10 Multicultural Fantasy Books
Fantasy worlds thrive on creativity, and when infused with multicultural influences, they become richer, more enchanting, and beautifully layered. These tales traverse continents, folklore, and mythologies, offering narratives that are as diverse as they are spellbinding. Here are ten multicultural fantasy books that transport readers to vibrant realms filled with epic magic, fierce heroes, and captivating cultural traditions.
1. The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang
🀄 A dark, epic tale rooted in Chinese history and mythology.
Rin was an orphan raised in a war-torn corner of the empire, but her journey to the prestigious Sinegard Academy is nothing short of transformative. Amidst the intensity of training, war, and an ancient magic born from the gods themselves, Rin will have to confront her darkest impulses to wield this power.
💭 Why it’s unforgettable: The weight of history and tradition merges with brutal warfare and sorcery. Kuang’s writing immerses you in a fantastical China-inspired world where power is both a gift and a curse. It’s brutal, intense, and deeply moving, with a protagonist you can’t help but root for.
2. Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi
🔥 A West African-inspired world on the brink of revolution.
Zélie Adebola is determined to restore magic to the land of Orïsha, where it was stolen by the oppressive king. Armed with the remnants of a lost power and a mission that could change the fate of her people, Zélie fights alongside her friends in a battle that’s as much about revolution as it is about reclaiming identity.
💭 Why it’s compelling: Adeyemi beautifully blends Yoruba mythology and real-world struggles into a stunning narrative about family, legacy, and revolution. The high stakes and sizzling romance between Zélie and her enemies-turned-allies only add to the tension.
3. The City We Became by N.K. Jemisin
🌆 A battle between magical cities, with a dash of social commentary.
Jemisin’s novel takes us through the streets of New York City, where the boroughs have come to life as avatars of their own—each infused with the spirit of their neighborhood. As a force of darkness threatens the city, five chosen avatars must come together to fight for survival.
💭 Why it’s unforgettable: The vibrancy of New York is alive in this urban fantasy, where culture, race, and identity are at the forefront of the battle. Jemisin’s brilliant exploration of both magic and societal issues feels like a love letter to the city while also making a powerful commentary on the struggles of multiculturalism.
4. The Gilded Wolves by Roshani Chokshi
🗝️ A high-stakes heist set in a 19th-century Paris, full of intrigue and magic.
Set in an alternate version of Paris, where magic is infused in every aspect of society, a team of unlikely allies led by Séverin Montagnet-Alarie must pull off a dangerous heist. Each member brings their own unique cultural perspective and set of magical abilities to the mission.
💭 Why it’s captivating: Chokshi’s lush world-building is as decadent as Paris itself, with each character’s backstory offering depth and heart. The romance and friendships in this novel shine just as brightly as the magical heist that drives the plot. It’s a perfect blend of intrigue, romance, and cultural diversity.
5. The Inheritance Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin
💥 Divine warfare, political intrigue, and romance in a world of gods and mortals.
In this series, the gods walk among humans, but their power struggles threaten the balance of the world. In the midst of a war between gods and mortals, Yeine Darr is thrust into a deadly game of politics and divine warfare. As she uncovers family secrets, she must navigate love, power, and betrayal.
💭 Why it’s mesmerizing: Jemisin’s exploration of power, loyalty, and betrayal is wrapped in a world where gods, magic, and human desires collide. It’s both grand in scope and deeply personal, with a lush, immersive setting and characters that make the stakes feel monumental.
6. The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea by Axie Oh
🌊 A Korean-inspired fantasy filled with gods, sea creatures, and love.
When her brother’s life is sacrificed to the sea god, Mina plunges into the ocean to save him. Instead of dying, she finds herself in the realm of the Sea God, surrounded by strange creatures and ancient magic. Mina must navigate this world and figure out her place in it—all while discovering her heart’s desires.
💭 Why you’ll adore it: Oh’s writing sweeps you away into an enchanting Korean-inspired world where magic is in every wave. The romance is tender yet intense, and Mina’s journey of self-discovery is relatable. Plus, the mythology that shapes the story is richly woven into the narrative.
7. The Bone Shard Daughter by Andrea Stewart
⚡ A fantasy world of intrigue, rebellion, and bone-shard magic.
Lin, the daughter of the Emperor, embarks on a journey to master the magic of bone-shards and secure her place as heir. Along the way, she uncovers dark secrets about her family and the empire they control, leading her to question everything. The story is set in a world influenced by Southeast Asian traditions.
💭 Why it’s memorable: Stewart’s complex world-building, combined with Lin’s inner struggle to break free from a legacy of control and manipulation, creates a compelling fantasy. The magic system is as unique as the world itself, making this a captivating read.
8. The Water Knife by Paolo Bacigalupi
💧 A dystopian future where water is the most valuable commodity.
While not a typical fantasy, this novel presents a fascinating speculative world shaped by environmental destruction and the battle for water rights. With influences from Southwest U.S. culture, Bacigalupi blends dystopia and magical realism to tell a story of survival, conflict, and resource scarcity.
💭 Why it’s gripping: The intricate way Bacigalupi combines environmentalism, class struggles, and cultural conflict makes for a thought-provoking read. It feels grounded yet imaginative, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
9. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
- Patrick Rothfuss
- Nick Podehl
- Brilliance Audio
🎶 A young man’s quest for knowledge, revenge, and love in a world full of magic.
Kvothe, an infamous wizard, recounts the tale of his life, starting from his humble beginnings as an orphan to his rise as a legendary figure. Set in a world inspired by European and Middle Eastern cultures, his story is a testament to the power of knowledge, love, and sacrifice.
💭 Why it’s iconic: Rothfuss’s storytelling is poetic, and the rich tapestry of cultures within his world make it feel lived-in and dynamic. The romance is slow-burning and emotional, and Kvothe’s journey is unforgettable.
10. Black Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse
🌑 A fantasy epic inspired by the pre-Columbian Americas, with gods, prophecy, and intrigue.
Black Sun is a tale of magic, prophecy, and celestial intrigue set in a world inspired by the indigenous cultures of the Americas. With a solar eclipse that marks the rise of a new era, the lives of gods, mortals, and everything in between collide as the fate of the world hangs in balance.
💭 Why you’ll be hooked: Roanhorse’s world-building is intricate, beautifully diverse, and full of tension. The romance and character dynamics are deep, and the stakes could not be higher.
Which Multicultural Fantasy Will You Explore Next?
From gods and empires to magic and rebellion, these multicultural fantasy novels transport us to worlds brimming with adventure, romance, and rich histories. Which one is your favorite? Do you have any multicultural fantasy gems to recommend? Share your thoughts—let’s swap stories from every corner of the magical world! ✨
