Dickens & Rumi
Cover of THE INVOCATIONS

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THE INVOCATIONS

Krystal Sutherland

Three teenage girls, one of whom is a witch, join forces to track down a serial killer. (Ages 12 to 17)

Ages 15+Source checked

Why this age? The book contains significant dark fantasy elements, including intense occult violence, disturbing imagery, gore related to ritualistic magic, and complex themes regarding grief, morality, and systemic exploitation. 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
  • Graphic injury4/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Diverse representation3/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character4/5
Why this rating?

Significant character deaths, including those of family members; death is a central plot driver.

Graphic injury4/5
Why this rating?

Includes graphic descriptions of injuries, body horror related to magical pacts, and crime scene details.

Strong language3/5
Why this rating?

Moderate use of strong language consistent with a gritty urban setting.

LGBTQIA characters3/5
Why this rating?

Includes LGBTQIA characters whose identities are integrated naturally into the narrative.

Religious themes3/5
Why this rating?

Explores occult and quasi-religious practices as part of its magic system, not established faith.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Contains romantic subplots, though these are secondary to the primary mystery and survival themes.

Frightening scenes4/5
Why this rating?

Demons, curses, occult threats, peril, and a serial-killer premise create sustained frightening and suspenseful scenes.

Sexual content & nudity2/5
Why this rating?

Limited sexual references; focus is on dark fantasy and thriller elements.

Alcohol or drugs2/5
Why this rating?

Occasional social use or depictions that are minor within the context of the story.

Violence4/5
Why this rating?

Frequent depictions of occult violence, magical combat, and grim physical confrontations.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Characters face overwhelming magical odds with significant bravery.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Imaginative world-building regarding how magic functions in a modern, gritty context.

Diverse representation3/5
Why this rating?

Features a diverse cast with varied backgrounds and identities.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Focus is primarily on narrative entertainment rather than specific educational instruction.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Strong emphasis on loyalty and mutual support between the main characters.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Deals with themes of sacrifice, consequences of power, and resilience.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Characters display grit and determination, though they often make morally grey choices.

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. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in THE INVOCATIONS would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in THE INVOCATIONS, and what caused that change?
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Related by age fit, format, and catalogue context.

You’re hereTHE INVOCATIONS
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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