Fantasy worlds are bursting with magic, mythical creatures, and thrilling quests. But who says heroes always have to be men? It has long been a realm where powerful heroines thrive, breaking stereotypes and captivating readers with their strength, intelligence, and resilience. From epic quests to magical realms, these nine fantasy books feature unforgettable female protagonists who lead the charge in their own unique worlds. Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy reader or just diving into the genre, these books are sure to transport you to new realms and inspire you with their tales of bravery and adventure.
Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson
Goodreads Score: 4.44/5
In a world where the dark lord has ruled for a thousand years, Vin, a young street urchin, discovers she has the power to manipulate metals. As she joins a group of rebels, led by the enigmatic Kelsier, Vin learns the secrets of Allomancy and discovers her destiny to overthrow the tyrant. With intricate world-building and a complex magic system, Mistborn is a thrilling ride from start to finish, led by the fierce and determined Vin.
Graceling by Kristin Cashore
Goodreads Score: 4.09/5
Katsa lives in a world where certain individuals are born with “Graces,” special powers that mark them as elites. But Katsa’s Grace is feared—she’s Graced with killing. As she questions her role in serving a corrupt king, Katsa embarks on a journey that challenges her beliefs and leads her to uncover a sinister plot. With its strong themes of empowerment and self-discovery, Graceling is a gripping tale that will leave you rooting for its bold and resourceful heroine.
Uprooted by Naomi Novik
Goodreads Score: 4.10/5
Agnieszka’s quiet village lies on the edge of a sinister forest controlled by a malevolent being known as the Dragon. Every ten years, the Dragon selects a girl to serve him. When Agnieszka is unexpectedly chosen, she discovers untapped magical abilities within herself. As she learns to harness her powers, Agnieszka becomes embroiled in a battle against the forces of darkness threatening her home. Uprooted is a beautifully crafted fairy tale with a fierce and compassionate heroine at its heart.
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
Goodreads Score: 4.23/5
In a world threatened by an ancient dragon, Queen Sabran IX of Inys must navigate treacherous politics and dark magic to protect her realm. Meanwhile, Ead Duryan, a mage with a secret mission, finds herself drawn into a web of intrigue that spans continents. As their paths converge, these two women must confront their destinies and confront the darkness that threatens to consume their world. The Priory of the Orange Tree is an epic fantasy featuring complex characters and rich world-building, anchored by its strong and determined heroines.
The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden
Goodreads Score: 4.12/5
Set in medieval Russia, The Bear and the Nightingale follows Vasilisa, a young girl with the ability to see and communicate with the spirits of the forest. But as Christianity spreads and old beliefs fade, Vasilisa must embrace her powers to protect her family and her homeland from dark forces. With its lush prose and vivid setting, this enchanting tale is a celebration of courage and the power of the human spirit.
Circe by Madeline Miller
Goodreads Score: 4.31/5
Circe, the immortal witch of Greek mythology, takes center stage in this captivating retelling of her story. Banished by the gods to a deserted island, Circe discovers her own power of witchcraft and transforms the world around her. But as she crosses paths with famous figures from Greek mythology, including Odysseus and Hermes, Circe must confront her own vulnerabilities and forge her own path. With its lyrical prose and compelling characterization, Circe is a mesmerizing journey into the heart of a timeless myth.
The Bone Season by Samantha Shannon
Goodreads Score: 3.75/5
In a future where clairvoyants are hunted by a totalitarian regime, Paige Mahoney possesses a rare and powerful gift. But when she is captured and imprisoned, Paige discovers a hidden world of magic and intrigue, controlled by an otherworldly race known as the Rephaim. As she navigates this dangerous underworld, Paige must confront her own identity and decide where her loyalties lie. The Bone Season is a gripping blend of fantasy and dystopia, driven by its resilient and resourceful heroine.
Seraphina by Rachel Hartman
Goodreads Score: 3.98/5
In the kingdom of Goredd, where humans and dragons coexist uneasily, Seraphina Dombegh harbors a dangerous secret—she is half-dragon, half-human. As tensions between the two species escalate, Seraphina finds herself drawn into a conspiracy that threatens to unravel the fragile peace. With its richly imagined world and complex characters, Seraphina is a captivating tale of identity, acceptance, and the power of empathy.
The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang
Goodreads Score: 4.10/5
Rin is a war orphan determined to escape her provincial upbringing and secure a place at the prestigious Sinegard Academy. But when she discovers she has shamanic powers, Rin’s destiny takes a darker turn as she becomes embroiled in a brutal conflict between the Nikara Empire and the Federation of Mugen. Drawing inspiration from Chinese history and mythology, The Poppy War is a visceral and uncompromising tale of war, power, and the price of ambition, anchored by its fierce and morally complex heroine.
These nine fantasy books offer a diverse array of worlds, characters, and themes, but they all have one thing in common—their unforgettable female protagonists who defy expectations and inspire readers with their strength and resilience. Whether you are drawn to epic quests, political intrigue, or magical realms, these books are sure to transport you to new worlds and leave you eagerly turning the pages until the very end.
