Isles of the Gods, The

Reach for this book when your teen is grappling with the weight of family legacy or the pressure to perform in roles they never asked for. It is an ideal pick for the young adult who feels like an outsider and is looking for a story about finding strength in unexpected alliances. The story follows Selly, a skilled sailor, and Prince Leander as they navigate a perilous sea journey involving ancient gods and high-stakes magic. While it is a thrilling high-fantasy adventure, the heart of the book explores themes of self-reliance, the burden of expectations, and the courage it takes to trust others when you have always had to survive on your own. It is perfectly suited for readers aged 12 and up who enjoy complex world-building and character-driven quests.