Tough-O-Meter

We've got your back. With the Tough-O-Meter, you'll know whether to bring extra layers or Swiss army knives as you summit the literary mountain. (10 = Toughest)

(6) Tree Line

We're not going to lie to you: Some of the language in this book is tough. And yeah, okay, sometimes the characters spout off philosophy in between stabbings and skullduggery. And sure, it was published way back when, so not every phrase is familiar. But the plot is engaging, the characters are dramatic, and it really doesn't matter if you get every last detail—there's bound to be another fight scene soon.