The Best Self-Published Fantasy Books of 2023

Legends of Celosia: Origins

“Legends of Celosia: Origins” by Moonlight Soldier follows Lethia, a village girl who becomes a demonic lycanthrope in hell. With her fiery powers triggered by emotions, she faces political intrigue and discovers the extent of her abilities. This immersive fantasy tale features a richly crafted world, dynamic races, and a young heroine embracing her extraordinary destiny.

Quin of Light

“The Quins of Sarcaren #1: Quin of Light” by Mark Parker introduces Auri, Torren, Aaran, Koshi, and Caetan, each possessing unique elemental powers. As they navigate a world of betrayal and fear, these individuals, bound by a deadly curse, must come together to face an unknown enemy and unleash devastation upon kingdoms. This thrilling elemental fantasy series promises an emotional rollercoaster with soaring highs and heart-wrenching lows. Embark on this epic journey today!

Hierarchy of the Unseen

“Hierarchy of the Unseen” by B. Pigeon and Fell A. Marsh presents an endless struggle between demons and humans, locked in a battle over the life force known as light. In the empire of Lu-nevet, devout demon hunter Mitzli, and shiftless demon Kor find themselves embroiled in a rising tide of violence and shifting strategies. As outcasts among their kind, they must betray their factions and unite to protect the world, even if no one will listen. Will they succeed in averting the impending escalation of chaos and destruction?

Blades of The Ice

“Blades of The Ice: Legends of Elessia” by Luís Falcão de Magalhães follows the journey of Erika Langeshen and Annah Barksdottir, members of an assassin sisterhood in a patriarchal land. Tasked by their enigmatic patron, they must uncover a plot against their oppressive rulers. Venturing into the Razor Teeth Woods and infiltrating a Patriarchate fortress, they seek an unlikely ally and strive to build their power base. Will they expose the machinations of the local lord and his allies, bringing justice from the shadows?

The Blue Fairy and the Pyromancer

“The Blue Fairy and the Pyromancer” by Zeiss Schreiber is a captivating tale of a fairy named Breeze who defies her upbringing and befriends a human sorcerer named Kieran. Together, they uncover dangerous truths that threaten both their worlds. Meanwhile, the relentless inquisitor Faith is determined to bring them down, unaware of her dark secret. As their paths intertwine, they must navigate a treacherous journey filled with peril and revelations. Will they find their answers or succumb to the forces working against them?

Lira

“Lira” by Armanis Ar-Feinial is a haunting and poignant story that follows the journey of a young girl named Lira, who is thrust into a harsh and unforgiving world after her father’s death. Struggling to survive each day, Lira navigates a grim existence filled with hunger, danger, and the constant threat of being taken away. With poetic prose and brutal honesty, this chilling tale captures the resilience and vulnerability of a child forced to confront unimaginable horrors.

The Nameless Restaurant

“The Nameless Restaurant: A Cozy Cooking Fantasy” by Tao Wong invites readers into a hidden world in Toronto. Behind an unassuming wooden door lies a dated and worn restaurant with terrible service and unfriendly regulars. However, there is something magical about this place—the food is divine. Join the whimsical journey through this enchanting tale as the author of “The System Apocalypse” and “A Thousand Li” serves up a delectable blend of cozy fantasy and culinary delights. Complete with custom chapter headings, an exclusive recipe book, and captivating illustrations; this book is a treat for fans of cozy fantasy and food-themed stories.

The Exile of Zanzibar

“The Exile of Zanzibar (Railroad to Zanzibar)” by Daniel Maidman takes readers on a thrilling journey through time and across continents. Claire, armed with her invention to manipulate space and time, finds herself unexpectedly transported to ancient Florence without her device. In a war-torn era, she seeks allies to help her return home, and Marcus Diophantus, a pickpocket turned soldier, becomes her champion and potential love interest. As they navigate political intrigues and a city on the brink of chaos, Claire and Marcus must confront powerful forces and unlock the mysteries of a mythical ghost tower. Join them in this captivating tale of adventure, war, and the quest for homecoming.

The Severing Song

“The Severing Son (The Sundered Nation Book 1)” by Vaughn Roycroft delves into a world where prophecies and dark forces collide. Elan, initially skeptical of the prophecy surrounding the Bringer of Urrinan, becomes embroiled in a dangerous quest when her pursuit of a Spali warband leads her to the hidden compound of the Outcast. Bound to the Outcast’s son, who matches the prophecy, Elan finds herself entangled with an outlaw pursued by both friends and enemies. As they navigate the heat of battle and the weight of destiny, Elan and the Outcast’s son set out to bring about the transformative upheaval that could reshape the world.

The Awakening of Marcianna

“The Awakening of Marcianna (Thief of Destiny Duology Book 1)” by Isabelle Markus is a self-published fantasy that follows the journey of a suburban wife, mother, and pediatrician who discovers she may be a supernatural creature destined to protect humankind. As strange occurrences disrupt her life and her newfound abilities emerge, she must unravel the mysteries surrounding her existence. With ancient enemies plotting against her, she must rely on strangers from her forgotten past to confront the rising darkness and protect all she holds dear.

The Mimameid Solution

The Mimameid Solution” by Katherine Kempf is a post-apocalyptic novel that delves into survival, resilience, and finding one’s place in the world. Set five years after a catastrophic ecological disaster, the story follows Lysander, who, along with his companions Magdelena and Linnaea, returns to his homeland of Old Scandinavia. They face constant threats from the invading Celts, who leave destruction in their wake. When offered refuge in a place called Mimameid by a group of rogue soldiers led by Lieutenant Petra, Lysander must make a decision that could determine his fate. As Mimameid proves to be more than he anticipated, Lysander must take charge of his destiny and weigh the choice between staying and leaving. Perfect for fans of “The Hunger Games,” “The Maze Runner,” and “The Giver,” “The Mimameid Solution” is the captivating first installment of a post-apocalyptic trilogy.

Tethered Spirits

In “Tethered Spirits” by T. A. Hernandez, Amar, a man seeking his lost memories and an end to his curse, joins forces with Kesari, a girl with her own magical powers, and Aleida, a determined refugee. Their intertwined paths lead them on a journey filled with mystery and discovery, unraveling a profound and enigmatic secret. This captivating fantasy adventure explores themes of self-discovery, bravery, and the relentless pursuit of truth.

Centernia: Return to the Castle

“Centernia: Return to the Castle” by Rose Catherine Khan is a captivating contemporary fantasy novel set in the realm of Pennsylvania. Artemisa Wynter, an ailurian mage yearning for a life beyond her father’s castle, embarks on a dangerous quest to retrieve her cousin, Jessica Ravenwolfe, who holds the key to unraveling a protective shield that has trapped the castlefolk. As Artemisa navigates a world filled with unique fantasy elements and darker themes, she discovers the depth of her own magical abilities. With lush world-building and engaging characters, this series offers an immersive reading experience that combines action, humor, drama, and romance. Readers praise Rose Catherine Khan’s talent for crafting a rich and fresh fantasy world that leaves them eagerly anticipating the next installment.

The Garden Gnome

“The Garden Gnome: Theory of Magic – Book 1” by Jeff McIntyre is a thrilling tale that follows a young boy named Tony, a journalist reporting on a particle accelerator experiment, an FBI agent investigating protests, and a man initiated into a secret society. Their paths converge as they become entangled in a world where magic may be returning, leading to an extraordinary confrontation that could reshape the world forever. McIntyre’s novel combines mystery, fantasy, and contemporary themes in an engaging exploration of the resurgence of magic.

The Fallout Family

“The Fallout Family: Wasteland Woes” by Isaac Cooke-Khan is an exciting middle-grade post-apocalyptic adventure. In a world devastated by disaster, James is determined to protect his sister Piper at all costs. When a dangerous encounter separates them, Piper, accompanied by their loyal dog Miss Bella, embarks on a perilous journey through the ruins to find her brother. This gripping tale showcases the resilience and bravery of young protagonists as they navigate survival challenges. Join James, Piper, and Miss Bella in their heart-pounding quest to reunite in a world where only the strongest families endure.

Echoes of War

In “Echoes of War” by John Paquin, a young boy named Daniel wakes up in a temple with no memory of his past. As he befriends servant boys and uncovers a power-hungry high priest seeking revenge, Daniel joins forces with unlikely allies to stop the priest from seizing control of the empire. With dark dreams and supernatural abilities, Daniel must confront his true identity and decide whether to use his powers for good or succumb to the same darkness as his enemy. This captivating tale delves into ancient mythology, offering a unique perspective on history while exploring themes of power, sacrifice, and the hidden strength of marginalized voices.

Nethergist

In “Nethergeist” by Nick Stevenson, published by a female-owned small press, Ayilia, the Regent-Elect of a renegade city, must search for the birthplace of a powerful mage to challenge the tyrannical Emperor Goat. Ayilia forms alliances with heretic magi, necromantic freedom fighters, reptilian Krayal, and her sworn foe, warlord Vespasian, to save her people. This complex literary fantasy explores inner turmoil alongside an epic struggle against the maniacal Emperor. Comparable to “Malazan Book of the Fallen” and “The First Law,” “Nethergeist” offers intense battles and a world on the brink of ruin.

Grave Cold

“Grave Cold” by Shannon Knight. Nyle, a long-lived raven from Anglo-Saxon England, must lay the dead to rest in the District of Portland or face his demise. The government’s electronic walls block Nyle and his kind. While Cait, a beautician and unwitting necromancer, faces her struggles. The dead invade their dreams, trapped as energy sources. Together, Nyle and Cait fight against exploitation and authoritarianism to save the world from a grim future. This biopunk novel explores the value of life and the power of resistance.

Tribe of the Accord

Adira knows only life alone in the wilderness with her father, Torion. Surviving the wild is bearable with him. That’s until a mysterious clan known as the Ursa abducts him. On the run from the aggressors, she must flee to unfamiliar lands and put her survival skills to the test. Along the way, she forms friendships and joins a tribe hoping to find her father. Will she conquer the challenges set before her to become a member of this society and rescue Torion, or will the terrifying Ursa clan bring doom to them all?

Outlaw Mage

Rosha, a girl from the fringes of the empire, struggles to fit in and prove her magical abilities. Despite being seen as an outsider and a status symbol to her father, she walks away from her chance to become an official mage. Years later, her father’s troubles lead her to the services of a rich sorcerer who becomes her only connection. When the sorcerer dies, Rosha is left stranded and discovers his true identity as the voice behind the emperor. In order to protect her family, she must assume the role of the powerful sorcerer and navigate a web of conspiracies that threaten the empire from within.

The Witch

In a world devoid of its former glory, enemies must unite against an encroaching darkness. Magic is now forbidden, endangering the lives of those who wield it for good. Harper Grim, a skilled healer in the city of Westfall, must hide her abilities to safeguard her people. However, when an evil force emerges, the king condemns all magic, including Harper’s efforts to protect her country. Shay Casper’s The Witch explores the trials of living in secrecy and the unwavering hope for a brighter future for those dear to Harper.

Temper the Dark

Servant girl Alaris Kahlanik uncovers her dreamwalking ability in captivity, spying on the emperor’s secret quest. Throlani Guardsman Kagan Liis, connected to the Darkness oracle, investigates Alaris. They both seek the best for their nation and discover the emperor’s pursuit of a dragon. Warning a forgetful dragon poses challenges. Together, they must save the dragon and their divided nation. Even if it means sacrificing themselves. L. Ryan Storms’ Temper the Dark weaves a tale of adventure and sacrifice in a tribal society.

The Orb and the Airship

In Jenelle Leanne Schmidt’s The Orb and the Airship, Grayden and Wynn, eager for adventure, encounter the enigmatic Dalmir and his arcane orb. They join forces, along with pirate Captain Marik, to confront ancient enemies and a looming conflict. With the fate of the world at stake, they must overcome their differences and work together. This clean gaslamp fantasy adventure features steadfast friendship, twisty politics, and epic airship battles, capturing the imagination of readers.

When the Stars Alight

Princess Laila Rose, a fallen star in human form, feels fascination when a demon of apocalyptic legend is presented to her. As they form a connection, Laila embarks on a journey to uncover the demon’s origins and establish peace. However, the heartless demon king desires war and conquest. Laila seeks help from the king’s sons, hoping to inspire them to defy their father. In the midst of a dangerous centuries-old rivalry, her heart is torn. This gothic fantasy, written in lush prose, explores courtly intrigue and captivates with its dark allure.

Fat Witch Summer

“A fantasy with compelling worldbuilding and rich character arcs,” Fat Witch Summer is a body-positive YA fantasy. Thrash, a plus-size sixteen-year-old, discovers her magical abilities and the three sanctioned Gifts. Her mother, Osmarra, believes the Gift of Glamour will fix her looks. When Osmarra refuses to accept Thrash as she is, The Lunes offer her an escape. Led by fiery Cresca, they embark on a road trip to steal their own Gifts. As they journey through the magical Thirteen States, they uncover secrets that will reshape their world.

Champions of Light

In a kingdom consumed by darkness, destiny calls for the champions of light. Rhoanda flees her arranged marriage, seeking freedom. Captured for theft, she is taken to the Cathedral of Light, where she discovers the truth about her parents’ dark intentions. Meanwhile, Sergeant Vern battles his personal demons and resentment towards the Lord of Light. As prophecies unfold and the kingdom faces its darkest hour, Rhoanda and Vern must embrace their true roles and have faith in the Light to save their realm. Can they triumph over trials and bring salvation to their people?

Demon’s Reign

Although Tarkosi Terelta is a nobody, he holds the key to saving his world from demons. Despite being the third-born of a shamed family and living a life of drudgery, everything changes when demons invade The Swathe. In a twist of fate, Tarkosi’s destiny becomes entwined with the most powerful demon. Thrust into a forgotten war, he must navigate the dual challenges of battling the royal demon and harnessing newfound magical abilities. Risking all, Tarkosi walks the line between hero and heretic to protect Shal Gara from ruin. This epic progression fantasy, blending Avatar: The Last Airbender with Venom, will captivate fans of Iron Prince, Cradle, and Kingfall.