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Jessamy's life is a balance between acting like an upper-class Patron and dreaming of the freedom of the Commoners. But away from her family she can be whoever she wants when she sneaks out to train for The Fives.
The winding streets and narrow alleys of Karolene hide many secrets, and Hitomi is one of them.
Are some men born evil, no chance of redemption from the moment they draw breath? Perhaps, perhaps not. Grim doesn't seem to think so, and yet, he knows better than to believe that knowledge alone would curb a cruel man's intent... Even if that man is himself.
Jessamy's life is a balance between acting like an upper-class Patron and dreaming of the freedom of the Commoners. But away from her family she can be whoever she wants when she sneaks out to train for The Fives.
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WITCHES
Authors I - N
At a Glance
(dark magic, creepy creatures, and mild horror elements)
AUTHORS T. KINGFISHER
A SORCERESS COMES TO CALL
From New York Times bestselling and Hugo Award-winning author T. Kingfisher comes A Sorceress Comes to Call―a dark reimagining of the Brothers Grimm's "The Goose Girl," rife with secrets, murder, and forbidden magic.
*The hardcover edition features a foil stamp on the casing and custom endpapers illustrated by the author.*
Cordelia knows her mother is . . . unusual. Their house doesn’t have any doors between rooms―there are no secrets in this house―and her mother doesn't allow Cordelia to have a single friend. Unless you count Falada, her mother's beautiful white horse. The only time Cordelia feels truly free is on her daily rides with him.
But more than simple eccentricity sets her mother apart. Other mothers don’t force their daughters to be silent and motionless for hours, sometimes days, on end. Other mothers aren’t evil sorcerers.
When her mother unexpectedly moves them into the manor home of a wealthy older Squire and his kind but keen-eyed sister, Hester, Cordelia knows this welcoming pair are to be her mother's next victims. But Cordelia feels at home for the very first time among these people, and as her mother's plans darken, she must decide how to face the woman who raised her to save the people who have become like family.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
T. Kingfisher’s A Sorceress Comes to Call and the series are a delightful choice for readers who enjoy whimsical, character-driven fantasy with a lighthearted yet clever narrative. The book follows a strong, relatable protagonist navigating magical challenges and oddball adventures, filled with witty dialogue and charming world-building. The tone is both humorous and heartfelt, making it an enjoyable read for fans of fantasy who appreciate a mix of magic, adventure, and quirky characters. With its engaging plot and approachable style, the series is well-suited for readers looking for a fun, easy-to-read fantasy that offers both light escapism and meaningful moments. In terms of content, A Sorceress Comes to Call is suitable for teen readers. There is no explicit sexual content, with the romance being light and tasteful, if present at all. The book focuses more on the protagonist’s personal growth, magical discoveries, and humorous interactions with other characters, rather than on romantic or physical relationships. The language is also accessible and not overly mature, making it a solid choice for young adults and families looking for a fantasy series with minimal mature themes. The overall tone is one of fun and adventure, making it an ideal option for readers who want to explore a magical world without the intensity or complexity of darker or more mature fantasy books.
(mild violence, romantic tension, kissing)
AUTHOR WENDY KNIGHT
CAULDRON BUBBLE
“You’ve just always been the powerful one. I’m the smart aleck.”
“We’re the same. I’m night, you’re day. You have to have both to have life.”
“You can hide in the shadows.”
“And you can shine like the sun. This prophesy is about both of us.”
Destiny doesn't think she's anything special. The daughter of an outcast witch. Her twin, Fate, is her best friend, so that's awesome. They're experts in love potions and selling them to crazy high school kids.
So they can buy more shoes.
But that all changes when their school is attacked by warlocks—warlocks who want her power for their own. The attack launches her onto the path the stars have chosen for Destiny, Fate, and their long-lost father.
Oh, and Quin.
Quin, who's the son of a witch, only tolerating Destiny's presence because she can save his mother. Except along the way, that all changes, and he realizes Destiny is everything he never knew he wanted. The only problem is she thinks if love can be made from a potion, it can't be a real thing.
If they survive this, he's going to prove her wrong.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Wendy Knight’s Cauldron Bubble and the series are a fantastic choice for readers who enjoy magical adventures filled with humor, charm, and engaging characters. The story follows a young protagonist who navigates the challenges of growing up while discovering her magical powers. The narrative is lighthearted, with a perfect balance of humor, mystery, and heartwarming moments. The plot is fast-paced, ensuring that readers stay engaged throughout, while the themes of friendship, self-discovery, and magical quests make it a great choice for both teen and family audiences. The blend of fantasy with relatable character growth creates a compelling story for fans of adventure and magic. In terms of content, Cauldron Bubble is ideal for young adults and families as it contains minimal mature themes. There is no explicit sexual content in the book, and while there are hints of romance, it remains appropriate for younger readers. The focus is more on the protagonist’s magical journey and her relationships with friends and family, making it an enjoyable and accessible read for a wide audience. The book avoids explicit language or graphic content, ensuring it is suitable for early teen readers. Its lighthearted nature and engaging storytelling make it a great option for families looking for a fun, magical read that remains family-friendly.
(No sex and no foul language, no explicit violence)
AUTHOR ELISE KOVA
A TRIAL OF SORCERERS (BOOK 1)
Ice is in her blood.
Eighteen-year-old Waterrunner Eira Landan lives her life in the shadows — the shadow of her older brother, of her magic’s whispers, and of the person she accidentally killed. She’s the most unwanted apprentice in the Tower of Sorcerers until the day she decides to step out and compete for a spot in the Tournament of Five Kingdoms.
Pitted against the best sorcerers in the Empire, Eira fights to be one of four champions. Excelling in the trials has its rewards. She’s invited to the royal court with the “Prince of the Tower,” discovers her rare talent for forbidden magic, and at midnight, Eira secretly meets with a handsome elfin ambassador.
But, Eira soon learns, no reward is without risk. As she comes into the spotlight, so too do the skeletons of a past she hadn’t even realized was haunting her.
Eira went into the trials ready for a fight. Ready to win. She wasn’t ready for what it would cost her. No one expected the candidates might not make it out with their lives.
A Trial of Sorcerers is the first book in a brand new, young adult, epic fantasy series intended for readers who love stories involving: sorcerer competitions, slow-burn romance, adventures to distant lands, and elemental magic.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Elise Kova’s A Trial of Sorcerers and the series are an excellent choice for readers who enjoy immersive fantasy worlds filled with magic, adventure, and strong character development. Set in a richly crafted world, the story follows a young sorcerer as she navigates the challenges of her magical abilities and the dangerous trials she must face. The plot is driven by themes of personal growth, courage, and the exploration of complex relationships, making it an engaging read for teens and adults alike. Kova’s world-building and character dynamics are compelling, drawing readers into a narrative that explores both the wonders and perils of a magical universe. In terms of content, A Trial of Sorcerers is well-suited for young adult readers, with themes and characters that are relatable and engaging for that age group. The book includes some romantic elements, but it keeps the sexual content very minimal, making it appropriate for teen readers. The romance in the series is more about emotional connection and the challenges that come with relationships, rather than explicit content. There is no graphic violence or sexual scenes, making it a safe choice for families looking for a fantasy book that balances adventure and romance without crossing into inappropriate territory. This makes it a great option for young adult readers, especially those who enjoy magical trials, coming-of-age stories, and character-driven narratives.
(no explicit sex or language)
AUTHOR CHANDELLE LAVAUN
THE LOST WITCH (BOOK 1)
I thought magic was make believe...but I was way wrong.
I was nobody. No matter how hard I tried, I never fit in with anyone at my high school. Now I know why.
Turns out I'm a witch. A scary powerful one, too. Except The Coven that claimed me won't teach me how to use my magic.
Suddenly, I'm selected by the Goddess to hunt down a mythical locket needed to save the world from destruction. The only person who actually tries to help me is the alarmingly attractive Tennessee. He has immeasurable power and breathtaking mismatched eyes. I'm drawn to him on a level I can't explain...and he's forbidden from getting too close to me.
When the quest takes an unexpected dangerous turn, I have to improvise. This supernatural world is unraveling at my fingertips and I need to master my magic fast. If I don't, I could get everyone I care about killed...
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Chandelle LaVaun’s The Lost Witch and its series offer a captivating blend of magic, adventure, and self-discovery, making it an excellent choice for both young adult and adult readers. The protagonist is a young witch who embarks on a journey of personal growth, uncovering not just magical secrets but also her own strength and resilience. The world-building is immersive, and the plot offers an engaging mix of mystery and supernatural elements that will keep readers hooked. For families seeking a book that combines fantasy with themes of empowerment and self-realization, The Lost Witch provides a refreshing escape into a world of magic, danger, and personal discovery. In terms of content, The Lost Witch is appropriate for teen readers. The book focuses on character relationships and emotional depth rather than explicit content. While there are romantic elements woven throughout the story, these are handled with subtlety, and there is little to no sexual content. The story leans more on the bonds of friendship, family, and the emotional growth of the main character. The themes are suitable for younger readers, with no graphic violence or inappropriate language, making it a safe and enjoyable choice for those looking for a fantasy novel with a good balance of magic, romance, and coming-of-age moments.
(No sex but it does get bloody. This story is YA but is highly enjoyable for adults too!)
AUTHOR MICHELLE MADOW
THE DISCOVERY OF MAGIC (BOOK 1)
Welcome to Elementals Academy, where magic is the only hope of survival, forbidden romance beckons, and an ancient secret threatens to end it all.
Summer Donovan thinks paying her way through her expensive private college is her biggest problem.
She’s about to find out how wrong she is.
Because when the president of the most exclusive sorority on campus goes off the rails and bullies her, Summer defends herself with something she never knew she had.
Magic.
It turns out she’s a witch. But that’s only the start of the surprises in store for her.
Soon after her magical breakthrough, Summer learns she’s destined to attend Elementals Academy—an exclusive school dedicated to witches descended from the Greek gods.
At Elementals Academy, Summer finally finds the thing she’s wanted her whole life: a place where she fits in. Although that doesn’t last long, thanks to her magic not working the way it’s supposed to, and no one knowing why.
But her biggest challenge isn’t schoolwork. Or magic. It’s Zane Caldwell—the iciest, most attractive, and most mysterious student at the school. Despite the way Zane’s warm to her one minute and cold the next, Summer feels an irresistible draw to him.
While struggling to understand her feelings for Zane, Summer soon discovers she has another problem—one far more dangerous. There are secrets lurking within the hallowed halls of Elementals Academy, and she may hold the key to unraveling them. If she can survive long enough… and figure out who to trust.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Michelle Madow’s The Discovery of Magic and its series is a fantastic choice for readers who enjoy magical adventures with strong characters and an engaging plot. The story follows a young protagonist who discovers hidden magical abilities and must navigate the challenges that come with this newfound power. The world-building is rich, with a well-constructed magical system and an intriguing conflict that keeps the story moving at a compelling pace. For families looking for a book that fosters themes of bravery, self-discovery, and the value of friendship, this series offers an enjoyable and immersive experience for both teens and adults. In terms of content, The Discovery of Magic is suitable for young readers. The story contains mild romantic elements, but there is little to no sexual content. Any romantic moments are sweet and focused on emotional connections rather than physical intimacy. The book also explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and personal growth, all within a magical context that is thrilling but not overly intense. The series offers excitement and magical escapades while remaining appropriate for younger readers, making it a great option for those seeking a fantasy novel that balances adventure with heartwarming moments.
(contains violence, dark magic, sensual kissing, and mature themes)
Editor's
Favorite
AUTHOR KERRI MANISCALCO
KINGDOM OF THE WICKED (BOOK 1)
A James Patterson Presents Novel From the #1 New York Times and USA
Today bestselling author of the Stalking Jack the Ripper series comes a new blockbuster series...
Two sisters.One brutal murder. A quest for vengeance that will unleash Hell itself... And an intoxicating romance. Emilia and her twin sister Vittoria are streghe -- witches who live secretly among humans, avoiding notice and persecution. One night, Vittoria misses dinner service at the family's renowned Sicilian restaurant. Emilia soon finds the body of her beloved twin...desecrated beyond belief.
Devastated, Emilia sets out to find her sister's killer and to seek vengeance at any cost-even if it means using dark magic that's been long forbidden. Then Emilia meets Wrath, one of the Wicked-princes of Hell she has been warned against in tales since she was a child. Wrath claims to be on Emilia's side, tasked by his master with solving the series of women's murders on the island. But when it comes to the Wicked, nothing is as it seems...
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Kerri Maniscalco's Kingdom of the Wicked and its series can be a great choice for readers looking for an immersive, suspenseful fantasy with rich world-building and intriguing characters. Set in a world of witches, demons, and magic, the story follows Emilia, a young witch who embarks on a quest to find her twin sister’s killer. The plot is filled with mystery, danger, and an atmospheric setting that will captivate those who enjoy fantasy with elements of suspense and romance. The series also explores themes of family, loyalty, and the complexities of good versus evil, making it a solid pick for older teens and adults interested in dark fantasy. In terms of content, Kingdom of the Wicked contains romantic elements that are integral to the plot but focuses more on the emotional and magical aspects of the relationship rather than explicit physicality. There are some moments of heated chemistry between characters, which includes mild sensuality, but the sexual content is minimal and not graphic. The book does include some mature themes, such as betrayal and revenge, and may contain some violence and darker moments that are best suited for older teens. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a magical world with strong female leads and a mix of romance and mystery, while still being appropriate for families with teens who enjoy a bit of tension and intrigue.
(No sex but it does get bloody. This story is YA but is highly enjoyable for adults too!)
Editor's
Favorite
AUTHOR ANNETTE MARIE
TAMING DEMONS FOR BEGINNERS (BOOK 1)
Rule one: Don't look at the demon.
When I arrived at my uncle's house, I expected my relatives to be like me—outcast sorcerers who don't practice magic. I was right about the sorcery, but wrong about everything else.
Rule two: Don't listen to the demon.
My uncle chose a far deadlier power. He calls creatures of darkness into our world, binds them into service contracts, and sells them to the highest bidder. And I'm supposed to act like I don't know how illegal and dangerous it is.
Rule three: Don't talk to the demon.
All I had to do was keep my nose out of it. Pretend I didn't find the summoning circle in the basement. Pretend I didn't notice the shadowy being trapped inside it. Pretend I didn't break the rules.
But I did, and now it's too late.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Annette Marie’s Taming Demons for Beginners and the series it belongs to are an excellent choice for readers who enjoy a fun, action-packed fantasy with a relatable protagonist and a compelling world of demons, magic, and humor. The story follows a young woman, who, after being thrust into a world of dangerous supernatural creatures, must learn to tame and control demons. This series blends adventure, magic, and quirky characters while maintaining a lighthearted tone that’s perfect for readers of all ages, especially those who enjoy strong heroines and a bit of humor mixed in with their fantasy. It’s ideal for readers who want an engaging, fast-paced story with plenty of twists and turns. As far as content, Taming Demons for Beginners is quite mild in terms of mature themes. While there are romantic moments between characters, the focus is on building tension and emotional connections rather than on explicit content. The romance is sweet and develops gradually, with no graphic sexual content or explicit scenes. There’s action, magic, and some mild violence, but it's all within the context of a fantasy world, making it suitable for older teens and young adults. The series doesn’t dwell on anything too dark or inappropriate, making it an enjoyable and safe choice for readers who are looking for a magical adventure that doesn’t cross into overly mature territory.
(mild swearing, fantasy violence, and a romantic subplot with implied intimacy)
AUTHOR ADRIANA MATHER
HOW TO HANG A WITCH
Salem, Massachusetts is the site of the infamous witch trials and the new home of Samantha Mather. Recently transplanted from New York City, Sam and her stepmother are not exactly welcomed with open arms. Sam is the descendant of Cotton Mather, one of the men responsible for those trials and almost immediately, she becomes the enemy of a group of girls who call themselves The Descendants. And guess who their ancestors were?
If dealing with that weren't enough, Sam also comes face to face with a real live (well technically dead) ghost. A handsome, angry ghost who wants Sam to stop touching his stuff. But soon Sam discovers she is at the center of a centuries old curse affecting anyone with ties to the trials. Sam must come to terms with the ghost and find a way to work with the Descendants to stop a deadly cycle that has been going on since the first accused witch was hanged. If any town should have learned its lesson, it's Salem. But history may be about to repeat itself.
“It's like Mean Girls meets history class in the best possible way.” --Seventeen Magazine
"Mather shines a light on the lessons the Salem Witch Trials can teach us about modern-day bullying — and what we can do about it."--Bustle.com
"Strikes a careful balance of creepy, fun, and thoughtful." --NPR
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Adriana Mather’s How to Hang a Witch and the series it belongs to are a fantastic choice for readers who enjoy a blend of supernatural mystery, historical intrigue, and contemporary elements. The book follows Sam Mather, a descendant of the infamous Cotton Mather, who is forced to navigate the haunted legacy of the Salem witch trials when she moves to Salem. The story blends modern-day high school drama with eerie witchcraft elements, making it engaging for both younger readers and those who appreciate a dash of history mixed with fantasy. The novel is rich in atmosphere, exploring themes of self-discovery, identity, and redemption, all while keeping the reader entertained with suspense and twists. Regarding content, How to Hang a Witch is appropriate for a teen audience, with mild romantic elements, some supernatural tension, and a bit of danger. There is a romance in the story, but it is subtle and not overtly sexual—nothing explicit or inappropriate. The focus is more on the characters' emotional growth and their connections with one another rather than on physical relationships. The story also contains some mild violence, given the supernatural conflicts and the historical context of the Salem witch trials, but it's handled in a way that's not too graphic or overwhelming. Overall, this book and series are suitable for teens and families looking for an intriguing, magical story without crossing into overly mature or explicit content.
(moderate profanity, suggestive scenes, minor unwanted advances, and supernatural violence)
AUTHOR MEGAN MONTERO
WICKED OMEN (BOOK 1)
There’s no such thing as magical powers. . .
All my life the only kind of magic I’d ever seen was the sparkling jewels on fifth avenue. On the night of my sixteenth birthday all hell breaks loose, and by hell I mean me! I never felt power like this, so dark, so tempting, so out of my control! No one is safe around me. And now I’m being thrown into Warwick Academy.
An academy for the darker side of magic. . .the warlock side.
My captor, my savior, and the bane of my existence, Beckett Dust insists on keeping me here even though we can’t stand each other. I don’t care how drop dead gorgeous he is or that he rules the school like he owns it, I need to stay as far away from him as I can. His deepest desire is to turn me into a weapon in the great war to come. My deepest desire is . . .him. There’s a thin line between love and hate and right now I’m walking it.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Megan Montero’s Wicked Omen and the series it belongs to are an excellent choice for readers who enjoy gripping supernatural fiction with strong character development and a focus on themes like destiny, family, and power. The story centers on a young protagonist who is thrust into a world of dark magic, prophecies, and conflict, making it an exciting read for those who love paranormal drama. The book is filled with mystery, adventure, and a touch of suspense, keeping readers on their toes as they follow the characters’ journey through dangerous and thrilling situations. The plot's blend of magic and real-world challenges makes it accessible to readers who enjoy a mixture of fantasy and relatable struggles. In terms of content, Wicked Omen is suitable for teens and older readers, with some dark themes and action-driven conflict. There are some moments of romance, but they are mild and do not include explicit or sexual content. The focus is primarily on the emotional development of the characters and their relationships, rather than physical romance. The book also contains some violence and supernatural battles, but it’s not overly graphic or explicit, making it appropriate for those looking for an intense, thrilling read without overwhelming mature content. Overall, this book is a great option for families looking for a gripping, magical series that remains suitable for teen readers.
(contains mild fantasy violence, light romance, and minimal language)
AUTHOR DAVID NETH
HARPY
Saving him is their job, but it won’t get his victim justice.
Samantha and Kathy are witches who protect the nonmagical from evil. So when they spot a coven of harpies targeting Mark, a nonmagical man, they immediately rush to save him.
With the threat of the harpies still looming over Mark, the sisters learn more about him and the target on his back. Namely, that the harpies are hunting him to drag him to hell to pay for his crimes against a young woman. However, that presents a dilemma for Samantha and Kathy: do they follow their duties as witches and save the man who harmed a young woman or do they step aside and let the harpies drag him to hell to pay for those crimes?
The clock is ticking and the longer it takes Samantha and Kathy to decide what to do, the more innocent people that will be hurt by the harpies while they wait to sink their claws into Mark.
Harpy is the first book in the Coven series, which serves as a prequel series to the Under the Moon series.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Harpy by David Neth is a compelling urban fantasy that follows sister witches Samantha and Kathy as they protect the non-magical from supernatural threats. The narrative delves into moral complexities when the sisters must decide whether to save a man targeted by harpies for his past crimes against a young woman. This storyline offers mid-teen readers and up an engaging exploration of justice, redemption, and the nuances of right and wrong. The book's content is appropriate for teens, with minimal sexual content, moderate fantasy violence, and limited strong language. For families seeking a series that balances action with thoughtful themes, Harpy serves as a suitable choice. Its focus on ethical dilemmas and character development provides depth without resorting to explicit content. However, parents should be aware that the book addresses serious topics, such as past crimes and moral ambiguity, which may prompt discussions about accountability and justice. Overall, Harpy offers a rich narrative that can be both entertaining and thought-provoking for teen readers.