If you loved
Books like Ariah
An epic queer fantasy that weaves intimate romance and dangerous magic into a sweeping tale of war, sacrifice, and self-discovery. These 12 books are the closest matches in mood, pace and themes, with what each one shares with Ariah.
- adventurous
- romantic
- tense
- sweeping
- 01
The God Eaters
Jesse Hajicek
A gritty, magic-laced romance where an unlikely alliance sparks a defiant rebellion against an oppressive regime.
- 02
The Queen of Ieflaria
Effie Calvin
A warm and low-angst sapphic fantasy where the burdens of royal duty unexpectedly blossom into a tender, supportive romance.
- 03
In Other Lands
Sarah Rees Brennan
A hilarious, sharp-tongued subversion of portal fantasy that hides a remarkably tender story about growing up and finding your people.
- 04
Witchmark
C. L. Polk
A gaslit blend of murder mystery, political intrigue, and tender romance set in the shadow of a magical world war.
- 05
The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet
Becky Chambers
A warm, character-driven journey through the stars that feels like coming home to a family you never knew you had.
- 06
Crier's War
Nina Varela
A simmering, slow-burn romance wrapped in a tense political rebellion where the line between human and machine blurs.
- 07
The Bridge Kingdom
Danielle L. Jensen
A stormy, high-stakes romantasy where deadly secrets and slow-burn tension collide on a treacherous bridge.
- 08
The Ruin of Kings
Jenn Lyons
A sprawling, puzzle-box epic that gleefully dismantles classic fantasy tropes through snarky footnotes, dual timelines, and a deeply cynical protagonist.
- 09
Ophelia after All
Racquel Marie
A warm, funny, and tender exploration of what happens when the person you thought you were no longer fits the person you are becoming.
- 10
Captive prince #1
C. S. Pacat
A razor-sharp dance of political intrigue and simmering hatred where survival depends on trusting your worst enemy.
- 11
Ander and Santi Were Here
Jonny Garza Villa
A tender, sun-drenched queer romance that celebrates the vibrant sanctuary of community before confronting the heartbreaking realities of the American immigration system.
- 12
Cinderella Is Dead
Kalynn Bayron
A dark, defiant fairy tale where the glass slipper is a trap and the princesses are holding the matches.
