17 fantasy and science fiction books to read in September 2023
By Daniel Roman
THE WORDS OF KINGS AND PROPHETS by Shauna Lawless (Gael Song #2) — September 14
This month will see the arrival of the much-anticipated sequel to Shauna Lawless’ The Children of Gods and Fighting Men. The second book in the Gael Song series, The Words of Kings and Prophets is set in a fantastical version of medieval Ireland where conflicted characters are caught in the midst of a looming war. It’s drawn comparisons to both Game of Thrones and The Last Kingdom, but with its own distinct flavor thanks to its Irish roots and clashing factions of magic. If you’re a fan of either of those series this is one you probably want on your radar.
Ireland, 1000 AD. Clouds of war gather for mortals and immortals alike as the Irish kingdoms strive for supremacy.
Gormflaith, unhappy queen of Brian Boru, schemes to destroy the Descendants, sworn enemies of her Fomorian kind. As her plans take an unexpected turn, Gormflaith discovers her magic is more powerful than she ever realised – but at what cost?
Descendant healer Fódla dwells disguised in the mortal world, seeking to protect her young nephew – but the boy has secrets of his own. Fódla must do all in her power to keep him hidden from those who would use him for evil.
When a mysterious man comes to King Brian’s court, his presence could spell disaster for both Gormflaith and Fódla – and for Ireland herself. For he is Tomas, an ambitious immortal – and he will do anything to see his plans become reality…
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THE PRIMAL HUNTER 7: A LITRPG ADVENTURE — September 15
Next we step over into the realm of LitRPGs for The Primal Hunter 7 by Zogarth. If this is the first you’re hearing about LitRPGs, or Literary Role Playing Games, welcome. This genre combines elements from gaming like leveling up and character progression with more traditional storytelling, often with the gaming elements clearly defined for the characters. The genre has taken off in a huge way in recent years; if you’re into gaming and reading and haven’t heard about LitRPGs, this may be a genre you’d enjoy quite a lot.
The Primal Hunter is a well-loved series in the genre which follows a group of office workers who are transported to a multiverse where they have to master various skills in order to survive. The series has a very clearly defined set of game rules as main character Jake hones his craft to become a “true apex hunter.”
The Primal Hunter 7 is, obviously, the seventh installment in this series. Since it’s a linear progression for the characters, you’re probably going to want to start at the beginning.