The Legend of Lady Ilena

Reach for this book when your teenager is feeling caught between different worlds, whether that involves navigating conflicting family expectations or questioning their own spiritual or cultural heritage. It is a powerful choice for the young reader who feels like an outsider and is searching for the courage to define themselves on their own terms. Following fifteen-year-old Ilena on a quest across sixth-century Britain, the story explores the tension between tradition and change as she discovers she is the daughter of a legendary king. The narrative deals with heavy themes of loneliness and identity in a way that feels grounded and urgent. It is a sophisticated historical adventure that rewards readers looking for a female protagonist who values independence and resilience over social conformity. Parents will appreciate how it handles the intersection of Druidic and Christian beliefs with nuance and respect.