Dickens & Rumi
Cover of THE ARCANA CHRONICLES

book

THE ARCANA CHRONICLES

Kresley Cole

Struggle and survival in a post-apocalyptic world. (Ages 14 and up)

Ages 15+Source checked

Why this age? The work combines post-apocalyptic threat, repeated fantasy violence, frightening peril, death and grief, intense romance, and some sexual content; its themes and reading complexity suit mature teens. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age15+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character4/5
  • Frightening scenes4/5
  • Romance4/5

Strongest positives

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

What’s in it?

Death of a character4/5
Why this rating?

The premise revolves around a competition where characters are killed off. Significant character deaths are common.

Graphic injury3/5
Why this rating?

Descriptions of injuries and brutal deaths occur throughout the series, though not excessively fetishized.

Strong language3/5
Why this rating?

Occasional strong language and profanity used in character dialogue.

LGBTQIA characters1/5
Why this rating?

LGBTQIA representation appears incidental rather than central, with the story primarily focused on heterosexual romance and relationships.

Religious themes2/5
Why this rating?

Uses mythological and tarot-based mysticism rather than traditional organized religion.

Romance4/5
Why this rating?

Romantic attraction, relationship conflict, jealousy, and emotionally intense pairings are major parts of the story.

Frightening scenes4/5
Why this rating?

A dangerous ruined world, hostile supernatural beings, pursuit, imprisonment, and ongoing threats create sustained frightening tension.

Sexual content & nudity3/5
Why this rating?

There is sensuality, sexual tension, and some sexual activity appropriate to a mature-teen/new-adult fantasy romance, without being purely explicit erotica.

Alcohol or drugs2/5
Why this rating?

Some instances of alcohol consumption, reflecting the survivalist environment.

Violence4/5
Why this rating?

Frequent life-or-death battles, supernatural combat, and scenes of apocalyptic destruction.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Characters frequently display significant bravery in the face of overwhelming odds.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Highly imaginative world-building utilizing the Tarot deck structure.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Features a diverse cast of characters with varied backgrounds, though focus remains on the primary trio.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

It may prompt interest in tarot and mythic archetypes, but teaching factual knowledge is not its purpose.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Kindness and empathy are key to character development and maintaining humanity in a brutal world.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

The story emphasizes survival, loyalty, self-determination, sacrifice, and choosing how to use power during crisis.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Characters display resilience and growth, though often act impulsively due to extreme circumstances.

Family discussion

Talk about it

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. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in THE ARCANA CHRONICLES would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in THE ARCANA CHRONICLES, and what caused that change?
Discuss this title with other parents

Community reactions

What families noticed

Add your perspective

Sign in from the homepage to rate this title.

Where to get it

Find in a libraryBuy on Bookshop.orgBuy on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate and Bookshop.org affiliate, Dickens & Rumi may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

If you liked this

Try something nearby

Related by age fit, format, and catalogue context.

You’re hereTHE ARCANA CHRONICLES
The Violet Fairy Book (Large Print)Andrew Lang · 1901Ages 12+The Lilac Fairy BookAndrew Lang · 1910Ages 12+The Green Fairy BookAndrew Lang · 1892Ages 12+The Poison JungleTui T. Sutherland · 2019Ages 14+

These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

Report an incorrect rating