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Cover of THE FORBIDDEN GAME (THE HUNTER, THE CHASE, THE KILL)

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THE FORBIDDEN GAME (THE HUNTER, THE CHASE, THE KILL)

L. J. Smith

In this dark game, the humans prove to be the playthings.

Ages 14+Source checked

Why this age? The book includes sustained supernatural horror, frightening threats, peril, violence, death-related stakes, grief, and intense romantic themes. The prose and plot are aimed at mature teens. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age14+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes4/5
  • Romance4/5
  • Death of a character3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Good role models3/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character3/5
Why this rating?

Characters are put in life-threatening situations where death is a recurring, high-stakes threat.

Graphic injury2/5
Why this rating?

Occasional descriptions of injuries or supernatural manifestations, but not gratuitous or excessive.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Includes some mild profanity and intense confrontational dialogue typical of YA horror.

Religious themes1/5
Why this rating?

Not a significant element in this specific story.

Romance4/5
Why this rating?

Teen romance is a major part of the story, including Jenny's relationship and the antagonist's obsessive romantic interest.

Frightening scenes4/5
Why this rating?

Supernatural horror, threatening creatures or forces, entrapment, pursuit, and sustained fear are central to the trilogy.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Some mild flirtation and intense emotional themes, but no explicit sexual activity or nudity.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

No significant depiction of drug or alcohol use.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Contains supernatural threats, physical struggles, and dangerous games that place characters in harm's way.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Characters repeatedly confront frightening supernatural forces and danger, often accepting personal risk to help others.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Features imaginative world-building and inventive supernatural challenges.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

Typical of late 90s YA fiction, limited representation of diverse backgrounds.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Emphasis on the group supporting one another against a common threat.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Explores themes of resilience, the importance of friendship, and overcoming manipulative influences.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Characters demonstrate courage and loyalty under extreme pressure.

Family discussion

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Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in THE FORBIDDEN GAME (THE HUNTER, THE CHASE, THE KILL) would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in THE FORBIDDEN GAME (THE HUNTER, THE CHASE, THE KILL), and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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