Dickens & Rumi
Cover of THIS WICKED FATE

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THIS WICKED FATE

Kalynn Bayron

Briseis must find the last fragment of the Absyrtus Heart in order to save her mother. (Ages 13 and up)

Ages 14+Source checked

Why this age? Best suited to teens because of sustained fantasy danger, violent confrontations, death-related themes, grief, emotional intensity, and some romance; sexual content is limited. 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 character3/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • LGBTQIA characters3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Diverse representation4/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character3/5
Why this rating?

Threats to life are central, with some instances of past or threatened death integral to the plot.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

Some descriptions of injuries or supernatural damage, but not gratuitous or excessive.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Mild language consistent with young adult fiction.

LGBTQIA characters3/5
Why this rating?

Features queer protagonists and LGBTQIA themes as a core part of the character development.

Religious themes3/5
Why this rating?

Involves Greek mythology, which is treated as the world's functional reality rather than a theological practice.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Includes teen romantic dynamics and relationships appropriate for the YA category.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Tense situations involving magical threats and high-stakes supernatural danger.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

No sexual content beyond mild romantic themes.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

No significant focus on substance use.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Features fantasy combat and mythological threats, with characters facing danger and fighting for their lives.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist repeatedly faces dangerous situations to protect others.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Inventive use of botanical powers and reimagining mythological lore.

Diverse representation4/5
Why this rating?

The novel centers Black characters and includes varied identities and relationships with substantial agency, rather than treating diversity as decoration.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Offers a creative interpretation of Greek mythological figures.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

The importance of empathy and supporting loved ones is a key motivator for the protagonist.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Focuses on agency, the importance of family, and defining one's own destiny.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist demonstrates courage, loyalty, and growth.

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 THIS WICKED FATE would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in THIS WICKED FATE, and what caused that change?
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Dark Lord of DerkholmDiana Wynne Jones · 1998Ages 14+Drowned Ammet (Dalemark Quartet, Book 2)Diana Wynne Jones · 1977Ages 12+Cart and Cwidder (The Dalemark Quartet)Diana Wynne Jones · 1975Ages 12+The Secret AdversaryAgatha Christie · 1922Ages 13+

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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