It's been about six years since I began to read science fiction and fantasy again, after a long stretch between High School and Law School where I barely read any books at all. And if you follow me on twitter, you may have seen me occasionally post pictures of my spreadsheet of books read, which is now over 800 books long. So I figured it was about time I posted a list of the books that I've read that I think people absolutely SHOULD read, if they haven't already.
This list is of course only my opinion, and even for my opinion is not meant to be an exclusive list - it also errs on the side of more recent than older books, because that's what I read. I will also include together series as a single work on this list, unless books in a series are clearly stand-alone and worthy of reading in and of themselves - and if I do choose a series, I'll highlight which entries in particular are worth your time. If I've reviewed the books on this blog, I'll link the reviews, but otherwise, this will not be a post of deep thoughts, just the names of books and a quick list of subcategories those books belong to and themes contained within.
Okay enough disclaimers, let's start. These books are in no particular order. Also please note that the number of themes/subgenres listed for each book has nothing to do with how good each book is:
1. Annihilation by Jeff VanderMeer
Subgenres and Themes: SciFi/Ecological Horror/Issues of Humanity, All Women Team of Scientists in an Unknown Area, Corporate vs Individual Interests.
2. The Inheritance Trilogy by NK Jemisin
(The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms, The Broken Kingdoms, The Kingdom of Gods) Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy, Romantic Elements (LGBTQ at times), Dealing with Oppression, Racism, Empire and its Aftermath
3. The Craft Sequence by Max Gladstone
(Particularly: Three Parts Dead, Full Fathom Five, Four Roads Cross, Ruin of Angels (Reviewed here))
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy/SciFi Hybrid, Law and Economics as Magic, Dealing with the Power of People Coming Together for Greater Good against the Power Hungry and Greedy.
4. Amatka by Karin Tidbeck (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Dystopian SciFi, Oppressive Governments, and Dealing With the Power of Language to Control.
5. Elysium by Jennifer Marie Brissett (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Dystopian SciFi, Love, Memory, Grief and History in the face of Oppression, Colonization and Destruction.
6. Tess of the Road by Rachel Hartman (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Young Adult Fantasy, Coming of Age, Road Journey, Recovery from Sexual Abuse/Rape, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
7. The Broken Earth Trilogy by NK Jemisin
(The Fifth Season, The Obelisk Gate, The Stone Sky (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Dystopian Hybrid SF/F, Dealing with Cycles of Oppression, Racial Hatred, and Abuse.
8. Swordheart by T Kingfisher (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy Romance, Very Comedic Dialogue, Middle Aged Widow with Ages Old Warrior as Romantic Interests, Obnoxious Religious Orders, Really Fun and Righteous Priest/Lawyers, Man stuck inside a Sword, Humorous Use of The Scientific Method
9. Dominion of the Fallen by Aliette de Bodard
(Particularly books 2-3, The House of Binding Thorns (Reviewed Here), The House of Sundering Flames (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Post-War Fantasy, Dealing with Themes of Colonization, Empire, and of Power and the duty it imposes on its holder towards those without it.
10. The Traitor Baru Cormorant by Seth Dickinson
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy, LGBTQ Romance and Oppression/Homophobia, Dealing with Empire and Colonization through Trade and Cultural Power.
11. The Arcadia Project by Mishell Baker
(Particularly Books 2-3, Phantom Pains (Reviewed Here) and Impostor Syndrome (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Fae Fantasy, Protagonist with Mental Illness (BPD) and Physical Disability, LGBTQ Romance, Self-Growth
12. The Tiger's Daughter by K Arsenault Rivera (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy (F-F) Romance, East-Asian inspired world, Steppe Nomads, Epic Fantasy Plot.
13. Parable of the Sower/Parable of the Talents by Octavia Butler
Subgenres and Themes: Dystopian SciFi, Dealing with Racial/Religious Oppression, Near-Future America.
14. Legendborn by Tracy Deonn (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Young Adult Modern Fantasy, Arthurian Legend, Dealing with Loss of a Loved One, White Privilege, Systemic Racism, Modern Effects of Historic Racism.
15. Tigerman by Nick Harkaway (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Superhero (sorta) Science Fiction, Satirical Take on Colonialism/Imperialism, Manmade Environmental Disasters.
16. The Thessaly Trilogy by Jo Walton
(Particularly, Book 3: Necessity)
Subgenres and Themes: Philosophical SF/F hybrid, Gods and Men, Love, People and what makes a Just Society.
17. In Other Lands by Sarah Rees Brennan (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Young Adult Portal Fantasy, Coming of Age, LGBTQ Romance and Sexual Experiences, Fantasy School, Found Family, Dealing with Conflicts Peacefully instead of through Violence.
18. Jaran by Kate Elliott
(Particularly Books 1-3, Jaran, An Earthly Crown, and His Conquering Sword)
Subgenres and Themes: SciFi Romance, Steppe Nomads, Issues of Power, Gender Dynamics.
19. Terra Nullius by Claire G. Coleman (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Dystopian SciFi, Themes of Colonization/Imperialism, Treatment of Indigenous Populations by Colonizers.
20. The Space Between Worlds by Micaiah Johnson (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: SciFi, Mad-Max like World, Multiversal Travel, Themes of Class, Race, and Inequality, and Wealth Exploitation.
21. Queen of the Conquered by Kacen Callender (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Slavery, White Supremacy, World based upon Dutch Virgin Island Plantations, Mixed-Race Heritage, The Costs of Power in Empire.
Trigger Warnings: Rape and Torture
21. Rosewater by Tade Thompson
Subgenres and Themes: Alien Invasion/First Contact in Future Nigeria, Homophobia and Dystopia, Psychic Powers, Questions about the Values of Humanity
22. This is How You Lose The Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Novella, Epistolary Time Travel F-F Romance, Conflicts across Parallel Worlds and Timelines, Biotechnology vs Machine Technology.
23. The Only Harmless Great Thing by Brooke Bolander (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Novelette, Alternate History Combining Two Historical Tragedies, Failure to Learn From Past Horrific Mistakes.
24. The Dandelion Dynasty by Ken Liu
(The Grace of Kings and The Wall of Storms)
Subgenres and Themes: Silkpunk - East Asian/Chinese Inspired Epic Fantasy with Technology deriving from Historic Asian Tech, Wide Sprawling Epic, Class and Cultural Conflicts, Battles of Brain, Brawn, and Trickery.
25. The Privilege of the Sword by Ellen Kushner (Reviewed Here)
(Also, to a lesser extent, the book's predecessor, Swordspoint)
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy of Manners, Dueling Swords(wo)men, The Importance of Choosing One's Own Path, Queer and Straight Romance, Bisexual Heroine.
Trigger Warning: Rape.
26. Savage Legion by Matt Wallace (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Multi-POV Epic Fantasy, Utopia/Dystopia, Empire and Those it Deems Unnecessary, Class Conflict, Manipulated Histories, Forever Wars and Conflicts.
27. Trouble The Saints by Alaya Dawn Johnson (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Alternate History with Magic - 1940s New York City, Racism (Anti-Black, Anti-Brown, Anti-Mixed), Passing, Trying to Find Happiness and Love in a World of Oppression.
28. The Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells (First Novella Reviewed Here)
(Novellas: All Systems Red, Artificial Condition, Rogue Protocol, Exit Strategy, Fugitive Telemetry; Novel: Network Effect).
Subgenres and Themes: Introverted/Awkward Artificial Being Hero learning About Friendship, Family and Caring About People; Sardonic/Sarcastic and Hilarious Protagonist Inner Dialogue, Corporate Dystopian SciFi Universe, Fun Action Scenes.
29. An Unkindness of Ghosts by Rivers Solomon (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Slavery and Racism on a Generation Ship, Plantation Life, Struggling for a Better Tomorrow, Queer Protagonist, Autistic Protagonist.
Trigger Warning: Rape, Abuse, Physical Beatings, as parts of Slavery; Also Homophobia.
30. The Summer Prince by Alaya Dawn Johnson (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: YA, Post-Apocalyptic Dystopia/Utopia, Class-Struggle, Conflict Between Generations, Power of Art, Power of Sacrifice, Impostor Syndrome, Conflicts of Love and Friendship.
31. The Hero and the Crown by Robin McKinley (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: YA, Girl Princess Slaying Dragons, Charming Optimistic Ending, Multiple Non-Rivalrous Love Interests.
32. The Salvagers Trilogy by Alex White
(Particularly Book 2, A Bad Deal for the Whole Galaxy (Reviewed Here) and Book 3, The Worst of All Possible Worlds (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Space Opera, F-F Romance, Found Family, Hilarious Witter Banter, Sardonic Co-Protagonist, Battle Against Greedy Power-Hungry Rich People, Sci-Fi Magic System.
33. The Black Parade Trilogy by Kyoko M.
(The Black Parade (Reviewed Here), She Who Fights Monsters (Reviewed Here), The Holy Dark (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: "Trashy" Paranormal Romance/Urban Fantasy featuring Christian Mythology. Human/Archangel Romance, Black/Latina Heroine, Angels vs Demons, Snarky Heroine.
34. The Empire of Storms Trilogy by Jon Skovron
(Hope and Red, Bane and Shadow, Blood and Tempest (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy featuring Pirates/Street Thugs/Battling Monks/Biomages/Spies etc, Very Funny Comedy Parts, Snarky Protagonist, Romance, Class and Gender Issues
35. Machineries of Empire Trilogy by Yoon Ha Lee
(Ninefox Gambit, Raven Stratagem (Reviewed Here), Revenant Gun (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Empire and Colonialism, Cultural Suppression, Space Opera, Mathematics Based World, Dealing The Importance of Free Will and Choice, Queer Protagonists, Magnificent Bastards and Supergeniuses.
36. Vita Nostra by Sergey and Marina Dyachenko (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Translated Weird Fantasy, "Magic" School, Abusive Teachers, Strange Esoteric and Incomprehensible Teachings, The Power of Language, Dealing with Parents Re-Marrying, Overcoming Fear to Assert One's Identity.
37. The Genie Lo Duology by F.C. Yee
(The Epic Crush of Genie Lo (Reviewed Here), The Iron Will of Genie Lo (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Young Adult Urban Fantasy, Chinese Mythology/Journey to the West, High School and Looking at Colleges, Dealing with Dual lives of Superheroism and Growing Up.
38. The Old Lie by Claire G. Coleman (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Space Opera, Repeating of Atrocities Towards Indigenous Cultures, Forever War, Abuse of Soldiers and their Families, Transporting of Historical Atrocities into SciFi World.
39. A Brightness Long Ago by Guy Gavriel Kay (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Historically Inspired by Renaissance Low-Fantasy, Chance-Encounter Romance, Feuding Noble Lords/Mercenary Troupes, Protagonist Stumbling Around the World Making History.
40. The Bird King by G Willow Wilson (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Muslim Concubine and Gay Man fleeing The Fall of Granada, Fantasy featuring Muslim Mythology, The Importance of Faith and Having No Doubts, Search for Freedom for Peoples of All Cultures.
41. The Saint of Steel Series by T Kingfisher
(Book 1: Paladin's Grace (Reviewed Here), Book 2: Paladin's Strength (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Comedic Fantasy Romances, Paladin Romances, Introvert Love Interests (Book 1), Super Strong Couple (Book 2), Sex in Odd Places, Fun Fantasy Setting featuring some Horrifying Monsters in the Background, Hilarious Dialogue and Situations.
42. Chilling Effect Series by Valerie Valdes
(Book 1: Chilling Effect (Reviewed Here), Book 2: Prime Deceptions (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Space Opera Comedy, Lots of Subtle Geek References, Latina Heroine, Secret Agents and Crime Syndicates, Psychic Cats, Mass Effect-Inspired Universe, Family Issues, Tons of Laughs.
43. War Girls by Tochi Onyebuchi (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: SciFi Version of Real Life Atrocities - The Nigerian/Biafran Civil War, Giant Mecha, Two Sisters Torn Apart By War Ending Up On Opposing Sides, Tragic Pasts and Endings.
Trigger Warning: War Atrocities, Children Taken From Killed Parents in War, Indoctrination.
44. Each of Us a Desert by Mark Oshiro (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Post-apocalyptic YA Fantasy, Importance of Memory and Reflecting Upon Past Mistakes, Cruelties of Humanity, Potential Goodness of Humanity, a Young Woman Walking the World Seeking Purpose and Love, Latina Heroine
45. Will Do Magic For Small Change by Andrea Hairston (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Story of Two Timelines, of an Alien Being in 1890s Africa and a Teen Girl in 1980s Pittsburgh, Discovering Friendship and Love, LGBT and Poly Relationships in a Homophobic World, Learning to See Others For Who They Really Are.
46. The Ruthless Lady's Guide to Wizarding by C.M. Waggoner (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Fun Fantasy Adventure, F-F Romance, Class Conflict - High Class People Behaving Badly, All Women Mage Adventuring Team, Hilarious Old Lady Necromancer, Drug Issues.
32. The Salvagers Trilogy by Alex White
(Particularly Book 2, A Bad Deal for the Whole Galaxy (Reviewed Here) and Book 3, The Worst of All Possible Worlds (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Space Opera, F-F Romance, Found Family, Hilarious Witter Banter, Sardonic Co-Protagonist, Battle Against Greedy Power-Hungry Rich People, Sci-Fi Magic System.
33. The Black Parade Trilogy by Kyoko M.
(The Black Parade (Reviewed Here), She Who Fights Monsters (Reviewed Here), The Holy Dark (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: "Trashy" Paranormal Romance/Urban Fantasy featuring Christian Mythology. Human/Archangel Romance, Black/Latina Heroine, Angels vs Demons, Snarky Heroine.
34. The Empire of Storms Trilogy by Jon Skovron
(Hope and Red, Bane and Shadow, Blood and Tempest (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy featuring Pirates/Street Thugs/Battling Monks/Biomages/Spies etc, Very Funny Comedy Parts, Snarky Protagonist, Romance, Class and Gender Issues
35. Machineries of Empire Trilogy by Yoon Ha Lee
(Ninefox Gambit, Raven Stratagem (Reviewed Here), Revenant Gun (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Empire and Colonialism, Cultural Suppression, Space Opera, Mathematics Based World, Dealing The Importance of Free Will and Choice, Queer Protagonists, Magnificent Bastards and Supergeniuses.
36. Vita Nostra by Sergey and Marina Dyachenko (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Translated Weird Fantasy, "Magic" School, Abusive Teachers, Strange Esoteric and Incomprehensible Teachings, The Power of Language, Dealing with Parents Re-Marrying, Overcoming Fear to Assert One's Identity.
37. The Genie Lo Duology by F.C. Yee
(The Epic Crush of Genie Lo (Reviewed Here), The Iron Will of Genie Lo (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Young Adult Urban Fantasy, Chinese Mythology/Journey to the West, High School and Looking at Colleges, Dealing with Dual lives of Superheroism and Growing Up.
38. The Old Lie by Claire G. Coleman (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Space Opera, Repeating of Atrocities Towards Indigenous Cultures, Forever War, Abuse of Soldiers and their Families, Transporting of Historical Atrocities into SciFi World.
39. A Brightness Long Ago by Guy Gavriel Kay (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Historically Inspired by Renaissance Low-Fantasy, Chance-Encounter Romance, Feuding Noble Lords/Mercenary Troupes, Protagonist Stumbling Around the World Making History.
40. The Bird King by G Willow Wilson (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Muslim Concubine and Gay Man fleeing The Fall of Granada, Fantasy featuring Muslim Mythology, The Importance of Faith and Having No Doubts, Search for Freedom for Peoples of All Cultures.
41. The Saint of Steel Series by T Kingfisher
(Book 1: Paladin's Grace (Reviewed Here), Book 2: Paladin's Strength (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Comedic Fantasy Romances, Paladin Romances, Introvert Love Interests (Book 1), Super Strong Couple (Book 2), Sex in Odd Places, Fun Fantasy Setting featuring some Horrifying Monsters in the Background, Hilarious Dialogue and Situations.
42. Chilling Effect Series by Valerie Valdes
(Book 1: Chilling Effect (Reviewed Here), Book 2: Prime Deceptions (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Space Opera Comedy, Lots of Subtle Geek References, Latina Heroine, Secret Agents and Crime Syndicates, Psychic Cats, Mass Effect-Inspired Universe, Family Issues, Tons of Laughs.
43. War Girls by Tochi Onyebuchi (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: SciFi Version of Real Life Atrocities - The Nigerian/Biafran Civil War, Giant Mecha, Two Sisters Torn Apart By War Ending Up On Opposing Sides, Tragic Pasts and Endings.
Trigger Warning: War Atrocities, Children Taken From Killed Parents in War, Indoctrination.
44. Each of Us a Desert by Mark Oshiro (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Post-apocalyptic YA Fantasy, Importance of Memory and Reflecting Upon Past Mistakes, Cruelties of Humanity, Potential Goodness of Humanity, a Young Woman Walking the World Seeking Purpose and Love, Latina Heroine
45. Will Do Magic For Small Change by Andrea Hairston (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Story of Two Timelines, of an Alien Being in 1890s Africa and a Teen Girl in 1980s Pittsburgh, Discovering Friendship and Love, LGBT and Poly Relationships in a Homophobic World, Learning to See Others For Who They Really Are.
46. The Ruthless Lady's Guide to Wizarding by C.M. Waggoner (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Fun Fantasy Adventure, F-F Romance, Class Conflict - High Class People Behaving Badly, All Women Mage Adventuring Team, Hilarious Old Lady Necromancer, Drug Issues.
47. Version Control by Dexter Palmer (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Near-Future Sci-Fi World, Time Travel, Racism and Sexism in Academia and Ordinary Life, Questions of Free Will, Love and Being Faithful, Dealing with Tragedy and Loss, AI and Dating Sites.
48. Star Daughter by Shveta Thakrar (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Young Adult Modern Fantasy, Indian-Inspired Fantasy World, Mixed-Heritage Heroine, Pressure from Parental Figures To Succeed, Figuring Out What One Wants Among Others' Expectations, Friendship and Love, Understanding Good and Bad Parts of Humanity.
49. Elatsoe by Darcie Little Badger (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Young Adult Fantasy, Fantasy Version of Modern America, Indigenous Heroine, Faithful (Ghost) Dog Companion, Asexual Teen Heroine, Supportive Family and Friends, White Privilege, Value of One's Heritage.
50 Master of Poisons by Andrea Hairston (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Epic Fantasy, Environmental Disaster, Coming of Age Protagonist, Middle-Age to Older Man Protagonist, African and Indigenous-Inspired World, Searching for Quick Fixes vs Long-Term Slow Solutions, Refusing to Make Sacrifices In Short Term for Long Term Good, Using Religion For Greed and Power.
51. Lobizona by Romina Garber (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Young Adult Urban Fantasy, Struggles of Refugees and Illegal Immigrants, Queer Allegory and LGBTQ Romance/Protagonists in a Cis/Het-Normative World, Argentinian-Inspired World featuring Brujas (Witches) and Werewolves.
52. Foundryside by Robert Jackson Bennett (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy featuring Programming-Esque Well Reasoned Magic System, Class Conflict, Poor Thief Trying to Make it On Her Own Among Mercantile House Based Society, Sexism, F-F Romance, Learning to Assert Ones Identity
53. The Call by Peadar O'Guilin (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy Horror, Young Adult, Body Horror, Fae Fantasy, Irish Mythology, Disabled Protagonist, Terrifying Portal Fantasy World.
54. The Devourers by Indrapramit Das (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Indian-inspired Fantasy, Modern Day and 18th Century Co-Storylines, Queer Protagonist in Modern Day Discovering His Own Sexuality and Identity, Shapeshifters/Werewolves.
Trigger Warning: Rape.
55. The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead
Subgenres and Themes: Slavery, Racism In All Its Forms Throughout History, Moving Historical Events Throughout Time To Merge Together, Magical Realism.
Subgenres and Themes: Near-Future Sci-Fi World, Time Travel, Racism and Sexism in Academia and Ordinary Life, Questions of Free Will, Love and Being Faithful, Dealing with Tragedy and Loss, AI and Dating Sites.
48. Star Daughter by Shveta Thakrar (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Young Adult Modern Fantasy, Indian-Inspired Fantasy World, Mixed-Heritage Heroine, Pressure from Parental Figures To Succeed, Figuring Out What One Wants Among Others' Expectations, Friendship and Love, Understanding Good and Bad Parts of Humanity.
49. Elatsoe by Darcie Little Badger (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Young Adult Fantasy, Fantasy Version of Modern America, Indigenous Heroine, Faithful (Ghost) Dog Companion, Asexual Teen Heroine, Supportive Family and Friends, White Privilege, Value of One's Heritage.
50 Master of Poisons by Andrea Hairston (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Epic Fantasy, Environmental Disaster, Coming of Age Protagonist, Middle-Age to Older Man Protagonist, African and Indigenous-Inspired World, Searching for Quick Fixes vs Long-Term Slow Solutions, Refusing to Make Sacrifices In Short Term for Long Term Good, Using Religion For Greed and Power.
51. Lobizona by Romina Garber (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Young Adult Urban Fantasy, Struggles of Refugees and Illegal Immigrants, Queer Allegory and LGBTQ Romance/Protagonists in a Cis/Het-Normative World, Argentinian-Inspired World featuring Brujas (Witches) and Werewolves.
52. Foundryside by Robert Jackson Bennett (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy featuring Programming-Esque Well Reasoned Magic System, Class Conflict, Poor Thief Trying to Make it On Her Own Among Mercantile House Based Society, Sexism, F-F Romance, Learning to Assert Ones Identity
53. The Call by Peadar O'Guilin (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy Horror, Young Adult, Body Horror, Fae Fantasy, Irish Mythology, Disabled Protagonist, Terrifying Portal Fantasy World.
54. The Devourers by Indrapramit Das (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Indian-inspired Fantasy, Modern Day and 18th Century Co-Storylines, Queer Protagonist in Modern Day Discovering His Own Sexuality and Identity, Shapeshifters/Werewolves.
Trigger Warning: Rape.
55. The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead
Subgenres and Themes: Slavery, Racism In All Its Forms Throughout History, Moving Historical Events Throughout Time To Merge Together, Magical Realism.
Trigger Warning: Slavery, Brutal Racism and Racist Treatment (Scientific, Sexual, etc.) Based Upon Real Historical Practices
56. Fireheart Tiger by Aliette de Bodard (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy Novella Inspired by Pre-Colonial Vietnam, Colonialism/Imperialism, Realizing One's Self-Worth In the Face of Abuse, Healthy and Unhealthy Relationships.
56. Fireheart Tiger by Aliette de Bodard (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy Novella Inspired by Pre-Colonial Vietnam, Colonialism/Imperialism, Realizing One's Self-Worth In the Face of Abuse, Healthy and Unhealthy Relationships.
Trigger Warning: Parental Emotional Abuse, Romantic Emotional Abuse, Implicit Rape Attempt
57. The Four Profound Weaves by RB Lemberg (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy Novella, Trans/Queer Protagonists, Finding Ones Own Identity, Making One's Own Life Through Change, Change vs Clinging to the Past
58. When the Tiger Came Down the Mountain by Nghi Vo (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: East-Asian-Inspired Fantasy Novella, Storytelling From Two Points of View, F-F Romance, Shapeshifting Talking Tigers
59. Riot Baby by Tochi Onyebuchi (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Novella, Racism Throughout American History and Future, Superpowers, Use of Technology to Enable Racism, Righteous Fury & Cleansing Fire
57. The Four Profound Weaves by RB Lemberg (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy Novella, Trans/Queer Protagonists, Finding Ones Own Identity, Making One's Own Life Through Change, Change vs Clinging to the Past
58. When the Tiger Came Down the Mountain by Nghi Vo (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: East-Asian-Inspired Fantasy Novella, Storytelling From Two Points of View, F-F Romance, Shapeshifting Talking Tigers
59. Riot Baby by Tochi Onyebuchi (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Novella, Racism Throughout American History and Future, Superpowers, Use of Technology to Enable Racism, Righteous Fury & Cleansing Fire
Trigger Warning: Racism and Brutality/Prison Brutality
60. Burning Roses by S.L. Huang (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy Novella, Fusion of Asian and Western Fairy Tales, Genderflipped Protagonist, Older Lesbian Heroines Recounting their Pasts As They Try to Right Their Mistakes.
61. Heroine Complex Series by Sarah Kuhn
(Particularly Books 1-3, Heroine Complex (Reviewed Here), Heroine Worship (Reviewed Here), Heroine's Journey (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Asian American Superheroines in San Francisco, Demons possessing Funny/Silly Things, Romance with Steamy Sex Scenes, Searching for One's True Identity, Resolving Conflicts with Friends Through Talking.
62. The Books of Ambha Duology by Tasha Suri
(Empire of Sand (Reviewed Here) and Realm of Ash (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Indian-Inspired Epic Fantasy World, Impact of Colonization and Empire, Mixed Race Heroines both with and without Understanding of Both Their Cultures, Romance Amid Difficult Circumstances.
63. The Dr. Greta Hellsing Trilogy by Vivian Shaw
(Strange Practice (Reviewed Here), Dreadful Company (Reviewed Here), Grave Importance (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Urban Fantasy, Human Doctor in World of Monsters, Vampires, Undead, Demons, etc., Obscure Pulp Monsters and Demons being Really Misunderstood, Awkward Charming Romance, Protagonist who Wants to Help, not Fight.
64. Wayfarers by Becky Chambers
(Particularly Book 1: A Long Way to a Small Angry Planet and Book 3: Record of a Spaceborn Few (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Space Opera, Found Families, Interspecies Cooperation, Making a Life in an Often Socialist Galaxy among Different Cultures, Dealing with One's Past, Obsolescence, Growing Up, the Value of One's and Other's Cultures and Helping Others Make a Better World.
60. Burning Roses by S.L. Huang (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy Novella, Fusion of Asian and Western Fairy Tales, Genderflipped Protagonist, Older Lesbian Heroines Recounting their Pasts As They Try to Right Their Mistakes.
61. Heroine Complex Series by Sarah Kuhn
(Particularly Books 1-3, Heroine Complex (Reviewed Here), Heroine Worship (Reviewed Here), Heroine's Journey (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Asian American Superheroines in San Francisco, Demons possessing Funny/Silly Things, Romance with Steamy Sex Scenes, Searching for One's True Identity, Resolving Conflicts with Friends Through Talking.
62. The Books of Ambha Duology by Tasha Suri
(Empire of Sand (Reviewed Here) and Realm of Ash (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Indian-Inspired Epic Fantasy World, Impact of Colonization and Empire, Mixed Race Heroines both with and without Understanding of Both Their Cultures, Romance Amid Difficult Circumstances.
63. The Dr. Greta Hellsing Trilogy by Vivian Shaw
(Strange Practice (Reviewed Here), Dreadful Company (Reviewed Here), Grave Importance (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Urban Fantasy, Human Doctor in World of Monsters, Vampires, Undead, Demons, etc., Obscure Pulp Monsters and Demons being Really Misunderstood, Awkward Charming Romance, Protagonist who Wants to Help, not Fight.
64. Wayfarers by Becky Chambers
(Particularly Book 1: A Long Way to a Small Angry Planet and Book 3: Record of a Spaceborn Few (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Space Opera, Found Families, Interspecies Cooperation, Making a Life in an Often Socialist Galaxy among Different Cultures, Dealing with One's Past, Obsolescence, Growing Up, the Value of One's and Other's Cultures and Helping Others Make a Better World.
65. The Poppy War Trilogy by R.F. Kuang
(The Poppy War (Reviewed Here), The Dragon Republic (Reviewed Here), The Burning God (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy Adaptation of Sino-Japanese Wars and Other Horrific Events in Western/China History, Cycles of Vengeance and Destruction, Colonization and Empire, Dealing with the Aftermath of Horrors.
(The Poppy War (Reviewed Here), The Dragon Republic (Reviewed Here), The Burning God (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy Adaptation of Sino-Japanese Wars and Other Horrific Events in Western/China History, Cycles of Vengeance and Destruction, Colonization and Empire, Dealing with the Aftermath of Horrors.
Trigger Warning: Rape, Self-Harm, Mutilations', Real Historical Atrocities in a Fantasy World - Experimentation on Captives/Other Cultures, Rape and Slaughter, Killing of Civilians, Genocide.
66. Celestial Trilogy by Sangu Mandanna
(A Spark of White Fire (Reviewed Here) and A House of Rage and Sorrow (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Space Opera Adaptation of the Mahabharata, Young Adult, Gods, Humans, Blessed Weapons and Sentient Ships, Protagonist Desperate For Love and Honor facing Betrayal by Gods and Mortals
66. Celestial Trilogy by Sangu Mandanna
(A Spark of White Fire (Reviewed Here) and A House of Rage and Sorrow (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Space Opera Adaptation of the Mahabharata, Young Adult, Gods, Humans, Blessed Weapons and Sentient Ships, Protagonist Desperate For Love and Honor facing Betrayal by Gods and Mortals
67. The Wells of Sorcery by Django Wexler
(Ship of Smoke and Steel (Reviewed Here) and City of Smoke and Silence (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Young Adult Fantasy, Strong Magic System, Anti-Heroine Sisters Trying to Do What It Takes to Survive Thrown into Leadership Roles, Ghost Ship, Mind Control Powers, Bisexual Heroine, F-F Romance.
(Ship of Smoke and Steel (Reviewed Here) and City of Smoke and Silence (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Young Adult Fantasy, Strong Magic System, Anti-Heroine Sisters Trying to Do What It Takes to Survive Thrown into Leadership Roles, Ghost Ship, Mind Control Powers, Bisexual Heroine, F-F Romance.
68. Under the Pendulum Sun by Jeannette Ng (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Gothic Fae Fantasy/Horror, Changelings and Fae, Christian Missionaries in an Alien (Fae) World, Incestual Temptation, Shocking Plot Twists.
Subgenres and Themes: Gothic Fae Fantasy/Horror, Changelings and Fae, Christian Missionaries in an Alien (Fae) World, Incestual Temptation, Shocking Plot Twists.
69. The Spiritwalker Trilogy by Kate Elliott
(Cold Magic (Reviewed Here), Cold Fire (Reviewed Here), Cold Steel (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Alternate History Europe/Caribbean Fantasy Featuring Cold and Fire Mages, Rome and Europe Colonized by Phoenician and African Peoples, Young Sassy Heroine with Power of Invisibility, Sisterly Love and Bonds Above All, Romance, Spirit and Real Worlds Influencing Each Other, The Wild Hunt, Charismatic Leaders Being Untrustworthy and Power Hungry.
(Cold Magic (Reviewed Here), Cold Fire (Reviewed Here), Cold Steel (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Alternate History Europe/Caribbean Fantasy Featuring Cold and Fire Mages, Rome and Europe Colonized by Phoenician and African Peoples, Young Sassy Heroine with Power of Invisibility, Sisterly Love and Bonds Above All, Romance, Spirit and Real Worlds Influencing Each Other, The Wild Hunt, Charismatic Leaders Being Untrustworthy and Power Hungry.
70. The Invisible Library Series by Genevieve Cogman
(Beginning with The Invisible Library (Reviewed Here), All 7 books worth reading in Order)
(Beginning with The Invisible Library (Reviewed Here), All 7 books worth reading in Order)
Subgenres and Themes: SciFi/Fantasy Hybrid, Traveling the Multiverse, Stealing Unique Books For a Library, Fae and Dragons, Found Family, Sherlock Holmes Pastiche, Tremendous Fun.
71. The Books of the Raksura by Martha Wells
(5 Books and 2 Anthologies, Beginning with The Cloud Roads (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy World With No Humans, Shapeshifting Fantasy Race, Found Family, LGBTQ & Polyamory-Normal Community, Anxious Orphaned Hero, Tremendous Character Building of Many Many Characters.
(5 Books and 2 Anthologies, Beginning with The Cloud Roads (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Fantasy World With No Humans, Shapeshifting Fantasy Race, Found Family, LGBTQ & Polyamory-Normal Community, Anxious Orphaned Hero, Tremendous Character Building of Many Many Characters.
72. The Innsmouth Legacy by Ruthanna Emrys
(Book 1: Winter Tide (Reviewed Here), Book 2: Deep Roots (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Lovecraftian Subversion, Deep Ones as Protagonists, Themes of Oppression of Others Who Are Different by the Government, Trying to Move on After Such Oppression and Losses, Found Family, Ace Protagonist.
73. The Changeling by Victor LaValle (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Modern Fantasy Set In New York City, Dark Fairy Tale-Esque Plot, City as a Character, Racism, Sexism and Sexual Assault, Men Refusing To Say No.
74. A Pale Light in the Black by KB Wagers (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Space Opera, Hopeful LGBTQ-Friendly Future After a 21st Century Societal Collapse, Future Military Services (Space Coast Guard - the NeoG), Service Rivalries, Found Family, Ace Protagonist, Bi Protagonist
(Book 1: Winter Tide (Reviewed Here), Book 2: Deep Roots (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Lovecraftian Subversion, Deep Ones as Protagonists, Themes of Oppression of Others Who Are Different by the Government, Trying to Move on After Such Oppression and Losses, Found Family, Ace Protagonist.
73. The Changeling by Victor LaValle (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Modern Fantasy Set In New York City, Dark Fairy Tale-Esque Plot, City as a Character, Racism, Sexism and Sexual Assault, Men Refusing To Say No.
74. A Pale Light in the Black by KB Wagers (Reviewed Here)
Subgenres and Themes: Space Opera, Hopeful LGBTQ-Friendly Future After a 21st Century Societal Collapse, Future Military Services (Space Coast Guard - the NeoG), Service Rivalries, Found Family, Ace Protagonist, Bi Protagonist
75. The Long Price Quartet by Daniel Abraham
(Book 1: A Shadow in Summer (Reviewed Here), Book 2: A Betrayal in Winter (Reviewed Here), Book 3: An Autumn War (Reviewed Here), Book 4: The Price of Spring (Reviewed Here))
(Book 1: A Shadow in Summer (Reviewed Here), Book 2: A Betrayal in Winter (Reviewed Here), Book 3: An Autumn War (Reviewed Here), Book 4: The Price of Spring (Reviewed Here))
Subgenres and Themes: Epic Fantasy Following Several Characters through long time jumps, Eastern vs Western Styled Worlds, Power and Responsibilities, Ramifications of WMDs vs Conventional Warfare, Sexist Structures of Government, Love vs Duty, Cycles of Vengeance, Power of Language.
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