A Dark and Hollow Star

A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is searching for a sense of belonging or grappling with an identity that feels at odds with their environment. It is an ideal pick for readers who are looking for high-stakes adventure where diverse, queer identities are the norm rather than the exception. Set in a magical version of modern-day Toronto, the story follows four teenagers from different walks of life, including a half-fae outcast and an exiled Fury, as they investigate a series of ritualistic murders. The narrative explores themes of systemic injustice, the burden of family expectations, and the power found in chosen families. While the plot is a fast-paced mystery, the heart of the book lies in the characters' emotional growth and their refusal to let their pasts define them. Parents should note that this is a sophisticated Young Adult novel for ages 14 and up, containing gritty urban fantasy violence and complex moral dilemmas. It serves as a powerful mirror for queer youth, offering them a world where they are the heroes of a grand, epic destiny.