Gratton, Tessa, and Justina Ireland. Chaos & Flame. Razorbill, 2023. 978-0-593-35332-5. $19.99. 336 p. Grades 9-12.

Darling Seabreak is a member of House Kraken, but it wasn’t always that way. Once, Darling was a part of House Sphynx until it was destroyed by House Dragon along with her family and the rest of her people. Darling is determined to take her revenge on House Dragon, and when her adoptive father is kidnapped, she vows to do what she must to save him. During her rescue mission, she’s captured by Talon Goldhoard, the War Prince of House Dragon and brother to Caspian, the high Prince Regent. When Caspian reveals Darling’s history to the world, he plans to restore House Sphynx to its former glory. Darling plays along, and in return, Capian has promised not to harm her father. As she is pulled into Caspian’s games and plots while visiting  the other houses, Talon is as well, and although they are enemies, they cannot deny the attraction that exists between them. In the end, Darling must decide where her loyalties truly lie and if allying with Caspian will save their world, or destroy it.

THOUGHTS: I would describe Choas & Flame as a YA Game of Thrones, and it’s a perfect recommendation for readers asking for the aforementioned series that may not be a part of a high school collection. Alternating point of views among diverse characters add to the mysteriousness of the morally gray Prince Caspian, and his unpredictable actions and prophecies will keep readers guessing. This enemies to lovers fantasy will also keep readers hooked and the dramatic ending will leave them wanting more.

Fantasy