Books about duty

Guardians of Dawn: Ami is a breathtaking East Asian-inspired fantasy that is perfect for readers who love epic quests and rich world-building. Li Ami is an exile, living on the fringes of society while caring for her father, whose strange ravings might actually be a dire prophecy. When a mysterious blight threatens their harvest and her father is arrested, Ami must step into her role as the Guardian of Wood to save her family and her world. This high-stakes adventure is an ideal choice for fans of Shadow and Bone or Cinder.

As the Morning Realms face a rising tide of undead and the threat of the Mother of Ten Thousand Demons, Ami joins forces with Jin Zhara, the Guardian of Fire. Together, they must journey to the Root of the World to seal a demon portal. This story is a great choice for teens who enjoy stories of self-discovery, magical destiny, and slow-burn romance. With its blend of folklore and fast-paced action, it is a must-read for anyone interested in diverse fantasy narratives.

Highlights:

• An immersive East Asian-inspired fantasy world with deep lore.
• A compelling journey of an exiled girl discovering her true power.
• High-stakes action featuring elemental magic and undead revenants.
• Themes of family loyalty, duty, and finding one's place in the world.

Blood Promise is the gripping fourth installment in Richelle Mead’s internationally bestselling Vampire Academy series. Following the devastating events of the previous book, Rose Hathaway must leave the safety of St. Vladimir’s Academy and her best friend Lissa behind. She embarks on a dangerous solo journey across Russia to fulfill a heartbreaking promise: to find and kill the man she loves, Dimitri Belikov, who has been transformed into a soulless Strigoi. This high-stakes urban fantasy is perfect for readers who crave intense action, deep emotional stakes, and complex supernatural lore.

Ideal for fans of dark paranormal romance and fast-paced adventures, this novel explores the heavy burden of duty and the lengths one will go for love. Parents should note that this entry in the series deals with more mature themes of grief and sacrifice, making it a great choice for older teens who enjoy character-driven stories with a strong, resilient female lead. Whether your teen is already a fan of the series or looking for a compelling supernatural epic, Rose’s journey is sure to keep them turning pages late into the night.

Highlights:

• A thrilling international setting as Rose travels through the heart of Russia.
• Deep exploration of loyalty and the emotional consequences of difficult choices.
• Intense action sequences and high-stakes supernatural conflict.
• A powerful character arc for a fierce and determined female protagonist.

Chain of Gold is a sweeping historical fantasy set in Edwardian London, perfect for readers who love high-stakes adventure and intricate world-building. As the first installment in The Last Hours trilogy, it follows Cordelia Carstairs, a fierce Shadowhunter trained to battle demons. When her family faces ruin, Cordelia travels to London, only to find herself caught between the expectations of society and a terrifying new threat. Unlike any demons seen before, these monsters strike in broad daylight, forcing Cordelia and her friends to uncover a dark legacy to save their city.

This novel is an ideal choice for fans of the Shadowhunter Chronicles or anyone interested in a blend of supernatural action and complex romance. With its glittering ballrooms, secret salons, and a cast of memorable characters like James and Lucie Herondale, it offers a rich, immersive experience. Readers will be captivated by the themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the heavy price of being a hero. It is a great choice for older teens looking for a long, engaging series with deep emotional resonance and thrilling supernatural battles.

Highlights:

• A thrilling return to the world of Shadowhunters with a new generation of heroes.
• Richly detailed Edwardian London setting filled with magic and mystery.
• Compelling romantic subplots and deep explorations of friendship and family loyalty.
• High-stakes action featuring unique, daylight-walking demons that defy traditional rules.

Step into the dangerous and dazzling world of Edwardian London in Chain of Iron, the gripping second installment of Cassandra Clare’s The Last Hours series. Cordelia Carstairs has finally achieved her dream of marrying James Herondale, but their union is built on a foundation of secrets and lies. While Cordelia struggles with her unrequited love and a legendary blade that burns her touch, a serial killer begins targeting Shadowhunters, vanishing into the shadows of the city. This high-stakes sequel is perfect for readers who love intricate world-building, slow-burn romance, and supernatural mysteries.

As Cordelia, James, and Lucie race to stop the murderer, they must confront their own hidden truths—from forbidden magic to dangerous oaths. Ideal for fans of The Mortal Instruments and readers interested in historical fantasy with a dark, romantic edge, this book offers a rich tapestry of friendship and betrayal. It is a great choice for older teens who enjoy complex character dynamics and epic battles against demonic forces.

Highlights:

• A thrilling supernatural mystery set in atmospheric Edwardian London.
• Deeply emotional character arcs involving secrets, loyalty, and sacrifice.
• An expansion of the beloved Shadowhunter Chronicles universe.
• Perfect for fans of epic YA fantasy and historical romance.

Set in the atmospheric streets of Victorian London, Clockwork Prince continues the gripping saga of Tessa Gray and the Shadowhunters of the London Institute. As the mysterious Magister threatens to destroy everything they hold dear, Tessa must navigate a world of clockwork automatons, ancient magic, and dangerous secrets. This sequel is perfect for readers who love high-stakes fantasy mixed with historical intrigue and a touch of gothic mystery.

Beyond the supernatural battles, the heart of the story lies in the complex relationships between Tessa, the brooding Will Herondale, and the kind-hearted Jem Carstairs. Ideal for readers interested in character-driven narratives, this book explores deep emotional bonds and the search for belonging. It is a great choice for teenagers who enjoy immersive world-building and emotional storytelling that keeps them turning pages late into the night.

Highlights:

• A lush, detailed reimagining of Victorian London filled with magic and mystery.
• A compelling and emotionally resonant love triangle that explores friendship and devotion.
• High-octane action sequences featuring clockwork demons and Shadowhunter combat.
• Intricate plot twists that reveal the dark pasts and hidden secrets of the main characters.

Erak's Ransom is a thrilling installment in John Flanagan's beloved series, perfect for children who love high-stakes adventure and epic fantasy. When the Skandian Oberjarl Erak is captured in the harsh southern deserts, an unlikely group of heroes must embark on a dangerous rescue mission. Will, Halt, Horace, and Princess Cassandra (known to the boys as Evanlyn) must navigate treacherous sandstorms and outwit warring tribes to save their friend and maintain peace between nations.

This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in tactical battles, deep friendships, and coming-of-age stories. Flanagan expertly blends humor with heart-pounding action, making it a great choice for fans of the Percy Jackson or Wings of Fire series. Whether your child is a long-time fan of the Rangers or a newcomer to the world of Araluen, this desert-bound quest offers a refreshing change of scenery and intense challenges that test the characters' growth and loyalty.

Highlights:

• An epic desert adventure featuring sandstorms and warring tribes.
• Strong character development for fan-favorites Will and Horace.
• A perfect blend of tactical strategy and fast-paced action.
• Explores themes of loyalty, diplomacy, and bravery under pressure.

Frostbite is the pulse-pounding second installment in Richelle Mead's bestselling Vampire Academy series. The story follows Rose Hathaway, a dhampir guardian-in-training, as she navigates the dangerous world of the Moroi and the deadly Strigoi. When a brutal attack by Strigoi on a royal family sends the St. Vladimir’s Academy students to a luxury ski resort for protection, Rose finds herself caught between her intense training, her complicated feelings for her mentor Dimitri Belikov, and the growing threat of an all-out vampire war.

This book is perfect for readers who love high-stakes supernatural action mixed with complex emotional drama. It explores deep themes of loyalty and sacrifice while delivering a fast-paced narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Ideal for fans of urban fantasy and paranormal romance, Frostbite elevates the series with higher stakes and more intense character development, making it a great choice for teens looking for a strong, relatable heroine who isn't afraid to fight for what she believes in.

Highlights:

• Intense supernatural action and high-stakes combat sequences.
• A complex and compelling forbidden romance subplot.
• Deep exploration of the bonds of friendship and the weight of duty.
• A strong, witty, and fiercely independent female protagonist.

Goldenhand is the thrilling fifth installment in Garth Nix’s legendary Old Kingdom series, a must-read for fans of high-stakes epic fantasy. Set six months after the climactic events of Abhorsen, the story follows Lirael, the Abhorsen-in-Waiting, as she adjusts to her new life and a powerful hand made of gilded steel and Charter Magic. When a mysterious young woman from the North arrives with a message from Lirael’s long-dead mother, a new threat emerges: the terrifying Witch with No Face. Lirael must embark on a perilous journey to the Clayr’s Glacier to stop a darkness that threatens both the living world and the cold river of Death.

This book is perfect for children and teens who love intricate world-building, dark magic, and resilient heroines. Ideal for readers interested in series like Graceling or Throne of Glass, Garth Nix continues to masterfully blend action with deep emotional resonance. It is a great choice for those who enjoy stories where the fate of a kingdom rests on the shoulders of a brave few. Parents will appreciate the themes of duty, sacrifice, and the strength found in heritage.

Highlights:

• Features a strong, complex female protagonist with unique magical abilities.
• Expands the rich lore of the Old Kingdom and the fascinating Charter Magic system.
• A perfect blend of high-fantasy adventure and dark, atmospheric mystery.
• Ideal for fans of Rae Carson, Kristin Cashore, and Scott Westerfeld.

Lady Dragon is a breathtaking Young Adult romantasy that transports readers to the war-scarred lands of Andrath, where a fragile truce between humans and dragons hangs in the balance. When Princess Samansa and the dragon-shifter Kirek are brought together to maintain the peace, they discover a conspiracy that threatens to reignite an ancient war. This epic tale is perfect for teens who love high-stakes political intrigue, complex world-building, and the slow-burn intensity of a forbidden romance.

Ideal for readers interested in diverse fantasy stories, this novel explores themes of duty, identity, and the courage to challenge tradition. Fans of The Priory of the Orange Tree and Seraphina will find themselves captivated by the rich lore and the emotional depth of the protagonists. It is a great choice for older teens looking for a story that balances action-packed dragon battles with a tender, affirming sapphic love story.

Highlights:

• A compelling sapphic romance between a human princess and a dragon-shifter.
• Intricate political drama involving ancient treaties and secret plots.
• Epic dragon battles and imaginative world-building.
• Exploration of identity and the struggle between personal feelings and national duty.

In the heart-pounding conclusion to the Vampire Academy series, Rose Hathaway finds herself in the ultimate race against time. Accused of a high-profile murder she did not commit, Rose must escape custody and go on the run to find the one person who can prove her innocence. As the Moroi world teeters on the edge of political collapse, the stakes have never been higher for Rose, Lissa, and the guardians sworn to protect them. This final installment delivers a masterclass in urban fantasy, blending high-octane action with the deep emotional resonance fans have come to expect from Richelle Mead.

Perfect for readers who love supernatural dramas with high stakes and complex character growth, Last Sacrifice is an ideal choice for those who enjoy strong female leads and intricate world-building. Parents looking for engaging series for older teens will find this a great choice for readers interested in themes of justice, loyalty, and the weight of responsibility. It is a must-read for fans of the Mortal Instruments or Twilight series who are looking for a more action-oriented and politically charged vampire narrative.

Highlights:

• The epic and satisfying conclusion to the beloved Vampire Academy series.
• Intense romantic tension and emotional resolutions for fan-favorite characters.
• A fast-paced mystery filled with political intrigue and unexpected twists.
• Explores profound themes of loyalty, friendship, and the true meaning of sacrifice.

In the twelfth pulse-pounding installment of the world-renowned Alex Rider series, Nightshade, the world's greatest teen spy faces his most dangerous challenge yet. After the fall of the criminal organization Scorpia, Alex hopes for a return to a normal life. However, a new and even more ruthless threat emerges from the shadows: Nightshade. This high-stakes thriller takes readers from the heights of Gibraltar to the heart of London, as Alex must infiltrate a mysterious organization to stop a devastating attack.

Perfect for children who love fast-paced action and international intrigue, this book is an ideal choice for readers interested in espionage, gadgets, and heroic missions. Anthony Horowitz delivers an edge-of-your-seat adventure that explores themes of resilience and duty, making it a great choice for fans of James Bond and Jason Bourne. With no one left to save him, Alex must rely on his wits and training to survive a battle where the stakes have never been higher.

Highlights:

• The return of the iconic teen spy Alex Rider in a brand-new mission.
• A gripping plot involving a mysterious and deadly new criminal organization.
• High-octane action sequences set in international locations like Gibraltar.
• Explores deep themes of independence and the weight of responsibility.

In this high-stakes sequel to the viral sensation Powerless, Paedyn Gray is a fugitive on the run after killing the King and sparking a revolution. Her journey takes her across the treacherous Scorches and into the hostile city of Dor, where danger lurks around every corner. This gripping romantic fantasy is perfect for readers who love intense 'enemies-to-lovers' tropes and stories where the line between hero and villain is blurred.

Kai Azer, now the kingdom's Enforcer, is tasked with a mission he never wanted: bringing Paedyn to justice. As the hunter and the hunted clash in a city without Elites, their battle between duty to the crown and their undeniable desire for one another reaches a breaking point. This book is an ideal choice for older teens who enjoy dark fantasy worlds, complex political intrigue, and heart-pounding betrayal. It is a must-read for fans of high-tension series like The Hunger Games and Fourth Wing.

Highlights:

• Intense 'hunter vs. hunted' dynamic with deep emotional stakes
• Expansive world-building featuring new, dangerous territories
• Exploration of complex social themes and class rebellion
• Dual perspectives that heighten the romantic tension and suspense

Rule of Wolves is the pulse-pounding conclusion to the King of Scars duology and a crowning jewel in Leigh Bardugo’s beloved Grishaverse. As the massive army of Fjerda prepares to invade Ravka, King Nikolai Lantsov must use every ounce of his wit and the dark monster within to protect his people. Alongside him, the powerful Stormwitch Zoya Nazyalensky must embrace her destiny as a living weapon, while the spy Nina Zenik wages a dangerous war from deep within the enemy's capital. This epic tale of magic, politics, and war is perfect for readers who love complex world-building and high-stakes storytelling.

Ideal for fans of the Shadow and Bone Netflix series and readers interested in intricate political intrigue, this novel explores the heavy cost of leadership and the lengths one will go to for their country. With its rich prose and deeply developed characters, it is a great choice for older teens who enjoy immersive fantasy worlds like those found in Six of Crows or A Court of Thorns and Roses. The story masterfully weaves together multiple perspectives to create a cinematic reading experience that is impossible to put down.

Highlights:

• The thrilling conclusion to Nikolai Lantsov’s journey and the King of Scars duology.
• Expands the magical lore of the Grishaverse with high-stakes battles and ancient powers.
• Features complex, diverse characters dealing with themes of grief, duty, and redemption.
• Perfect for readers who enjoy epic fantasy with romantic subplots and political maneuvering.

Step into the Old Kingdom, a land where the line between the living and the dead is thin and dangerous magic lurks in every shadow. Sabriel has spent most of her life at a safe boarding school in Ancelstierre, away from the supernatural threats of her homeland. But when her father, the Abhorsen—a powerful necromancer who keeps the dead from rising—goes missing, eighteen-year-old Sabriel must cross the Wall to find him. Armed with her father's silver bells and sword, she must venture deep into the realm of Death itself to battle a sinister Free Magic entity that threatens to consume the world.

Garth Nix’s Sabriel is a masterpiece of dark fantasy, offering a unique and chilling magic system that has captivated readers for over twenty years. This book is perfect for children who love immersive world-building, high-stakes quests, and strong female protagonists who must find their own strength in the face of overwhelming darkness. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in necromancy, epic battles, and stories that blend folklore with gritty realism. Fans of Six of Crows or Shadow and Bone will find themselves right at home in the atmospheric and haunting landscape of the Old Kingdom.

Highlights:

• A truly unique magic system involving seven musical bells used to control the dead.
• A powerful and determined female lead who grows into her destiny as the Abhorsen.
• A dark, atmospheric setting that masterfully blends high fantasy with elements of horror.
• Memorable companion characters, including the mysterious and sarcastic cat, Mogget.
• An epic struggle between life and death that explores themes of duty and sacrifice.

Shadow Kiss is the gripping third installment in Richelle Mead's best-selling Vampire Academy series. In this high-stakes adventure, Rose Hathaway is preparing for her final exams to become a guardian, but her world is unraveling. Haunted by the ghosts of her past and the weight of her forbidden love for her instructor, Dimitri Belikov, Rose must navigate a dangerous path where the line between the living and the dead begins to blur. As the threat of the Strigoi looms closer than ever, Rose faces a heart-wrenching choice that will change her life forever.

This book is perfect for teens who love intense paranormal romances and fast-paced urban fantasy. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in strong female protagonists, complex world-building, and stories that explore the depths of loyalty and sacrifice. Fans of series like Twilight or The Mortal Instruments will find themselves captivated by the dark, atmospheric setting and the emotional depth of Rose's journey. It’s a great choice for those looking for a story that balances supernatural action with poignant coming-of-age themes.

Highlights:

• Intense action sequences and supernatural combat training.
• A deeply emotional exploration of grief, trauma, and forbidden romance.
• High-stakes plot twists that redefine the series' direction.
• Strong character development for the fierce and relatable Rose Hathaway.

So Let Them Burn is a breathtaking Jamaican-inspired fantasy that will captivate readers who love high-stakes magic and complex family dynamics. The story follows Faron Vincent, a legendary heroine who saved her island from the dragon-riding Langley Empire at just twelve years old. Now seventeen, Faron finds herself a war hero without a war, until a peace summit changes everything. When her older sister, Elara, forms an unprecedented bond with an enemy dragon, Faron is faced with an impossible choice: follow the gods' command to kill her sister or find a way to defy fate itself.

This immersive debut is perfect for fans of Iron Widow and The Priory of the Orange Tree. It explores deep themes of colonialism, the weight of destiny, and the unbreakable bond between sisters. With its rich world-building and sharp prose, it is an ideal choice for readers interested in diverse mythologies and epic adventures. Parents and teens alike will appreciate the nuanced exploration of power and the difficult moral choices the protagonists must make to protect those they love.

Highlights:

• A unique Jamaican-inspired setting with rich cultural mythology and divine magic.
• A powerful story centered on the complex and unbreakable bond between two sisters.
• Thrilling dragon-riding action and high-stakes political intrigue.
• Explores deep themes of post-war identity, colonialism, and moral grey zones.

Spirit Bound is the high-stakes fifth installment in Richelle Mead's bestselling Vampire Academy series. After a harrowing journey to Russia, Rose Hathaway returns to St. Vladimir’s Academy to face her final exams and graduate as a Guardian. However, her heart remains heavy with the burden of Dimitri’s fate. This volume masterfully balances the pressure of academic graduation with a dangerous quest for a miracle, making it a perfect choice for readers who love complex characters and high-stakes supernatural drama.

Ideal for fans of urban fantasy and paranormal romance, this book explores the heavy burdens of loyalty and the lengths one will go to for love. As Rose navigates the dangerous world of Moroi politics and Strigoi threats, readers are treated to a fast-paced narrative filled with twists and heart-wrenching decisions. It is a great choice for older teens who enjoy strong-willed protagonists and intricate world-building that goes beyond typical vampire tropes. The emotional depth and evolving relationships make it a standout for those who appreciate character-driven storytelling.

Highlights:

• Intense emotional stakes and significant character growth for Rose Hathaway.
• A thrilling blend of supernatural action, mystery, and romantic tension.
• Deep exploration of loyalty, sacrifice, and the moral grey areas of redemption.
• Expands the lore of the series with new magical possibilities and political intrigue.

Terciel & Elinor is a captivating prequel to Garth Nix's legendary Old Kingdom series, offering a rich and atmospheric origin story for the parents of the iconic Sabriel. Set in a world divided by a Wall—where one side is a steam-age society and the other is a land of ancient, dangerous magic—this novel follows eighteen-year-old Terciel, an Abhorsen-in-waiting learning to lay the Dead to rest, and nineteen-year-old Elinor, who is unaware of her deep connection to the magic across the border. When an ancient enemy threatens both worlds, their lives collide in a whirlwind of charter magic, necromancy, and a burgeoning romance that will change the fate of the Old Kingdom forever.

This book is perfect for children and teens who love epic world-building and stories where magic feels both wondrous and perilous. Ideal for readers interested in dark fantasy, Terciel & Elinor balances high-stakes action with a deeply personal coming-of-age journey. Whether your child is a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer looking for a sophisticated fantasy adventure, this tale of duty and destiny is a great choice for those who enjoy the works of Sarah J. Maas or Leigh Bardugo.

Highlights:

• A thrilling prequel to the classic Old Kingdom series.
• A unique blend of steam-age technology and ancient charter magic.
• Compelling dual perspectives from two strong, relatable protagonists.
• Explores deep themes of legacy, sacrifice, and the power of love.

In The Burning Bridge, the second installment of the acclaimed Ranger's Apprentice series, young Will and his friends find themselves at the heart of a brewing war. As the evil Lord Morgarath prepares his final move against the Kingdom of Araluen, Will, Horace, and Gilan are sent on a diplomatic mission that quickly turns into a desperate race against time. This high-stakes adventure is perfect for children who love medieval settings, strategic battles, and the growth of a hero from apprentice to legend.

Ideal for readers interested in archery, woodcraft, and tales of bravery, John Flanagan crafts a world where intelligence and skill are just as important as strength. Fans of epic fantasy will be captivated by the bond between the characters and the mounting tension as they uncover a plot that could destroy their home. It is a great choice for middle-grade readers looking for a series that combines action with meaningful character development.

Highlights:

• Thrilling blend of tactical warfare and individual heroism.
• Strong emphasis on the value of friendship and loyalty under pressure.
• Engaging world-building that appeals to fans of classic fantasy.
• Fast-paced plot that keeps readers eager for the next chapter.

Twenty years after America Singer won the heart of Prince Maxon, a new era begins in the kingdom of Illéa. The Heir follows Princess Eadlyn, the first princess to hold her own Selection. Unlike her parents' legendary romance, Eadlyn is reluctant to find love through a competition, but she must fulfill her duty to the crown and her people during a time of political unrest. As thirty-five suitors arrive at the palace, Eadlyn discovers that opening her heart might be the hardest challenge of her life.

This captivating novel is perfect for readers who love stories about royalty, high-stakes competitions, and complex family dynamics. Ideal for readers interested in strong female protagonists navigating the pressures of leadership while trying to remain true to themselves. Fans of the original Selection trilogy will enjoy seeing the world through a new generation's eyes, making it a great choice for those who enjoy romantic dramas with a touch of dystopian flair and courtly intrigue.

Highlights:

• A fresh perspective on the beloved Selection universe featuring America and Maxon's daughter.
• Explores deep themes of duty, independence, and the vulnerability of falling in love.
• Features a strong-willed, polarizing protagonist learning the true meaning of leadership.
• Perfect for fans of royal romance and competitive reality-show tropes.

The Lost Stories is a must-read collection for fans of the Ranger's Apprentice series. In this eleventh installment, John Flanagan brings readers back to the kingdom of Araluen to answer the burning questions left behind by previous adventures. From the mysterious origins of Halt to the heartwarming wedding of Will and Alyss, these stories fill in the gaps of the epic saga, providing closure and new insights into the lives of the legendary Rangers.

This book is perfect for children who love high-stakes fantasy and tales of medieval heroism. Ideal for readers interested in master archery, stealthy scouts, and the deep bonds of mentorship, it serves as both a companion guide and a thrilling new entry in the series. Whether your child is a longtime fan or just finishing the main arc, this collection offers the same blend of humor, action, and heart that made the series a worldwide phenomenon. It is a great choice for young readers who enjoy immersive world-building and character-driven storytelling.

Highlights:

• Answers long-standing fan questions about character origins and fates.
• Features beloved characters like Will, Halt, Horace, and Alyss.
• Perfect for fans of Percy Jackson and Eragon.
• Includes a mix of action-packed missions and emotional character moments.

The Royal Ranger marks a powerful and emotional return to the beloved world of John Flanagan’s Ranger's Apprentice series. After a devastating personal tragedy, the legendary Ranger Will Treaty has lost his way, consumed by a dark desire for revenge. To save him from himself, his mentor Halt suggests a mission he cannot refuse: taking on a new apprentice. However, this apprentice is unlike any before—a rebellious princess who needs discipline as much as Will needs a new purpose. This gripping tale is perfect for children who love epic fantasy, medieval settings, and stories of redemption.

Ideal for readers interested in archery, woodcraft, and high-stakes missions, this novel explores the heavy burden of duty and the power of mentorship. As Will and his new charge investigate a web of crime, they must navigate dangerous territory where the line between justice and vengeance blurs. It is a great choice for fans of the Brotherband Chronicles or anyone seeking a story with deep emotional resonance and thrilling action. Parents will appreciate the themes of resilience and moral integrity that define the Ranger Corps.

Highlights:

• A high-stakes conclusion to the original Ranger's Apprentice arc.
• Explores complex themes of grief, healing, and the bond between mentor and student.
• Features a strong, rebellious female protagonist entering the male-dominated Ranger Corps.
• Packed with the tactical action and survival skills fans of John Flanagan adore.

In The Sorcerer in the North, the fifth installment of the beloved Ranger's Apprentice series, Will has finally achieved his dream of becoming a full-fledged Ranger. Assigned to his own fief, he quickly discovers that even the quietest corners of the kingdom hold secrets. When rumors of dark sorcery and a terrifying Night Warrior emerge from the frozen north, Will and his friend Alyss must embark on a dangerous mission to uncover the truth. Is there truly magic at work, or is a more human threat lurking in the shadows of Grimsdell Forest?

This book is perfect for children who love medieval settings, clever protagonists, and stories that blend action with mystery. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in archery, scouting, and tactical problem-solving. John Flanagan continues to masterfully build a world where courage and wit are just as important as skill with a bow. This gripping tale is a great choice for fans of high-stakes adventure who enjoy seeing a hero grow into his responsibilities.

Highlights:

• Will’s first solo mission as a commissioned Ranger.
• A spooky, atmospheric mystery involving rumors of ancient sorcery.
• The return of fan-favorite characters like Alyss in a central role.
• Engaging world-building that explores the northern reaches of Araluen.

In The Spook's Sacrifice, the sixth installment of the chilling Wardstone Chronicles, Tom Ward faces his most personal and perilous mission yet. As the Spook's apprentice, Tom is used to battling boggarts and witches in the County, but now his mother, Mam, calls him to her homeland of Greece. A terrifying ancient deity known as the Ordeen is poised to return, threatening to plunge the world into eternal darkness. With the Devil himself roaming free and seeking an unholy alliance, the stakes have never been higher for young Tom.

This dark fantasy adventure is perfect for children who love high-stakes supernatural battles and eerie atmospheres. Ideal for readers interested in mythology, folklore, and the classic struggle between light and shadow, Joseph Delaney crafts a world where every choice carries a heavy price. Fans of the series will be gripped by the deepening lore of Tom’s family and the escalating danger that tests his courage to the limit. It is a great choice for those who enjoy stories that don't shy away from the darker side of magic.

Highlights:

• An epic journey to Greece featuring ancient gods and dark mythology.
• High-stakes conflict involving the Devil and the return of the Ordeen.
• Deep exploration of Tom's family history and his mother's mysterious past.
• A perfect blend of horror, suspense, and coming-of-age character development.