Virtual bookshelf
Our partner secondary schools are invited to apply for a donation of 500 books - a mix of pre-loved and publisher-donated titles, gifted for your students to take home and keep.
The virtual bookshelf below showcases the incredible breadth and quality of publisher books available this term. Click on any image or title to view a synopsis. Unfortunately requests for specific titles cannot be fulfilled. We aim to give every school as many as possible of those highlighted below, including multiple copies of some titles.
Mo Merrydrew, fifteen-year-old Vampire Queen of Great Britain, has found a way to have her cake and eat it (and that’ll be a mini Battenberg, please). Becoming Vampire Queen wasn’t the easiest of decisions, but she’s settling into it quite happily, now that she has dreamy familiar Luca by her side and she doesn’t actually have to bite any humans. She now just has the … er … teeny-tiny task of finding a way to get all the vampires in the land to swear allegiance to her, and save them from the vampire hunters who are rapidly picking them off. Easy-peasy, eh? Throw in gorgeous Vanya, sent by the Vampire King of the East to keep an eye on Mo, unruly vampires hellbent on causing havoc and a dad with a dark secret, and that cake of Mo’s starts to look distinctly less appetising …
Author: Jo Simmons
Age Range: From 11 to 14 years
Mo Merrydrew, fifteen-year-old Vampire Queen of Great Britain, has found a way to have her cake and eat it (and that’ll be a mini Battenberg, please). Becoming Vampire Queen wasn’t the easiest of decisions, but she’s settling into it quite happily, now that she has dreamy familiar Luca by her side and she doesn’t actually have to bite any humans. She now just has the … er … teeny-tiny task of finding a way to get all the vampires in the land to swear allegiance to her, and save them from the vampire hunters who are rapidly picking them off. Easy-peasy, eh? Throw in gorgeous Vanya, sent by the Vampire King of the East to keep an eye on Mo, unruly vampires hellbent on causing havoc and a dad with a dark secret, and that cake of Mo’s starts to look distinctly less appetising …
A breathtaking YA novel set in Zimbabwe about freedom, inter-generational friendships and forgiving the past.
Tumi desperately wants to make the Zimbabwean national swimming team. Only in swimming does he escape the hatred and exclusion that his albinism brings him. But when he has to stay with his grandmother for a while, the trauma of the terrible thing that happened to him comes rushing back.
Can Ambuya reassure Tumi by revealing her own shocking past – a story riddled with racial hatred in war-torn Rhodesia, featuring murder and an illegal love? And what of Tumi’s suspicions that she was involved in his nightmare?
Author: Rutendo Tavengerwei
Age Range: From 12 to 18 years
A breathtaking YA novel set in Zimbabwe about freedom, inter-generational friendships and forgiving the past.
Tumi desperately wants to make the Zimbabwean national swimming team. Only in swimming does he escape the hatred and exclusion that his albinism brings him. But when he has to stay with his grandmother for a while, the trauma of the terrible thing that happened to him comes rushing back.
Can Ambuya reassure Tumi by revealing her own shocking past – a story riddled with racial hatred in war-torn Rhodesia, featuring murder and an illegal love? And what of Tumi’s suspicions that she was involved in his nightmare?
“Hunted and desperate, Abel only has one mission left that matters: save Noemi Vidal at all cost. But to do that, he not only has to escape the rallied forces of Genesis, he also must bargain with the one person in the galaxy who still has the means to destroy him: the daughter of his creator.
Alone in the universe, Noemi Vidal never wanted to be special. She only wanted to save her planet, Genesis, and after that, to save Abel. But now Noemi is something else, something more. Not quite mech, not quite human, Noemi must find her place in a universe where she is now utterly unique, all while trying to end Earth’s iron grip on the planets of the Loop once and for all.
The final battle between Earth and the colony planets is here, and there’s no lengths to which Earth won’t go preserve its power over the colonies. But Earth doesn’t foresee Noemi and Abel coming. And together, the universe’s most advanced mech and its first hybrid might just have the power to change the galaxy for good …”
Author: Claudia Gray
Age Range: From 12 years
“Hunted and desperate, Abel only has one mission left that matters: save Noemi Vidal at all cost. But to do that, he not only has to escape the rallied forces of Genesis, he also must bargain with the one person in the galaxy who still has the means to destroy him: the daughter of his creator.
Alone in the universe, Noemi Vidal never wanted to be special. She only wanted to save her planet, Genesis, and after that, to save Abel. But now Noemi is something else, something more. Not quite mech, not quite human, Noemi must find her place in a universe where she is now utterly unique, all while trying to end Earth’s iron grip on the planets of the Loop once and for all.
The final battle between Earth and the colony planets is here, and there’s no lengths to which Earth won’t go preserve its power over the colonies. But Earth doesn’t foresee Noemi and Abel coming. And together, the universe’s most advanced mech and its first hybrid might just have the power to change the galaxy for good …”
“The utterly compelling and darkly magical sequel to award-winning author Deirdre Sullivan’s PERFECTLY PREVENTABLE DEATHS
Look. Madeline. You’ve lost your soul. You’ve lost your freedom. You’ve lost a bit of your sister. What else could go wrong?
Catlin and Madeline are extraordinary sisters, living extraordinary lives – in a place that seems entirely ordinary, but which in fact seethes with secrets, both sacred and sinister. Ballyfran is a village where, for centuries, people who are not quite human have gathered. Catlin has already fallen foul of one such creature – a dark, vicious predator who almost killed her – and only Madeline giving up a part of her own soul was able to bring Catlin back from the brink of death.
Now, the girls are making their strange new lives: Catlin, haunted by what happened to her, is isolated and bereft; Madeline is learning ancient magics under the tutelage of local wise woman Mamó. Learning that magic isn’t mindfulness and hats. It’s work – hard work. And Madeline knows she has to keep watch. On her sister. On the things that happen. Notice things before they start to happen. And before long, they do …”
Author: Deirdre Sullivan
Age Range: From 12 years
“The utterly compelling and darkly magical sequel to award-winning author Deirdre Sullivan’s PERFECTLY PREVENTABLE DEATHS
Look. Madeline. You’ve lost your soul. You’ve lost your freedom. You’ve lost a bit of your sister. What else could go wrong?
Catlin and Madeline are extraordinary sisters, living extraordinary lives – in a place that seems entirely ordinary, but which in fact seethes with secrets, both sacred and sinister. Ballyfran is a village where, for centuries, people who are not quite human have gathered. Catlin has already fallen foul of one such creature – a dark, vicious predator who almost killed her – and only Madeline giving up a part of her own soul was able to bring Catlin back from the brink of death.
Now, the girls are making their strange new lives: Catlin, haunted by what happened to her, is isolated and bereft; Madeline is learning ancient magics under the tutelage of local wise woman Mamó. Learning that magic isn’t mindfulness and hats. It’s work – hard work. And Madeline knows she has to keep watch. On her sister. On the things that happen. Notice things before they start to happen. And before long, they do …”
“The third incredible installment of Garth Nix’s internationally bestselling OLD KINGDOM fantasy series, perfect for readers of Philip Pullman
Lirael has never felt like a true daughter of the Clayr, a powerful group of clairvoyant oracles responsible for assisting the Abhorsen and the Royal Family in keeping the Old Kingdom safe from the threat of the Dead. Not only does she look completely different to everyone else, she is long past the age that she should have received the Sight. She feels alone, abandoned, and utterly unsure of who she really is.
Meanwhile, across the Wall in Ancelstierre, Prince Sameth is equally lonely. He knows he has a great role to fulfil – he must one day take over as Abhorsen from his mother, Sabriel – but the prospect horrifies him. He fears the Dead, and after a terrifying incident with a rogue Necromancer, he is mortally afraid of his own destiny.
But unbeknownst to Lirael and Sameth, they are part of an even greater future plan. The forces of evil are growing once more in the Old Kingdom, and Lirael and Sameth will find themselves at the heart of a desperate mission to stop them.”
Author: Garth Nix
Age Range: From 12 years
“The third incredible installment of Garth Nix’s internationally bestselling OLD KINGDOM fantasy series, perfect for readers of Philip Pullman
Lirael has never felt like a true daughter of the Clayr, a powerful group of clairvoyant oracles responsible for assisting the Abhorsen and the Royal Family in keeping the Old Kingdom safe from the threat of the Dead. Not only does she look completely different to everyone else, she is long past the age that she should have received the Sight. She feels alone, abandoned, and utterly unsure of who she really is.
Meanwhile, across the Wall in Ancelstierre, Prince Sameth is equally lonely. He knows he has a great role to fulfil – he must one day take over as Abhorsen from his mother, Sabriel – but the prospect horrifies him. He fears the Dead, and after a terrifying incident with a rogue Necromancer, he is mortally afraid of his own destiny.
But unbeknownst to Lirael and Sameth, they are part of an even greater future plan. The forces of evil are growing once more in the Old Kingdom, and Lirael and Sameth will find themselves at the heart of a desperate mission to stop them.”
“The fourth incredible installment of Garth Nix’s bestselling OLD KINGDOM fantasy series, perfect for fans of His Dark Materials or Game of Thrones
Besieged on all sides, Lirael, Sameth and the Disreputable Dog are in for the fight of their lives. Chlorr of the Mask, under the control of the enormously powerful Necromancer Hedge, is determined to free Orannis the Destroyer – the greatest and most powerful Free Magic creature in the history of the Old Kingdom.
Only Lirael, newly come into her inheritance as the Abhorsen-in-Waiting, and only just beginning to understand her powers as a Remembrancer, has any chance of stopping the Destroyer – although she has no idea how. To make matters worse, Sameth’s best friend, Nick, seems to be helping the Destroyer, and there has been no word from the Abhorsen Sabriel or King Touchstone for days.
With only a vision from the Clayr to guide her, and the rather mixed help of her companions, Lirael must search in both Life and Death for some means to defeat the Destroyer. The Old Kingdom – and the world – is depending on her…”
Author: Garth Nix
Age Range: From 12 years
“The fourth incredible installment of Garth Nix’s bestselling OLD KINGDOM fantasy series, perfect for fans of His Dark Materials or Game of Thrones
Besieged on all sides, Lirael, Sameth and the Disreputable Dog are in for the fight of their lives. Chlorr of the Mask, under the control of the enormously powerful Necromancer Hedge, is determined to free Orannis the Destroyer – the greatest and most powerful Free Magic creature in the history of the Old Kingdom.
Only Lirael, newly come into her inheritance as the Abhorsen-in-Waiting, and only just beginning to understand her powers as a Remembrancer, has any chance of stopping the Destroyer – although she has no idea how. To make matters worse, Sameth’s best friend, Nick, seems to be helping the Destroyer, and there has been no word from the Abhorsen Sabriel or King Touchstone for days.
With only a vision from the Clayr to guide her, and the rather mixed help of her companions, Lirael must search in both Life and Death for some means to defeat the Destroyer. The Old Kingdom – and the world – is depending on her…”
“A guide for using creative writing to speak your own truth.
You are enough. You are interesting. Tell your story.
Celebrated writer Laura Dockrill knows that the best writing comes when you are speaking your own truth, with your own voice. Expressing yourself honestly is a powerful way to know yourself and grow to celebrate the exciting, creative, unique person you are.
When you are a teenager, everything feels different. How are you supposed to figure out who you are when it seems like teachers, parents, friends, the rest of the world, are all asking you to be something else? It can be overwhelming but the best way to steer yourself through this crazy, brilliant time is to hold on to your sense of you. Laura’s stress-free invitations to creative writing encourage you to find your voice, celebrate it and use it.”
Author: Laura Dockrill
Age Range: From 12 years
“A guide for using creative writing to speak your own truth.
You are enough. You are interesting. Tell your story.
Celebrated writer Laura Dockrill knows that the best writing comes when you are speaking your own truth, with your own voice. Expressing yourself honestly is a powerful way to know yourself and grow to celebrate the exciting, creative, unique person you are.
When you are a teenager, everything feels different. How are you supposed to figure out who you are when it seems like teachers, parents, friends, the rest of the world, are all asking you to be something else? It can be overwhelming but the best way to steer yourself through this crazy, brilliant time is to hold on to your sense of you. Laura’s stress-free invitations to creative writing encourage you to find your voice, celebrate it and use it.”
“Follow London’s newest detective, Enola Holmes, in her dramatic final adventure – from the series that inspired the films, starring Millie Bobby Brown.
Read them all before the next film lands!
May, 1890. Wolcott Balestier, the representative of an American book publisher, has arrived in London on a singular mission – to contract English authors for their latest works. When Balestier disappears on the streets of London one day, his great friend – Rudyard Kipling – bursts into Enola’s office looking for help in finding him. Brash and unwilling to hire a young woman, instead he turns to Sherlock Holmes. Convinced that evil has befallen Balestier, at the hands of rival American publishers who pirate the works of English authors, he sets the elder Holmes on the trail.
But Enola is determined to learn the truth behind the disappearance of the young American. Can book publishing truly be so deadly?”
Author: Nancy Springer
Age Range: From 12 years
“Follow London’s newest detective, Enola Holmes, in her dramatic final adventure – from the series that inspired the films, starring Millie Bobby Brown.
Read them all before the next film lands!
May, 1890. Wolcott Balestier, the representative of an American book publisher, has arrived in London on a singular mission – to contract English authors for their latest works. When Balestier disappears on the streets of London one day, his great friend – Rudyard Kipling – bursts into Enola’s office looking for help in finding him. Brash and unwilling to hire a young woman, instead he turns to Sherlock Holmes. Convinced that evil has befallen Balestier, at the hands of rival American publishers who pirate the works of English authors, he sets the elder Holmes on the trail.
But Enola is determined to learn the truth behind the disappearance of the young American. Can book publishing truly be so deadly?”
“An SAS team has been captured by a war lord who forces children to become soldiers.
The Special Forces Cadets are parachuted into the Congo rainforest to help the team escape. But the operation starts to go wrong right away. Can the SPECIAL FORCES CADETS trust each other? And the jungle is home to creatures even more deadly than desperate children with guns . . .”
Author: Chris Ryan
Age Range: From 13 to 15 years
“An SAS team has been captured by a war lord who forces children to become soldiers.
The Special Forces Cadets are parachuted into the Congo rainforest to help the team escape. But the operation starts to go wrong right away. Can the SPECIAL FORCES CADETS trust each other? And the jungle is home to creatures even more deadly than desperate children with guns . . .”
“The Girl from Everywhere, the first of two books, blends fantasy, history, and a modern sensibility. Its sparkling wit, breathless adventure, multicultural cast, and enchanting romance will dazzle readers of Sabaa Tahir and Leigh Bardugo.
As the daughter of a time traveler, Nix has spent sixteen years sweeping across the globe and through the centuries aboard her father’s ship. Modern-day New York City, nineteenth-century Hawaii, other lands seen only in myth and legend–Nix has been to them all.
But when her father gambles with her very existence, it all may be about to end. Rae Carson meets Outlander in this epic debut fantasy.
If there is a map, Nix’s father can sail his ship, The Temptation, to any place and any time. But now that he’s uncovered the one map he’s always sought–1868 Honolulu, the year before Nix’s mother died in childbirth–Nix’s life, her entire existence, is at stake. No one knows what will happen if her father changes the past. It could erase Nix’s future, her dreams, her adventures . . . her connection with the charming Persian thief, Kash, who’s been part of their crew for two years.”
Author: Heidi Heilig
Age Range: From 13 to 15 years
“The Girl from Everywhere, the first of two books, blends fantasy, history, and a modern sensibility. Its sparkling wit, breathless adventure, multicultural cast, and enchanting romance will dazzle readers of Sabaa Tahir and Leigh Bardugo.
As the daughter of a time traveler, Nix has spent sixteen years sweeping across the globe and through the centuries aboard her father’s ship. Modern-day New York City, nineteenth-century Hawaii, other lands seen only in myth and legend–Nix has been to them all.
But when her father gambles with her very existence, it all may be about to end. Rae Carson meets Outlander in this epic debut fantasy.
If there is a map, Nix’s father can sail his ship, The Temptation, to any place and any time. But now that he’s uncovered the one map he’s always sought–1868 Honolulu, the year before Nix’s mother died in childbirth–Nix’s life, her entire existence, is at stake. No one knows what will happen if her father changes the past. It could erase Nix’s future, her dreams, her adventures . . . her connection with the charming Persian thief, Kash, who’s been part of their crew for two years.”
“Donating your heart is the most precious gift of all.
LONGLISTED for the 2018 CILIP CARNEGIE MEDAL
Adam is a teenage boy who lives with his mum and younger sister. His dad has left them although lives close by. His sister no longer speaks and his mum works two jobs. Adam feels the weight of the world upon his shoulders.
Then his grandfather dies and in doing so he donates a very precious gift – his heart.
William is the recipient of Adam’s grandfather’s heart. He has no family and feels rootless and alone. In fact, he feels no particular reason to live. And then he meets Adam’s family.
William has received much, but it appears that he has much to offer Adam and his family too.
A powerful tale of love and strength in adversity.”
Author: Irfan Master
Age Range: From 13 to 15 years
“Donating your heart is the most precious gift of all.
LONGLISTED for the 2018 CILIP CARNEGIE MEDAL
Adam is a teenage boy who lives with his mum and younger sister. His dad has left them although lives close by. His sister no longer speaks and his mum works two jobs. Adam feels the weight of the world upon his shoulders.
Then his grandfather dies and in doing so he donates a very precious gift – his heart.
William is the recipient of Adam’s grandfather’s heart. He has no family and feels rootless and alone. In fact, he feels no particular reason to live. And then he meets Adam’s family.
William has received much, but it appears that he has much to offer Adam and his family too.
A powerful tale of love and strength in adversity.”
“The second book in a brilliantly funny YA series featuring the trials and embarrassing tribulations of teenager Gracie Dart. ‘Gracie Dart is the screamingly funny YA heroine I’ve been waiting for’ – Harriet Reuter Hapgood
Uncovering a family secret, Gracie decides she’s had enough of lies and pledges to be completely honest to everybody she meets. For fifty days, nothing but 100% brutal honesty at all times.
But total honesty doesn’t always go down well when you’ve got a family dinner to go to, a job interview to get through and a new girlfriend to impress.
And when Gracie finally goes too far, she realises she’s going to have to think creatively if she’s going to put things right.”
Author: Jess Vallance
Age Range: From 13 to 15 years
“The second book in a brilliantly funny YA series featuring the trials and embarrassing tribulations of teenager Gracie Dart. ‘Gracie Dart is the screamingly funny YA heroine I’ve been waiting for’ – Harriet Reuter Hapgood
Uncovering a family secret, Gracie decides she’s had enough of lies and pledges to be completely honest to everybody she meets. For fifty days, nothing but 100% brutal honesty at all times.
But total honesty doesn’t always go down well when you’ve got a family dinner to go to, a job interview to get through and a new girlfriend to impress.
And when Gracie finally goes too far, she realises she’s going to have to think creatively if she’s going to put things right.”
“Will the real Ibrahim Malik please stand up?
Ibrahim and Dexter have been best friends forever. While Dexter is always cool and confident, Ibrahim…well, Ibrahim’s dealing with a lot. Hiding his passion for comedy from his family, dealing with the pressure of being the oldest child in an immigrant family, and now he’s started having episodes he soon realises are panic attacks.
When Ibrahim has a panic attack on stage at a local stand-up competition, he runs off to a deserted room. There he finds Sura.
Sura is kind and helps him come to terms with his anxiety. He can open up to her in a way he’s never been able to with Dexter. But there’s also something strange about her – how much she knows about Ibrahim, and how she seems to disappear in an instant.
Will Ibrahim crumble under the pressure, or will Sura’s words be enough to help him? And what will happen when he no longer has her help?
A powerful contemporary novel tackling teenage mental health in boys.
Perfect for fans of John Green, Alice Oseman and Holly Bourne.”
Author: Yasmin Rahman
Age Range: From 13 to 19 years
“Will the real Ibrahim Malik please stand up?
Ibrahim and Dexter have been best friends forever. While Dexter is always cool and confident, Ibrahim…well, Ibrahim’s dealing with a lot. Hiding his passion for comedy from his family, dealing with the pressure of being the oldest child in an immigrant family, and now he’s started having episodes he soon realises are panic attacks.
When Ibrahim has a panic attack on stage at a local stand-up competition, he runs off to a deserted room. There he finds Sura.
Sura is kind and helps him come to terms with his anxiety. He can open up to her in a way he’s never been able to with Dexter. But there’s also something strange about her – how much she knows about Ibrahim, and how she seems to disappear in an instant.
Will Ibrahim crumble under the pressure, or will Sura’s words be enough to help him? And what will happen when he no longer has her help?
A powerful contemporary novel tackling teenage mental health in boys.
Perfect for fans of John Green, Alice Oseman and Holly Bourne.”
“The new dark fantasy romance novel from Alexandra Christo, author of tiktok sensation, to kill a kingdom.
Enter a world of Gods and monsters . . .
Atia is an immortal who feeds on fear and nightmare. As the last of her kind, she hides in the shadows of the world to escape the wrath of the vengeful Gods.
Silas is a Herald, carrying messages and ferrying the dead, as punishment for a past he can’t remember.
Atia would never dream of allying with someone like him, but when she breaks a sacred law and the gods send monsters to hunt her, Silas offers an irresistible deal: he’ll help her take on the Gods and get vengeance for her family. But in return, she must help him break the curse that binds him and restore his humanity. All they need to do is kill three powerful creatures: a vampire, a banshee and one of the very Gods who has destroyed both their lives. Only together can they finally rewrite their destinies.
Perfect for fans of Sarah J Maas, Tricia Levenseller and Alexandra Bracken, this is a thrilling fast-paced fantasy with breath-taking romance.”
Author: Alexandra Christo
Age Range: From 13 years
“The new dark fantasy romance novel from Alexandra Christo, author of tiktok sensation, to kill a kingdom.
Enter a world of Gods and monsters . . .
Atia is an immortal who feeds on fear and nightmare. As the last of her kind, she hides in the shadows of the world to escape the wrath of the vengeful Gods.
Silas is a Herald, carrying messages and ferrying the dead, as punishment for a past he can’t remember.
Atia would never dream of allying with someone like him, but when she breaks a sacred law and the gods send monsters to hunt her, Silas offers an irresistible deal: he’ll help her take on the Gods and get vengeance for her family. But in return, she must help him break the curse that binds him and restore his humanity. All they need to do is kill three powerful creatures: a vampire, a banshee and one of the very Gods who has destroyed both their lives. Only together can they finally rewrite their destinies.
Perfect for fans of Sarah J Maas, Tricia Levenseller and Alexandra Bracken, this is a thrilling fast-paced fantasy with breath-taking romance.”
“The hotly anticipated finale to the epic, fierce and magnetically addictive Caribbean-inspired Witches Steeped in Gold duology.
Bow down witches . . .
Enemy witches Iraya and Jazmyne have each achieved their darkest desires. For the former, the doyenne who killed her family is dead. For the latter, the crown has been won. For both, their treacherous alliance is over – until a hidden evil rises from their last adversary’s ashes, forcing them to join forces once more to defend Aiyca and their respective orders.
Laying claim to the island of Iraya’s birth right and the bloody crown Jazmyne wears, this mysterious assailant is rearing monsters in the name of war. A war neither Iraya or Jazmyne are prepared to fight. New alliances must be forged to protect Aiyca and once again the two witches must work together to defeat an enemy who threatens both their worlds. Who will be the one sitting on top of the throne in the end – Iraya, Jazmyne, or another?
Two witches. One motive. And everything to fight for.”
Author: Ciannon Smart
Age Range: From 13 years
“The hotly anticipated finale to the epic, fierce and magnetically addictive Caribbean-inspired Witches Steeped in Gold duology.
Bow down witches . . .
Enemy witches Iraya and Jazmyne have each achieved their darkest desires. For the former, the doyenne who killed her family is dead. For the latter, the crown has been won. For both, their treacherous alliance is over – until a hidden evil rises from their last adversary’s ashes, forcing them to join forces once more to defend Aiyca and their respective orders.
Laying claim to the island of Iraya’s birth right and the bloody crown Jazmyne wears, this mysterious assailant is rearing monsters in the name of war. A war neither Iraya or Jazmyne are prepared to fight. New alliances must be forged to protect Aiyca and once again the two witches must work together to defeat an enemy who threatens both their worlds. Who will be the one sitting on top of the throne in the end – Iraya, Jazmyne, or another?
Two witches. One motive. And everything to fight for.”
“The second installment in the house of shadows duology, a gripping fantasy inspired by greek myth.
Return to the Underworld…
Deina has finally found what matters most to her in all the world. And lost it. To save the one she loves, she’s bound herself to the Underworld and an endless future of darkness.
But not even her sacrifice is enough to secure Theron or her friends’ safety in the mortal realm. Aristaeus has seized power in Thebes and his tyrannical reign is a constant, looming threat to their lives.
So when Deina is offered the chance to destroy him and the gods altogether, she sets out on a new quest. But to succeed, she must turn away from everything she holds true.
In a game with the gods, the rewards are infinite . . . but the punishments are eternal.”
Author: Katharine & Elizabeth Corr
Age Range: From 13 years
“The second installment in the house of shadows duology, a gripping fantasy inspired by greek myth.
Return to the Underworld…
Deina has finally found what matters most to her in all the world. And lost it. To save the one she loves, she’s bound herself to the Underworld and an endless future of darkness.
But not even her sacrifice is enough to secure Theron or her friends’ safety in the mortal realm. Aristaeus has seized power in Thebes and his tyrannical reign is a constant, looming threat to their lives.
So when Deina is offered the chance to destroy him and the gods altogether, she sets out on a new quest. But to succeed, she must turn away from everything she holds true.
In a game with the gods, the rewards are infinite . . . but the punishments are eternal.”
“With compelling characters, broken friendships and complicated romances, BAD THINGS HAPPEN HERE is a gripping murder mystery full of dark truths, lethal betrayals, and poisonous secrets.
Paradise can be deadly …
Luca Laine Thomas lives in Parris, a beautiful island plagued by the unsolved deaths of young women – most significantly, Luca’s best friend. All Luca wants is to heal from the traumatic loss and leave her feelings of guilt and helplessness behind.
Then Luca comes home to find police cars in her driveway. Her sister, Whitney, is dead.
Luca and Naomi, the new girl next door, decide to take the investigation into their own hands, and along the way their connection deepens. Soon, their casual touches and innocent flirtations become something way more real. But finding out what happened on the night of Whitney’s disappearance reveals lie upon lie.
Nothing is as it seems. Will Luca’s search finally reveal the truth about her sister’s murder?
Perfect for fans of WE WERE LIARS, ONE OF US IS LYING, ACE OF SPADES, and ASKING FOR IT.”
Author: Rebecca Barrow
Age Range: From 13 years
“With compelling characters, broken friendships and complicated romances, BAD THINGS HAPPEN HERE is a gripping murder mystery full of dark truths, lethal betrayals, and poisonous secrets.
Paradise can be deadly …
Luca Laine Thomas lives in Parris, a beautiful island plagued by the unsolved deaths of young women – most significantly, Luca’s best friend. All Luca wants is to heal from the traumatic loss and leave her feelings of guilt and helplessness behind.
Then Luca comes home to find police cars in her driveway. Her sister, Whitney, is dead.
Luca and Naomi, the new girl next door, decide to take the investigation into their own hands, and along the way their connection deepens. Soon, their casual touches and innocent flirtations become something way more real. But finding out what happened on the night of Whitney’s disappearance reveals lie upon lie.
Nothing is as it seems. Will Luca’s search finally reveal the truth about her sister’s murder?
Perfect for fans of WE WERE LIARS, ONE OF US IS LYING, ACE OF SPADES, and ASKING FOR IT.”
“Shortlisted for The An Post Irish Book Awards 2023
‘When it comes to writing YA fiction as beautiful, eerie and utterly chilling as WISE CREATURES, Deirdre Sullivan is in a league of her own’ – Louise O’Neill, author of ONLY EVER YOURS
I always thought that hauntings began with houses. They don’t, of course.
It’s people, isn’t it? They begin with people.
If anyone knows what it is to be haunted, it’s Daisy. The ghosts of her troubled past are ever present. Daisy has always done her best to shut the ghosts away. To shut away the wise creatures who used to whisper to her from the walls of the house. To live a normal life.
But now, something is humming in the house. Something dark, and unknown. And it’s targeting Nina, her beloved sister. Daisy knows that something is up. And that the wise creatures, locked away for so long, are back. And this time, who knows what they want?”
Author: Deirdre Sullivan
Age Range: From 14 to 18 years
“Shortlisted for The An Post Irish Book Awards 2023
‘When it comes to writing YA fiction as beautiful, eerie and utterly chilling as WISE CREATURES, Deirdre Sullivan is in a league of her own’ – Louise O’Neill, author of ONLY EVER YOURS
I always thought that hauntings began with houses. They don’t, of course.
It’s people, isn’t it? They begin with people.
If anyone knows what it is to be haunted, it’s Daisy. The ghosts of her troubled past are ever present. Daisy has always done her best to shut the ghosts away. To shut away the wise creatures who used to whisper to her from the walls of the house. To live a normal life.
But now, something is humming in the house. Something dark, and unknown. And it’s targeting Nina, her beloved sister. Daisy knows that something is up. And that the wise creatures, locked away for so long, are back. And this time, who knows what they want?”
“I tried to keep you safe, but I see now that I can’t. They won’t stop until they have you…’
When Ivy’s search for her mother draws her to a remote Welsh isle, she uncovers a dark secret about her past.
An ancient and corrupt power is stalking Ivy, and her only chance of survival is to look deep within herself. For not every story in legend is true, and some evils are not what they seem …
An unputdownable novel steeped in Welsh mythology and Arthurian legend, from the bestselling author of THE TWISTED TREE and THE CROOKED MASK”
Author: Rachel Burge
Age Range: From 14 to 18 years
“I tried to keep you safe, but I see now that I can’t. They won’t stop until they have you…’
When Ivy’s search for her mother draws her to a remote Welsh isle, she uncovers a dark secret about her past.
An ancient and corrupt power is stalking Ivy, and her only chance of survival is to look deep within herself. For not every story in legend is true, and some evils are not what they seem …
An unputdownable novel steeped in Welsh mythology and Arthurian legend, from the bestselling author of THE TWISTED TREE and THE CROOKED MASK”
“It’s been a month since Trisha’s dad was killed, wandering out drunk in front of the car Trisha is driving, and her mother grabs the wheel. To try to avoid him? To try NOT to avoid him? Trisha doesn’t know exactly what happened that night, but she’s afraid it’s going to happen again …
Love and violence. In some families they’re bound up together, dysfunctional and poisonous, passed from generation to generation like eye colour or a quirk of smile. Eighteen-year-old Trisha’s trying to break the chain, channelling her violent impulses into Muay Thai kickboxing, an unlikely sport for a slightly built girl of Indian descent. She’s the Canadian daughter of Trinidadian parents, whose own ancestors came over as indentured servants from India, replacing the Africans in the sugar fields after slavery was abolished. All that love and violence, identities warped and lost, passed on to her family, played out in every punch her father lands on her mother. Until the night he wanders out drunk in front of Trisha’s car, and everything changes for ever.”
Author: Sheena Kamal
Age Range: From 14 to 18 years
“It’s been a month since Trisha’s dad was killed, wandering out drunk in front of the car Trisha is driving, and her mother grabs the wheel. To try to avoid him? To try NOT to avoid him? Trisha doesn’t know exactly what happened that night, but she’s afraid it’s going to happen again …
Love and violence. In some families they’re bound up together, dysfunctional and poisonous, passed from generation to generation like eye colour or a quirk of smile. Eighteen-year-old Trisha’s trying to break the chain, channelling her violent impulses into Muay Thai kickboxing, an unlikely sport for a slightly built girl of Indian descent. She’s the Canadian daughter of Trinidadian parents, whose own ancestors came over as indentured servants from India, replacing the Africans in the sugar fields after slavery was abolished. All that love and violence, identities warped and lost, passed on to her family, played out in every punch her father lands on her mother. Until the night he wanders out drunk in front of Trisha’s car, and everything changes for ever.”
“Aster. Violet. Tansy. Mallow. Clementine.
Sold as children. Branded by cursed markings. Trapped in a life they never would have chosen.
When Aster’s sister Clementine accidentally murders a man, the girls risk a dangerous escape and harrowing journey to find freedom, justice, and revenge – in a country that wants them to have none of those things. Pursued by the land’s most vicious and powerful forces – both living and dead – their only hope lies in a bedtime story passed from one girl to another, a story that only the youngest or most desperate would ever believe.
It’s going to take more than luck for them all to survive.
Content warnings: sexual assault, addiction, violence, references to rape and suicide.”
Author: Charlotte Nicole Davis
Age Range: From 14 to 19 years
“Aster. Violet. Tansy. Mallow. Clementine.
Sold as children. Branded by cursed markings. Trapped in a life they never would have chosen.
When Aster’s sister Clementine accidentally murders a man, the girls risk a dangerous escape and harrowing journey to find freedom, justice, and revenge – in a country that wants them to have none of those things. Pursued by the land’s most vicious and powerful forces – both living and dead – their only hope lies in a bedtime story passed from one girl to another, a story that only the youngest or most desperate would ever believe.
It’s going to take more than luck for them all to survive.
Content warnings: sexual assault, addiction, violence, references to rape and suicide.”
Sixteen-year-old twins Madeline and Catlin move to a new life in Ballyfrann, a strange isolated Irish town, a place where the earth is littered with small corpses and unspoken truths. A place where, for generations, teenage girls have gone missing in the surrounding mountains. As distance grows between the twins – as Catlin falls in love, and Madeline begins to understand her own nascent witchcraft – Madeline discovers that Ballyfrann is a place full of predators. And when Catlin falls into the gravest danger of all, Madeline must ask herself who she really is, and who she wants to be – or rather, who she might have to become to save her sister.
Author: Deirdre Sullivan
Age Range: From 14 to 19 years
Sixteen-year-old twins Madeline and Catlin move to a new life in Ballyfrann, a strange isolated Irish town, a place where the earth is littered with small corpses and unspoken truths. A place where, for generations, teenage girls have gone missing in the surrounding mountains. As distance grows between the twins – as Catlin falls in love, and Madeline begins to understand her own nascent witchcraft – Madeline discovers that Ballyfrann is a place full of predators. And when Catlin falls into the gravest danger of all, Madeline must ask herself who she really is, and who she wants to be – or rather, who she might have to become to save her sister.
“A sweeping romantic novel from New York Times bestselling author David Arnold about the power of soulmates and love.
Evan Taft has plans. Take a gap year in Alaska, make sure his brother and single mother are taken care of, and continue therapy to process his father’s departure. But after his mum’s unexpected cancer diagnosis, and as Evan’s plans begin to fade, he hears something – a song no one else can hear, the voice of a mysterious singer …
Shosh Bell has dreams. A high-school theatre legend, she’s headed to performing arts college in LA, a star on the rise. But when a drunk driver takes her sister’s life, that star fades to black. All that remains is a void – and a soft voice singing in her ear …
Over it all, transcending time and space, a celestial bird brings strangers together: from an escaped murderer in 19th-century Paris, to a Norwegian cosmonaut in low-earth orbit, something is happening that began long ago, and will long outlast Evan and Shosh.
With lyrical prose and breathtaking storytelling, I LOVED YOU IN ANOTHER LIFE explores the history of love, and how some souls are meant for each other – yesterday, today, forever. Perfect for fans of Nina LaCour and Matt Haig.”
Author: David Arnold
Age Range: From 14 years
“A sweeping romantic novel from New York Times bestselling author David Arnold about the power of soulmates and love.
Evan Taft has plans. Take a gap year in Alaska, make sure his brother and single mother are taken care of, and continue therapy to process his father’s departure. But after his mum’s unexpected cancer diagnosis, and as Evan’s plans begin to fade, he hears something – a song no one else can hear, the voice of a mysterious singer …
Shosh Bell has dreams. A high-school theatre legend, she’s headed to performing arts college in LA, a star on the rise. But when a drunk driver takes her sister’s life, that star fades to black. All that remains is a void – and a soft voice singing in her ear …
Over it all, transcending time and space, a celestial bird brings strangers together: from an escaped murderer in 19th-century Paris, to a Norwegian cosmonaut in low-earth orbit, something is happening that began long ago, and will long outlast Evan and Shosh.
With lyrical prose and breathtaking storytelling, I LOVED YOU IN ANOTHER LIFE explores the history of love, and how some souls are meant for each other – yesterday, today, forever. Perfect for fans of Nina LaCour and Matt Haig.”
“The long-awaited new novel from multi bestselling Garth Nix, set in the Old Kingdom, now in paperback! For fans of Sarah J. Maas and Leigh Bardugo.
In a land where the dead will not stay dead, eighteen-year-old orphan Terciel is learning to wield a mighty and terrible power: necromancy.
For he is the Abhorsen-in-Waiting, the latest in a ancient line of necromancers tasked with protecting the Old Kingdom and preventing the Dead from crossing over to the realm of the living.
Across the Wall in Ancelstierre, where magic does not usually work, Elinor, nineteen, lives a secluded life. But when destiny intervenes, she finds herself on a path to love, danger, and an adventure into the dominion of the dead…
She does not know that she is deeply connected to the Old Kingdom until destiny places her on a path of magic, romance and a fight against the Dead who will not stay dead.”
Author: Garth Nix
Age Range: From 14 years
“The long-awaited new novel from multi bestselling Garth Nix, set in the Old Kingdom, now in paperback! For fans of Sarah J. Maas and Leigh Bardugo.
In a land where the dead will not stay dead, eighteen-year-old orphan Terciel is learning to wield a mighty and terrible power: necromancy.
For he is the Abhorsen-in-Waiting, the latest in a ancient line of necromancers tasked with protecting the Old Kingdom and preventing the Dead from crossing over to the realm of the living.
Across the Wall in Ancelstierre, where magic does not usually work, Elinor, nineteen, lives a secluded life. But when destiny intervenes, she finds herself on a path to love, danger, and an adventure into the dominion of the dead…
She does not know that she is deeply connected to the Old Kingdom until destiny places her on a path of magic, romance and a fight against the Dead who will not stay dead.”
“The thrilling sequel to the theft of sunlight, the epic fantasy adventure.
“”A fairytale that goes beyond the happily-ever-after”” Kirkus starred review
“”Full of action, magic and intrigue”” Foreword starred review
I’ve been cursed, betrayed, and sold into slavery – but the truth I carry can’t be allowed to die.
Only Rae knows the extent of the corruption at the heart of the kingdom of Menaiya, from the noble lord who betrayed her, to the Circle of Mages whose wards protect the slavers from discovery. Injured and imprisoned on a slave ship, Rae’s options are quickly running out. When a desperate escape attempt goes terribly wrong, she finds herself indebted to a terrifying Fae sorceress.
Now Rae will not rest until she has rescued her fellow prisoners and freed her land from the darkness that has taken hold. To succeed, she’ll need every ally she can find-including Bren, the thief who may have stolen her heart. But Bren is hiding his own bloody secrets, and the curses that encircle Rae have sunk their claws into her mind. With her debts coming due and time running short, all the truths in the world may not be enough to save her kingdom, or herself.”
Author: Intisar Khanani
Age Range: From 14 years
“The thrilling sequel to the theft of sunlight, the epic fantasy adventure.
“”A fairytale that goes beyond the happily-ever-after”” Kirkus starred review
“”Full of action, magic and intrigue”” Foreword starred review
I’ve been cursed, betrayed, and sold into slavery – but the truth I carry can’t be allowed to die.
Only Rae knows the extent of the corruption at the heart of the kingdom of Menaiya, from the noble lord who betrayed her, to the Circle of Mages whose wards protect the slavers from discovery. Injured and imprisoned on a slave ship, Rae’s options are quickly running out. When a desperate escape attempt goes terribly wrong, she finds herself indebted to a terrifying Fae sorceress.
Now Rae will not rest until she has rescued her fellow prisoners and freed her land from the darkness that has taken hold. To succeed, she’ll need every ally she can find-including Bren, the thief who may have stolen her heart. But Bren is hiding his own bloody secrets, and the curses that encircle Rae have sunk their claws into her mind. With her debts coming due and time running short, all the truths in the world may not be enough to save her kingdom, or herself.”
“Azadeh is a budding violinist on a music scholarship at an expensive private school, dealing with all the usual trials of being sixteen: trying her best to fit in, keep up and have fun. Then as her mum’s mental health spirals out of control, Azadeh’s world starts to unravel. Her friendships fall away, and as much as she and her dad try to keep a lid on everything, their problems insist on taking over. Feeling alone, it’s her violin that finally helps Azadeh to find her way back to her friends, herself and even her mum.
A beautifully packaged, highly important and irresistible novel about mental health struggles and the solace we find in music and rhythm, friendship, family and honesty. Illustrated throughout”
Author: Jion Sheibani
Age Range: From 14 years
“Azadeh is a budding violinist on a music scholarship at an expensive private school, dealing with all the usual trials of being sixteen: trying her best to fit in, keep up and have fun. Then as her mum’s mental health spirals out of control, Azadeh’s world starts to unravel. Her friendships fall away, and as much as she and her dad try to keep a lid on everything, their problems insist on taking over. Feeling alone, it’s her violin that finally helps Azadeh to find her way back to her friends, herself and even her mum.
A beautifully packaged, highly important and irresistible novel about mental health struggles and the solace we find in music and rhythm, friendship, family and honesty. Illustrated throughout”
“From Joya Goffney, author of hit YA romcom Excuse Me While I Ugly Cry, comes a stirring coming-of-age, best friends-to-lovers romance…
Nikki’s always had a difficult relationship with her mum. So when she finds herself homeless at the start of spring break, she decides to rage-quit Texas and give California a shot, to pursue her dream music career.
Until her best friend and long-time crush, Malachai, discovers her plan and convinces her to spend spring break with him, so he can show her all the reasons she should stay in Texas.
But when Nikki’s little sister goes missing their plans are interrupted, and Nikki is forced to face her feelings about both her mum and Mal. Can Nikki find the love she’s always been missing? And will it be enough to convince her to stay in Texas?”
Author: Joya Goffney
Age Range: From 14 years
“From Joya Goffney, author of hit YA romcom Excuse Me While I Ugly Cry, comes a stirring coming-of-age, best friends-to-lovers romance…
Nikki’s always had a difficult relationship with her mum. So when she finds herself homeless at the start of spring break, she decides to rage-quit Texas and give California a shot, to pursue her dream music career.
Until her best friend and long-time crush, Malachai, discovers her plan and convinces her to spend spring break with him, so he can show her all the reasons she should stay in Texas.
But when Nikki’s little sister goes missing their plans are interrupted, and Nikki is forced to face her feelings about both her mum and Mal. Can Nikki find the love she’s always been missing? And will it be enough to convince her to stay in Texas?”
“Press both feet to the ground.
Place your hand on your heart.
You are brave and capable.
It will always be your time.
An empowering and uplifting collection of poems from groundbreaking and award-winning poet Koleka Putuma, about figuring out who you are and embracing it.
With words to affirm, this is the ideal companion to hold your hand while you navigate all the big questions, discoveries and transitions of young adulthood.
The perfect gift for fans of Rupi Kaur, Nikita Gill and Elizabeth Acevedo.”
Author: Koleka Putuma
Age Range: From 14 years
“Press both feet to the ground.
Place your hand on your heart.
You are brave and capable.
It will always be your time.
An empowering and uplifting collection of poems from groundbreaking and award-winning poet Koleka Putuma, about figuring out who you are and embracing it.
With words to affirm, this is the ideal companion to hold your hand while you navigate all the big questions, discoveries and transitions of young adulthood.
The perfect gift for fans of Rupi Kaur, Nikita Gill and Elizabeth Acevedo.”
“A moving portrayal of a teenager coming to terms with a secret about her mother that her father decided to keep from her . . . was he right to do so? Saffron must work that out . . .
Seventeen year old Saffron discovers a secret in the attic – a secret that changes both her past and her future…
Having believed ten years ago that her mother had become ill and subsequently died, Saffron learns that her mother is in fact alive and well. Angry at the years of deceit from her father and step mother, she goes in search of the truth about her mother – and leaves home.
Homeless and alone, Saffron has to deal with the mental turmoil and anger at her father as she processes the lies she has been told. And then Saffron comes face to face with the dangers of being a homeless teenage girl . . .”
Author: Phyllida Shrimpton
Age Range: From 14 years
“A moving portrayal of a teenager coming to terms with a secret about her mother that her father decided to keep from her . . . was he right to do so? Saffron must work that out . . .
Seventeen year old Saffron discovers a secret in the attic – a secret that changes both her past and her future…
Having believed ten years ago that her mother had become ill and subsequently died, Saffron learns that her mother is in fact alive and well. Angry at the years of deceit from her father and step mother, she goes in search of the truth about her mother – and leaves home.
Homeless and alone, Saffron has to deal with the mental turmoil and anger at her father as she processes the lies she has been told. And then Saffron comes face to face with the dangers of being a homeless teenage girl . . .”
“Harlow and her mum, Cora, have been on the run her entire life. She has no idea why or what they’re running from, but in every place they stop, they create new names and stories, and they never stay for long.
Then, one night, while attempting to skip town, Cora is killed, leaving Harlow alone and with a million questions.
But her mum’s secrets live on. And when a key to a hidden safety deposit box leads Harlow to Crescent Ridge – Cora’s hometown – she discovers a trail of buried secrets and lies.
Harlow was hoping to find something that would help her understand her mum better. But what she finds instead will change everything she knows about her mum – and herself – forever.
From the author of BAD THINGS HAPPEN HERE comes another gripping thriller, perfect for fans of WE WERE LIARS, ONE OF US IS LYING and GIRL IN PIECES.”
Author: Rebecca Barrow
Age Range: From 14 years
“Harlow and her mum, Cora, have been on the run her entire life. She has no idea why or what they’re running from, but in every place they stop, they create new names and stories, and they never stay for long.
Then, one night, while attempting to skip town, Cora is killed, leaving Harlow alone and with a million questions.
But her mum’s secrets live on. And when a key to a hidden safety deposit box leads Harlow to Crescent Ridge – Cora’s hometown – she discovers a trail of buried secrets and lies.
Harlow was hoping to find something that would help her understand her mum better. But what she finds instead will change everything she knows about her mum – and herself – forever.
From the author of BAD THINGS HAPPEN HERE comes another gripping thriller, perfect for fans of WE WERE LIARS, ONE OF US IS LYING and GIRL IN PIECES.”
“The third utterly compelling fantasy adventure in the ARGOSI trilogy, exploring the origins of the SPELLSLINGER series to enrapture devotees and newcomers alike.
While liberating a notorious thief from prison, Ferius Parfax encounters an inmate named Chedran, one of the last living members of her people, the Mahdek. Chedran is leading a group of young Mahdek who are determined to make a future for their people and Ferius agrees to help them find a place where they can live free from persecution.
Meanwhile, having repaid her debt to the thief, Ferius finds her feelings towards Arissa becoming more complicated as she decides what debt she owes the society into which she was born.”
Author: Sebastien de Castell
Age Range: From 15 years
“The third utterly compelling fantasy adventure in the ARGOSI trilogy, exploring the origins of the SPELLSLINGER series to enrapture devotees and newcomers alike.
While liberating a notorious thief from prison, Ferius Parfax encounters an inmate named Chedran, one of the last living members of her people, the Mahdek. Chedran is leading a group of young Mahdek who are determined to make a future for their people and Ferius agrees to help them find a place where they can live free from persecution.
Meanwhile, having repaid her debt to the thief, Ferius finds her feelings towards Arissa becoming more complicated as she decides what debt she owes the society into which she was born.”