Hello! I’m back again with the fifth part of The Ultimate List of Must-Read Fantasy Books 2023. I hope you have been enjoying the journey so far, as we have discovered some of the most exciting and captivating fantasy books of the year. As always, I’ve scoured through the latest releases and upcoming titles to bring you the cream of the crop in the world of fantasy literature.
Fantasy books have always been a staple in the world of literature, providing readers with endless possibilities and captivating worlds to get lost in. This year, we have seen an incredible variety of new releases and upcoming titles that are sure to keep the fantasy lover in you satisfied. Whether you prefer epic battles, magical creatures, or tales of love and loss, there is a book out there for you.
The fantasy books 2023 have taken us on incredible journeys, from the depths of the ocean to the highest peaks of the mountains. We have encountered dragons, wizards, and other fantastical creatures that have captured our imaginations and held us spellbound. These books have explored themes of love, betrayal, and sacrifice, taking us on emotional rollercoasters that have left us breathless.
As we near the end of this list, I can assure you that the final installment will not disappoint. There are still plenty of exciting titles to explore, and I cannot wait to share them with you. So stay tuned for the last part of The Ultimate List of Must-Read Fantasy Books 2023.
In the meantime, I encourage you to explore the titles on this list and discover new worlds and characters that will take your breath away. From epic sagas to standalone novels, there is something for every reader to enjoy. So grab a book, find a cozy spot, and let yourself be transported to a world of magic and wonder.
Until next time, happy reading!
Bewitched by Laura Thalassa
Selene Bowers, a young witch eager to join the prestigious Henbane Coven, embarks on a quest through the wilderness to connect with her powers. However, things take a dangerous turn when a supernatural force attacks her plane, forcing Selene to use her newfound magic to save herself. But the cost of using her powers is high, as Selene’s memories begin to fade away one by one.
Despite the setback, Selene perseveres and eventually arrives at Henbane, where she discovers that her problems are far from over. A long-dead evil, Memnon the Cursed, mistakes Selene for his treacherous wife and begins to pursue her relentlessly. Meanwhile, witches are found dead on campus, and Selene becomes the prime suspect due to her memory loss.
As she navigates this treacherous world, Selene finds herself entangled in a dangerous plot that threatens her life and the lives of those around her. With the help of Memnon, Selene sets out to uncover the truth and clear her name. But Memnon’s plans for her are not what they seem, and Selene must make a difficult choice that could change everything.
Come to me, Empress… This thrilling tale of witches, magic, and ancient evil.
Release Date: April 18, 2023
In the Lives of Puppets by T.J. Klune
In a cozy little abode nestled among the branches of a grove of trees, resides a peculiar family of three robots – a fatherly inventor android named Giovanni Lawson, a nurse machine with a pleasantly sadistic demeanor, and a small vacuum yearning for affection. Victor Lawson, a human, also calls this unique dwelling his home, hidden and secure from the rest of the world.
However, everything changes when Victor brings home an unfamiliar android labeled “HAP” and learns about a dark history shared between Hap and Gio, involving the hunting of humans. As HAP inadvertently alerts robots from Gio’s past to their location, the family’s security is compromised, and Gio is captured and taken back to his former laboratory in the City of Electric Dreams.
In a race against time, Vic and his remaining family members embark on a perilous journey across an unforgiving and surreal landscape to save Gio from decommission or worse, reprogramming. Along the way, Vic grapples with conflicted emotions of betrayal and affection towards Hap while pondering if he can accept love that comes with strings attached.
Author TJ Klune invites you to explore the heart of a peculiar forest and join this family of spare parts on an extraordinary journey. Will they be able to save their beloved Gio, or will their quest be in vain? Find out in this gripping tale of love, loss, and sacrifice.
Release Date: April 25, 2023
The Sun and The Star by Rick Riordan and Mark Oshiro
In this exciting adventure co-written by the New York Times #1 best-selling author Rick Riordan and award-winning author Mark Oshiro, two demigods, Nico di Angelo and Will Solace, must venture into the depths of Tartarus to save a friend. As the son of Hades, Nico has already experienced his fair share of struggles, including losing his mother and sister and being outed without his consent. However, with Will, the son of Apollo, by his side, he has always felt that they could overcome anything.
But now, Nico is being haunted by a voice from Tartarus, and he believes it belongs to Bob, a reformed Titan left behind by Percy and Annabeth. After receiving a prophecy from Rachel Dare, Nico sets out on a dangerous quest to rescue Bob, with Will insisting on joining him. However, Nico wonders if Will’s light-based powers can survive the darkness of Tartarus.
As Nico and Will journey through the underworld, they must also confront their inner demons and test the strength of their relationship. In this standalone adventure, featuring two of the most beloved characters in the Percy Jackson saga, readers will be taken on an unforgettable journey filled with action, adventure, and heart.
Release Date: May 2, 2023
Witch King by Martha Wells
The bond between power and friendship is a complex one, and in Martha Wells’ Witch King, it is put to the test. Kai, a powerful demon, finds himself in a precarious situation after being trapped in an elaborate water trap and waking up to a lesser mage trying to exploit his powers. But this is just the beginning of his troubles.
As Kai begins to unravel the mystery of why he was imprisoned in the first place and what has changed in the world since his assassination, he discovers that the Rising World Coalition is gaining more influence, leaving him to question who he can trust.
With the weight of these questions on his shoulders, Kai must rely on his allies and the magic of his pain if he hopes to find the answers he seeks. But what he uncovers may be more than he bargained for, and the trust he thought he had in those closest to him may be put to the ultimate test.
Witch King is a tale of trust and betrayal, of the families we choose, and the power that comes with those choices. The journey that Kai must embark on is not an easy one, but it is a testament to the strength of his character and the depth of his friendships.
Release Date: May 30, 2023
Cherish by Tracy Wolff
In the epic conclusion to the bestselling series, life isn’t easy for the protagonist and her friends. After successfully defeating Cyrus, they’ve been enjoying a peaceful few months. However, everything changes when the Vampire Court and Dragon Court are left without their leaders and the Gargoyle Court is left in the hands of a young teenager.
As the Circle begins to crumble, a new threat looms, and the protagonist must return to the Shadow Realm to face the terrifying queen who almost destroyed them all. In order to save her friend Mekhi, she must make a deal with the queen, but even with the help of her powerful friends and Hudson, something is not quite right with him. He’s keeping a secret that even she is unaware of.
With everyone’s lives on the line and a favor owed to the Crone, the protagonist must navigate dangerous waters to save those she loves most.
Release Date: May 30, 2023
Lore Olympus: Volume Four by Rachel Smythe
Witness what the gods do after dark in the fourth volume of a stylish and contemporary reimagining of one of the best-known stories in Greek mythology, featuring exclusive behind-the-scenes content from creator Rachel Smythe.
“I don’t always get to do as I please.”
The rumor mill of Olympus is constantly churning, but Persephone and Hades are all anyone can talk about. With the constant gossip creating intense pressure on the pair, they decide to slow down their budding romance and focus on sorting out their own issues first.
But that’s easier said than done.
Hades struggles to find support in his personal life, with Zeus trivializing his feelings and Minthe resorting to abusive patterns in their relationship. And while Hades tries to create healthier boundaries where he can–like finally putting a stop to his sporadic, revenge-fueled hookups with Hera–he still feels lonely and adrift.
Persephone feels equally ostracized as her classmates shun her for her connection to Hades, and she can find no refuge at home, with Apollo constantly dropping by unannounced and pushing his unwelcome advances. And on top of it all, the wrathful god of war, Ares, has returned to Olympus to dredge up his sordid history with the goddess of spring, threatening to surface Persephone’s dark and mysterious past and ruin her tenuous position in the land of the gods.
Despite agreeing to take it slow, Persephone and Hades find themselves inextricably drawn toward each other once more amid the chaos. The pull of fate cannot be denied.
This edition of Rachel Smythe’s original Eisner-nominated webcomic Lore Olympus features exclusive behind-the-scenes content and brings the Greek pantheon into the modern age in a sharply perceptive and romantic graphic novel.
Release Date: June 6, 2023
Gold by Raven Kennedy
“Find me in another life. Find me in all of them.”
The epic journey comes to an end.
Experience the breathtaking conclusion to the worldwide bestselling and critically acclaimed fantasy phenomenon.
Release Date: December 7, 2023
Secret Project #3 by Brandon Sanderson
In the universe of Cosmere, told by Hoid, bestselling author Brandon Sanderson weaves a captivating tale of two individuals from vastly different worlds. Yumi hails from a land of tranquility, spiritualism, and gardens, while Painter’s world is one of gloom, technology, and haunting nightmares. As fate brings them together in unexpected ways, they must set aside their contrasting beliefs and collaborate to unravel the enigma surrounding their connection. With their communities’ fate hanging in the balance, will they be able to overcome their dissimilarities and save their worlds from impending doom?
Release Date: July 1, 2023
A Soul of Ash and Blood by Jennifer L. Armentrout
The rise of the Queen of Flesh and Fire as the Primal of Blood and Bone has set in motion a great primal power. Casteel, Poppy, and their allies are fighting an ongoing battle against the awakening gods across Iliseeum and the mortal realm.
Poppy’s transformation is having unexpected consequences and she falls into stasis, leaving Cas to fear that he may lose her forever. However, he is advised to talk to her and remind her of their journey together, revealing some of his deepest secrets in the process. As he waits for her to awaken, he can only wonder how much the realm and their relationship will change.
Jennifer L. Armentrout, the #1 New York Times bestselling author, continues the epic love story of Poppy and Casteel in the next installment of the Blood and Ash series. But this time, it’s told from Hawke’s perspective.
Release Date: July 18, 2023
Light Bringer by Pierce Brown
In Pierce Brown’s New York Times bestselling Red Rising series, Darrow returns in the thrilling sequel to Dark Age.
“The measure of a man is not the fear he sows in his enemies. It is the hope he gives his friends.” – Virginia au Augustus
Darrow is both a legend and a man: the savior of worlds, the leader of the Rising, the breaker of chains, but also a husband, a father, and a friend.
The Reaper was once needed, but now the worlds need Darrow. After the dark age, a new age of light, victory, and hope is on the horizon.
Release Date: July 25, 2023
I hope you enjoyed this selection of new releases for fantasy books 2023. But don’t forget, there’s more to explore! Be sure to check out the parts of the list for even more exciting titles to add to your reading list.
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