11 Jun Teen BookTok Recommendations: Worth the Hype?
Lightlark 
by Alex Aster
Every hundred years, the island of Lightlark emerges to host the Centennial, a deadly competition where six cursed rulers vie for one chance to break their realms’ ancient curses—even at the cost of one ruler’s life. Isla Crown, the young ruler of Wildling, a feared realm of temptresses cursed to kill whomever they fall in love with, must navigate lies, betrayal, and forbidden love to survive and save her people, even if it means dooming another.
Is Lightlark worth the hype? That depends on who you ask. It follows a well-established formula that some find enjoyable, but others find all too predictable. The premise of competing for survival is reminiscent of other popular stories like Divergent or The Hunger Games. Although the setting offers an interesting location for the competition to take place, some plot points still fall flat. Is it worth the hype? Not really.
Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins
In the fiftieth Hunger Games, known as the second Quarter Quell, Haymitch Abernathy is forced into an arena with three other tributes from District 12, including a close friend and a girl he loves. As he faces betrayal, violence, and manipulation by the Capitol, Haymitch discovers a defiant will to survive that will echo far beyond the Games.
Is Sunrise on the Reaping worth the hype? If you’re looking for more of The Hunger Games, the answer is yes. Set twenty-four years before the start of the first book in The Hunger Games series, it follows the story of how Haymitch Abernathy became the character he is in the main series. If you’re returning to or wanting to get into The Hunger Games, the book adds more of what people have come to expect. Is it worth the hype? For fans of the series, it is.
Caraval by Stephanie Garber
Scarlett Dragna has never left the island she calls home, living under the control of her cruel father who has arranged a marriage for her. When she and her sister Tella receive invitations to Caraval, a magical game where the audience participates, they escape with the help of a mysterious sailor. But once they arrive, Tella is kidnapped as part of the game, and Scarlett must unravel a world of illusion, magic, and deceit to save her before time runs out.
Is Caraval worth the hype? It has some good things going for it. The semi-historical setting and the whimsical yet dark atmosphere of Caraval create an enjoyable world to explore. The distinct personalities of the two sisters and their loyalty to each other add depth to the story. Although there are inconsistencies and some characters feel hollow, there are still aspects to enjoy. Is it worth the hype? If you’re looking for a new fantasy series, try it out.
The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
To claim her inheritance, Avery must move into the enigmatic Hawthorne House, filled with puzzles and riddles left by Tobias Hawthorne. Complicating matters, the house is still occupied by the family Tobias dispossessed, which includes his four grandsons. The eldest, Grayson, suspects Avery is a conwoman, while his brother, Jameson, sees her as a puzzle to solve. Surrounded by danger and privilege, Avery must navigate this treacherous environment to secure her future.
Is The Inheritance Games worth the hype? Rags to riches, mystery, and drama are at its core. The story presents many mysteries, such as why Avery was chosen, who Tobias Hawthorne was and what his connection to Avery is, and why Tobias passed over his four grandsons. Although there are these mysteries and more to unravel, the book focuses more on drama than on finding answers. Is it worth the hype? For those who enjoy drama, it is. For those who are looking for a riddle to solve, it may be lacking.
Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli
On the night that changed Rune’s life, a revolution reduced witches from rulers to hunted outcasts, forcing her to hide her identity. By day, she feigns the role of a superficial socialite, but by night, she becomes the Crimson Moth, a vigilante rescuing witches. When she begins courting the handsome witch hunter Gideon Sharpe to gather intel, he discovers her true identity, leading him to question whether she is the villain he hunts or his perfect match.
Is Heartless Hunter worth the hype? It features an enemies-to-lovers storyline with intrigue and witches, following the perspectives of both the witch and her hunter. The unique magic system enhances the world-building, even if some of the characters’ motivations seem weak or hollow. The back-and-forth between Rune and Gideon will captivate drama fans. It’s a fast and entertaining read that many will enjoy. Is it worth the hype? For many, it will be.
-written by Alex B, Teen Central Library Assistant
