Books Like...
"Phoenix Extravagant" by Yoon Ha Lee is a fantasy novel set in a secondary fantasy world inspired by Asian countries like Korea, Japan, and China. The story follows Jebi, a nonbinary artist who is forced to work for the invaders controlling their country, leading Jebi to uncover dark secrets about the destruction of art and artifacts to create magical pigments for automatons. Jebi's journey involves political intrigue, rebellion, and a forbidden romance with a duelist named Vei, all while navigating complex societal themes and a unique magical system involving special paints and automatons.
The book is praised for its originality, world-building, and the exploration of themes such as art, gender, and family honor. Readers appreciate the diverse representation of nonbinary and gay characters, the intricate magical elements tied to the story's history, and the engaging plot that balances political thriller elements with character-driven narratives. The writing style is described as beautiful, nuanced, and immersive, with a focus on exploring the inner values of humans through the characters' perspectives and moral struggles.
If you liked Phoenix Extravagant, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
Save:The Black Tides of Heaven by Neon Yang is a fantasy novella set in a world where people get to choose their gender and don't have one until they do. The story follows two siblings and their diverging paths in a magical kingdom ruled by a tyrannical queen. The book explores themes of gender identity, family dynamics, and societal structures in a unique and engrossing manner. The writing style is described as rich and powerful, with a focus on character development and world-building.
He stood at the foot of the staircase leading to the Great High Palace of the Protectorate: that sprawling, magnificent edifice that few across the land would ever gain the privilege of seeing up clos... - #2
Save:In the novella 'Finna' by Nino Cipri, readers are taken on a wild adventure through a multiverse of IKEA-like stores where wormholes lead to alternate dimensions. The story follows exes Ava and Jules as they navigate their complicated relationship while trying to find a missing person in these bizarre worlds. The writing style is a blend of humor, satire, and cosmic horror, with sharp commentary on corporate culture and capitalism woven into the narrative.
The bus abandoned Ava on the outskirts of LitenVärld’s vast parking lot, nearly three-quarters of a mile from the doors. The box store stuck out like a giant square pimple on the landscape, which had ... - #3
Save:'She Who Became the Sun' by Shelley Parker Chan is a historical fantasy novel set in 14th century China under Mongol rule. The story follows Zhu, a girl who takes on her deceased brother's identity to escape a fate of insignificance and embarks on a journey to claim greatness. The narrative weaves themes of ambition, identity, and destiny, portraying Zhu's struggle against societal expectations and her desire for power and revenge. The book combines elements of fantasy, Asian culture, and historical events, creating a rich and immersive world where characters face moral dilemmas and challenges that test their resolve.
Zhongli village lay flattened under the sun like a defeated dog that has given up on finding shade. All around there was nothing but the bare yellow earth, cracked into the pattern of a turtle’s shell... - #4
Save:'The Raven Tower' by Ann Leckie is a unique fantasy novel that delves into the relationship between gods and humans, exploring the consequences of a world where gods' words hold immense power. The story follows a murder mystery in a fantasy setting, narrated by an ageless god fixed in a stone, and a quiet soldier named Eolo who sets out to solve the mystery of a missing leader and a deceased god, all while navigating complex political and supernatural dynamics. The writing style of the book is described as original, inventive, and thought-provoking, with a second-person narration that offers a fresh perspective on the fantasy genre.
I first saw you when you rode out of the forest, past the cluster of tall, bulge-eyed offering stakes that mark the edges of the forest, your horse at a walk. You rode beside Mawat, himself a familiar... - #5
Save:'To Shape a Dragon's Breath' in the series 'Nampeshiweisit' by Moniquill Blackgoose is a fantasy novel set in an alternate timeline where dragons exist. The story follows a young woman named Anequs who comes from a marginalized community and unexpectedly receives a dragon egg. In order to save her dragon, she must travel to the Dragon Academy on the mainland. The book explores themes of friendship, family, cultural differences, and the struggle against colonial rule. The writing style is engaging, with well-developed characters and a plot that keeps readers hooked till the end.
The novel delves into a world where Scandinavian countries conquered western Europe, leading to a unique blend of cultures and languages. It addresses contemporary issues such as racism, polygamy, elitism, and politics, all while weaving in elements of fantasy and dragon lore. The book is a coming-of-age story that resonates with readers who enjoy dragon-themed fantasy and appreciate rich world-building with thought-provoking themes.
- #6
Save:'Dragonfall' by L.R. Lam is a fantasy novel that follows the story of Everen, a dragon who is magically bonded to a human thief named Arcady. The book explores their journey as they navigate a world where dragons are exiled to a dying realm and humans have a different perspective on the history between the two species. The plot involves treachery, magic, dragons, friendship, and love, with multiple points of view providing insight into the characters' minds. The writing style includes vivid world-building, intricate social structures, and a slow-burn romance between a human and a dragon.
- #7
Save:Freshwater by Akwaeke Emezi is a unique and compelling novel that delves into the experiences of Ada, a young woman with multiple personalities shaped by trauma and traditional Igbo spirituality. The book explores themes of internal conflict, mental illness, and self-discovery through the lens of Ada's relationships with the spirits inhabiting her body. The narrative is described as raw, visceral, and deeply disturbing, with a focus on Ada's struggles to navigate her identity and existence between two worlds.
We were three and she was a snake, coiled up on the tile in the bathroom, waiting. But we had spent the last few years believing our body—thinking that our mother was someone different, a thin human w... - #8
Save:The Empress of Salt and Fortune by Nghi Vo is a fantasy novella that follows a non-binary cleric named Chih as they visit a house where a former empress was exiled. The story unfolds as Rabbit, the empress's old servant, gradually reveals the true story behind the empress's rise to power, fall from grace, and eventual resurgence. Through a series of flashbacks and present-day interactions, the novella delves into themes of memory, storytelling, female empowerment, and the overlooked voices of women in historical records. The narrative is rich in world-building, with a unique storytelling style that weaves together the past and present, creating a poignant and thought-provoking tale.
Chiming bells. Chih rolled to their feet, glancing around the perimeter and squinting at the jangling string of bells that surrounded the small campsite. For a moment, they were back at the abbey in S... - #9
Save:A Master of Djinn by P. Djeli Clark is a steampunk mystery novel set in an alternative version of 1912 Cairo where djinn, angels, and other mythical creatures coexist with humanity. The story follows Agent Fatma el Sha'arawi, the first woman operative for the Ministry of Alchemy, Enchantments, and Supernatural Entities, as she investigates a series of murders connected to an imposter claiming to be Al Jahiz, a sorcerer whose actions brought supernatural entities into the world. The plot unfolds with a mix of fantasy, mystery, and historical elements, offering a unique blend of world-building and character development. The writing style is described as fast-paced, imaginative, and engaging, with themes of colonialism, patriarchy, and class interwoven into the narrative.
Archibald James Portendorf disliked stairs. With their ludicrous lengths, ever leading up, as if in some jest. There were times, he thought, he could even hear them snickering. If these stairs had eye... - #10
Save:The Story of Silence by Alex Myers is a novel set in medieval Europe that explores gender identity and the nature vs. nurture debate. The story follows Silence, who is raised as a boy despite being assigned female at birth, as they navigate the challenges of self-discovery and understanding their true identity. The book delves into Silence's inner struggles and growth, while also incorporating elements of medieval romance and themes of queerness. Myers skillfully weaves a tale that is both reflective and character-driven, drawing readers into a world where identity is redefined and explored.
Once there were twin girls, born – perfect and beautiful – to Earl Le Valle. Their mother died when they were but infants, and their father raised them to be pleasant, mild, and diligent alike. He dot...
