In 'Ruthless Gods' by Emily A. Duncan, the dark and gritty sequel to 'Wicked Saints,' we are propelled back into a world steeped in blood magic and treacherous alliances. The story follows Nadya, Serefin, and Malachiasz as they navigate a landscape plagued by gods, monsters, and their own inner demons. The characters are complex, their loyalties constantly tested, and their sacrifices heart-wrenching. Duncan weaves a tale of power, betrayal, and the blurred lines between good and evil with her signature lush prose and intricate world-building. 'Ruthless Gods' will leave you breathless and craving for more.
Something Dark and Holy by Emily A. Duncan is a dark YA fantasy trilogy rooted in Gothic and “Joan‑of‑Arc” themes. Set amidst a century‑long holy war between the nations of Kalyazi and Tranavia, the series follows Nadya, a young cleric who can commune with gods and wields devastating magic. Joined by a wary prince and a boy harboring a monstrous secret, she must assassinate a king to halt the slaughter. Across Wicked Saints, Ruthless Gods, and Blessed Monsters, the story weaves brutal battles, political intrigue, haunted loyalty, and forbidden bonds. Savage yet haunting, the series blends divine power with human cost.
Emily A. Duncan is a prominent young adult fantasy author known for her dark and immersive storytelling. With a background in psychology and anthropology, Duncan brings a unique perspective to her writing, exploring complex characters and intricate worlds. Her debut novel 'Wicked Saints' instantly captivated readers with its blend of magic, politics, and brewing war, cementing her as a rising star in the genre. Duncan's writing style is characterized by lush prose and morally gray characters that challenge traditional tropes. Through her work, she has influenced a new wave of dark fantasy literature and continues to push boundaries in the genre.
by Laini Taylor
Series: Daughter of Smoke & Bone (#1)
Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor is a captivating fantasy novel weaving a complex tale of love, war, and identity. The story follows Karou, an enigmatic art student in Prague, who is drawn into a mystical world of angels and demons when mysterious black handprints appear on doorways around the globe. As she unravels the secrets of her own past, Karou discovers a world torn apart by a centuries-old conflict between seraphim and chimaera. The novel explores themes of belonging, redemption, and the eternal struggle between love and hate. Taylor's vibrant storytelling and rich, imaginative world-building culminate in a compelling narrative that will captivate readers and linger long after the last page is turned.
by L.J. Smith
Series: The Vampire Diaries (#1)
L.J. Smith's "The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening" introduces readers to the small town of Fell's Church, where teenage Elena Gilbert finds herself irresistibly drawn to the mysterious new student, Stefan Salvatore. As Elena bonds with Stefan, she uncovers his dark secret—he's a vampire haunted by his tragic past. The novel weaves together themes of love, identity, and supernatural intrigue, as Stefan's affections are tested by the arrival of his sinister brother, Damon, who brings chaos to the town and threatens Elena's life. Smith's storytelling captivates with its blend of romance and suspense, engaging young adult audiences with its vivid world-building and emotional depth.
Series: Falling Kingdoms (#3)
In 'Gathering Darkness,' the third installment of Morgan Rhodes' gripping 'Falling Kingdoms' series, the stakes are higher than ever as power struggles intensify across the kingdoms of Mytica. This fantasy epic weaves elements of magic, betrayal, and shifting allegiances, as new alliances form and old rivalries reignite. The story follows multiple protagonists, including Cleo, Jonas, and Magnus, as they navigate a perilous journey where friends can become foes in an instant. The narrative is rich with intrigue and action, capturing the reader with its well-developed characters and unpredictable twists. Rhodes skillfully blends these themes to craft a captivating tale of ambition and survival that hooks readers from beginning to end.
Series: The Twilight Saga (#1)
Stephenie Meyer's 'Twilight' is a compelling blend of romance and fantasy that has captivated readers worldwide. The story follows Bella Swan, a seemingly ordinary teenager, who moves to the gloomy town of Forks, Washington, and falls in love with Edward Cullen, a mysterious and handsome vampire. The novel explores themes of forbidden love, personal sacrifice, and the essence of humanity, all wrapped in suspenseful mystique. Meyer's portrayal of the intense chemistry between Bella and Edward has left a mark on fans of supernatural romance. 'Twilight' set the stage for a successful series, sparking a cultural phenomenon and attracting a massive young adult readership.