I did make a TikTok about this ( @thefictionfeature on TikTok and IG 😉 ), but who has the attention span for 2:33 of a disembodied voice incoherently rambling about YA books? Not me, that’s for sure. Anyways, here’s what I’m looking forward to. The same disclaimer as in my TikTok applies here; I’ve read some of these so the praise is educated, but some is just excitement. Also, I’m numbering these because I feel like it, not ranking them. These books are all fantastic.
First up: READ
- Extasia by Claire Legrand – Iffy in terms of age but dystopian horror
This wouldn’t be The Fiction Feature if I didn’t mention my one and only, Claire Legrand. I have seen NO hype around Extasia, but it comes out 2/22, so y’all need to get it together! This book has a lot of trigger warnings because of the subject material, but it’s about a religious cult, the teenage girls they chose as saints, and the witches who live in the woods. This book is so unpredictable and perfect for fans of Elana K. Arnold. The review will be out at noon on 2/23!
2. Violet Made of Thorns by Gina Chen – YA fantasy
This book is the definition of elite. I’ll be posting my full review of the book soon, but everything about it is perfect. It doesn’t have a single flaw. Fight me on this, I dare you. This is like if The Cruel Prince by Holly Black was actually what everyone thinks it is. I will never shut up about this book. I’ve been harassing my friend to read it for weeks. She literally has no way of doing so, I’m just obsessed. READ IT!
3. A River Enchanted by Rebecca Ross – Adult fantasy
I was expecting ARE to blow me away, but it was even better than expected. It had multiple POVs, extremely lovable characters, and twists that made me want to cry. Everyone I know who has read this book absolutely adored it, and for good reason. I have a book box edition of it that I can’t wait to get!!!
4. The City of Dusk by Tara Sim – Adult dark fantasy
I’ve only read one Tara Sim book besides this, but I loved them both. TCOD had seven-ish different POVs and while it wasn’t always the easiest to understand, boy was it engaging. Although I wasn’t always on the same page as the characters, it’s one of the most readable adult fantasy books I’ve read in a while. I’m so excited for The Midnight Kingdom.
Next, the UNREADS!
- Bloodmarked by Tracy Deonn – YA fantasy
Legendborn is one of the best books I’ve read in a while, so I obviously can’t wait for Bloodmarked! The first book was engaging and amazing from page one, and I need more of all of the characters IMMEDIATELY.
2. Wildbound by Elayne Audrey Becker – YA fantasy
When I tell you I would do anything for this book, I mean it. I’m so incredibly excited for the sequel to one of my 2021 favorites!!! I was on the tour for Forestborn, so feel free to check on my review! I recommend that book to EVERYONE.
3. All of Our Demise by Christine Lynn Herman and Amanda Foody – YA fantasy
Although All of Us Villains wasn’t what I had imagined, it was amazing nonetheless. With that ending, it’s no surprise that I’m foaming at the mouth for the sequel! Amanda Foody is truly another autobuy for me, and I loved the characters of All of Us Villains, so this book is sure to wreck me.
4. The Ones We Burn by Rebecca Mix YA fantasy
When I say most anticipated, I mean it. I’ve been looking forward to this book for MONTHS. Simon & Schuster, I would do anything for an ARC. Sapphic murder with blood witches and chaos? GIVE IT TO ME. I can’t even give many legitimate reasons for wanting this book because every time I think about it, I’m consumed by the immaculate vibes it’s already providing. This book will be a BookTok sensation, mark my words. (S&S please I wasn’t kidding I’ll do whatever you want)
Anyways, thanks for reading! I’ll try to do more recommendation lists and most anticipated’s in the future, but for now, I’ve got a lot of reviews scheduled for y’all! See you on Wednesday for my review of Extasia!
The Fiction Feature 