YA Spotlight (7/31/23)

Girl-power fantasy, romance in the dangerous wilderness, and horror-comedy at the theater are all part of the newest YA releases!

GUARDIANS OF DAWN: ZHARA BY S. JAE-JONES

“The pressures [the characters] feel to protect their family at all costs and desire to carve out happiness for themselves, all while dodging dangers both human and magical, will surely yank on heartstrings . . . this heartwarming, heartbreaking start to a series will leave readers aching for more.”–School Library Journal, starred review

OMEN OF ICE BY JUS ACCARDO

“Shifting the setting beyond the Winter Lands invigorates the pacing and plot development. An entertaining side quest . . . enriches the narrative and serves to introduce several well-developed supporting characters . . . The briskly paced ending brings initial resolution and forecasts conflict for additional installments.”–Kirkus Reviews

DAMNED IF YOU DO BY ALEX BROWN

“Filipino cultural and mythological elements add refreshing notes to rapid-fire Buffy the Vampire Slayer-style action, while heartening found family dynamics counterbalance dark depictions of abuse in this intense adventure.”–Publishers Weekly

GUARDIANS OF DAWN: ZHARA by S. Jae-Jones; 9781250191427; 8/1/23
OMEN OF ICE by Jus Accardo; 9781649374028; 8/1/23
DAMNED IF YOU DO by Alex Brown; 9781645679998; 8/1/23