Binge-Worthy Fantasy YA

YA (Young Adult) books are not just for teens. The library has many YA series with unforgettable characters and outstanding storytelling that appeal to both adults and teens. If you’re looking to discover a new series, try some of these crowd favorites from our YA section at the library. Some titles are also available on Libby.

For readers interested in heroines with hidden powers that will determine the fate of a realm try the Red Queen Series by Victoria Aveyard (Complete at 4 books). This action-fantasy series follows Mare, a red-blooded girl whose people serve the silver-blooded elites. When the king discovers that Mare has powers of her own, he betroths her to one of his sons, kickstarting a deadly series of betrayals.

Another heroine with hidden powers can be found in The Shadow and Bone Trilogy by Leigh Bardugo (Complete at 3 books). Follow Alina Starkov into a world of magic and illusion as she navigates the fine line between shadows and light, discovering an inner strength she never imagined possible.

The Legacy of Orisha Series by Tomi Adeyemi (2 so far) won several awards in 2018 as the best YA book of the year. This West-African-inspired fantasy follows Zelie, a girl with forbidden magic who must outwit an evil prince to save her people and restore magic.

Those who love fairy tales with a twist will enjoy the science-fiction Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer (Stand-alone books and novellas). The series is a unique twist on classic characters such as Cinderella (featured in the book Cinder as a cyborg and gifted mechanic) and Little Red Riding Hood (featured in the book Scarlet).

The trilogy Folk of the Air Series by Holly Black features heroine Jude, a mortal in a faery realm who is tormented by the cruel Prince Cardan. Jude describes her complicated relationship with her fae classmates: “…I want to be like them. They’re beautiful as blades forged in some divine fire. They will live forever. And Cardan is even more beautiful than the rest. I hate him more than all the others. I hate him so much that sometimes when I look at him, I can hardly breathe.”

For those looking for a longer series, try the worldwide phenomenon Throne of Glass Series by Sarah J. Maas (Complete at 8 books). Follow assassin Celaena through an unforgettable epic fantasy that Times Magazine called “One of the best fantasy series of the past decade.”

New books to look for in 2023 are The Stolen Heir by Holly Black, a spinoff of the Folk of the Air trilogy, and Children of Anguish and Anarchy, book 3 in the Legacy of Orisha series.

If you have questions or would like to receive more recommendations about Young Adult reads, come see us at CDPL. The Youth Services Department and the YA section are located on the first floor of the library, just past the circulation desk. You may also call us at (765)362-2242, ext. 115. Happy reads!