Graceling

Several major and minor characters die, including the murder of a mother. Death is treated with weight and emotional consequence.

Includes descriptions of physical trauma, torture, and battlefield injuries, though it avoids excessive or gratuitous splatter.

Contains occasional mild profanity and harsh language fitting the intense circumstances of the characters.

A male couple, Raffin and Bann, is established as having a long-term, committed romantic relationship.

The relationship between Katsa and Po is a core pillar of the plot, involving deep emotional bonds and mutual respect.

Threats include torture, coercive mind control, sadism, kidnapping, dangerous travel, pursuit and children placed in serious danger.

Includes consensual romantic intimacy and references to sexual relationships, but remains within the bounds of YA fantasy standards.

Casual references to wine or alcohol in social settings, but not a focal point or glorified.

Frequent combat, assassination missions, and descriptions of torture. High stakes, and violence is central to the protagonist's past as a reluctant enforcer.