Maybe what I'm looking for is fantasy, magical realism type of stuff. But no magic wizards or evil kings, I'm tired of that stuff.
It's really hard to find something unique with a writing style I like these days 🤔 basically I'm not a real fan of those 'artsy' writing styles where the dialogue is very unrealistic and the author runs away with the descriptions, and every time I find something 'unique' it's written in that way. (An example of this would be Little, Big or a Fine and Private Place)
It would be nice just to find a good story focused on the plot and the characters , and less trying to sound like a really long poem. If anyone can suggest something I'd really appreciate it!
by Seamaid_starfish
5 Comments
Middlegame by Seanan McGuire. It was so good. Based off of your post I have a feeling you would enjoy it.
Maybe try his dark materials?
The Infinite Future was one of the most weird and unique books I’ve ever read. I couldn’t even explain it to people who asked about it.
I recommend all the time nowadays (a positive thing) but I think it does fit what you’re looking for.
Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir (sci-fi fantasy with necromancers, a deadly competition, people dying off mysteriously at said competition, lesbians, flirty banter, reanimation, space, spaceships, swords and a lot more. I have to say the books get stranger as they go on but in an intriguing way that all comes together eventually)
Additionally:
Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones (it’s from a few decades ago but I think the writing and take on fairytales and romance (there is a romantic subplot but it doesn’t take over) is still pretty fresh even nowadays.
The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater (realistic setting with fantasy elements that slowly take over, with a found family trope and a very interesting take on magic, dreams, and quests. The writing is poetic at times but I don’t think that detracts from the author making the descriptions keep up with the plot.)
These are three of my favorite books/series, and while I recommend all of them a lot it is always wholeheartedly. Perhaps there are other people who can suggest more “classic” or “mature” books but hopefully you’re willing to at least give my recs a shot! (No offense taken if you’re not interested in them though)
I really love River of Teeth by Sarah Gailey – tbh, I’ve loved the rest of her writing as well. It’s about an alternate timeline where America managed to domesticate hippos and use them like horses.
Second the Middlegame rec. Into the Drowning Deep is by the same author under the pen name Mira Grant and it’s great. It’s a horror/spec fic look into what mermaids would be like if they were real.
Also really recommend Whichwood by Tahereh Mafi. It’s the 2nd book in a YA series, but you don’t really need the context of the 1st book. The language is so beautiful, the MC is amazing, and something about it is so adventurous and dreamlike.