Recently Added to the YA Bookshelf

Taking a look at some of the most recent additions gracing the shelves of our YA department.

The Kingdom of Back by Marie Lu

Born with a gift for music, Nannerl Mozart has just one wish, to be remembered forever. But even as she delights audiences with her masterful playing, she has little hope she'll ever become the acclaimed composer she longs to be. Until one day a mysterious stranger from a magical land appears with an irresistible offer. He has the power to make her wish come true, but his help may cost her everything.

"A beautifully composed historical fantasy that will enthrall readers, especially those with music in their hearts." -- School Library Journal

Chain of Gold by Cassandra Clare

Cordelia Carstairs, a Shadowhunter trained to battle demons, travels with her brother to London where they reconnect with childhood friends, but soon must face devastating demon attacks in the quarantined city.

"Clare delivers a richly imagined fantasy rife with action, intrigue, and smoldering romance." -- Publishers Weekly

The Shadows Between Us by Tricia Levenseller

Alessandra is tired of being overlooked, but she has a plan to gain power. 1) Woo the Shadow King. 2) Marry him. 3) Kill him and take his kingdom for herself.

"A viciously satisfying romance featuring two well-matched opponents." -- Booklist

Bent Heavens by Daniel Kraus

Two years after the disappearance of her father, seventeen-year-old Liv and her friend capture an alien in the Iowa countryside. Instead of turning him over to the authorities, however, they choose a different path.

"Beautiful prose does little to mask the anger of this powerful narrative. Readers will have a hard time putting this down." -- School Library Journal, Starred Review

The Queen's Assassin by Melissa de la Cruz

The Queen's Assassin is forced to take on a mysterious apprentice on his most dangerous mission yet, pulling them both into a vicious web of secrets and lies.

"The action-packed narrative captures readers' attention from the start, expertly weaving plot twists, betrayal, magical elements, and traces of humor throughout." -- School Library Journal

Ember Queen by Laura Sebastian

With Astrea under the rule of a new leader, Theo returns to fight for her land and her people. But her enemies are more powerful than ever before and, if she is to win once and for all, she must risk  everything and everyone if she is to reclaim her throne.

"For fantasy fans, especially those who enjoy strong female protagonists, this book will be an easy sell. Theo is tough, honorable, and relatable in her emotions [and] Sebastian has built a beautiful and complex world." -- VOYA

All the Stars and Teeth by Adalyn Grace

As princess of the island kingdom Visidia, Amora Montara has spent her entire life training to be High Animancer, the master of souls. The rest of the realm can choose their magic, but for Amora, it's never been a choice. To secure her place as heir to the throne, she must prove her mastery of the monarchy's dangerous soul magic.

"This fast-paced duology opener excels in its careful consideration of the responsibilities that come with power." -- Publishers Weekly

What Kind of Girl by Alyssa Sheinmel

When popular Mike Parker's girlfriend informs North Bay Academy's principal that he has been hitting her, students react differently, revealing their own insecurities and problems.

"This book is powerful and would definitely make a great addition to any high school library or classroom. It would also be perfect for high school counselors to use as a book study for both students and staff in support of social and emotional learning standards." -- School Library Connection