13 new fantasy and science fiction books to read in May 2023

OF LIGHT AND SHADOW by Tanaz Bhathena — May 23

If you like a bit more romance in your fantasy, Of Light and Shadow by Tanaz Bhathena might be for you. Drawing inspiration from Indian mythology, Bhathena’s latest novel is a standalone fantasy about a bandit leader and a prince who become caught up in schemes to reorient the political landscape of their country.

Roshan Chaya is out for justice. Abandoned by her parents at birth and adopted by the kingdom of Jwala’s most notorious bandit before his brutal murder, she is now leader of the Shadow Clan, a gang of farmers-turned-bandits impoverished by the provincial governor’s atrocities and corruption. Roshan’s goal: to avenge her adoptive father and earn back rights and dignity for her people.

Prince Navin has always felt like an outcast. Second in line for the throne, he has never been close to his grandmother, Queen Bhairavi of Jwala. When a night out drinking with friends leads to his capture by the infamous Shadow Clan, Navin schemes to befriend Roshan and use her as a means to escape. His ploy, however, brings Navin closer to the corruption and poverty at the heart of Roshan’s province, raising questions about its governor and Navin’s own family.

To further complicate things, the closer Roshan and Navin get, the harder it becomes to fight their growing attraction. But how can they trust each other when the world as they know it starts to fall apart?

Set in a magical world inspired by the badlands of 17th century India, this standalone epic fantasy novel by Tanaz Bhathena is packed with political tensions, dangerous schemes, and swoon-worthy romance that asks the age old question: can love conquer all?

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WITCH KING by Martha Wells — May 30

We end with the start of a brand new series from Martha Wells, the author behind the phenomenal Murderbot Diaries sci-fi stories. While Murderbot may be what Wells is best known for, she’s been writing for quite a while now; long before Murderbot captivated readers, Wells was already making a name for herself with her The Books of Raksura fantasy series.

In May, Wells is returning to the genre with her first new fantasy novel in more than a decade. And while it may be a departure from Murderbot, it’s sure to include all the wit, charm and adventure that have made Wells’ work so beloved. Witch King is the story of Kai, a demon who finds himself tied against his will to a mage.

“I didn’t know you were a… demon.”
“You idiot. I’m the demon.”
Kai’s having a long day in Martha Wells’ WITCH KING….

After being murdered, his consciousness dormant and unaware of the passing of time while confined in an elaborate water trap, Kai wakes to find a lesser mage attempting to harness Kai’s magic to his own advantage. That was never going to go well.

But why was Kai imprisoned in the first place? What has changed in the world since his assassination? And why does the Rising World Coalition appear to be growing in influence?

Kai will need to pull his allies close and draw on all his pain magic if he is to answer even the least of these questions.

He’s not going to like the answers.

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

And thus concludes our round-up of new fantasy and sci-fi books releasing in May! What are you adding to your TBR?

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