Recently, I've been reading books with common names or a variation of words that're well known. I want to read books with really unique names, where the author didn't derive from anything existing, and really just invented a word as a name
I like fantasy, sci-fi, mystery in adult category
by hbe_bme
5 Comments
The Lord of the Rings! Or basically anything written by Tolkien.
[Pale Grey Dot](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/200356308-pale-grey-dot) – Sci-fi with spies, cybernetics, and incredible character dynamics.
[Sisters of Jade](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60188679-sisters-of-jade) – Badass pirate ladies go on an adventure.
>where the author didn’t derive from anything existing
* The Imperial Radch series by Ann Leckie? If the names were based on anything, it’s nothing I am familiar with. My personal favourite is Provenance, which works as a stand alone so you could start there if you wish.
* The Culture series by Iain M. Banks. Every name is so creative and unusual. My personal favourite is Excession, but it’s kind of hard to get into that one. I recommend starting with The Player of Games.
* My favourite names of all come from The Snow Queen trilogy, but they are based on mythological figures. Lesser known figures such as Ilmarinen and Väinämöinen, though!
Okay disclaimer, I haven’t read the books OR seen much of the show, but I’ve always loved the naming conventions for the different cultures in Game of Thrones. Maybe this is a bad suggestion considering the infamous wait for the final book lol.
If you’re looking for a book with truly unique names that feel like they were invented from scratch, *Nihilium* by Calliope Seraphine might be a great pick. The characters in *Nihilium* have names that evoke a sense of mystery and otherworldliness, adding to the surreal atmosphere of the story. Names like *Tacenda* and *Siinay* carry a weight that feels completely original, and they’re the kind of names that feel almost musical to say aloud.
The book itself leans into fantasy and mystery, with a psychological edge, and the unique names enhance the feeling that you’re stepping into a world unlike any you’ve read before. If you enjoy uttering names that feel fresh and enigmatic, *Nihilium* is definitely worth checking out!