I’ve been reading a lot of Ursula K. LeGuin lately. Whether or not it’s because I hadn’t read much of her work before I read The Dispossessed last year, I’m not sure. But I wish I had.
I’m working through her essays published in The Language of the Night and am transfixed by her words and thoughts.
She’s so fucking good.
As I watch the current state of the world play out and think about all the “bullies” who now sit in high political positions in our country, and I think back to my high school days and those bullies, there is a recurring constant: their hatred of all things fantastical.
And this Le Guin quote feels very appropriate for this moment:
For fantasy is true, of course. It isn’t factual, but it is true. Children know that. Adults know it, too, and that is precisely why many of them are afraid of fantasy. They know that its truth challenges, even threatens, all that is false, all that is phony, unnecessary, and trivial in the life they have let themselves be forced into living. They are afraid of dragons because they are afraid of freedom.
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The heat has officially arrived here in Kentucky, and with it comes one of my favorite seasonal rituals: the Summer Reading Stack. You know the one. The books you optimistically pile up beside your hammock, or your travel bag, or your nightstand, knowing full well you won’t read them all, but determined to try anyway.
As I prepare to disappear into as many pages as possible between projects and planning, I’ve rounded up some of the June 2025 SFF releases that have piqued my curiosity, stirred my genre-loving soul, and whispered, “read me next.” This month’s picks include vampire spaceships, cursed couriers, underwater palaces, swan-based political coups, and so much more.
So pour yourself a tall glass of iced tea (or Romulan ale — I won’t judge), and dive into this list of stellar speculative fiction releases.
A dying queen. An heir who can’t get it together. A rival powerful enough to tear down everything. This high-stakes island fantasy features matriarchal legacy, political power grabs, and complicated magic. It’s giving Game of Thrones meets The Green Bone Saga — and I am here for it.
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Of Monsters and Mainframes by Barbara Truelove
Out June 3 (Bindery Books)
If you told me this book was Dracula meets Battlestar Galactica, I’d throw my credits at the nearest data terminal. Set on the spaceship Demeter (a clever nod to Stoker), this queer horror story features space vampires, interstellar travel, and a haunted AI that might need to become Blade.
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The Witch Roads by Kate Elliott
Out June 10 (Tor Books)
When the royal road trip from hell goes sideways (thanks, arrogant prince), it’s up to Elen the courier to get everyone out of a haunted town alive. This one promises political intrigue, ancient magic, and the kind of “why am I always the responsible one?” energy I feel deep in my soul.
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Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by V. E. Schwab
Out June 10 (Tor Books)
Three women. Three timelines. Vampires. Schwab’s gothic sensibilities are on full display in this “toxic lesbian vampire” novel (her words, not mine), and I’m already bracing for heartbreak, blood, and beautifully written trauma.
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The Ghosts of Gwendolyn Montgomery by Clarence A. Haynes
Out June 17 (Legacy Lit)
A glamorous NYC publicist finds herself haunted — literally and figuratively — after a museum tragedy. Throw in a psychic caught in a ghostly love triangle and some deeply buried secrets, and this one sounds like The Sixth Sense meets Scandal with a Bronx twist.
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Seventhblade by Tonia Laird
Out June 17 (ECW Press)
An Indigenous warrior mother seeking vengeance in a colonized city? Yes, please. Add in morally gray alliances, godlike powers, and a blood debt that could ignite a revolution, and you’ve got a fantasy epic I’m bumping to the top of the list.
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New SFF for Young Readers (and the Young at Heart)
A Forgery of Fate by Elizabeth Lim
Out June 3 (Knopf Books)
Beauty and the Beast but make it a con artist with prophetic painting powers? Lim continues to blend folklore and feminism with flair. Truyan agrees to marry the Dragon King to save her family, but we all know that kind of bargain never goes according to plan…
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Among Ghosts by Rachel Hartman
Out June 24 (Random House)
A medieval town where freedom is earned by surviving a year and a day — until a ghost, a dragon, and a murder shake the walls. Hartman’s return promises haunting imagery and a layered coming-of-age story, perfect for fans of Seraphina and The Graveyard Book.
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Embrace the Serpent by Sunya Mara
Out June 24 (HarperCollins)
A jeweler’s apprentice finds herself in the Serpent King’s castle. To survive, she marries him — but finds herself drawn to someone else entirely. Intrigue, jewels, forbidden romance… this one’s for readers who like their fantasy a little dark and a lot twisty.
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A Treachery of Swans by A. B. Poranek
Out June 24 (Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Inspired by Swan Lake, this sapphic fantasy delivers palace politics, magical transformations, and a mission to restore a kingdom’s lost magic. When the king dies and blame falls on the wrong person, Odile must team up with the very person she betrayed to find the truth.
That’s all for now, fellow explorers of the weird and wonderful. If you pick up any of these, let me know — I’m always up for a good bookish conversation, especially if it involves morally ambiguous magic or sentient spaceships.
Until next time: read deeply, imagine wildly, and remember… the TBR pile is infinite, but your joy is the compass.
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2025 promises a wealth of fantastic reads for fantasy enthusiasts, with a mix of new series, standalones, and eagerly awaited sequels. Here’s a list of the most anticipated releases, arranged chronologically, with detailed descriptions to help you plan your reading year.
Sue Lynn Tan, author of Daughter of the Moon Goddess, brings Immortal, a standalone romantasy about Liyen, a mortal queen striving to save her kingdom, Tianxia. Her journey takes her into the Immortal Realm, where she must ally with the God of War. This enemies-to-lovers story is packed with tension, political intrigue, and lush world-building.
The Wayward Children series continues with its tenth installment, focusing on Nadya, a character introduced in Beneath the Sugar Sky. Nadya discovers a doorway to Belyrreka, where she transforms into the Drowned Girl. Her journey explores themes of belonging and the search for one’s people in McGuire’s signature poignant style.
Breath of the Dragon, the first book in the Breathmarked Duology, introduces 16-year-old Jun, who defies his father to enter the Guardian’s Tournament. Inspired by Bruce Lee’s legacy, this action-packed tale combines martial arts, magical scrolls, and high-stakes competition.
The sequel to Five Broken Blades, Four Ruined Realms delves deeper into a world of betrayal and high-stakes heists. The blades must steal a ring from the God King Joon’s sister, but fractured trust among the group threatens their mission. This gripping follow-up is sure to thrill fans of the series.
Ed Crocker’s debut novel, Lightfall, is the first book in The Everlands Trilogy. Blending supernatural creatures with political intrigue, the story follows Sam, a vampire maid navigating a murder investigation. Her journey uncovers the secrets of the ruling elite, delivering an inventive and gripping tale.
In Water Moon, a magical pawnshop in Tokyo masquerades as a ramen restaurant, visible only to those with deep regrets. When an item disappears with its owner, Hana begins a quest to recover them. Samantha Sotto Yambao weaves a poignant and imaginative story full of charm.
The third book in the Empyrean Series, Onyx Storm, picks up after the shocking events of Iron Flame. With the war against the Venin escalating, Basgiath’s Dragonriders must abandon their education to prepare for battle. Rebecca Yarros raises the stakes in this heart-pounding sequel.
Emily Wilde returns in the third installment of her cozy yet adventurous series. In Compendium of Lost Tales, Emily adjusts to life as the Queen of Faerie alongside Wendell while contending with a curse from Wendell’s stepmother. This book is a delightful addition with heightened stakes and Fawcett’s trademark charm.
The final chapter in Tracy Deonn’s Legendborn Cycle, Oathbound, sees Bree separated from the Legendborn Order and forced to ally with the Shadow King. With dead Merlins appearing and tensions at an all-time high, this conclusion promises an epic finale to a beloved series.
In The Ragpicker King, the sequel to Sword Catcher, Cassandra Clare raises the stakes for Lin and Kel. As Kel investigates a massacre, Lin struggles with the consequences of claiming to be the Goddess Reborn. With political intrigue and personal dilemmas, this sequel is a must-read.
The conclusion to L.R. Lam’s Dragon Scales Duology, Emberclaw, follows Arcady as they face the University of Vatra’s trials of magic and Everen as he grapples with his actions. In this thrilling and emotional finale, the pair must reunite to combat an ancient danger.
The final book in The Cemeteries of Amalo Trilogy, The Tomb of Dragons, explores Thara Celehar’s identity after losing his role as Witness for the Dead. With murder and political turmoil at its core, Katherine Addison promises a compelling and satisfying conclusion.
In the sequel to The Tainted Cup, Ana and Din investigate the disappearance of a Treasury officer, uncovering a grand conspiracy. With intricate plotting and a mysterious killer, A Drop of Corruption is a thrilling follow-up to Bennett’s 2024 hit.
The Powerless Trilogy concludes with Fearless, as Paedyn, Kai, and Kitt face their ultimate challenges. With conflicts between Elites and Ordinaries reaching a crescendo, this installment promises to be the most devastating and compelling yet.
Joe Abercrombie introduces a new series with The Devils, following Brother Diaz as he allies with a team of killers and monsters to combat flesh-eating Elves. Gritty and dark, this novel combines Abercrombie’s trademark style with high-stakes adventure.
V.E. Schwab’s Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil connects three women across centuries in a tale of female rage, vampires, and forbidden love. With Schwab’s signature nuanced storytelling, this novel promises to be haunting and thought-provoking.
The conclusion to The Scorched Throne Duology, The Jasad Crown, forces Sylvia to face her destiny. With Arin racing to reach her and her kingdom in peril, this finale delivers a nerve-wracking and emotional conclusion to Sara Hashem’s debut series.
In A Theory of Dreaming, Effy and Preston return to face the aftermath of their choices in A Study in Drowning. Their defiance of their university and nation leads to greater conflicts, promising a gripping continuation of Reid’s acclaimed debut.
T. Kingfisher’s Hemlock & Silver reimagines Snow White with a dark twist. Anja, a healer and poison expert, investigates a princess’s mysterious illness, uncovering secrets with the help of a magical mirror and a narcissistic cat. This imaginative tale is quintessential Kingfisher.
R.F. Kuang’s Katabasis sends two rival magic students to the underworld to rescue their professor, drawing inspiration from Orpheus and Dante. With its mythological underpinnings and intense rivalries, this novel promises to be a standout release in 2025.
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These 2025 fantasy releases promise a year full of adventure, magic, and unforgettable stories. Which of these books are you most excited to read? Let us know in the comments below!
This post contains affiliate links.
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In “An Echo of Things to Come,” the second installment of James Islington’s Licanius Trilogy, readers are treated to an even more intricate and thrilling narrative than its predecessor. The narrative resumes a month after the brutal assault on Ilin Illan, with the four main characters—Davian, Wirr, Asha, and Caeden—each embarking on different paths to stave off a potential invasion.
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Islington’s character development is commendable. The protagonists, Asha, Davian, and Wirr, though fundamentally the same individuals introduced in “The Shadow of What Was Lost,” have evolved significantly in response to both personal and larger-scale challenges. Their occasional reunions and fleeting conversations serve as poignant reminders of their shared past, adding a layer of depth to the narrative.
Caeden, arguably the most pivotal character, is on a quest for self-discovery. His narrative, oscillating between the present and flashbacks, initially confounds with its focus on unfamiliar characters and places from millennia ago. However, this narrative choice effectively mirrors Caeden’s own process of piecing together his hidden memories and determining his true identity. His journey raises intriguing questions about morality, identity, and the nature of power.
Despite the complexity of the plot and the vast world-building, Islington’s writing style remains accessible. The world of the Licanius Trilogy is one that readers can easily immerse themselves in, making “An Echo of Things to Come” a rewarding read for fans of epic fantasy. The book leaves readers eagerly anticipating the final installment of the trilogy, eager to see how the characters’ paths will converge in the face of the looming threat.
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“Anyone can face ease and success with confidence. It is the way we face trouble and misfortune that defines us. Self-pity goes with selfishness, and there is nothing more to be deplored in a leader than that. Selfishness belongs to children, and to half-wits. A great leader puts others before himself. You would be surprised how acting so makes it easier to bear one’s own troubles. In order to act like a King, one need only treat everyone else like one.” (Joe Abercrombie, Before They Are Hanged)
I have the pleasure of diving into the pages of Traitor’s Blade, the debut novel by Sebastien de Castell. This novel is the first entry in the critically-acclaimed Greatcoats series, a swashbuckling adventure set in the fictional realm of Tristia.
Traitor’s Blade follows the story of Falcio Val Mond, the First Cantor of the Greatcoats, a group of traveling magistrates and warriors who once served the now-deceased King Paelis. Alongside his companions, Kest and Brasti, Falcio embarks on a thrilling journey to preserve their king’s legacy and restore justice to the kingdom. As the trio navigates the treacherous political landscape of Tristia, they must confront the formidable Dukes and Duchesses, who have plunged the realm into chaos after the king’s assassination.
De Castell masterfully weaves a tale of camaraderie, loyalty, and betrayal in a world filled with complex political intrigue and unforgettable characters. The author’s background in fencing and historical reenactment lends an authentic touch to the vivid swordplay and duels that punctuate the novel.
Falcio’s narrative voice is relatable and engaging, drawing the reader into the heart of the story. His unwavering dedication to the Greatcoats’ mission, combined with his moral compass and quick wit, make him a compelling protagonist. Meanwhile, the supporting characters, including Kest and Brasti, are well-rounded and contribute to the story’s emotional depth.
The novel’s pacing is brisk, and de Castell adeptly balances moments of humor and heartbreak with thrilling action sequences. The author also skillfully reveals the broader world of Tristia and its history, hinting at the larger narrative that will unfold in subsequent books.
In conclusion, Traitor’s Blade is an exhilarating and captivating fantasy adventure that pays homage to the swashbuckling tales of old while carving out its own unique space in the genre. Sebastien de Castell has crafted a world full of intrigue and memorable characters, leaving readers eager to follow Falcio and his friends on their quest for justice. This novel is a must-read for fans of epic fantasy and those looking for an immersive, action-packed story with heart.
How I Discovered It
I wish I could say that there was great intention and planning that led me to this book or that it had been on my TBR for a long time. But that’s simply not the case. I finished another book on Scribd and was just browsing the catalog. Traitor’s Blade looked interesting, and I dove in. And I loved it!
Thoughts
As I said, I was pleasantly surprised by this book. The characters are well-developed, and you feel the sense of urgency they have throughout their travels.
In Traitor’s Blade, we join Falcio and his fellow Greatcoats, Brasti, and Kest, on a thrilling journey through a corrupt kingdom. From the very beginning, the novel charges ahead at an exhilarating pace, leaving readers breathless as they experience Falcio’s sheer determination firsthand. The relentless action and challenges faced by our heroes make for an incredibly immersive read, as they must utilize every weapon, tactic, and bit of cunning at their disposal to survive. Through it all, the witty and razor-sharp dialogue stands out as some of the finest in the fantasy genre.
At the heart of this enthralling tale lies the unbreakable bond between Falcio, Brasti, and Kest, which proves to be an absolute delight to behold. Falcio’s strategic mind, Brasti’s cheeky archery skills, and Kest’s unrivaled swordsmanship make for a captivating and formidable trio. Indeed, the comparison to the Three Musketeers is apt, as the natural and playful camaraderie between these characters is one of the novel’s strongest elements. As a reader, you can’t help but laugh, smile, and feel the heartache alongside them as they battle adversity, bicker, and find themselves in the most precarious situations imaginable.
What I Liked About It
The worldbuilding in Traitor’s Blade is top-notch, with a rich history and political landscape that feels fully realized. The addition of the Greatcoats, with their unique blend of law enforcement and warrior skills, adds an intriguing layer to the story. The swordplay scenes are also incredibly well-written and exciting, making this a must-read for fans of action-packed fantasy.
What I Didn’t Like About It
One thing that might be a drawback for some readers is the occasional nonlinear storytelling, which can make the timeline of events feel a bit disjointed at times.
Who Would Like It?
As a fan of the book, I wholeheartedly recommend Traitor’s Blade to anyone looking for a fast-paced, action-packed fantasy adventure that showcases the power of friendship, loyalty, and the human spirit. Other books in the Greatcoats series include Knight’s Shadow, Saint’s Blood, and Tyrant’s Throne.
Other Books You Might Enjoy:
The Lies of Locke Lamora (Gentleman Bastard #1) by Scott Lynch – A gritty, fast-paced tale of a talented con artist and his band of thieves in a richly detailed fantasy world.
The Blade Itself (The First Law Trilogy #1) by Joe Abercrombie – A dark, character-driven fantasy that delves into the lives of a diverse group of protagonists, each with their own agendas and motives.
The Riyria Revelations series by Michael J. Sullivan – A captivating fantasy series following a pair of thieves, Royce Melborn and Hadrian Blackwater, as they navigate a world filled with political intrigue, danger, and adventure.
Kings of the Wyld (The Band #1) by Nicholas Eames – A humorous and heartfelt story about a group of retired mercenaries who reunite for one last epic quest.
Six of Crows (Six of Crows #1) by Leigh Bardugo – A fast-paced, character-driven heist story set in a richly imagined world featuring a diverse and morally complex cast of characters.
The Powder Mage Trilogy by Brian McClellan – A gripping tale of magic, politics, and revolution set in a unique world where powder mages wield gunpowder-based sorcery.
The Night Angel Trilogy by Brent Weeks – An action-packed fantasy series following the story of a young assassin, Azoth, as he navigates the treacherous world of magic and politics.
The Shadow of the Wind (The Cemetery of Forgotten Books #1) by Carlos Ruiz Zafón – A literary thriller set in post-war Barcelona, where a young boy discovers a mysterious book that changes his life and leads him on a dangerous quest.
The Farseer Trilogy by Robin Hobb – A richly detailed, character-driven epic fantasy series following the life of FitzChivalry Farseer, a royal bastard turned assassin, and his complex relationships with those around him.
The Broken Empire Trilogy by Mark Lawrence – A dark and compelling fantasy series about a ruthless prince, Jorg Ancrath, who embarks on a brutal journey to claim his birthright and conquer a fractured empire.
In the bustling, corrupt city of Camorr, an orphan named Locke Lamora emerges as an ingenious thief, a master of deception, and the leader of a band of skilled swindlers known as the Gentleman Bastards. In Scott Lynch’s captivating debut novel, “The Lies of Locke Lamora,” we are transported to a richly imagined world of criminal intrigue and breathtaking adventures that keep us hooked from the very first page.
The story follows the life of Locke Lamora from his tragic childhood to his rise as a skilled con artist under the tutelage of Father Chains, a blind priest who is, in fact, a criminal mastermind. Alongside his fellow Gentleman Bastards, Locke sets out to carry off the ultimate heist: swindling the city’s wealthy nobles of their fortunes while avoiding the attention of the city’s powerful criminal underworld, led by the mysterious figure known as Capa Barsavi.
As the plot unfolds, the stakes rise, and the intricate web of lies and deception grows ever more tangled. The Gentleman Bastards find themselves embroiled in a perilous game of cat and mouse with the enigmatic Gray King, a deadly figure who seeks to overthrow the established criminal order. As the danger escalates, Locke must use every ounce of his cunning and guile to outwit his enemies and protect his friends while navigating the thin line between loyalty and betrayal.
Lynch’s writing is a delightful blend of humor, suspense, and rich world-building. He has created an intricate, layered society that mirrors the complexities of our own world. The Lies of Locke Lamora is a tale of friendship, loyalty, and the fine art of deception. With its vivid characters, razor-sharp dialogue, and thrilling action sequences, the novel is a masterclass in storytelling.
In summary, “The Lies of Locke Lamora” is an enthralling and inventive fantasy novel that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series. Scott Lynch has created an unforgettable protagonist in Locke Lamora, a character whose cunning and charm will undoubtedly resonate with fans of the genre. A must-read for anyone who enjoys immersive world-building, clever heists, and unforgettable characters.
How I Discovered It
This book was recommended to me by nearly everyone I know who reads books similar to those I enjoy.
Thoughts
While I enjoyed the book, it did take some time for me to get into it. There is quite a bit of world-building at the beginning of the book, so much so that I began to wonder exactly where the plot would end up.
However, once the story picked up, I was completely engrossed. The characters are well-developed, and the plot is full of unexpected twists and turns. I especially enjoyed the intricate heists that Locke and his crew pull off. The world-building is also impressive, with vivid descriptions of the city of Camorr and its various factions.
What I Liked About It
I loved the dynamic between the members of the Gentleman Bastards and the witty banter that they engage in. The world-building is also fantastic, and I found myself fully immersed in the richly imagined city of Camorr.
What I Didn’t Like About It
As mentioned before, the beginning of the book can be slow due to the extensive world-building. Additionally, some of the violent scenes may be too graphic for some readers.
Who Would Like It?
Fans of fantasy heist novels will love “The Lies of Locke Lamora.” It’s a great choice for readers who enjoy complex plots, well-developed characters, and immersive world-building.
I’m consistently working to keep my reading on track this year. I have a book with me wherever I go (physical & ebook) and carve out a little time each day.
Some days more than others 😉
Here are the books I read/finished reading during May 2022:
OK, this is a total brain dump post as I just need to get some thoughts down. My mind is racing with ideas and I just need to write. But I’m going to share this with you because… reasons…
I love reading. However, I’ve not always been the most dedicated reader. Far too often I have relied on moving pictures in one form or another to keep me entertained and/or intellectually engaged. I love movies and tv shows. I love documentaries.
But I really love the worlds I can transport to within the pages of a book. Fiction, non-fiction, I don’t care.
As I said, I haven’t always been the best reader. It was far easier to just sit on my computer, watch the TV, or stare at my smartphone.
Then, about two years ago, I committed to reading more. I felt that I had missed so many opportunities to read great books that I couldn’t waste any more time. After all, I’m 45 as I’m writing this and, statistically, I’m about halfway done with my time on this pale blue dot.
So I started reading more. Consequently, I started buying more books.
Like, a ton of books. Seriously. I just had six show up at my house today.
And not just little books. Big books. BIG f’n books.
Here’s the list that showed up today (all Amazon links):
Last month, I ordered ten physical books (most in the fantasy genre) and 10-12 ebooks (I have a Kindle Unlimited account, too).
Yes, I have a problem. I’m trying to play catch up for years of not really reading books. And I’ll never reach my goal.
My Goodreads “to be read” list is almost 1,500 books long. And growing.
Why do I have a problem? Because I have become insatiably curious and full of fanciful dreams. I didn’t explore my passions for too long because I was concerned about what other people thought about me.
I’ll write that off as having spent my time in a fundamentalist, controlling, right-wing, bible-thumping church from the ages of 11 to 25. Oh, well.
Now, I’m running after learning about the things that excite me. And enjoying the things I love.
