of content, Saven Deception contains some romantic tension and mild sexual content, which is generally suggestive but not explicit. The focus of the book is more on Keira’s emotional journey, the challenges she faces, and the unraveling of her world’s deeper mysteries. While there is some mature language and references to romantic relationships, the series is primarily suitable for older teens due to its action, intensity, and slightly more mature themes of loyalty, betrayal, and self-discovery. The romance is a subplot rather than the main focus, so readers can enjoy the dynamic story without it becoming too central to the overall narrative. This makes the Saven series an exciting and accessible choice for those seeking adventure, mystery, and light romance without explicit content.
(scenes of drinking, drug use and driving under the influence--but none are glorified depictions, fade to black sex and highly sensual scenes)
Editor's
Favorite
AUTHOR CARMEN DESO
CREATUS (BOOK 1)
Derrick is one of the creatus, created beings who have lived on the earth for more than four thousand years. Many questions surround the origin of these sentient beings who are stronger than humans, eat differently, and live longer. But they were created just as we were, maybe even before us. It is from them we obtain our fairy tales--and our nightmares. They are the reason we believe in superheroes--and monsters. Because...they exist.
In the past, they kept the human race safe from an anonymous distance. But now Derrick must come out of the darkness to save a woman he has no business loving, even if doing so may threaten his entire race.
The Creatus Series is not your normal paranormal story...it's a realistic romantic mystery based on the myths you've heard your entire life. Prepare to believe...
Bonus Material! Creatus includes the prequel: Creatus (They Exist) and a sneak peek at Creatus Rogue.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Carmen DeSo’s Creatus and its series offer an exciting blend of supernatural intrigue, romance, and action, making it an appealing choice for readers who enjoy fast-paced, character-driven stories. The series follows the journey of a young woman named Camille, who discovers that her life is more interconnected with a hidden world of ancient beings than she could have imagined. With elements of mystery and suspense, Creatus explores themes of trust, identity, and the consequences of living in a world full of secrets. The engaging plot, combined with its supernatural elements and strong romantic undertones, will captivate readers who enjoy paranormal fiction with a focus on relationships and self-discovery. Regarding content, Creatus does contain romantic elements, though the sexual content is relatively mild and not the main focus of the story. The romance is built around the emotional connection between the characters, and while there are some passionate moments, they are handled with discretion, focusing more on emotional depth than explicit scenes. There is minimal profanity, and the plot centers on the unfolding supernatural mystery rather than explicit adult themes. As a result, the series is suitable for older teens and readers who enjoy paranormal fiction with a mix of action, romance, and intrigue without being overwhelmed by graphic content. It's a good choice for families looking for an exciting, yet family-friendly supernatural adventure with a touch of romance.
(mild romantic elements, minimal swearing, and no explicit sexual content or graphic violence)
AUTHOR ELYSE DOUGLAS
TIME LOST
In 1953, a mother's routine drive home is transformed into a time-travel odyssey, when the light from a mysterious spacecraft hurls her and her car to 2023, setting in motion a series of extraordinary events and a life-and-death decision.
On a serene night in 1953, Sally Mason, a dedicated wife and mother of two, drives a twisting road on her way home from night school. Suddenly, a mysterious bluish-white light descends over the road.
Terrified, Sally slams on the brakes. After a flash of bright light nearly blinds her, she passes out, awakening to the persistent knock of a police officer on her car window. When she sees the officer and remembers her frightening experience, she screams and faints, and is rushed to the hospital.
What Sally does not know, and what the police eventually and reluctantly conclude, is that Sally and her car have been hurled ahead in time from 1953 to 2023.
Driven by the urgency to reunite with her children, Sally is forced to confront the reason for her time leap journey, and to grapple with a life-and-death decision.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Time Lost by Elyse Douglas and its companion books in the Time Travel Journal series may be a great pick for families who enjoy historical fiction blended with time-travel adventure and light romance. The series is known for its engaging storytelling, rich historical detail, and emotionally driven plotlines that don’t rely on explicit content to captivate readers. While romance is a part of the narrative, it stays clean and appropriate, with no graphic sexual content—just tender moments and emotional connections that deepen character development. The time-travel element adds excitement and intrigue without delving into overly dark or violent territory, making it appealing to both teens and adults looking for an uplifting, thoughtful read. For families who are cautious about content, this series is a fairly safe choice. There may be occasional mild language or implied intimacy, but nothing explicit or inappropriate for a young teen audience. Readers looking for a clean yet emotionally resonant story with strong character arcs and a gentle romantic thread will find Time Lost a satisfying option. However, those seeking fast-paced action or fantasy-style adventure may find the pace a bit more reflective and rooted in character growth. Overall, it’s a thoughtful, wholesome series that can be enjoyed across generations.
(light sexual innuendo, some swearing, and moderate fantasy violence.)
AUTHOR DAVE DUNCAN
PILLAR OF DARKNESS
A mysterious adventure awaits nine strangers who venture inside a dangerous region that defies science, in this novel by an award-winning author.
Thirty years ago, a terrifying anomaly known as Sungoback appeared over North Africa. Two hundred miles wide, the mysterious zone manifests as a pillar of darkness during the day and as a pillar of light at night. There is no telling what secrets it holds inside, as it defies science and destroys technology. Entering Sungoback is considered tantamount to suicide since most who do so are never seen again.
Now, nine strangers are headed to Sungoback. Each has their own motive for risking everything to enter. They should hope they don’t all share the same fate inside . . .
Praise for Dave Duncan
“For panache, style, and sheer storytelling audacity, Duncan has few peers.” —Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
“Dave Duncan knows how to spin a ripping good yarn.” —SFReviews.net
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Pillar of Darkness by Dave Duncan might be a good choice for readers who enjoy classic fantasy with thoughtful world-building, moral complexity, and a dash of philosophical exploration. The story follows a compelling journey through a strange, boundary-testing landscape, where characters must make difficult choices about power and belief. The violence is moderate and more in line with standard fantasy fare—action-driven but not overly graphic. There is some mild swearing and occasional suggestive references, but nothing that dominates the narrative or feels gratuitous. These elements are woven into the broader themes of the book and tend to enhance character development rather than distract from it. That said, the book may not be the best fit for families looking for clean reads free from mature content. While there’s no explicit sexual content, some scenes include innuendo or brief references to intimate situations. Additionally, the deeper moral and philosophical themes might be more suitable for readers who can engage with ambiguity and layered ideas, rather than those looking for a light, straightforward adventure. For families who prefer content that avoids swearing or even mild sensuality, this may not align with their preferences—but for others, it can spark thought-provoking discussion and offer a rich reading experience.