15 Reader Recommendations for Fantasy/Urban Fantasy Featuring Diverse Characters
Hey there fellow readers and writers! Get ready to embark on an incredible journey through the realms of fantasy and urban fantasy, where diverse characters and cultures take center stage. I’ve put together a list of 15 reader recommendations that I have added to my TBR (to be read) list. These stories celebrate the power of diversity and resilience, and promise epic quests, enchanting romances, and thrilling supernatural escapades that will keep readers hooked from page one. So, grab a cozy blanket, brew your favorite cup of tea, and try one of these online reader favorites. What do you think of each of these titles?
The Jasmine Throne by Tasha Suri
In The Jasmine Throne, Tasha Suri weaves a mesmerizing tale of politics, power, and forbidden love in a world inspired by the history and culture of ancient India. As a captive princess, Malini is determined to reclaim her rightful place on the throne, while Priya, a maidservant with a secret past, finds herself drawn into a dangerous game of power and desire. With lush prose and intricate world-building, this epic fantasy is a captivating exploration of love, betrayal, and the struggle for freedom in a world ripe with political intrigue and magical forces.
The Wolf of Oren-Yaro by KS Villoso
In The Wolf of Oren-Yaro, KS Villoso paints a vivid portrait of a fierce queen determined to protect her kingdom at all costs. Queen Talyien, known as the Bitch Queen, must navigate treacherous lands, political machinations, and personal betrayals as she embarks on a perilous journey to reconcile with her estranged husband and secure the future of her people. With complex characters, gripping action, and a richly imagined world, this dark and gripping epic fantasy is a thrilling exploration of leadership, sacrifice, and the resilience of a queen who refuses to be broken.
Range of Ghosts by Elizabeth Bear
Range of Ghosts, by Elizabeth Bear, invites readers into a breathtaking world where empires clash, ancient powers awaken, and destinies are shaped. In a setting inspired by the steppes of Central Asia, we follow the journey of Temur, a once-prince turned fugitive, and Samarkar, a princess turned wizard. As they traverse a landscape teeming with nomadic tribes, terrifying creatures, and warring factions, they must confront their own demons and forge unlikely alliances to stand against a formidable enemy. With lyrical prose, intricate world-building, and a backdrop of myth and magic, this epic fantasy sweeps readers into a realm where the boundaries between dream and reality begin to blur.
The Stone in the Skull by Elizabeth Bear
In The Stone in the Skull, Elizabeth Bear whisks readers away to a mesmerizing world inspired by the cultures and landscapes of the Silk Road. As the Gage, an automaton known as The Brass Man, and the Gage’s human employer, the Dead Man, journey through a land teetering on the brink of war, they become embroiled in the machinations of rulers and sorcerers vying for power. Meanwhile, in a distant city, a young woman named Mrithuri holds a glimmering stone that may herald the salvation or doom of the land. With richly textured prose, diverse characters, and a tapestry of magical and political intrigue, this captivating fantasy adventure unfolds in a world where ancient traditions clash with emerging forces, and the fate of an entire realm hangs in the balance.
The Broken Crown by Michelle West
The Broken Crown, by Michelle West, takes readers on an epic journey through a realm gripped by ancient prophecies and deadly conflicts. In a world where magic intertwines with political intrigue, a young noblewoman named Jewel is thrust into a dangerous game of power and survival as she navigates the treacherous halls of the High Court. With the fate of her land hanging in the balance, Jewel must unlock the mysterious powers of the Sun Sword and unite disparate factions to stop a malevolent force hell-bent on destroying everything she holds dear. With intricate world-building, complex characters, and a gripping plot, The Broken Crown is a captivating blend of fantasy, adventure, and high-stakes drama that will leave readers eagerly turning the pages in search of the ultimate triumph.
Empress of Salt and Fortune by Nghi Vo
In Empress of Salt and Fortune, Nghi Vo weaves a mesmerizing tale that introduces readers to a world of political intrigue, mysterious histories, and forgotten voices. As the ambitious Empress In-yo’s rule comes to an end, her handmaiden, Chih, embarks on a journey to chronicle the secrets and legends hidden within the palace walls. Unveiling the untold stories of powerful women, forgotten alliances, and hidden treasures, Chih encounters the enigmatic and cunning old woman Rabbit, whose memories hold the key to shaping the empire’s future. With lyrical prose and a captivating narrative structure, Empress of Salt and Fortune is a beautiful exploration of power, memory, and the enduring stories that shape our collective destiny.
The Golem and the Jinni by Helene Wecker
In The Golem and the Jinni, Helene Wecker transports readers to the bustling streets of 19th-century New York City, where two mystical beings find themselves unexpectedly bound by fate. Chava, a golem crafted from clay and brought to life by a grieving rabbi, and Ahmad, a jinni released from a copper flask, navigate the challenges of existence in a city teeming with human desires and troubles. As they grapple with their own inner conflicts and unearthly natures, their intertwined destinies lead them on a captivating journey, weaving together elements of folklore, love, and identity in a rich tapestry of storytelling. With vivid historical detail and a touch of enchantment, The Golem and the Jinni captivates readers with its poignant exploration of friendship, longing, and the timeless quest to find one’s place in a world filled with wonder and complexity.
The City of Brass by S.A. Chakraborty
S.A. Chakraborty conjures an enchanting world of magic and mystery in The City of Brass. Follow Nahri, a skilled and cunning thief in 18th-century Cairo, as a con gone wrong thrusts her into a perilous journey through the mythical city of Daevabad. Unbeknownst to Nahri, she possesses hidden powers that attract the attention of mystical beings and ancient forces seeking to control her destiny. As she navigates treacherous politics and discovers her own true heritage, Nahri becomes entangled in a web of djinn royalty, political intrigue, and dangerous alliances. With lush descriptions, complex characters, and a captivating blend of Middle Eastern folklore and historical fiction, The City of Brass is a thrilling adventure that explores the power of identity, the clash of civilizations, and the struggle for freedom in a world on the brink of chaos.
Son of a Trickster by Eden Robinson
In Son of a Trickster by Eden Robinson, meet Jared, a sixteen-year-old with a knack for trouble and a complicated family history. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Pacific Northwest, this darkly funny and captivating novel follows Jared as he navigates the challenges of adolescence, confronts his family’s dark secrets, and grapples with supernatural forces that threaten to upend his world. With its blend of gritty realism and mythical elements, Son of a Trickster invites readers to immerse themselves in a compelling coming-of-age story that deftly weaves the mundane with the magical.
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo invites readers into the heart of Ketterdam, a bustling city filled with danger, intrigue, and a motley crew of criminals. Led by the audacious and cunning Kaz Brekker, this band of misfits embarks on a high-stakes heist that could change their lives forever. Each with their own unique skills and secrets, these six outcasts must navigate treacherous landscapes, face their darkest fears, and come together to pull off the impossible. With its rich world-building, complex characters, and thrilling twists, Six of Crows will keep readers on the edge of their seats, craving more with every turn of the page.
Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
In a ruthless world divided by oppression and violence, Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir introduces readers to Laia, a young woman who risks everything to save her family. As her brother is taken captive by the brutal Empire, Laia finds herself drawn into a dangerous revolution, where she must navigate a treacherous path and make heart-wrenching choices. Amidst the chaos, Elias, a soldier who dreams of freedom, becomes entangled with Laia, uncovering secrets that could change the fate of their world. With its gripping storytelling, intricate plot twists, and compelling characters, Ember in the Ashes immerses readers in a high-stakes battle for survival, where courage and resilience are tested in the face of overwhelming darkness.
This Woven Kingdom by Tahereh Mafi
In This Woven Kingdom by Tahereh Mafi, readers are transported to a world where magic and science collide in unexpected ways. At the heart of the story is Soraya, a gifted scientist who has been betrayed by those she trusted most. Desperate for revenge, she sets out on a perilous journey to a forbidden kingdom, where she discovers secrets that could change the course of history. Along the way, Soraya must confront her fears and the painful memories of her past, even as a handsome prince turns her world upside down. With its richly imagined world-building, complex plot, and vivid characters, This Woven Kingdom is an unforgettable tale of love, betrayal, and the courage it takes to chart one’s own destiny.
Bear Necessities by Dana Marie Bell
In Bear Necessities by Dana Marie Bell, prepare to be swept away into a world where shifters and humans coexist, and love knows no bounds. When Harper moves to the quaint town of Green Cove Springs, she never expected to stumble upon a community of bear shifters. Caught in a dangerous web of secrets and deception, Harper finds herself irresistibly drawn to Evan, a brooding and protective bear shifter. As their connection deepens, Harper becomes embroiled in a centuries-old conflict that threatens to tear their newfound love apart. With its enticing blend of romance, action, and supernatural intrigue, Bear Necessities invites readers to embark on a thrilling journey filled with passion, danger, and the magic of true love.
Demon Moon by Meljean Brook takes readers on an exhilarating journey to a world where demons and humans collide in an epic clash of power. When Victoria, a skilled hunter, crosses paths with a charismatic and enigmatic demon, her life is forever changed. As the veil between realms grows thin and ancient forces awaken, Victoria must navigate treacherous alliances, decipher cryptic clues, and confront her own dark past. In a battle against sinister forces, she discovers the true nature of love, sacrifice, and the strength within herself. With its immersive world-building, steamy romance, and pulse-pounding action, Demon Moon is an irresistible urban fantasy that will leave readers craving more of its thrilling twists and heart-pounding suspense.
Walking in Fire by Cathryn Cade
Walking in Fire by Cathryn Cade takes readers on a scorching journey filled with passion, danger, and otherworldly encounters. In a world where the realms of Earth and the Elemental Dimension collide, Ember, a talented fire dancer, finds herself caught in the crosshairs of an ancient prophecy. Drawn to a mysterious man named Pytheios, whose touch ignites a fiery connection, Ember must navigate a treacherous path where forbidden desires intertwine with supernatural powers. As they confront ancient evils and unravel the secrets of their shared past, Ember and Pytheios forge a bond that can save both worlds—or destroy everything they hold dear. With its sizzling romance, electrifying magic, and pulse-pounding adventure, Walking in Fire is a captivating paranormal romance that will leave readers burning for more.
Tricia M Foster 