Books Like...

"The Woman Who Rides Like a Man" is the third installment in the 'Song of the Lioness' series by Tamora Pierce. It follows Alanna, who has achieved knighthood and embarks on a journey to discover herself and her place in the world. Alanna travels to the desert, encounters new challenges, learns diplomacy and magic, and becomes a teacher to young students. explores themes of adventure, self-discovery, gender equality, and the complexities of relationships.

Alanna's character growth, her interactions with the Bazhir tribe, the introduction of new cultures, and the subtle hints of future conflicts are key elements of the book. The plot delves into Alanna's quest for independence and empowerment, her refusal to conform to societal expectations, and her determination to uphold her dreams and values amidst changing relationships and environments.

'The Savage Damsel and the Dwarf' by Gerald Morris is a fast-paced and witty take on King Arthur and his round table, featuring characters like Lynet, Roger, Terence, and Robin. The story follows Lady Lynet's quest to save her family's castle from the Knight of the Red Lands, where instead of a knight, she is given a kitchen hand named Beaumains. Along the way, she befriends a dwarf, learns about her magical heritage, and encounters a colorful group of knights. is filled with humor, action, romance, and wit, making it an entertaining and engaging read with a rough-edged elegance in its storytelling.

Exquisite Captive by Heather Demetrios is a captivating tale that delves into the life of Nalia, the last of her royal jinni caste, who is forced into slavery by Malek, a ruthless businessman. The story unfolds as Nalia struggles to find her freedom, facing complex relationships with Malek and Raif, a rebel leader, while navigating a world filled with magical beings and dark secrets. Demetrios weaves a tale of love, power, and redemption, exploring themes of identity, freedom, and the complexities of relationships in a vividly described jinni world.

Through intricate world-building and character development, Heather Demetrios paints a vivid picture of the jinni society, their powers, and their struggles, inviting readers into a fantastical realm filled with rich folklore and mysticism. The narrative follows Nalia's emotional journey as she uncovers hidden truths about herself and her past, leading her to question her loyalties and desires, ultimately shaping her path towards self-discovery and empowerment.

'Illusions of Fate' by Kiersten White is a YA fantasy novel set in a world filled with magic, political intrigue, and danger. The story follows Jessamin, a young woman from an island colony who travels to the aristocratic country of Albion for an education. There, she meets Finn, a charming nobleman, and is drawn into a world of secret spells, magical birds, and evil plots. As their lives intertwine, Jessamin must navigate through a world where things are not as they seem, and she must make choices that will determine her fate.

The book combines elements of historical fiction, magic, romance, and adventure, creating a fantastical world reminiscent of Victorian London in an alternate reality. White's descriptive writing and engaging characters bring the early 20th-century inspired setting to life, making it a must-read for fans of YA fantasy. The story addresses themes of colonialism, prejudice, and self-determination, adding depth to the light-hearted romp filled with manners, magic, and intrigue.

Dragon's Bait by Vivian Vande Velde is a story about Alys, a young girl falsely accused of witchcraft and staked out as an offering to a dragon. Instead of being eaten, the dragon, Selendrile, offers to help Alys get revenge on those who wronged her. Together, they embark on a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, leading to a deeper understanding of each other's characters and motivations. The book explores themes of vengeance, friendship, and the consequences of seeking revenge, all set within a medieval village backdrop.

The writing style of Dragon's Bait is described as light and engaging, with a focus on adventure and romance. The plot unfolds quickly, keeping the readers hooked as Alys and Selendrile navigate through their quest for revenge and self-discovery. The characters, especially Alys, are portrayed as strong and imperfect, adding depth to the story and making it relatable to young adult readers.

Sorcerer to the Crown by Zen Cho is a Regency fantasy novel set in an alternate version of early 19th century England where magic is a prevalent force. The story follows Zacharias Wythe, a black Sorcerer Royal, and Prunella Gentleman, a young woman with great magical gifts, as they navigate a society filled with prejudice, intrigue, and a dwindling magic supply. The book combines elements of Regency England, magical realism, and social commentary, creating a whimsical yet thought-provoking narrative reminiscent of works like Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell.

The Spellshop is a cozy fantasy that revolves around a socially awkward female main character (FMC), who is a librarian navigating her life amidst magical elements. The story is set on a charming island where she interacts with a variety of whimsical creatures, including sentient talking plants and merhorses. The plot showcases her personal growth and the development of unexpected friendships, all while she engages with themes of knowledge and power through her love for books. It’s described as a slow-paced narrative with a lot of heart, focusing on slice-of-life moments rather than high-stakes adventures.

The writing style is characterized as warm and inviting, with many readers noting that it feels like a "warm hug." The author aims to create a delightful reading experience that emphasizes coziness and sweetness over intense drama or romance. The narrative is filled with lush details that evoke a cottagecore aesthetic, making it an ideal escape for those seeking comfort and light-hearted stories. The FMC's journey, while not heavily focused on romance, features a charming and supportive male main character (MMC) that complements her character beautifully.

'Shades of Milk and Honey' by Mary Robinette Kowal is a regency-era novel set in a world where magic, known as glamour, is used as a form of art and entertainment. The story follows the two Ellsworth sisters, Jane and Melody, as they navigate society's expectations, romantic entanglements, and the complexities of using glamour in their everyday lives. The writing style is reminiscent of Jane Austen, with elements of fantasy woven into the traditional regency drama, creating a unique blend of classic romance and magical realism.

'Inkheart' by Cornelia Funke is a fantasy novel that follows the story of a young girl named Meggie and her father Mo, who have the ability to read characters out of books. When Mo accidentally reads out a villain named Capricorn, along with other characters, their lives are forever changed. The book explores themes of adventure, fantasy, and the power of storytelling, as the characters navigate a world where fiction and reality collide. The plot is filled with action, suspense, and a touch of darkness, making it an engaging read for both young and older readers. The writing style is described as inventive, captivating, and filled with clever references to other books.

Half a Soul by Olivia Atwater is a Regency fantasy tale that follows the protagonist, Dora, who had half of her soul stolen by a faery lord in her childhood. This leads to her struggling with limited affect and navigating societal expectations in the Regency era. When Dora goes to London with her cousin to find a husband, she meets Lord Sorcier Elias Wilder, who offers to help her find a cure for her condition. The story unfolds with a mix of reluctant romance, friendships, mystery, and strength of spirit, set against the backdrop of English and Fae society politics.

The book is praised for its well-developed characters, particularly Dora and Elias, who stand out as sensible, passionate, and vulnerable individuals. The narrative is described as evenly paced, focusing on a solid story that keeps readers engaged and leaves a lasting message beyond the final page. Despite the lack of extensive world-building, readers find themselves engrossed in Elias' journey, Dora's self-discovery, and the engaging development of side characters, making the latter half of the book a swift and enjoyable read.