Magic Fantasy Books: Best Reads – Page 3

97

Elantris

By Brandon Sanderson

Rated 4.16 out of 5 stars, based on 355,421 reviews. 4.16 · 355,421 reviews

Elantris by Brandon Sanderson is an epic fantasy set in Arelon, where a once-glorious magical city has decayed into a cursed ruin after its divine transformation power abruptly failed. The story follows three central figures: Prince Raoden, secretly…

Elantris by Brandon Sanderson is an epic fantasy set in Arelon, where a once-glorious magical city has decayed into a cursed ruin after its divine transformation power abruptly failed. The story follows three central figures: Prince Raoden, secretly cast into Elantris after being struck by the curse; Princess Sarene, a politically astute widow-by-arrangement who maneuvers through Kae’s court; and Hrathen, a zealous high priest determined to convert the kingdom for his empire and god. As religious pressure mounts and war looms, their intersecting agendas explore themes of faith, power, and social collapse. The novel blends high fantasy, political intrigue, and a restrained romantic thread within a single, self-contained narrative.

Book 1 of The Cosmere series

Magic Romance Gods Epic Fantasy War Mythology Political Intrigue Religious Conflict Strong Protagonist Female Protagonist Male Protagonist

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98

The Poppy War

By R.F. Kuang

Rated 4.16 out of 5 stars, based on 508,178 reviews. 4.16 · 508,178 reviews

The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang is a historical military fantasy set in the Nikara Empire, inspired by China’s twentieth-century conflicts. The story follows Rin, a war orphan from a poor southern province who gains admission to the elite Sinegard milita…

The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang is a historical military fantasy set in the Nikara Empire, inspired by China’s twentieth-century conflicts. The story follows Rin, a war orphan from a poor southern province who gains admission to the elite Sinegard military academy after excelling in a rigorous empire-wide exam. Facing discrimination for her background and gender, Rin discovers her rare shamanic abilities linked to the vengeful Phoenix deity. As tensions rise with the neighboring Federation of Mugen, Rin’s growing powers become central to an impending war, raising questions about the cost of victory and the limits of her own humanity.

Book 1 of The Poppy War series

Fantasy Magic Adult Gods High Fantasy Young Adult War Military Fiction Dark Fantasy Historical Fiction Mythology Asia Cultivation Revenge Rebellion Zero to Hero Female Protagonist Academy Drugs

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99

Red Rope of Fate

By K.M. Shea

Rated 4.16 out of 5 stars, based on 6,316 reviews. 4.16 · 6,316 reviews

Red Rope of Fate by K.M. Shea follows Tari, an elf chosen for a formal bonding with Arion, a human military captain, in a political effort to ease tensions between their peoples. When the ritual unexpectedly allows them to understand each other despi…

Red Rope of Fate by K.M. Shea follows Tari, an elf chosen for a formal bonding with Arion, a human military captain, in a political effort to ease tensions between their peoples. When the ritual unexpectedly allows them to understand each other despite the language divide, they become central figures in fragile negotiations and the target of factions determined to keep humans and elves apart. As Tari navigates court politics, cultural taboos, and the expectations of the ruling class, she must hide her growing affection for the stoic Arion, whose guarded nature makes his own feelings difficult to read. Blending light humor, magic, and a clean slow-burn romance, this young adult fantasy focuses on cross-cultural partnership under pressure and the risks of challenging long-standing boundaries.

Book 1 of The Elves of Lessa series

Fantasy Magic Humor Romance Young Adult Elves Fae Paranormal Ruling Class Political Intrigue Female Protagonist Strong Female Lead

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100

A Dash of Trouble

By Anna Meriano

Rated 4.16 out of 5 stars, based on 3,219 reviews. 4.16 · 3,219 reviews

In A Dash of Trouble, Anna Meriano introduces Leonora Logroño, the youngest daughter in a tight-knit Mexican American family that runs a popular bakery in Rose Hill, Texas. Longing to be included in preparations for the town’s Día de los Muertos cele…

In A Dash of Trouble, Anna Meriano introduces Leonora Logroño, the youngest daughter in a tight-knit Mexican American family that runs a popular bakery in Rose Hill, Texas. Longing to be included in preparations for the town’s Día de los Muertos celebration, Leo secretly discovers that her mother, aunts, and older sisters are brujas whose pastries are infused with real magic. Convinced she shares their supernatural talent, she begins experimenting with spells behind their backs, especially when her best friend Caroline needs help. The story blends light fantasy, cultural tradition, and a coming-of-age arc as Leo’s eagerness to prove herself leads to magical mishaps and difficult choices about honesty, responsibility, and belonging.

Book 1 of Love Sugar Magic series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Supernatural Childrens Witches Coming Of Age Female Protagonist

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101

The Cry of the Icemark

By Stuart Hill

Rated 4.16 out of 5 stars, based on 11,919 reviews. 4.16 · 11,919 reviews

The Cry of the Icemark by Stuart Hill follows Thirrin Freer Strong-in-the-Arm Lindenshield, a young warrior princess suddenly responsible for defending her frozen kingdom after her father’s death in battle. As invading forces threaten to overwhelm th…

The Cry of the Icemark by Stuart Hill follows Thirrin Freer Strong-in-the-Arm Lindenshield, a young warrior princess suddenly responsible for defending her frozen kingdom after her father’s death in battle. As invading forces threaten to overwhelm the Icemark, Thirrin must negotiate fragile alliances with magical and nonhuman peoples, including Snow Leopards, Vampires, and Wolf-folk, while learning to balance courage, strategy, and leadership. Supported by a scholarly young warlock whose friendship challenges her assumptions, she confronts both brutal warfare and the emotional costs of command. This young adult high fantasy blends large-scale battles, political negotiation, hints of romance, and a strong female protagonist at the center of a harsh, wintry world.

Book 1 of The Icemark Chronicles series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Romance High Fantasy Young Adult War Vampires Childrens Strong Protagonist Female Protagonist Wolves Strong Female Lead

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102

Miss Percy's Pocket Guide to the Care and Feeding of British Dragons

By Quenby Olson

Rated 4.16 out of 5 stars, based on 4,148 reviews. 4.16 · 4,148 reviews

Miss Percy’s Pocket Guide to the Care and Feeding of British Dragons by Quenby Olson follows Miss Mildred Percy, a reserved, middle-aged woman whose quiet life is overturned when she unexpectedly inherits a dragon’s egg from her great-uncle. When the…

Miss Percy’s Pocket Guide to the Care and Feeding of British Dragons by Quenby Olson follows Miss Mildred Percy, a reserved, middle-aged woman whose quiet life is overturned when she unexpectedly inherits a dragon’s egg from her great-uncle. When the egg hatches, Mildred must conceal and care for a creature that should not exist in a version of historical England unaccustomed to magic. As she navigates the practical challenges of feeding and hiding a growing dragon, she also begins to reconsider her place in society and her feelings for a kind local vicar. The novel blends cozy fantasy, gentle romance, and light adventure around a late-blooming, strong female protagonist.

Book 1 of Miss Percy Guide series

Fantasy Magic Romance Dragons Cozy Medieval Historical Fiction Female Protagonist Strong Female Lead

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103

Clean Sweep

By Ilona Andrews

Rated 4.16 out of 5 stars, based on 64,044 reviews. 4.16 · 64,044 reviews

Clean Sweep by Ilona Andrews introduces Dina Demille, an innkeeper whose quiet Texas bed-and-breakfast is actually a sentient, magically empowered refuge for travelers from distant worlds. Armed with a lethal broom and aided by her shape-shifting Shi…

Clean Sweep by Ilona Andrews introduces Dina Demille, an innkeeper whose quiet Texas bed-and-breakfast is actually a sentient, magically empowered refuge for travelers from distant worlds. Armed with a lethal broom and aided by her shape-shifting Shih Tzu, Dina is drawn into protecting her unsuspecting suburban neighborhood when a predatory, otherworldly creature begins killing nearby. As she investigates, she must navigate uneasy alliances and romantic tension with Sean Evans, an alpha werewolf neighbor, and Arland, a disciplined vampire warrior bound by interstellar politics. Blending urban fantasy, science fiction elements, and action-oriented romance, the novel centers on a capable female protagonist balancing duty to her inn with the escalating dangers outside its wards.

Book 1 of Innkeeper Chronicles series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Action Romance Science Fiction Urban Fantasy Vampires Paranormal Aliens Werewolves Female Protagonist Strong Female Lead

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104

The Goose Girl

By Shannon Hale

Rated 4.15 out of 5 stars, based on 148,984 reviews. 4.15 · 148,984 reviews

In The Goose Girl, Shannon Hale expands a classic Grimm fairy tale into a character-focused young adult fantasy about identity, loyalty, and power. Crown Princess Anidori-Kiladra Talianna Isilee of Kildenree grows up more at ease with animals and the…

In The Goose Girl, Shannon Hale expands a classic Grimm fairy tale into a character-focused young adult fantasy about identity, loyalty, and power. Crown Princess Anidori-Kiladra Talianna Isilee of Kildenree grows up more at ease with animals and the secret language of birds than with court politics, a difference that leaves her vulnerable when betrayal strips her of her title on the way to an arranged marriage. Forced into hiding as a lowly goose girl in a foreign kingdom, she must rely on her quiet magic, her bond with the horse Falada, and new friendships to confront those who stole her life. The novel blends adventure, subtle romance, and coming-of-age themes as Ani learns what kind of leader she might become.

Book 1 of The Books of Bayern series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Romance Young Adult Childrens Coming Of Age Female Protagonist Heroic Fantasy Fairy Tales

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105

A Court of Thorns and Roses

By Sarah J. Maas

Rated 4.15 out of 5 stars, based on 4,348,726 reviews. 4.15 · 4,348,726 reviews

A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas follows nineteen-year-old huntress Feyre, whose decision to kill a wolf draws her into the perilous realm of the Fae as payment for her crime. Taken to a faerie court ruled by the enigmatic Tamlin, she mus…

A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas follows nineteen-year-old huntress Feyre, whose decision to kill a wolf draws her into the perilous realm of the Fae as payment for her crime. Taken to a faerie court ruled by the enigmatic Tamlin, she must navigate shifting alliances, lethal magic, and her own changing feelings toward her captor. As Feyre uncovers the truth behind a curse and a rising, ancient threat, she is forced to choose between her human past and the violent, seductive power of the faerie world. This fantasy romance blends enemies-to-lovers tension, heroic stakes, and a strong female lead in a setting marked by danger, passion, and political intrigue.

Book 1 of A Court of Thorns and Roses series

Fantasy Magic Romance Young Adult Fae Enemies To Lovers Female Protagonist Violence New Adult Heroic Fantasy Strong Female Lead

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106

Sinister Magic

By Lindsay Buroker

Rated 4.15 out of 5 stars, based on 11,848 reviews. 4.15 · 11,848 reviews

Sinister Magic by Lindsay Buroker introduces Val Thorvald, a half-elven assassin who specializes in eliminating dangerous supernatural threats in a modern, magic-laced world. Armed with an enchanted sword and aided by a telepathic tiger, she has surv…

Sinister Magic by Lindsay Buroker introduces Val Thorvald, a half-elven assassin who specializes in eliminating dangerous supernatural threats in a modern, magic-laced world. Armed with an enchanted sword and aided by a telepathic tiger, she has survived years of hostility from vampires, ogres, and other paranormal enemies. Her precarious balance shatters when her boss falls ill from an unknown magical cause, a persistent government agent begins tracking her activities, and a powerful dragon appears with plans to bend her will to his own purposes. Blending urban fantasy, action, and a thread of reluctant attraction amid dragons, fae, and shapeshifters, the novel follows a sharp-tongued, strong female protagonist forced to navigate new alliances or risk losing everything.

Book 1 of Death Before Dragons series

Fantasy Magic Romance Dragons Urban Fantasy Shapeshifters Vampires Fae Paranormal Zombies Assassins Strong Protagonist Female Protagonist Strong Female Lead

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107

The City of Brass

By S.A. Chakraborty

Rated 4.14 out of 5 stars, based on 157,608 reviews. 4.14 · 157,608 reviews

The City of Brass (The Daevabad Trilogy, #1) by S.A. Chakraborty follows Nahri, a skilled con artist in eighteenth-century Cairo who unexpectedly summons Dara, a djinn warrior. Their escape leads them to Daevabad, a magical city marked by political i…

The City of Brass (The Daevabad Trilogy, #1) by S.A. Chakraborty follows Nahri, a skilled con artist in eighteenth-century Cairo who unexpectedly summons Dara, a djinn warrior. Their escape leads them to Daevabad, a magical city marked by political intrigue and ancient grudges. Set against a backdrop of Middle Eastern mythology, the novel explores themes of power, identity, and survival within a richly detailed fantasy world.

Book 1 of The Daevabad Trilogy series

Adventure Magic Romance Gods Epic Fantasy Monsters War Mythology Low Fantasy Ruling Class Political Intrigue Female Protagonist

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108

Mystic and Rider

By Sharon Shinn

Rated 4.14 out of 5 stars, based on 10,940 reviews. 4.14 · 10,940 reviews

Mystic and Rider by Sharon Shinn opens in Gillengaria, a kingdom strained by rising violence against magic users despite the king’s decree of tolerance. Mystic Senneth is sent to travel the realm and gauge the threat of rebellion among the powerful T…

Mystic and Rider by Sharon Shinn opens in Gillengaria, a kingdom strained by rising violence against magic users despite the king’s decree of tolerance. Mystic Senneth is sent to travel the realm and gauge the threat of rebellion among the powerful Twelve Houses, accompanied by a small group that includes Tayse, the king’s most trusted Rider, who distrusts mystics and Senneth herself. As they move deeper into the southern provinces, they encounter organized religious extremism determined to eradicate magic entirely, forcing uneasy allies to confront both political conspiracy and holy war. The novel blends epic and high fantasy with adult themes of loyalty, faith, and power, anchored by a capable female protagonist at the center of both romantic tension and looming conflict.

Book 1 of Twelve Houses series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Adult Romance Science Fiction Epic Fantasy High Fantasy War Political Intrigue Religious Conflict Strong Protagonist Female Protagonist

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109

Arrows of the Queen

By Mercedes Lackey

Rated 4.14 out of 5 stars, based on 40,036 reviews. 4.14 · 40,036 reviews

Arrows of the Queen by Mercedes Lackey introduces Talia, a young runaway whose life changes when she is chosen by Rolan, a mysterious Companion with extraordinary powers. Taken to the kingdom of Valdemar to train as a Herald, she must learn to contro…

Arrows of the Queen by Mercedes Lackey introduces Talia, a young runaway whose life changes when she is chosen by Rolan, a mysterious Companion with extraordinary powers. Taken to the kingdom of Valdemar to train as a Herald, she must learn to control her emerging psychic gifts while navigating court politics and the strict demands of her new role. As plots against the Queen and her vulnerable heir intensify, Talia’s developing abilities and uncertain loyalties place her at the center of a struggle involving magic, assassination, and political intrigue. The novel blends epic and high fantasy with a coming-of-age focus on a complex female protagonist under mounting psychological and moral pressure.

Book 1 of Valdemar: Heralds of Valdemar series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Adult Science Fiction Epic Fantasy High Fantasy Young Adult Coming Of Age Political Intrigue Female Protagonist Psychological Strong Female Lead

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110

The Mists of Avalon

By Marion Zimmer Bradley

Rated 4.13 out of 5 stars, based on 213,783 reviews. 4.13 · 213,783 reviews

The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley revisits the Arthurian legends from the perspectives of Morgaine, Gwenhwyfar, and other women whose choices shape Camelot’s rise and fall. Set in a Britain caught between ancient pagan traditions and the s…

The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley revisits the Arthurian legends from the perspectives of Morgaine, Gwenhwyfar, and other women whose choices shape Camelot’s rise and fall. Set in a Britain caught between ancient pagan traditions and the spread of Christianity, the novel blends fantasy, mythology, and historical fiction to explore power, loyalty, and belief. Magic, political maneuvering, and romantic entanglements intersect as these women navigate court intrigue and shifting alliances among the ruling class. With its focus on a strong female lead and a richly detailed setting, this classic reimagining offers a more intimate view of the legends surrounding King Arthur and Avalon.

Book 1 of Avalon (Publication Order) series

Fantasy Magic Romance Science Fiction Historical Fiction Classics Mythology Drama Ruling Class Female Protagonist Strong Female Lead Arthurian

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111

Touch of Power

By Maria V. Snyder

Rated 4.13 out of 5 stars, based on 47,441 reviews. 4.13 · 47,441 reviews

In Touch of Power, Maria V. Snyder introduces Avry of Kazan, a healer who takes on the injuries and illnesses of others, only to be blamed for a devastating plague and forced into hiding. When a group of rogues kidnaps her, they seek not her bounty b…

In Touch of Power, Maria V. Snyder introduces Avry of Kazan, a healer who takes on the injuries and illnesses of others, only to be blamed for a devastating plague and forced into hiding. When a group of rogues kidnaps her, they seek not her bounty but her rare magic, insisting she save a prince whose past actions have harmed her own people. As Avry travels with them across the perilous Nine Mountains, facing mercenaries, war-torn factions, and unpredictable magic, she is pushed to reconsider loyalty, justice, and sacrifice. The novel blends high fantasy adventure, paranormal healing magic, and a slow-building romance around a resilient young woman navigating survival in a fractured world.

Book 1 of Healer series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Romance High Fantasy Young Adult War Paranormal Survival Strong Protagonist Female Protagonist Strong Female Lead

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112

Boudica: Dreaming the Eagle

By Manda Scott

Rated 4.13 out of 5 stars, based on 5,577 reviews. 4.13 · 5,577 reviews

Boudica: Dreaming the Eagle by Manda Scott opens an epic historical fantasy trilogy about the early life of Breaca, the Eceni chieftain’s daughter who will become Boudica, “Bringer of Victory.” Set in 33 AD tribal Britain, the novel follows her trans…

Boudica: Dreaming the Eagle by Manda Scott opens an epic historical fantasy trilogy about the early life of Breaca, the Eceni chieftain’s daughter who will become Boudica, “Bringer of Victory.” Set in 33 AD tribal Britain, the novel follows her transformation from an aspiring mystical Dreamer into a warrior after avenging her mother’s death, and traces her deep bonds with Caradoc, a gifted war leader, and Ban, her half-brother and exceptional Druidic seer. Scott depicts a landscape where gods, omens, and the natural world shape every decision, balancing large-scale warfare against Rome with intimate scenes of love, loyalty, and spiritual power. The result is a blend of adventure, myth-infused magic, and romance rooted in the tensions between Celtic tradition and imperial conquest.

Book 1 of Boudica series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Romance Gods Epic Fantasy War Historical Fiction Mythology Female Protagonist

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113

Fierce Heart

By Tara Grayce

Rated 4.13 out of 5 stars, based on 7,977 reviews. 4.13 · 7,977 reviews

Fierce Heart by Tara Grayce follows Essie, a human princess who unexpectedly finds herself bound by marriage to Laesornysh, an elven prince and seasoned warrior, after a failed diplomatic meeting. Thrust into an arranged union and an unfamiliar, rese…

Fierce Heart by Tara Grayce follows Essie, a human princess who unexpectedly finds herself bound by marriage to Laesornysh, an elven prince and seasoned warrior, after a failed diplomatic meeting. Thrust into an arranged union and an unfamiliar, reserved elven court, Essie must navigate cultural clashes, political maneuvering, and her own outspoken nature as tensions between humans, elves, and fae edge toward war. As alliances fray and battle looms, she works to bridge the divide between kingdoms while adjusting to life among the ruling class of a magical realm. Blending light humor with high fantasy stakes and slow-burn romance, the novel centers on a strong female lead learning to wield both her voice and her new position.

Book 1 of Elven Alliance series

Fantasy Magic Humor Romance High Fantasy Young Adult War Elves Fae Ruling Class Political Intrigue Female Protagonist Strong Female Lead

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114

Cry Wolf

By Patricia Briggs

Rated 4.12 out of 5 stars, based on 109,927 reviews. 4.12 · 109,927 reviews

Cry Wolf by Patricia Briggs opens with Anna Latham, a newly turned werewolf who has spent years trapped at the lowest rank of her Chicago pack, wary of any dominant male. Her life changes when Charles Cornick, the reclusive enforcer and son of the No…

Cry Wolf by Patricia Briggs opens with Anna Latham, a newly turned werewolf who has spent years trapped at the lowest rank of her Chicago pack, wary of any dominant male. Her life changes when Charles Cornick, the reclusive enforcer and son of the North American Marrok, claims she is not only his mate but an exceptionally rare Omega whose presence can steady even the most volatile wolves. Taken into the Montana mountains and an unfamiliar werewolf hierarchy, Anna must navigate pack politics, a tentative romantic bond, and her emerging supernatural abilities. As she and Charles track a dangerously unstable, magically altered werewolf in the wilds, this urban fantasy blends shapeshifter lore, paranormal suspense, and a slowly building romance within a broader supernatural world.

Book 1 of Alpha & Omega series

Magic Romance Shapeshifters Mystery Dark Supernatural Werewolves Strong Protagonist Female Protagonist

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115

The Ruins of Ambrai

By Melanie Rawn

Rated 4.12 out of 5 stars, based on 9,232 reviews. 4.12 · 9,232 reviews

The Ruins of Ambrai by Melanie Rawn opens the Exiles trilogy on Lenfell, a once-devastated world still shaped by an ancient magical cataclysm. Generations after rival Mageborn factions poisoned the land with Wild Magic and created the monstrous Wrait…

The Ruins of Ambrai by Melanie Rawn opens the Exiles trilogy on Lenfell, a once-devastated world still shaped by an ancient magical cataclysm. Generations after rival Mageborn factions poisoned the land with Wild Magic and created the monstrous Wraithenbeasts, society has rebuilt under rigid controls on power, bloodlines, and status. Against this backdrop of war-scarred history and political maneuvering, the long-standing conflict between the Mage Guardians and the Lords of Malerris edges toward open rebellion. As hidden schemes for absolute dominance near fruition, a central female protagonist emerges within a web of family secrets, romantic tensions, and high-stakes magical strategy that will determine Lenfell’s future.

Book 1 of Exiles series

Fantasy Magic Adult Romance Science Fiction Epic Fantasy High Fantasy War Rebellion Political Intrigue Female Protagonist Strong Female Lead

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116

The Awakening Storm

By Jaimal Yogis, Vivian Truong

Rated 4.12 out of 5 stars, based on 3,988 reviews. 4.12 · 3,988 reviews

The Awakening Storm by Jaimal Yogis and Vivian Truong follows Grace, a girl adjusting to life at an elite boarding school in Hong Kong after moving there with her mother and stepfather. A chance encounter with an elderly woman during a school outing…

The Awakening Storm by Jaimal Yogis and Vivian Truong follows Grace, a girl adjusting to life at an elite boarding school in Hong Kong after moving there with her mother and stepfather. A chance encounter with an elderly woman during a school outing leaves Grace with a dragon egg, and its sudden hatching forces her to confront the possibility that the dragon legends from her childhood are real. As the young dragon’s extraordinary powers emerge, Grace and her new friends realize that dangerous groups are hunting it for their own purposes. Blending fantasy, adventure, and mythology in a graphic novel format, the story centers on a determined female protagonist facing a growing threat to the city around her.

Book 1 of City of Dragons series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Dragons Young Adult War Childrens Mythology Comics Strong Protagonist Female Protagonist

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117

Wildwood Dancing

By Juliet Marillier

Rated 4.11 out of 5 stars, based on 32,665 reviews. 4.11 · 32,665 reviews

Wildwood Dancing by Juliet Marillier follows Jena, the practical second daughter of a minor noble family, who lives with her four sisters in an isolated Transylvanian castle. Each full moon, the sisters secretly cross into the Other Kingdom, a fae re…

Wildwood Dancing by Juliet Marillier follows Jena, the practical second daughter of a minor noble family, who lives with her four sisters in an isolated Transylvanian castle. Each full moon, the sisters secretly cross into the Other Kingdom, a fae realm of magic, dancing, and dangerous enchantments, accompanied by Jena’s enigmatic talking frog. When their father falls ill and a domineering cousin assumes control of the estate, political pressure in the human world collides with forbidden romance and ancient powers in the forest. As tensions rise between mortals, vampires, and fae, Jena must protect her sisters and their hidden portal while navigating first love, shifting loyalties, and the limits of her own authority.

Book 1 of Wildwood series

Fantasy Magic Romance Young Adult Vampires Historical Fiction Fae Ruling Class Political Intrigue Female Protagonist Fairy Tales Strong Female Lead

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118

Winds of Fate

By Mercedes Lackey

Rated 4.10 out of 5 stars, based on 17,726 reviews. 4.10 · 17,726 reviews

Winds of Fate by Mercedes Lackey opens a new chapter in Valdemar, a kingdom still recovering from the loss of high magic after Vanyel’s sacrifice. Elspeth, both Herald and heir to the throne, realizes that her emerging mage talent may be the key to d…

Winds of Fate by Mercedes Lackey opens a new chapter in Valdemar, a kingdom still recovering from the loss of high magic after Vanyel’s sacrifice. Elspeth, both Herald and heir to the throne, realizes that her emerging mage talent may be the key to defending her realm against future threats. Tasked with finding a teacher beyond Valdemar’s borders, she must navigate foreign powers, political expectations, and her own uncertainty about power and responsibility. Blending epic and high fantasy with elements of adventure, romance, and a strong female protagonist at the center of court and magical intrigue, this novel begins a larger saga about who should wield great power and at what cost.

Book 1 of Valdemar: Mage Winds series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Adult Romance Science Fiction Epic Fantasy High Fantasy Young Adult Ruling Class Female Protagonist Heroic Fantasy Strong Female Lead

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119

The Witching Hour

By Anne Rice

Rated 4.10 out of 5 stars, based on 125,623 reviews. 4.10 · 125,623 reviews

The Witching Hour by Anne Rice traces the Mayfair witches across four centuries, blending supernatural horror with detailed historical settings. The novel centers on Rowan Mayfair, a gifted neurosurgeon who unknowingly inherits a powerful magical leg…

The Witching Hour by Anne Rice traces the Mayfair witches across four centuries, blending supernatural horror with detailed historical settings. The novel centers on Rowan Mayfair, a gifted neurosurgeon who unknowingly inherits a powerful magical legacy, and Michael Curry, a New Orleans contractor whose near-death experience leaves him with disturbing psychic abilities. As Rowan and Michael investigate her ancestry from modern San Francisco and New Orleans back to Europe and the Caribbean, they uncover a dynasty marked by occult rituals, violence, and a recurring demonic presence known as Lasher. The narrative shifts between intimate psychological tension and expansive gothic family saga, exploring how power, desire, and haunting intersect across generations.

Book 1 of Lives of the Mayfair Witches series

Fantasy Magic Demons Urban Fantasy Supernatural Historical Fiction Paranormal Horror Witches Female Protagonist Gothic Violence Psychological

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120

Children of Blood and Bone

By Tomi Adeyemi

Rated 4.10 out of 5 stars, based on 253,465 reviews. 4.10 · 253,465 reviews

Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi introduces Zélie Adebola, a young woman who grew up in the West African–inspired land of Orïsha before its magic was violently erased by a brutal king. Marked by the massacre of the maji and the loss of her…

Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi introduces Zélie Adebola, a young woman who grew up in the West African–inspired land of Orïsha before its magic was violently erased by a brutal king. Marked by the massacre of the maji and the loss of her mother, Zélie seizes a rare chance to restore magic, joining forces with a defiant princess while being hunted by a crown prince determined to destroy what remains of the old powers. As they cross a landscape haunted by dangerous creatures and restless spirits, Zélie must navigate war, rebellion, and a forbidden attraction that complicates her loyalties. This young adult high fantasy blends adventure, romance, and political struggle around a strong female protagonist confronting both external enemies and her own volatile abilities.

Book 1 of Legacy of Orïsha series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Romance High Fantasy Young Adult War Ruling Class Rebellion Strong Protagonist Female Protagonist

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121

The Red Pyramid

By Rick Riordan

Rated 4.10 out of 5 stars, based on 429,350 reviews. 4.10 · 429,350 reviews

The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan introduces siblings Carter and Sadie Kane, who have grown up on different continents and barely know each other. When their Egyptologist father attempts a risky ritual at the British Museum and vanishes in a violent bu…

The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan introduces siblings Carter and Sadie Kane, who have grown up on different continents and barely know each other. When their Egyptologist father attempts a risky ritual at the British Museum and vanishes in a violent burst of magic, the two are forced together into a world where ancient Egyptian gods exist alongside modern cities. As they uncover their family’s hidden ties to the House of Life, Carter and Sadie race across contemporary settings to confront the chaos god Set and prevent his destructive plans. Blending urban fantasy, mythology, and young adult adventure, the novel follows both a male and female protagonist learning to wield dangerous magic while redefining what family means.

Book 1 of The Kane Chronicles series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Gods Urban Fantasy Young Adult Childrens Mythology Female Protagonist Male Protagonist Heroic Fantasy

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122

Green Rider

By Kristen Britain

Rated 4.10 out of 5 stars, based on 41,198 reviews. 4.10 · 41,198 reviews

In Green Rider, Kristen Britain introduces Karigan G'ladheon, a young woman expelled from school for dueling who is abruptly drawn into the dangerous world of the king’s magical messenger corps. After a mortally wounded Green Rider forces a final mis…

In Green Rider, Kristen Britain introduces Karigan G'ladheon, a young woman expelled from school for dueling who is abruptly drawn into the dangerous world of the king’s magical messenger corps. After a mortally wounded Green Rider forces a final mission on her, she must carry a warning across a kingdom already threatened by war, political intrigue, and sorcery. Pursued by human and supernatural enemies, aided by emerging magical abilities and the restless ghost of the fallen Rider, Karigan confronts both external dangers and a court reluctant to trust her. The novel blends epic and high fantasy elements with a strong female protagonist at its center, balancing adventure, dark magic, and the looming struggle for the throne.

Book 1 of Green Rider series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Adult Science Fiction Epic Fantasy High Fantasy Young Adult War Political Intrigue Female Protagonist Ghosts Strong Female Lead

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123

Poison Study

By Maria V. Snyder

Rated 4.08 out of 5 stars, based on 177,249 reviews. 4.08 · 177,249 reviews

Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder follows Yelena, a condemned young woman who avoids execution by agreeing to serve as the Commander of Ixia’s food taster. Trained to detect poisons and bound to the palace by a lethal dose of Butterfly’s Dust that requ…

Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder follows Yelena, a condemned young woman who avoids execution by agreeing to serve as the Commander of Ixia’s food taster. Trained to detect poisons and bound to the palace by a lethal dose of Butterfly’s Dust that requires a daily antidote, she must navigate court politics, assassination attempts, and the constant threat of death. As unrest grows and rebels move against the regime, Yelena discovers emerging magical abilities that are as dangerous as any toxin. The novel blends high fantasy, political intrigue, and slow-building romance with a focus on survival and a resourceful female protagonist.

Book 1 of Poison Study series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Romance High Fantasy Young Adult Paranormal Survival Rebellion Political Intrigue Female Protagonist Strong Female Lead

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124

Gifted Thief

By Helen Harper

Rated 4.08 out of 5 stars, based on 8,823 reviews. 4.08 · 8,823 reviews

Gifted Thief by Helen Harper follows Integrity, a young Sidhe woman who escaped the rigid, magical ruling clans of the Scottish Highlands as a child and remade herself as a skilled urban thief. Content with her found family of criminals and determine…

Gifted Thief by Helen Harper follows Integrity, a young Sidhe woman who escaped the rigid, magical ruling clans of the Scottish Highlands as a child and remade herself as a skilled urban thief. Content with her found family of criminals and determined to avoid Sidhe politics, she is forced to confront the world she fled when the charismatic heir of the powerful Moncrieffe Clan takes something she cannot afford to lose. As Integrity navigates fae courts, dangerous magic, and old resentments, she must balance loyalty to her crew with the risks of returning to her own people. The tone blends fast-paced action, paranormal intrigue, and sharp humour with a thread of romance.

Book 1 of Highland Magic series

Fantasy Magic Action Romance Urban Fantasy Young Adult Fae Paranormal Ruling Class Female Protagonist Crime Strong Female Lead

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125

The Emperor's Edge

By Lindsay Buroker

Rated 4.08 out of 5 stars, based on 16,094 reviews. 4.08 · 16,094 reviews

The Emperor's Edge by Lindsay Buroker introduces Amaranthe Lokdon, an imperial law enforcer whose practical skills and stubborn sense of duty are tested when mutilated corpses appear along the waterfront and a suspicious fire masks evidence of ritual…

The Emperor's Edge by Lindsay Buroker introduces Amaranthe Lokdon, an imperial law enforcer whose practical skills and stubborn sense of duty are tested when mutilated corpses appear along the waterfront and a suspicious fire masks evidence of ritual killings. As she traces the links between these crimes and a powerful commercial alliance plotting against the emperor, she is ordered to pursue Sicarius, the empire’s most feared assassin, who seems entangled in the same conspiracy. Forced to question her superiors’ motives and her own survival odds, Amaranthe navigates a steampunk-flavored imperial city where magic, political intrigue, and covert warfare intersect. The tone blends fast-paced adventure, mystery, and slow-building romantic tension within an adult fantasy setting.

Book 1 of The Emperor's Edge series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Adult Romance Science Fiction Urban Fantasy Mystery Political Intrigue Assassins Female Protagonist Steampunk Suspense Strong Female Lead

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126

Garden Spells

By Sarah Addison Allen

Rated 4.07 out of 5 stars, based on 108,791 reviews. 4.07 · 108,791 reviews

Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen blends contemporary small-town life with understated magic and family drama. In Bascom, North Carolina, the Waverley women live with an apple tree said to reveal the future and a garden whose plants subtly influen…

Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen blends contemporary small-town life with understated magic and family drama. In Bascom, North Carolina, the Waverley women live with an apple tree said to reveal the future and a garden whose plants subtly influence emotions and choices. Claire Waverley channels this quiet magic into her catering business, while her cousin Evanelle’s inexplicable gifts arrive just when they are needed. When Claire’s estranged sister Sydney returns with her young daughter, old wounds resurface, forcing the sisters to confront their shared legacy, their uneasy place in the town, and the possibility of romance and belonging amid the garden’s persistent influence.

Book 1 of Waverley Family series

Fantasy Magic Adult Romance Paranormal Contemporary Drama Female Protagonist Small Town Strong Female Lead

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127

Finding Sky

By Joss Stirling

Rated 4.07 out of 5 stars, based on 22,775 reviews. 4.07 · 22,775 reviews

Finding Sky by Joss Stirling follows Sky, an English teenager starting over at a Colorado high school, where she is unsettled to discover that the school’s notorious troublemaker, Zed, can speak directly into her mind. As their strange psychic connec…

Finding Sky by Joss Stirling follows Sky, an English teenager starting over at a Colorado high school, where she is unsettled to discover that the school’s notorious troublemaker, Zed, can speak directly into her mind. As their strange psychic connection deepens into an intense romance, Sky is forced to confront buried memories and unexplained gaps in her past. The urban fantasy setting blends everyday school life with supernatural abilities, secretive powers, and a growing sense of danger. Balancing mystery, psychological tension, and paranormal romance, the novel traces Sky’s struggle to understand her magic-linked bond with Zed while a violent new threat closes in on them both.

Book 1 of Benedict-Savant series

Fantasy Magic Romance Urban Fantasy Young Adult Mystery Supernatural Paranormal Female Protagonist Violence Psychological Strong Female Lead

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128

Swordheart

By T. Kingfisher

Rated 4.07 out of 5 stars, based on 47,333 reviews. 4.07 · 47,333 reviews

Swordheart by T. Kingfisher follows Halla, a practical housekeeper whose quiet life unravels when she unexpectedly inherits her great-uncle’s estate and attracts the hostility of his surviving relatives. Her situation grows stranger when she unsheath…

Swordheart by T. Kingfisher follows Halla, a practical housekeeper whose quiet life unravels when she unexpectedly inherits her great-uncle’s estate and attracts the hostility of his surviving relatives. Her situation grows stranger when she unsheathes an old sword and releases Sarkis, an immortal warrior bound to the blade by powerful magic. As Halla and Sarkis travel together, they face bandits, inquisitors, and the increasingly dangerous will of the enchanted sword, all while negotiating an uneasy partnership that edges into romance. Blending fantasy adventure with dry humor and a cozy, character-focused tone, the novel centers on a capable female protagonist who must decide what to risk to claim her own future.

Book 1 of Swordheart series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Humor Adult Romance Cozy Female Protagonist Strong Female Lead

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129

The Two Princesses of Bamarre

By Gail Carson Levine

Rated 4.07 out of 5 stars, based on 74,731 reviews. 4.07 · 74,731 reviews

In The Two Princesses of Bamarre, Gail Carson Levine sets a classic-style fairy-tale adventure in the troubled kingdom of Bamarre, plagued by gryphons, specters, ogres, and a mysterious illness called the Gray Death. Timid twelve-year-old Princess Ad…

In The Two Princesses of Bamarre, Gail Carson Levine sets a classic-style fairy-tale adventure in the troubled kingdom of Bamarre, plagued by gryphons, specters, ogres, and a mysterious illness called the Gray Death. Timid twelve-year-old Princess Addie has always relied on her bold sister Meryl, but when Meryl falls sick, Addie must undertake a dangerous quest to seek a cure. Armed with seven-league boots, a magic spyglass, an enchanted cloak and tablecloth, and the hesitant affection of young sorcerer Rhys, she faces monsters, riddling specters, and a charismatic dragon. The novel blends heroic fantasy, light romance, and coming-of-age themes as a fearful girl grows into an unlikely heroine.

Book 1 of The Two Princesses of Bamarre series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Romance Dragons Young Adult Childrens Strong Protagonist Female Protagonist Heroic Fantasy Fairy Tales Quest

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130

Graceling

By Kristin Cashore

Rated 4.06 out of 5 stars, based on 481,902 reviews. 4.06 · 481,902 reviews

Graceling (Graceling Realm, #1) by Kristin Cashore and Kuri Huang follows Katsa, a young woman born with the Grace of killing in a world where certain individuals possess unique talents called Graces. As the king’s niece and enforcer, Katsa struggles…

Graceling (Graceling Realm, #1) by Kristin Cashore and Kuri Huang follows Katsa, a young woman born with the Grace of killing in a world where certain individuals possess unique talents called Graces. As the king’s niece and enforcer, Katsa struggles with her role until she meets Prince Po, whose combat Grace challenges her perspective. Their alliance leads to revelations about Katsa’s abilities and uncovers a dangerous secret threatening the Seven Kingdoms. The novel explores themes of power, identity, and political intrigue within a fantasy setting.

Book 1 of Graceling Realm series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Romance Epic Fantasy Monsters High Fantasy Young Adult War Medieval Paranormal Enemies To Lovers Sword and Sorcery Ruling Class Rebellion Strong Protagonist Female Protagonist

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131

Once Upon a Broken Heart

By Stephanie Garber

Rated 4.06 out of 5 stars, based on 701,164 reviews. 4.06 · 701,164 reviews

Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber follows Evangeline Fox, a romantic young woman whose faith in true love shatters when the boy she adores is set to marry someone else. In a world of magic, curses, and capricious gods, she makes a desperat…

Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber follows Evangeline Fox, a romantic young woman whose faith in true love shatters when the boy she adores is set to marry someone else. In a world of magic, curses, and capricious gods, she makes a desperate bargain with the immortal Prince of Hearts, agreeing to grant him three kisses at his command. As Evangeline fulfills the first part of their deal, she discovers that the prince’s schemes reach far beyond her broken engagement and pull her into dangerous court politics and ancient enchantments. The novel blends young adult fantasy, slow-burning enemies-to-lovers tension, and the story of a strong female protagonist forced to question whether love is a blessing or a curse.

Book 1 of Once Upon a Broken Heart series

Fantasy Magic Romance Gods Young Adult Enemies To Lovers Strong Protagonist Female Protagonist Strong Female Lead Curses

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132

Dragon Keeper

By Carole Wilkinson

Rated 4.06 out of 5 stars, based on 12,456 reviews. 4.06 · 12,456 reviews

Dragon Keeper by Carole Wilkinson is a young adult historical fantasy set during the Han Dynasty in ancient China, where dragons are nearly extinct. The story follows a nameless orphan girl who forms a fragile bond with an aging dragon and is entrust…

Dragon Keeper by Carole Wilkinson is a young adult historical fantasy set during the Han Dynasty in ancient China, where dragons are nearly extinct. The story follows a nameless orphan girl who forms a fragile bond with an aging dragon and is entrusted with the care of his enigmatic purple stone. Pursued across the empire by a ruthless dragon hunter and a powerful sorcerer, she must navigate dangerous landscapes, shifting loyalties, and unfamiliar magic. As the journey unfolds, the quiet servant girl confronts her own fears and limitations, gradually accepting her role as a true dragon keeper and emerging as a strong female protagonist in a world that underestimates her.

Book 1 of Dragonkeeper series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Dragons Young Adult Historical Fiction Childrens Coming Of Age Asia Strong Protagonist Female Protagonist

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133

On the Edge

By Ilona Andrews

Rated 4.06 out of 5 stars, based on 48,012 reviews. 4.06 · 48,012 reviews

On the Edge by Ilona Andrews introduces Rose Drayton, a young woman scraping by on the borderland between two realities: the magic-poor Broken and the power-ruled Weird. As an Edger, Rose can cross between worlds, but her unusual abilities have broug…

On the Edge by Ilona Andrews introduces Rose Drayton, a young woman scraping by on the borderland between two realities: the magic-poor Broken and the power-ruled Weird. As an Edger, Rose can cross between worlds, but her unusual abilities have brought her only low-wage work and unwanted attention. When Declan Camarine, an aristocratic warrior from the Weird, arrives intent on claiming both her and her rare magic, Rose is forced into an uneasy alliance. Together they confront a wave of monstrous predators spilling across the boundary, in a story that blends urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and survival against escalating supernatural war.

Book 1 of The Edge series

Fantasy Magic Adult Romance Monsters Urban Fantasy Shapeshifters War Paranormal Survival Female Protagonist Strong Female Lead

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134

City of Bones

By Cassandra Clare

Rated 4.06 out of 5 stars, based on 2,186,694 reviews. 4.06 · 2,186,694 reviews

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare introduces Clary Fray, a fifteen-year-old who discovers that New York City hides a secret world of demons, vampires, and other supernatural beings. After witnessing an apparently impossible killing in a nightclub and…

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare introduces Clary Fray, a fifteen-year-old who discovers that New York City hides a secret world of demons, vampires, and other supernatural beings. After witnessing an apparently impossible killing in a nightclub and realizing only she can see the attackers, Clary is drawn into the society of the Shadowhunters, tattooed warriors who police this hidden urban landscape. When her mother vanishes and a demon targets her at home, Clary must navigate dangerous alliances, unravel her own mysterious connection to magic, and confront unsettling truths about her past. Blending urban fantasy, action, and young adult romance, the novel follows a strong female lead forced to redefine what is ordinary and what is monstrous.

Book 1 of The Mortal Instruments series

Fantasy Magic Action Demons Romance Urban Fantasy Young Adult Supernatural Vampires Paranormal Female Protagonist Strong Female Lead

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135

The Naming

By Alison Croggon

Rated 4.06 out of 5 stars, based on 27,709 reviews. 4.06 · 27,709 reviews

In The Naming, Alison Croggon introduces Maerad, a young woman enslaved in a harsh settlement after war destroys her family. When Cadvan, a powerful Bard of Lirigon, recognizes her latent magical gift and connection to the School of Pellinor, she is…

In The Naming, Alison Croggon introduces Maerad, a young woman enslaved in a harsh settlement after war destroys her family. When Cadvan, a powerful Bard of Lirigon, recognizes her latent magical gift and connection to the School of Pellinor, she is drawn into a larger conflict that reaches far beyond her former life. As teacher and student cross the legendary lands of Annar, they confront dangers shaped by ancient powers and rising darkness. This opening volume of the Books of Pellinor offers an epic, high fantasy narrative focused on survival, war, and the awakening of a reluctant heroine.

Book 1 of The Books of Pellinor series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Science Fiction Epic Fantasy High Fantasy Young Adult War Survival Female Protagonist Heroic Fantasy

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136

Enchantress

By James Maxwell

Rated 4.06 out of 5 stars, based on 18,020 reviews. 4.06 · 18,020 reviews

Enchantress by James Maxwell follows Ella, a determined young woman who dreams of mastering magic after seeing an enchanter save her brother’s life. Shut out of the elite Academy of Enchanters by cost and class, she studies obsessively while her brot…

Enchantress by James Maxwell follows Ella, a determined young woman who dreams of mastering magic after seeing an enchanter save her brother’s life. Shut out of the elite Academy of Enchanters by cost and class, she studies obsessively while her brother Miro pursues glory as a swordsman on a distant warfront, wielding enchanted weapons for their embattled nation. As a conquering power advances from the east, Ella meets Killian, a magnetic outsider whose hidden past complicates her loyalties. Blending epic fantasy, academy training, romance, and large-scale conflict, this opening volume of the Evermen Saga centers on how Ella’s choices shape not only her family’s survival but the fate of their world.

Book 1 of Evermen Saga series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Romance Science Fiction Epic Fantasy Young Adult War Strong Protagonist Female Protagonist Academy Heroic Fantasy

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137

Beauty: A Retelling of the Story of Beauty and the Beast

By Robin McKinley

Rated 4.06 out of 5 stars, based on 83,203 reviews. 4.06 · 83,203 reviews

In Beauty: A Retelling of the Story of Beauty and the Beast, Robin McKinley offers a thoughtful fantasy romance centered on a practical, self-doubting heroine. Known as Beauty despite her own conviction that she is plain beside her sisters, she volun…

In Beauty: A Retelling of the Story of Beauty and the Beast, Robin McKinley offers a thoughtful fantasy romance centered on a practical, self-doubting heroine. Known as Beauty despite her own conviction that she is plain beside her sisters, she volunteers to honor her father’s bargain with a mysterious Beast and takes up residence in his enchanted castle. As she navigates its magic, strange servants, and the Beast’s volatile presence, the relationship between captor and captive shifts into something more complex. This young adult retelling emphasizes inner strength, quiet heroism, and the gradual transformation of fear and hostility into trust and affection.

Book 1 of Folktales series

Fantasy Magic Romance Young Adult Enemies To Lovers Female Protagonist Heroic Fantasy Fairy Tales Strong Female Lead

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138

Magic Bites

By Ilona Andrews

Rated 4.05 out of 5 stars, based on 135,944 reviews. 4.05 · 135,944 reviews

Magic Bites by Ilona Andrews introduces a post-shift Atlanta where waves of unstable magic repeatedly disrupt modern technology, unleashing monsters, rogue mages, and other paranormal threats. Kate Daniels, a solitary mercenary with her own secrets,…

Magic Bites by Ilona Andrews introduces a post-shift Atlanta where waves of unstable magic repeatedly disrupt modern technology, unleashing monsters, rogue mages, and other paranormal threats. Kate Daniels, a solitary mercenary with her own secrets, earns a living handling these magical crises until the murder of her guardian forces her into a dangerous investigation. As she tracks the killer, she becomes entangled in a violent conflict between necromancers who command vampires and the Pack, an organized society of shapeshifters. Balancing gritty urban fantasy, adult themes, and a slow-burn romantic undercurrent, the novel follows Kate as she navigates shifting alliances and escalating violence in a city where power is always temporary and nothing supernatural stays contained for long.

Book 1 of Kate Daniels series

Magic Romance Urban Fantasy Shapeshifters Mystery War Vampires Female Protagonist

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139

Book of Shadows

By Cate Tiernan

Rated 4.05 out of 5 stars, based on 27,933 reviews. 4.05 · 27,933 reviews

In Book of Shadows, Cate Tiernan introduces Morgan, a seemingly ordinary high school student whose life in a contemporary small town is disrupted by unexpected signs of magic. As she begins to sense hidden energies and abilities that set her apart fr…

In Book of Shadows, Cate Tiernan introduces Morgan, a seemingly ordinary high school student whose life in a contemporary small town is disrupted by unexpected signs of magic. As she begins to sense hidden energies and abilities that set her apart from friends and family, Morgan is drawn into the world of modern witchcraft and Wicca. The novel follows her tentative exploration of these powers, the strain they place on her relationships, and the unsettling possibility that her connection to the supernatural runs deeper than she was told. Blending urban fantasy, romance, and coming-of-age themes, this first installment traces a young woman’s uneasy shift from outsider to potential witch.

Book 1 of Wicca series

Fantasy Magic Romance Urban Fantasy Young Adult Supernatural Paranormal Witches Coming Of Age Zero to Hero Female Protagonist Strong Female Lead

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140

Half a Soul

By Olivia Atwater

Rated 4.05 out of 5 stars, based on 82,474 reviews. 4.05 · 82,474 reviews

Half a Soul by Olivia Atwater follows Theodora Ettings, a young woman in Regency England whose childhood encounter with a faerie left her with only half her soul and little capacity for fear or shame. Hoping to remain unnoticed during the London Seas…

Half a Soul by Olivia Atwater follows Theodora Ettings, a young woman in Regency England whose childhood encounter with a faerie left her with only half her soul and little capacity for fear or shame. Hoping to remain unnoticed during the London Season, Dora instead attracts the attention of Elias Wilder, the abrasive Lord Sorcier, who recognizes the magical nature of her condition. Drawn into his investigations of unsettling faerie activity and social injustice, she must navigate both supernatural dangers and the rigid expectations of high society. This cozy historical fantasy blends fae magic, slow-burn romance, and a quietly determined female protagonist who questions what it means to be whole.

Book 1 of Regency Faerie Tales series

Fantasy Magic Romance Cozy Historical Fiction Fae Witches Female Protagonist Regency Strong Female Lead

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141

Sorcery & Cecelia: or The Enchanted Chocolate Pot

By Patricia C. Wrede, Caroline Stevermer

Rated 4.04 out of 5 stars, based on 21,807 reviews. 4.04 · 21,807 reviews

Sorcery & Cecelia: or The Enchanted Chocolate Pot by Patricia C. Wrede and Caroline Stevermer is a Regency-era fantasy told through letters between two cousins, Kate in London and Cecelia in the countryside. As Kate navigates a social season entangle…

Sorcery & Cecelia: or The Enchanted Chocolate Pot by Patricia C. Wrede and Caroline Stevermer is a Regency-era fantasy told through letters between two cousins, Kate in London and Cecelia in the countryside. As Kate navigates a social season entangled with formal wizardry, she survives an attempted magical poisoning at the Royal College of Wizards, while Cecelia contends with a suspicious man who appears to be following her. Their correspondence uncovers linked plots involving dangerous enchantments, a missing friend transformed into a tree, and an enchanted chocolate pot at the center of the intrigue. Blending comedy, light romance, and mystery, the novel uses its historical setting to frame a magical adventure led by two sharp, resourceful young women.

Book 1 of Cecelia and Kate series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Comedy Romance Young Adult Mystery Supernatural Historical Fiction Female Protagonist Regency

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142

The Princess and the Goblin

By George MacDonald, Maria Tatar, Mădălina Andronic

Rated 4.04 out of 5 stars, based on 41,885 reviews. 4.04 · 41,885 reviews

In The Princess and the Goblin, George MacDonald follows Princess Irene, a sheltered child living in a remote mountain residence that is part castle, part farmhouse, while her royal father travels his realm. Beneath the mountain, goblins prepare a se…

In The Princess and the Goblin, George MacDonald follows Princess Irene, a sheltered child living in a remote mountain residence that is part castle, part farmhouse, while her royal father travels his realm. Beneath the mountain, goblins prepare a secret assault, forcing Irene into an unexpected adventure that draws her into alliance with Curdie, a resourceful miner boy, and a mysterious great-great-grandmother hidden in a tower room whose presence suggests quiet spiritual guidance. Blending fairy-tale motifs, underground monsters, and hints of Christian allegory, this classic children’s fantasy balances danger with wonder. This edition features an introduction by folklore scholar Maria Tatar and bold, folkloric illustrations by Mădălina Andronic.

Book 1 of Princess Irene and Curdie series

Fantasy Adventure Magic Monsters Young Adult Classics Childrens Female Protagonist Heroic Fantasy Fairy Tales Christian

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143

The Last Magician

By Lisa Maxwell

Rated 4.04 out of 5 stars, based on 23,633 reviews. 4.04 · 23,633 reviews

The Last Magician by Lisa Maxwell follows Esta, a young time-manipulating thief trained to steal powerful artifacts from a secretive organization known as the Order. In a version of modern New York where magic has been nearly eradicated and remaining…

The Last Magician by Lisa Maxwell follows Esta, a young time-manipulating thief trained to steal powerful artifacts from a secretive organization known as the Order. In a version of modern New York where magic has been nearly eradicated and remaining Mageus are trapped on Manhattan by a lethal barrier called the Brink, Esta is sent back to 1902 to retrieve a book that holds the key to that prison. Old New York, thick with gangs, hidden societies, and volatile magic, forces her to navigate shifting alliances and political schemes. As she closes in on the Magician and the truth behind the Order, Esta must weigh loyalty, rebellion, and sacrifice in a world where every choice can alter the future.

Book 1 of The Last Magician series

Fantasy Magic Action Time Travel Urban Fantasy Young Adult Historical Fiction Rebellion Political Intrigue Female Protagonist Strong Female Lead

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144

Daughter of the Blood

By Anne Bishop

Rated 4.04 out of 5 stars, based on 44,225 reviews. 4.04 · 44,225 reviews

In Daughter of the Blood, Anne Bishop introduces a dark fantasy world where an ancient prophecy foretells the rise of a Queen whose magic will eclipse that of the High Lord of Hell. This Witch is still a young girl, powerful yet vulnerable, and every…

In Daughter of the Blood, Anne Bishop introduces a dark fantasy world where an ancient prophecy foretells the rise of a Queen whose magic will eclipse that of the High Lord of Hell. This Witch is still a young girl, powerful yet vulnerable, and every faction in the realm understands that shaping her loyalties means shaping the future of the Blood. As three bitter rivals maneuver through political intrigue, seduction, and violence to gain influence over her, alliances shift and old hatreds resurface. The novel blends high fantasy, paranormal elements, and psychological tension as it follows a strong female protagonist whose choices may transform or destroy her world.

Book 1 of The Black Jewels series

Fantasy Magic Adult Romance High Fantasy Dark Fantasy Dark Paranormal Witches Political Intrigue Strong Protagonist Female Protagonist Violence Psychological

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