In today's ever-expanding literary landscape, finding fiction that provides not only an engaging storyline but also promotes wholesome values can be a challenge. Due to prevailing market preferences for intense conflict and drama, which can overshadow quieter, morally-driven narratives. Additionally, the subjective nature of "wholesome" values and varying cultural perspectives further complicates the search for stories that align with individual readers' criteria for positivity and virtue. However, for readers who yearn for literature free from explicit content and violence, there is a growing movement towards clean fiction.
Debates about whether books with explicit content are considered a problem or not are subjective and context-dependent. It often involves a balance between freedom of expression, individual values, and age-appropriateness.
Readers need a balance of clean fiction especially for young readers and teenagers, as it ensures they are exposed to content that aligns with their developmental stage and avoids explicit material that could be inappropriate and harmful. On the other hand, readers who prefer more explicit content can have significant influence on the publishing industry, literary trends, and societal discussion. They contribute to a substantial market demand for books, movies, and other forms of media that explore mature themes, including sexuality, violence, and graphic language. Works featuring explicit content often attract interest from filmmakers and television producers. Successful adaptations can further popularize the source material and wider audience, making it accessible to all ages and most likely expose the younger audience.
With an emphasis on gripping narratives that steer clear of explicit material, this genre offers refreshing alternatives that appeal to readers of all ages. In this article, we will explore a selection of clean fiction recommendations that will not only entertain but also elevate the reader's spirit, fostering a sense of positivity and inspiration.
So, whether you are looking for captivating stories to share with your family, seeking a break from intense themes, or simply aiming to uplift your reading experience, these clean fiction recommendations will guide you towards literary works that prioritize moral messages and celebrate the purity of storytelling.
FANTASY:
We Hunt The Flame Duology by Hafsah Faizal
We Hunt the Flame is a captivating YA fantasy novel set in a magical world where two young warriors from opposite walks of life must embark on a perilous journey to find an ancient artifact that could save their kingdom from darkness. Zafira is a skilled hunter who disguises herself as a man in order to maintain her freedom and independence, while Nasir is a deadly assassin who does the bidding of his tyrannical father, the king. As they come together, they must learn to trust and rely on each other as they navigate dangerous terrain, mythical creatures, and treacherous villains in their quest to restore peace and prosperity to their realm.
2. The Caraval Trilogy by Stephanie Garber
Caraval is a YA fantasy novel about two sisters, Scarlett and Tella, who escape their oppressive father and enter the magical world of Caraval, a once-a-year performance that takes place on a mysterious island. The sisters have always dreamed of attending, but when they finally arrive, they discover that the game is much darker and more dangerous than they ever imagined. Tella is drawn deeper into the secrets and intrigues of Caraval that she mysteriously disappears. The stakes are high as the sisters race against time to solve the game's cryptic clues and find Tella before it's too late. Along the way, Scarlett must grapple with her own insecurities and fears, while also confronting the dark secrets of her past that threaten to destroy everything she loves. With beautiful prose, vivid imagery, and a dash of romance, Caraval is a thrilling ride that will keep readers guessing until the very end.
3. Once Upon A Broken Heart Trilogy by Stephanie Garber
Once Upon a Broken Heart is a captivating young adult trilogy by Stephanie Garber that follows the story of Evangeline Fox, an orphan girl who possesses an uncanny ability to heal others with her touch. One day, in her quest to find her true family, she stumbles upon the mysterious and alluring Julian, who promises to help her uncover the secrets of her past. But as she gets closer to Julian, Evangeline realizes that he too is hiding a dark past and that their fates are intertwined in unexpected ways. When the magical world of the Four Realms is threatened by a powerful curse, Evangeline and Julian embark on a daring adventure to save it, facing dangerous creatures, betrayal, and heartbreak along the way. With Garber's trademark lyrical prose, evocative world-building, and memorable characters, Once Upon a Broken Heart is a mesmerizing tale of love, loss, and redemption that will enchant readers of all ages.
4. All The Stars and Teeth Duology by Adalyn Grace
All the Stars and Teeth is an epic high-fantasy novel by Adalyn Grace that takes place in an expansive world of magic and mystery. The story follows the fearless princess Amora Montara, who is destined to take over as the next ruler of the kingdom of Visidia. Though Amora is endowed with powerful magic and an unstoppable will, she has yet to prove her worthiness of the crown. In order to do so, she must pass a series of trials that will test her mettle and determine her fitness to rule. As Amora sets out on her journey, she is joined by a motley crew of allies, including a handsome rogue, a mermaid thief, and a vengeful pirate queen. Together, they must uncover the secrets of their world and confront the nefarious forces that threaten to destroy it. With its richly detailed world-building, heart-pounding action, and layered characters, All the Stars and Teeth is a thrilling adventure that will leave readers breathless from start to finish.
The Inheritance Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin
The Inheritance Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin is a remarkable fantasy saga that transports readers to a richly woven world where gods, mortals, and the blurred lines between them take center stage. What makes this trilogy stand out is its commitment to "clean fiction," a literary approach that doesn't shy away from exploring the raw and complex aspects of human nature and the divine.
As the tale unfolds across three interconnected novels, readers are immersed in a narrative that unflinchingly examines the moral dilemmas, emotional intricacies, and multifaceted relationships between characters. Jemisin's storytelling doesn't rely on simplistic notions of right and wrong, but instead invites readers to grapple with the profound consequences of choices made by characters in this intricate and thought-provoking world. In doing so, The Inheritance Trilogy challenges conventions of traditional fantasy, presenting a compelling and refreshingly authentic portrayal of the human condition and the complexities of power, love, and identity.
5. The Riddle-Master Trilogy by Patricia A. Mckillip
"The Riddle-Master Trilogy" by Patricia A. McKillip is a timeless fantasy series that enchants readers with its immersive world-building. This trilogy explores the concept of "clean fiction" by weaving together a captivating narrative that focuses on the elegance of storytelling and the profound impact of language and riddles.
In this enchanting realm, the power of words and riddles is at the heart of the story. The protagonist, a young prince, must navigate a world filled with mysteries and enigmatic puzzles that hold the keys to his destiny and the fate of his land. As he delves deeper into the intricate tapestry of riddles, readers are drawn into a world where language is both a weapon and a source of revelation.
"The Riddle-Master Trilogy" stands out for its commitment to crafting a narrative that is free from gratuitous violence and explicit content, allowing readers of all ages to immerse themselves in a rich, clean fantasy world. In this tale, the power of imagination and the beauty of language take center stage, inviting readers to engage in a thought-provoking and enchanting journey that celebrates the magic of words and storytelling.
URBAN FANTASY:
The Renegades Trilogy by Marissa Meyers
In Renegades by Marissa Meyers, the story takes place in a world where superheroes known as "Renegades" have brought peace and order to society after years of chaos and anarchy. Nova, a young girl with a troubled past, has grown up in this world, and now she has a singular goal – to destroy the Renegades. Nova has witnessed the many flaws and failures of the Renegades, and knows that they are not the heroes that everyone thinks they are. Determined to get her revenge, she infiltrates their ranks and becomes one of the Renegades' own – all the while plotting to bring them down from within. Things get complicated when Nova falls for a charismatic Renegade named Adrian, even as she struggles with her own beliefs and loyalties. As the stakes get higher and the lines between right and wrong become increasingly blurred, Nova and Adrian find themselves on opposite sides of a conflict that threatens to tear society apart. With its action-packed plot, complex characters, and twisty tale of conflicting loyalties, Renegades is a thrilling ride that will have readers eagerly turning the pages until the very end.
2. Skyward Series by Brandon Sanderson
In Brandon Sanderson's Skyward, humanity has been driven to the brink of extinction on a desolate planet constantly under attack from an alien race called the Krell. Spensa Nightshade, a fiercely determined young woman, dreams of becoming a pilot to defend her people and escape the ground-up prison that her world has become. However, her troubled past and her famous pilot father being labeled a coward haunt her every step. Against all odds, Spensa earns a spot in flight school, where she faces prejudice, rivalry, and a demanding flight instructor named Cobb. As she struggles to prove herself and uncover the truth about her father, she discovers an ancient ship hidden beneath the surface of her planet—a ship that may hold the key to humanity’s survival. With the fate of her people and her own journey of self-discovery intertwining, Spensa must become more than just a pilot, but a symbol of hope in a war-ravaged world. Skyward is an exhilarating sci-fi adventure filled with intricate world-building, heart-pounding aerial combat, and a courageous protagonist who must confront both her own fears and the truth about her world to find redemption and save those she loves.
3. Steelheart Trilogy by Brandon Sanderson
In Brandon Sanderson's Steelheart, the world has been completely transformed by the arrival of Epics, humans with superhuman abilities who rule with an iron fist and crush any resistance. David Charleston has lived his entire life in a world ruled by Epics, and has a single goal - to avenge his father's death at the hands of Steelheart, the most powerful and invincible Epic of them all. Armed with only a handful of clues about Steelheart's weakness, David joins a group of rebels known as the Reckoners, who are dead-set on bringing down Steelheart and saving humanity. The Reckoners operate in secret, striking at the Epics' weakest points and avoiding detection - but as David becomes more involved with the group, he soon discovers that their methods are far from foolproof, and that they may be playing a far more dangerous game than they ever imagined. With his own life on the line and the fate of the world at stake, David must navigate a web of deception and betrayal to uncover the truth about Steelheart, his own true power, and the secret that holds the key to destroying the Epics. Fast-paced and action-packed, Steelheart is a thrilling tale of rebellion, revenge, and redemption that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.
4. The Midnight Bargain by C.L. Polk
"The Midnight Bargain" by C.L. Polk is a captivating historical fantasy novel that skillfully combines its enchanting magical world with an emphasis on "clean fiction." Set in a society where women's magical abilities are suppressed and marriage is the ultimate goal, this novel explores the complexities of ambition, love, and societal expectations within the confines of a clean and thought-provoking narrative.
Beatrice Clayborn is determined to have it all. She yearns for a future where she can both harness her magical abilities and find true love. However, societal norms and expectations stand in her way.
"The Midnight Bargain" tackles these themes with a delicate touch, avoiding explicit content while delving deep into the challenges and choices faced by its characters. As Beatrice navigates the constraints of her world, readers are invited to ponder questions of gender roles, autonomy, and personal sacrifice within a beautifully crafted, clean narrative. This novel's emphasis on clean fiction allows readers of all ages to engage with its compelling story and timeless themes, making it a memorable and thought-provoking read.
5. The Bone Season by Samantha Shannon
"The Bone Season" by Samantha Shannon is a mesmerizing debut novel that not only introduces readers to a complex and intriguing dystopian world but also places a unique emphasis on the importance of clean fiction. Shannon's storytelling prowess shines through her vividly crafted universe, unique characters, and thought-provoking themes, all while highlighting the enduring power of untainted literature.
Set in the year 2059, the story unfolds in the city of Scion London, a society where clairvoyants, individuals with supernatural abilities, are hunted and imprisoned. The protagonist, Paige Mahoney, is a rare type of clairvoyant known as a dreamwalker. Her ability to enter the minds of others in a dream state makes her a coveted asset in the underground criminal syndicate she works for. As Paige navigates the treacherous world of clairvoyants and the oppressive Scion regime, she becomes an unlikely symbol of resistance.
Throughout the narrative, forbidden books and knowledge become powerful symbols of resistance against the oppressive regime. Clean fiction represents the purest form of storytelling, untainted by censorship or manipulation. The preservation of these stories becomes not just a literary pursuit but a form of rebellion against a government that seeks to control every aspect of society, including the written word.
"The Bone Season" also touches on thought-provoking themes such as power, oppression, and the consequences of blind obedience to authority. The novel encourages readers to question the moral complexities of a society that devalues individuality and creativity in its quest for control while emphasizing the crucial role that clean fiction plays in preserving the integrity of storytelling.
ROMANCE:
Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter
In Lynn Painter's Better Than The Movies, teenaged Liz Buxbaum is a hopeless romantic who lives her life through the lens of classic romantic movies of the 90s and early 2000s. When her longtime crush, Michael, suddenly shows interest in her, she thinks she's found her happily ever after. But as she navigates the ups and downs of her first relationship, Liz realizes that real life is much messier than the movies. As Liz discovers more about herself and her feelings, she learns that sometimes love doesn't look like what we see in the movies and that the path to finding happiness can be filled with missteps and heartache. With a warm and funny voice, Better Than The Movies is a heart-warming coming-of-age story that explores self-discovery, friendship, and the balancing act of finding true love.
2. The Do-Over by Lynn Painter
In Lynn Painter's The Do-Over, 16-year-old Emelia has the opportunity to relive the past two years of her life when she wakes up one morning to find herself back at the start of her freshman year in high school. Armed with her future knowledge, Emelia is determined to make different choices in order to change her life for the better and avoid the mistakes she has made before. However, as she navigates her way through adolescence with a new perspective, Emelia realizes that changing the past is not as easy as it seems. She must confront the consequences of her choices and consider the impact they may have on her relationships, including her budding romance with the charming and popular Aiden. The Do-Over is a thought-provoking and entertaining story about the struggle to balance the need for change and the acceptance of who we are, where we come from, and where we're heading.
3. The Bodyguard by Katherine Center
In "The Bodyguard" by Katherine Center, Hannah Brooks, an unassuming Executive Protection Agent, finds herself in an unexpected role when she's hired to protect the charming but troubled superstar actor, Jack Stapleton. Jack, known for his Hollywood fame and striking looks, has been living in seclusion following a family tragedy. However, when his mother falls ill, he returns to the family ranch in Texas.
There's a twist in this tale: Jack is hiding a dangerous secret—he has a relentless stalker. Desperate to shield his family from the truth, he persuades Hannah to pose as his girlfriend, a cover story that strains her better judgment. Even her skeptical ex doubts the credibility of their relationship.
As Hannah and Jack navigate this high-stakes charade, a surprising connection begins to form between them. What was meant to be a professional arrangement turns into something much more real. But as the line between pretense and reality blurs, Hannah faces her toughest challenge yet: guarding her own long-neglected heart.
"The Bodyguard" is a gripping and heartwarming story of unlikely love, trust, and the lengths one woman will go to protect the man she's hired to guard, while also shielding her own vulnerable heart from unforeseen emotional entanglements.
4. That Time I Kissed a Groomsman Grump by Julie Christianson
In "That Time I Kissed The Groomsman Grump," clean fiction readers are treated to a delightful romantic comedy that prioritizes genuine connection and heartwarming moments over explicit content. This novel, part of the Time of Your Life series, introduces us to the charming and relatable characters, Brady and Natalie, who navigate the complexities of attraction, friendship, and family ties in a small-town setting.
Brady Graham and Natalie Slater share a history as friends, but their growing attraction threatens to complicate their already interconnected lives. As the Maid of Honor and Best Man in their respective siblings' wedding, their paths become unavoidably entwined, and their chemistry sizzles with every encounter. Yet, the potential complications of their budding romance weigh heavily on their minds, especially with family dynamics at play.
Natalie dreams of a future on the west coast while Brady is committed to his small-town responsibilities and secret ambitions. The tension between their desires and the promise they've made to their families forms the backdrop for their heartwarming and humorous journey.
Readers of "That Time I Kissed The Groomsman Grump" can expect a captivating and entertaining story that explores the nuances of love and desire without delving into explicit scenes. Instead, the focus is on the humor, warmth, and relatable moments that make clean fiction such a delightful and enjoyable genre. In this clean romcom, love blossoms amidst family gatherings, and the spark between Brady and Natalie provides a satisfying and entertaining escape for readers seeking a clean and heartwarming love story.
5. The Flat Share by Beth O’Leary
In Beth O'Leary's enchanting novel, "The Flatshare," readers are welcomed into a world where the power of connection transcends the boundaries of physical space and the importance of clean fiction shines brightly. Tiffy and Leon, two strangers facing life's challenges, embark on a unique arrangement that intertwines their lives and introduces them to the transformative magic of literature.
Tiffy Moore, a quirky and endearing editorial assistant, finds herself in a dire housing situation. With limited resources and a need for a new place to live, she stumbles upon an unusual offer: sharing a one-bedroom flat with a stranger, Leon Twomey, a night-shift nurse. The catch? They'll never meet in person; instead, they'll share the same space at different times of the day.
As Tiffy and Leon begin their unconventional cohabitation, the novel's emphasis on clean fiction becomes evident. Both passionate readers, they discover a shared love for literature, particularly classic novels and stories that transcend time. The flat's shelves gradually fill with an eclectic mix of clean fiction books, and the act of reading becomes a bridge that connects these two seemingly disparate souls.
Beth O'Leary's novel is a delightful celebration of the connections we can form with others, even when physical proximity is not possible. It reminds us that clean fiction, with its timeless stories and universal themes, has the ability to transcend boundaries and bring people together, offering a safe and comforting refuge in a complex world.
HISTORICAL FICTION:
Lovely War by Julie Berry
In the enchanting historical fiction novel "Lovely War" by Julie Berry, readers are transported into the tumultuous times of World War I and World War II, where the enduring themes of love, sacrifice, and the indomitable human spirit take center stage. This beautifully crafted narrative is an excellent choice for those seeking clean fiction that delves deep into the complexities of love and war while maintaining a focus on the power of the human heart.
Set against the backdrop of 1917, the story introduces us to two couples whose lives become intertwined amidst the chaos of the Great War. Hazel, a talented but shy pianist, and James, a newly enlisted soldier with dreams of becoming an architect, share a profound and immediate love. However, their romance is cut short when James is sent to the brutal battlefields.
On a parallel path, Aubrey Edwards, a gifted musician from the all-African-American 15th New York Infantry, is also bound for the front lines. Love is the furthest thing from his mind until he crosses paths with Colette Fournier, a Belgian chanteuse who has already endured unimaginable tragedy at the hands of the Germans.
"Lovely War" weaves together the destinies of these four individuals, revealing their experiences, passions, and the sacrifices made during a time of global upheaval. Their stories are narrated by Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, in a luxurious Manhattan hotel room during World War II. Her quest to understand the age-old connection between Love and War unveils a multi-layered narrative rich in themes of prejudice, trauma, and the unifying power of music.
In "Lovely War," readers will find a captivating historical fiction tale that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring bonds of love amidst the trials of war. This novel offers a clean fiction experience that explores the depths of the heart while shedding light on the profound impact of historical events, all while emphasizing the timeless strength of love and the human capacity for compassion and connection.
2. A Very Large Expanse Of Sea By Tahereh Mafi
In "A Very Large Expanse of Sea" by Tahereh Mafi, readers are invited into the life of Shirin, a teenage girl navigating the complex landscape of post-9/11 America. Shirin's world is defined by her Muslim identity, her love for breakdancing, and her choice to wear a hijab. However, it's also marked by the prejudice and ignorance she faces daily.
Set in the early 2000s, shortly after the tragic events of September 11th, Shirin's life is far from typical. She's learned to build walls around herself as a defense mechanism against the bigotry she encounters. Her focus is on her passions, particularly breakdancing, where she finds solace and self-expression.
When Ocean James, a charming and seemingly genuine boy, enters Shirin's life, she's initially skeptical of his intentions. She's grown used to people making assumptions about her based on her appearance and religion. But as she and Ocean connect through their shared love for music, they form a bond that transcends prejudice and societal expectations.
"A Very Large Expanse of Sea" is a poignant and powerful coming-of-age story that emphasizes clean fiction values. It explores themes of love, identity, and resilience in the face of adversity, without relying on explicit content. Tahereh Mafi's storytelling shines as she delves into Shirin's journey, highlighting the importance of understanding, empathy, and the ability to see beyond stereotypes.
Readers of clean fiction will appreciate this novel for its compelling narrative that navigates the challenges of adolescence and prejudice while delivering a message of hope and the enduring power of connection, making it a thought-provoking and accessible read for a wide range of audiences.
3. All The Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
"All the Light We Cannot See" by Anthony Doerr is a beautifully crafted novel that not only weaves together the lives of its two protagonists, Marie-Laure and Werner, during World War II but also exemplifies the concept of clean fiction.
In a world filled with chaos and darkness, this novel shines as a beacon of literary purity. Clean fiction emphasizes the power of storytelling without relying on explicit content or gratuitous elements. Anthony Doerr's prose in this book is a testament to the notion that a well-told story can captivate readers without resorting to shock value or excessive graphic detail.
Set against the backdrop of war, "All the Light We Cannot See" manages to convey the harsh realities of the time while maintaining a level of restraint that allows readers of all ages to engage with its narrative. It highlights the triumph of the human spirit in the face of adversity, the enduring power of kindness, and the profound connections that can be formed even in the darkest of times.
This novel is a prime example of how clean fiction can be emotionally evocative, thought-provoking, and deeply moving without resorting to explicit content or graphic scenes. It underscores the idea that storytelling, when executed with skill and sensitivity, can leave a lasting impact on readers and transport them to different worlds while maintaining a sense of literary purity. "All the Light We Cannot See" serves as a reminder that sometimes, the most powerful stories are the ones that leave the most to the imagination, allowing readers to fill in the gaps with their own emotions and experiences.
4. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society by Mary Ann Shaefer and Annie Barrows
"The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows is a heartwarming novel that celebrates clean fiction, showcasing the power of storytelling in its purest form.
Set in the aftermath of World War II, this novel introduces us to the charming island of Guernsey, which had endured the occupation by German forces. The story unfolds through letters exchanged between the protagonist, Juliet Ashton, a writer in search of her next subject, and the members of the eccentric Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. As Juliet delves deeper into the lives and stories of the island's inhabitants, she discovers the resilience of the human spirit, the enduring bonds of friendship, and the healing power of literature.
Clean fiction, as exemplified by this novel, emphasizes the art of storytelling without the need for explicit content or graphic themes. "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" beautifully illustrates that rich, evocative storytelling can engage readers on a profound level without resorting to sensationalism or unnecessary explicitness.
In a world where literature can sometimes be overshadowed by shock value, this novel reminds us of the enduring charm of clean fiction. It captures the imagination and hearts of readers by immersing them in a captivating narrative while maintaining a sense of literary purity. Through the lens of the Guernsey Literary Society's letters, the book showcases the magic of words to heal wounds, forge connections, and illuminate the human experience, proving that storytelling can be both powerful and clean, leaving a lasting impact on readers of all ages.
In conclusion, reading clean fiction can be a refreshing and uplifting experience, particularly for those who seek to avoid explicit content or heavy themes. Whether you enjoy romance, mystery, or historical fiction, there is a clean read out there for you.
So go ahead, pick up a clean fiction book today and immerse yourself in a world of wholesome entertainment. Your mind and heart will thank you for it.
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