Every year I put together this list of new YA Fantasy books releasing and every year I add at least two dozen books to my TBR. I don’t always read them all, but I try to keep up to date with what’s going on with my favorite YA authors. This year’s list of YA Fantasy Releases 2023 is proving to be just as large as last year.
This list is for you and for me to keep organized and be “in the know.” Bookmark it and come back to it throughout the year. I add new books on a regular basis as they get announced.
I hope you’ll use this as a resource and that you find it helpful.
2023 Debut YA Fantasy Authors
Debut authors have a special place in my heart. It’s tough to be a debut author. No one knows who you are and you have to prove yourself. To give them some extra exposure, below is a list of all the debut books releasing in 2023.
- A Ruinous Fate by Kaylie Smith (January 3rd)
- Unseelie by Ivelisse Housman (January 3rd)
- Spice Road by Maiya Ibrahim (January 24th)
- Seven Faceless Saints by M.K. Lobb (February 7th)
- Revelle by Lyssa Mia Smith (February 14th)
- Nightbirds by Kate J. Armstrong (February 28th)
- Lies We Sing to the Sea by Sarah Underwood (March 7th)
- Midnight Strikes by Zeba Shahnaz (March 14th)
- Ravensong by Cayla Fay (March 14th)
- The Moonlight Blade by Tessa Barbosa (March 21st)
- A Realm of Ash and Shadow by Lara Buckheit (April 11th)
- That Self-Same Metal by Brittany N. Williams (April 25th)
- And Break the Pretty Kings by Lena Jeong (June 20th)
January 2023 YA Fantasy Releases
The Stolen Heir by Holly Black (The Stolen Heir #1)
Release Date: January 3, 2023
Return to the world of Elfhame popularized in Holly Black’s Cruel Prince series. This new duology centers on Oak, Jude’s younger brother, and Suren, the queen of the Court of Teeth, who we met in The Queen of Nothing.
Eight years have passed since the end of The Queen of Nothing and Oak is now 17 years old.
It’ll be tought to say goodbye to Jude, but I’m looking forward to this one.
Song of Silver, Flame Like Night by Amelie Wen Zhao (Song of the Last Kingdom #1)
Release Date: January 3, 2023
Son of Silver, Flame Like Night is the start of a new series by Amelie Wen Zhao. I read her debut novel, Blood Heir, and really enjoyed it. I haven’t finished the series yet, but I want to.
I know many of you are excited for Song of Silver as I’ve seen it listed a couple of times in posts on the YA Fantasy Addicts community wall.
A Ruinous Fate by Kaylie Smith (Heartless Fates #1) (DEBUT)
Release Date: January 3, 2023
A Ruinous Fate is a debut so not much is known about it. It’s a witchy book that appears to involve a prophesied world-ending war, betrayals, and romance.
Unseelie by Ivelisse Housman (DEBUT)
Release Date: January 3, 2023
Another debut, Unseelie sounds interesting. By the title you can assume it’s about the Fae, and it is. But as you read the book description, you’ll discover “Seelie” is the name of one of the characters. An odd choice if there are Seelie and Unseelie people in the world. Or there aren’t Seelie and Unseelie, and that’s simply a hook to get you interested.
This book about is about two sisters who are complete opposites that are on the run and have two different goals in their adventure together.
The main character, Iselia, aka Seelie, is also autistic.
Hell Bent by Leigh Bardugo (Alex Stern #2)
Release Date: January 10, 2023
Hell Bent is not a YA Fantasy novel. It’s the sequel to Leigh Bardugo‘s Ninth House.
While most of Bardugo’s books are set in the Grishaverse, this is not one of them. I honestly don’t know a whole lot about the book as I haven’t read Ninth House.
Alex Stern is back to find a gateway to the underworld and steal a soul from hell. Such a simple plan, what could go wrong?
Unraveller by Frances Hardinge
Release Date: January 10, 2023
I learned a long time ago that Frances Hardinge isn’t for me. But I’ve met several people who love her books. That being said, this one does sound interesting, even if the cover is an odd choice.
Unraveller is centered in a world where anyone can cast life-altering curses. Like the one that trapped Nettle in the body of a bird (pictured in the cover). But only one person has the ability to unravel the curses and his name is Kellen.
Together, Kellen and Nettle are companions undoing the wrong in the world. Until Kellen gets cursed himself and unless they can figure out how to fix it, he might just unravel the whole world in the process.
City of Nightmares by Rebecca Schaeffer (City of Nightmares #1)
Release Date: January 10, 2023
Gotham meets Strange the Dreamer in this thrilling young adult fantasy about a cowardly girl who finds herself at the center of a criminal syndicate conspiracy, in a city where crooked politicians and sinister cults reign and dreaming means waking up as your worst nightmare.
Mysteries of Thorn Manor by Margaret Rogerson (Sorcery of Thorns #1.5)
Release Date: January 17, 2023
Sorcery of Thorns was originally planned as a standalone novel, but fans, including myself, loved it so much that Margaret Rogerson decided to continue writing in this wonderful fantasy world.
*Happy dance*
We were all hoping for a Silas-centric novel. This is not that. But Silas is still involved so “Yay!”
Mysteries of Thorn Manor is not a full-length novel, coming in at 192 pages in print, but it’s pretty close. I can’t wait to read it!
Queen Among the Dead by Lesley Livingston
Release Date: January 17, 2023
A stunning Celtic YA fantasy adventure set in the ancient kingdom of Eire, inspired by the legend of the first true queen of Ireland, perfect for fans of Shelby Mahurin and Adrienne Young.
Spice Road by Maiya Ibrahim (The Spice Road #1) (DEBUT)
Release Date: January 24, 2023
The first book in an epic fantasy series for fans of Sabaa Tahir, Hafsah Faizal and Elizabeth Lim, set in an Arabian-inspired land. Raised to protect her nation from the monsters lurking in the sands, seventeen-year-old Imani must fight to find her brother whose betrayal is now their greatest threat.
Chain of Thorns by Cassandra Clare (The Last Hours #3)
Release Date: January 31, 2023
Chain of Thorns is the long awaited and highly anticipated third book in Cassandra Clare’s Last Hours series which is a part of the larger Shadowhunter world.
If you’re new to Shadowhunters, it can be daunting to break into this immersive world. To help you out, we put together this list of all the Cassandra Clare books in order.
One Girl in All the World by Kendare Blake (In Every Generation #2)
Release Date: January 31, 2023
New York Times best-selling author Kendare Blake takes us back to the demon capital of the world in this highly anticipated sequel to In Every Generation, set in the world of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
Hex You by P.C. Cast & Kristin Cast (Sisters of Salem #3)
Release Date: January 31, 2023
Hex You is the newest book in the Sisters of Salem series by P.C. And Kristin Cast, authors of the House of Night series.
February 2023 YA Fantasy Releases
These Infinite Threads by Tahereh Mafi (This Woven Kingdom #2)
Release Date: February 7, 2023
Tahereh Mafi is best known as the author of the Shatter Me series. Last year, she published a new world in This Woven Kingdom. This year, we get the highly anticipated sequel, These Infinite Threads.
I haven’t read This Woven Kingdom yet, but I have purchased it and pre-ordered These Infinite Threads. You might think it’s odd that I pre-ordered a second book when I haven’t read the first, but that’s how confident I am in Tahereh Mafi.
I love her writing and can’t wait to dive into both of these books.
Stardust in Their Veins by Laura Sebastian (Castles in Their Bones #2)
Release Date: February 7, 2023
Immerse yourself in the second book in a fantasy trilogy from the New York Times bestselling author of the Ash Pricess series. The sequel to Castles in Their Bones is the story of three princesses and the destiny they were born for: seduction, conquest, and the crown.
Seven Faceless Saints by M.K. Lobb (Seven Faceless Saints #1) (DEBUT)
Release Date: February 7, 2023
Another debut in the dark fantasy subgenre.
Discover what’s lurking in the shadows in this dark fantasy debut with a murder-mystery twist, perfect for fans of Leigh Bardugo and Kerri Maniscalco.
The Severed Thread by Leslie Vedder (The Bone Spindle #2)
Release Date: February 7, 2023
Clever, bookish Fi and her brash, ax-wielding partner Shane are back in this action packed sequel to the bestselling The Bone Spindle by Leslie Vedder, the gender-flipped Sleeping Beauty retelling, perfect for fans of Sorcery of Thorns and The Cruel Prince.
The Sweetest Betrayal by Natalie Mae (The Kinder Poison #3)
Release Date: February 14, 2023
In this heart-pounding conclusion to The Kinder Poison trilogy—which People magazine proclaimed a “delicious high-stakes adventure”—war looms over Orkena, but can Zahru save her people without losing herself?
Revelle by Lyssa Mia Smith (DEBUT)
Release Date: February 14, 2023
Inspired by Moulin Rouge! and set on an island in a magical version of Prohibition-era New York, Revelle is a breathtaking YA stand-alone fantasy full of dazzling magic, romance, and mystery from debut author Lyssa Mia Smith.
The Beauty Trials by Dhonielle Clayton (The Belles #3)
Release Date: February 14, 2023
In this all-new novel from the world of Dhonielle Clayton’s sweeping, lush Belles series, rebellious, outspoken, fan-favorite Edel Beauregard enters the Beauty Trials―a deadly competition to find the next Queen of Orléans.
A Tournament of Crowns by Elise Kova (A Trial of Sorcerers #3)
Release Date: February 27, 2023
Elise Kova is best known for her Air Awakens series. While I haven’t had the pleasure of reading it, I do have the first book in A Trial of Sorcerers. A Tournament of Crowns is the third book in this series and is associated with the greater Air Awakens universe.
The only books from Elise Kova I’ve read are her Married to Magic books, which will see the fourth book releasing later this year. Keep reading for more info on that.
Last Violent Call by Chloe Gong (Foul Lady Fortune #1.5)
Release Date: February 28, 2023
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Chloe Gong comes two captivating new novellas surrounding the events of Foul Lady Fortune!
Nightbirds by Kate J. Armstrong (Nightbirds #1) (DEBUT)
Release Date: February 28, 2023
In a dazzling new fantasy world full of whispered secrets and political intrigue, the magic of women is outlawed but four girls with unusual powers have the ability to change it all.
The Wicked Bargain by Gabe Cole Novoa
Release Date: February 28, 2023
El Diablo is in the details in this Latinx pirate fantasy starring a transmasculine nonbinary teen with a mission of revenge, redemption, and revolution.
A Day of Fallen Night by Samantha Shannon (The Roots of Chaos #0)
Release Date: February 28, 2023
The stunning, standalone prequel to the New York Times bestselling The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon.
The Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi by S.A. Chakraborty (Amina Al-Sirafi #1)
Release Date: February 28, 2023
This one is not YA, but I absolutely loved The City of Brass (also not YA, but felt YA-ish) so I wanted to include S.A. Chakraborty’s newest upcoming book.
I know the YA community as a whole will appreciate this one. Truthfully, I’m a bit on the fence about buying it. Only because that cover doesn’t give me the same vibes as her previous series and I’m not sure I’d like it. You may look at the cover and love it.
I’ll wait until I can read some reviews before diving into this one.
March 2023 YA Fantasy Releases
Lies We Sing to the Sea by Sarah Underwood (DEBUT)
Release Date: March 7, 2023
Each spring, Ithaca condemns twelve maidens to the noose. This is the price vengeful Poseidon demands for the lives of Queen Penelope’s twelve maids, hanged and cast into the depths centuries ago.
Midnight Strikes by Zeba Shahnaz (DEBUT)
Release Date: March 14, 2023
In this explosive fantasy debut with a time-loop twist, a provincial girl must work with a roguish prince to stop an attack on the royal family and escape a nightmarish curse that forces them to relive the same night again and again.
Flowerheart by Catherine Bakewell
Release Date: March 14, 2023
Perfect for fans of Margaret Rogerson and Tamora Pierce, this standalone YA debut is a stunning cottagecore fantasy romance about a girl with powerful and violent magic, which she must learn to control—or lose everything she loves.
Ravensong by Cayla Fay (DEBUT)
Release Date: March 14, 2023
A demi-god who refuses to cohabitate with humans accidentally falls in love with one in the first book of a pulse-pounding teen duology that’s Buffy the Vampire Slayer meets Celtic mythology.
Defiant by Brandon Sanderson (Skyward #4)
Release Date: March 16, 2023 (PLACEHOLDER DATE)
We don’t have an official cover or release date yet for Defiant. Brandon Sanderson is a writing machine though, and if he says it will be out in Spring/Summer 2023, it will be out in Spring/Summer.
The date listed is the date on Goodreads, but no official release date has been announced. Defiant is the fourth book in Brandon Sanderson’s Cytoverse series. This is unrelated to his more famous Cosmere books.
I have read every single one of Brandon Sanderson’s books, and I am excited to get my hands on Defiant as soon as it becomes available.
The Witch and the Vampire by Francesca Flores
Release Date: March 21, 2023
Francesca Flores’s The Witch and the Vampire is a queer Rapunzel retelling where a witch and a vampire who trust no one but themselves must journey together through a cursed forest with danger at every turn.
The Moonlight Blade by Tessa Barbosa (DEBUT)
Release Date: March 21, 2023
An atmospheric, edge-of-your-seat fantasy from a debut Filipina-Canadian author that combines the grit of The Witcher with the voice of Rin Chupeco.
Lucha of the Night Forest by Tehlor Kay Mejia
Release Date: March 21, 2023
An edge-of-your-seat fantasy about a girl who will do anything to protect her sister–even if it means striking a dangerous bargain. Dark forces, forgotten magic, and a heart-stopping queer romance make this young adult novel a must-read.
Chaos & Flame by Tessa Gratton & Justina Ireland (Chaos & Flame #1)
Release Date: March 28, 2023
From New York Times bestselling author Justina Ireland and Tessa Gratton comes the first book in a ferocious YA fantasy duology featuring ancient magic, warring factions, and a romance between the two people in the world with the most cause to hate one another.
Greymist Fair by Francesca Zappia
Release Date: March 28, 2023
Inspired by the original, bloody, lesser-known fairytales of the Brothers Grimm, acclaimed author Francesca Zappia crafts an enthralling murder-mystery that will keep readers turning the pages.
A Door in the Dark by Scott Reintgen
Release Date: March 28, 2023
One of Us is Lying meets A Deadly Education in this fantasy thriller that follows six teenage wizards as they fight to make it home alive after a malfunctioning spell leaves them stranded in the wilderness.
April 2023 YA Fantasy Releases
Silver in the Bone by Alexandra Bracken (Silver in the Bone #1)
Release Date: April 4, 2023
I love Alexandra Bracken’s books. She’s an auto-buy author for me. From the moment I read The Darkest Minds books, I’ve been hooked. I even love the Darkest Minds movie, so much so that I’m saddened there will likely never be a Darkest Minds 2 movie.
The newest release from Alexandra Bracken is Silver in the Bone, a more traditional fantasy than her previous releases, and I’m all here for it.
Spell Bound by F.T. Lukens
Release Date: April 4, 2023
Two rival apprentice sorcerers must team up to save their teachers and protect their own magic in this lively young adult romantic adventure from the New York Times bestselling author of In Deeper Waters and So This Is Ever After.
Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross (Iris at the Front #1)
Release Date: April 4, 2023
When two young rival journalists find love through a magical connection, they must face the depths of hell, in a war among gods, to seal their fate forever. Shadow and Bone meets Lore in this epic enemies-to-lovers fantasy novel filled with hope and heartbreak, and the unparalleled power of love.
Ruling Destiny by Alyson Noel (Stolen Beauty #2)
Release Date: April 4, 2023
The Da Vinci Code meets Riverdale, set in a unique boarding school in the next installment in the Stealing Infinity series from #1 New York Times bestselling author Alyson Noël.
Stars and Smoke by Marie Lu (Stars and Smoke #1)
Release Date: April 4, 2023
This is not a fantasy book. If you’ve been following Marie Lu as much as I have over the years, you’re probably aware that her books have been skewing less and less fantasy. This one breaks from the mold entirely with a YA Contemporary Romance spy thriller.
The only reason it’s on the list is because Marie Lu is a beloved YA Fantasy author, and you may be interested in other books from this prolific author, even if it doesn’t have anything to do with fantasy.
When You Wish Upon a Star by Elizabeth Lim (Twisted Tales #14)
Release Date: April 4, 2023
The newest release in the Disney Twisted Tales series is When You Wish Upon A Star. We’re supposed to get two or three more in 2023 according to the Wiki, but no release info is available yet.
If you’re unfamiliar with the Twisted Tales series, they take popular Disney tales you’re familiar with and twists a key feature that totally changes the story. Though this is Book 14, they are all standalones and can be read individually.
When You Wish Upon A Star is written by YA Fantasy great, Elizabeth Lim, author of Spin the Dawn and Six Crimson Cranes.
A Realm of Ash and Shadow by Lara Buckheit (A Realm of Ash and Shadow #1) (DEBUT)
Release Date: April 11, 2023
Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Kerri Maniscalco, A Realm of Ash and Shadow will captivate readers until the very last page.
Master of Souls by Rena Barron (Kingdom of Souls #3)
Release Date: April 11, 2023
A king with a score to settle.
A demon driven to rebel.
A girl who holds the power of the gods.
He Who Breaks the Earth by Caitlin Sangster (The Gods-Touched #2)
Release Date: April 11, 2023
Wicked Saints meets There Will Come a Darkness in this sequel to the atmospheric, “tightly woven” (Brandon Sanderson, New York Times bestselling author) She Who Rides the Storm that follows the four thieves turned unlikely allies as one of their own decides where their loyalties lie.
To Save a Kingdom by Nisha J. Tuli (Curse of Thorne #2)
Release Date: April 11, 2023
Because sometimes happy endings are only an illusion…
To Save a Kingdom is the second book in the Curse of Thorne Duet, perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Jennifer L. Armentrout, and Raven Kennedy. It features a ‘why choose’ romance, enemies to lovers, and a happily ever after (for real this time).
A Hunger of Thorns by Lili Wilkinson (A Hunger of Thorns #1)
Release Date: April 18, 2023
Maude is the daughter of witches. She spent her childhood running wild with her best friend, Odette, weaving stories of girls who slayed dragons and saved princes. Then Maude grew up and lost her magic—and her best friend.
Snow & Poison by Melissa de la Cruz
Release Date: April 18, 2023
Love is stronger than poison in this lush retelling of “Snow White” by #1 New York Times bestselling author Melissa de la Cruz.
That Self-Same Metal by Brittany N. Williams (DEBUT)
Release Date: April 25, 2023
A stunning YA fantasy debut, perfect for fans of Holly Black and Justina Ireland, about a Black girl (and sword expert) fighting a Fae uprising in Shakespearean London.
May 2023 YA Fantasy Releases
The Isles of the Gods by Amie Kaufman (The Isles of the Gods #1)
Release Date: May 2, 2023
Magic, romance, and slumbering gods clash in the start of a riveting fantasy series that spans gangsters’ dens, forgotten temples, and the high seas from the New York Times bestselling author of the Illuminae Files and the Aurora Cycle.
The Sun and the Star by Rick Riordan & Mark Oshiro (Camp Half-Blood #17)
Release Date: May 2, 2023
The latest book in the Percy Jackson universe is The Sun and The Star. This is the Nico di Angelo and Will Solace adventure that everyone has been waiting for.
Rick Riordan teams up with Mark Oshiro for this book. This book is a stand-alone and is not directly associated with any of the other series within the Percy Jackson universe.
Bitterthorn by Kat Dunn
Release Date: May 4, 2023
Blumwald is a town overshadowed by an ancient curse: in a sinister castle in the depths of the wild wood lives a monstrous Witch. Once a generation, she comes to claim a companion to return with her – never to be seen again. Now that time is drawing near once more…
Cursed Crowns by Catherine Doyle & Katherine Webber (Twin Crowns #2)
Release Date: May 9, 2023
Bestselling authors and real-life sisters-in-law Catherine Doyle and Katherine Webber join forces on a compelling YA fantasy bursting with high-stakes adventure, romance and humour. Two queens, one throne. What can possibly go wrong . . .?
The Iron Vow by Julie Kagawa (Evenfall #3)
Release Date: May 9, 2023
The extraordinary finale to Julie Kagawa’s New York Times and internationally bestselling Iron Fey series is here…and the fate of the Nevernever and all the world hangs in the balance. Join Meghan, Ash, Puck, Grimalkin, and the entire Iron Fey cast for this final epic journey into worlds where imagination knows no boundaries…
Venom & Vow by Anna-Marie McLemore & Elliott McLemore
Release Date: May 16, 2023
Cowritten by married writing team Anna-Marie and Elliott McLemore, this is a lush and powerful YA novel about owning your power and becoming who you really are – no matter the cost.
Court of the Undying Seasons by A.M. Strickland
Release Date: May 16, 2023
Sarah J. Maas meets A Deadly Education in A.M. Strickland’s lush, queer YA dark fantasy novel.
Painted Devils by Margaret Owen (Little Thieves #2)
Release Date: May 16, 2023
Painted Devils by Margaret Owen is Book 2 in her Little Thieves series. Not much else is known about the book at this point.
Bookmark this page for more YA Fantasy Releases 2023 information and updates as they become available.
Of Light and Shadow by Tanaz Bhathena
Release Date: May 23, 2023
When they don’t give us our birthright, we steal it.
Set in a magical world inspired by the badlands of 17th century India, this standalone epic fantasy novel by Tanaz Bhathena is packed with political tensions, dangerous schemes, and swoon-worthy romance that asks the age old question: can love conquer all?
Cherish by Tracy Wolff (Crave #6)
Release Date: May 30, 2023
What happened at Katmere definitely isn’t staying at Katmere…
Grace has finally graduated from Katmere Academy, but the dangers from school aren’t quite done with her. Now she and her friends must travel to the Shadow Realm to rescue one of their own. But there are still a few new surprises waiting for Grace—along with a betrayal that could destroy them all.
June 2023 YA Fantasy Releases
Our Vengeful Souls by Kristi McManus
Release Date: June 6, 2023
In line with the classic fairy tale The Little Mermaid (Hans Christian Anderson) and the mythological adventure Lore (Alexandra Bracken), Our Vengeful Souls takes you on a journey of loss, love and vengeance, into the life of one of fairy tales most famous villains.
A Spark in the Cinders by Jenny Elder Moke
Release Date: June 6, 2023
Holly Black’s The Cruel Prince meets Jennifer Donnelly’s Stepsister in this fairytale reimagining about a kingdom on the brink of ruin, and one wicked stepsister’s journey from side character to heroine of her own quest
Gold by Raven Kennedy (The Plated Prisoner #5)
Release Date: June 8, 2023
‘Find me in another life. Find me in all of them’
It all ends now.
Discover the heart-stopping finale to the international and Amazon bestselling fantasy phenomenon
Threads That Bind by Kika Hatzopoulou
Release Date: June 13, 2023
In a world where the children of the gods inherit their powers, a descendant of the Greek Fates must solve a series of impossible murders to save her sisters, her soulmate, and her city.
Legends and Liars by Morgan Rhodes (Echoes and Empires #2)
Release Date: June 13, 2023
This riveting sequel to Echoes and Empires sees Joss and Jericho team up with some of their greatest enemies—including two of the most powerful mages in the world—to bring an end to the queen’s empire of lies, from New York Times bestselling author Morgan Rhodes.
And Break the Pretty Kings by Lena Jeong (DEBUT)
Release Date: June 20, 2023
A crown princess. A monster the gods fear. A destiny no one can outrun.Inspired by the historical Three Kingdoms of Korea, the book follows a crown princess who receives a divine gift, and she must choose between the fate of the peninsula and those she loves.
July 2023 YA Fantasy Releases
A Song of Salvation by Alechia Dow
Release Date: July 11, 2023
From the author of The Sound of Stars and The Kindred comes a YA space opera about a reincarnated god and a grumpy pilot on a mission to save a beloved space DJ and stop an intergalactic war.
A Soul of Ash and Blood by Jennifer L. Armentrout (From Blood and Ash)
Release Date: July 18, 2023
The latest book from Jennifer L. Armentrout is listed on Goodreads as Book #5 in the From Blood and Ash series, but do not be fooled. This is not a new book. It’s a rewrite of an old book from a different perspective.
Many of you will be excited to learn that JLA has written From Blood and Ash over again from Casteel’s POV.
I am not.
I will not be buying this book and I find it to be nothing more than a cash grab.
The Third Daughter by Adrienne Tooley
Release Date: July 18, 2023
Book 1 in a sweeping YA duology about legacy, betrayal, sisterhood, and politicizing emotion in the quest for power—all balanced by a slow-burn LGBTQ romance.
Light Bringer by Pierce Brown (Red Rising #6)
Release Date: July 25, 2023
I am so excited for Light Bringer. I read the first three books in the Red Rising series some time ago and LOVED them. I’ve been holding off on starting the next set of books until the 6th one came out.
If you’ve never read Red Rising, it’s a YA sci-fi war-style book that’s a bit of a blend of Hunger Games and Ender’s Game. It’s dark and gritty, but stays YA. It’s perfect and amazing.
House of Roots and Ruin by Erin A. Craig (Sisters of the Salt #2)
Release Date: July 25, 2023
A modern masterpiece, this is a classic Gothic thriller-fantasy from New York Times bestselling author Erin A. Craig, about doomed love, menacing ambition, and the ghosts that haunt us forever.
Bonesmith by Nicki Pau Preto (House of the Dead #1)
Release Date: July 25, 2023
Gideon the Ninth meets the Game of Thrones White Walkers in this dark young adult fantasy about a disgraced ghost-fighting warrior who must journey into a haunted wasteland to rescue a kidnapped prince.
August 2023 YA Fantasy Releases
Bring Me Your Midnight by Rachel Griffin
Release Date: August 1, 2023
From the New York Times bestselling author of The Nature of Witches and Wild is the Witch comes a lush romantic fantasy about forbidden love, the choices we make, and the pull between duty and desire.
A Dream So Wicked by Tessonja Odette (Entangled with Fae #5)
Release Date: August 8, 2023
Not much is known about A Dream So Wicked at this point aside from it being the fifth book in the Entangled with Fae series by Tessonja Odette.
Bookmark this page for more YA Fantasy Releases 2023 information and updates as they become available.
This Cursed Light by Emily Thiede (The Last Finestra #2)
Release Date: August 15, 2023
The highly-anticipated sequel to the epic romance hailed as one of the best fantasies of 2022, This Vicious Grace!
A Duet with the Siren Duke by Elise Kova (Married to Magic #4)
Release Date: August 15, 2023
I am in love with Elise Kova’s Married to Magic series. These books are amazing. Each one is technically a standalone, but they’re all in the same world and for years we’ve been building up to a crossover. At some point it’s going to happen and I’m hoping it’s in this story.
It’s most likely that A Duet with a Siren Duke will still be an isolated tale because we’re talking about a new court of Midscape. But I’m hopeful for that crossover in the the future.
Foxglove by Adalyn Grace (Belladonna #2)
Release Date: August 22, 2023
The captivating sequel to the Gothic-infused Belladonna, in which Signa and Death face a supernatural foe determined to tear them apart.
Never a Hero by Vanessa Len (Monsters #2)
Release Date: August 29, 2023
This sequel to the contemporary fantasy Only a Monster—which New York Times bestselling authors Chloe Gong, Stephanie Garber, and C. S. Pacat called “captivating,” “unputdownable,” and “utterly fresh and unique”—will take Joan deeper into the monster world, where treacherous secrets and even more danger await.
Zhara by S. Jae-Jones (Guardians of the Dawn #1)
Release Date: August 29, 2023
Sailor Moon meets Cinder in Guardians of Dawn: Zhara, the start of a new, richly imagined fantasy series from S. Jae-Jones, the New York Times bestselling author of Wintersong.
Heavenly Tyrant by Xiran Jay Zhao (Iron Widow #2)
Release Date: August 29, 2023
Zetian, now ruler of Chang’an, must balance dangerous politics with her quest for revenge in the sequel to the #1 New York Times bestseller Iron Widow, a blend of Chinese history and mecha science fiction.
The Brothers Hawthorne by Jennifer Lynn Barnes (The Inheritance Games)
Release Date: August 29, 2023
The Brothers Hawthorne is a new standalone tale in the world of The Inheritance Games. Avery’s story completed with The Final Gambit which released in 2022, but Jennifer Lynn Barnes wanted to keep writing the Hawthorne story.
The Brothers Hawthorne features all four brothers, but is primarily about Grayson and Jameson, the two main characters from the original series.
I’ve already pre-ordered this one.
House of Marionne by J. Elle
Release Date: August 29, 2023
From New York Times bestselling author J. Elle comes a modern-day YA romantic fantasy series opener about a glamorous magical world of social elites, forbidden love, and a dark magic that could destroy it all.
Her Radiant Curse by Elizabeth Lim (Six Crimson Cranes)
Release Date: August 29, 2023
I loved Elizabeth Lim’s Spin the Dawn, enjoyed Six Crimson Cranes, but was only so-so over The Dragon’s Promise.
Her Radiant Curse is another book in the same world of both, but is specifically about Channi, also known as Raikama, who was Shiori’s stepmother. This is a prequel because it deals with Channi and her sister when they were younger.
It’s a tale we learned about in more detail in The Dragon’s Promise, and now we’ll get the full story.
Against my better judgement (because of how lackluster I felt The Dragon’s Promise to be) I pre-ordered this one.
September 2023 YA Fantasy Releases
The Scarlet Veil by Shelby Mahurin (The Scarlet Veil #1)
Release Date: September 5, 2023
A dark and thrilling vampire romance set in the world of the New York Times bestselling Serpent & Dove series.
A Curse for True Love by Stephanie Garber (Once Upon a Broken Heart #3)
Release Date: September 12, 2023
My absolute favorite book of 2022 was The Ballad of Never After. I haven’t stopped hyperventilating since finishing it.
So, it goes without saying that A Curse for True Love is my most anticipated book of 2023. But that doesn’t mean I’m not absolutely terrified of what Stephanie Garber has in store for us.
A Curse for True Love is the heart-wrenching conclusion to the Once Upon a Broken Heart Trilogy. Which villain will win Evangeline’s heart?
Fall of Ruin and Wrath by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Release Date: September 12, 2023
Another new book by JLA. This one is being published by Tor Books and is unrelated to From Blood and Ash. It’s a brand new book that everyone can jump into.
It’s an adult fantasy romance with little information known about it at this point, but I’ll probably buy it. I still wish I was getting Book 5 in From Blood and Ash first, though.
A Study in Drowning by Ava Reid
Release Date: September 19, 2023 (PLACEHOLDER DATE)
Effy Sayre has always believed in fairy tales. She’s had no choice. Since childhood, she’s been haunted by visions of the Fairy King. She’s found solace only in the pages of Angharad – author Emrys Myrddin’s beloved epic about a mortal girl who falls in love with the Fairy King, and then destroys him.
This Dark Descent by Kalyn Josephson (This Dark Descent #1)
Release Date: September 26, 2023
Steeped in Jewish folklore, The Scorpio Races meets Peaky Blinders in this dual-POV YA fantasy where the daughter of a famous horse breeder, a black-market enchanter, and an ambitious heir must work together to win a cutthroat enchanted horserace.
The Chalice of the Gods by Rick Riordan (Percy Jackson & the Olympians #6)
Release Date: September 26, 2023
The original heroes from The Lightning Thief are reunited for their biggest challenge yet: getting Percy to college when the gods are standing in his way.
October 2023 YA Fantasy Releases
Throne of the Fallen by Kerri Maniscalco (Kingdom of the Wicked)
Release Date: October 3, 2023
Throne of the Fallen is a standalone book written in the Kingdom of the Wicked universe, told from Envy’s perspective and featuring a new character named Camilla Antonius.
I loved all three of the original books and will be sure to pre-order this one as soon as links become available.
Visions of Flesh and Blood by Jennifer L. Armentrout (From Blood and Ash)
Release Date: October 31, 2023
Another Jennifer L. Armentrout book in the From Blood and Ash series that will be a waste of time. This is not a new book.
This is COMPENDIUM. That means it’s like a companion guide. Do not expect this to continue the series. It’s not.
It’s yet another cash grab and a procrastination from finishing the series we want an end to.
November 2023 YA Fantasy Releases
Vengeance of the Pirate Queen by Tricia Levenseller (Daughter of the Pirate King #3)
Release Date: November 7, 2023
I absolutely love everything Tricia Levenseller writes. I’ve pre-ordered this one already having read the original duology and cannot wait for more tales in the world of Daughter of the Pirate King.
The cover isn’t my favorite though. It’s not even a close match to the previous covers and the real looking photo seems to have been poorly Photoshopped.
Wish of the Wicked by Danielle Paige (Wish of the Wicked #1)
Release Date: November 7, 2023
Bestselling author Danielle Paige puts a dark spin on fairy godmothers in a new YA series for fans of Brigid Kemmerer and Maleficent.
The release of this book has already been delayed 2 years. I’m not hopeful it will release this year either, but it’s listed because this is the current release date posted by the publisher.
The Crimson Fortress by Akshaya Raman (The Ivory Key #2)
Release Date: November 14, 2023
Not much is known about The Crimson Fortress yet, aside from it being the second book in Akshaya Raman’s Ivory Key series.
Bookmark this page for more YA Fantasy Releases 2023 information and updates as they become available.
War Widow by Deborah Falaye (Blood Scion #2)
Release Date: November 21, 2023
War Widow by Deborah Falaye is the sequel to her stunning fantasy debut, Blood Scion.
Return of the Vengeful Queen by C.J. Redwine (Rise of the Vicious Princess #2)
Release Date: November 21, 2023
Return of the Vengeful Queen by C.J. Redwine is the sequel to Rise of the Vicious Princess.
December 2023 YA Fantasy Releases
The Ruined by Renée Ahdieh (The Beautiful #4)
Release Date: December 5, 2023
Our list of YA Fantasy Releases 2023 wouldn’t be complete without The Ruined by Renee Ahdieh. It’s the stunning conclusion to the instant New York Times bestselling quartet that began with The Beautiful.
A Fire in the Flesh by Jennifer L. Armentrout (Flesh and Fire #3)
Release Date: December 12, 2023
Finally, a Jennifer L. Armentrout release in 2023 I can get behind. I love the Flesh and Fire prequel series more than the original From Blood and Ash series.
Bring on more Sera and Nyktos, I’m here for it.
Final Thoughts
What upcoming YA fantasy book releases are you most excited for? Be sure to leave a comment and let me know!
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