
City of Villains
by Estelle Laure1 of 2
City of Villains is a gritty, modern reimagining of classic fairy tale lore that will captivate readers who enjoy urban fantasy and noir-style mysteries. Mary Elizabeth Heart is not your average high school student; by night, she interns for the Monarch City police department, desperate to escape her past and prove her worth. When the daughter of a powerful businessman vanishes, Mary Elizabeth is thrust into a case that is far more dangerous than a simple missing person's report. This book is perfect for children who love dark mysteries and readers interested in seeing their favorite fairy tale archetypes in a whole new light.
As the investigation deepens, Mary Elizabeth discovers a world of hidden magic, monsters, and a conspiracy that threatens the very fabric of her city. With a boyfriend who holds his own secrets and a mysterious girl with horns appearing in the shadows, she must navigate a landscape where the line between hero and villain is blurred. It is ideal for readers interested in complex world-building and high-stakes drama. This is a great choice for fans of Disney's Villains series or anyone who enjoys a fast-paced, atmospheric thriller.
Highlights:
- A unique urban fantasy setting that reimagines classic fairy tale characters in a modern city.
- A compelling mystery that keeps readers guessing until the very end.
- Strong themes of identity, power, and the struggle to find one's place in the world.
- Perfect for fans of gritty YA retellings and magical realism.

City of Magic and Monsters
by Estelle Laure3 of 2
City of Magic and Monsters is the thrilling conclusion to Estelle Laure’s City of Villains trilogy, offering a dark and gritty reimagining of classic Disney lore. In this final chapter, teen detective Mary Elizabeth Heart has finally embraced her villainous side, joining the very figures she once investigated. As Monarch City falls into chaos, different factions battle for control over magic, forcing Mary to navigate a web of secrets and shifting loyalties. This book is perfect for children and teens who love dark fairy tale retellings and atmospheric mysteries like Once Upon a Time or Gotham.
Readers will be captivated by the deep exploration of villain origin stories and the moral complexity of the characters. As the world begins to unravel, Mary must face her own demons and accept her true destiny. This series is an ideal choice for readers interested in anti-heroes, magical realism, and high-stakes urban fantasy. It provides a satisfying end to a journey that challenges the traditional boundaries between heroes and villains, making it a great choice for fans of Serena Valentino’s Villains series.
Highlights:
- The epic conclusion to the popular City of Villains trilogy.
- A unique, dark twist on classic Disney Villain origin stories.
- Complex character development focusing on moral ambiguity and identity.
- Perfect for fans of urban fantasy, noir mysteries, and fairy tale retellings.
