Content levels
Trigger warnings
Hero archetypes
Heroine archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Tropes
Themes
Synopsis
Elantris: gigantic, beautiful, radiant-----filled with powerful individuals who use their magical abilities to benefit all the people of Arelon. Yet each of these godlike beings was once an ordinary person until touched by the mysterious transforming power of Shaod. Then, ten years ago, without warning, the magic failed. Elantrians became wizened, feeble, leper-like creatures, and Elantris itself dark, filthy, and crumbling. The Shaod became a curse. Arelon's new capital city, Kae, crouches in the shadow of Elantris, which its people do their best to ignore. Princess Sarene of Teod has come to Kae for a marriage of state with Crown Prince Raoden, hoping also to find love. Sarene learns instead that Raoden has died, and she is considered his widow. Both Teod and Arelon are under threat from the imperial ambitions of Fjordell, a city filled with ruthless religious fanatics, and whose high priest, Hrathen, intends to convert Arelon and claim it for his emperor and his god. Now Sarene alone stands in his way. But neither Sarene nor Hrathen suspects the truth about Prince Raoden's disappearance. Taken by the same strange malady that felled the gods of Elantris, Raoden was secretly imprisoned within the dark city. His struggle to create a society for the wretches trapped there begins a series of events that will bring hope to Arelon, and reveal the secret of Elantris itself. -- From the hardback inside cover
Is Elantris appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 14 and up.
Elantris features moderate fantasy violence, political intrigue, and religious conflict. The magic system involves a disease-like transformation that creates disturbing physical changes. Romance is very mild (closed door). Themes include religious persecution and class struggle.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, no sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include death of a loved one, chronic illness, and body horror (see the full list above).
Publisher ages reflect reading level; our rating reflects content maturity — they can differ.
Who'll love this
Teens will appreciate the intricate magic system, political schemes, and multiple character perspectives as they work to solve the mystery of Elantris and save their kingdom.