A fresh take on Medusa’s story, full of exquisite feminine rage. Stone Blind offers a strong rebuttal to the narrative of heroic Persues, killing the monstrous Medusa who can turn any living being to stone with just a glance. Weaving together various pieces of Greek mythology that lead to this inevitable end, Natalie Haynes creates a riveting tale of injustice endured again and again.
-Reviewed by Jess
As international governments scramble to respond to the internet livestreams of an alien spacecraft landing in Lagos, Nigeria, an unlikely set of people—a scientist, a rapper, and a soldier, among others—become entangled in world-altering events. Okorafor blends distinct, engrossing character voices, an eye for scene-setting detail, and genuinely alien aliens for an exciting, thought-provoking first contact story.
-Reviewed by Lauren
When Ivan the Terrible threatens all of Russia, half-mortal healer and witch Yaga must leave her secluded home in order to protect the humans she holds dear. But Ivan is not the only threat, and Yaga must learn to embrace her divinity as well as her mortality. This is a grand epic battle of gods and men, and at the same time a moving story of love and motherhood. This mix of Russian history and Slavic folklore is a must read.
-Reviewed by Breanna
If you are looking for your next epic fantasy adventure, pick up The Art of Prophecy. Extraordinary martial arts back-dropped by breathtaking scenery in a world inspired by ancient Asia. It's got just the right mix of action, drama and humor and is completely unique in a well-loved genre.
-Reviewed by Barrie
Kingfisher’s haunting fantasy follows Mara, not quite a princess and not quite a nun, as she attempts the impossible to free her older sister from marriage to an abusive prince. Accompanied by witches, fairy godmothers, and a very good dog made of bones, Mara must find the courage to save her sister and free her kingdom.
-Reviewed by Bailyn
The Stardust Thief is simultaneously a thrilling and dangerous quest for a magic relic and a beautiful, lyrical story about found family and inner demons. While reading, I was transported to the desert land filled with jinn magic and could not read fast enough. Inspired by One Thousand and One Nights, this is the kind of storytelling you’ll want to luxuriate in.
-Reviewed by Breanna
Dragon riders done differently. After bonding with a dragon hatchling, Anequs is forced to attend a colonizer-run school, where the Anglish make no secret of their disapproval—if Anequs can’t assimilate and pass her exams, her dragon will be killed. Written by an Indigenous author, this is an inventive fantasy with captivating magic, a fascinating steampunk era world, and a humbling perspective on colonization.
-Reviewed by Breanna
Sometimes books come along and hit all the right notes at just the right time. I read this while socially isolating, and I was swept away by Addie's story and Schwab's gorgeous writing. Addie is a young girl aching to be free in 1700s France, who makes a deal with a mysterious figure. She is free to do and be who she likes — but she is forgotten by everyone she meets. Epic, romantic, tragic, and moving, this book is a treasure.
-Reviewed by Julia
In this sci-fi dystopia, the solar system has been colonized by humans, but is ruled as a caste of colors—gold on top, red on bottom. When his wife is executed for performing a forbidden song, Darrow, a red, must infiltrate the gold society to overthrow the corrupt society. It’s got a hunger-games like plot with a lyrical style, high-octane action, suspenseful intrigue, and a lead who is not just rage but also heart.
-Reviewed by Travis
Inspired by Chinese myth, Xingyin is the secret daughter of the imprisoned moon goddess, Chang'e. Determined to free her mother, our bold and driven heroine sets off on epic quests through a full and beautiful fantasy world, finding a gentle prince and a badass, magic bow along the way. If you're like me and want more epic fantasy written by women, you must absolutely be swept up in this dazzling, gorgeous adventure.
-Reviewed by Breanna
Silvia Moreno Garcia's take on the classic genre introduces a whole new understanding of what gothic literature can be. Her characters are brand new in a world that is old and unforgiving. The anti-colonizing message in the story adds a social context to a fantastical world. This tale is dark and moody but if you stick with the gloom, the story gives you a twisted pay off in the end.
-Reviewed by Acy
Young nobleman Robin Blythe is shocked to find his new government job is that of a liaison to the secret magical society of England. Now Robin and his magical counterpart, Edwin Courcey, must race against time to uncover a conspiracy that places the whole of English magical society in danger. It’s a truly enjoyable historical fantasy adventure with a dash of queer history and a compelling ensemble cast.
-Reviewed by Bailyn
Love fantasy? Want something light and comforting that won’t stress you out? You need Legends and Lattes, the coziest of cozy fantasies. Orc and retired mercenary Viv decides to hang up her sword and start the first coffee shop in the quiet village of Thune—despite the fact that no one’s ever heard of this thing called coffee. This delightful read will leave you content and craving a hot beverage and cinnamon roll.
-Reviewed by Breanna
Now into her middle age, the infamous pirate Amina al-Sirafi came out of retirement only for a simple job. She didn’t want to fight demons, murderous sorcerers, sea monsters, and especially not her hell of an ex-husband. This swashbuckling tale, full of heart and snark, is a fantastic blend of adventure, history, and fantasy. Escape into this book and let Amina tell you, in her own irreverent words, how she became a legend.
-Reviewed by Breanna
