Welcome back to the second part of the ultimate list of fantasy books for 2023! If you missed the first part, be sure to check it out to get the full list of 60 incredible books to choose from.
As I mentioned before, there’s something on this list for everyone, no matter what your taste in fantasy may be. But with so many amazing books to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. That’s why in this second part, I’m going to highlight some of the top picks that I think are must-reads for any fantasy fan.
With so many different sub-genres and styles represented, and with the incredible diversity and representation in these books, it’s clear that the fantasy genre is only getting better and more inclusive with each passing year.
Be sure to stay tuned for the third part of this list, where I’ll be highlighting even more amazing fantasy books of 2023. Enjoy!
The Half-Life of Love by Brianna Bourne
Flint Larsen has a ticking clock counting down to his last breath, but he’s about to find out that life can be full of surprises, even when you think you know how it’s going to end. As fate would have it, he meets September Harrington, a bright and vivacious force of nature who turns his world upside down. Despite their undeniable connection, they’re both keeping secrets that could tear them apart. Flint’s half-life may be coming to an end, but with September by his side, every moment is worth cherishing. Will they find a way to beat the clock and make the most of their time together, or will the inevitable put an end to their love story? Join Flint and September on their journey in this heartwarming tale about seizing the day and savoring every precious second.
Release Date: March 7, 2023
The Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi by S.A. Chakraborty
the latest masterpiece from bestselling author Shannon Chakraborty! I know you’re going to love this epic adventure that takes us on a journey across the high seas with pirates, sorcerers, and forbidden artifacts.
The story follows the legendary Amina al-Sirafi, a former pirate who has finally settled into a peaceful life with her family. But when she’s offered a job to retrieve a kidnapped child, she can’t resist the call of adventure and the chance to prove herself one last time. As she and her crew delve deeper into the mission, they soon realize that there’s much more at stake than just a simple rescue mission.
Chakraborty weaves together an intricate plot filled with magic, ancient mysteries, and danger at every turn. The characters are richly drawn, with Amina leading the charge as a fierce and determined heroine. The story is full of surprises, and I found myself on the edge of my seat as I read through each chapter.
One of the things that struck me most about this book is the way Chakraborty seamlessly blends elements of fantasy and adventure. The world she creates is both familiar and otherworldly, with fantastical creatures and magical artifacts that add depth and richness to the story.
If you’re a fan of swashbuckling tales and epic fantasy, then you absolutely must pick up this book. It’s a thrilling ride from start to finish, and I can’t wait for the next installment in the trilogy. So hoist the sails, grab your cutlass, and prepare to set sail on the adventure of a lifetime!
Release Date : February 28, 2023
Ravensong by Cayla Fay
It’s like Buffy the Vampire Slayer mixed with Celtic mythology! The first book is called “The Morrigan’s Daughter” and it’s all about a demi-god named Neve who is forced to attend high school and live amongst mortals until she gains her full power on her eighteenth birthday.
But things get even more complicated when she meets Alexandria, a girl who is determined to help Neve fit in and deal with her own demons. As they grow closer, Neve realizes that love and humanity might not be so bad after all.
But the danger is never far away, as something from Hell wants Alexandria and it’s up to Neve and her sisters to save her before it’s too late. This book is a thrilling adventure full of action, mythology, and romance that will leave you begging for more.
Release Date : March 14, 2023
In Nightfall by Suzanne Young
It’s set in the charming town of Nightfall, Oregon, where siblings Theo and Marco are sent to spend their summer with their grandmother after getting caught throwing a wild party. Sure, their grandmother is a bit odd and insists they be home before dark, but that won’t stop them from having the time of their lives.
That is, until they meet the alluring and captivating Minnow and her friends. Theo and Marco are drawn to their magnetic energy and can’t help but be entranced by them. But something is off about these girls, and Theo soon realizes that her grandmother’s warning to be home before dark was more than just superstition.
As the sun sets in Nightfall, something dark and dangerous emerges, and Theo and Marco find themselves in the fight of their lives. This book is like The Lost Boys meets Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and I couldn’t put it down!
Release Date : March 28, 2023
Stars and Smoke by Marie Lu
The story follows Sydney, a badass spy who’s part of an elite covert ops group, and Winter, an international pop sensation with looks that could kill. These two are polar opposites and it seems like they can’t stand each other, but when they’re thrown together on a dangerous mission, sparks start to fly.
I know what you’re thinking – this sounds like a typical romance novel, right? Wrong! There’s so much more to it than that. The action and suspense had me on the edge of my seat the whole time, and the chemistry between Sydney and Winter was off the charts. I loved how Sydney was such a strong and capable character, and how Winter wasn’t just a pretty face – he had depth and complexity that made me fall for him even more.
If you’re a fan of Nicola Yoon or Ally Carter, you have to read this book. It’s brilliant!
Release Date : March 28, 2023
Spell Bound by F. T. Lukens
The story follows Edison Rooker, who enters the office of Antonia Hex, a powerful sorceress who runs a call center for magical emergencies. Although he doesn’t have much experience with hexes or curses, he has a plan to regain access to the magical world he lost when his grandmother passed. Antonia is intimidating, but she gives him a job and a new name – Rook – which he’s happy to accept.
Rook’s only problem is keeping his Spell Binder, an illegal magical detection device, hidden from the Magical Consortium. On top of that, he has to contend with Sun, the grumpy yet cute apprentice to Antonia’s rival colleague, Fable. But the competition isn’t so bad, especially as Sun seems to pop up more and more, and Rook finds himself minding less and less.
Things get complicated when the Consortium finds out about Rook’s Spell Binder and comes for Antonia. Rook runs to the only other magical person he knows, Sun. But Fable has also been attacked, and now Rook and Sun have no choice but to work together to get their mentors back or face losing their magic forever. This story is so much fun, and I’m loving every moment of it!
Release Date : April 4, 2023
Blood Debts by Terry Benton
Thirty years ago, New Orleans was rocked by a series of brutal events . A young woman was murdered, a family was lynched, and the greatest magical massacre in the city’s history occurred. Fast forward to today, and Clement and Cristina Trudeau, the sixteen-year-old twin heirs to the once powerful magical family, are facing their own challenges. They’re mourning their father and caring for their sick mother, who they soon discover is cursed by someone on the magic council. Someone who’s coming for them next!
Cristina has given up on magic, but Clement sees it as a lifeline from his pain and anger. The problem is, they don’t trust each other anymore. However, if they want to solve the decades-old murder and save their family, they’ll have to work together and trust in their family’s magic. All while facing rising tensions between the city’s magical and non-magical communities. It’s a race against time, and if they fail, New Orleans could see another massacre. Can they do it? Let’s find out!
Release Date: April 4, 2023
Bound by Sword and Spirit by Andrea Robertson
Things are getting so intense for Ara and her friends! The evil Vokkans are on the move, and they’re not slowing down for anyone! But I know that Ara and her Loreknights won’t give up without a fight! Even though they’re separated, they’re still going to do everything they can to protect Saetlund and the world!
I can’t believe that Teth is captured, though! And with Prince Eamon of all people! But I know that Teth is tough, and he’ll figure out a way to turn the tables on those dark wizards. And Prince Eamon… well, maybe he can still redeem himself and help his sister in the process. Who knows? Anything is possible in this crazy world!
The battle to save their world is approaching, but I know Ara and her friends are up for the challenge. They have some mysterious allies on their side, and together they’re going to take back their kingdom once and for all! And when they do, they’ll change the future of Saetlund forever! I just know it!
Release Date : May 16, 2023
Legends and Liars by Morgan Rhodes
Josslyn Drake is on another thrilling adventure! After escaping from the Queen’s palace with Prince Elian, she had hoped to find a way to solve their magical problems with the help of Jericho Nox. But things aren’t going as planned, and they’re facing a powerful mage who won’t lend them a hand.
But Joss isn’t one to back down from a challenge. With her determination and natural abilities, she’s determined to find a way to control her memory magic and save the people she cares about. And when she uncovers a royal secret, she realizes that her unwanted power might just hold the key to everything.
As tensions rise and the fate of the empire hangs in the balance, Joss is ready to take on whatever comes her way. With her friends by her side, she’s going to prove that even the toughest magical mess can be overcome.
Release Date: June 13, 2023
Threads That Bind by Kika Hatzopoulou
In a world where gods’ children inherit their powers, the descendants of the Fates are born in threes, with each sister having a specific role to play. Io, the youngest of the Ora sisters, uses her Fate-born abilities to work as a private investigator in Alante. But when a string of terrifying murders occur, she discovers that someone is cutting the life-threads of innocent women and unleashing their vengeful spirits on the city.
Io must team up with Edei Rhuna, her soulmate and right-hand man of the notorious Mob Queen, to solve the case. But as the investigation gets more personal, Io’s estranged oldest sister enters the picture, complicating things further. As she delves deeper into the conspiracy, Io must confront secrets from her past and her growing feelings for Edei.
With destruction looming, Io must navigate through the city’s dark underworld and unmask the culprits, who happen to be some of the most powerful figures in Alante. Her quest to save her sisters, soulmate, and city will test her Fate-born abilities to the limit and change the course of her own destiny forever.
Release Date: May 30, 2023
The year 2023 promises to be a fantastic one for fantasy book lovers. We’ve explored some of the most anticipated and captivating releases in the second part of “The Ultimate List of Must-Read Fantasy Books of 2023.” If you missed part one of the list, you can find it here. From intriguing plots to epic adventures, there’s something for every reader to dive into and enjoy. Don’t forget to stay tuned for part three of the list, where we’ll continue to explore the best fantasy books of 2023. Happy reading!
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