Top Fantasy Book Releases Coming This September

Assistant to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer

September 1, 2023

If you’re in the mood for a hilariously twisted tale from the same publisher that brought you “Fourth Wing,” then buckle up for “Assistant to the Villain” by Hannah Nicole Maehrer. This novel, releasing soon, combines the whimsy of “Once Upon a Time” with the workplace humor of “The Office,” and trust me, it’s a match made in fictional heaven.

Meet Evie Sage, the indispensable assistant to Rennedawn’s most notorious villain. Her job is unconventional, to say the least: handling severed heads, squishing errant eyeballs, and oh, did I mention the teeny crush she’s developing on her terrifying (yet undeniably attractive) boss? But don’t get too comfortable with the mayhem; something rotten is brewing in the kingdom, and it’s up to Evie to sniff it out.

Whether you’re drawn to the unexpected romance or the intrigue of dark deeds, “Assistant to the Villain” promises a rollicking adventure that’s both wickedly funny and deliciously evil. Get ready to fall in love with evil… or at least find it oddly appealing. Because, as Evie knows all too well, a good job – especially one this unique – is hard to find!

A Queen of Thieves & Chaos by K. A Tucker:

September 5, 2023

Get ready, fantasy fans, for a wilder ride than a dragon’s flight! Mark your calendars for September 5th because one of the most anticipated September fantasy book releases is about to hit the shelves. “A Queen of Thieves & Chaos” by the internationally acclaimed K.A. Tucker is the third installment in her breathtaking Fate and Flame series.

The kingdom teeters on the edge of turmoil, alliances are forged in unlikely places, and secrets lurk behind the walls of Ulysede. Will they be enough to save the realm, or is the kingdom’s fate already sealed? Join Zander, Romeria, and a cast of unforgettable characters as they navigate a world riddled with betrayal, power struggles, and desperation. Dive into this gripping tale and get lost in the chaos! If you haven’t started this series, now’s the perfect time to catch up. You won’t want to miss out on this thrilling adventure!

The Library of Shadows by Rachel Moore

September 5, 2023

Welcome to Radcliffe Prep, the third most haunted school in the country, where students vanish, and no one dares to linger in the library. Enter Este Logano. She’s here to discover her late father’s past. Ghosts? She doesn’t believe in them.

Meet Mateo, an actual (and very annoying) ghost. He might change Este’s mind, especially after framing her for stealing a rare book.

Now Este’s on a wild chase. Find Mateo. Clear her name. Or get expelled like her dad. But exploring hidden tunnels and haunted halls reveals more than she bargains for. Student disappearances? Not just myths.

The stakes are high, the shadows are dark, and Este’s quest unravels a mystery that might claim her as its next victim. In “The Library of Shadows,” danger lurks, secrets beckon, and Este must decide how far she will go. Will she follow her father’s path, even if it leads her to the unknown?

Midnight at the Houdini by Delilah S. Dawson

September 5, 2023

Meet Anna, the diligent stage manager behind her family’s glitzy Las Vegas act. She’s the backstage star, never shallow, always in control. But a family betrayal sends her fleeing into a storm and right into the mysterious hotel known as The Houdini.

It’s a place like no other, filled with magic and a boy named Max, who’s never known life outside the hotel. He’s curious and earnest, and he’s all eyes for Anna. For one surreal night, Anna is the star, every desire anticipated by the magical hotel.

But here’s the catch: no one enters the Houdini, and no one ever leaves. As midnight approaches, Anna faces an eternal trap.

“Midnight at the Houdini” is a story of magic and mystery, where Anna must discover who she is in the real world, or risk being trapped forever. An impossible escape, a magical hotel, and a choice that could change everything. Can Anna leave, even if it means leaving Max behind? Fans of Caraval and The Starless Sea, prepare to be enchanted.

Fall of Ruin & Wrath by Jennifer L. Armentrout

September 12, 2023

Calista lives by her intuition, hiding as a courtesan, feeding information to the Baron of Archwood. In a world shattered by gods, where only nine cities survive, each ruled by pleasure-hungry guardians, her talents are valuable and dangerous.

When she saves a prince in trouble, her intuition both warns and promises. He’ll bring joy. He’ll be her doom. Now, caught between the Baron’s schemes and the prince’s desires, rebellion stirs in the city.

Monsters at the gates, a prince in her bed, a city on the brink. Calista must choose: follow her intuition or her heart. Either choice could be her downfall. “Fall of Ruin and Wrath” offers a thrilling tale of choice, danger, and destiny.

Playing the Witch Card by K.J. Dell’Antonia

September 12, 2023

Flair Hardwicke swore off magic and love, learning from her mother’s mistakes. But sometimes, magic doesn’t take no for an answer. When her life falls apart, she inherits her grandmother’s home and bakery in Rattleboro, Kansas, and magic creeps back in.

Two exes, one misbehaving mother, and surprising magic—Halloween chaos is brewing. Flair’s Tarot cookies unleash the family deck’s magic, attracting unwanted attention and stirring up trouble.

Her mother shows up; her daughter’s curiosity is piqued; her ex is cursed, and her first love returns to town. All of it leads her into the hands of a powerful witch.

Flair must face her fears and embrace her magical heritage to save those she loves from an unexpected threat. Playing the Witch Card” blends the charm of “Gilmore Girls” with the enchantment of “Practical Magic.” It’s a magical romp, perfect for September’s fantasy book releases, that serves up a delightful blend of romance, humor, and Halloween fun.

Goddess Crown by Shade Lapite

September 12, 2023

Raised in secret, hidden from the wealthy kingdom of Galla, Kalothia knows a simple and secluded life. But when assassins attack her, she must leave her forested sanctuary for the royal court’s subtle dangers and intrigue.

The royal court of Galla is a nest of poison, plots, and peril, overseen by an entrenched patriarchy. It’s a place filled with beauty and deadly power struggles, where Kalothia must learn to navigate. Guided by the Goddess, she becomes caught up in a world she never knew.

Romantic intrigue lurks around every corner, and choices loom large. Will Kalothia find her role in this new world? What happens when she must choose between her country and her heart?

“Goddess Crown” is a thrilling Afro-fantasy that introduces readers to the lush kingdom of Galla. With excitement, romance, and a charismatic heroine, this September 2023 fantasy book release shines brightly, offering an unforgettable adventure where love and loyalty are tested.

The Eternity Gates by Katherine Briggs

The Eternity Gate has been found, and the battle for its legends of treasure rages between kings and monsters. But Seyo, handmaiden to the princess, carries three heavy secrets that hold the fate of her people.

First, she’s gifted with fire, a blessing that feels more like a curse. Second, she translates a prophecy that reveals the gate’s true nature, not a treasure but a judgment. Third, she holds the gate’s ancient key, entrusted to her by Jorai, the scorned prince, who then vanishes.

With war on the horizon, Seyo embarks on a perilous journey with her companions to seek help and find Jorai, all while a trap lies in wait. Questions plague her mind: What should she do with the key? Can she survive the judgment? Will hiding or destroying the key save her people or doom them?

“The Eternity Gate” offers a thrilling tale of secrets, prophecy, and a quest that could change everything. This September, join Seyo in a gripping adventure where choices must be made, and destiny awaits.

Play of Shadows by Sebastien de Castell

September 14, 2023

Damelas Shademantaigne’s escape from a judicial duel lands him amid actors in the magnificent Operato Belleza. A temporary sanctuary turns perilous when he blurts out a truth: the city’s hero might be a traitor and murderer.

Now, with only a boisterous friend, a deadly assassin, and a band of misfit actors, he must uncover long-buried truths. The Iron Orchids are coming for his head, and the fearsome duellist, the Vixen, still waits to face him.

In “Play of Shadows,” the second new book from Sebastien de Castell this year, prepare for swordplay, magic, and intrigue. Dive into a swashbuckling fantasy filled with friendships stronger than iron and secrets deeper than betrayal. Will Damelas uncover the truth, or will the shadows play their final act?

Stolen From a Dream by Niranjan K

September 16, 2023

Pelthiel and Leithia live a life avoiding the gods, heeding their mother’s warnings, and hiding the secrets of their magic. But everything changes when they save a stranger from drowning, revealing their powers.

Meet Belthin, the chosen sacrifice of the Gods, no ordinary man but someone carrying a secret that could tear their world apart. Even worse, Pelthiel develops feelings for him, and now the city of Nagir and its warriors would kill anyone who shields him.

The Gods have seen them, and they’re coming.

In this self-published fantasy tale, a brother and sister must face cruel gods, dark secrets, and an unraveling world. Will they stand against the wrath of the Gods? Or will their world crumble under the weight of their truth? The battle has begun, and sometimes, even the Gods are powerless.

Starter Villain by John Scalzi

September 19, 2023

Charlie’s life is stagnant until he inherits his uncle Jake’s supervillain business, complete with an island volcano lair. Suddenly, the divorced substitute teacher’s dream of opening a pub is overshadowed by giant laser death rays and lava pits.

But it’s not all fun and villainy. Jake’s enemies are now targeting Charlie, and they’re not your old-fashioned villains. They’re rich, soulless predators backed by powerful corporations.

With unionized dolphins, talking spy cats, and a fearsome henchperson, Charlie must continue his uncle’s battle against a league of supervillains. In “Starter Villain” by John Scalzi, going bad starts to look appealing, and Charlie learns that in a dog-eat-dog world, it’s better to be a cat. A thrilling ride into the complex world of supervillainy, this story proves that inheriting evil might be more complicated—and more tempting—than one might think.

A Study in Drowning by Ava Reid

September 19, 2023

Effy Sayre, haunted by visions of the Fairy King, finds solace in the epic tale “Angharad” by Emrys Myrddin. When she joins a contest to design the late author’s house during her first term at Llyr’s prestigious architecture college, she feels she’s fulfilling her destiny.

Arriving at the crumbling Hiraeth Manor, Effy encounters Preston Héloury, a literature scholar set on proving Myrddin’s a fraud. Together, these two rivals delve into the author’s legacy, sifting through letters, books, and diaries.

But the manor’s decayed foundation isn’t the only unstable element they discover. Dark forces, both mortal and magical, conspire against them, and the truth they unravel may lead to their ruin.

“A Study in Drowning” by Ava Reid weaves a rich tapestry of mystery, magic, and the thin line between belief and deception, where a decaying estate and a beloved fairy tale hold the keys to a truth that could destroy everything.

Champion of Fate by Kendare Blake

September 19, 2023

Reed, an orphan taken in by the legendary order of mythical female warriors known as the Aristene, aspires to join their ranks. These Heromakers guide heroes to victory, yet remain hidden behind the scenes.

With just one challenge left, Reed must lead her first hero, Hestion, to glory on the battlefield. Victory means joining her sisters; failure leads to exile from the only home she’s ever had.

However, the fiery and infuriating Hestion becomes more than an ally to Reed. As they grow closer and the secrets of the Aristene order unravel, Reed faces a critical choice.

The battle approaches, and the stakes are high. Reed must decide between the order and the life she planned or the unexpected path with Hestion.

“Champion of Fate” by Kendare Blake explores the tension between duty and desire, tradition and love, and the hidden costs of a life dedicated to the glory of others.

Nightbreaker by Coco Ma

September 19, 2023

Fifteen years after The Vanishing plunged Manhattan into eternal darkness, the city’s inhabitants have adapted to a life filled with hidden dangers. Aboveground, they cling to their old ways, but below the streets lurks a nightmare no one dares to face—except for Rei Reynolds.

A student by day and a self-trained warrior by night, Rei dedicates her life to hunting Deathlings, the terrifying creatures haunting the city’s tunnels. Driven by vengeance for her parents’ brutal deaths, she dreams of becoming a Maverick, an elite Deathling-killer.

The Tournament offers Rei her shot at her dream, and she’s confident of victory. But her infuriating ex, Kieran Cross, also enters the competition, and as the battles escalate, so do the betrayals.

Rei’s trust is shattered, her alliances broken, and soon she becomes the target of both those in power and those seeking to overthrow it. In the midst of chaos, one thing becomes clear: Rei is in deep trouble.

Coco Ma’s “Nightbreaker” delivers a thrilling and chilling tale, filled with action, intrigue, and a snarky heroine fighting against the odds in a postapocalyptic Manhattan.

The Unfortunate Side Effects of Heartbreak and Magic by Breanne Randall

September 19, 2023

In the September 2023 fantasy book release, “The Unfortunate Side Effects of Heartbreak and Magic,” Breanne Randall weaves a heartwarming tale for fans of Practical Magic and Gilmore Girls.

Sadie Revelare’s life has been marked by the magical curse of four heartbreaks, a price she’s always been willing to pay. But when her beloved grandmother falls terminally ill, and Jake McNealy, her first heartbreak, returns to town after ten years, Sadie’s life starts to spiral.

The impending loss of her grandmother, who has been the family’s support for generations, shakes Sadie’s world. Her estranged twin brother Seth’s return and the family secrets he unveils further threaten her carefully built existence.

As Sadie grapples with rekindled feelings for Jake and the rapid decline of her grandmother, she faces the final heartbreak of her curse. With everything falling apart, she’s forced to question what truly matters: love or magic?

With a blend of enchantment and emotion akin to “The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake” and “The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches,” Randall’s debut novel explores the strength, vulnerability, and choices that define a magical life.

A Prayer for Vengeance by Leanne Schwartz

September 19, 2023

In the September 2023 fantasy book release, “A Prayer for Vengeance” by Leanne Schwartz, readers are introduced to a world entwined with miracles, curses, and revenge.

Centuries after a so-called miracle defeated the monsters of Tresttato and petrified the city’s soldiers, young Milo, an autistic temple ward, dutifully cares for the stone statues. Raised by devoted templars and scholars, Milo’s sole desire is to be accepted among them.

However, Milo’s innocent prayers accidentally awaken Gia, a cursed girl encased in stone. Driven by a desire for vengeance, Gia reveals a shocking truth: Primo Sanct Ennio, the holy leader Milo reveres, is the same man who betrayed her and cursed her into stone form. The miracle Milo believed in was nothing but a horrific curse, and Gia will stop at nothing to break it, even if it means killing Ennio’s followers or Milo himself.

“A Prayer for Vengeance” takes readers on a gripping journey filled with twists and moral dilemmas. Schwartz skillfully explores themes of faith, betrayal, and the pursuit of truth within the complexities of a warped religion. This tale of revenge and redemption offers a thrilling and thought-provoking experience.

The Fragile Threads of Power by VE Schwab

September 26, 2023

In the highly anticipated September 2023 fantasy book release, “The Fragile Threads of Power” by V.E. Schwab, readers are thrust back into the enthralling world of A Darker Shade of Magic. This time, perilous adventure and tangled schemes abound as new and familiar faces collide.

Once connected by London, four worlds pulsating with magic are now severed, their doors sealed to protect against the chaos of uncontrolled power. Only three Antari, wielders of immense magic, are known in recent memory. However, the appearance of a new Antari, Queen Kosika of White London, threatens to disrupt the delicate balance. Her rule is defined by bloodshed and fervent religious zeal, bringing danger to her realm.

Meanwhile, Red London faces its own turmoil as King Rhy Maresh contends with a growing rebellion determined to overthrow the throne and restore a balance of power.

At the center of these converging events is Tes, a girl with a unique magical ability. She stumbles upon a device that holds the potential to either unite the four worlds or unravel them completely.

“The Fragile Threads of Power” masterfully weaves a tale of intrigue, power, and destiny. Schwab’s return to this beloved universe offers both new twists and a revisiting of old friends, creating an exhilarating read that promises to captivate fans and newcomers alike.

The Hexologists by Josiah Bancroft

September 26, 2023

In the September 2023 fantasy book release, “The Hexologists” by Josiah Bancroft, readers are introduced to a new, enthralling series filled with magical mysteries and whimsical adventures.

The protagonists, Iz and Warren Wilby, also known as the Hexologists, are renowned for their abilities to solve peculiar cases using hexes and charmed relics. From recovering abducted children to confronting restless ghosts, the Wilbies have seen it all.

However, their latest case presents an extraordinary challenge. When the royal secretary requests their assistance in a bizarre situation involving the king pleading to be baked into a cake, the Wilbies find themselves unraveling a mystery that could destabilize the nation. Forty years of buried royal secrets, a violent anti-royalist gang, greedy ghouls, and alchemists drawing power from otherworldly dimensions are only a few of the strange elements they must navigate.

With a chalk stick capable of conjuring light and hope and a love toughened by their past, Iz and Warren Wilby prepare to tackle a case that will push their magical abilities to the limit.

Josiah Bancroft’s “The Hexologists” offers a wildly inventive and captivating journey into a world where the extraordinary is the norm. Filled with humor, imagination, and endless surprises, this book promises to be a must-read addition to the fantasy genre.

The Art of Destiny by Wesley Chu

September 26, 2023

In the highly-praised sequel to “The Art of Prophecy,” “The Art of Destiny” by Wesley Chu, the prophecy of a chosen one to defeat the Eternal Khan has been proven wrong. Jian, once believed to be that hero, now embarks on a new path, training in his family’s war art with the help of his grumpy grandmaster Taishi and a band of retired elders.

The story also follows characters like Qisami, an assassin finding friendship and purpose, and Sali, a would-be seeker of the next Eternal Khan who becomes a revolutionary leader. Together, they all discover that destiny is something grander and more personal than any prophecy can predict. A stirring continuation of the War Arts Saga, “The Art of Destiny” explores themes of self-determination, friendship, and the power of choice.

Cage of Dreams by Rebecca Schaeffer

September 26, 2023

In the gripping conclusion to the City of Nightmares duology, “Cage of Dreams” by Rebecca Schaeffer, the story takes a dark and twisted turn. Nineteen-year-old Ness, once terrified of Nightmares, finds herself entangled with the Nightmare Phantom. She agrees to a Faustian bargain, asking to be turned into a bulletproof Nightmare of her choosing. However, a failed assassination attempt causes chaos in the City of Newham, and the deal goes awry.

Facing enemies both old and new, Ness must confront not only her fears but her very sense of self. With themes of mortality, fear, and inner strength, “Cage of Dreams” offers an intense and thrilling end to the series. It stands out as one of the September 2023 fantasy book releases that fans of the genre will surely anticipate.

Sun of Blood and Ruin by Mariely Lares

September 28, 2023

In “Sun of Blood and Ruin” by Mariely Lares, the first book in the Sun of Blood and Ruin series, readers are transported to sixteenth-century New Spain for a reimagining of Zorro with a magical twist. The story introduces Leonora de Las Casas Tlazohtzin, a noble lady promised to the Spanish throne’s heir, who leads a secret life as Pantera, a warrior sorceress fighting against Spanish rule.

Combining Mesoamerican mythology, Mexican history, and thrilling swordplay, this debut historical fantasy novel tells a tale of magic, treachery, and romance. Leonora’s dual life becomes more complicated when a prophecy of destruction surfaces, forcing her to decide between surrendering the mask or fighting to the death.

As she uncovers the truth of her origins, her destiny becomes clear, and she must embrace her role as a legendary hero. A rich blend of historical context and fantastical elements, “Sun of Blood and Ruin” is a highly anticipated addition to the September 2023 fantasy book releases.