Faeries, Faeries, Everywhere

When I was a kid, I didn't really read fantasy novels--no princesses trapped in towers guarded by dragons, no elves, no faeries (unless watching "Fern Gully" about 50 times counts), no trolls. I was too wrapped up in "reality": Beverly Cleary, The Babysitters Club, Sweet Valley High, and the like.

But now? Now I'm making up for lost time. All I want to read is faeries.

I'm not sure what it is about the mystical beauties that I find so compelling lately--maybe I'm just craving an escape from the everyday. But whatever it is, over the past few years, I've been flocking to the most enchanting and engaging faerie-filled YA series:

Holly Black's "A Modern Faerie Tale" series









This trilogy is one of my favorites. Holly Black's writing hooked me from the first page of book one. She meshes the modern and faerie worlds with such ease and believability. Definitely a fun and exciting ride you don't want to miss.

Melissa Marr's "Wicked Lovely" series
















I've only read the first one of these books so far, but the rest are now in my queue! Marr takes the concept of solstices and uses it in an imaginative and engrossing way. Her villians are as "likeable" as her heroes, a task not easily fulfilled but one that makes for a strong, fascinating read full of emotional contradiction.

Jenna Black's "Faeriewalker" series










I powered through this trilogy. Black kept me simultaneously deeply engrossed and hovering on the edge of my seat. Her writing is smooth and pacing is quick--I would not be surprised if you read the entire series in a week (or less).

Laini Taylor's "Faeries of Dreamdark" series











This series is lushly written and sophisticated YA fantasy with a literary bent. Leisurely but enjoyable reads overflowing with detail, beauty, and power. Taylor hasn't gotten nearly as much attention as the other authors on this list but certainly not due to lack of talent!

What are some of YOUR favorite faerie novels?

Clearly, I need more recommendations... ;)