Three remarkable debut fantasy novels have arrived, each offering a unique and immersive escape into worlds of magic, peril, and profound character journeys. From the intricate politics of a fading dynasty to the raw terror of a monster-filled apocalypse and the deep folk magic of Cornwall, these titles are set to captivate readers.
The Poet Empress: A Debut of Calm Authority
Shen Tao's "The Poet Empress" (Gollancz, £20, 400pp) introduces readers to the beleaguered Azalea Dynasty. Its magic is dwindling, famine wreaks havoc across the realm, and external threats loom at its borders. Into this volatile court arrives Wei Yin, a farmer's daughter whose betrothal to the sadistic emperor is nothing short of a cruel jest.
Her challenge is both impossible and vicious: to secure her survival, she must compose a perfect poem. The devastating catch is that Wei Yin is illiterate. Critics are hailing this debut for its calmly authoritative tone and finely judged narrative. It combines gorgeous settings, outstanding characterisation, and tremendous narrative drive, marking it as a fantasy novel in a class of its own.
We Call Them Witches: Dystopian Horror with Heart
In India Rose-Bower's "We Call Them Witches" (Michael Joseph, £18.99, 304pp), the world has ended, but in a uniquely terrifying way. Sara and her family are barricaded in a rural retreat, besieged by monstrous hybrids of earth, plants, and reanimated dead things, held back only by wards and potions.
The fragile peace shatters when a mysterious girl arrives. Sara falls deeply in love, her brother vanishes without a trace, and she is left to untangle a massive, dangerous mess. This is a beautifully told story that supercharges its dystopian apocalypse and in-your-face horror with the intense stabs of adolescent angst.
The Salt Bind: A Lyrical Foray into Cornish Witchery
Rebecca Ferrier's "The Salt Bind" (Renegade, £16.99, 400pp) is a poetically charged exploration of folk magic and village life. The story follows Kensa, chosen as a girl to apprentice under the village Wise Woman. Her future promises respect but also profound loneliness; the villagers depend on her gifts yet shun her for them.
Just as the novel's language surges with lyrical exuberance, Kensa is fiercely determined to live life on her own terms. However, she must contend with the deep, ancient magic of the sea and land, where every power gained comes with a significant price. This is a hugely successful debut that immerses readers in a world of Cornish witchery.
Where to Find These Captivating Reads
All three of these compelling fantasy novels are available for purchase now. For readers looking to dive into these richly imagined worlds, "The Poet Empress," "We Call Them Witches," and "The Salt Bind" can be found through the Mail Bookshop and other major retailers. Each represents the vibrant and evolving landscape of British fantasy fiction, offering perfect entry points for new readers and seasoned fans alike.
