Escape the Summer Heat – Dive into Otherworldly Fantasy Novels

The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake

Members of the secret Alexandrian Society are caretakers of lost knowledge from great civilizations of antiquity. Those who join their ranks gain a life of wealth and power. Every decade, six of the most talented magicians are selected for initiation. They’re given access to the archives and a chance to contribute to arcane areas of knowledge – but only five will be accepted. Follow the new initiates as they try to gain a place in society… and survive.

This is an excellent choice if you enjoy deep character development and magical libraries. If you dig it, the sequel is out now – Atlas Paradox.

Fairy Tale by Stephen King

A modern myth from the iconic, multi-award-winning author. Charlie Reade is your average high school student, but he carries a heavy load outside of school. His mother was killed in a hit-and-run accident, and his dad copes with her death by drinking. Charlie’s life takes a huge turn when his neighbor leaves him a house that contains a pile of gold and a cassette tape that tells an unbelievable story. That story leads him to a shed in the backyard that holds a portal to another world–one where he can be a hero.

Nettle & Bone by T. Kingfisher

Marra, the youngest of three sisters, realizes that no one is coming to save them from the cruel prince they’ve been given to. So, she sets out to do it herself with the help of a powerful gravewitch, On her quest, Marra is joined by the gravewitch, a reluctant fairy godmother, a former knight, and a chicken possessed by a demon. Together they gather the tools and strength to take on the prince and free the entire kingdom.

For fans of Patricia C. Wrede, Tamora Pierce, and Terry Pratchett. You’ll feel at home here.

Spear by Nicola Griffith

A reimagining of the story of Percival, the Welsh Grail Knight of Arthurian legend. It’s well-researched, but the story isn’t hindered by it. Griffith’s writing is beautiful and poetic.

A nameless young girl grows up in a cave with her mother in the wilds. She has visions of a faraway lake and knows she is destined for more than this. When she hears a traveler speak of King Artos, she knows she belongs in his court. The nameless dons mended armor and rides to Caer Leon – and has many adventures on the way.

Siren Queen by Nghi Vo

Luli Wei is a talented, beautiful actress that’s desperate to be a star in Hollywood, where monsters aren’t just on the screen and magic is real. The studios run on a system of ancient magic, which is powered by the endless blood sacrifice of starlets. The price of fame is high, and the odds are stacked against her, but Luli is ambitious and willing to pay. She wants to be a star, even if it means becoming a monster herself.

This is my pick for film buffs–the book is set in 1930s Hollywood, the golden age. It brings the studio system, the politics of the era, and fantasy elements together seamlessly.

The Spear Cuts Through Water by Simon Jimenez

This sweeping adventure story also delves into identity, legacy, and belonging. The rule of a tyrannical family holds a kingdom in a choking grip thanks to an ancient god they keep locked beneath their palace. But that god cannot be contained forever. Two warriors free the god and shepherd her across a crumbling land while facing untold dangers and the tyrants that want her back.