Clockwork Prince

A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is struggling with the burden of a secret or feels they must push people away to protect them. It is a sophisticated historical fantasy that follows Tessa Gray as she navigates a Victorian London filled with supernatural clockwork creatures and Shadowhunters. While the plot involves a race against a mysterious villain, the heart of the story lies in the complex emotional triangle between Tessa, the guarded and self-destructive Will, and the kind-hearted Jem. This book is ideal for the 14 to 18 age range, offering a mature exploration of sacrifice, the weight of family legacies, and the courage required to be vulnerable. It provides a safe space for teens to explore the nuances of romantic love and the deep, platonic bonds of friendship that feel like family.