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Let’s Talk Retellings

Retellings offer the chance for authors to take a new perspective on classic tales, from fairytales gone wrong to history with a twist. Read on for some fresh new takes on old favorites! 

And check out Upon A Starlit Tide by Kell Woods, on sale today!


9781250852533Upon A Starlit Tide by Kell Woods

Upon a Starlit Tide is a dark and enchanting historical fantasy combining elements of “The Little Mermaid” and “Cinderella” into a wholly original tale of love, power, and betrayal.

Saint-Malo, Brittany, 1758. To Lucinde Leon, the youngest daughter of a wealthy French shipowner, the high walls of Saint-Malo are more hindrance than haven.
While her sisters are busy trying to secure advantageous marriages, Luce spends her days secretly being taught to sail by Samuel, her best friend—and an English smuggler. Only he understands how the waves call to her. Then one stormy morning, Luce rescues a drowning man from the sea.

Immediately drawn in by the stranger’s charm, Luce is plunged into a world of glittering balls and faerie magic, seduction and brutality. Secrets that have long been lost in the shadowy depths of the ocean begin to rise to the surface, but as Luce wrestles with warring desires, she finds that her own power is growing brighter and brighter, shining like a sea-glass slipper.

Or the scales of a sea-maid’s tail.

9781250244079 (2) A Sorceress Comes to Call by T. Kingfisher

From New York Times bestselling and Hugo Award-winning author T. Kingfisher comes Sorceress Comes to Call—a dark reimagining of the Brothers Grimm’s “The Goose Girl,” rife with secrets, murder, and forbidden magic. Cordelia knows her mother is . . . unusual. Their house doesn’t have any doors between rooms—there are no secrets in this house—and her mother doesn’t allow Cordelia to have a single friend. Unless you count Falada, her mother’s beautiful white horse. The only time Cordelia feels truly free is on her daily rides with him. But more than simple eccentricity sets her mother apart. Other mothers don’t force their daughters to be silent and motionless for hours, sometimes days, on end. Other mothers aren’t evil sorcerers. When her mother unexpectedly moves them into the manor home of a wealthy older Squire and his kind but keen-eyed sister, Hester, Cordelia knows this welcoming pair are to be her mother’s next victims. But Cordelia feels at home for the very first time among these people, and as her mother’s plans darken, she must decide how to face the woman who raised her to save the people who have become like family.

Destroyer of Light by Jennifer Marie BrissettDestroyer of Light by Jennifer Marie Brissett

This Afro-futuristic retelling of the Greek myth of Persephone is set after the Earth was destroyed from an alien invasion, and the rest of humanity has been sequestered to the planet Eleusis. In this world divided into four habitable zones – Day, Dusk, Dawn, and Night – a young girl is kidnapped from Dusk by a violent warlord, leaving her mother desperately searching. On another side of the planet, a search for a child born from a human and alien in a criminal underground trafficking ring for unknown purposes, and a young woman with inhuman powers rises through the ranks to become a soldier. These stories build to a boiling point when the fate of humans and aliens will be determined.

The Genesis of Misery by Neon YangThe Genesis of Misery by Neon Yang

Joan of Arc with mechas in space. Do we have your attention yet? This retelling delivers devious politicking, high-stakes ship battles, and ruminations on queerness and the nature of identity.

 

Image Placeholder of - 56She Who Became the Sun by Shelley Parker-Chan

Reimagining the rise to power of the Ming Dynasty’s founding emperor, She Who Became the Sun follows an unnamed girl who is destined for nothingness, while her brother is destined for greatness. But when her brother, Zhu Chongba dies, the girl decides to steal his identity to flee to a monastery and escape her own death. After her safe haven is destroyed, however, Zhu realizes she also has the chance to claim another future: her brother’s abandoned greatness.

In the Lives of Puppets paperback coverIn the Lives of Puppets by TJ Klune

Inspired by Carlo Collodi’s The Adventures of Pinocchio, and like Swiss Family Robinson meets Wall-EIn the Lives of Puppets is a masterful stand-alone fantasy adventure from the beloved author who brought you The House in the Cerulean Sea and Under the Whispering Door.

9780765392503Lady Hotspur by Tessa Gratton

In this genderbent retelling of Henry IV, the Lady Knights are sworn to defend the prospective heir, Banna Mora. But when a rebellion ousts Mora and replaces her with leader of the Lady Knights, Hal Bolingbrooke, Mora is forced to choose between letting a king-killer rule, or taking up arms against her childhood best friend. War between the two Princes is inevitable – but Lady Hotspur could turn the tides with her support.

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November 11th Book Recs: Charms, Spells, Witches, and More!

November 11th is MADE for magic! Known as 11/11, this day is all about good vibes, manifesting dreams, and maybe even a touch of mystical energy. What better way to embrace that spirit than by diving into tales of witchcraft, dark secrets, and spellbinding adventures?

Dive into our lineup of charming reads below!


9781250811967Witch Queen of Redwinter by Ed McDonald

Step into a world of grit and intrigue where Raine, a young woman with the unique ability to see the dead, embarks on a journey to confront her own destiny. Filled with dark magic and moral complexities, Witch Queen of Redwinter crafts a beautifully eerie atmosphere, perfect for fans of intense, character-driven fantasy.

book of night by holly blackBook of Night by Holly Black

Holly Black’s foray into adult fantasy introduces Charlie Hall, a con artist skilled in the art of manipulating shadows. This noir-tinged tale is drenched in dark magic, where secrets can alter reality and shadows hold power. With its gritty undertones and layered world, Book of Night is a compelling read for anyone intrigued by the darker side of magic.

9781250852496After the Forest by Kell Woods

A haunting twist on fairy tale lore, After the Forest reimagines classic tales through the eyes of a witch navigating a cursed land. Woods blends folklore with raw emotion, inviting readers into a world where old stories take on new meaning and witches must confront both magical and human challenges. This novel is a delightful tribute to the charm and danger of the enchanted forest.

A Sorceress Comes to CallA Sorceress Comes to Call by T. Kingfisher

T. Kingfisher brings her signature wit and creativity to A Sorceress Comes to Call, a magical retelling filled with unforgettable characters and a wild, chaotic charm. With dark magic, enchanted animals, and a sorceress mother with a penchant for mischief, this story is ideal for readers who crave whimsy and witchcraft in equal measure.

9781250906298Princess of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

Magic and royalty collide in Princess of Dune, a blend of sci-fi and fantasy that weaves witch-like power into the legendary Dune universe. For those who love high-stakes drama, political intrigue, and a fresh take on a classic saga, this novel is an enchanting addition to the Dune series that fans of mystical forces will relish.

9781250884855One for My Enemy by Olivie Blake

Olivie Blake spins a tale of rivalry and romance in One for My Enemy, where two families steeped in magic clash in a spellbinding, modern-day New York. This bewitching novel is laced with themes of loyalty, vengeance, and forbidden love, making it a darkly captivating read for fans of atmospheric urban fantasy.

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Our Favorite Foods in Fantasy!

Do you know what’s cooking in fantasy? With the release of the stunning new hardcover editions of Legends & Lattes and Bookshops & Bonedust, we’re re-visiting this yummy blog post. From treats to teas and everything in between, explore some of the most mouthwatering delicacies in our favorite food-filled fantasies below!


9781250342782Cinnamon rolls from Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree

Come take a load off at Viv’s cafe, the first & only coffee shop in Thune. Grand opening! In this novel of high fantasy and low stakes, Viv, the orc barbarian, cashes out of the warrior’s life with one final score and plans to open the first coffee shop the city of Thune has ever seen. And with that coffee shop comes a decadent menu of caffeinated beverages and sweet treats, including the most decadent giant cinnamon rolls we’ve ever seen. Out now! 

Donuts from Light From Uncommon Stars by Ryka AokiLight From Uncommon Stars by Ryka Aoki

Looking for a sweet treat to help start your day? Light From Uncommon Stars by Ryka Aoki is all of this and more! A defiantly joyful adventure set in California’s San Gabriel Valley, with cursed violins, Faustian bargains, and queer alien courtship over fresh-made donuts, the only thing sweeter than this story are the donuts that bring our favorite characters together.

Tea and scones from Under the Whispering Door by TJ KluneUnder the Whispering Door by TJ Klune

Welcome to Charon’s Crossing. The tea is hot, the scones are fresh, and the dead are just passing through. In this hilarious and haunting book from the New York Times bestselling author of The House in the Cerulean Sea, love and family are found over a cozy cup of tea and a hearty plate of scones.

The Book Eaters by Sunyi DeanBooks from The Book Eaters by Sunyi Dean

Can we snack on some delicious books? Alas, no, but that doesn’t mean we can’t devour The Book Eaters and appreciate the flavors author Sunyi Dean conveys in the book snacking. To The Family, spy novels are a peppery snack; romance novels are sweet and delicious. Eating a map can help them remember destinations, and children, when they misbehave, are forced to eat dry, musty pages from dictionaries. What kind of books would you want to devour?

Place holder  of - 60Party snacks from The Chosen and the Beautiful by Nghi Vo

Jordan Baker grows up in the most rarefied circles of 1920s American society—she has money, education, a killer golf handicap, and invitations to some of the most exclusive parties of the Jazz Age. And what comes with parties but some of our favorite snacks, and maybe a glass of champagne or two.

Order Legends & Lattes Here:

Image Place holder  of amazon- 22 Placeholder of bn -44 Image Placeholder of booksamillion- 26 ibooks2 7 Image Placeholder of bookshop- 37

Order Bookshops & Bonedust Here:

Poster Placeholder of amazon- 35 Place holder  of bn- 29 Poster Placeholder of booksamillion- 88 ibooks2 44 Place holder  of bookshop- 61

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Forge Thrillers To Get You in the Spirit for Spooky Season

Now that September is here, we’re sure you’ve started to see Halloween decor hit shelves in all the stores you frequent. Scary movies are popping up as “suggested for you” when you’re hunting for your next watch on Netflix. Food brands are releasing the spook-ified versions of your favorite treats. Your “for you page” is filling up with videos of content creators who are showing the latest trends for the upcoming spooky season. And we bet the wheels are already turning in your head as you gather ideas for what your Halloween costume will be this year! As the temperature begins to drop, the excitement for fall is on the rise. And we have a perfect list of books for you to dip into that will further get you in the mood for the arrival of spooky season! Check out these thrillers from Forge that are sure to send chills down your spine!


A Good Family by Matt Goldman

A Good Family

Katie Kuhlmann’s marriage is falling apart. But she has a secure job, her children are healthy, and her house, a new construction in the prestigious Country Club neighborhood of Edina, Minnesota, is beautiful. She can almost ignore the way her husband, Jack, has been acting–constantly checking his phone, not going to work, disappearing from the house only to show up again without explanation.

Tension in the Kuhlmann house only gets worse when Adam “Bagman” Ross, a mutual friend from college, happens to be in the neighborhood and in need of a place to stay. Jack is quick to welcome him into the sanctity of their home, but Jack’s strange behavior only gets worse, and Katie fears their new guest is also harboring a dark secret. As she begins to uncover the truth, she realizes that something is terribly wrong–and she must race to protect her family as danger closes in.

Devil’s Kitchen by Candice Fox

Devil's Kitchen

The firefighting crew of Engine 99 has spent years rushing fearlessly into the hot zone of major fires across New York City. This tight-knit, four person unit has faced danger head-on, saving countless lives and stopping raging fires before they can cause major destruction.

They’ve also stolen millions from banks, jewelry stores, and art galleries. Under the cover of saving the city, these men have used their knowledge and specialist equipment to become the most successful heist crew on the East Coast.

Andy Nearland, the newest member of Engine 99, is good at keeping secrets. She’s been brought on to help with their biggest job ever—hitting New York’s largest private storage facility, an expensive treasure trove for the rich and famous.

She’s also an undercover operative, charged with bringing the crew to justice.

Keeping Andy’s true motives hidden proves more and more dangerous as tempers flare and loyalties are tested. And as the clock counts down to the crew’s most daring heist yet, her cover might just go up in flames…

One Wrong Word by Hank Phillippi Ryan

One Wrong Word

One wrong word can ruin your life. And no one knows that better than savvy crisis management expert Arden Ward. Problem is, she’s now forced to handle a shocking crisis of her own. Unfairly accused of having an affair with a powerful client, Arden’s life and dreams are about to crash and burn. Then, Arden is given an ultimatum. She has just two weeks to save her career and her reputation.

Is Cordelia Bannister the answer to her prayers?

Cordelia needs Arden’s help for her husband Ned, a Boston real estate mogul. Though he was recently acquitted in a fatal drunk driving accident, his reputation is ruined, and the fallout is devastating not only to the Bannisters’ lives, but the lives of their two adorable children.

Arden devotes her skill and determination –and maybe her final days on the job–to helping this shattered family, but soon, revelations begin to emerge about what really happened the night of the accident. And then—another car crash throws Ned back into the spotlight.

This case is Arden’s final chance to protect her own future and clear her name. But the more she tries to untangle the truth, the more she’s haunted by one disturbing question—what if she’s also protecting a killer?

Gossip. Lies. Rumors. Words like that can hurt you. And Arden knows the reality. Sometimes one wrong word can kill.

Such a Lovely Family by Aggie Blum Thompson

Such a Lovely Family

The cherry blossoms are in full bloom in Washington, D.C., and the Calhouns are in the midst of hosting their annual party to celebrate the best of the spring season. With a house full of friends, neighbors, and their beloved three adult children, the Calhouns are expecting another picture-perfect event. But a brutal murder in the middle of the celebration transforms the yearly gathering into a homicide scene, and all the guests into suspects.

Behind their façade of perfection, the Calhoun family has been keeping some very dark secrets. Parents who use money and emotional manipulation to control their children. Two sons, one the black sheep who is desperate to outrun mistakes he’s made, and the other a new father, willing to risk everything to protect his child. And a daughter: an Instagram influencer who refuses to face the truth about the man she married.

As the investigation heats up, family tensions build, and alliances shift. Long-buried resentments surface, forcing the Calhouns to face their darkest secrets before it’s too late.

Deep Freeze by Michael C. Grumley

Deep Freeze

The accident came quickly. With no warning. In the dead of night, a precipitous plunge into a freezing river trapped everyone inside the bus. It was then that Army veteran John Reiff’s life came to an end. Extinguished in the sudden rush of frigid water.

There was no expectation of survival. None. Let alone waking up beneath blinding hospital lights. Struggling to move, or see, or even breathe. But the doctors assure him that everything is normal. That things will improve. And yet, he has a strange feeling that there’s something they’re not telling him.

As Reiff’s mind and body gradually recover, he becomes certain that the doctors are lying to him. One by one, puzzle pieces are slowly falling into place, and he soon realizes that things are not at all what they seem. Critical information is being kept from him. Secrets. Supposedly for his own good. But who is doing this? Why? And the most important question: can he keep himself alive long enough to uncover the truth?

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FALL-ing for Forge: Forge’s Fall Lineup!

With summer winding down, crisp autumn days are right around the corner. And that means we have some wonderful new books coming your way! It’s (almost) time to don your flannel shirts, order your pumpkin spice lattes, and snuggle up under a cozy blanket as you crack open all the books that’ll have you fall-ing for Forge!:


Rough Pages by Lev AC Rosen

Rough Pages

Private Detective Evander “Andy” Mills has been drawn back to the Lavender House estate for a missing person case. Pat, the family butler, has been volunteering for a book service, one that specializes in mailing queer books to a carefully guarded list of subscribers. With bookseller Howard Salzberger gone suspiciously missing along with his address book, everyone on that list, including some of Andy’s closest friends, is now in danger.

Coming 10.1.24!

My Three Dogs by W. Bruce Cameron

My Three Dogs

My Three Dogs is a charming and heartfelt new novel from the #1 bestselling author of A Dog’s Purpose, about humankind’s best, most loyal friends, and a wonderful adventure of love and finding home. Cameron’s signature style shines in this whirlwind of a novel that showcases how determination, instinct, and love can make a family whole once more.

Coming 10.29.24!

Elmer Kelton’s The Familiar Stranger by Steve Kelton and John Bradshaw

Elmer Kelton's The Familiar Stranger

Elmer Kelton’s Hewey Calloway, one of the best-loved cowboys in all of Western fiction, returns in this novel of his middling years, as he looks for work—but not too much work—in 1904 West Texas.

Coming 12.3.24!

Now in Paperback:

The Murder of Andrew Johnson by Burt Solomon

The Murder of Andrew Johnson

The next John Hay historical thriller from award-winning political journalist Burt Solomon, this time focused on one of America’s most controversial presidents: Andrew Johnson.

Coming 9.10.24!

Valley of Refuge by John Teschner

Valley of Refuge

In this high-stakes, character-driven thriller, a Hawaiian family must decide the future of their ancestral land when a tech billionaire decides he wants it for himself, and won’t take no for an answer.

Coming 10.1.24!

Up on the Woof Top by Spencer Quinn

Up on the Woof Top

Chet the dog, “the most lovable narrator in all of crime fiction” (Boston Globe) and his human partner Bernie Little find themselves high in the mountains this holiday season to help Dame Ariadne Carlisle, a renowned author of bestselling Christmas mysteries, find Rudy, her lead reindeer and good luck charm, who has gone missing.

Coming 1o.22.24!

Dead West by Matt Goldman

Dead West

In the words of Lee Child on Gone to Dust, “I want more of Nils Shapiro.” New York Times-bestselling and Emmy Award-winning author Matt Goldman happily obliges by bringing the Minneapolis private detective back for another thrilling, standalone adventure in Dead West.

Coming 11.5.24!

Elmer Kelton’s The Unlikely Lawman Created by Elmer Kelton; Written by Steve Kelton

Elmer Kelton's The Unlikely Lawman

Elmer Kelton’s Hewey Calloway, one of the best-loved cowboys in all of Western fiction, returns in this novel of his middling years, as he looks for work—but not too much work—in 1904 West Texas.

Coming 11.5.24!

Deep Freeze by Michael C. Grumley

Deep Freeze

From the bestselling author of the Breakthrough series: In his next near-future thriller, Michael C. Grumley explores humanity’s thirst for immortality—at any cost…

“A fast-paced juggernaut of a story, where revelations pile upon revelations, building to a stunning conclusion that will leave readers clamoring for more.” —James Rollins, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Sigma Force series

Coming 11.19.24!

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Fun (?) In The Sun! 7 Literally Sunny Reads

by Julia Bergen & a cat

Who doesn’t love fun in the sun? But also, who wants to read about people just being happy in the sun all the time without anything going horribly wrong? Gross. So, get rid of the fun, but keep the sun. Or at least, keep the fun for the reader, but not for the characters. No fun for them. Only sun.


she who became the sun by shelley parker-chanShe Who Became the Sun by Shelley Parker-Chan

Boom! Right there in the title. Sun. But also, son? See, She Who Became the Sun is the story of Zhu Chongba. Nevermind the fact that the original Zhu Chongba died in drought and famine. Prior to this death, a soothsayer delivered unto him a great destiny. After the death, his sister assumes his identity and dares to claim that destiny—a destiny that might be great enough to see her become the sun, as in the emperor. Zhu Chongba’s destined road is fraught with danger and costly decisions, but Zhu is not afraid of a little murder. Or a lot. 

the three body problem by cixin liuThe Three-Body Problem by Cixin Liu

Not just one sun. Not just two suns. But three whole sun’s worth of fun. Or not fun, as it turns out. Because three suns does not actually mean three times the pool parties, it means a civilization forced to rebuild itself every time there’s a global catastrophe, which happens a lot.

And if you haven’t watched the Netflix series, summer is the perfect time to hide in the air conditioning and binge a good show. And then read the trilogy it’s based on! These books are pretty thick, so we’re thinking this could be your summer of ultimate sun-times.

paul of dune by brian herbert & kevin j andersonPaul of Dune by Brian Herbert & Kevin J. Anderson

The cast of the movies? Hot.

Arrakis? Hot. 

Reading Paul of Dune on a beach this summer? Hot—especially because it takes place immediately after the events of Dune, so if you’ve seen Dune Part Two and need to know what happens next this is the enlightening (see what we did there) that you need.

the sunlit man by brandon sandersonThe Sunlit Man by Brandon Sanderson

Sun in the Cosmere! Think the Cosmere is going to have some happy fun sun times? Think again. Because this is Cosmere in the future, on a planet where the sun is hot enough to melt stone. Ouch. And there’s a tyrant using the not-so-fun sun to control the planet’s population. Only the Nomad, a man on the run, has the potential to stop him. And of course since it’s Brandon Sanderson you know the world-building will be scorching.

unconquerable sun by kate elliottUnconquerable Sun by Kate Elliott

Princess Sun has finally come of age to become a major political player in the space empire previously helmed by her mother. Just her name is enough to solidly lay claim to a spot on this list, but Unconquerable Sun is actually a gender-spun science fiction reimagining of the conquest of Alexander the Great, a guy with a penchant for sun imagery. 

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Six Fantasy Novels Perfect to Set Your Next DnD Campaign

The TTRPG game masters among us know that behind all the epic moments and fun is a lot of work—preparing characters, setting up the fantasy world, and then you’ve got to set up the story of the campaign after that.

To celebrate the release of Christopher Buehlman’s The Daughters’ War, we’re bringing back this list of epic fantasy novels with worlds ready-made for your next DnD campaign! 


the daughter's war by christopher buehlmanThe Daughters’ War by Christopher Buehlman

Galva — Galvicha to her three brothers, two of whom the goblins will kill — has defied her family’s wishes and joined the army’s untested new unit, the Raven Knights. They march toward a once-beautiful city overrun by the goblin horde, accompanied by scores of giant war corvids. Made with the darkest magics, these fearsome black birds may hold the key to stopping the goblins in their war to make cattle of mankind. The road to victory is bloody, and goblins are clever and merciless. The Raven Knights can take nothing for granted — not the bonds of family, nor the wisdom of their leaders, nor their own safety against the dangerous war birds at their side. But some hopes are worth any risk.

Cover of The Blacktongue Thief by Christopher BuehlmanThe Blacktongue Thief by Christopher Buehlman

Guilds of thieves, brutal goblin wars, fallen cities, and of course, the gods! The world of The Blacktongue Thief is a prime setting for fast-paced campaigns where characters (and players) have ample opportunity to quip and react quickly to ever-escalating situations. Aren’t the best TTRPG moments the ones that spiral indelibly out of hand? Set your next campaign within the realms of The Blacktongue Thief to maximize the chance of such beautiful moments. 

Cover of Daughter of Redwinter by Ed McDonaldDaughter of Redwinter by Ed McDonald

This brilliant fantasy first-in-series about how a single choice can change a universe has every element your TTRPG-playin’ heart could yearn for. Forbidden magic, an order of warrior-magi, and ancient evils fighting against the chains of the past that hold them there—that’s a recipe for tabletop greatness if I’ve ever heard one. We’re also running a sweepstakes for a chance to win your very own custom Daughter of Redwinter-inspired game master’s screen

Cover of In the Shadow of LIghtning by Brian McClellanIn the Shadow of Lightning by Brian McClellan

Brian McClellan has a new fantasy series and it could be the setting of your next TTRPG campaign! Magic is running out in the world of In the Shadow of Lightning, and the violent struggles between factions makes stability as rare a commodity as the empowered Godglass they’re fighting over. 

Cover of Fate of the Fallen by Kel KadeFate of the Fallen by Kel Kade

Okay so this book. Basically all the rich and noble adventure-types have fled the world to the doom that they decided they just weren’t up to stopping. Who does that leave? Well, The B Team! Set your campaign in this world if you wish every class had a little mix of rogue. DnD for delightful scoundrels, if you will!

Cover for The First Binding by R. R. VirdiThe First Binding by R. R. Virdi

The setting of The First Binding takes inspiration from our world’s Silk Roads, and in this expansive series opener, R. R. Virdi takes us on a journey along a bustling fantasy trade route that spans a broad and diverse wealth of cultures. It’s kind of the perfect setting for a tabletop campaign! No coincidence that traditional DnD-style games begin in places like taverns—this is where travelers from different backgrounds meet! But the world of The First Binding is a world of travelers, where unfamiliar folks mesh at every point along the long, long road. 

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Ancient Magic in Modern Cities

Modern cities can hold ancient magic, some more literally than others. Check out our favorite cities turn magical epicenters below!


when among crows by veronica rothChicago in When Among Crows by Veronica Roth

Pain is Dymitr’s calling. His family is one in a long line of hunters who sacrifice their souls to slay monsters. Now he’s tasked with a deadly mission: find the legendary witch Baba Jaga. To reach her, Dymitr must ally with the ones he’s sworn to kill. Pain is Ala’s inheritance. A fear-eating zmora with little left to lose, Ala awaits death from the curse she carries. When Dymitr offers her a cure in exchange for her help, she has no choice but to agree. Together they must fight against time and the wrath of the Chicago underworld. But Dymitr’s secrets—and his true motives—may be the thing that actually destroys them.

DarkerShadeMagic 9781250891211 CVRrev1.inddLondon in the Shades of Magic series by V. E. Schwab

Kell is one of the last Antari—magicians with a rare, coveted ability to travel between parallel Londons; Red, Grey, White, and, once upon a time, Black. After an exchange goes awry, Kell escapes to Grey London and runs into Delilah Bard, a cut-purse with lofty aspirations. Now perilous magic is afoot, and treachery lurks at every turn. To save all of the worlds, they’ll first need to stay alive.

one for my enemy by olivie blakeManhattan in One for My Enemy by Olivie Blake

In modern-day Manhattan where we lay our scene, two rival witch families fight to maintain control of their respective criminal empires. On one side of the conflict are the Antonova sisters — each one beautiful, cunning, and ruthless — and their mother, the elusive supplier of premium intoxicants, known only as Baba Yaga. On the other side, the influential Fedorov brothers serve their father, the crime boss known as Koschei the Deathless, whose ventures dominate the shadows of magical Manhattan. After twelve years of tenuous co-existence, one family member brutally crosses the line. Bad blood reignites old grudges; at the same time, fate intervenes with a chance encounter between enemies. In the wake of love and vengeance, everyone must choose a side. As each of the siblings struggles to stake their claim, bloodshed in inevitable. The question is: Whose?

blood jadewTokyo in Blood Jade by Julia Vee and Ken Bebelle

Emiko Soong, newly minted Sentinel of San Francisco, just can’t catch a break. Just after she becomes the guardian for a sentient city, a murder strikes close to home. Called by the city and one of the most powerful clans to investigate, she traces the killer whose scent signature bears a haunting similarity to her mother’s talent. The trail will lead her back to Tokyo where the thread she pulls threatens to unravel her whole world and bring dark family secrets to light. Meanwhile, the General rises in the East and Emiko must fight the hidden enemies of his growing army who are amped up on Blood Jade, while keeping her promises to her brother Tatsuya as he prepares for his tourney. Her duties as Sentinel and her loyalties collide when she must choose between hiding her deepest shame or stopping the General’s relentless march.

the library of the dead by t l huchuEdinburgh in the Edinburgh Nights series by T. L. Huchu

The Library of the Dead introduces readers to Ropa, a precocious and cynical teen who can talk to ghosts. She explores the shadowy magical underside of modern Edinburgh searching for clues to uncover what’s behind the evil bewitching all the children, leaving them shells of themselves. Along the way she encounters an occult library, a magical mentor, and some unexpected allies. This atmospheric, paranormal fantasy series continues with Our Lady of Mysterious Ailments.

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Fantasy Novel Pub Crawl!

by a cat

You ever read a book and you’re just like wow, I wish I was there. I wish I was sitting with my favorite characters in the cool fantasy pub telling stories around the hearth and heartily sloshing funtime refreshments? Well, lean into this list of fantasy titles, because we’re going on a fantasy pub crawl to all the hottest watering holes in Epic Fantasy Town! 


legends & lattes by travis baldreeViv’s Coffeeshop from Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree

Pub, coffeeshop—very similar in concept, honestly, and hey! It’s seven in the morning somewhere! And where better to start our long day of fantasy pub crawling than by stopping at Viv’s Coffeeshop. It’s the first such establishment in the city of Thune, and it’s got a lot to love: Tasty treats prepared by a talented ratfolk baker named Thimble, a large direcat that’s the shop’s pet / guardian, and the finest coffee drinks Gnomish engineering can serve up! Viv—entrepreneur and ex-adventurer—grew tired of her life on the combat-intensive road, and hung up her sword to open the shop, and has put oodles and oodles of love into it. You’ll love it too. 

book of night by holly blackRapture Bar & Lounge from Book of Night by Holly Black

An important quality to our fantasy pub crawl is going to eclecticness! Now that we’ve finished soaking in the cozy atmosphere of Viv’s Coffeeshop, our logical next destination is the Rapture Bar & Lounge. It’s a shady establishment, and we mean that literally, because extralegal shadow magicians headquarter in the basements beneath it, but that’s all part of the charm. Break out your gothiest attire because eerie is in at this locale, and you’ll love Charlie, the bartender. She’s trying to pivot away from her days as a thief of dangerous magical secrets. Unfortunately, sometimes the shadow hive downstairs wants more of her business than just her time bartending. It’s good that we’re moving on to the next bar, actually. A man and his shadow just walked in separately. He’s dressed clandestine and his shadow has claws. Time for bar number next. 

The First Binding by rr virdiThree Tales Tavern from The First Binding by R.R. Virdi

Whew! Sorry we left the last place in such a rush, but we can settle here for a little bit. In fact, let’s all get comfortable, because as the observant may have predicted from this pub’s name, we’re here for drinks and for stories. Travelers often find rest here, and when two travelers meet, there are always tales to tell. Stay a while and get to know Ari. He has many stories to share. He’ll tell you legends of dead gods, stolen magic, and dreadful curses. He’ll tell tall tales and short, and if you stay long enough, he might tell you the story of how he loosed the first evil on the world. 

But don’t stay too, too long, because our crawl isn’t done yet!

the atlas six by olivie blakeAlexandrian Society Lounge from The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake

Okay. Everyone act cool, this is a private establishment. Very private. As in ‘warded magically multiple times over.’ It’s not even really a bar, but you won’t believe that once you see all the good stuff it keeps stocked. This library—a modern ancestor to the one that vanished from ancient Alexandria—houses all the world’s most dangerous secrets and magics. It’s part library, part vault really, since part of its function is strategically withholding certain infohazards from a cadre of ambitious graduate magicians working on their theses. One of their number is actually our host. Meet Callum Nova! He’s the scion of a magical cosmetics empire and kind of a prickly jerk, but there’s no way we would have made it through the wards without his help. Luckily he’s a lonely jerk, who would just hate to admit how much he craves company to share a bottle of scotch. 

the silverblood promise by james loganSaphrona, City of Merchant Princes from The Silverblood Promise by James Logan

And we finish our crawl in the ultimate pub: a whole Fantasy City where opulence, grime, truth, and wine mix freely, or expensively rather. Saphrona is the city of the merchant princes, and whatever you want is available for the commensurate quantity of coin. Rare vintage? Yes. Barrels of cheapest ale. Yep. The truth behind who orchestrated the demise of your estranged noble father? … Well, that one’s not really for everyone, but it is for Lukan Gardova, our guide into the underbelly of the princely city. He’s a disgraced scion and accomplished cardshark, hoping to solve his dad’s murder and gain some kind of atonement and posthumous approval. But more important for the context of this list, he knows all the good pubs to pick up a pint. 

 

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8 Evergreen Reads

Our listicle scientists worked really hard to distill this one: Evergreen reads perfect for any time, but critically–only those that have an appropriately thematic green cover. This is our list green reads. Evergreen reads. 

Check em’ out! 


in the lives of puppets by tj kluneIn the Lives of Puppets by TJ Klune

Victor Lawson, a human, lives with his family of robots in a house among a strange grove of trees. Those green trees earn this queer retelling of Pinocchio its spot on this list of green books, but adventure is on the horizon, and it’s going to pull Victor out of the grove and into a quest to fatherly inventor android Giovanni Lawson from his captors in the City of Electric Dreams. 

kinning by nisi shawlKinning by Nisi Shawl

This title continues where Shawl’s Everfair leaves off: The island nation of Everfair has persisted in defiance of European colonizers. In this alternate history, barkcloth airships dot the sky and varied peoples come together to form a new society. As enemies within and without challenge whether Everfair will continue to serve as a symbol of hope, freedom, and equality to anticolonial movements around the world. 

Importantly within the context of this listicle, the cover of this title is a deep and calming green, but also on a deeper level, envisioning a world with kinder technologies and a brighter future is critical to creating a greener present. 

masters of death by olivie blakeMasters of Death by Olivie Blake

Like much of Blake’s work, Masters of Death combines the sacred and profane to synthesize profound implications. This is a book about the lives of immortals, and the dilemmas of mortals that plague all regardless of undying status. It’s also a story about a real estate agent who happens to be a vampire, and who happens to have a haunted house that happens to be quite difficult to sell as a result. The cover is a tranquil shade of green. 

the library of the dead by t l huchuThe Library of the Dead by T. L. Huchu

The hardcover cover for this title was actually a deep blue, but for the paperback edition, we’re all mean green here 😎

And that’s not all that’s mean… Something is stalking the streets and alleys of Edinburgh and leaving drained, huskified children in its wake. But don’t worry! Professional ghost talker Ropa is on the case! Or maybe you should worry. This entity is dangerous. 

after the forest by kell woodsAfter the Forest by Kell Woods

Twenty years after the fairy tale ends, Hans is drowning in debts from gambling and Greta’s trying to ignore the tempting whispers of the old witch’s grimoire that calls to her from where she hid it away. When dark magic enters the forest from the outside, Greta may need to call on her own, but down that path lays danger too. 

tress of the emerald sea by brandon sandersonTress of the Emerald Sea by Brandon Sanderson

C’mon. This one’s got emerald in the title! It’s perfect! 

In this swashbuckling adventure, Tress must stow away on a ship in order to cross the green ocean that surrounds her island home to find the Sorceress of the Midnight Sea. Her aim is to save her friend, but just one drop of this water carries death. She may just have to settle for saving herself, or fatally failing altogether. 

thornhedge by t kingfisherThornhedge by T. Kingfisher

An impenetrable wall of brambles preserves a curse and holds a princess locked in a tower, but not all curses should be broken. The green of Thornhedge is tinged with a little red, both on the cover and in concept: Here we have the nature magic of faerie but also betrayal and bleeding secrets that have been kept far too long. 

heartsong by tj kluneHeartsong by TJ Klune

This list wouldn’t be complete without an entry from TJ Klune’s Green Creek series, right?? So enter, Heartsong, the werewolf book heart-melter with the greenest color palette. Just look at that starburst green with warm accents! This book about queer love between queer werewolves is evergreen for sure. 

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