Families who loved An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
A parent might reach for this book when their teen is grappling with feelings of powerlessness against injustice or is drawn to stories of rebellion and courage. Set in a brutal, Roman-inspired empire, "An Ember in the Ashes" follows two protagonists: Laia, a girl from an oppressed class who becomes a spy to save her brother, and Elias, a soldier in the ruling class who despises the tyranny he's forced to uphold. Their paths intertwine in a deadly military academy, forcing them to make choices that could change their world. For older teens (14+), this intense fantasy explores themes of freedom, hope, and resilience amidst violence and systemic oppression. It's an excellent, gripping choice for sparking conversations about morality, the cost of defiance, and finding one's strength in the darkest of times.