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Books in the series Modern Faerie Tales

3 books in this series

Tithe by Holly Black

Tithe

by Holly Black1 of 3

Step into a world where the faerie realm is far from a bedtime story. Tithe introduces readers to Kaye, a fierce sixteen-year-old who has spent her life drifting from city to city with her mother’s rock band. When a violent attack sends them back to her childhood home, Kaye finds herself drawn into an ancient and deadly conflict between rival faerie courts. After saving an injured faerie knight, she discovers that her ability to see the fey is more than just a quirk—it is the key to a dangerous game of power and betrayal.

This gritty urban fantasy is perfect for readers who love dark folklore and complex characters. Holly Black crafts a world that is both beautiful and terrifying, blending modern reality with sinister magic. It is an ideal choice for fans of The Cruel Prince or those looking for a more mature, atmospheric take on traditional myths. With its fast-paced plot and high stakes, this book explores themes of identity and the cost of survival in a world where no one can be trusted.

Highlights:

  • A dark and atmospheric reimagining of traditional faerie folklore.
  • A strong, independent female protagonist navigating a dangerous magical world.
  • Perfect for fans of urban fantasy and gritty young adult novels.
  • Explores complex themes of identity, loyalty, and moral ambiguity.
  • The gripping first installment in the acclaimed Modern Faerie Tales series.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultFantasy+3 more
Valiant by Holly Black

Valiant

by Holly Black2 of 3

Valiant is a gritty and atmospheric urban fantasy that takes readers deep into the hidden, magical underbelly of New York City. When seventeen-year-old Valerie Russell runs away from home after a devastating betrayal, she finds herself living among a group of squatters in the city's labyrinthine subway tunnels. However, these are no ordinary runaways; they are entangled with the dangerous and seductive world of the fey. As Val becomes more involved with a mysterious creature and a magical substance known as 'Never,' she must decide where her loyalties truly lie.

This novel is perfect for teenagers who enjoy dark, edgy stories that blend reality with folklore. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in urban legends, complex character growth, and the consequences of one's choices. Holly Black's masterful world-building makes this a great choice for fans of contemporary fantasy who want a story that doesn't shy away from difficult themes like addiction and identity.

Highlights:

  • A dark and immersive reimagining of faerie lore in a modern city setting.
  • A compelling protagonist navigating betrayal and self-discovery.
  • Explores complex social themes through a lens of urban fantasy.
  • Perfect for fans of the Modern Faerie Tales series and gritty YA fiction.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultFantasy+2 more
Ironside by Holly Black

Ironside

by Holly Black3 of 3

Step back into the mesmerizing and dangerous world of the Unseelie and Seelie Courts in Ironside, the thrilling conclusion to Holly Black’s acclaimed Modern Faerie Tales trilogy. This dark urban fantasy follows Kaye, a pixie who finds herself caught between her love for the newly crowned Unseelie King, Roiben, and a seemingly impossible quest. When Kaye is challenged to find a faerie who can tell a lie—a feat thought to be impossible—she must navigate a treacherous landscape of political intrigue, ancient magic, and heartbreaking choices. This book is perfect for readers who love atmospheric world-building and complex characters who defy traditional hero tropes.

As Kaye grapples with her identity as a changeling and her place in both the human and faerie worlds, she becomes a pawn in a high-stakes game played by the ruthless Queen Silarial. Ideal for fans of The Cruel Prince and readers interested in gritty, modern retellings of folklore, Ironside explores the thin line between love and power. It is a great choice for older teens who enjoy stories where the stakes are life-and-death and the magic is as sharp as a blade.

Highlights:

  • A deep dive into the dark and seductive lore of Seelie and Unseelie faerie courts.
  • A compelling protagonist navigating themes of identity, belonging, and sacrifice.
  • Intense romantic tension and high-stakes political maneuvering.
  • A masterful blend of gritty urban settings and enchanted, dangerous realms.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultFantasy+3 more