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Addicting, intense, and packed with tough choices - An Ember in the Ashes is a standout YA fantasy perfect for fans of action and emotional journeys, though the violence and tropes may not suit every reader.

If you liked An Ember in the Ashes, here are the top 100 books to read next:

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Showing 1 - 10 of 100 
  1. #1
    Graceling
    Book 1 in the series:Graceling Realm

    Graceling - Graceling Realm by Kristin Cashore
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    A must-read for fans of strong heroines, classic fantasy, and smart adventure - just don’t expect a swoony love story or non-stop action. If you love seeing girls kick butt and challenge the rules, grab it!

    In the book 'Graceling' by Kristin Cashore, readers are introduced to a world where people known as gracelings possess extraordinary abilities such as mind reading and exceptional fighting skills. The story follows the protagonist Katsa, a skilled killer graced with fighting abilities who struggles with her own inner turmoil and questions her place in the world. When Katsa meets Prince Po, another graceling with unique powers, they embark on a quest to uncover the mystery surrounding King Leck, leading to unexpected plot twists and revelations that challenge their beliefs and abilities. The book features a blend of action, adventure, romance, and well-developed characters set against a backdrop of seven kingdoms and a compelling narrative style that keeps readers engaged.

    IN THESE DUNGEONS the darkness was complete, but Katsa had a map in her mind. One that had so far proven correct, as Oll's maps tended to do. Katsa ran her hand along the cold walls and counted doors...
    2008
    489 pages

  2. #2

    The Cruel Prince - The Folk of the Air by Holly Black
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    A deliciously dark, unpredictable fae fantasy that's all about power, betrayal, and ambition - plus a dash of angsty romance. Worth picking up if you love morally complicated heroes and high-stakes intrigue!

    In 'The Cruel Prince' by Holly Black, the story follows Jude and her sisters who are taken to Faerie after witnessing their parents' murder. Set in a world of magic and intrigue, Jude navigates the dangerous court as she strives for power and a place among the faerie lords and ladies. With twists and turns, the book keeps readers engaged with its lush descriptions and complex characters.

    The book is a dark fantasy tale filled with revenge, drama, courtly intrigue, and magic. Readers are introduced to a world where danger and betrayal lurk around every corner, as Jude faces challenges and choices that will impact not only her family but the entire kingdom of Faerie.

    “The tournament is still four nights away,” the creature says. Her name is Tatterfell, and she’s a servant in Madoc’s household, stuck here until she works off her debt to him. She’s cared for me sinc...
    January 2018
    413 pages

  3. #3
    Shadow and Bone
    Book 1 in the series:Shadow and Bone

    Shadow and Bone - Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo
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    A fun, cinematic fantasy full of magic, dark secrets, and high stakes - a strong start if you’re after escapism and addictive adventure, but won’t be for everyone.

    In "Shadow and Bone" by Leigh Bardugo, readers are introduced to Alina Starkov and her best friend Mal, who are orphaned and drafted into the army. When Alina discovers she has a special gift marking her as a Grisha, she is sent to be groomed by the Darkling, the leader of an elite security branch. As Alina's powers awaken, she finds herself entangled in danger and intrigue, pining for her lost friend Mal. The story follows Alina's journey as she navigates a world filled with magic, betrayal, and romance, set in a fantasyland based on Russia, with a touch of forbidden love and self-discovery.

    STANDING ON THE EDGE of a crowded road, I looked down onto the rolling fields and abandoned farms of the Tula Valley and got my first glimpse of the Shadow Fold. My regiment was two weeks’ march from...
    June 2012
    375 pages

  4. #4

    The Winner's Curse - The Winner's Trilogy by Marie Rutkoski
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    A gorgeously written, slow-burn YA fantasy with brains, political intrigue, and a refreshingly strategic heroine - perfect for fans of smart, character-driven stories and not your average YA romance.

    The Winner's Curse by Marie Rutkoski is a novel set in an alternate world where the Valorians have conquered and enslaved the Herrani. The story revolves around Kestrel, the Valorians general's daughter, and her slave, Arin, as they navigate a growing bond amidst secrets and betrayal. The plot centers around a secret plan and uprising of slaves, with elements of politics, intrigue, and secrets intertwined with a slow-burning development and lush depictions of society life and the harsh realities of slavery.

    “Stay,” said another, but Kestrel cinched her wrist-strap velvet purse shut. The sun had lowered, and caramelized the color of things, which meant that she had played cards long enough to be noticed b...
    2014
    373 pages

  5. #5

    The City of Brass - The Daevabad Trilogy by S.A. Chakraborty
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    An atmospheric and richly crafted fantasy with deep lore, complex characters, and high stakes. It takes patience, but rewards readers who love immersive worlds and nuanced, unpredictable stories.

    The City of Brass is a fantasy novel set in a world of Devas and Djinn, following the journey of Nahri, a young girl with mysterious powers, as she navigates through complex politics, magic, and society. The plot unfolds in a Middle Eastern-inspired setting, where Nahri discovers her heritage and connection to the magical beings, while facing challenges of power, intrigue, and romance in a richly detailed world filled with historical and supernatural elements.

    Nahri smiled behind her veil, watching the two men bicker as they approached her stall. The younger one glanced anxiously down the alley while the older man—her client—sweated in the cool dawn air. Sa...
    November 2017
    562 pages

  6. #6
    Throne of Glass
    Book 1 in the series:Throne of Glass

    Throne of Glass - Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
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    A fun, witty, fantasy adventure with a memorable heroine - great if you enjoy YA, but not for those looking for ultra-gritty realism or minimal romance. Worth a try for snarky banter, epic competitions, and plenty of intrigue!

    In "Throne of Glass" by Sarah J. Maas, readers are introduced to Celaena Sardothian, a skilled assassin who is given the opportunity to compete in a tournament to become the King's Champion and gain her freedom. The book follows Celaena's journey as she navigates the challenges of the competition, forms unexpected friendships, and uncovers mysterious murders that threaten her life. The writing style is described as vivid, well-written, and engaging, with a mix of action-packed scenes, intriguing characters, and a compelling murder mystery that keeps readers craving for more.

    After a year of slavery in the Salt Mines of Endovier, Celaena Sardothien was accustomed to being escorted everywhere in shackles and at sword-point. Most of the thousands of slaves in Endovier receiv...
    August 2012
    436 pages

  7. #7
    Red Queen
    Book 1 in the series:Red Queen

    Red Queen - Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard
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    A fun, trope-filled YA dystopian with lots of drama - great for action lovers and fans of soapy royal intrigue, but may feel derivative if you're craving something super original.

    In a world divided by blood, where those with red blood serve the silver-blooded elite, Mare Barrow, a red-blooded girl from the poverty-stricken Stilts, discovers she possesses the powers of a silver-blood. Forced to play the role of a lost silver princess, Mare navigates power dynamics and a growing rebellion, all while uncovering hidden truths and facing tough choices amidst a dangerous conflict between Reds and Silvers.

    The plot of "Red Queen" follows Mare's journey as she becomes entwined in a complex web of relationships, betrayals, and power struggles within a society where blood defines one's fate. The book combines elements of fantasy and dystopian fiction, offering a mix of intrigue, action, and unexpected twists that keep readers engaged from start to finish.

    I hate First Friday. It makes the village crowded, and now, in the heat of high summer, that’s the last thing anyone wants. From my place in the shade it isn’t so bad, but the stink of bodies, all swe...
    February 2015
    404 pages

  8. #8
    Six of Crows
    Book 1 in the series:Six of Crows

    Six of Crows - Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
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    A wildly entertaining, twisty heist with unforgettable characters - definitely worth the hype, especially for fans of YA fantasy and ensemble casts! Just be warned: you might immediately want to grab the sequel.

    'Six of Crows' by Leigh Bardugo is a gripping YA heist novel set in a fantasy world where a mastermind, Kaz Brekker, assembles a team of teenagers with special gifts and dark pasts to undertake an impossible mission in the dangerous city of Ketterdam. The story revolves around their quest to kidnap a scientist experimenting with enhancing special powers for military purposes, leading to a tale of revenge, loyalty, friendship, and intricate schemes against a backdrop of a richly imagined world filled with magic and complex characters.

    The book is a heist thriller with a fantasy twist, featuring a group of misfits led by Kaz who navigate through a city controlled by gangs and a corrupt council. The narrative is driven by detailed schemes, plot twists, and the individual growth of the characters, as they face challenges, form relationships, and strive to achieve their goals in a world on the brink of change and chaos.

    He was supposed to be making his rounds at the Hoede house, but for the last fifteen minutes, he’d been hovering around the southeast wall of the gardens, trying to think of something clever and roman...
    September 2015
    497 pages

  9. #9

    Daughter of Smoke and Bone - Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor
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    A gorgeously written, darkly whimsical fantasy packed with magic, mystery, and romance - an absolute must-read for fans of unique worlds and lyrical storytelling, but best for those who enjoy their fantasy with a generous dose of star-crossed love.

    Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor is a captivating tale of forbidden love, dark magic, and mythical creatures. The story follows Karou, a girl leading a double life, who embarks on a quest to uncover the mysteries of her own origins while being drawn into an ancient war between Seraphim and Chimaera. The novel intricately weaves together different timelines and viewpoints, revealing a world filled with fantastical elements and complex characters. The writing style is described as poetic, imaginative, and rich in detail, creating a vivid and immersive reading experience.

    Walking to school over the snow-muffled cobbles, Karou had no sinister premonitions about the day. It seemed like just another Monday, innocent but for its essential Mondayness, not to mention its Jan...
    2011
    477 pages

  10. #10
    Caraval
    Book 1 in the series:Caraval

    Caraval - Caraval by Stephanie Garber
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    A dazzling, romantic fairy tale brimming with magic, but its flowery style and dramatic twists aren’t for everyone. Perfect for fans of whimsical, heart-driven fantasy - just don’t expect every trick to land for you.

    Caraval by Stephanie Garber is a magical and mysterious tale following two sisters, Scarlett and Tella, as they escape their father to participate in the magical game of Caraval. The story is filled with twists and turns, secrets, and a dark and enchanting world that keeps readers guessing until the very end. The writing style is described as young adult, with detailed descriptions that transport readers to the streets of Caraval alongside the characters.

    She read the letter again. Then again. And again. Her eyes took in each sharp stroke of ink, every waxy curve of the Caraval master’s silver crest—a sun with a star inside and a teardrop inside of the...
    2016
    447 pages

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