A wonderful collection of sci-fi and fantasy novels for AAPI Heritage month.
Road to Ruin
by Hana Lee
S&S/Saga Press, 368 pages, $18.99
In Hana Lee’s debut fantasy, Jin-Lu, a daring magebike courier, embarks on a perilous journey across a ravaged wasteland to deliver love letters from a prince to Princess Yi-Nereen. As they flee Yi-Nereen’s abusive family and relentless pursuers, including her father and betrothed, they confront storms, marauders, and dark secrets about the heritability of magic. Jin’s loyalty is torn between her affection for both the prince and the princess, risking everything for love and freedom in a world on the brink of chaos. Lee’s gripping narrative blends action, romance, and intrigue, captivating readers with its high-speed chase and electrifying magic. With danger lurking at every turn, Jin’s courage and determination shine as she faces the ultimate test of her heart and her will to survive.
Your Utopia
by Bora Chung
Algonquin Books, 256 pages, $18.99
"Your Utopia" by Bora Chung invites readers into a futuristic world where virtual reality
technology allows individuals to construct their own ideal societies. Protagonist Yumi embarks on a journey within this virtual realm, seeking fulfillment and happiness. As she immerses herself in the possibilities of this utopian landscape, Yumi confronts profound questions about identity, autonomy, and the nature of contentment. Chung's novel serves as a thought-
provoking exploration of human desires and the consequences of chasing perfection in an
imperfect world. Through Yumi's experiences, readers are challenged to reflect on the complexities of the human condition and the eternal quest for fulfillment. "Your Utopia" offers a compelling narrative that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy, inviting readers to ponder
the boundaries of technology and the essence of true happiness.
Paper Dragons
by Siobhan McDermott
Random House Children’s Books, 384 press, $18.99
In the thrilling debut of a new magical series, 12-year-old orphan Yeung Zhi Ging seizes a
chance to escape her village by winning an invitation to apprentice with immortals. Facing trials and sabotage from rivals, Zhi Ging must prove her worth amidst rumors of an evil spirit's return. As her powers grow, she confronts the Fui Gwai's attack on the Silhouettes, testing her
newfound talents to save her friends and the world. With echoes of "Amari and the Night Brothers" and "Eragon," this enchanting tale promises an immersive journey into a luminous new world destined to captivate readers. Praise from Jessica Townsend heralds it as a soaring adventure that will leave readers eager for more.
To Gaze Upon Wicked Gods
by Molly X Chang
Random House Worlds, 368 pages, $30
In a world dominated by technologically superior invaders, Ruying wields the power over death. When an enemy prince offers her a risky bargain—become his assassin to safeguard her family's well-being—she faces a dilemma. Utilizing her abilities will cost her precious years of life. Unsure whether to trust the prince's promises of a brighter future or to safeguard her
people, Ruying must tread carefully. Will she sacrifice her own longevity for the sake of her
loved ones, or will she risk betraying her nation by allying with the very enemy who offers protection? As she grapples with this moral quandary, the fate of her world hangs in the balance, teetering on the edge between war and peace.
Daughter of Calamity
by Rosalie M Lin
St. Martin’s Press, 352 pages, $29
In the glitzy world of Shanghai's Paramount club, Jingwen is a showgirl by night and a courier for her grandmother's gang by day. But when cabaret dancers start losing their faces to an unknown assailant, Jingwen realizes she could be next. As stolen faces appear on wealthy foreigners, she uncovers the sinister truth beneath Shanghai's dazzling facade. To protect herself and her fellow dancers, Jingwen dives into the city's underworld, facing dangerous
gangsters and intricate alliances. In a realm where gods' power is traded like currency, Jingwen must navigate treacherous streets and deadly deals to survive. As tensions rise and ancient grudges surface, Jingwen realizes she must embrace her own strength and cunning to protect Shanghai from those who would sell its very essence.