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WITCHES
Authors H
At a Glance
(light romance with closed-door intimacy, minimal swearing, and mild violence)
AUTHOR LINSEY HALL
THE MODERN GIRL'S GUIDE TO MAGIC
So here’s the deal—I’m a magical disaster. A witch from a family of witches, and the only one whose magic blows up in her face. Which is why I came up with my rules…
1. Never get involved with magic
2. If you must get involved, do not enter a competition to win the biggest magical fortune in England
3. And definitely don't fall for Callan Hawthorne, the sexy billionaire mage who you've hated for years
So how the heck do I end up in a situation that promises to break all those rules? It's the only way to save Seaside Spells, my family’s magical potion shop.
But it’s cool. When I go back home to Charming Cove—a village of ancient pubs and foul-mouthed familiars—I will totally ignore Witch Weekly’s Sexiest Man of the Year. I’ll win the competition, and if I’m lucky, I won’t turn myself into a toad in the process.
This'll be fine. It’ll all be fine.
Riiiight.
The Modern Girl’s Guide to Magic is a fun, frothy romantic comedy full of laughter, love, and magical hijinks. It’s the first in a series of stand alone romances set in the seaside village of Charming Cove.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Modern Girl’s Guide to Magic by Linsey Hall is an enchanting and lighthearted fantasy that mixes magic, romance, and humor, making it a fun and approachable read for young adults and adults alike. The protagonist, Charlotte, is a quirky, relatable woman who discovers she has magical abilities and is thrust into a world of supernatural creatures and intrigue. With the help of her friends, Charlotte navigates this new world while also managing her personal relationships and finding her place in a society where magic is real but hidden from the general public. The series is full of charming characters, witty dialogue, and plenty of action, making it a delightful escape into a world where magic is part of everyday life. In terms of content, The Modern Girl’s Guide to Magic is a great choice for readers looking for a fun, romantic, and slightly adventurous story. While the book contains some romantic tension between Charlotte and other characters, the sexual content is minimal and mostly limited to kissing and suggestive but non-explicit scenes. There’s no graphic content, making it appropriate for older teens and adults who enjoy a lighthearted fantasy without a focus on explicit themes. The series is more about magical adventures, friendship, and personal growth, with a touch of romance for those who like that added layer to their stories. Overall, it's a great pick for readers looking for a feel-good, magical series that isn't too heavy on dark themes.
(passionate kissing, dark magic, and violence)
AUTHOR DEBORAH HARKNESS
A DISCOVERY OF WITCHES
Deep in the stacks of Oxford's Bodleian Library, young scholar Diana Bishop unwittingly calls up a bewitched alchemical manuscript in the course of her research. Descended from an old and distinguished line of witches, Diana wants nothing to do with sorcery; so after a furtive glance and a few notes, she banishes the book to the stacks. But her discovery sets a fantastical underworld stirring, and a horde of daemons, witches, and vampires soon descends upon the library. Diana has stumbled upon a coveted treasure lost for centuries-and she is the only creature who can break its spell
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness is a captivating blend of history, romance, and fantasy, making it a great choice for readers who enjoy rich, detailed storytelling and complex characters. Set in an academic world, the novel follows Diana Bishop, a historian and reluctant witch, who discovers an ancient manuscript that draws the attention of witches, vampires, and daemons alike. This sparks a journey of self-discovery, magic, and danger as Diana enters a forbidden romance with the vampire Matthew Clairmont. The series, All Souls Trilogy, is well-crafted, weaving together historical fiction, supernatural elements, and an intriguing love story, making it a strong pick for those looking for a more mature and immersive fantasy series. In terms of content, A Discovery of Witches includes some sensual romance between Diana and Matthew, with a few intimate scenes. While the sexual content is not overly explicit, there are moments of passion that might be more appropriate for older teens and adults. The book is suitable for older teen readers who can appreciate a deeper, more nuanced exploration of love, power, and identity, but it may not be ideal for younger readers due to the romantic and occasional mature themes. Beyond the romance, the story explores themes of acceptance, family, and the complexities of relationships between different supernatural beings, offering a well-rounded and thought-provoking experience. If you're looking for a series with rich world-building, a bit of romance, and an engaging plot, A Discovery of Witches is a compelling choice.
(features mild violence, some strong language, and a slow-burn romance with no explicit scenes)
AUTHOR HEATHER G. HARRIS
HEX OF THE WITCH (BOOK 1)
*Completed Series*
It’s not paranoia when they are really out to get you…
I’m Amber, potion and rune mistress and all round witch extraordinaire. I’ve spent half my life building my career and I finally feel like greatness is within my grasp. I’ve been working on a special potion, a potion that could change everything for witches and wizards everywhere. Unfortunately some people are allergic to change and will stop at nothing to keep the status quo.
A price has been put on my head – and my enemies are coming for me. Vampyrs, ogres and black witches are gunning for me, and they want me dead by any means necessary. In their infinite wisdom, the coven council assigns me my very own griffin bodyguard – and of course, the one they assign is none other than my most hated enemy, Bastion.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Hex of the Witch is a compelling urban fantasy that balances magic, mystery, and romance in a way that can engage readers who enjoy character-driven stories with supernatural twists. The slow-burn romance between Amber and her griffin protector is handled with subtlety, avoiding explicit sexual content, which makes it a gentler choice for families seeking fantasy without graphic scenes. However, the book does include elements like assassination attempts, black magic, and some strong language, which add tension and depth but might feel intense for more sensitive readers or those preferring lighter fare. For families or readers who appreciate a darker, more mature fantasy world with complex characters and moral challenges, this series offers an intriguing experience. The presence of violence and darker themes means it’s best suited for readers comfortable with these topics and ready to explore a story that doesn’t shy away from conflict or difficult decisions. Overall, it’s a solid pick for those wanting a mix of fantasy adventure and romance without explicit adult content.
(mild slow‑burn romance with kisses and no explicit sex, light fantasy violence and secret‑society peril, minimal to no swearing)
AUTHOR BARBARA HARTZLER
MONTROSE PARANORMAL ACADEMY: THE NEXIS SECRET (BOOK 1)
Welcome to Montrose Paranormal Academy—where the Three Societies rule all.
Hi, I’m Lucy. And I just found out I’m not normal.
Three years ago my brother went missing in Europe without a word. I just have to play nice with the Three Societies long enough to dig up some dirt.
Before they figure out who I really am...
When two secret society leaders fight for my attention, it becomes harder to keep my supernatural talents under the radar.
Even though I’m drawn to the oh-so-dreamy captain of the Guardians, can I really trust him? He strictly adheres to the rules of the Guardians, but will he break his “good guy” code for me?
Big surprise, the charming, bad-boy president of the Nexis Society just won’t leave me alone. He seems to know about all the skeletons in my family’s closet. But has he figured out that I have hidden powers? And if so, who will he tell?
I didn’t bargain for this strange new world and my own crazy abilities. Am I really the Seer the Three Societies have been looking for?
Can I find my brother and master my surprise powers without getting caught?
I guess we’re about to find out.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Montrose Paranormal Academy offers a fun, lighthearted dive into a magical world filled with witches and supernatural mysteries, making it a great pick for readers who love gentle paranormal stories without heavy or graphic content. The romance is very mild and slow-building, limited mostly to sweet kisses and emotional connection rather than anything explicit. The book focuses on friendship, self-discovery, and adventure, with just enough suspense to keep things interesting without feeling overwhelming. For families looking for clean, age-appropriate fantasy with positive themes, this series fits nicely. If your family prefers stories with more action or darker, more intense themes, this book might feel a bit too tame or slow-paced. The stakes and conflicts are mostly low-key, and there’s little to no swearing or serious violence, which could leave readers wanting more excitement or depth. Also, if you’re looking for a paranormal series with complex or mature romantic relationships, this one keeps it very innocent and subtle, so it may not satisfy those expecting a stronger romantic plot.
(light and dark magic, violence)
Editor's
Favorite
AUTHOR RACHEL HAWKINS
HEX HALL
Three years ago, Sophie Mercer discovered that she was a witch. It's gotten her into a few scrapes. Her non-gifted mother has been as supportive as possible, consulting Sophie's estranged father—an elusive European warlock—only when necessary. But when Sophie attracts too much human attention for a prom-night spell gone horribly wrong, it's her dad who decides her punishment: exile to Hex Hall, an isolated reform school for wayward Prodigium, a.k.a. witches, faeries, and shapeshifters.
By the end of her first day among fellow freak-teens, Sophie has quite a scorecard: three powerful enemies who look like supermodels, a futile crush on a gorgeous warlock, a creepy tag-along ghost, and a new roommate who happens to be the most hated person and only vampire student on campus. Worse, Sophie soon learns that a mysterious predator has been attacking students, and her only friend is the number-one suspect.
As a series of blood-curdling mysteries starts to converge, Sophie prepares for the biggest threat of all: an ancient secret society determined to destroy all Prodigium, especially her.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Rachel Hawkins's Hex Hall and the series offer an engaging mix of magic, mystery, and humor that makes it a great choice for young adult readers and their families. The story follows Sophie Mercer, a teenage witch who is sent to a magical boarding school called Hex Hall after accidentally revealing her powers. The series is filled with action, witty dialogue, and relatable teen struggles, making it a compelling read for those who enjoy fantasy and coming-of-age stories. The themes of friendship, self-discovery, and belonging resonate with both younger and older readers, making it a great option for family reading or book discussions. Regarding content, Hex Hall is generally appropriate for younger teen readers. While there are some romantic elements in the story, the relationships are light and don't focus heavily on explicit sexual content. There are a few mild references to attraction and some kissing, but these moments are not graphic or inappropriate for the target age group. The series also includes some action and mild violence due to the supernatural elements, but it remains suitable for teens and families looking for a fun, engaging fantasy series without crossing into overly mature themes.
(contains racism, murder, terrorism, and mild profanity)
AUTHOR CHARLIE N. HOLMBERG
SPELLBREAKER
A world of enchanted injustice needs a disenchanting woman in an all-new fantasy series by the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of The Paper Magician.
The orphaned Elsie Camden learned as a girl that there were two kinds of wizards in the world: those who pay for the power to cast spells and those, like her, born with the ability to break them. But as an unlicensed magic user, her gift is a crime. Commissioned by an underground group known as the Cowls, Elsie uses her spellbreaking to push back against the aristocrats and help the common man. She always did love the tale of Robin Hood.
Elite magic user Bacchus Kelsey is one elusive spell away from his mastership when he catches Elsie breaking an enchantment. To protect her secret, Elsie strikes a bargain. She’ll help Bacchus fix unruly spells around his estate if he doesn’t turn her in. Working together, Elsie’s trust in—and fondness for—the handsome stranger grows. So does her trepidation about the rise in the murders of wizards and the theft of the spellbooks their bodies leave behind.
For a rogue spellbreaker like Elsie, there’s so much to learn about her powers, her family, the intriguing Bacchus, and the untold dangers shadowing every step of a journey she’s destined to complete. But will she uncover the mystery before it’s too late to save everything she loves?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Charlie N. Holmberg's Spellbreaker and the series present an intriguing fantasy world where magic and mystery intertwine, making it a wonderful choice for families and teen readers. The story centers around Elsie, a young woman with the ability to break magical spells, which sets her on an exciting and sometimes dangerous adventure. The novel offers a blend of action, magic, and mystery, with a strong heroine who navigates complex situations. The themes of personal growth, loyalty, and standing up for what’s right resonate deeply, making the book both entertaining and thought-provoking for younger readers and their families to enjoy together. In terms of content, Spellbreaker is appropriate for younger teen readers, with no explicit sexual content. The romance in the book is mild, focusing more on the emotional connection between characters rather than on physical intimacy. The primary elements of the story involve magic, action, and Elsie's journey, which keeps the book suitable for families looking for a clean yet engaging read. There are moments of peril and some violence due to the magical conflicts, but the overall tone is lighthearted enough for younger readers to enjoy without encountering mature themes.
(budding romance, some violence, and occasional mild swears)
Editor's
Favorite
AUTHOR CHARLIE N. HOLMBERG
THE PAPER MAGICIAN
“Charlie is a vibrant writer with an excellent voice and great world building. I thoroughly enjoyed the Paper Magician.” —Brandon Sanderson, author of Mistborn and The Way of Kings
Ceony Twill arrives at the cottage of Magician Emery Thane with a broken heart. Having graduated at the top of her class from the Tagis Praff School for the Magically Inclined, Ceony is assigned an apprenticeship in paper magic despite her dreams of bespelling metal. And once she’s bonded to paper, that will be her only magic…forever.
Yet the spells Ceony learns under the strange yet kind Thane turn out to be more marvelous than she could have ever imagined—animating paper creatures, bringing stories to life via ghostly images, even reading fortunes. But as she discovers these wonders, Ceony also learns of the extraordinary dangers of forbidden magic.
An Excisioner—a practitioner of dark, flesh magic—invades the cottage and rips Thane’s heart from his chest. To save her teacher’s life, Ceony must face the evil magician and embark on an unbelievable adventure that will take her into the chambers of Thane’s still-beating heart—and reveal the very soul of the man.
From the imaginative mind of debut author Charlie N. Holmberg, The Paper Magician is an extraordinary adventure both dark and whimsical that will delight readers of all ages.
Short-Listed for the 2015 ALA Fantasy Reading List.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Charlie N. Holmberg’s The Paper Magician and the series are a delightful and magical adventure that would be a great choice for families and young adult readers alike. The story follows Ceony Twill, a young woman who becomes an apprentice to a magician specializing in paper magic. As Ceony navigates her new magical world, she faces challenges that test her courage and beliefs, while forming meaningful relationships with those around her. The whimsical and imaginative concept of paper magic, combined with compelling characters and intriguing plot twists, will captivate readers of various ages, making it an excellent pick for family reading or for young adults exploring new fantasy genres. The content of The Paper Magician is well-suited for younger teen readers. While there is a romance element between Ceony and her mentor, it is quite restrained and focuses on the emotional connection rather than explicit physical interaction. The book does not contain any graphic sexual content, making it appropriate for younger readers. There are moments of danger and tension, but the overall tone remains accessible and appropriate for family reading. With its focus on magic, personal growth, and the power of determination, this series provides an engaging, clean read that doesn’t overwhelm with mature themes but still offers depth and excitement.
(contains mild romance, some sexual innuendo, moderate violence, and swearing)
AUTHORS SARAH HAWLEY
A WITCH'S GUIDE TO FAKE DATING A DEMON
Mariel Spark knows not to trust a demon, especially one that wants her soul, but what’s a witch to do when he won’t leave her side—and she kind of doesn’t want him to?
Mariel Spark is prophesied to be the most powerful witch seen in centuries of the famed Spark family, but to the displeasure of her mother, she prefers baking to brewing potions and gardening to casting hexes. When a spell to summon flour goes very wrong, Mariel finds herself staring down a demon—one she inadvertently summoned for a soul bargain.
Ozroth the Ruthless is a legend among demons. Powerful and merciless, he drives hard bargains to collect mortal souls. But his reputation has suffered ever since a bargain went awry—if he can strike a bargain with Mariel, he will earn back his deadly reputation. Ozroth can't leave Mariel's side until they complete a bargain, which she refuses to do (turns out some humans are attached to their souls).
But the witch is funny. And curvy. And disgustingly yet endearingly cheerful. Becoming awkward roommates quickly escalates when Mariel, terrified to confess the inadvertent summoning to her mother, blurts out that she's dating Ozroth. As Ozroth and Mariel struggle with their opposing goals and maintaining a fake relationship, real attraction blooms between them. But Ozroth has a limited amount of time to strike the deal, and if Mariel gives up her soul, she'll lose all her emotions—including love—which will only spell disaster for them both.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Sarah Hawley’s A Witch’s Guide to Fake Dating a Demon and the series are a charming blend of humor, romance, and fantasy, making it a delightful choice for young adult and family readers. The story follows a young witch, a demon, and a fake dating arrangement that leads to unexpected connections and adventures. The book’s lighthearted and whimsical tone, combined with its engaging plot, will appeal to fans of fantasy, romance, and comedy. With themes of self-discovery, loyalty, and the magic of found family, it offers a perfect balance of fun and heart, making it suitable for readers looking for an entertaining and magical experience. In terms of content, A Witch’s Guide to Fake Dating a Demon is generally appropriate for teen readers. While there are romantic elements, the book does not contain explicit sexual content. The romance between the protagonist and the demon is playful and engaging, with a focus on the emotional and humorous aspects of their dynamic. There may be some mild innuendo, but it is not graphic or explicit, making it a safe choice for teens and readers seeking a light, magical romance. The book is a good pick for those who enjoy fun, clean romantic fantasy with just the right amount of cheekiness.
(includes violence, mild profanity, and romantic tension but avoids explicit sexual content and graphic descriptions)
AUTHOR MCKENZIE HUNTER
DOUBLE-SIDED MAGIC
I am Levy Michaels. Once my kind were the hunters—now we are the hunted.
Humans are aware of the existence of supernaturals but I have to stay hidden because of the type of magic I possess. I’m a Legacy. It sounds like the title should come with reverence, a trust fund, or at the very least a cool backstory—instead it comes with a death sentence.
I have to hide in plain sight and pretend to be just human. I’m pretty good at it.
I live a simple and somewhat normal life, and I work in antique acquisitions. Everything’s going fine until a dangerous and enchanted dagger that was once in my possession is stolen. I didn’t think things could get any worse until I woke up next to a dead shifter, fae, and mage, without any memory of the past twenty-four hours.
Considered guilty of murder by most of the magical community and humans, I must work with Gareth, the sexy and dangerous leader of the Supernatural Guild. If he’s as good as rumored, it’s only a matter of time until he discovers the truth about me—then being found guilty of murder is the least of my worries.
Series Complete. This series is perfect for readers looking for edge-of-your-seat action, mystery with unexpected twists, a witty, kick-butt heroine, and a flirty slow-burn romance.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
McKenzie Hunter’s Double-Sided Magic and the series are an excellent choice for fans of urban fantasy and those who enjoy fast-paced, action-packed stories with a touch of romance. The book follows a strong, independent protagonist navigating a world filled with magic, danger, and powerful creatures. The plot combines supernatural elements with thrilling conflicts, making it a captivating read for young adult readers and older audiences alike. The world-building is rich, with well-developed magical systems and a gripping storyline that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The series is perfect for readers who enjoy a blend of adventure, mystery, and fantasy, as well as strong, resourceful characters. In terms of content, Double-Sided Magic is generally suitable for upper teen readers. While there is a romantic element, the book does not focus on explicit sexual content. The romance is present but kept relatively tame, with an emphasis on chemistry and emotional connection rather than physical intimacy. There may be some mild language or intense moments of tension, but the book remains appropriate for readers looking for a magical adventure without heavy adult themes. This makes it a solid choice for teens or those who appreciate a fantasy series with a light touch of romance and a lot of exciting magic.