13 Exciting Fantasy Books Releasing in July 2023

Secret Project #3 by Brandon Sanderson

A Cosmere Novel. July 1, 2023.

Get ready for the highly anticipated release of the third Secret Project by Brandon Sanderson, coming out on July 1. And yes, it is a Cosmere book!

In this gripping tale from the Cosmere, two unlikely companions must find common ground and ally to unravel the mysteries that bind them. Yumi hails from a realm of serene gardens and ethereal spirits, while Painter resides in a world plagued by darkness, advanced technology, and haunting nightmares. As their lives unexpectedly intertwine, they embark on a perilous journey to save their communities from imminent ruin.

Acts of Violet by Margarita Montimore

Genre-bending magical family drama. July 5, 2023.

Introducing “Acts of Violet” by Margarita Montimore, the mesmerizing new novel that follows a famous magician’s disappearance and her sister’s quest to uncover the truth. As the tenth anniversary of the magician’s vanishing act approaches, a determined podcaster, Cameron, and Sasha, the magician’s sister, delve into a web of secrets and unsettling events, raising questions about Violet’s whereabouts and Sasha’s hidden past. With each step closer to the truth, Sasha faces personal and emotional challenges that could shatter her world forever.

Ebony Gate: The Phoenix Hoard by Julia Vee

The female John Wick with Dragons. July 11, 2023.

Introducing “Ebony Gate,” the thrilling first installment of the Phoenix Hoard series by Julia Vee and Ken Bebelle. Set in contemporary San Francisco’s Chinatown, this female-driven John Wick-esque tale combines dragon magic and a captivating protagonist. Emiko Soong, the Blade of the Soong Clan, finds herself entangled in a deadly web of blood, debts, and the supernatural as she embarks on a mission to retrieve the Ebony Gate, facing off against hungry ghosts and risking her soul to protect the city she now calls home. Get ready for an action-packed adventure that will leave you breathless.

The Splinter in the Sky by Kemi Ashing-Giwa

LGBTQ Space opera about a tea expert. July 11, 2023.

Embark on a thrilling journey through the stars with “The Splinter in the Sky” by Kemi Ashing-Giwa. In this captivating debut space opera, follow the story of Enitan, a skilled tea expert turned political prisoner turned spy. Set in a world recovering from a failed war, Enitan’s quest for vengeance and liberation takes her deep into the heart of the Vaalbaran Empire. With echoes of N.K. Jemisin and Nnedi Okorafor, this diverse and exciting tale will keep you on the edge of your seat as Enitan navigates a treacherous path to reclaim her nation’s independence and protect her loved ones. Prepare for an enthralling adventure that explores the power of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

The Saint of Bright Doors by Vajra Chandrasekera

Queer, magical, urban fantasy. July 11, 2023.

Discover the mysterious city of Luriat and its enigmatic doors in “The Saint of Bright Doors” by Vajra Chandrasekera. In this intriguing tale, the city’s doors hold secrets and possibilities that captivate the imaginations of its inhabitants. While some fear the doors as conduits to haunting realms, others see them as a calling. Enter Fetter, a unique individual who was born without a shadow and torn between conflicting loyalties. As Fetter navigates a world of devotion, religion, and unearthly encounters, he embarks on a personal journey to uncover his true identity and purpose. Join Fetter as he delves into the depths of Luriat and its bright doors, where answers and revelations may await.

Hooked by AC Wise

Femenist story about Wendy after Neverland. June 12, 2023.

Uncover the captivating aftermath of Neverland in “Hooked,” a stunning feminist retelling by A.C. Wise. Delve into the depths of grief, survivor’s guilt, and the enduring bonds between Wendy and Captain Hook in this modern-day Peter Pan story. As the immortal pirate faces a vengeful threat, he must team up with Wendy, now a grown woman, to confront the shadows of Neverland and rewrite their destinies. Prepare for a spellbinding tale of redemption and sacrifice that will keep you hooked until the last page.

The Jasad Heir by Sara Hashem

Egyptian-inspired epic fantasy. July 18, 2023.

Enter the captivating realm of “The Scorched Throne,” the thrilling first installment of “The Jasad Heir” series by Sara Hashem. Witness the haunting tale of Sylvia, the elusive Heir of Jasad, as she fights to conceal her true identity and survive in a world where magic is forbidden, and her kingdom lies in ruins. When forced to make a dangerous pact with Arin, her sworn adversary, Sylvia is thrust into a perilous game of intrigue and conflicting emotions. In this Egyptian-inspired debut fantasy, prepare to be entranced by a story of resilience, betrayal, and the quest to reclaim a scorched kingdom from the ashes.

Immortal Longings by Chloe Gong

In the kingdom of Talin, the annual games in the capital cities of San-Er draw crowds seeking fame and fortune. Princess Calla Tuoleimi, hiding a dark secret, plans to avenge her parents’ death and overthrow the monarchy. Meanwhile, exiled aristocrat Anton Makusa, desperate to save his comatose love, joins the games hoping to secure the prize money. As Calla, Anton, and the compassionate August, King Kasa’s adopted son, form an unlikely alliance, their conflicting goals and intense relationships blur the lines of loyalty and love. In the face of power and passion, Calla must make a fateful choice between her desires and the fate of her kingdom.

Dark Water Daughter by HM Long

Swashbuckling pirate fantasy. July 18, 2023.

Embark on a thrilling Jacobean adventure on the high seas with “Dark Water Daughter,” the first installment of The Winter Sea series by H.M. Long. In a world of stormsingers and deathless pirate lords, Mary Firth, a powerful stormsinger, finds herself entangled in a dangerous game of alliances and vendettas. Teaming up with disgraced naval officer Samuel Rosser, they must navigate treacherous waters and confront ancient forces threatening their freedom. Brace yourself for a swashbuckling tale of magic, redemption, and fierce women, where loyalties are tested and secrets unravel on the open seas of the Winter Sea.

Blood Over Bright Haven by ML Wang

Adult self-published standalone fantasy. July 25, 2023.

Another book from another of my favorite authors. ML Wang will release her new standalone fantasy, Blood over Bright Haven, this July!

In Tiran, where magic is the source of all power, Sciona strives to become the first woman admitted to the High Magistry. When she finally achieves her dream, she is given a janitor as an assistant. Unbeknownst to her, the janitor is a former hunter with a tragic past. Together, they uncover a long-hidden secret that could change the magic. But the collectors are close behind and will stop at nothing to get their hands on the secret.

The Weaver and the Witch Queen by Genevieve Gornichec

Viking-age historical fantasy. July 25, 2023.

In this captivating novel blending Viking Age history and myth, two women’s lives become entwined in a tale of sisterhood, power, and destiny. Oddny, desperate to save her missing sister, and Gunnhild, a witch destined for the throne, form an unbreakable bond as they navigate Viking raids, prophecies, and unexpected alliances. As their paths converge once again, the strength of their enchanted and emotional ties will be tested in ways they never anticipated.

The Sun and the Void by Gabriela Romero Lacruz

Epic South American folklore. July 25, 2023.

“The Sun and the Void,” the first book in “The Warring Gods” series, takes readers on a captivating journey through a lush world inspired by the history and folklore of South America. In this sweeping epic fantasy, Reina, desperate for belonging, embarks on a perilous journey to meet her mysterious grandmother. Saved from death by her grandmother’s dark sorcery, Reina becomes entangled in a web of magic and ancient gods. Meanwhile, Eva, burdened by her illegitimate status and mixed heritage, discovers her latent magical abilities. Despite the dangers and societal taboos surrounding magic, Eva is drawn to its power and begins to walk a treacherous path. Reina and Eva will face unimaginable challenges and transformations as their stories intertwine, leading them to become something beyond their wildest imagination.

Light Bringer by Pierce Brown

A Red Rising Novel. July 25, 2023.

In “Light Bringer,” the sixth book in Pierce Brown’s acclaimed Red Rising Saga, the thrilling continuation of the series unfolds as Darrow returns to the forefront. As the Reaper, he is both a legendary figure and a man driven by his roles as a husband, a father, and a friend. Once revered as the savior of worlds and the leader of the Rising, Darrow now finds himself in a new era, where the focus shifts from instilling fear in enemies to igniting hope in allies. In this eagerly anticipated installment, Darrow must navigate the challenges of the dark age and emerge as a beacon of light, a harbinger of victory, and a symbol of hope for the future.