bonus points if it's queer, and definitely enjoy YA but it could also be thematically adult coming-of-age (more serious content, or even flashing back and forth between past and future, youth to adult). folks learning to use their magic and learning about love, the world they're in, and "growing up" would be enjoyable. I'm especially into folks who are guided by ancestors/reconnect with nature and old ways to restore balance, even in a punk/rebellious way.
I'm down with any kind of magic or witchcraft, or even things like werewolves, not so much vampires but they're alright if they're not the main focus (or if there's something inventive or surprising about them/their appearance in the novel).
ideally light on SA or other abuse (okay if mentioned or hinted but not detailed), no animal death (unless it's handled very lovingly, for reference I did not like Emily Wilde because of how coldly it handled animal or creature death) and same rules for character death (only okay if handled lovingly).
examples of what I have enjoyed: Practical Magic (the book not the movie, though the movie is good!), The Hunger Games (good example of a loving death), The Secret Garden (not magic but reconnecting with nature), and The Neverending Story (do not love this animal death but the rest of it is so so good).
I am trying to get back into both reading and writing, I was voracious when I was younger and into my teens but have struggled to get back into both as an adult. coming-of-age are the stories I feel drawn to writing and exploring. thanks in advance!
by okdoomerdance