Torment

A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is expressing frustration with being kept in the dark or is struggling to define their own identity apart from a romantic partner. It is an ideal choice for teens who feel like they are constantly being protected from the truth rather than empowered by it. The story follows Lucinda Price as she is hidden away at a new school for her own safety, only to find that the secrets being kept from her are more dangerous than the external threats she faces. While the book features paranormal elements like reincarnation and fallen angels, its heart lies in the emotional journey of a young woman claiming her agency. As Luce investigates her past lives, she begins to question the narrative she has been given by Daniel, her immortal boyfriend. Parents might choose this for a teen who enjoys high-stakes drama and mythology but who is also ready to explore themes of healthy skepticism and the importance of self-discovery within a relationship. It is appropriate for ages 13 and up due to its romantic intensity and supernatural peril.