book

A TREACHERY OF SWANS

Name: A TREACHERY OF SWANS
Author: A.B. Poranek

A.B. Poranek

A gothic fantasy inspired by "Swan Lake." (Ages 14 and up)

Ages 14+Source checked

Why this age? The novel’s dark fairy-tale atmosphere, peril, betrayal, grief, and romantic intensity may be challenging for younger readers, even without strongly explicit sexual content. 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?

The narrative deals with loss and the threat of death as a consequence of the curse.

Graphic injury2/5

Why this rating?

Some descriptions of magical injury and dark, atmospheric trauma, but not gratuitous.

Strong language2/5

Why this rating?

Occasional mild language and name-calling may occur, without evidence of frequent strong profanity or slurs.

LGBTQIA characters1/5

Why this rating?

No reliable indication that LGBTQIA characters or relationships are a prominent focus; any representation appears limited or incidental.

Religious themes1/5

Why this rating?

Fantasy folklore and magical beliefs are present, but there is limited evidence of organized religion or sustained religious practice.

Romance4/5

Why this rating?

Romantic attraction and relationship tensions appear central to this YA fantasy, rather than being only a minor subplot.

Frightening scenes4/5

Why this rating?

Includes elements of folk horror, unsettling transformations, and looming supernatural threats.

Sexual content & nudity1/5

Why this rating?

Minimal to no sexual content beyond mild romantic attraction.

Alcohol or drugs1/5

Why this rating?

No significant drinking, smoking, vaping, or drug use is indicated.

Violence3/5

Why this rating?

Features fantasy combat, dangerous magical threats, and physical altercations consistent with the genre.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5

Why this rating?

The protagonist frequently demonstrates bravery in the face of overwhelming supernatural adversity.

Creativity & curiosity4/5

Why this rating?

Strong imaginative world-building and reinterpretation of folk motifs.

Diverse representation2/5

Why this rating?

Some variety in characters and perspectives may be present, but the available evidence does not establish broad, prominent representation.

Educational value1/5

Why this rating?

Incidental exposure to literary tropes and mythological motifs.

Kindness & empathy3/5

Why this rating?

Friendship and loyalty are highlighted against a backdrop of betrayal.

Positive messages3/5

Why this rating?

Explores themes of personal agency, self-acceptance, and the cost of power.

Good role models3/5

Why this rating?

Protagonist displays resilience and growth, though characters often make flawed choices under pressure.

Family discussion

Talk about it

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

What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
Which choice in A TREACHERY OF SWANS would you have made differently, and why?
Who changed the most in A TREACHERY OF SWANS, and what caused that change?

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