14 books with characters fighting against fate
When destiny threatens to bind, rebellion lights the way
Fate is a relentless force — weaving webs of prophecy, expectation, and inevitability. Yet some souls rise with fierce defiance, battling the invisible chains that would shackle their futures. These 14 stories unravel the powerful journeys of characters who dare to stand tall, challenging destiny’s grip with courage, heart, and unyielding will. Step into worlds where fate is not accepted, but fought — and where every choice is a spark against the looming shadows.
1. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Celia and Marco are bound by a mystical competition decreed by forces beyond their control. But their love and determination push them to rewrite the rules and fight the fate imposed on them.
When magic binds, love rebels.
2. Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson
Vin rises from the ashes of oppression, destined to fulfill or doom a prophecy. With every stolen breath and whispered plan, she challenges the very fate that sought to erase her.
In a world ruled by fate, rebellion is the ultimate power.
3. Graceling by Kristin Cashore
Katsa’s rare gift brands her as a tool for others’ ambitions. But she fights to reclaim her identity and shape her own destiny, refusing to be the weapon fate designed.
Strength is born in the refusal to be controlled.
4. The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
Eons-old prophecies threaten the world’s doom, but diverse heroes rise to challenge what the past has decreed, forging alliances in defiance of fate’s cruel designs.
Unity is the sword that cuts through prophecy.
5. Uprooted by Naomi Novik
Agnes is chosen by the mysterious Dragon, bound by ancient rituals. But her fierce spirit transforms fate, bending ancient magic to her will.
When tradition tightens its grip, courage breaks the chain.
6. The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden
Vasya confronts ancient spirits and harsh prophecies, fighting to protect her home and family from fate’s chilling grasp.
In winter’s darkest hour, a single flame can defy destiny.
7. Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo
Alina’s destiny as the Sun Summoner promises salvation — or destruction. But her journey is one of resistance, twisting fate with every bold step.
Light doesn’t always follow the script.
8. Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard
Mare Barrow challenges the rigid caste of blood and prophecy, sparking rebellion with every choice to fight against the fate assigned to her.
Revolution is the voice of those denied their destiny.
9. Scythe by Neal Shusterman
In a world where death is controlled, two young apprentices battle the roles fate has given them, questioning the morality of their path and fighting for freedom.
Even in a world of order, chaos can break through.
10. The Queen’s Rising by Rebecca Ross
Cal’s fate is sealed by lineage, but her dreams and defiance push her to forge a path beyond royal expectation and ancient prophecy.
Destiny bows to the will of those brave enough to seize it.
11. Daughter of Smoke & Bone by Laini Taylor
Karou’s fate is tangled in angelic wars and ancient promises, yet her fierce heart fights to break free and choose love over destiny.
Between heaven and hell, her spirit soars untethered.
12. The Gilded Wolves by Roshani Chokshi
A crew bound by secrets and ancient curses fights to break cycles written long ago, proving that fate can be rewritten by those bold enough to try.
History is a story—one that can be retold.
13. Seraphina by Rachel Hartman
Bound between dragon and human worlds, Seraphina challenges her predestined role, forging peace and identity on her own daring terms.
Harmony blooms where fate would divide.
14. An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
Laia and Elias reject the brutal fates set by tyranny, sparking a rebellion that shatters chains and rewrites history.
When darkness threatens, defiance becomes the light.
The Battle for Destiny
In every tale, these heroes remind us that fate is not a sentence but a challenge. Their journeys spark the timeless truth: even when destiny’s threads seem unbreakable, the fire of choice, will, and courage can reshape the tapestry of life itself.
So, if you believe in rewriting your story and breaking free from the chains that bind—these 14 books will light your path and ignite your spirit.
