Families who loved The Absinthe Underground by Jamie Pacton 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 feeling the weight of financial stress or navigating the complexities of their first serious romantic feelings within a close friendship. It speaks to the desire for independence and the fear of not being able to protect those we love. Set in a lush, Belle Epoque inspired city, the story follows Sybil and Esme, two girls living on the margins who are offered a dangerous heist by a mysterious faerie. While it is a fantasy filled with magic and peril, the heart of the story is about the transition into adulthood and the difficult choices one makes to secure a future. Parents should be aware of the romantic themes and the underground club setting, which serve as a backdrop for a story about loyalty, ambition, and the search for a place to call home. It is a sophisticated, inclusive choice for mature teens who enjoy historical atmosphere mixed with high stakes adventure.