When two worlds wage war, one woman can unite them or drive them further apart. Crown and Creed from Laura VanArendonk Baugh starts with a tentative peace established between the Ryuven and Human worlds thanks to the efforts of mage Ariana Hazelrig. But the peace won’t last. After the last battle, the Ryuven prince lies near death. His accused attacker is Shianan Becknam, the Human warrior whom Ariana loves and who helped her escape the Ryuven world.¹ One bad choice from either of them could cancel the treaty and throw their two worlds back into war. This third installment of the Shard of Elan series proves just as compelling as the first two. Baugh’s saga deepens political and romantic intrigues among a richly unique fantasy world and compelling cast of characters.

Best for: Young adults and older fans of fantasy, especially an ongoing series.

Discern: Military violence, torture, some sensuality and references to sex.