About Burn The Kingdom Down: An action-packed enemies-to-lovers romantasy filled with a romance that will leave you breathless, betrayals that will rip your heart out, and a princess who will stop at nothing for revenge. Out April 7th 2026.

Whether best friends or rivals since birth, sisterhood is one of the most complicated, most fulfilling, and most enduring relationships we can experience.  No one knows you better than your sister, so no one can hurt you more deeply. This also means no one can love and understand you more completely.

As someone who is lucky enough to have two sisters, I’ve always been drawn to exploring this fierce, chaotic, and beautiful relationship in the books I write—as well as the books I read. From loving and loyal, to down-right devious (and even murderous!), here’s a list of my all-time-favorite YA sister fantasies for when you need a good dose of family drama.

No list of sister stories would be complete without the OG sister fantasy, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. When Katniss Everdeen’s younger sister, Primrose, is selected to compete in the Hunger Games (a brutal tournament where children are forced to fight to the death in an arena) Katniss volunteers to go in Prim’s place. It’s the ultimate example of protective big-sister energy, and Katniss’s love for Prim is a big part of what carries her through the games.

One the complete opposite end of the loyalty spectrum, we have triplet sisters Mirabella, Katharine, and Arsinoe from Three Dark Crowns by Kendare Blake. Once a generation, triplet queens are born—each with unique powers and equal rights to the throne. But only one sister can rule, and in order to wear the crown, they must kill the two who stand in their way. Sibling rivalry at its finest!

While some sisters are defined by rivalry and competition, others are almost codependent in their bond. Such is the case for Iris, Grey, and Vivi in House of Hollow by Krystal Sutherland. When enigmatic, oldest sister, Grey, goes missing, Iris and Vivi must unite to find her, unraveling dark secrets along the way. The intense bond between these three is quite eerie and unsettling. At times, they almost feel like a single creature with multiple heads.

If you’re looking for large family dynamics with lots of personalities at play, look no further than Erin A. Craig’s House of Salt and Sorrows. A deliciously macabre retelling of the Twelve Dancing Princesses, Annaleigh’s four older sisters have recently met tragic and untimely ends that might be related to the glittering, late-night balls her sisters have been sneaking out to attend. If Annaleigh can’t unravel the darkness plaguing her family, she might be joining her older sisters in an early grave—and condemning her younger sisters to the same fate.

Scarlett and Donatella Dragna, the sister duo in Caraval by Stephanie Garber, might seem like opposites who constantly annoy each other, but when Tella is kidnapped to use as bait in a magical, interactive game, Scarlett will stop at nothing to bring her sister safely home. Through the games’ deadly twists and turns, the sisters’ true hearts and loyalties are revealed.

Sometimes, the closeness of sisterhood can highlight their flaws and imperfections. Other times, the pedestals they’re placed on are so high, it overshadows the truth. When oldest sister, Rowenna, is sent as a captive bride to any enemy kingdom in Addie Thorley’s, Burn the Kingdom Down, younger sister, Indira, doesn’t know how to fill her sister’s perfect shoes—or function without her. And when Rowenna dies under mysterious circumstances, Indira takes her place, determined to punish Ro’s murderer and bring the entire kingdom to its knees. But when Indira arrives in enemy territory, nothing is as expected and everyone, even her sister, had secrets. Deadly ones.

The post YA Fantasies That Celebrate Sisterhood appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

FOLKLORE

Folklore retellings are undeniably spellbinding, often blending whimsy with magical beings and a twisty bargain or two… 

A Curse So Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer

With a captivating cast of characters, addictive romance, and an action-packed plot, A Curse So Dark and Lonely delivers a delightful YA retelling of “Beauty and the Beast.”

A Sorceress Comes to Call by T. Kingfisher

A Sorceress Comes to Call enchants as it reimagines the Brothers Grimm’s “Goose Girl,” blending forbidden magic, secrets, and murder in an irresistible Gothic atmosphere.

Call Forth a Fox by Markelle Grabo

Cozy with a tinge of darkness and filled with fae, curses, and sapphic love, Call Forth a Fox reimagines the story of “Snow-White and Rose-Red.”

Cinder House by Freya Marske

Cinder House is a “Cinderella” retelling brimming with haunting, magical world-building; an addictive queer romance; and a creative, propulsive plot that presents a fresh interpretation of Cinderella’s story while delivering delightful familiarity.

Gilded by Marissa Meyer

Gilded is a YA “Rumpelstiltskin” retelling filled with a tender romance, a haunted castle, wonderfully creepy beasts, and a dark yet welcoming atmosphere that captures the feeling of curling up in a blanket, a fire crackling beside you as a storm thunders outside. 

Hemlock & Silver by T. Kingfisher

In Hemlock & Silver, Kingfisher’s darkly enchanting prosepresents Snow White’s story through the gaze of a healer named Anja, adding even more adventure, poison, magic, love, and wit to the tale.

House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig

Ghosts, mystery, sisterhood, secrets, and horror fill the captivating Gothic atmosphere of House of Salt and Sorrows, presenting a new take on “The Twelve Dancing Princesses.”

Lady Tremaine by Rachel Hochhauser

Lady Tremaine explores Cinderella’s story from the “evil” stepmother’s point of view, revealing a whole new side of the story—one of motherhood, survival, glamor, decay, and love.

No Better Than Beasts by Z.R. Ellor

No Better Than Beasts reimagines the Nutcracker story with whimsical world-building and a twisty, addictive plot.

The Bone Spindle by Leslie Vedder

The Bone Spindle reimagines “Sleeping Beauty”with an Indiana Jones twist, delivering a cinematic YA fantasy of love, adventure, and found family.

The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea by Axie Oh

The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea is a whimsical YA retelling of “The Tale of Shim Cheong” filled with mythical creatures and vivid world-building perfect for fans of Studio Ghibli.

The House Saphir by Marissa Meyer

Murder, mystery, magic, mythology, and monsters unite to retell the tale of Bluebeard in The House Saphir.

Upon a Starlit Tide by Kell Woods

Combining “Cinderella” and “The Little Mermaid,” Woods creates a thoroughly spellbinding story of love, magic, seduction, secrets, and history in Upon a Starlit Tide, set in Saint-Malo, Brittany, in 1758.

CLASSICS

Retellings of classics delight as they explore old, beloved stories through modern lenses. Whether you’re new to classics or an avid reader of them, these retellings are the perfect way to introduce yourself to these timeless tales or revisit an old favorite.

For She Is Wrath by Emily Varga

For She Is Wrath is a fierce and addictive Pakistani YA retelling of The Count of Monte Cristowith action, romance, and female friendship.

Hungerstone by Kat Dunn

With a haunting, Gothic atmosphere; sapphic love story; and captivating horror and history, Hungerstone delivers a thrilling retelling of Carmilla.

Local Heavens by K.M. Fajardo

The Great Gatsby emerges with a cyberpunk twist in Local Heavens, featuring queer dystopian romances, tech-modified bodies, and a Filipino American Nick Carraway.

One for All by Lillie Lainoff

Sword fighting, sisterhood, secrets, and self-love abound in One for All, a gender-bent YA retelling of The Three Musketeers following a fierce heroine with a chronic illness. 

Sing the Night by Megan Jauregui Eccles

Sing the Night is a sweeping retelling of The Phantom of the Operathat brims with vivid imagery, magic, and music. 

Strike the Zither by Joan He

Strike the Zither is a cinematic YA reimagining of the Chinese novel The Three Kingdoms,filled with political intrigue, found family, and a gripping love story.

Within These Wicked Walls by Lauren Blackwood

Haunting and romantic, Within These Wicked Walls is an unputdownable Ethiopian-inspired YA retelling of Jane Eyre. 

Greek Mythology

Greek mythology retellings often feel nostalgic as I’m transported back to the plotlines, drama, magic, and chaos of the Greek mythology tales I adored as a child. If you haven’t yet dove into the treasure trove that is Greek mythology, never fear—these retellings are perfect for new and old fans alike:

Daughter of Sparta by Claire M. Andrews

Daughter of Sparta is an action-packed, fierce, and empowering YA reimagining of the story of Apollo and Daphne. 

Girl, Goddess, Queen by Bea Fitzgerald

Girl, Goddess, Queen is a fierce and addictive YA retelling of Hades and Persephone’s story, brimming with banter, fake dating, and a compelling cast of characters. 

I, Medusa by Ayana Gray

Exploring sisterhood, love, power, and feminine rage, I, Medusa is a lush retelling of the story of Medusa featuring a Black protagonist.

The Witch of Colchis by Rosie Hewlett

The Witch of Colchis retells the story of Medea with feminine rage, magic, and action.

Arthurian Legend

While I adore Arthurian legend, its portrayal of women is frequently less than favorable. Morgan le Fay often appears as a villainous crone, and Queen Guinevere’s character is usually passive and underdeveloped. Thus, I was beyond delighted when I discovered these retellings of Arthurian legend that shine a light on the power of women:

Legendborn by Tracy Deonn

Legendborn powerfully reimagines King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, presenting a YA dark academia novel with magic that powerfully explores racism and grief.

Morgan is My Name by Sophie Keetch

Morgan is My Name reimagines the early life of Morgan le Fay, highlighting her strength and presenting her tale with atmospheric world-building, lyrical prose, and political intrigue.

The Once and Future Queen by Paula Lafferty

The Once and Future Queen reimagines Queen Guinevere’s story with a cozy, adventurous, darkly magical atmosphere and a captivating cast of characters, including the spunky and fierce new Guinevere, Vera.

Shakespeare

William Shakespeare’s works brim with wit, drama, and even magic. His tragedies and his comedies are equally sweeping, and these retellings beautifully capture the exhilaration of reading (or watching) a Shakespearean play:

Lady Macbeth by Ava Reid

Lady Macbeth retells the story of Lady Macbeth, presenting a Gothic atmosphere; Scottish folklore; themes of power, patriarchy, and revenge; and a compelling main character who redefines what it means to be a witch.

Salt & Sugar by Rebecca Carvalho

Heart-warming, mouth-watering, and swoon-worthy, Salt & Sugar reimagines Romeo & Juliet in present-day Brazil. 

The Hundred Loves of Juliet by Evelyn Skye

Romantic, bingeable, and emotional, The Hundred Loves of Juliet retells Romeo & Juliet with a modern, magical twist. 

The post 30 Must-Read Retellings To Add To Your TBR appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

I invite you to join me in the settlement of Mistaken, where Greer McKenzie is trapped by the consequences of a greed driven settler around 100 years ago. While the land is rich with natural resources, they come at the cost of wolves, bears, and Bright Eyeds—monsters who have destroyed settlements around them. Except for Mistaken. They are protected by the Benevolence, Warding Stones that seem to loom protectively over the area. Greer is a mapmaker, dreaming desperately of exploring and one day leaving the settlement, though she knows she and her love Ellis Beaufort are destined to a life trapped within the town. When her beloved manages to escape through the Warding Stones, Greer is determined to do the same, and rescue him from his perilous fate. What she doesn’t know is that fate has set her on a course of truths that will change her world forever.

Despite the long summary, this book doesn’t feel like it’s very long. At least, it wasn’t for me. The book is very atmospheric, cold, and moody, much like the town of Mistaken. Greer is an eccentric young woman from the start, different from most in the town, and not satisfied with the status quo. Interestingly, there’s a pretty good exploration of privilege and wealth in this book, due to Greer being the daughter of the wealthiest man in town. Although she starts off a little self-involved at the start, she does have a bit of self-awareness of what her privilege has afforded her. When her love is tested, she also realises the limitations of the privilege and her role in the town. I felt like Greer was strong, if a little reckless, but I grew fond of her. It made a lot of sense how she and Ellis Beaufort fit together. I truly enjoyed their romance, I felt it was woven well into how the rest of the story was laid out.

The inspiration for this book was Tam Lin, which I will admit is not a story that I have previous experience with. When I went back and looked at the fairytale in question, I did feel like it had remnants of the story, but that this was not a retelling of the story. This might bother some that like to read retellings, but if you approach this story without those reservations, it will be quite an enjoyable read. The aspects of the fairytale that I found parallels between were a strong heroine, and a couple of other things that might spoil aspects of the story that I truly enjoyed. What I liked most of all, was the exploration of the Bright-Eyeds. It was a bit of an odd twist that I wasn’t quite expecting, and it made me all the more curious for more lore. Definitely could have been an interesting effect of colonialism. It did give me something to think about once I finished the book.

We wrap this book up with an ambiguously bitter sweet ending that is true to Erin’s previous books. I couldn’t get this book out of my head for several days after I finished it, and wished I could go find another book with similar vibes to it. I genuinely encourage you to grab a copy!

A Land So Wide is available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org, and other good book retailers, like your local bookstore.

Will you be picking up A Land So Wide? Tell us in the comments below!

Synopsis

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Thirteenth Child comes an irresistible blend of dark fairytale and romantic fantasy. • The town of Mistaken has a secret…and it’s up to one woman to uncover the truth, confront her past, and save the man she loves.

Like everyone else in the settlement of Mistaken, Greer Mackenzie is trapped. Founded by an ambitious lumber merchant, the village is blessed with rich natural resources that have made its people prosperous—but at a cost. The same woods that have lined the townsfolks’ pockets harbor dangerous beasts: wolves, bears, and the Bright-Eyeds—monsters beyond description who have rained utter destruction down on nearby settlements. But Mistaken’s founders made a deal with the mysterious Benevolence: the Warding Stones that surround the town will keep the Bright-Eyeds out—and the town’s citizens in. Anyone who spends a night within Mistaken’s borders belongs to it forever.

Greer, a mapmaker and eccentric dreamer, has always ached to explore the world outside, even though she knows she and her longtime love, Ellis Beaufort, will never see it. Until, on the day she and Ellis are meant to finally begin their lives together, Greer watches in horror as her beloved disappears beyond the Warding Stones, pursued by a monstrous creature. Determined to rescue Ellis, she figures out a way to defy Mistaken’s curse and begins a trek through the cold and pitiless wilderness. But there, Greer is hunted, not only by the ruthless Bright-Eyeds but by the secret truths behind Mistaken’s founding and her own origins.

Playfully drawing from Scottish folklore, Erin A. Craig’s adult debut is both a deeply atmospheric and profoundly romantic exploration of freedom versus security: a stunning celebration of one woman’s relentless bravery on a quest to reclaim her lost love—and seize her own future.

The post Review: A Land So Wide by Erin A. Craig appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Hazel Trepas has never been like her siblings. As the thirteenth child born to her family and promised to one of the gods, she has been waiting her entire life to be whisked away by Merrick, the God of death. When Merrick finally arrives, he tells Hazel of his grand plans for her life as one of the most celebrated healers. To do this, Merrick has blessed her with the ability to see the ailments of the sick. Unfortunately, she also sees those that Death is claiming and must end their suffering. She’s haunted by those she’s taken, and when she is placed in the royal court to heal a dying king. She knows what she must do, but her heart is urging her to defy Death itself, which may have devastating consequences.

This is such an incredible story from beginning to end. Hazel hasn’t had the luckiest of lives, and what’s more, she’s so desperate to be acknowledged and loved. As a thirteenth child, she’s been promised to a higher purpose, that she’s unable to fulfil until Merrick arrives. Waiting for her Godfather has been full of pain, and loneliness. When Merrick finally comes for Hazel, her relationship with him only gets more complicated as she’s working on becoming a healer. Complicated doesn’t even begin to define how I felt about Hazel. It took me quite a while to figure out why I was frustrated at first, and when I finally figured it out, some of the themes of this book became more defined.

What I loved most about this book was the thorough exploration of what it might mean to be human. Merrick isn’t the only God that Hazel interacts with, which I won’t go into too much detail because of spoilers, but despite all of the unfortunate circumstances that have happened to Hazel, they have not stripped her of her ability to be compassionate, to fall in love. Even when that compassion has her seeing ghosts of those she’s killed rather than let suffer. Even when her actions have serious consequences to the delicate balance of the world she lives in. Hazel is the epitome of the phrase “to err is human”.

Although there is romance within this book, that’s not quite what I focused on this time. This time, it was the love between a father and daughter. Merrick and Hazel has a tenuous relationship at the beginning because of the mystery surrounding the events of her birth. However, Merrick is a surprisingly warm god toward Hazel and loves her as his own child, despite lacking some of the “human-ness” that would help him understand her better. The one thing that he shares with Hazel is the longing for companionship. There’s so much more I want to say about him but that gets into spoilers, but I did love Merrick a lot, even if he had trouble figuring out the idea of an apology.

There is a larger story surrounding Hazel, and as she navigates it all, I loved the way that small actions have larger consequences. Craig created such an incredible world and the ending was perfect for the book in my opinion, and made me want to wrap myself up in a blanket and tell this story to someone else. This story melds into something beautiful that you almost forget you’re in a fairytale. Each world that Craig crafts is based on a fairytale, but has taken a life of its own and become something more. I have two copies of this book because I loved it so much, and I hope you pick up your own as well.

The Thirteenth Child is available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other good book retailers, like your local bookstore.

Will you be picking up The Thirteenth Child? Tell us in the comments below!

Synopsis | Goodreads

This is the story of Hazel, a young healer navigating a ruthless court to save the life of the king, grappling with a pantheon of gods with questionable agendas as she fights for agency and true love in her own life as the goddaughter of none other than Death himself.

All gifts come with a price.

Hazel Trépas has always known she wasn’t like the rest of her siblings. A thirteenth child, promised away to one of the gods, she spends her childhood waiting for her godfather—Merrick, the Dreaded End—to arrive.

When he does, he lays out exactly how he’s planned Hazel’s future. She will become a great healer, known throughout the kingdom for her precision and skill. To aid her endeavors, Merrick blesses Hazel with a gift, the ability to instantly deduce the exact cure needed to treat the sick.

But all gifts come with a price. Hazel can see when Death has claimed a patient—when all hope is gone—and is tasked to end their suffering, permanently. Haunted by the ghosts of those she’s killed, Hazel longs to run. But destiny brings her to the royal court, where she meets Leo, a rakish prince with a disdain for everything and everyone. And it’s where Hazel faces her biggest dilemma yet—to save the life of a king marked to die. Hazel knows what she is meant to do and knows what her heart is urging her toward, but what will happen if she goes against the will of Death?

From the astonishing mind of Erin A. Craig comes the breathtaking fairy tale retelling readers have been waiting for— what does a life well-lived mean, and how do we justify the impossible choices we make for the ones we love?

The post Review: The Thirteenth Child by Erin A. Craig appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Your TBR better watch out because there are so many spectacular YA books hitting shelves over the next few months! With new releases from Amie Kaufman, Lexi Ryan, Karen M. McManus, Maureen Johnson, Sarah Henning, Lynn Painter, Danielle Paige, Kalyn Josephson, and Courtney Gould, along with a few debut novels, there’s something for every reader to pick up and enjoy between July and December!

Read on to discover just a few of our picks and also be sure to check out our Most Anticipated and Swoonworthy Romance lists for more releases!

JULY 2024

The Heart of the World by Amie Kaufman

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Magic and sacrifice will collide as lovers and gods, enemies and allies vie for the fate of the world in this heart-pounding sequel to THE ISLES OF THE GODS, which Stephanie Garber called “deliciously diabolical and full of heart.” (Now publishes in September 2024)

Our Wicked Histories by Amy Goldsmith

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A teen girl’s attempt to make amends with her former friend group takes a sinister turn during a weekend getaway at an ancestral Irish estate in this atmospheric, literary horror from the author of Those We Drown.

Cursed Boys and Broken Hearts by Adam Sass

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A swoony contemporary romance from Adam Sass following a boy who is cursed to doom any romantic relationship—and the summer that changes everything.

A Darker Mischief by Derek Milman

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The Honeys meets The Secret History in a work of dark academia like no other — a boarding school thriller about a queer teen from Mississippi who finds himself swept into a world of old money, privilege, and the secret society at the heart of it all.

A Magic Fierce and Bright by Hemant Nayak

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A young technomancer teams up with a handsome thief to save her sister in this propulsive, magic-filled young adult fantasy that is perfect for fans of Gearbreakers and Iron Widow.

The Blonde Dies First by Joelle Wellington

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A group of friends fight to choose their own fates in this trope-savvy, self-referential young adult thriller from the acclaimed author of Their Vicious Games, about a demonic force that acts according to horror movie rules in the spirit of the Scream movies.

Beneath These Cursed Stars by Lexi Ryan

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From #1 New York Times bestselling author Lexi Ryan comes a romantic fantasy in which a human princess armed with death’s kiss and a fae shifter on the run become unlikely allies when a mission to assassinate an evil king collides with a fatal prophecy.

Ready or Not by Andi Porretta

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An anxious teen hopes that a summer of adventure and offbeat dares will keep her friend group together after graduation in this luminous coming-of-age graphic novel with the feel-good vibes of Booksmart and Morgan Matson’s Since You’ve Been Gone.

Such Charming Liars by Karen M. McManus

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The newest mystery from the author One of Us Is Lying, the Queen of thrillers, Karen M. McManus! When mother-daughter grifters set out on their final job, the heist gets deadly and dangerously personal.

Break to You by Neal Shusterman, Debra Young and Michelle Knowlden

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Bestselling author of Scythe and Challenger Deep Neal Shusterman, here with coauthors Debra Young and Michelle Knowlden, tells an intense yet tender story of two teens, trapped in impossible circumstances and unjust systems, willing to risk everything for love—no matter the consequences.

So Witches We Became by Jill Baguchinsky

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A queer, feminist spin on Stephen King’s The Mist, this ode to female-rage is a perfect pick for fans of She Is a Haunting, and a reminder that if “boys will be boys”, girls will fight back.

Hearts Overboard by Becky Dean

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Set sail with this banter-filled rivals-to-lovers romance between a STEM-loving girl and a jock guy that will fill you with wanderlust…and have you rooting for love in the great outdoors!

AUGUST 2024

Ami by S. Jae-Jones

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Filled with adventure, romance and a race against time, Guardians of Dawn: Ami is the next book in the richly imagined Guardians of Dawn series.

The Dark We Know by Wen-yi Lee

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From Gillian Flynn Books, a lyrical young adult horror by debut author Wen-yi Lee that’s perfect for fans of She Is a Haunting, Stephen King’s IT, and The Haunting of Hill House.

Death at Morning House by Maureen Johnson

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From the bestselling author of the Truly Devious books, Maureen Johnson, comes a new stand-alone YA about a teen who uncovers a mystery while working as a tour guide on an island and must solve it before history repeats itself.

This Ravenous Fate by Hayley Dennings

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The first book in a decadent fantasy duology set in Jazz Age Harlem, where at night the dance halls come to life―and death waits in the dark.

A Banh Mi for Two by Trinity Nguyen

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In this sweet sapphic romance about two foodies in love, Vivi meets Lan while studying abroad in Vietnam and they spend the semester unraveling their families’ histories―and eating all the street food in Sài Gòn.

Everything We Never Had by Randy Ribay

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From the author of the National Book Award finalist Patron Saints of Nothing comes an emotionally charged, moving novel about four generations of Filipino American boys grappling with identity, masculinity, and their fraught father-son relationships.

The Empire Wars by Akana Phenix

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The Empire Wars is a powerful new YA fantasy in which magic may be a young woman’s only hope for survival.

Wisteria by Adalyn Grace

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#1 New York Times bestselling author Adalyn Grace delivers a sensational conclusion to the deathly and decadent Belladonna trilogy, with dramatic twists and a seductive new romance that will set readers’ hearts ablaze.

Come Out, Come Out by Natalie C. Parker

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A spine-tingling LGBTQIA+ YA horror about queer teens who accidentally invoke a twisted spirit who promises help but delivers something sinister.

Silent Sister by Megan Davidhizar

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The must-read suspense novel of the summer about a mysterious sister’s disappearance, her biggest betrayal and a deadly truth screaming to come out.  

Practical Rules for Cursed Witches by Kayla Cottingham

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From the New York Times bestselling author of My Dearest Darkest comes a sapphic fantasy adventure about a teen witch who must complete her magical training by breaking a powerful family’s curse. But her own affliction—to never find true love—gets in the way when she falls for the girl she’s trying to save.

Under The Surface by Diana Urban

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An epic survival-thriller about four teens who get lost in the Paris catacombs for days—a gripping and propulsive story of love, danger, betrayal, and hope… even when all seems lost.

SEPTEMBER 2024

Payal Mehta’s Romance Revenge Plot by Preeti Chhibber

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This laugh-out-loud debut romance introduces perfectly imperfect Payal Mehta, whose plan to get her long-time crush to finally notice her is destined for success, but only if she ignores her budding feelings for her archnemesis…

Compound Fracture by Andrew Joseph White

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A queer Appalachian thriller that pulls no punches—following a trans autistic teen who’s drawn into the generational struggle between the rural poor and those who exploit them.

The Lies We Conjure by Sarah Henning

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Knives Out meets The Inheritance Games with magic in this standalone supernatural thriller by Sarah Henning: thirteen witches, a locked-room murder, and two non-magical sisters trapped in a deadly whodunit.

The Thirteenth Child by Erin A. Craig

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From the astonishing mind of Erin A. Craig comes the breathtaking fairy tale retelling readers have been waiting for— what does a life well-lived mean, and how do we justify the impossible choices we make for the ones we love?

Everything Glittered by Robin Talley

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In this queer historical thriller from a New York Times bestselling author, society girls try to find a murderer in a city filled with secrets and stunted by shame. Perfect for fans of Last Night at the Telegraph Club.

When Haru Was Here by Dustin Thao

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From the New York Times bestselling author Dustin Thao, We Are Okay meets Wandavision in this novel about loss, and learning to let go.

The Monstrous Kind by Lydia Gregovic

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An atmospheric, haunting, romantasy inspired by Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility, set in a Regency England about two sisters fighting to hold on to their manor while deadly monsters prowl along its perimeters—perfect for fans of House of Salt and Sorrows and Anatomy: A Love Story.

The Hysterical Girls of St. Bernadette’s by Hanna Alkaf

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An all-girls school is struck with mysterious cases of screaming hysteria in this chilling dark academia thriller haunted by a deeply buried history clawing to the light.

Nothing Like the Movies by Lynn Painter

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In this highly anticipated sequel to the New York Times bestselling Better than the Movies, Wes and Liz struggle to balance their feelings for each other with the growing pains of being a college student.

To The Bone by Alena Bruzas

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This moving and tragic love story is also a starkly honest look at Colonial America, set during the “Starving Time” in Jamestown.

Spells To Forget Us by Aislinn Brophy

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A witch and a non-magical girl get stuck in an endless cycle of meet-cutes and breakups in this heart-stopping romantic young adult fantasy.

Faeries Never Lie, Edited by Zoraida Córdova and Natalie C. Parker

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Faeries Never Lie, the next young adult collection in the Untold Legends series edited by Zoraida Córdova and Natalie C. Parker, is filled with fourteen short stories to revel in, that center faeries of varying genders and cultures!

OCTOBER 2024

Tangleroot by Kalela Williams

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In this debut novel, chosen by booksellers as an Indies Introduce selection, a girl must face hard truths about blood and family, history and mystery.

Inheritance of Scars by Crystal Seitz

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House of Roots and Ruin meets The Darkest Part of the Forest in this gorgeous dark fantasy debut steeped in Norse mythology that follows a teen who accidentally awakens an imprisoned draugr and must follow him into a deadly magical forest to rescue her grandmother.

Spell of the Sinister by Danielle Paige

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In New York Times bestselling author Danielle Paige’s wickedly fresh take on beloved tales, the fairy godmothers make the rules. Be careful what you wish for . . .

Make My Wish Come True by Rachael Lippincott and Alyson Derrick

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‘Tis the season for holiday hijinks in the newest sapphic rom-com about a rising star and a small town girl going on twelve fake holidates from the New York Times bestselling authors of She Gets the Girl, Rachael Lippincott and Alyson Derrick!

The Wild Huntress by Emily Lloyd-Jones

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Dive into a lush, standalone fantasy, set in the same world as The Drowned Woods and The Bone Houses, about a deadly competition—perfect for fans of Holly Black and Erin A. Craig.

Twenty-Four Seconds from Now by Jason Reynolds

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#1 New York Times bestselling author Jason Reynolds tackles it—you know…it—from the guy’s perspective in this unfiltered and undeniably sweet stream of consciousness story of a teen boy about to experience a huge first.

Eleven Houses by Colleen Oakes

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Midnight Mass meets The Vampire Diaries in this epic romantic tale of a mysterious island and the houses who have stood for centuries to guard against the dreaded nightmare of beings waiting to strike from the ocean’s depths.

For She Is Wrath by Emily Varga

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A sweeping, Pakistani romantic fantasy retelling of The Count of Monte Cristo, where one girl seeks revenge against those who betrayed her—including the boy she used to love.

The Dividing Sky by Jill Tew

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Serpent & Dove meets Arcane in this dystopian romance debut that follows a cunning memory merchant who deals a little extra happiness on the side and the handsome rookie officer on her tail!

Fledgling: The Keeper’s Records of Revolution by S. K. Ali

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The first book in a gripping duology from acclaimed author S.K. Ali introduces a fractured world on the brink of either enlightenment or war.

Inferno’s Heir by Tiffany Wang

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Fearing for her life, an outcast princess joins the rebellion against her own kingdom and family. . . but when playing with fire, someone always gets burned. 

The Debutantes by Olivia Worley

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Jessica Goodman meets The Agathas in this taut, twisty YA thriller set in the glittering world of Mardi Gras in New Orleans, where secrets–and bodies–never stay buried.

NOVEMBER 2024

Heist Royale by Kayvion Lewis

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The new Gambit takes Ross and her crew into the intoxicating casinos of Monte Carlo and across treacherous snow-covered slopes in Antarctica as Ross competes against Devroe in a fight for her life. Loyalties will be tested, backs stabbed, hearts broken. May the best thief win.

Darkly by Marisha Pessl

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A seemingly ordinary high school student. A mysterious summer internship. And a legendary game designer, now dead, leaving a dark legacy. The New York Times bestselling author of Night Film spins a twisted web in this masterful YA psychological thriller.

I Am the Dark That Answers When You Call by Jamison Shea

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Jamison Shea’s sharp and unflinching voice will bring readers to terrifying new heights in this vicious sequel to the “relentlessly gory and almost euphoric in its embrace of the horrific” (NPR) I Feed Her to the Beast and the Beast is Me.

The Whispering Night by Susan Dennard

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The forest is more dangerous than ever in this highly-anticipated, pulse-pounding, and swoon-worthy conclusion to the bestselling Luminaries trilogy.

Rani Choudhury Must Die by Adiba Jaigirdar

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In this sapphic dual POV Young Adult romance by Adiba Jaigirdar, Meghna and Rani (ex-best-friends-turned-rivals) realize they’re dating the same guy, so they team up to beat and expose him at a big science competition!

When Mimi Went Missing by Suja Sukumar

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The splintered relationship between two Indian American cousins is at the center of this dark, twisty YA mystery—perfect for fans of Tiffany D. Jackson, Karen McManus, and Angeline Boulley.

Midnights With You by Clare Osongco

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Fans of Susan Lee and Dustin Thao will be enchanted by this soulful YA romance about how we love, how we heal, and how we find the strength to go on.

Our Deadly Designs by Kalyn Josephson

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The Shadows Between Us meets The Scorpio Races in the epic conclusion to NYT bestselling Kalyn Josephson’s This Dark Descent, called “a fierce and darkly magical thrill ride” by acclaimed author Ava Reid.

Perfect Girl by Tracy Banghart

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Jessa has been raised to be the “perfect girl”, but things go south. A killer looking for the perfect girl has targeted Jessa, and she’ll have to reject everything she’s been taught if she wants to keep herself―and her friends―alive until sunrise.

If You Can Hear This by Faith Gardner

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The twisty, intricate mystery of I Killed Zoe Spanos meets the whip-smart sleuthing of A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder in the newest novel from acclaimed author Faith Gardner, in which a club of misfits must come together to solve a dangerous mystery—and learn to lean on each other all the while.

Dead Girls Don’t Dream by Nino Cipri

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There are rules for Voynich Woods: Always carry a whistle. Never go alone. Always come home before dark. And if anyone calls your name, don’t answer. Because everyone who wanders from the path is never seen again.

Flopping in a Winter Wonderland by Jason June

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Sparks are flying in Winter Wonderland this Christmas in this LGBTQ+ young adult rom-com from Jason June, New York Times bestselling author of Out of the Blue, Jay’s Gay Agenda, and Riley Weaver Needs a Date to the Gaybutante Ball!

DECEMBER 2024

A Cruel Thirst by Angela Montoya

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A fledgling vampire and a headstrong vampire huntress must work together–against their better judgment–to rid the world of monsters in this irresistible romantic fantasy.

Dust by Alison Stine

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In this haunting, speculative coming-of-age novel about finding your place in an unforgiving environment, a partially deaf teen questions everything she knows about family, love, and her future.

Keep It in the Dark by Justin Arnold

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In this unashamedly queer, supernatural romance, Justin Arnold, author of Wicked Little Things, challenges the institutions that have sidelined queer love to the shadows, and brings it into the light.

We Are the Beasts by Gigi Griffis

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Deaths and disappearances pile up as a mysterious beast stalks the French countryside and two girls seize an unlikely opportunity that just might save them all—or serve them up on a platter.

What the Woods Took by Courtney Gould

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Yellowjackets meets Girl, Interrupted when a group of troubled teens in a wilderness therapy program find themselves stranded in a forest full of monsters eager to take their place.

You’re Dead to Me by Amy Christine Parker

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Gossip Girl meets Happy Death Day in this YA horror novel following high school outcast and anonymous social media gossip Ruby, who comes face-to-face with her own ghost dressed in a blood-splattered prom dress. With less than a week until the dance, Ruby must unmask her killer—or die trying.

What YA books are you looking forward to hitting shelves between July and December? Tell us in the comments below!

The post 66 YA Books Hitting Bookshelves Between July and December 2024 appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

While summer is often associated with relaxation, light-hearted books, and beach reads, it is also a great time to dive into the darker side of fiction! If you want to add some thrills to your summer reading list, consider these twelve young adult titles, ranging from summer camp mysteries to this year’s hottest new horror.

All The Dead Lie Down by Kyrie McCauley

A summer nannying position goes awry when Marin discovers a dark secret about the family she is working for. Offered the job by her favorite author and her late mother’s childhood friend, Alice Lovelace, Marin is initially excited to work for the family. But as Marin spends more time with them, she starts noticing peculiar behavior and strange occurrences, which leads her to realize that the Lovelaces are not at all what they seem.

Clown in a Cornfield by Adam Cesare

After the death of her mother, Quinn, and her father relocate to the seemingly normal middle-of-nowhere town of Kettle Springs. What was supposed to be a fresh start turns deadly when a series of murders begin at a party celebrating the town’s founding.

The Counselors by Jessica Goodman

Ava, Imogen, and Goldie have been going to the elite Camp Alpine Lake since they were kids. Now they are back as counselors, ready to take on a new role. This summer is different, though, when a boy is found dead and Goldie knows she saw Ava nearby.

This Delicious Death by Kayla Cottingham

Three years ago, a new sickness known as the Hollowing grew rapidly, causing a portion of the population to have a craving for human flesh. Scientists were able to find a cure—fake human meat—that would cause the world to return to normalcy. To celebrate their high school graduation, Zoey and her four friends attend a music festival, but the fun ends when attendees drop dead and people affected by the Hollowing are unable to control their cannibalistic urges.

Delicious Monsters by Liselle Sambury

Told from two perspectives through different timelines, this novel offers a different approach to the haunted house story. Daisy sees ghosts. It’s unavoidable, considering she lives in a city populated by millions of people. When Daisy’s mother calls, informing her that she has inherited a mansion, she gets to start fresh, but things take a turn when Daisy soon discovers that the property is haunted. A decade later, light is brought to the haunted mansion as horror podcaster Brittney decides to investigate cases about missing Black girls overlooked in the media.

Good Girls Die First by Kathryn Foxfield  

Thinking of going to a carnival this summer? You might want to rethink making plans after reading this murder-filled supernatural debut. Ava is among the ten teens who received an invitation to the abandoned carnival island, Portgrave Pier. Believing she is being blackmailed, she accepts this invitation without hesitation. Little does Ava know, the invitation is just the beginning of a twisted game where each teenager must fight to keep their deepest secrets hidden.

The Honeys by Ryan La Sala

After the strange death of his twin sister, Mars visits the Aspen Conservancy Summer Academy, a place where his sister attended each summer. The camp is known for its strict and traditional ideas, which makes it a toxic environment for Mars, but he is desperate to find the answers surrounding his sister’s death. At the camp, he is introduced to a mysterious group of girls known as The Honeys, and he suspects they have just the answers he is looking for.

House of Hollow by Krystal Sutherland

Grey, Vivi, and Iris mysteriously vanished when they were children, only to turn up a month later with no memory of what happened. They reappeared with their original hair turned white, their eyes black, and matching scars on their throats. When the oldest sister, Grey, disappears once again, Vivi and Iris are left with a sense of deja vu. The sisters will do anything to get Grey back, even if it means venturing into the depths of their dark and forgotten past.

House of Roots and Ruin by Erin A. Craig 

Twelve years have gone by since the events of “House of Salt and Sorrows”, and Verity, the youngest Thaumas sister, has spent her entire life confined within the walls of Highmoor Manor. Verity yearns for a taste of the outside world, so when she receives an invitation to paint a portrait of the Duchess’s son, she happily agrees. Her oldest sister, Camille, on the other hand, is hesitant to let her go and reveals that Verity has been seeing ghosts without her knowledge.

None Shall Sleep by Ellie Marney

Emma Lewis is a sole survivor of an attack by the horrific young serial killer, Simon Gutmunsson. Travis Bell is the son of a murdered police officer. The teenagers both carry personal scars from their encounters with violence and are recruited by the FBI to interview young serial killers and study cold cases. When a killer targeting teens is on the rise, Emma and Travis find themselves caught in a dangerous game of cat and mouse, where their own lives may be at stake.

Together We Rot by Skyla Arndt

In this slow-burn romantic horror set to be released on August 29, Wil Green wants nothing to do with her former childhood friend, Elwood. She’s convinced that his family is involved in her mother’s disappearance. When Elwood flees unexpectedly and seeks her help, Wil reluctantly agrees to meet with him. Together, they dig deeper into Elwood’s family’s history, and Wil realizes that there may be more to their strained friendship than meets the eye.

You’re Not Supposed to Die Tonight by Kalynn Bayron

For horror fanatic Charity Curtis, summertime means working at Camp Mirror Lake, where its visitors pay to get scared. As Charity prepares for the closing nights of the facility, she realizes her coworkers are nowhere in sight. What she doesn’t know, however, is that this summer will be different from any other, as the line between fiction and reality begins to blur and the horrors of Camp Mirror Lake become all too real.

The post Spooky Summer YA Book Recommendations appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

While I don’t necessarily think you have to read House of Salt and Sorrows before picking up this book, I think it would certainly add some clarity to the relationships that Verity has. To sum up the story, Verity Thaumas is on the precipice of adulthood and still living at Highmoor while her other sisters have moved on across Arcannia. When her sister Mercy sends word that the Duchess of Bloem is looking to have a portrait of her son painted, she takes her chance at freedom despite Camille’s desperate attempts to stop her. Unfortunately for Verity, she has been able to see ghosts her entire life. Undeterred, she makes her way to Bloem, where she falls for the lush scenery and for Alexander, the charming son of the Duchess. It isn’t long before romance begins to bloom for both, but something darker seems to have taken root at the estate.

From the very beginning, I was pulled into a world where things were not what they seemed. There are many twists and turns to this story that you won’t see coming and they will leave you gasping. Character-wise I don’t want to get into it because of spoilers, but Verity is a starry-eyed young woman who dreams of a life beyond. However, she shares a bond with her sisters that also keeps her from taking that ultimate leap into the unknown. There’s a lot of conflict as Verity comes to terms that her sister Camille’s attempts to control her life will ultimately suffocate her. She’s incredibly perceptive and cautious, but still has that innocence of someone having their first adventure. She’s also struggling to keep her ghost-seeing ability under wraps, which adds an element of suspense for the reader. For her though, the mistakes she makes could potentially be deadly.

I really loved the world-building taking place in terms of magic and gods. Although we don’t necessarily get to explore much of the world outside of Bloem, there is plenty to explore within the Laurent estate that will both fascinate and horrify. I was particularly fond of the botany aspect of this book. I’m a huge plant person and one of my favourite stories (allegory really) is Rappaccini’s Daughter. It definitely gave me some of those vibes, but leaning more into the gothic aspect of things (again, similar to Crimson Peak). It seems that each and every character has a secret they’re trying to hide, but it is only a matter of time before secrets are revealed.

Each of Craig’s books always has a romantic element that draws you into a warm and dark embrace. I don’t want to delve too far into it because I don’t want to spoil anything, but it is a very insta-love type of romance with something more. You’ll have to read it for yourself to see exactly what I mean. At times, I feel like the relationship develops more quickly than I was expecting, but in true Craig fashion, everything is meticulously plotted out for a reason. There are horror elements, just like with her previous books, and the ensuing nightmares that I had should be an endorsement to the book. They were beautifully wretched. You won’t be able to get this book out of your mind when you’re finished.

I don’t think there are enough words to recommend this book. If you are someone who are interested in trigger warnings, do know that there are elements of poisoning, murder, death, as well as physical assault. If these things will trigger you, I’d approach this book with caution. It is dark, certainly, but well worth the read if you can get through it. I’d recommend reading it during a rainy day, but if you’re at all like me, no amount of sunlight will be able to brighten the atmospheric vibes that this book gives off.

House of Roots and Ruin is available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other good book retailers, like your local bookstore, as of July 25th.

Will you be picking up House of Roots and Ruin? Tell us in the comments below!

Synopsis | Goodreads

A modern masterpiece, this is a classic Gothic thriller-fantasy from New York Times bestselling author Erin A. Craig, about doomed love, menacing ambition, and the ghosts that haunt us forever.

In a manor by the sea, one sister is still cursed.

Despite dreams of adventures far beyond the Salann shores, seventeen-year-old Verity Thaumas has remained at her family’s estate, Highmoor, with her older sister Camille, while their sisters have scattered across Arcannia.

When their sister Mercy sends word that the Duchess of Bloem—wife of a celebrated botanist—is interested in having Verity paint a portrait of her son, Alexander, Verity jumps at the chance, but Camille won’t allow it. Forced to reveal the secret she’s kept for years, Camille tells Verity the truth one day: Verity is still seeing ghosts, she just doesn’t know it.

Stunned, Verity flees Highmoor that night and—with nowhere else to turn—makes her way to Bloem. At first, she is captivated by the lush, luxurious landscape and is quickly drawn to charming, witty, and impossibly handsome Alexander Laurent. And soon, to her surprise, a romance . . . blossoms.

But it’s not long before Verity is plagued with nightmares, and the darker side of Bloem begins to show through its sickly-sweet façade. . . .

The post Review: House of Roots and Ruin by Erin A. Craig appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

There’s something about the dark—the unknown, the possibilities in the shadows. It’s thrilling, alluring, and makes an atmospheric backdrop for page turners. When Horace Walpole released what’s considered the first gothic novel, The Castle of Otranto, in 1764, he proclaimed that he was attempting to blend two kinds of romance, the ancient and the modern. What does that mean? In my understanding, he wanted to give readers an entry point into the gothic through both romantic relationships and familial ones.

I love that, and it’s an ongoing tradition. While the definition of “gothic novel” may have changed and expanded over the years, these 2021 YA fantasy reads draw readers in with a few enduring gothic features—their dark, twisty settings, hauntings, the unknown, and relationships with a lot of heart.

SING ME FORGOTTEN by Jessica Olson (March 9, 2021)

This spellbinding retelling of The Phantom of the Opera gives us a perfectly dark heroine, Isda, and a love interest sweet enough to eat up. Isda is stuck in the opera house, isolated in its shadows, and when she meets Emeric, she sees a way out.

With a morally grey female main character and a heartfelt romantic relationship that feels so real in all its imperfections (and one that will realllly make you want some caramels), Olson delivers on the gothic elements we’ve come to expect with exciting new twists.

LAKESEDGE by Lyndall Clipstone (September 28, 2021)

A dark mansion, a brooding young man, the lord of the underworld—what else could you want in a gothic fantasy? Well, Clipstone has even more in store with a dedicated brother-sister relationship that will make you fall in love with both our main character Leta and her brother Arien.

I was lucky enough to read an advanced copy, and with both sizzling romance and strong sibling bonds, Lakesedge nails both of these gothic expectations. Inject this one in my veins, stat.

DOWN COMES THE NIGHT by Allison Saft (March 2, 2021)

A snow-drenched crumbling mansion sets the scene in Saft’s debut, and it’s the stage for an enemy-to-lovers romance between the main character, Wren and the love interest, Hal. Wren’s a healer called on to treat her enemy, but they both discover there’s something bigger at play than their animosity.

Saft paints the setting in the soft-blue, muted tones of a dark, frozen landscape but the romance is all heat.

A DARK AND STARLESS FOREST by Sarah Hollowell (Sept. 14, 2021)

A dark, spooky forest is a cornerstone in gothic fiction and this book looks like it has acres of it. According to the blurb, the main character, Derry, must confront the darkness in the forest and the darkness within herself when her siblings start to go missing—confronting the darkness within is one of my favourite gothic elements.

With a found family of 9 sisters and what sounds like it’s sure to be a twisty mystery, this is one of my most anticipated gothic reads of the year.

WITHIN THESE WICKED WALLS by Lauren Blackwood (Nov, 9, 2021)

Another advanced copy I was so fortunate to read, because people—this one exudes gothic atmosphere. In an old mansion in the middle of the desert, Andromeda goes to work as an exorcist hired to expel the evil eye from the house. The premise is incredible and I loved, loved, loved the way Blackwood wove Ethiopian culture into both the setting and Andromeda’s work.

This is a book with visual thrills—think bleeding rooms and spider-infested cupboards—and a romance that kindles between the walls of a creepy library and the haunted estate. Within these Wicked Walls manages to make us thrill us with both the romance and the mystery in its pages.

SMALL FAVORS by Erin. A. Craig (July 27, 2021)

Another of my most anticipated 2021 releases, Craig’s sophomore novel has been compared to M. Night Shyamalan’s movie, The Village and I am *here* for that kind of claustrophobic atmosphere in a gothic novel. Add in mysterious disappearances, a quest to save both family and a love interest, and a monster in the woods and it sounds like we’re in for a dark treat.

STALKING SHADOWS by Cyla Panin (yep, that’s me!) (Sept. 14, 2021)

Stalking Shadows is a feminist, gothic retelling of Beauty and the Beast, where Marie must select her sister’s victims to protect her, but when a child turns up dead she’s forced to break the curse or face who’s really become a monster. 

Okay, so that’s the pitch. Let me tell you about the heart. I wanted this book to focus on sibling relationships, particularly the nearly-unshakeable bond that can be born of shared trauma. There’s also a thread of romantic love because hey, that’s fun. Oh yeah, there’s also a creaking mansion, dark forest, brooding lord. Gothic elements—check, check, and check.

The post It’s Getting Dark In Here—7 Gothic and Dark Fantasies With Heart appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Read on to discover just a few books releasing this month and tell us in the comments below if you’re looking forward to any of them!

The River Has Teeth by Erica Waters
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Lush and chilling, with razor-sharp edges and an iron core of hope, this bewitching, powerhouse novel of two girls fighting back against the violence the world visits on them will stun and enchant readers.

Curses by Lish McBride
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Curses is a quirky and delightfully fun gender swapped retelling of Beauty and the Beast that invites readers to explore what a fairy tale can look like outside of conventional gender roles.

Small Favors by Erin A. Craig
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From the New York Times bestselling author of House of Salt and Sorrows comes a mesmerizing and chilling novel that’s The Village meets Needful Things about what lurks in the shadows of the people you think you know.

The Taking of Jake Livingston by Ryan Douglass
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Get Out meets Holly Jackson in this YA social thriller where survival is not a guarantee.

The Monster of Her Age by Danielle Binks
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In a neo-Gothic mansion in a city at the end of the world, Ellie finds there’s room enough for art, family, forgiveness and love. A coming-of-age story about embracing the things that scare us from the author of The Year the Maps Changed.

When We Were Strangers by Alex Richards
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From the author of Accidental comes a gripping story about a teen grieving her father’s sudden death–and grappling with the shocking secrets he left behind.

Radha & Jai’s Recipe for Romance by Nisha Sharma
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To All the Boys I Loved Before meets World of Dance in this delectable love story that combines food, dance, and a hint of drama to cook up the perfect romance.

Flash Fire by T.J. Klune
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Flash Fire is the explosive sequel to The Extraordinaries by USA Today bestselling author TJ Klune!

You and Me at the End of the World by Brianna Bourne
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An addictive, smart, and swoony love story, this high-concept YA romance follows two teenagers as they discover that they are the last people left on Earth. It’s perfect for fans of John Green, Andrew Smith, Stephanie Perkins, A. S. King, Gayle Forman, and Adam Silvera.

What We Devour by Linsey Miller
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The eat-the-rich, deliciously dark fantasy you’ve been waiting for. A girl with the power of the banished gods must bind herself to a wicked Prince to save her crumbling world, as the poor are sacrificed to save the rich. It’s time for the wealthy to be devoured…

They’ll Never Catch Us by Jessica Goodman
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From rising star Jessica Goodman, author of They Wish They Were Us, comes a new fast-paced thriller about two sisters vying for the top spot on their cross-country team—until a teammate’s disappearance throws their lives off course.  

Summer in the City of Roses by Michelle Ruiz Keil
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Inspired by the Greek myth of Iphigenia and the Grimm fairy tale “Brother and Sister,” Michelle Ruiz Keil’s second novel follows two siblings torn apart and struggling to find each other in early ’90s Portland.

What July YA releases are you looking forward to? Tell us in the comments below!

The post July 2021 YA Book Releases appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Ellerie Downing is a young woman living in Amity Falls, a village that’s nestled within the Blackspire Mountain Range, isolated by the mountain range and a seemingly impenetrable forest. It’s said that the early settlers of the village battled devils in the woods, and when a supply crew goes missing, the villagers worry that the monster’s might have returned. As winter arrives, more strange things begin occurring, and all signs point to a devilish group that can fulfil the villagers deepest desires for a small favour. Unfortunately, their true intentions harbour some sinister intent. Ellerie will find herself racing to try to save her family, Amity Falls, and the boy she loves, before everything goes up in flames.

This story will reel you in from the start. It’s told in seasons, beginning at the height of the summer. Ellerie is learning beekeeping from her father, something she longs to be in charge of, but is facing the reality that she’s expected to marry and have kids, while her brother takes over everything. However, her brother has been missing most of the summer, and seems to be keeping secrets. Though they’re twins, they couldn’t be more different. Where Sam seems to be a little weak-willed, Ellerie is determined and follows through with her choices despite the consequences. Their personalities become more apparent as the seasons go on and devilish things begin happening.

I loved the worldbuilding taking place in this story because you truly get to know the village and the key players. The elders, the founding families, and the parson all play key roles in this story. Everyone knows each other, and helps contrive an incredible sense of community, but also makes betrayals sting that much more when they happen. Ellerie’s sense of duty to her family is strong, but with the failed supply run and the possibility of monsters, she’s weary of sending anymore men to their deaths. Her choice puts her at odds with her father, but she stands by her decision, supported by her mother. What stood out most strongly to me was that despite their disagreement, her father still sees her strength and ability to sustain the family farm when disaster strikes.

As the story progresses, it almost feels cinematic. We go from a peaceful-ish beginning to an ever-building chaos in the further seasons. Craig manages to write in this palpable tension that propels you to turn the page. Everyone starts to have issues, and the village folk seem to be making enemies of each other. The elders seem to be losing their ability to keep the peace, and the parson is using this to further his religious agenda. There’s no doubt that things are going to continue to get even worse before they get better. At one point, I found myself hunched over the book as if to brace myself for what was to come. The characters are being affected both psychologically and physically, and it’s a wonder what may be causing it all.

The monsters in this story are terribly wicked creatures, and I think readers will find them as fascinating as I did. The small favours seem so insignificant, but make such a huge impact both to the story and to the villagers.

Of course, my favourite aspect of this book was the romance. Much like the story, it starts off very subtly and then as the story intensifies, so does the romance between Ellerie and her stranger. I loved their interactions so much, particularly their beginning banter. His easy manner and Ellerie’s inherent distrust of him make for a great start to a romance. She finds herself seeking him out despite her better judgement.

The ending of this story seems a bit ambiguous, a little ominous, and will definitely make you wonder. I’m not usually a fan of ambiguous endings, but it works in this story. Overall, Craig has created a creepy masterpiece that is going to look lovely sitting next to my copy of A House of Salt and Sorrows. I can’t wait to see what creepy things she writes about next!

Small Favors is available from Amazon, Book Depository, and other good book retailers, like your local bookstore, as of

Will you be picking up Small Favors? Tell us in the comments below!

Synopsis | Goodreads

Ellerie Downing lives in the quiet town of Amity Falls in the Blackspire Mountain range–five narrow peaks stretching into the sky like a grasping hand, bordered by a nearly impenetrable forest from which the early townsfolk fought off the devils in the woods. To this day, visitors are few and rare. But when a supply party goes missing, some worry that the monsters that once stalked the region have returned.

As fall turns to winter, more strange activities plague the town. They point to a tribe of devilish and mystical creatures who promise to fulfill the residents’ deepest desires, however grand and impossible, for just a small favor. But their true intentions are much more sinister, and Ellerie finds herself in a race against time before all of Amity Falls, her family, and the boy she loves go up in flames.

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