Books Like...

Readers found "The Queen of Ieflaria" to be a fantasy novel featuring queer princesses, unique characters, and an engaging plot. The story revolves around Esofi and Adale, two princesses in an arranged marriage, who navigate their differences in views on science and religion while growing individually and together. The book also includes elements such as duels, dragons, magical creatures, and princesses in love, creating a rich and diverse world with a focus on relationships and character development.

'Of Fire and Stars' by Audrey Coulthurst follows Princess Denna of Havemont, who is betrothed to the Prince of Mynaria but harbors a dangerous secret – a magical ability to create fire. As she navigates her arranged marriage, she finds herself drawn to her betrothed's sister, Princess Mare, leading to a blossoming love story amidst political intrigue and discrimination against magic users. The narrative explores themes of forbidden romance, court intrigue, and the challenges faced by LGBTQIA characters within a fantasy setting, with a focus on character relationships and the development of a complex magical world.

The writing style of 'Of Fire and Stars' is described as engaging, with a good balance of world-building and character development. Readers appreciate the normalization of LGBTQ relationships in the story and the emphasis on strong female characters who challenge traditional gender roles. The novel offers a refreshing take on fantasy romance, featuring a slow-burn romance between Princess Denna and Princess Mare, set against a backdrop of magic, political tensions, and personal growth.

The Space Between by Michelle L. Teichman is a young adult high school coming-of-age story that follows two girls, Harper and Sarah, navigating through high school while trying to understand their feelings for each other. The plot delves into the struggles of the characters, particularly Harper and Sarah, as they face realistic challenges amplified by holding in secrets. The writing style is described as flowing and professional, with the story being told from both Sarah and Harper's point of view, allowing readers to engage with their journey of self-discovery and growth.

In "The Affair of the Mysterious Letter" by Alexis Hall, readers are taken on a fantastical journey through a queer fantasy world where Sherlock Holmes is reimagined as the pansexual sorceress Shaharazad Haas and John Watson becomes Captain John Wyndham, a shy and polite trans man. Set in the alternate universe of Khelathra Ven, the duo navigates through a steampunk urban center, encountering sky pirates, vampires, underwater cities, and necromancers. The narrative, reminiscent of Sherlock Holmes mysteries, is filled with humor, surreal elements, and intricate worldbuilding, culminating in a thrilling and imaginative adventure.

The story unfolds with a captivating twist on the Holmes-Watson dynamic, as Wyndham narrates their escapades with Haas in a charmingly Victorian style peppered with modern slang. The plot intricately weaves together elements of mystery, fantasy, and humor, offering a fresh and queer take on classic tropes. As the duo investigates a blackmail case involving Haas' former lover, the narrative takes readers on a wild ride through reality-bending gods, time-travel, and various magical realms, all while exploring themes of friendship, adventure, and self-discovery.

Labyrinth Lost follows the story of Alejandra Mortiz, a bruja who wants to reject her magical powers but ends up accidentally sending her family into another world called Los Lagos during a ceremony. She embarks on a journey to rescue them, with the help of a boy she doesn't fully trust. The book delves into Latin American indigenous American mythology, exploring themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the bonds of family and friendship. The writing style introduces readers to a world of brujas, Deos, and mystical beasts, blending mythological lore with a coming-of-age narrative.

'Sweet & Bitter Magic' by Adrienne Tooley follows the story of Tamsin, a powerful witch banished from her coven for using dark magic to save her twin sister. Cursed with the inability to love, she trades for others' love to feel something. When a plague hits the world due to dark magic, Tamsin teams up with Wren, a magical source, to try and save the world. Their journey together is filled with elements of family, grief, and love magic, with a touch of humor, romance, and a fairy tale-like atmosphere.

Breaking Legacies by Zoe Reed follows the story of Kiena Thaon, a skilled hunter and tracker living in a world filled with rebellion, politics, and betrayal. When tasked with finding a runaway princess, Ava Gavestonis, Kiena embarks on a quest that leads to a revolution. The book is praised for its multilayered storytelling, detailed character development, and the palpable chemistry between the main characters, Kiena and Ava. The writing style is described as engaging, with a mix of fantasy and romance elements that keep readers invested in the epic adventure.

Santa Olivia is a small town trapped between two walls on the border of Mexico and Texas, isolated from the rest of the world after a pandemic. The story follows Loup, a genetically enhanced girl with extraordinary abilities, including strength, speed, and fearlessness. Despite the harsh setting and challenges faced by the townspeople, Loup emerges as a hero figure, navigating through relationships, boxing tournaments, and a quest for justice. The writing style in "Santa Olivia" is described as engaging, fast-paced, and character-driven, focusing on themes of resilience, identity, and rebellion against oppressive forces.

Infinity Son follows the story of two brothers, Brighton and Emil, living in an alternative New York where powerful beings, phoenixes, and magic exist. The plot revolves around the brothers navigating a world full of celestials and power, with Emil's fascination with phoenixes contrasting Brighton's obsession with fame. The writing style is a mix of fantasy elements and modern-day issues, exploring themes of humanity, friendship, identity, and family without being heavy-handed or preachy.

Danny Cheng, a gifted artist, is navigating the challenges of school, college aspirations, race issues, and unearthing family secrets while dealing with his feelings for his best friend, Harry. As the story unfolds, the book delves into themes of friendship, family, immigration, secrets, and the complexities of teenage life. With a mix of mystery, emotional depth, and well-defined characters, "Picture Us in the Light" follows Danny's journey of self-discovery and confronting the past to shape his future.

The narrative of the book is intricately woven, touching on themes of love, loss, identity, and the struggles faced by Asian American teens. Through Danny's exploration of his family's past, his relationships with friends, and his artistic pursuits, the story captures the essence of coming-of-age, cultural clashes, and the search for belonging in a world filled with uncertainties and hidden truths.