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Layla is anything but normal. Her kiss will kill anything with a soul—including gorgeous Zayne, who she's crushed on since forever.
It’s an ordinary Thursday morning for Arthur Dent . . . until his house gets demolished. After that, things get much, much worse.
Desperate and alone, India Steele must navigate danger, secrets, and a mysterious American employer whose enigmatic watch may hold the key to survival—and love.
Layla is anything but normal. Her kiss will kill anything with a soul—including gorgeous Zayne, who she's crushed on since forever.
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VAMPIRES
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At a Glance
(mild profanity, brief kisses and implied romance, moderate vampire-related violence)
Editor's
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AUTHOR CATE LAWLEY
VEGAN VAMP
Undead and vegan? Not the afterlife this girl had planned.
Waking up thin is one thing. But waking up gaunt, hangry,and undead makes for a very bad day. Mallory's killer better hide, because she's just discovered blood, meat, and dairy don't agree with her, and a future with no cheese is grim indeed. She's out to find her killer...and maybe a vegan cheese that doesn't melt her nose hairs.
Click to see how Mallory conquers a killer hunger while hunting a deadly vampire.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Adventures of a Vegan Vamp by Cate Lawley could be a fun and safe pick for families who enjoy lighthearted paranormal stories with a cozy mystery twist. The book follows Mallory, a recently turned vampire trying to navigate her new undead life while solving supernatural crimes—and staying true to her vegan principles. It's full of humor, quirky characters, and clever plotlines. Romance is present but mild, featuring only light kissing and no explicit sexual content. The vampire-themed violence, like murder investigations and magical threats, is handled in a cozy-mystery style—more suggestive than graphic—and the occasional swearing is soft and infrequent. However, this series might not be the best fit for readers who prefer serious or gritty supernatural stories. The tone leans more whimsical than intense, which could disappoint those seeking high-stakes drama or emotional depth. Additionally, some families might be cautious about the vampire and witchcraft elements, even though they’re portrayed in a humorous, almost cartoonish way. While it’s not completely free of mature themes (such as murder and danger), the way they’re presented keeps things light and suitable for teens and adults looking for a paranormal escape without heavy content.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Vamp by Cate Lawley.
Does this book contain romance? Romance is present but tends to stay light and secondary to the paranormal cozy-mystery plot (small romantic tension and relationship hints rather than a heavy romance arc). Is there explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene? No clear evidence of explicit/open-door sex appears in the available content notes; it is commonly described as “sweet”/low-heat with no explicit sex. How much violence is in the book? As a vampire mystery, it involves death/crime investigation elements and blood-related vampire content; reader-tagged warnings also flag violence/blood/gore and murder/injury detail, though intensity can vary by reader sensitivity. Does this book contain swearing? Some cataloging/reader sources describe it as having little to no profanity; however, a precise, scene-by-scene language breakdown is not consistently available from accessible sources. Is this book part of a series? Yes. It is Book 1 in Cate Lawley’s Vegan Vamp Mysteries series (multiple installments plus holiday/omnibus editions). If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? There is not strong, consistent public documentation showing a shift to explicit sexual content later; the series is generally positioned as paranormal “cozy,” suggesting it tends to stay low-heat rather than becoming open-door.
(mild language and brief mentions of sensual thoughts)
AUTHOR MICHELLE MADOW
THE VAMPIRE WISH
He’s a vampire prince. She’s a human blood slave. They should be enemies… but uniting might be their only hope to prevent a supernatural war.
Annika never thought of herself as weak—until the day vampires murdered her parents and kidnapped her from our world to the hidden vampire kingdom of the Vale.
As a brand new blood slave, Annika must learn to survive her dangerous new circumstances… or face imminent death from the monstrous wolves prowling outside the Vale’s enchanted walls. But not all in the kingdom is as it appears, and when a handsome vampire disguised as a human steps into her life, Annika discovers that falling for the enemy is sometimes too tempting to resist.
Especially when becoming a vampire might be her only chance to gain the strength she needs to escape the Vale.
Enter the magical world of the Vale in The Vampire Wish, the first book in an addictive new series that fans of The Vampire Diaries and A Shade of Vampire will love!
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Vampire Wish by Michelle Madow is an exciting fantasy novel that blends romance, action, and a touch of the supernatural in an engaging way, making it an ideal choice for young adult readers. The book follows the journey of a young girl who is thrust into a world of vampires and mystical challenges, offering an intriguing mix of adventure and emotional depth. The story explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery, which provide valuable lessons for readers. Its supernatural elements are compelling but not overwhelming, keeping the focus on the characters’ personal growth and the relationships that develop throughout the book. In terms of content, the book is relatively tame, with no explicit sexual content and only mild language. There are some moments of danger and suspense, but the violence is minimal and appropriate for a teen audience. The romance is sweet and slow-building, without being overly explicit or graphic, focusing more on the emotional connection between the characters. This makes it a good option for families seeking a fantasy novel that balances thrilling plot twists with positive themes of love and courage, all while avoiding excessive mature content.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Vampire Wish by Michelle Madow.
Does this book contain romance? Yes. Romance is a major thread from the start: the heroine is kidnapped into a vampire kingdom, and a “handsome vampire” enters her life, creating strong enemies-to-lovers style tension alongside the fantasy plot. Is there explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene? No. Available content notes describe only mild sexual references, with no indication of on-page explicit/open-door sex scenes. How much violence is in the book? Violence and danger are significant: the heroine’s parents are murdered, she is abducted and enslaved, and the story involves life-or-death threats (including predatory creatures) and escalating conflict tied to supernatural power struggles/war. Some reader content notes describe the violence as sometimes bloody. Does this book contain swearing? Language appears limited-to-moderate in the most accessible content notes; one detailed reader content note specifically mentions no F-bombs. Is this book part of a series? Yes. It is Book 1 in the Dark World: The Vampire Wish series (with multiple sequels). If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? Reliable public content notes point more to higher stakes and darker conflict (palace intrigue, revenge plots, and eventually war) rather than a shift into explicit sex; accessible notes still characterize the sexual content as mild rather than open-door.
(features light romantic tension, mild kissing, and vampire-themed humor, with minimal violence and no explicit sexual content or strong language)
AUTHOR MARI MANCUSI
BOYS THAT BITE
Two sisters--as different as the sun and the rain. For one, getting into the Blood Coven is to die for. But for the other, getting out could be lethal. Sunny MacDonald doesn't know what to expect when she's dragged to Club Fang by her twin sister Rayne. But the the devastatingly handsome vampire Magnus mistakes her for her goth-loving twin and bites her on the neck, she realizes his fangs are all too real...and all too deadly. Now Sunny and Magnus find themselves in a race against time to find a way to reverse the bite before Sunny becomes a vampire forever. Something she definitely doesn't want--even if does mean spending eternity with a certain boy who bites... "If you liked Buffy and Angel, you will love this." -- Eternal Night "Delightful Surprising, and engaging. You'll get bitten and love it!" -- Rachel Caine, NYT Bestselling author of the Morganville Vampire series.
Why this book may be a good or bad choice for you and/or your family...
Boys That Bite by Mari Mancusi could be a great choice for readers and families looking for a fun, lighthearted vampire story without the heavy, graphic content that sometimes comes with the genre. The book leans more into humor, teen drama, and a playful take on the supernatural rather than anything dark or overly intense. Romance is present, but it’s kept sweet and very tame—mostly flirting and a few kisses—without any explicit sexual scenes. The language is mild, and while there is some vampire-related action, it’s not graphic or frightening, making it very accessible for younger teens or anyone who enjoys paranormal stories with a lighter tone. On the flip side, families looking for deeper themes or complex character development might find Boys That Bite a little fluffy. It's written more for entertainment than for exploring big life questions or emotional growth. Also, even though the romance is mild, some parents might prefer to know that dating and boy-focused drama are major elements of the plot. Still, considering the overall lightness of the content—no graphic violence, no strong swearing, and only mild romantic interactions—this series would generally be a safe, fun pick for young teen readers who want a breezy, enjoyable vampire adventure without heavy mature themes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Boys That Bite by Mari Mancusi.
Does this book contain romance? Yes. Romantic tension is a major through-line, with prom-week relationship drama, attraction to a vampire love interest, and a human crush complicating choices and loyalties. Is there explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene? No open-door sex scenes are clearly documented in widely available summaries, but the book does include sexualized teen talk and innuendo (including references to virginity and sexual experience) and “hot” make-out/neck-bite intimacy that is framed as both romantic and vampiric. How much violence is in the book? Moderate, genre-typical vampire violence: an on-page bite/turning threat, vampire feeding and blood elements, danger from rival vampires, and action tied to a quest to reverse the transformation. It is more brisk and comedic than graphic, but it still involves lethal stakes. Does this book contain swearing? The language is written in a snarky teen voice with slang and some “immature” phrasing; however, a precise, consistently sourced profanity breakdown is not readily available from major public content guides. Is this book part of a series? Yes. It is Book 1 in Mari Mancusi’s Blood Coven Vampire series. If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? Across the series, relationship drama and romantic intensity continue, and at least some later entries are noted as taking a darker, bloodier turn in tone and stakes; however, publicly accessible sources do not provide a reliable, book-by-book confirmation that sexual content becomes “open-door” explicit.
(contains romance, sensual content, violence, underage drinking, and occasional swearing)
AUTHOR RICHELLE MEAD
VAMPIRE ACADEMY (BOOK 1)
Hello My Name Is Rose Hathaway tracks the shenanigans that ensue when Rose and Dimitri become unlikely teammates in a high-stakes scavenger hunt...
Lissa Dragomir is a Moroi princess: a mortal vampire with a rare gift for harnessing the earth's magic. She must be protected at all times from Strigoi; the fiercest vampires--the ones who never die. The powerful blend of human and vampire blood that flows through Rose Hathaway, Lissa's best friend, makes her a Dhampir. Rose is dedicated to a dangerous life of protecting Lissa from Strigoi, who are hell-bent on making Lissa one of them.
After two years of freedom, Rose and Lissa are caught and dragged back to St. Vladimir’s Academy, where vampire royalty and their guardians-to-be prepare for a life fraught with danger. Rose and Lissa must navigate their treacherous world and never once let their guard down, lest the evil undead make Lissa one of them forever. But soon Rose finds herself gripped by temptation of forbidden love, leaving Lissa exposed to Strigoi attack. Now she must choose between the best friend she lives for, and the man she can't live without….
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead is an engaging and thrilling series that blends supernatural adventure, friendship, and personal growth, making it an excellent choice for readers who enjoy a mix of fantasy and coming-of-age themes. The series follows Rose Hathaway, a half-vampire, half-human guardian-in-training, and her best friend Lissa Dragomir, a royal vampire. Together, they navigate the challenges of a world filled with vampire politics, dark secrets, and life-or-death stakes. The series explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and self-discovery, all while keeping readers hooked with fast-paced action and emotional depth. It’s a great pick for fans of supernatural stories that balance adventure with personal development. While Vampire Academy contains moments of romantic tension and some mature content, the sexual themes are not overly explicit. The series includes scenes with kissing, some intimate moments, and implied sexual activity, but it is not graphic or explicit in nature. The focus is more on the emotional connection and struggles of the characters rather than detailed physicality. The books also include some violence, dark themes, and mild language, which are appropriate for older teens and readers who can handle these mature themes. Overall, the series offers an exciting, emotionally resonant story with a balance of action, romance, and character growth that makes it a good choice for readers ready for more mature content in a supernatural context.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead.
Does this book contain romance? Yes. Romance is a major element alongside the school drama and danger, including a strong attraction/relationship arc for Rose and additional romantic subplots for other characters. Is there explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene? No explicit, open-door sex scenes are emphasized in major parent guides; content concerns are more about sexual situations/innuendo, suggestive teen behavior, and the “sexy” tone than graphic on-page sex. How much violence is in the book? Moderate-to-strong for YA paranormal: vampire attacks, blood/feeding, fights, injuries, and death threats are part of the story’s core conflict, though it’s typically not written as relentless gore-horror. Does this book contain swearing? Yes. Strong language is specifically flagged by parent guides and is more than occasional. Is this book part of a series? Yes. Vampire Academy is the first book in a six-novel series, followed by Frostbite, Shadow Kiss, Blood Promise, Spirit Bound, and Last Sacrifice. If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? Later books generally intensify the stakes (more danger, higher emotional/romantic drama) rather than shifting into explicitly graphic sexual content; the overall content profile is commonly treated as “teen-plus” across the franchise.
(violence and sensual kissing)
AUTHOR STEPHENIE MEYER
TWILIGHT (BOOK 1)
Isabella Swan's move to Forks, a small, perpetually rainy town in Washington, could have been the most boring move she ever made. But once she meets the mysterious and alluring Edward Cullen, Isabella's life takes a thrilling and terrifying turn. Up until now, Edward has managed to keep his vampire identity a secret in the small community he lives in, but now nobody is safe, especially Isabella, the person Edward holds most dear. The lovers find themselves balanced precariously on the point of a knife-between desire and danger.Deeply romantic and extraordinarily suspenseful, Twilight captures the struggle between defying our instincts and satisfying our desires. This is a love story with bite.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer is a captivating and romantic blend of supernatural drama and coming-of-age themes, making it a great choice for readers who enjoy engaging, character-driven stories with an otherworldly twist. The series follows Bella Swan, a teenage girl who falls in love with Edward Cullen, a mysterious vampire. The books explore themes of love, sacrifice, and personal growth, set against a backdrop of supernatural danger and intrigue. With its focus on Bella's emotional journey and her relationships with the people around her, the series is a compelling read for those who enjoy romance with a hint of fantasy and suspense. While the Twilight series includes romantic and emotional tension, the sexual content is relatively mild compared to other adult or YA novels. There are some implied sexual situations and passionate kissing between Bella and Edward, particularly in the later books, but the physical intimacy is not graphic or explicit. The most significant romantic moment comes with their wedding night, where the couple’s intimacy is implied, but the scene focuses more on the emotional connection rather than explicit details. The series also touches on themes of jealousy, danger, and difficult choices, making it suitable for readers who can handle the mature emotional content, without delving into graphic or explicit sexual material.
Frequently Asked Questions About Twilight by Stephenie Meyer.
Does this book contain romance? Yes. Romance is central, with a strong focus on Bella and Edward’s intense, “forbidden” relationship, including frequent romantic longing, flirting, and passionate kissing; the relationship dynamic is also often described as possessive/obsessive. Is there explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene? No. Twilight itself does not include an open-door sex scene; sensual content is mainly passionate kissing and romantic/physical tension rather than on-page sex. How much violence is in the book? Moderate and plot-relevant: vampire predation and attacks, a violent confrontation near the end, and injuries/blood are present (including blood loss and medical treatment), though it is not written as continuous gore-horror. Does this book contain swearing? Limited. The language is generally mild, with a few uses of words like “damn” and “hell.” Is this book part of a series? Yes. Twilight is the first book in the Twilight saga (followed by New Moon, Eclipse, and Breaking Dawn, with later companion books in the same world). If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? Yes in maturity/intensity: later entries increase relationship/sexual tension and become more violent; Breaking Dawn includes married sex (not described in graphic detail), and later books can feature bloodier, more brutal vampire conflict (including dismemberment in Eclipse).
(contains mild romance, brief sensual content, fantasy violence, and occasional swearing)
AUTHOR CHLOE NEILL
WILD HUNGER (BOOK 1)
In the first thrilling installment of Chloe Neill's spinoff to the New York Times bestselling Chicagoland Vampires series, a new vampire will find out just how deep blood ties run.
As the only vampire child ever born, some believed Elisa Sullivan had all the luck. But the magic that helped bring her into the world left her with a dark secret. Shifter Connor Keene, the only son of North American Central Pack Apex Gabriel Keene, is the only one she trusts with it. But she's a vampire and the daughter of a Master and a Sentinel, and he's prince of the Pack and its future king.
When the assassination of a diplomat brings old feuds to the fore again, Elisa and Connor must choose between love and family, between honor and obligation, before Chicago disappears forever.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Chloe Neill’s Wild Hunger series offers an engaging mix of supernatural intrigue, adventure, and personal growth, making it a great choice for readers who enjoy strong, relatable characters in a world filled with both danger and magic. Set in a post-apocalyptic version of Chicago, the series follows the journey of the protagonist, Julie, who is discovering her own powers and grappling with her vampire heritage. As she navigates the complexities of her supernatural world, Julie also faces challenges in her personal life, including the development of new relationships and the responsibility that comes with her newfound abilities. This balance of action, mystery, and emotional growth makes the Wild Hunger series both exciting and emotionally resonant. While Wild Hunger includes romantic and action-packed moments, the sexual content is relatively mild. The series features some passionate moments and implied intimacy, particularly between Julie and the male lead, but the scenes are not graphic or explicit. The focus is more on character dynamics, emotional connection, and the tension between Julie's responsibilities and her desires. Additionally, there is some violence, mild language, and darker themes regarding power, loyalty, and identity, but the content is suitable for readers who enjoy supernatural tales with a blend of romance and personal development, without the focus being on explicit or graphic material.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wild Hunger by Chloe Neill.
Does this book contain romance? Yes. Romance is an important element of the story, developing alongside the supernatural mystery and political tensions. The relationship between Elisa and Connor includes emotional intimacy, romantic tension, and partnership dynamics, consistent with adult urban fantasy. Is there explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene? The book includes on-page romantic and sensual moments consistent with adult paranormal romance. However, available reviews do not consistently document graphic, highly explicit scenes. Readers can expect consensual intimacy and sexual tension rather than extreme or detailed explicit content. How much violence is in the book? Violence is moderate to strong and typical of adult urban fantasy. The plot centers around a supernatural murder investigation, political unrest, and confrontations involving vampires, werewolves, and other magical beings. Blood, injury, and lethal stakes are present. Does this book contain swearing? Yes. The tone includes modern, snarky dialogue with profanity appropriate to adult urban fantasy. Language is noticeable but not generally described as excessive. Is this book part of a series? Yes. Wild Hunger is Book 1 in the Heirs of Chicagoland series, a next-generation continuation of the Chicagoland Vampires universe. If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? The series maintains an adult urban fantasy tone with ongoing romantic development and supernatural violence. Available public information suggests consistency in mature themes rather than a dramatic escalation into significantly more explicit sexual content.
(contains moderate fantasy violence, occasional strong language, and mild romantic elements without explicit sexual content)
AUTHOR MELISSA NICOLE
BLOOD AND BONBONS (BOOK 1)
Resolution One: Never go hiking again.
Resolution Two: Don’t bleed on any more hibernating vampires.
An impromptu hike sends Everly toppling gracelessly into a vampire cave. The surly, tall, and devastatingly handsome vampire isn’t interested in the bonbons Everly offers to make amends for waking him. He’d rather have Everly…help him adapt to the modern world, of course.
However, after one of her friends disappears, Everly abandons Cross's lessons and asks for his help navigating the Shadow Trade world instead. Filled with supernatural creatures of every sort, it’s a place she never wanted to enter. A single misstep could cost Everly her life. But she’ll risk anything to keep the people she cares about safe.
With sugary bribes, ancient artifacts, mysterious tattoos, and extremely sexy supernaturals, Blood and Bonbons is the next must-read paranormal romance/ urban fantasy/cozy mystery blend of the year.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Blood and Bonbons by Melissa Nicole offers a blend of urban fantasy, mystery, and light romance, making it an engaging read for fans of supernatural adventures. The story follows Everly, a relatable college student who inadvertently awakens a centuries-old vampire, leading her into a world filled with ancient artifacts, supernatural politics, and enigmatic characters. The narrative is infused with humor and intrigue, and while there are flirtatious moments and hints of a developing love triangle, any sexual content remains non-explicit. The book contains moderate fantasy violence and occasional strong language, aligning with its urban fantasy genre. However, families seeking content with minimal violence or language might find this series less appropriate. The themes of death, vengeance, and moral ambiguity are explored through intense action sequences and complex character dynamics. While the supernatural elements add intrigue, the darker aspects of the story may not align with all readers' preferences. Therefore, it's best suited for those comfortable with mature themes and looking for a compelling urban fantasy adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blood and Bonbons by Melissa Nicole.
Does this book contain romance? Yes. The premise is built around Everly accidentally waking a “devastatingly handsome” vampire and then working closely with him, and at least one detailed review describes the romance as slow-burn flirting with multiple possible love-interest directions (love triangle vibe), rather than one clear couple. Is there explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene? The marketing leans “sexy supernaturals,” but at several reviews describe the romance as flirting, clean, slow burn, and touch of romance, implying there is mild sensuality. How much violence is in the book? Moderate, genre-typical urban-fantasy danger: a friend goes missing, strangers pursue the heroine, and a review notes murders occurring near the nightclub where she works, alongside high-stakes supernatural threats. Does this book contain swearing? Specific, reliably sourced profanity counts or examples are not consistently available in the accessible reviews and listings. Based on its urban-fantasy/paranormal-romance positioning, some modern language is plausible, but it cannot be confirmed with high confidence from the sources consulted. Is this book part of a series? Yes. It is Book 1 in the Shadow Trade: The Ruin of Relics series (with subsequent titles commonly listed as Fangs and Fudge, Death and Donuts, and Magic and Muffins). If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? There is not enough consistently documented, book-by-book content reporting in accessible sources to confirm whether later installments become more sexually explicit; series listings clarify continuation titles, but do not reliably specify an escalation in sexual explicitness. The reader should proceed with caution.
(contains moderate fantasy violence, occasional strong language, and mild romantic elements)
AUTHOR MELISSA F. OLSON
BOUNDARY CROSSED (BOOK 1)
After her twin sister’s brutal murder, former US Army Sergeant Allison “Lex” Luther vowed to protect her niece, Charlie. So when two vampires try to kidnap the baby, it quickly turns into a fight to the death—Lex’s death, that is.
She wakes up to two shocking discoveries: she has miraculously survived the fight, and baby Charlie is a “null,” gifted with the ability to weaken supernatural forces...and a target for creatures who want to control that power. Determined to guarantee her niece’s safety, Lex makes a deal with the local vampires. She sets out with the mysterious—and undead—“fixer” Quinn to track down whoever’s responsible for the kidnapping, sharpening her newfound magic skills along the way. But the closer she gets to the truth, the more dangerous her powers become.
Boundary Crossed is a dark, thrilling journey into a world where the line between living and dead isn’t nearly as solid as it appears...
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Boundary Crossed by Melissa F. Olson could be a great pick for families and readers who enjoy fast-paced urban fantasy with a resourceful female lead, supernatural intrigue, and only light romance. The romance is subtle—limited to an occasional kiss—and romance isn’t central . Content-wise, there’s minimal swearing and no explicit sexual scenes, keeping the tone appropriate for readers who prefer clean fantasy. The strong female protagonist, her bond with her niece, and the clever mix of ghosts, vampires, and witches make for engaging, character-driven storytelling without gratuitous content. On the downside, the book includes moderate violence—kidnapping, vampire attacks, and magical duels—that may be unsettling for more sensitive readers. Themes of death and emotional trauma are present (including PTSD from the hero’s military past and loss), which could be emotionally heavy for some. While the language is generally mild, occasional strong profanity appears (around 15 uses of the F‑word in the first book) . Overall, it’s a good fit for mature teens and adults seeking thrilling urban fantasy with light romance—but may be too intense for families seeking purely light or gentle reads.
Frequently Asked Questions About Boundary Crossed by Melissa F. Olson.
Does this book contain romance? Romance is present but not the main focus; the story is primarily an urban-fantasy mystery/thriller with a “touch” of romantic interest and tension rather than a romance-forward plot. Is there explicit sexual content or an open-door sex scene? No. Public content tagging for the book generally places it at a very low “spice” level (kisses/glimpses rather than explicit sex), with no strong evidence of open-door scenes in Book 1. How much violence is in the book? Violence is a significant element: the backstory involves a brutal murder, and the main plot includes attempted kidnapping, vampire attacks, and fights that can turn lethal; it is often flagged with violence-related content warnings by readers. Does this book contain swearing? Some adult language is likely, but a reliable, book-specific profanity breakdown is not consistently documented in widely accessible content guides for Boundary Crossed; readers should expect at least occasional profanity typical of adult urban fantasy. Is this book part of a series? Yes. Boundary Crossed is Book 1 in the Boundary Magic series (part of Melissa F. Olson’s broader “Old World” setting). If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? There is no strong, consistent evidence that the series shifts into high-explicitness sexually; series descriptions and low-spice tagging suggest it tends to remain more plot-driven than sexually graphic, while danger and violence-related stakes continue.
(action and mild violence (fae vs vampires), hints of sexual tension and casual adult relationships, and little swearing)
AUTHOR KRISTEN PAINTER
HOUSE OF THE RISING SUN (BOOK 1)
Every vampire has heard rumor of the mythical place where their kind can daywalk. But what no vampire knows is that this City of Eternal Night actually exists.
And its name is New Orleans.
For centuries, the fae have protected the city from vampire infestation. But when the bloodsuckers return, the fragile peace in New Orleans begins to crumble.
Carefree playboy Augustine, and Harlow, a woman searching for answers about her absent father, are dragged into the war. The fate of the city rests on them --- and their fae blood that can no longer be denied.
Book one in the brand new, action-packed urban fantasy Crescent City series, from award winning, House of Comarre author Kristen Painter!
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
This book can be a fun urban-fantasy adventure for readers who enjoy supernatural worlds and mystery, with a slow-burn romance between Augustine and Harlow that stays mostly implied rather than graphic, and plenty of action, world-building, and character growth as the protagonists face vampires and personal challenges together. The relationship between Harlow and Augustine develops amid their shared struggles and the unfolding danger, and while there’s attraction and hints of intimacy, explicit sexual scenes are not the focus in the first book — the emphasis is more on plot and fantasy conflict than steamy content. That said, parents might object to some elements of this series, because it includes urban-fantasy violence (fae versus vampires and other dangerous encounters), a protagonist with a promiscuous past and implied adult relationships, and thematic material about war, identity, and danger that may feel intense to sensitive readers; while explicit sex scenes aren’t prominent, there’s mature thematic content and adult tension that may not be ideal for younger or more sheltered readers, so families who prefer “clean” fantasy with minimal suggestion of adult romance might find it a less suitable choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About House of the Rising Sun by Kristen Painter.
Does this book contain romance? Yes. The story is primarily gothic urban fantasy set in New Orleans, but it includes a developing romantic thread alongside the supernatural plot and escalating conflict in the city. The relationship elements lean more toward attraction, banter, and slow-build emotional tension than toward a romance-first structure. Is there explicit sensual content or an open-door sex scene? The romantic content is generally restrained. Sources discussing the series’ approach describe the sensuality as “tame” and more focused on tension and buildup than explicit on-page detail. Readers looking for high-heat or frequent explicit scenes generally do not cite this series as providing that. How much violence is in the book? There is noticeable action and supernatural conflict, including vampire-related threats and attacks, and the overall tone supports an “action-packed” urban fantasy feel. Some library-style summaries for the title/record also flag violence content (along with language), suggesting it is more than “cozy” levels, though it is typically framed as genre-typical fantasy violence rather than graphic horror. Does this book contain swearing? Some profanity/strong language is present, but it is not typically described as constant throughout. A library listing for the title notes strong language, indicating at least occasional swearing rather than none. Is this book part of a series? Yes. House of the Rising Sun is Book 1 in Kristen Painter’s Crescent City series (often described as a trilogy), followed by City of Eternal Night and Garden of Dreams and Desires. If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? The series is generally described as staying on the milder side sexually, with romantic tension and “slow sizzle” rather than explicit, frequent open-door scenes. Commentary about later entries also commonly describes the overall tone as relatively “PG” compared with steam-forward paranormal romance.
(violence, mild sensual content, and supernatural elements)
AUTHOR KRISTEN PAINTER
SUCKS TO BE ME (BOOK 1)
When 49-year-old Belladonna Barrone’s mobbed up husband does her the favor of dying in a car accident, she thinks she’s finally free of the crime family she unwittingly married into. Then the boss tells her that she has to complete her husband’s last job before that freedom is truly hers.
No big deal, she figures. Until things go south in ways she never imagined. Suddenly she’s thrust into a whole new world that makes the mob look like kindergarten. Vampires and werewolves are real? How is that freaking possible?
Her dreams of a new life disappear faster than wine at book club as more problems arise from her husband’s dark dealings and the unbelievable complications caused by her supernatural entanglements. Only her strength and determination (and some wild new friends) will see her through this next chapter, but the odds are against her.
How much more can her life suck? She’s about to find out…
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Kristen Painter's series is a fun and lighthearted blend of supernatural elements, humor, and personal growth, making it a great choice for readers who enjoy a quirky take on vampire lore. The series follows the protagonist, Mina, a teenager who discovers that she is the heir to a vampire family, throwing her life into chaos. As she navigates her new reality, Mina faces the typical challenges of growing up—relationships, self-discovery, and finding her place in the world—while also grappling with the unique hurdles of her vampire heritage. The series is full of wit, adventure, and family dynamics, making it both entertaining and relatable, especially for fans of urban fantasy with a humorous twist. While Sucks to Be Me features romantic elements, the sexual content is relatively mild and not the focus of the story. There are some flirtatious moments and kissing scenes, but the romance is mostly light and playful, with no explicit or graphic sexual scenes. The series is more focused on Mina’s journey of self-discovery and her humorous take on the supernatural world she now inhabits. There are also some action sequences, mild language, and themes of family loyalty and personal responsibility, but the content remains appropriate for younger readers who enjoy a fun, supernatural adventure with a relatable protagonist and light-hearted romance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sucks to Be Me by Kristen Painter
Does this book contain romance? Yes. Sucks to Be Me includes a light romantic thread appropriate to its young adult audience. The story centers on a teenage girl who discovers she must choose whether to become a vampire, and part of that journey involves navigating normal high school relationships alongside supernatural complications. Romantic elements focus on attraction, emotional confusion, and teen relationship dynamics rather than intense or mature romantic development. The romance supports the coming-of-age storyline rather than dominating it. Is there explicit sensual content or an open-door sex scene? No. The book is written for a teen audience and does not include explicit sexual content or open-door intimacy. Romantic interactions are limited to mild kissing and teen-level affection. The tone remains firmly in the young adult category, with boundaries that align with mainstream YA paranormal fiction. How much violence is in the book? Violence is present but generally mild and non-graphic. As a vampire-themed story, it includes references to blood, feeding, and supernatural danger. There are moments of tension and threat, but scenes are not described in graphic detail. The overall level of violence is moderate for paranormal young adult fiction and focuses more on emotional stakes and identity conflict than on brutality. Does this book contain swearing? There is some mild teenage language, but profanity is limited. Strong or frequent explicit language is not a defining feature of the book. The tone reflects contemporary teen dialogue without becoming heavily coarse. Is this book part of a series? Yes. Sucks to Be Me is the first book in Kristen Painter’s Broken Heart series (sometimes referred to as the “Teen” or “Next Generation” Broken Heart books), which is set in the same supernatural town as her adult paranormal romances but geared toward a younger audience. If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? The teen-focused installments maintain a young adult tone and do not shift into explicit sexual content. While emotional stakes and supernatural conflict may increase as the series progresses, the romantic and sensual elements remain age-appropriate. The broader Broken Heart universe includes adult paranormal romance titles that are more mature, but the teen-centered entries beginning with Sucks to Be Me remain consistent with YA standards.
(there is no sex, but there is some intense, violent scenes)
AUTHOR NELLIE PETERS
THE VAMPIRE'S MASQUERADE (BOOK 1)
Life sucks when your boss is a vampire...
I try to maintain some sense of normalcy - I graduated from college, work at my dad's publishing company, and write books with my three best friends.
But daily bouts of torment from my blood-sucking boss take my routine from humdrum to horrifying.
Add in some paranormal mind-control, an infuriatingly arrogant vamp, and a chance encounter with a member of society royalty, and you've got "Nora's Twisted Version of Reality." All I want is to publish my book and muster the courage to ask out my crush, but of course, fate has other plans for me. Instead of worrying about normal things like dating and book deals, my friends and I face an impending apocalypse as the Father of all Evil plots his ultimate revenge on the world.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Nellie Peters' The Vampire's Masquerade series offers a captivating mix of romance, mystery, and supernatural intrigue, making it an excellent choice for readers who enjoy a blend of fantasy with relatable character development. The story revolves around a young woman caught in a dangerous and fascinating world of vampires, secrets, and shifting alliances. As the protagonist navigates her new life, she must balance her relationships with both human and vampire characters, all while uncovering hidden truths about herself and the dark world she is now part of. The series provides a great mix of suspense, action, and emotional depth, making it an engaging read for those who enjoy supernatural stories with complex characters. While The Vampire's Masquerade includes some romantic and sensual moments, the sexual content is fairly mild. There are a few passionate kisses and implied intimacy, but the scenes are not graphic or explicit. The focus is more on the emotional connections between the characters and the developing relationships, rather than on physical details. The series also includes some violence and themes of betrayal, power, and identity, which add to the suspense without overwhelming the overall tone. This makes the Vampire's Masquerade series an excellent choice for readers who enjoy supernatural intrigue and romance but prefer content that remains relatively mild and focused on character-driven storytelling.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Vampire’s Masquerade by Nellie Peters
Does this book contain romance? Yes. The story is positioned as an urban fantasy romance with a clear romantic through-line (including a crush/relationship tension) woven into a larger supernatural plot involving vampires, social power dynamics, and escalating stakes. The tone is often described as “clean/no-spice,” suggesting the romance emphasis is on emotional chemistry, banter, and relationship development rather than explicit intimacy. Is there explicit sensual content or an open-door sex scene? No explicit, open-door sexual scenes are indicated in how the book is marketed and discussed publicly. The author’s own series description repeatedly frames the series for “no-spice” and “clean romance” readers, and third-party recommendation lists that focus specifically on “no spice” vampire books include this title. Expect romantic tension and attraction, but not graphic sexual detail. How much violence is in the book? Violence and danger are present at a meaningful level for an urban fantasy: the main character is harassed/targeted by vampires, mind-influencing paranormal elements are part of the conflict, and the plot escalates toward high-stakes “impending apocalypse” territory. Expect supernatural threats, attacks, and peril rather than a gentle/cozy tone; however, public descriptions do not emphasize extreme gore as the main appeal. Does this book contain swearing? Public-facing descriptions focus far more on “clean/no-spice” positioning than on language specifics, so it is difficult to quantify profanity from reliable open sources alone. Based on the book’s branding toward clean-romance readers, heavy or constant strong profanity is not typically the expectation; still, language sensitivity can vary by reader, and the safest approach is to anticipate at least occasional mild-to-moderate modern language during stressful scenes. Is this book part of a series? Yes. The Vampire’s Masquerade is Book 1 in the Paranormal Literary Society series. The series is written with an overarching, continuous plot, and later books continue directly from earlier events even when the narrators change. If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? The series is consistently branded for “no-spice/clean romance” audiences, and the author’s own series description continues to emphasize that positioning. That branding strongly suggests later books are unlikely to shift into explicit, open-door sexual content.
(teen crush romance (kissing), mild implied intimacy, moderate violence and gore, occasional profanity)
AUTHOR MORGAN RICE
WISH (BOOK 1)
"TURNED is a book to rival TWILIGHT and VAMPIRE DIARIES, and one that will have you wanting to keep reading until the very last page! If you are into adventure, love and vampires this book is the one for you!"
--Vampirebooksite.com
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Mistfalls Wilderness Camp is an awful place, a series of islands in the rainy Northwest, populated by delinquents and outcasts from their families. It is supposed to be a remedial place—but Taylor soon learns something else is happening here. They are training the kids here for something. But what?
These kids are all different, not normal somehow. And as Taylor herself goes through changes she doesn’t understand, she can’t help but wonder: is she different, too?
But when a mysterious boy comes along, unlike anyone she’s ever met, Taylor is shocked at the power of her crush, and ready to risk it all for him.
But will their forbidden love take them both down for good?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Wish by Morgan Rice is a gentle and magical young adult fantasy that centers on themes of love, hope, and self-discovery, making it a positive choice for readers who enjoy heartfelt, emotionally driven stories. The novel features a relatable protagonist navigating difficult family dynamics and personal loss, wrapped in a story of unexpected romance and a hint of the supernatural. Its clean language and absence of explicit content make it a generally safe pick for families who prefer stories without heavy profanity, graphic violence, or sexual situations. The book encourages empathy and resilience, making it suitable for readers looking for emotional depth without intense or dark material. However, the story does explore some heavier emotional themes, including grief, abandonment, and loneliness, which may be more impactful for sensitive readers. The romance is sweet and understated, with nothing more than light affection, making it appropriate for a wide age range. Parents or guardians may want to be aware of the emotional tone and ensure younger readers are prepared for those elements. Overall, Wish leans heavily toward the inspirational side of YA fantasy and is a good choice for those seeking a hopeful, clean read with a touch of magic.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wish by Morgan Rice
Does this book contain romance? Yes. Romance is a meaningful thread in the story, centered on a teen protagonist who develops a powerful crush/attraction to a mysterious boy while navigating a dangerous, supernatural situation at a wilderness “camp” for outcasts. The romantic arc is woven into the larger coming-of-age and paranormal plot rather than replacing it. Is there explicit sensual content or an open-door sex scene? The book is broadly positioned as young adult vampire/paranormal fantasy, and available descriptions emphasize first-love intensity, destiny, and sacrifice rather than explicit intimacy. Based on how the title is categorized and marketed publicly, open-door sex scenes are not a central feature; romantic content is more consistent with YA-level relationship focus. How much violence is in the book? Moderate, genre-typical paranormal danger. The setting involves a juvenile detention-style wilderness camp and ongoing threats tied to supernatural changes and secrets. Expect peril, confrontations, and scary situations rather than cozy stakes. Reader-supplied warnings for the title commonly mention bullying, physical harm, blood, and attempted murder elements, indicating that violence and cruelty are present even if the book is not typically marketed as graphic horror. Does this book contain swearing? Public listings and publisher-style blurbs focus more on plot than language specifics, so the exact intensity of profanity is not consistently documented in reliable open sources. Given the contemporary teen setting and “delinquents/outcasts” environment, some modern slang/strong language is a reasonable expectation, but it is best described as uncertain in frequency without a verified text-based breakdown. Is this book part of a series? Yes. Wish is Book 1 in Morgan Rice’s Wish series, which continues with titles such as Desire, Adore, and Thirst (and beyond). If it is a series, does it become more explicit in later books? Later entries continue the same overarching vampire/YA direction and branding of the series, and the publicly listed sequels suggest continuity of tone rather than a clear shift into explicit romance. However, later books can increase intensity in danger and relationship complications as plots escalate, even when sensual content remains restrained.