Empire of Exiles by Erin M. Evans begins with a murder that takes the main characters into the lingering effects of a failed coup in the recent past. Secrets are uncovered that were best left hidden, and the very balance of the empire may once again be at stake. Highly recommended.
Fantasy
Review: Pulling the Wings Off Angels
Pulling the Wings Off Angels by K.J. Parker is an excellent novella that will keep you glued to the page. Florio, a thug, is looking for an angel, and he found a man with one in the family. Highly recommended.
Review: Notorious Sorcerer
Notorious Sorcerer by Davinia Evans follows Siyon Velo's unique education in alchemy. An act of public magic sets Siyon and Bezim itself on a path towards salvation or armageddon. Highly recommended.
Review: Babel
Babel by R.F. Kuang tells the story of Robin Swift, a boy caught up in the games of empire. His journey is a moving tale of complicity. Does he continue to take the luxuries empire provides him - though it will never accept as fully human - or does he attempt to change the empire? Kuang's story still haunts me. Highly recommended.
Review: The First Binding
The First Binding by R.R. Virdi is fantasy to fall in love with. It's an excellent world filled with characters that move you. This book is an instant classic. Highly recommended.
Review: Second Spear
Second Spear by Kerstin Hall cements the Mkalis Cycle as an imaginative fantasy series worth reading. Highly recommended.
Review: Daughter of Redwinter
Ed McDonald's Daughter of Redwinter blew me away. This slim fantasy novel is packed with action, magic, and mystery while giving readers characters to root for, to care for, and to hope for. Highly recommended.
Review: In the Shadow of Lightning
Brian McClellan delivers another innovative magical system in a fantastic society on the verge of magical collapse. In the Shadow of Lightning will please any fantasy fans and especially fans of Brandon Sanderson. Highly recommended.
Review: The Middling Affliction
The Middling Affliction by Alex Shvartsman is a wonderful opening to the Conradverse Chronicles. This urban fantasy dives right into a deep mystery of Shvartsman's world, and its main character, Conrad Brent, will never be the same. Recommended.
Review: The Stardust Thief
Chelsea Abdullah's The Stardust Thief opens the Sandsea Trilogy with a bang. This character-rich fantasy belongs on every SFF fans shelf. Fans of Brandon Sanderson and Catherynne M. Valente will love this book. Highly recommended.