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Cover of FALLING KINGDOMS

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FALLING KINGDOMS

Morgan Rhodes

The fates of four teenagers intertwine in this epic fantasy. (Ages 12 to 17)

Ages 14+Source checked

Why this age? The novel combines war, murder, political cruelty, threats, grief, morally complicated choices, and some romantic and sexual themes. Its length and complex plotting also suit mature teen readers. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age14+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character4/5
  • Violence4/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity3/5
  • Positive messages3/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character4/5
Why this rating?

A shocking murder drives the central conflict, with additional deaths and grief connected to political and personal violence.

Graphic injury2/5
Why this rating?

Some descriptions of injuries resulting from combat, though not excessively graphic.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Includes moderate, intermittent strong language appropriate for a teen audience.

LGBTQIA characters1/5
Why this rating?

Minor representation within the broader ensemble cast.

Religious themes2/5
Why this rating?

The plot features fictional religious belief systems and magical mythologies.

Romance3/5
Why this rating?

Includes burgeoning romantic subplots and complex relationships typical of the genre.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Threats, imprisonment, danger, betrayal, war, and dark magical elements create sustained tension for younger readers.

Sexual content & nudity2/5
Why this rating?

Contains mild romantic tension and occasional allusions to adult relationships.

Alcohol or drugs2/5
Why this rating?

Social drinking occurs in a fantasy tavern/court setting.

Violence4/5
Why this rating?

Political violence, executions, attacks, torture threats, and battle-related conflict are recurring and consequential rather than purely cartoonish.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Characters frequently act with bravery in the face of significant danger.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

The invented kingdoms, elemental magic, shifting alliances, and multiple viewpoints strongly support imaginative engagement.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Features an ensemble of characters with varying cultural backgrounds within the fantasy world.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Compassion and loyalty appear amid betrayal and brutality, but kindness is contested and not consistently rewarded.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

It explores the costs of power, loyalty, revenge, class inequality, political responsibility, and the consequences of violence.

Good role models2/5
Why this rating?

Several young protagonists show loyalty, resilience, and courage, though they also make dangerous, morally compromised choices.

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 FALLING KINGDOMS would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in FALLING KINGDOMS, and what caused that change?
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Related by age fit, format, and catalogue context.

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Dark Lord of DerkholmDiana Wynne Jones · 1998Ages 14+A Forest DividedErin Hunter · 2015Ages 14+Drowned Ammet (Dalemark Quartet, Book 2)Diana Wynne Jones · 1977Ages 12+Cart and Cwidder (The Dalemark Quartet)Diana Wynne Jones · 1975Ages 12+

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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