The Blue Sword
Harry Crewe, a young woman displaced to a remote desert frontier, finds herself drawn into the magical world of the Hillfolk. A languid, traditional chosen-one fantasy whose unremarkable plot is more than redeemed by the quiet strength, dignity, and wonderfully nuanced characterization of its heroine.
Regenesis
Four loosely connected novellas follow a misanthropic ecological scientist working to preserve animal life across the galaxy. Rich in real science, surprising emotion, and occasional delightful weirdness, Regenesis left me wishing there were more.
The Light in Exile
An agrarian colony, a mysterious agent, and an ancient alien race consumed by loss. A beautifully crafted, character-driven science fiction novel that balances cosmic stakes with intimate, believable lives—despite some languid pacing.
An Alien Light
A fascinating, deeply human science fiction novel about violence, relationships, and the contradictions of human nature. Its unusual premise and richly developed characters made it one of my favorite ForFemFan discoveries.
Islands
In a world of immortals, Tia Hamley is the one woman who will grow old and die. A beautifully written, deeply human exploration of mortality, identity, and connection, somewhat undermined by its metaphysical ending.
The Gate of Ivory
A pragmatic young woman stranded on a magical planet finds friendship, intrigue, and a wonderfully unconventional family. Clever, funny, deeply human, and an absolute delight from beginning to end.
Madbond
An amnesiac hunter, a carnivorous horse, six intertwined tribes, and a bromance that goes from zero to eternal devotion. A slow start gives way to fascinating mythology and excellent storytelling.
The Trees of Zharka
A world in perpetual penance, 79 sacred trees, and a young priest questioning everything he's been taught. A surprisingly nuanced, thoughtful, and optimistic little science-fiction novel.
The Seventh Gate
The breathtaking conclusion to Seven Citadels left me sobbing at one in the morning. A remarkable story of complicated friendships, physical beauty, and the painful, wonderful realities of being human.
The Many-Colored Land
A one-way ticket six million years into Earth's past, a cast of misfits, and the delicious terror of the unknown. A sprawling science-fantasy epic that initially blew me away.
Children of the Wind
The second Seven Citadels adventure deepens its wonderfully human characters, explores faith and philosophy without preaching, and introduces an argumentative companion and a delightful cat.