Families who loved Gathering Darkness by Morgan Rhodes often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is grappling with the realization that the world is not black and white, particularly when they are questioning the ethics of their family or peer group. It is an ideal choice for readers who are ready to explore the heavy weight of moral responsibility and the consequences of choosing justice over loyalty to those who have raised or protected them. The story follows several young royals and rebels in the land of Mytica as they hunt for magical crystals. While the plot is driven by high fantasy and adventure, the heart of the narrative lies in the complex emotional evolution of Prince Magnus and Princess Cleo as they navigate betrayal and the loss of innocence. Because of the intense violence and mature themes of political maneuvering and dark magic, this book is best suited for older teens aged 14 and up. It provides a safe space to discuss the difficulty of standing up to authority figures and the personal cost of doing what is right in a corrupt world.