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Phantasma (2024), by Kaylie Smith, is a gothic fantasy romance in which a necromancer must compete in a deadly competition at a haunted manor to find her sister. She falls in love with a phantom. There’s also a ghost cat. Need I say more?

Written by Michelle J., Teen Services

For those who enjoyed the artwork of 'The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess' manga's adaptation, the artists brings a new story to life with Kamudo vol 1 by Akira Himekawa. Within a world run by demi-beings, before humanity was even a concept, demi-dragons maintained order within the skyborne paradise called 'Hinoaruchi'.

The fourth graphic novel in the Wings of Fire series switches to Starflight’s point of view, which changes the tone a lot since he’s more thoughtful and anxious than the others. The NightWing kingdom is creepy and unique, and the art makes it feel even more threatening. Starflight’s struggle with loyalty and bravery feels realistic, especially since he isn’t the “heroic” type. Some scenes are tense, especially when he starts realizing the truth about his tribe.

In this historical WWII fantasy, a British witch joins the war effort to help track down a dangerous magical relic before a coven of Nazi witches find it and bring it to Hitler. After a Nazi witch infiltrates the Royal Academy of Witches with devastating consequences, Lydia Polk wants to join the fight, but meets resistance from the elder members of her coven, who do not want to sacrifice any more lives in the service of a government that has forced them into hiding for generations.

The Hidden Kingdom might be the most visually impressive so far in the Wings of Fire series because the Rainforest Kingdom is so bright and colorful. Glory finally gets the spotlight, and she’s probably the most sarcastic and relatable dragonet yet. The plot about the disappearing RainWings is a little darker than I expected, but it makes the story more gripping.

The second graphic novel in the Wings of Fire series focuses on Tsunami, and you can feel her strong personality on every page. The SeaWing kingdom looks amazing in comic form, especially the underwater scenes. The mystery surrounding Tsunami’s family is interesting, and even though she can be stubborn, it’s easy to understand why she acts that way after everything she’s been through. The pacing is good, with a mix of action, secrets, and emotional moments.

The first Wings of Fire graphic novel does a great job introducing the world of Pyrrhia and the dragonets who are supposed to end the war. The art is colorful and really helps bring the dragon tribes to life, especially how different they all look. Clay is an easy character to connect with because he’s caring but also unsure of himself, which makes him feel realistic.

If you’re looking for an audiobook that feels like both a story and a retreat, The River Has Roots (2025) by Amal El-Mohtar is a beautifully woven tale you won’t want to miss. The soothing background noises transport you into the world of the narrative—like drifting along a riverbank, every sound adding depth and warmth.

Katherine Arden's most recent novel, The Warm Hands of Ghosts (2024), expanded my understanding of what a novel dealing with an actual historical event can do.

Sybil's job as a Diviner is to see the future at the cathedral she calls home, and lords from all over the kingdom make the journey to hear their future from her and her sister Diviners. One night, the king comes to visit to hear his future from Sybil. Among his company is a roguish, irritating, and handsome knight named Rory. 

A Far Better Thing (2025) is a darkly whimsical retelling of A Tale of Two Cities, in which the main characters are 'Mortal Servants of the Faerie Realm', stolen as babies, and their changelings, the people who took their place, their names and their lives.