The 9 Most Captivating Dark Fantasy Books for Young Adults
Book RaiderIn the literary feast, dark fantasy is that bitter-sweet dessert, which you're uncertain about trying at the first bite, yet can't get enough of once its intense flavors burst in your mouth. Like a runaway carriage pulled by nightmarish creatures, it drags us into territories both profoundly ominous and tantalizing, leaving our minds haunted and tickled in equal measure. If you're a young adult attracted to the tantalizing gloom of these stories with their dash of terror and symphony of mystery, there's a spread of delightful dread waiting for you.
Every bookworm has an appetite for a certain genre, like a craving that needs to be satisfied initially and then inevitably becomes a staple diet. If for you, dark fantasy is that guilty pleasure that you feast upon under the veil of night, reading as the words cast long monstrous shadows on the reality enveloping you, then join the club- we meet every thirteenth Friday of the month. The Most Captivating Dark Fantasy Books for Young Adults are the selected menu, full of books that are an eerie caterer's dream. They offer you a perfectly unbalanced mix of trepidation and excitement that continue to echo in your thoughts, leaving you begging for more.
Red Queen
by Victoria Aveyard
Why Red Queen is on this list: The Red Queen offers a widely unique changing cloak of dark fantasy that's perfect for a young adult's daring imagination. It's the kind of book that makes you see shadows on your bedroom wall differently, in a good way, of course.
In a world divided by blood - red and silver - Mare, a seventeen-year-old Red girl from the poverty-stricken slums, some way, somehow, finds herself working in the Silver Palace. Here, surrounded by the people she hates the most, she discovers an unknown, scary but exciting power, changing her life forever. What kind of power, you ask? Well, my friend, that's for you to dive in and discover.
What readers like: Readers love this book for its breathtakingly detailed, immersive world, clear-cut politics, and flushed characters. It delves into the classic trope of 'wrong girl in the wrong place but at the right time', packed with unexpected twists and turns that leaves readers at the edge of their seats. Plus, the various moral dilemmas popping up here and there makes you wonder if you too, given the same shoes, would make the same choices.
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The Secret Commonwealth: The Book of Dust Volume Two
by Philip Pullman
Why The Secret Commonwealth: The Book of Dust Volume Two is on this list: This book dives deep into a world enthralling enough to make you forget your daily chores. Don't say we didn't warn you about that burnt dinner.
The gritty tale journeys alongside Lyra Silvertongue, the fierce young heroine from 'His Dark Materials', and her daemon Pantalaimon in a parallel universe with a dark underbelly. The plot thickens as they uncover a city haunted by daemons and meet a dangerous and secretive community. The path is littered with mystery, magic, and unimaginable danger. It's not your everyday stroll in the park, folks.
What readers like: Readers are all over this book for its blend of dark themes with riveting fantasy elements. It's got enough mystery to keep you on your toes and a good amount of intrigue that keeps readers turning page after page. Plus, being a Pullman classic, it has the rich, multi-layered narratives and complex characters that you can't help falling in love with. Just don't ask us to choose our favorite character - it's like asking a mom to pick her favorite child.
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Darkdawn: Book Three of the Nevernight Chronicle
by Jay Kristoff
Why Darkdawn: Book Three of the Nevernight Chronicle is on this list: This is a dark fantasy masterpiece that mingles wit, heart-wrenching emotion, and cliff-hanger moments equally. Literally, it will plunge young adults into the depth of the dark fantasy world.
Darkdawn concludes the epic tale of Mia Corvere, a young assassin out to avenge her family. In this final book of the trilogy, Mia is on a dangerous path full of enemies, bloodshed, and unexpected twists. Can she finally take down the Republic and get her revenge? Or will she be consumed by the darkness she's been fighting so hard against? Find out in this thrilling finale that's been making waves in the YA dark fantasy world.
What readers like: Readers rave about how they've been sucked into this engrossing world, and they feel every strong emotion Mia portrays. The characters are well-developed, the plot is full of suspense, and the careful world-building will make you wish you could visit this dark, yet fascinating place. Plus, the slightly sarcastic and smart-alecky humor is a bonus to lighten the mood in this heart-pounding dark tale.
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Ninth House
by Leigh Bardugo
Why Ninth House is on this list: If you've been looking for a book that seamlessly blends dark fantasy with a hint of reality, 'Ninth House' is one that will definitely get you excited. It's got all the elements that make dark fantasy a thrill to read – secret societies, uncanny events, and perfectly-placed turns of the supernatural.
This book revolves around Galaxy 'Alex' Stern, a young woman who is the lone survivor of a horrifying, unsolved crime. She gets a second chance to make something of her life when she is offered a place at the prestigious Yale University. However, this golden opportunity comes with a catch - she is tasked with monitoring Yale’s secret societies, which are more sinister and extraordinary than anyone could have imagined. Life at Yale becomes increasingly complicated for Alex when the bodies start turning up...
What readers like: Readers can't seem to get enough of this book’s unique mix of dark academia and fantasy. The well-drawn characters, unexpected turns, and Leigh Bardugo’s immersive writing style make it a must-read. Plus, who doesn't love a good, bone-chilling mystery? So, if you're into a plot that will keep you intrigued and a bit anxious till the very end, give this book a chance.
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The Cruel Prince
by Holly Black
Why The Cruel Prince is on this list: The Cruel Prince, rooted deep in dark fantasy, is not your typical good-versus-evil type of gig. This is more of a ‘everyone-versus-everyone’, especially in the glowering and dangerous world of the fey. This tale makes the shadows dance and is perfect for young adults thirsty for some murky adventures.
Jude was just seven years old when she witnessed her parents' brutal murder and was whisked away to the threatening world of the High Court of Faerie along with her two sisters. Now at seventeen, she yearns to fit in, despite being mortal in a court filled with faeries. But then there's Prince Cardan, the youngest and wickedest son of the High King, who despises mortals. As Jude gets tangled in the politics of Faerie, she realizes that to save everyone she loves, she must defy the prince himself.
What readers like: Readers rave about the fast-paced plot that keeps your heart pounding, the gritty and grim faerie world, and characters like Jude, who's tougher than week-old toast, and yet battling with mortal vulnerabilities. And let's not forget the cruel prince himself, Cardan, who hides behind his wickedness. If you’re eager for unpredictable twists and mind games in a strange world, then this one’s for you.
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An Enchantment of Ravens
by Margaret Rogerson
Why An Enchantment of Ravens is on this list: With a pitch-dark fantasy world and a riveting tale, 'An Enchantment of Ravens' nails the 'captivating dark fantasy' criteria with an almost eerie accuracy.
Let's take a dive into a world where any form of human Craft is highly sought by the fair folk. Intriguing, eh? Enter Isobel, a prodigious portrait artist who paints these immortal fair ones. But things get real gloomy when she makes a fatal mistake. Turns out painting mortal sorrow in a fairy prince's eyes is a big no-no. The Prince, Rook, whisks her away into the autumn courts to pay for her blunder, and that's when the real adventure begins.
What readers like: Let's see here, some readers have expressed their delight in the intriguing blend of fantasy and romance. They appreciate the unique fairy lore and gobble up Rogerson's enchanting writing style like it's the last slice of pizza. And let's not forget the joy that arises from witnessing Isobel's courage and defiance, again and again. And Rook, oh boy, talk about a charmingly (un)predictable dark fairy-prince.
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The Hazel Wood
by Melissa Albert
Why The Hazel Wood is on this list: The Hazel Wood takes the darker side of fairy tales and gives a modern twist, creating a captivating and slightly terrifying dark fantasy experience that young adults will dearly enjoy.
Alice, the daughter of a reclusive fairy-tale writer, has lived her life on the run. But when her mother is stolen away by a figure who claims to come from the Hinterland, the supernatural world where her grandmother's stories are set, Alice's quest to retrieve her takes her to the Hazel Wood, a mysterious and possibly dangerous place.
What readers like: Readers love Alice’s fierce personality, the spine-tingling suspense, and the twisted fairy-tale elements. The narrative will keep you flipping pages until the wee hours, navigating its unexpected twists and turns. It’s also a solid choice for anyone who’s into dark worlds with a generous helping of mystery and creep factor.
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Everless
by Sara Holland
Why Everless is on this list: Everless widens the usual boundaries of dark fantasy, blending time-bending stories with of mystery and romance. It's gritty, dark, and just a tad scary—perfect for the reader who likes a thrill without the accompanying nightmares.
Welcome to the world of Sempera, where time is currency and the rich bleed the poor dry. Here, we meet Jules Ember, who has to return to the treacherous Everless estate to earn more time for her dying father. As she navigates the dark corridors of power and secrets, she unravels her connection to the estate and takes on time itself. Will she be able to save her father, and perhaps, just perhaps, the whole of Sempera?
What readers like: Admirers of Holland's work praise her knack for crafting a unique, tantalizing world that keeps you on your toes. They also dig the twists and turns that are a little bit 'whoa - didn't see that coming'. Beyond the mysteries and suspense, they can’t get enough of the slowly unfolding romance, which adds an interesting layer to this intense dark fantasy tale.
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Sky in the Deep
by Adrienne Young
Why Sky in the Deep is on this list: Venturing into the realms of dark fantasy, Sky in the Deep isn't just about high stakes battles - It's about the battle in the heart of a young warrior. It couples dark themes of war with a rich Nordic-inspired mythology, perfect for young adults fancying a thrilling, slightly chilling escapade into the unknown.
Sky in the Deep is the story of Eelyn, a young Viking warrior. After watching her brother die in battle years ago, Eelyn is shocked when she spots him fighting alongside her clan's mortal enemies. Consumed by betrayal and disbelief, Eelyn is taken captive in her enemy's village where she must survive the harsh winter while planning her escape. However, amidst enemy lines, she uncovers a threat to her world more sinister than she ever dreamed.
What readers like: Readers get their blood pumping with this book's epic battles, well-crafted characters and emotional depth. They appreciate the way Young doesn't shy away from portraying the harsh realities of life in a Viking clan but also highlights themes of understanding, forgiveness, and family. Those with a bent for reading about strong female protagonists will love Eelyn's courageous journey and evolution.
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