The world of fantasy continues to captivate readers with its immersive worlds, compelling characters, and intricate narratives. The year 2023 has been no exception, with a wealth of new releases pushing the boundaries of the genre and captivating audiences with their innovative storytelling. This year's crop of fantasy books explores a diverse range of themes and settings, from ancient empires to magical academies, offering readers a thrilling escape into realms filled with magic, adventure, and wonder.
Fantasy continues to evolve, with authors drawing inspiration from a variety of cultures and mythologies. This diverse range of influences is reflected in the "books 2023 fantasy" list, which showcases the breadth and depth of this genre. From epic tales of war and destiny to intimate stories of love and loss, these books represent the best of contemporary fantasy and offer a compelling glimpse into the imagination of talented authors.
Table of Contents
1. Hell Bent by Leigh Bardugo
A detailed exploration awaits in Leigh Bardugo's 'Hell Bent', where important concepts are laid out in an accessible yet informative way. Alex Stern, a student at Yale University with a unique connection to the supernatural, finds herself on a perilous mission to rescue her friend from purgatory. This quest leads her into the depths of the underworld, where she must confront powerful forces and uncover ancient secrets. The story explores themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the consequences of manipulating magic, all set against the backdrop of a richly imagined world where the lines between life and death blur. Published by Flatiron Books in 2023, 'Hell Bent' is a compelling addition to the "books 2023 fantasy" genre, captivating readers with its blend of suspense, magic, and complex characters.
Awards
- Goodreads Choice Award (2023)
- Libby Award (2023)
- $15.76 for hardcover
- $12.99 for kindle
2. Starling House by Alix E. Harrow
In 'Starling House', author Alix E. Harrow presents a captivating tale of secrets, haunting, and a house with a dark past. The story centers around Eden, Kentucky, a town struggling with a sinister legacy linked to E. Starling, a reclusive author who disappeared along with the mysterious Starling House. Opal, seeking a new life for herself and her brother, takes a job in the town and finds herself drawn to the house and its enigmatic heir, Arthur Starling. As the story unfolds, Opal and Arthur are forced to confront the town's buried secrets and face the terrifying forces that threaten to consume Eden. Published by Tor Books in 2023, 'Starling House' is a compelling addition to the "books 2023 fantasy" genre, blending gothic horror with a captivating exploration of family, loss, and the resilience of hope.
Lesson learned
'Starling House' suggests that confronting the past, even when it's painful and shrouded in darkness, is crucial for healing and moving forward. The characters learn that denial and suppression of truth only amplify fear and allow the darkness to fester, emphasizing the importance of facing our demons to reclaim our own lives and our communities.
Awards
- Locus Award (2024)
- Audie Award (2024)
- Goodreads Choice Award (2023)
- $12.44 for hardcover
- $12.99 for kindle
3. The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi by Shannon Chakraborty
'The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi' by Shannon Chakraborty, a compelling addition to the "books 2023 fantasy" genre, tells the story of Amina, a retired pirate who is lured back into a life of adventure and danger. Offered a seemingly straightforward mission to rescue a kidnapped girl for a hefty reward, Amina finds herself entangled in a complex conspiracy involving powerful forces and ancient mysteries. As the story unfolds, Amina must grapple with her past, the allure of power, and the potential consequences of seeking glory, ultimately questioning the true cost of her choices and the price of pursuing a legend. Published by Harper Voyager in 2023, 'The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi' delves into themes of ambition, loyalty, and the enduring power of human connection.
Who should read The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi?
- Fans of fantasy adventure
- Readers who enjoy pirate stories
- Those interested in Middle Eastern mythology
- People who appreciate strong female protagonists
Awards
- Hugo Award (2024)
- Goodreads Choice Award (2023)
- Book of the Month Book of the Year Award (2023)
- $14.64 for hardcover
- $12.99 for kindle
4. The Will of the Many by James Islington
'The Will of the Many' by James Islington, a captivating addition to the "books 2023 fantasy" genre, centers around Vis Telimus, a young fugitive who infiltrates the prestigious Catenan Academy under a false identity. Vis is tasked with uncovering a murder, locating an ancient weapon, and exposing secrets that could dismantle the ruling Hierarchy. This mission requires Vis to navigate the academy's intricate social dynamics, all while concealing their true identity and battling for survival against a powerful and ruthless regime. Published by Gallery / Saga Press in 2023, 'The Will of the Many' explores themes of rebellion, sacrifice, and the struggle for individual freedom against an oppressive system, captivating readers with its intricate world-building and morally complex characters.
Who should read The Will of the Many?
- Fans of epic fantasy
- Readers who enjoy political intrigue
- Those interested in stories about rebellion
- People who appreciate complex characters
- $20.99 for hardcover
- $14.99 for kindle
5. The Ashfire King by Chelsea Abdullah
The work 'The Ashfire King' provokes thought by Chelsea Abdullah, delving into the core ideas surrounding 'books 2023 fantasy', specifically exploring themes of magical realism and alternate worlds. In this captivating sequel to the Sandsea Trilogy, Loulie al-Nazari and Mazen bin Malik, a merchant and a prince, find themselves trapped in a crumbling realm of jinn. Faced with a world on the verge of collapse, Loulie and Mazen are thrust into a complex web of political intrigue and centuries-old conflict, forced to make critical choices about their roles in this new world. The story delves into themes of identity, legacy, and the power of choice, as Loulie grapples with the weight of a fallen king's magic and the consequences of choosing her own path. Published by Orbit in 2025, 'The Ashfire King' offers a compelling blend of romance, adventure, and world-building, captivating readers with its intricate plot and nuanced characters.
Lesson learned
'The Ashfire King' emphasizes the importance of embracing one's own agency and choosing one's path, even when faced with difficult choices and external pressures. The story highlights that true power lies not in inheriting a legacy, but in forging one's own destiny, even if it means defying expectations and challenging the status quo.
Price- $27.90 for hardcover
- $14.99 for kindle
6. The Hurricane Wars by Thea Guanzon
With a focus on 'books 2023 fantasy', 'The Hurricane Wars' by Thea Guanzon showcasing the key aspects of this intricate topic, tells the story of Talasyn, an orphan soldier with a secret gift of light magic, and Alaric, a prince wielding shadow magic, who find themselves locked in a conflict that threatens their world. Both characters are caught in a long-standing war between the forces of light and dark, where their powers clash and merge in unexpected ways. As they navigate a complex and dangerous world, Talasyn and Alaric must confront their past, learn to trust each other, and ultimately choose between their own desires and the fate of their world. Published by Harper Voyager in 2023, 'The Hurricane Wars' weaves a captivating tale of love, power, and the struggle for freedom, offering a compelling blend of 'books 2023 fantasy' tropes with a unique and compelling storyline.
Lesson learned
'The Hurricane Wars' emphasizes that understanding and empathy can bridge even the most seemingly insurmountable divides. The story underscores that true strength lies not in dominance, but in embracing the complexities of both light and dark, and recognizing the potential for healing and reconciliation even amidst conflict.
Price- $18.53 for hardcover
- $14.99 for kindle
7. The Scarlet Alchemist by Kylie Lee Baker
"'The Scarlet Alchemist' by Kylie Lee Baker delivers a well-researched analysis that guides readers through complex ideas with clarity and precision". In this story, Zilan, a young woman from a poor village in southern China, dreams of becoming a royal alchemist. Zilan is forced to practice a forbidden form of alchemy to survive—resurrecting the dead—but her skills attract the attention of the Crown Prince, who needs her help to prevent an assassination attempt. As Zilan navigates the treacherous political landscape of the imperial court, her past comes back to haunt her, and she must confront the secrets that have shaped her life. Published by Inkyard Press in 2023, 'The Scarlet Alchemist' blends fantasy, intrigue, and a touch of romance to create a captivating story about ambition, identity, and the power of choosing one's own destiny.
Who should read The Scarlet Alchemist?
- Fans of fantasy with a historical setting
- Readers who enjoy stories about alchemy and magic
- Those interested in political intrigue and courtly drama
- People who appreciate stories about strong female characters
- $11.79 for hardcover
- $11.99 for kindle
8. The Bone Shard War by Andrea Stewart
'The Bone Shard War' by Andrea Stewart, a compelling addition to the "books 2023 fantasy" genre, is the climactic finale to the Drowning Empire series. Lin Sukai, the newly crowned Emperor, faces a precarious future with her empire teetering on the brink of collapse. As internal strife threatens to unravel her reign, Lin is forced to confront both her own vulnerabilities and the growing power of her enemies, including the formidable Nisong and the rogue Alanga, Ragan. The story revolves around a quest for seven legendary swords, offering Lin a chance to reclaim her power and secure the empire's fate. Published by Orbit in 2023, 'The Bone Shard War' is a thrilling conclusion to the Drowning Empire saga, brimming with epic battles, political machinations, and a compelling exploration of leadership, duty, and sacrifice.
Who should read The Bone Shard War?
- Fans of epic fantasy with a focus on world-building
- Readers who enjoy stories with strong female protagonists
- Those interested in political intrigue and power dynamics
- People who appreciate complex characters and morally gray situations
- $16.79 for hardcover
- $9.99 for kindle
9. The Jasad Heir by Sara Hashem
"'The Jasad Heir' by Sara Hashem is a thorough study of books 2023 fantasy, allows readers to explore the central themes of the book". Sylvia, the lost heir of the destroyed kingdom of Jasad, has been living in hiding for ten years, trying to forget the horrors of her kingdom's fall and the ongoing persecution of its people. When Arin, the heir of Nizahl, the kingdom that conquered Jasad, arrives seeking rebel fighters, Sylvia's magic is exposed, forcing her into a dangerous alliance with her sworn enemy. As they navigate a complex game of power and deception, Sylvia must confront the ghosts of her past and decide whether to fight for her kingdom's resurrection or remain in hiding. Published by Orbit Books in 2023, 'The Jasad Heir' offers a compelling blend of romance, intrigue, and magical realism, exploring themes of identity, revenge, and the enduring power of hope.
Price- $20.37 for hardcover
- $4.99 for kindle
10. The Saint of Bright Doors by Vajra Chandrasekera
A detailed exploration awaits in Vajra Chandrasekera 'The Saint of Bright Doors', where important concepts are laid out in an accessible yet informative way. The story centers around Fetter, a young man haunted by a violent past who seeks refuge in the bustling city of Luriat. Luriat, however, is a place of hidden secrets and supernatural forces, where ordinary life intersects with the divine and every door holds the potential for both danger and revelation. Fetter, navigating this complex world, confronts the consequences of his upbringing and must choose his own path, ultimately discovering the true nature of his identity and the world around him. Published by Tor Books in 2023, 'The Saint of Bright Doors' offers a compelling blend of urban fantasy, existential exploration, and philosophical commentary on the nature of faith, violence, and the search for meaning.
Price- $7.78 for hardcover
11. The Weaver and the Witch Queen by Genevieve Gornichec
Offering a fresh perspective, Genevieve Gornichec delivers an expertly crafted narrative in 'The Weaver and the Witch Queen'. This story follows the intertwined destinies of Oddny and Gunnhild, two women from vastly different backgrounds who find themselves bound by a blood oath and a shared history. Oddny, a young woman yearning for a quiet life, is thrust into a perilous quest to rescue her kidnapped sister, Signy, while Gunnhild, a powerful witch, struggles to embrace her destiny as the future Queen of Norway. As their paths converge and diverge, they face challenges, navigate complex relationships, and confront the consequences of their choices, highlighting the strength of their bond and the enduring power of sisterhood in a world where magic, history, and destiny collide. Published by Ace in 2023, 'The Weaver and the Witch Queen' offers a compelling blend of historical fantasy, romance, and female empowerment, drawing readers into a world of Viking mythology and ancient magic.
Price- $19.47 for hardcover
- $13.99 for kindle
12. The Hexologists by Josiah Bancroft
Offering a fresh perspective, Josiah Bancroft delivers an expertly crafted narrative in 'The Hexologists'. The story centers on Iz and Warren Wilby, a pair of hexologists who solve the unusual and often supernatural problems of their city. When they are called upon to help a king who insists on being baked into a cake, they find themselves entangled in a conspiracy that threatens to unravel the kingdom's delicate political balance. Their investigation leads them to uncover a royal secret, a hidden rebellion, and a network of dangerous magical forces, testing their skills and pushing them to the limits of their abilities. Published by Orbit in 2023, 'The Hexologists' is a witty and inventive 'books 2023 fantasy' story that blends humor, action, and magical realism, offering a refreshing take on the genre.
13. The Last Tale of the Flower Bride by Roshani Chokshi
A detailed exploration awaits in Roshani Chokshi's 'The Last Tale of the Flower Bride', where important concepts are laid out in an accessible yet informative way. This 2023 fantasy novel published by William Morrow tells the story of a man married to a mysterious woman named Indigo, who holds a secret past. The story unfolds as they return to Indigo's childhood home, the House of Dreams, where the husband uncovers the truth about his wife's past and the disappearance of her childhood friend, Azure. This exploration of secrets, betrayal, and the power of stories leads the characters to question the line between reality and fantasy, ultimately confronting the consequences of their choices.
Price- $9.49 for hardcover
- $1.99 for kindle
14. The Midnight Kingdom by Tara Sim
An insightful look at 'books 2023 fantasy', 'The Midnight Kingdom' by Tara Sim offers readers a comprehensive perspective on this topic. The story follows four noble heirs who are scattered across four realms after a battle to save the city of Nexus. Taesia and Nikolas find themselves in the realm of night, Noctus, with a dangerous god of light who seeks its destruction. Risha, a necromancer, struggles to survive in the realm of death, Mortri, while Angelica, an elementalist, faces a diplomatic mission in Vaega, burdened by a mysterious illness. Each heir encounters challenges and alliances as they strive to restore balance to the world, facing powerful gods and the consequences of their actions. The novel explores themes of survival, loyalty, and the complexities of power in a world grappling with the forces of light and darkness.
Price- $31.22 for hardcover
- $9.99 for kindle