The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna

I have so many 5 star fantasy books, so I thought I’d go with a more recent one. I feel like I don’t talk about it nearly enough because I absolutely adored this book! It was a cinematic masterpiece in book form and I loved every second of it. The world-building was lush and vivid, the characters were compelling, and the plot was perfectly paced. I’m super eager to get my hands on the sequel coming out next year!

Raybearer by Jordan Ifueko

And here we have the reason why I never talk about other fantasy books. It’s because I’m always talking about this one 😂 What can I say? The Raybearer duology is just stunning. I wish I could meet Tarisai, that’s how much I love her character. I loved the world of Aritsar. And I loved the found family aspect and discussions of how emotional abuse can affect someone. It’s a beautiful book and I will recommend it until everyone has read it.

The Jasmine Throne by Tasha Suri

Hahaha, THERE ARE SO MANY! But one I recently required and am desperate to read is The Jasmine Throne. I’ve heard nothing but rave reviews from reviewers I trust. And my Illumicrate edition is extra pretty. I know you’re not supposed to judge a book by it’s cover buuuut… a pretty cover does get me 😂 I’m hoping to pick this one up soon!

The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern

I’m currently re-reading The Night Circus and it’s reallllly making me want to re-read this one, too! I adore Morgenstern’s writing and there is something extra special about this one. At least to me… I know quite a few people who didn’t get on with this book. But, to me, this will be a forever favorite.

The Rage of Dragons by Evan Winter

This is such an intense series and one of my favorite things about it is the world. Evan Winter does a fantastic job of crafting the world of the Omehi and all their traditions and customs. It makes the book that much more engaging and thrilling. I’m not saying I’d want to live there… I would be dead within weeks! But it sounds absolutely fascinating.

Black Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse

Seeming as this is inspired by the Pre-Columbian Americas, I figured this counts as something earthbound. Just, ya know, a lot more interesting! This was such a vividly crafted book, to the point that I found it easy to visualize the world that Roanhorse has created. And what a beautiful and deadly world it is! This was such an incredible read that I still think about after reading earlier this year. I’m so hyped for the sequel!