Fresh Reads, Honest reviews, Educator-approved
What if the only way to save your sister was to win a deadly competition where every cup of tea held magical power? In A Magic Steeped in Poison, Judy I. Lin blends fantasy, Chinese mythology, and court intrigue into a captivating adventure filled with dangerous rivals, unforgettable characters, and high-stakes twists.
Melding a Cinderella-style family dynamic with an expansive, Asian-inspired mythological landscape. Sailor Moon meets Cinder in Guardians of Dawn: Zhara, the start of a new, richly imagined fantasy series from S. Jae-Jones, the New York Times bestselling author of Wintersong.
Ever wonder what happens after the Chosen One fulfills the prophecy? F.T. Lukens tackles the aftermath in this delightfully self-aware, queer fantasy romantic comedy. While seasoned fantasy fans might find the plot predictable and the prose simple, its refreshing diversity, joyful LGBTQ+ representation, and cozy, low-stakes humor make it an uplifting choice.
Maggie Stiefvater’s The Dreamer Trilogy is a stunning, 5-star urban fantasy masterclass that secondary educators and librarians must stock on their shelves. Blending unmatched world-building with profound character growth, this spellbinding series follows Ronan Lynch through a landscape of miracles and catastrophes. It delivers exceptional LGBTQ+ representation and intricate plotting that will captivate fantasy lovers from the first page of Call Down the Hawk to Greywarren’s breathtaking end.
Dive into a deadly game of magic, secrets, and survival! In her five-star review of Alex Aster’s #1 bestseller Lightlark, Patricia Ranieri shares how this enchanting YA fantasy captured her imagination. With a strong female lead, gripping plot twists, and a sweeping romance, it’s a must-read for fans of Iron Flame. Read on to discover why this upcoming movie adaptation belongs on your bookshelf!