There’s something about a powerhouse female protagonist that makes me happy. Perhaps it’s because the majority of beloved fantasy novels feature male protagonists. Perhaps it’s because books about women are less likely to win prizes. Maybe it’s because I like reading about women I can look up to.
Whatever the reason, fantasy novels that feature strong women are something we’re wholeheartedly excited about at NewInBooks. If you love fantasy and want a few recommendations on great new books to read that feature powerhouse women, check out our book list below!
Best New Fantasy Books with Female Protagonists: Book List for 2015
Rider’s Revenge
Alessandra Clarke
Release Date: September 29, 2015
Why read it: it’s a coming-of-age adventure fantasy featuring K’lrsa, who is on an a mission to avenge her father’s murder. It’s set in a world that you’ll love exploring. Alessandra Clarke’s debut novel reads like a seasoned author’s work.
Letters to Zell
Camille Griep
Release Date: July 1, 2015
Why read it: there are no damsels in distress in this fairy tale. Author Camille Griep discards the stories of CInderella, Snow White, Rapunzel, and Sleeping Beauty and gives these beloved characters the agency to follow their dreams.
Darken the Stars
Amy A. Bartol
Release Date: September 8, 2015
Why read it: Amy A. Bartol’s Kricket series explores fantasy tropes we’re all familiar with: a patriarchial society, prophecies, and a mysterious Brotherhood. But Kricket refuses to be used by those around her – she’s determined to shape her future for herself.
The Master Magician
Charlie N. Holmberg
Release Date: June 2, 2015
Why read it: this is the third book in the wildly-popular Paper Magician Series. Follow magician Ceony Twill, who has a secret – she knows how to practice forms of magic other than her own. In this third installment, Ceony is preparing to take her final magician’s exam – all while facing a criminal who wants revenge on Ceony.
As Black as Ebony
Salla Simukka
Release Date: August 4, 2015
Why read it: Salla Simukka’s Snow White Trilogy is a fantastic YA fantasy series starring seventeen-year-old Lumikki Andersson. It incorporates fantasy, fairy tale, thriller, and literary elements into one amazing trilogy. Note: we recommend reading this series in order (As Black as Ebony is book 3).
The Banished of Muirwood
Jeff Wheeler
Release Date: August 18, 2015
Why read it: Jeff Wheeler explores concepts of gender inequality and unequal access in his new epic fantasy series. Follow Maia, an exiled princess living as a servant, as she flees and hones her magic that she learned in secret (in a world where magic is forbidden to women).
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