Talon by Julie Kagawa is a young adult fantasy novel about Ember Hill, a teenage dragon who has been trained by the secretive Talon organization to live among humans in disguise. Along with her twin brother, she is sent to experience life as a human before being fully integrated into Talon’s plans. However, as Ember begins to enjoy her newfound freedom, she questions Talon’s strict control and purpose. She soon encounters Garret, a soldier from the Order of St. George, sworn to hunt down dragons, and Riley, a rogue dragon who wants to bring Talon down. Caught between loyalty, love, and rebellion, Ember must choose her path.
Powerless by Lauren Roberts is a young adult fantasy novel set in a world where magic determines power, but the protagonist, Mara, is born without any abilities. In a society ruled by those with extraordinary gifts, she feels invisible and powerless. However, when her brother is taken by the ruthless king, Mara embarks on a dangerous mission to rescue him, uncovering secrets about the kingdom—and herself—that could change everything. Along the way, she must navigate betrayal, unlikely alliances, and her own inner strength. The novel explores themes of courage, identity, and defying expectations.
Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead is a young adult paranormal novel set in a world where vampires coexist with humans. The story follows Rose Hathaway, a dhampir (half-vampire, half-human) who is training to become a guardian for her best friend, Lissa Dragomir, a Moroi princess. The Moroi are peaceful, mortal vampires, while their enemies, the Strigoi, are immortal and deadly. As Rose navigates her rigorous training, she must protect Lissa from both internal and external threats, while uncovering dark secrets within their academy. The book blends action, romance, and friendship, with themes of loyalty and sacrifice.
The False Prince by Jennifer A. Nielsen is a young adult fantasy novel set in a kingdom on the brink of civil war. The story follows Sage, an orphan who is chosen by a nobleman named Conner to compete against other boys in a treacherous plot. Conner plans to train one of them to impersonate the kingdom’s missing prince and place him on the throne to prevent chaos. As Sage navigates the dangerous competition, he must outwit his rivals and hide his own secrets. The novel is filled with twists, intrigue, and themes of identity, loyalty, and survival.
