Fantasy books offer a wonderful escape, and it’s even better when they reflect the rich tapestry of our diverse world. In this article, we’re highlighting 45 fantastic reads that bring LGBTQ+ characters to the forefront. Among them are titles like “The Husky and His White Cat Shizun”, “Light from Uncommon Stars”, “The Final Strife”, and “The Priory of the Orange Tree”. These stories are not just about magic and distant lands, but also about love, identity, and being true to oneself. Join us on this literary journey to explore vibrant worlds where characters love and triumph with authenticity.
Best Fantasy Books with LGBT Characters
A.M. Strickland
Court of the Undying Seasons
Court of the Undying Seasons by A.M. Strickland is a captivating and thrilling vampire novel. The story follows nineteen-year-old Fin, who volunteers to take her secret love's place in the village's Finding. She is terrified of what awaits her at Castle Courtsheart, a vampire school where humans either become vampires, become thralls, or die. Determined to seek revenge for her mother's abduction by vampires, Fin sets out to learn how to kill the undead. However, she becomes entangled in a world of danger and intrigue, especially with her vampire maker, Gavron. As Fin uncovers her own powers and investigates a series of murders, she must find the truth before it's too late.
Aiden Thomas
Cemetery Boys
"Cemetery Boys" by Aiden Thomas is a captivating story about Yadriel, a trans boy in a Latinx community with the ability to see spirits. Determined to prove himself as a real brujo, Yadriel performs a ritual to summon the ghost of his murdered cousin. However, instead of his cousin, he summons Julian Diaz, the resident bad boy of his high school. As Yadriel helps Julian tie up loose ends before leaving, he finds himself growing attached to him.
Alexandra Rowland
A Taste of Gold and Iron
"A Taste of Gold and Iron" by Alexandra Rowland is a captivating book about Kadou, a shy prince who finds himself in a humiliating altercation with a powerful ambassador. In order to prove his loyalty to his sister, the queen, Kadou takes on the responsibility of investigating a break-in at one of their guilds. With the help of his new bodyguard, Evemer, they uncover a conspiracy that could ruin the kingdom's financial standing.
Alicia Jasinska
The Midnight Girls
"The Midnight Girls" by Alicia Jasinska is a captivating tale set in a snowy kingdom during Karnawal season. The story follows two girls, Zosia and Marynka, who unexpectedly find themselves drawn to each other. However, they soon discover that they are rivals competing for the heart of the prince. In a twist of fate, consuming the prince's pure heart will grant immeasurable power. Marynka plans to prove herself by bringing the prince's heart to her patron, while Zosia is determined to claim the prince's heart and its power for herself. As their ambition turns into a magical contest, their attraction to each other grows. But their attempts on the prince's life attract the attention of the city, putting their rivalry and their lives at risk. Will their love for each other survive, or will they lose everything in their pursuit of power?
Andrew Joseph White
Hell Followed With Us
"Hell Followed With Us" by Andrew Joseph White is a gripping novel about a sixteen-year-old trans boy named Benji who is on the run from a dangerous cult. This fundamentalist sect caused the apocalypse and now Benji is desperate to find a safe place where they can't find him or the deadly bioweapon they infected him with. When Benji is saved from monsters by a group of LGBTQ+ teens from the Acheson Center, he is offered shelter and protection. However, he soon discovers that there are hidden agendas and secrets within the group that could jeopardize everything.
Anna_marie McLemore, Elliott McLemore
Venom & Vow
"Venom & Vow" by Anna-Marie McLemore and Elliott McLemore is a captivating YA fantasy novel that tells the story of two enemy kingdoms forced to join forces to break a curse. The book features a transgender prince named Cade McKenna and a bigender dama/assassin named Valencia Palafox as the main characters. Cade is posing as his brother, while Valencia is attending the future queen of Eliana. As they navigate their roles, they are unaware of each other's true identities. Meanwhile, Gael Palma, an infamous boy assassin, is determined to protect Cade, while Patrick McKenna, the reluctant heir to a kingdom, is determined to destroy Gael. Amidst their tangled relationships, Cade and Valencia find themselves blaming each other for a devastating enchantment that affects both their families. Little do they know, they have even more dangerous enemies lurking in the shadows.
C.E. McGill
Our Hideous Progeny
"Our Hideous Progeny" by C.E. McGill is a captivating book set in the 1850s. Mary, the great-niece of Victor Frankenstein, embarks on a journey to uncover the truth behind her great-uncle's mysterious disappearance in the Arctic. In a time of scientific discovery and debates, Mary and her geologist husband, Henry, strive to make a name for themselves in the world of science. When Mary discovers old family papers that reveal shocking secrets, she believes it could secure their future. Their quest takes them to Scotland, where they encounter Henry's enigmatic sister and face a dangerous rival.
Cayla Fay
Ravensong
Neve, along with her two sisters, has spent her life protecting the mortal world from the forces of hell. However, in this lifetime, Neve is the only one of the Irish war gods known as the Morrigan who is still in high school and lacks her full power. Neve eagerly awaits her eighteenth birthday, when she can embrace her divine abilities and leave behind her human facade. But everything changes when she meets Alexandria, a girl who is determined to make Neve embrace her teenage life. As Neve and Alexandria grow closer, Neve begins to see the value in humanity and love. However, their relationship becomes dangerous when Neve realizes that something from Hell is after Alexandria. Now, Neve and her sisters must save Alexandria before her past catches up to all of them.
D.N. Bryn
How to Sell Your Blood & Fall in Love
"How to Sell Your Blood & Fall in Love" by D.N. Bryn is a captivating romance novel with a twist. Dr. Clementine Hughes, a researcher at Vitalis-Barron Pharmaceuticals, finds himself transformed into a vampire after a mysterious accident. Fearing demotion and driven by his growing thirst for blood, Clementine turns to the streets to hunt. Justin Yu, who has dedicated his life to protecting the vampire community, offers Clementine a trade: his blood in exchange for a hefty fee. As Clementine develops an unexpected attraction to Justin, they must navigate the dangers of hunters and a secret that threatens their newfound connection.
Emma Törzs
Ink Blood Sister Scribe
In this captivating debut novel, two half-sisters, Joanna and Esther, are entrusted with protecting their family's collection of magical books. These books hold incredible powers, allowing individuals to do extraordinary things. However, the sisters have been separated for years, with Esther seeking refuge in Antarctica and Joanna isolating herself in their Vermont home. When their father unexpectedly passes away while reading a mysterious book, the sisters must come together to safeguard their family's legacy. Along the way, they will uncover a world of magic that is both thrilling and perilous, and discover long-held secrets that have been hidden for centuries.
F.T. Lukens
Spell Bound
In "Spell Bound" by F.T. Lukens, Edison Rooker finds himself in the office of Antonia Hex, a powerful sorceress who runs a call center for magical emergencies. Despite lacking magical abilities, Rook is given a job and a new name by Antonia. His main goal is to regain access to the magical world he lost after his grandmother's death. Rook must also keep his illegal magical detection device, the Spell Binder, hidden from the Magical Consortium. Along the way, he encounters Sun, an apprentice to Antonia's rival colleague, Fable. As Rook and Sun face challenges and competition, they must join forces to rescue their mentors from the Consortium or risk losing their magic forever.
Foz Meadows
A Strange and Stubborn Endurance
In "A Strange and Stubborn Endurance" by Foz Meadows, Velasin vin Aaro finds himself in an unexpected situation when he is forced into a marriage with a man from a neighboring region. Both Vel and his new husband, Caethari Aeduria, must navigate the dangerous world of politics and an unknown enemy who wants to destroy their alliance. As they face these challenges, they also discover a deep love for each other.
Freya Marske
A Marvellous Light
"A Marvellous Light" by Freya Marske is a captivating book that follows the life of Robin Blyth. Robin is dealing with various challenges, including being a responsible older brother and managing the family estate. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he is mistakenly appointed as the liaison between the civil service and a hidden magical society. As Robin delves into this new world of magic, he must confront its beauty and dangers, including a deadly curse and unsettling visions of the future. To make matters more complicated, Robin must work alongside Edwin Courcey, a cold and difficult colleague who clearly wishes Robin was somewhere else. Together, they uncover a plot that threatens all magicians in the British Isles and a secret that has already cost lives to protect.
Freydís Moon
Three Kings
Three Kings by Freydís Moon is a heartwarming modern-day fairytale set in a cozy coastal town. Ethan Shaw, a lighthouse keeper and local witch, enjoys a peaceful life with his husband, Captain Peter Vásquez. However, their lives take an unexpected turn when Peter brings home a wounded seal named Nico Locke. As Ethan navigates his own insecurities and a newfound magical connection with Nico, their comfortable life begins to change. With the arrival of autumn and winter approaching, Ethan, Peter, and Nico explore the possibilities of a new relationship and the chance for a future together.
Gabe Cole Novoa
The Wicked Bargain
"The Wicked Bargain" by Gabe Cole Novoa is a thrilling adventure about Mar León de la Rosa, a young pirate with the ability to control fire and ice. On their sixteenth birthday, they are faced with a dangerous predicament when el Diablo, a powerful entity, demands the soul of Mar's father and their entire crew. Rescued by a remaining pirate crew, Mar is given a choice by el Diablo: sacrifice their soul to save their father or never see him again. With the help of unlikely allies, including an arrogant pirate named Bas and a mysterious gender-fluid demonio named Dami, Mar must decide whether to use their magic to save their loved ones or face certain death.
H.E. Edgmon
The Witch King
"The Witch King" by H.E. Edgmon is a captivating YA fantasy novel about Wyatt, a trans witch, who must confront his painful past and the fae prince he left behind in order to save a fae kingdom. Wyatt's engagement to Prince Emyr was meant to bring change, but after a tragic incident, Wyatt escaped to the human world. Now, Emyr has found him and insists they marry or risk losing the throne. Wyatt strikes a deal with his enemy to escape, but as he spends time with Emyr, he realizes that his feelings for him may still exist. With the worsening conditions for witches, Wyatt must make a difficult choice between his people and his freedom.
Hannah Kaner
Godkiller
In the book "Godkiller" by Hannah Kaner, readers are transported to a world filled with gods, monsters, soldiers, and mercenaries. Set in the kingdom of Middren, gods have been outlawed by the new king after a devastating war. Kissen, who witnessed her family's murder by a fire god, now works as a godkiller. However, everything changes when she is assigned to help a young noble girl who is bonded to a small god of white lies. Kissen is faced with a dilemma as killing the god would mean ending the girl's life as well. Alongside a disillusioned knight, the unlikely group embarks on a secret quest to the ruined city of Blenraden, where the remaining wild gods reside. As they face assassins, demons, and a growing civil war, they realize that something sinister is corrupting their world. They must confront this darkness and become the only hope to stop it.
Juno Dawson
Her Majesty’s Royal Coven
"Her Majesty's Royal Coven" by Juno Dawson is an exciting fantasy novel that combines elements of "A Discovery of Witches" and "The Craft." The story follows a group of childhood friends who are also witches. Set in a world where witches have played important roles throughout history, the book explores the lives of four women who took an oath to join the covert government department known as Her Majesty's Royal Coven. Decades later, the witch community is still recovering from a civil war, and the friends find themselves divided. As the reigning High Priestess, Helena must navigate the bureaucracy of HMRC, while her friends pursue their own paths. When a powerful warlock threatens the existence of HMRC, the friends must decide where their loyalties lie.
Kat Dunn
Bitterthorn
In the town of Blumwald, there is a castle in the wild wood that is home to a monstrous Witch. Every generation, she takes a companion who is never seen again. Mina, the daughter of the duke, is feeling sad and alone, with no hope for her future in Blumwald. When the Witch demands her next companion, Mina volunteers, not knowing what will happen to her. She finds herself trapped with the captivating Witch, and as she tries to uncover the fate of the previous companions, she becomes entangled in a dangerous secret that could either save her life or bring about her demise.
Kellen Graves
Prince of the Sorrows
In "Prince of the Sorrows" by Kellen Graves, Saffron, a changeling-baby, faces the possibility of being sent back to the human world if he doesn't obtain an academic endorsement. To achieve this, he forms a risky agreement with Prince Cylvan, a high fey, to find a spell that will strip power from Cylvan's true name. As Saffron navigates his self-taught literacy and growing affections for Cylvan, he becomes entangled in a dangerous power struggle and must decide what is most important to him.
Kyrie McCauley
All the Dead Lie Down
"All the Dead Lie Down" by Kyrie McCauley is a captivating thriller about Marin Blythe, who, after a tragic event, is offered a nanny position at Lovelace House, a coastal Maine estate. As Marin cares for Alice Lovelace's peculiar daughters, she becomes entangled in a web of strange occurrences and unsettling behavior. Marin must uncover the secrets of Lovelace House before they threaten her own safety.
Lana Kole
How Not to Date a Griffin
In "How Not to Date a Griffin" by Lana Kole, Nolan is in for a surprise when his rideshare turns out to be a griffin. Even more surprising is the fact that the griffin, named Reid, is incredibly attractive and invites Nolan on a tour of the city. However, as they spend the night together, they realize that Nolan is actually in town to present his father's hotel, which will be built on top of local businesses, including Reid's restaurant. With only one week to find a solution, Nolan and Reid must navigate their conflicting interests while also trying to keep their growing feelings for each other intact.
Leigh Bardugo
Six of Crows
In the book "Six of Crows" by Leigh Bardugo, the story takes place in Ketterdam, a bustling city where anything can be obtained for the right price. Kaz Brekker, a skilled criminal, is given the opportunity to participate in a dangerous heist that could make him incredibly wealthy. However, he cannot accomplish it alone. He assembles a team of six individuals, each with their own unique skills and backgrounds. Together, they must work together to complete an impossible mission that could save the world from destruction. But with their conflicting personalities and motivations, they may end up destroying each other before they can succeed.
Lili Wilkinson
A Hunger of Thorns
"A Hunger of Thorns" by Lili Wilkinson is a captivating book about Maude, a girl who grew up with magical abilities but lost them as she got older. She used to spend her time with her best friend Odette, creating stories of brave girls who defeated dragons and rescued princes. However, as they grew up, they drifted apart. Magic in their world has become weak and commercialized, with only superficial products available. When Odette goes missing after searching for forbidden magic, everyone believes she is dead except for Maude. With her storytelling skills, Maude is determined to find her friend in the ruins of Sicklehurst, an abandoned power plant built on top of a magical forest. However, no one knows what dangers lie within Sicklehurst, and every good story needs a monster.
Lily Mayne
Soul Eater
In the book "Soul Eater" by Lily Mayne, the world has been taken over by monsters, forcing humans to live in crowded and dirty cities while the rest of the country is a lawless wasteland. Wyn the Soul Eater is a terrifying creature who appears every three years to kill and drain humans. The protagonist, a young soldier, becomes part of a unit tasked with stopping and capturing the Soul Eater. When he is the only survivor of an encounter with the monster, he realizes that there is something about him that has caught the Soul Eater's attention.
Margaret Owen
Little Thieves
"Little Thieves" by Margaret Owen is a captivating retelling of "The Goose Girl" that tells the story of Vanja Schmidt, a young girl burdened by a debt she must repay. Vanja, the adopted goddaughter of Death and Fortune, decides to steal the life of Princess Gisele in order to reclaim her own future. Using an enchanted string of pearls, Vanja successfully takes Gisele's place and leads a double life as a princess and jewel thief. However, her plans take a dark turn when she incurs the wrath of a vengeful god and is cursed to turn into jewels. With just two weeks to break the curse and escape, Vanja must navigate dangerous obstacles, including a feral guardian, a sinister fiancé, and a determined detective.
Melissa Bashardoust
Girl, Serpent, Thorn
"Girl, Serpent, Thorn" by Melissa Bashardoust is a captivating tale about a princess who is cursed to be poisonous to the touch. Soraya has spent her life hidden away, isolated from her family, finding solace only in her gardens. However, as her twin brother's wedding approaches, Soraya must decide if she is willing to step out of the shadows for the first time. In her quest for freedom, she seeks the knowledge held by a demon imprisoned in the dungeon below. Meanwhile, she also encounters a young man who sees her for who she truly is, beyond her poisonous exterior. As Soraya's choices lead to unexpected consequences, she begins to question her identity and whether she is more human or monster, princess or demon.
Melissa Blair
A Broken Blade
"A Broken Blade" by Melissa Blair is a gripping tale about Keera, a skilled spy and assassin known as the King's Blade. When a mysterious figure called the Shadow threatens the kingdom, Keera is tasked with hunting them down. However, her journey takes her into the magical lands of the Fae, where she discovers shocking truths about her enemies and the king who destroyed her people. As Keera searches for answers, she is haunted by a promise she made, which will put her and an entire kingdom to the ultimate test.
Meng Xi Shi
Thousand Autumns: Qian Qiu
"Thousand Autumns: Qian Qiu" by Meng Xi Shi is a captivating book that explores the question of whether a pure heart can be corrupted. The story follows Yan Wushi, the leader of the demonic Huanyue sect, who believes that every human heart is cruel and selfish. When he encounters Shen Qiao, the humble leader of the Daoist sect, who is known for his kindness and generosity, Yan Wushi sees an opportunity to prove his philosophy. After Shen Qiao suffers a devastating loss, Yan Wushi takes him under his wing, intending to test his faith and lead him into the dark path of demonic cultivation.
Mò Xiāng Tóng Xiù
Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation: Mo Dao Zu Shi
"The Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation: Mo Dao Zu Shi" by Mò Xiāng Tóng Xiù is an epic tale that reaches its thrilling conclusion in this book. The story revolves around a final showdown at the Guanyin Temple, where enemies, allies, and a powerful corpse come together. As long-held secrets are revealed and plans are exposed, the fate of the cultivation world and a love story that spans lifetimes hangs in the balance. Additionally, the book includes eight short stories that explore both the past and the future, taking readers on a journey from dawn to dusk and beyond. T
Moniquill Blackgoose
To Shape a Dragon’s Breath
"To Shape a Dragon's Breath" by Moniquill Blackgoose is a captivating story set on the remote island of Masquapaug. Fifteen-year-old Anequs discovers a dragon's egg and forms a special bond with the hatchling. While her people are thrilled by this rare occurrence, the Anglish conquerors have different ideas about how dragons should be raised. Reluctantly, they allow Anequs to attend an Anglish dragon school, where she faces numerous challenges due to her lack of formal education and different background. However, Anequs is determined to learn and help her dragon, refusing to conform to societal expectations. As Anequs and her dragon come of age, they realize that they have the power to bring about change in the world.
Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah
Chain-Gang All-Stars
"Chain-Gang All-Stars" by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah is a gripping novel set in a future where prisoners compete in death-matches for their freedom. Loretta Thurwar and Hamara "Hurricane Staxxx" Stacker are the beloved stars of this controversial program. As Thurwar plans her own escape, she also tries to find a way to protect the humanity of her fellow prisoners. However, the powerful corporate owners of the program will do whatever it takes to maintain their control.
Natasha Siegel
Solomon’s Crown
Solomon's Crown by Natasha Siegel is a captivating historical romance set in twelfth-century Europe. The story revolves around two rival kings, King Philip of France and King Henry of England, who unexpectedly fall deeply in love. As they navigate the complexities of their forbidden relationship, they must also confront the looming threat of war and the challenges of maintaining their thrones. This epic tale of love, ambition, and betrayal explores the difficult choices faced by these real-life kings as they struggle to balance their personal desires with their duty to their kingdoms.
Nina Varela
Crier’s War
Crier's War by Nina Varela is a captivating book set in a kingdom called Rabu. After a devastating war, the Automae, who were originally created to serve the royals, took control of the kingdom and oppressed the human population. Ayla, a human servant, is determined to seek revenge for her family's death by assassinating Lady Crier, the daughter of the sovereign. However, as Crier begins to question her own role and discovers the truth about her father, she forms an unexpected connection with Ayla. With tensions rising and a new threat emerging, Crier and Ayla realize that their only chance at love may be through fighting for their freedom.
Olivie Blake
The Atlas Six
"The Atlas Six" by Olivie Blake is a captivating book about a secret society called the Alexandrian Society. Every ten years, only six exceptionally talented magicians are chosen to join this prestigious society, promising a life of power and prestige. However, the cost of membership is high, and the six newest recruits must navigate dangerous enemies and potential betrayal from their closest allies. As they fight for their place in the society, they soon realize that not all of them will make it through the year.
Rick Riordan, Mark Oshiro
The Sun and the Star: A Nico di Angelo Adventure
"The Sun and the Star: A Nico di Angelo Adventure" by Rick Riordan and Mark Oshiro is an exciting book that follows the demigods Nico di Angelo and Will Solace on a thrilling quest. Nico, the son of Hades, has faced many challenges in his life, but with his boyfriend Will by his side, they have always overcome them. However, when Nico starts hearing a voice from Tartarus, he knows he must go on a dangerous mission to rescue his friend Bob. Despite the objections of Mr. D and Chiron, Nico and Will embark on this quest together. Can they survive the darkest part of the Underworld? And what does the prophecy mean for Nico's future?
Rochelle Hassan
The Buried and the Bound
"The Buried and the Bound" by Rochelle Hassan is a captivating fantasy novel set in the magical town of Blackthorn, Massachusetts. Aziza El-Amin, the only hedgewitch in town, has always dealt with magical creatures and mishaps. However, when a dark entity emerges from the forest, the line between the human world and fairyland becomes blurred, leading to dangerous consequences. Leo Merritt, who has lost his memories of his true love, joins forces with Aziza to break a curse. Together, they must face the creature in the woods and rely on the help of a mysterious necromancer. As they fight to save their hometown, they uncover hidden secrets and must make difficult choices.
Rou Bao Bu Chi Rou
The Husky and His White Cat Shizun: Erha He Ta De Bai Mao Shizun
"The Husky and His White Cat Shizun: Erha He Ta De Bai Mao Shizun" by Rou Bao Bu Chi Rou is a captivating story about hidden truths and buried hearts. Mo Ran, now reborn, struggles to understand his past self and the teacher he once despised, Chu Wanning. As the emperor of the mortal realm, Mo Ran harbors deep hatred for Chu Wanning, but in this life, Chu Wanning has repeatedly sacrificed himself for Mo Ran's sake. However, as the day of Chu Wanning's ultimate betrayal approaches, Mo Ran is determined to prevent history from repeating itself. Unexpected tragedies unfold, forcing Mo Ran and Chu Wanning to work together to uncover the identity of a mysterious mastermind who seems to know more about Mo Ran than he himself remembers.
Ryka Aoki
Light from Uncommon Stars
"Light from Uncommon Stars" by Ryka Aoki tells the story of Shizuka Satomi, who made a deal with the devil to save herself from damnation. She must convince seven violin prodigies to trade their souls for success, and she has already succeeded with six. When she discovers Katrina Nguyen, a talented transgender runaway, Shizuka believes she has found her final candidate. However, she also meets Lan Tran, a retired starship captain and mother of four, who may hold the key to breaking the curse. As their lives intertwine, a tale of magic, identity, curses, and hope unfolds, revealing the importance of family and the power of small acts of kindness.
Saara El-Arifi
The Final Strife
"The Final Strife" by Saara El-Arifi is a captivating book that takes place in a world divided by blood. Red represents the elite and control, blue represents the poor and resistance, and clear represents the slaves and the invisible. The story follows Sylah, who dreams of sparking a revolution to free the empire from the tyranny of the red-blooded ruling class. However, her dreams are shattered when her family is brutally murdered. Anoor, who has always been considered a disappointment by her powerful mother, crosses paths with Sylah and a passionate connection ignites between them. Hassa, who knows the struggles of being invisible, joins forces with Sylah and Anoor, and together they become a force to be reckoned with. As the empire holds trials to find new leaders, the stage is set for bloodshed, power shifts, and the burning of cities.
Samantha Shannon
The Priory of the Orange Tree
"The Priory of the Orange Tree" by Samantha Shannon is a captivating fantasy novel set in a world torn apart by conflict. In the queendom of Inys, Queen Sabran the Ninth must find a way to protect her realm from destruction by conceiving a daughter, but assassins are closing in on her. Ead Duryan, a lady-in-waiting, secretly uses forbidden magic to protect the queen. On the other side of the sea, Tané, a dragonrider, is faced with a difficult decision that could unravel her life. As the East and West remain divided and chaos looms, the ancient enemy of the queendom begins to awaken.
Sarah Underwood
Lies We Sing to the Sea
"Lies We Sing to the Sea" by Sarah Underwood is a captivating novel that tells the story of Leto, a young woman condemned to death by the city of Ithaca. However, instead of dying, Leto finds herself on a mysterious island where she meets a girl named Melantho who possesses the power to control the sea. Melantho reveals that one more death can prevent a thousand, and in order to save everyone, the prince of Ithaca must be sacrificed.
Shelley Parker-Chan
She Who Became the Sun
"She Who Became the Sun" by Shelley Parker-Chan is a captivating historical fiction set in 14th century China. In a village plagued by famine, two siblings are given contrasting destinies - the boy is destined for greatness while the girl is destined for nothingness. When tragedy strikes and the boy dies, the girl takes on his identity and enters a monastery to escape her own fate. Determined to survive, she discovers her own strength and is willing to do whatever it takes to stay hidden. As the rebellion against Mongol rule gains momentum, she seizes the opportunity to claim her brother's abandoned greatness and forge her own future.
Tamsyn Muir
Gideon the Ninth
Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir is an exciting science fantasy novel set in a solar system filled with swordplay, political intrigue, and lesbian necromancers. The story follows Gideon, a swordswoman who is tired of dealing with undead creatures. She decides to escape her life of servitude and avoid becoming a reanimated corpse. However, her plans are disrupted when she is forced to serve her childhood nemesis, Harrowhark, in a deadly trial. Harrowhark needs Gideon's sword to succeed and save their House from destruction.
Thomas D. Lee
Perilous Times
"Perilous Times" by Thomas D. Lee is a captivating book that tells the story of Sir Kay, an immortal defender of the realm who is tired of his never-ending battles. In a world where everything has changed, including rising oceans and a privatized army, Kay finds himself facing a new challenge. Alongside Mariam, a woman fighting against a broken system, they uncover a magical plot of apocalyptic proportions. As they navigate this dangerous land, they must find a true leader to save the realm. With Excalibur within reach, the question remains: who will be worthy of wielding it?
