This Month in Teen Books: December 2023

Reading recommendations for teens
December 18, 2023
The eagerly awaited conclusion to the story begun in Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross is on the way to library shelves.
 
Book cover with blue and orange flowers in the background of the book title “Ruthless Vows.”Ruthless Vows by Rebecca Ross
Two weeks have passed since Iris Winnow returned home bruised and heartbroken from the front, but the war is far from over. Roman is missing, and the city of Oath continues to dwell in a state of disbelief and ignorance. When Iris and Attie are given another chance to report on Dacre’s movements, they both take the opportunity and head westward once more despite the danger, knowing it’s only a matter of time before the conflict reaches a city that’s unprepared and fracturing beneath the chancellor’s reign.
 
Since waking below in Dacre’s realm, Roman cannot remember his past. But given the reassurance that his memories will return in time, Roman begins to write articles for Dacre, uncertain of his place in the greater scheme of the war. When a strange letter arrives by wardrobe door, Roman is first suspicious, then intrigued. As he strikes up a correspondence with his mysterious pen pal, Roman will soon have to make a decision: to stand with Dacre or betray the god who healed him. And as the days grow darker, inevitably drawing Roman and Iris closer together…the two of them will risk their very hearts and futures to change the tides of the war.

What’s New This Month
The conclusion to Alice Oseman’s Heartstopper series is also on the way, so make sure to place a hold now. Also incoming is a new collection of prose stories based on the Spy X Family manga series, and new books from authors like Amélie Wen Zhao, Allison Saft, Mason Deaver, Julie Abe, Tashie Bhuiyan, and more.  
What’s Hot This Month
December is a fine time to curl up and listen to a good audiobook, so make sure to check out these titles with notable narrators.  
What We’re Reading
Here are some quotes from library staff about the books in the newest list of recommended picks:
 
Café Con Lychee by Emery Lee: “I! Love! Food! Rivalries! Love the diversity of characters and the queer representation!”
 
The Wicked Bargain by Gabe Cole Novoa: “Ghosts, demons, and deals with El Diablo make this adventure a legend.”
   
For More Reading Suggestions: