Hello! I am looking for fantasy novels that:
1. Have unique fantastical (or magic realism) elements. Doesn’t even have to be fantastical – historical fiction is fine too.
2. Are plot driven (or at least have an overarching plot, not a collection of short stories). I am hungry for a good story (bonus points if it’s something I would want to go to AO3 for later… you know what I mean)
3. Integrate sociocultural elements, reflect sociopolitical events, or allow me to learn something new of a culture
I do not want: sci-fi (sorry!), high fantasy, YA-ish books
Bonus points if it makes me feel absurd or surreal, or it’s what you would call “beautifully written”. Emotional rollercoaster.
Some of the books I’ve read:
I liked – A School for Fools, One Hundred Years of Solitude, Petrov’s Flu, Good Omens, LOTR, My Brilliant Friend, Crystal Boys, Primeval and Other Times, American Gods, Invisible Cities, Farewell My Concubine
I didn’t enjoy – Poppy War (love the premise but it’s too YA for me. Actually I’ve just returned this book and this was the reason I decided to make this post. Books like Poppy War but less YA…!); Mistborn (just not a fan of his writing style); Dune (also not a fan of writing style).
Please and thank you!!!!
by mapo_tofu_lover