This is a book about shadow magicians, stolen grimoires, and con artistry, but it’s also a book about hidden selves, and coming back from giving up. And I wanted to write about the grind of adulthood, the disappointments and the bills and the ruts it's easy to fall into. I wanted to write about someone who wasn’t making that first bad choice, but who was sitting at the end of a road of bad choices, and who might not have another chance to turn things around.

For one, I wanted to write about someone who was already in an established, complicated, imperfect relationship. What drew you to crafting this story in particular as one belonging in the adult genre, and how do you feel about making the leap?Īfter two decades of writing books for kids and teens, there were some things that I was itching to do that weren’t right for that space. Your Folk of Air series is beloved by so many, but Book of Night is your very first adult fantasy novel. It feels like only yesterday I was listening to the audio version of the Curse Workers series (which is now over a decade old!).

There's never been a better time to get swept away in the magic and adventure of a really great fantasy book.Having written over 30 fantasy novels for kids and teens, you've been a huge name in the young adult literature space for quite some time now. Some releases take inspiration from folklore worldwide, with exciting and creative twists on all the creatures, stories, and tropes you love in your favorite fantasy fiction. No matter what fantasy style you enjoy most, there's sure to be something you'll love among this year's best new fantasy reads. There are also new stories from beloved authors like Rebecca Yarros, Claire Legrand, Andrea Stewart, Alexandra Bracken, Tahereh Mafi, Shannon Chakraborty, Caroline Peckham, and Susanne Valenti, plus fresh voices introducing us to their creative, fantastical new worlds full of mystery and romance. Long-running stories are finally coming to epic conclusions, with authors like Cassandra Clare wrapping up series this year. This year's fantasy books offer plenty to choose from. Fortunately, there are plenty of choices for escapism in 2023, with a slew of phenomenal new fantasy books to transport you to worlds of myth and magic. Sometimes, it can feel like the real world is too much to handle.

Image Sources: and Photo Illustration: Ava Cruz

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