These Kindred Hearts

Debut author Pennant gathers 17 authors—including Zoraida Córdova, Kwame Mbalia, and Maggie Tokuda-Hall—for a dreamy collection of fantastical tales about love’s ability to defy magic, monsters, and the occasional apocalypse. Each story unfolds in a distinct fantasy setting, from a seaside town frequented by mysterious sirens to an infernal realm governed by an elaborate royal court. The contributors also span a wide range of styles and subgenres, creating an eclectic mix that moves comfortably between high fantasy adventure and lighter, more whimsical fare. Among the standouts is Sophie Li’s “Chloe’s Cat,” a darkly comedic tale in which a girl’s beloved pet devours her longtime crush, forcing her to confront the awkward consequences. “Old Gods” by Chelsea Padilla offers a more tender romance, following a boy who falls for a shape-shifter—despite the inconvenient fact that his father makes a living hunting monsters. Stakes climb even higher in Pennant’s “Meet Me at World’s End,” in which a demon hunter and her crush must save the world from impending doom. Across the selections, intersectionally diverse teens grapple with difficult choices as love collides with loyalty to family, duty to community, or the risks of a dangerous world. Stories with varying voices and tones culminate in a beguiling offering about romances that challenge expectations and survive extraordinary obstacles. Ages 14–up. Agent: Vicky Weber, CMA. (June)