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Cover of Chains of Gold

Chains of Gold

Nancy Springer (1986)

SubgenreHigh Fantasy
Age groupYA 12-17
Content ratingPG-13
Pages (Standard (250-400))
Setting
CSM age13
Goodreads3.59

Content levels

ViolenceModerate
Sexual contentModerate
LanguageNone

Protagonist archetypes

Duo / Partners

Synopsis

Lady Cerilla must wed Arlen, the Summerking, who will be ritually sacrificed once their marriage is consummated. They have not met until, on the eve of their wedding, they fall in love at first sight. In a stunning act of self-sacrifice, Arlen's childhood friend, Lonn, volunteers to die in his place, allowing the lovers to flee. But as the weeks and months pass, their happiness turns to desperation, for they are constantly pursued, not only by Cerilla's mortified father and his forces but by supernatural agencies as well. - from the cover

Is Chains of Gold appropriate for my child?

Suitable for most readers 13 and up.

Features ritual human sacrifice as a central plot element, attempted consummation of marriage, and supernatural pursuit. Violence is moderate with threat and peril but likely not graphic for 1986 fantasy.

What to know going in

This book has moderate violence, moderate sexual content, and clean language. Content notes include death, human sacrifice, and forced marriage.

Who'll love this

Teens will connect with the star-crossed lovers on the run and the ultimate friendship sacrifice that saves them.

Tags

RomanceAdventureMythic Fantasy