When Addie La Rue makes a pact with the devil, she trades her soul for immortality. But there's always a price - the devil takes away her place in the world, cursing her to be forgotten by everyone. Addie flees her tiny hometown in 18th-Century France, beginning a journey that takes her across the world, learning to live a life where no one remembers her and everything she owns is lost and broken. Existing only as a muse for artists throughout history, she learns to fall in love anew every single day. Her only companion on this journey is her dark devil with hypnotic green eyes, who visits her each year on the anniversary of their deal. Alone in the world, Addie has no choice but to confront him, to understand him, maybe to beat him. Until one day, in a second hand bookshop in Manhattan, Addie meets someone who remembers her. Suddenly thrust back into a real, normal life, Addie realises she can't escape her fate forever.
An American author known for her young adult and adult fantasy novels featuring intricate magic systems, compelling characters, and fast-paced plots. Her Shades of Magic series and The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue have gained popularity for their imaginative worlds, diverse characters, and exploration of themes like identity, immortality, and the power of stories. Schwab's engaging writing style and imaginative concepts have made her a beloved author in the fantasy genre.
by V.E. Schwab
Series: Villains (#1)
In 'Vicious' by V.E. Schwab, readers are immersed in a gripping tale of ambition, betrayal, and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy. The story follows two former college friends turned archnemeses, Victor and Eli, who possess extraordinary abilities gained through a dangerous experiment that fractures their bond and sets them on a collision course. As the narrative unfolds, themes of power, morality, and the consequences of unchecked ambition are masterfully explored, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the final page. Schwab's dynamic characters and intricate plot make 'Vicious' a standout in the realm of dark fantasy and anti-hero narratives.
by V.E. Schwab
In V.E. Schwab's 'Vengeful,' the electrifying sequel to 'Vicious,' readers are plunged back into a world of extraordinary individuals with supernatural abilities. The narrative intricately weaves themes of revenge, power, and morality, as old adversaries clash in a battle of wits and strength. With complex characters like Victor Vale and Eli Ever battling their inner demons and external threats, the novel offers a gripping exploration of the grey areas between heroism and villainy. Schwab's razor-sharp prose and expert pacing keep readers on the edge of their seats until the explosive conclusion. 'Vengeful' is a thrilling, thought-provoking ride through a dark and compelling universe.
by V.E. Schwab
Series: Shades of Magic (#1)
V.E. Schwab's "A Darker Shade of Magic" introduces readers to a richly-woven multiverse where four parallel Londons exist, each with varying degrees of magic. At the heart of the story is Kell, one of the last 'Antari'—rare magicians capable of traveling between the worlds. The narrative unfolds as Kell, paralleled by the spirited thief Delilah Bard, navigates a dangerous mission that could destroy all the Londons. Themes of power, ambition, and identity are deftly explored through Schwab's intricate world-building and compelling characters. This novel captivates the imagination, blending fantasy and adventure with a distinctive twist that leaves a lasting impact.
by V.E. Schwab
Series: Shades of Magic (#2)
In 'A Gathering of Shadows', the second installment of V.E. Schwab’s 'Shades of Magic' series, readers are swept back into the fascinating world of parallel Londons, each imbued with varying levels of magical power. The narrative picks up four months after the events of the first book, as the enigmatic magician Kell, now recovering from his ordeals, navigates the political machinations within Red London. The novel deftly explores themes of identity, redemption, and power, while introducing new characters, such as the daring pirate captain Alucard Emery. Schwab's storytelling is immersive, with action-packed sequences and a complex plot filled with twists, leading to an electrifying magical tournament. This sequel deepens the series' lore and sets the stage for a compelling trilogy conclusion. Schwab’s strength lies in her intricate world-building and vivid character development, ensuring readers remain captivated throughout.
by V.E. Schwab
Series: Shades of Magic (#3)
A Conjuring of Light, the thrilling conclusion to V.E. Schwab's Shades of Magic trilogy, plunges readers into a mesmerizing world where magic, politics, and personal loyalties are tightly interwoven. The novel follows Kell, a magician with a rare gift to traverse parallel Londons, and his allies - the daring Delilah Bard and the charismatic prince Rhy. As they face an unprecedented threat that endangers all worlds, the stakes have never been higher. Schwab masterfully develops her characters, imbuing them with depth and growth amidst the chaos. The narrative explores themes of power, friendship, and sacrifice, while delivering a page-turning, heart-pounding adventure that leaves a lasting impact long after the final page is turned.
by Renee Ahdieh
Series: The Wrath and the Dawn (#1)
In Renee Ahdieh's captivating novel 'The Wrath and the Dawn,' readers are transported to a lush world filled with intrigue, romance, and vengeance. The story centers around Shahrzad, who volunteers to marry the Caliph, Khalid, a ruler known for taking a new bride each night and executing her at dawn. Determined to avenge her best friend's death, Shahrzad weaves enchanting stories to captivate Khalid, unraveling mysteries and discovering unexpected truths. Ahdieh masterfully explores themes of love, loyalty, and sacrifice against a backdrop of Middle Eastern folklore and political intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the gripping conclusion.
In this lyrical retelling of Greek mythology, the awkward young prince Patroclus falls in love with the legendary warrior Achilles. As they grow from boys to men, their bond is tested by fate, war, and the gods themselves. Set against the backdrop of the Trojan War, the novel explores themes of love, honor, and the cost of greatness.
1806. England is beleaguered by the long war, and centuries have passed since magicians faded from view. But one remains: the reclusive Mr Norrell. Proceeding to London, he raises a woman from the dead and summons an army of ghostly ships to terrify the French. Yet the cautious Norrell is challenged by the emergence of another magician. Young, handsome and daring, Jonathan Strange is his very antithesis. So begins a dangerous battle between these two great men - which overwhelms that between England and France. And soon their own secret dabblings with the dark arts are going to cause more trouble than they can imagine.
Alix E. Harrow’s The Ten Thousand Doors of January is a historical fantasy about January Scaller, a girl who discovers magical doors that lead to other worlds. Living under the care of a wealthy collector in early 1900s America, she finds a book that reveals hidden truths about her past—and the power of stories to reshape reality. As January seeks to reclaim her identity and navigate between worlds, she battles forces that seek to close the doors forever. A beautifully written novel about transformation, freedom, and the power of words, it’s a love letter to imagination and possibility.