Warrior

Reach for this book when your teenager is beginning to grapple with the realization that the world is rarely black and white and that leadership often requires making difficult, imperfect choices. It is an excellent selection for mature readers who are ready to examine the complex intersection of parental protection, political power, and the ethical weight of securing a legacy. The story follows Marla Wolfblade as she navigates a dangerous court to ensure her son's safety and future throne, all while a hidden magical conspiracy threatens to undo her work. It deals with heavy themes of trust, betrayal, and the loss of innocence in a sophisticated way. Because of the political intrigue and mature stakes, it is best suited for older teens (14 and up) who enjoy high fantasy with psychological depth and strong female protagonists. It serves as a powerful conversation starter about the lengths one should go to protect family and the reality of navigating systems of power.