7 Must-Read Sci-Fi & Fantasy Books for Arcane Fans

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The TV show “Arcane” was more than just entertainment – it was a sensation. It captivated audiences and drew in new members to the League of Legends community. Among the numerous animated series released on Netflix, “Arcane” stood out as one of the best in recent years, which is quite an achievement. Even though season two ended months ago, we’re still struggling to cope. There’s simply no other show quite like “Arcane,” and finding something comparable to fill the void has been challenging – except perhaps books. Although no book will perfectly replicate the world of “Arcane,” there are several stories that come close enough to satisfy that craving, especially for fans who are currently yearning for something similar.

If you’re seeking a fresh, enchanting realm to escape into, the ideal sanctuary would be the fantasy section in a bookstore or library. Skilled fantasy writers excel at crafting colossal realms brimming with magic, power plays, mystery, and anything else an ardent fan of the arcane could desire. The range of fantasy books is vast, offering everything from the captivating steampunk atmosphere of popular series to intricate character development. No matter the specific style, readers can trust that these books will meet their expectations.

Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir

Gideon the Ninth” introduces us to a series called “The Locked Tomb.” This captivating first book takes us to a remote planet where Gideon, a resident of the Ninth House, yearns for a life beyond her current existence. However, as tales often warn, be mindful of your desires. The Emperor, also known as the Lord Undying, calls upon both Gideon and the Reverend Daughter from the Ninth House. They must navigate treacherous challenges, bizarre hurdles, and their mutual dislike for each other in this epic adventure.

If you’re in search of a captivating read that demands multiple rereadings, I can wholeheartedly recommend Gideon the Ninth. As a blend of sci-fi fantasy, theological narrative, and meme culture, it’s an intriguing mix that will keep you hooked. For fans of Arcane, this series delivers heart-wrenching romance, high tension, and intense confrontations.

This Is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone

In this tale, we have two competing entities – Red versus Blue. Conventional wisdom might suggest a series of clashes leading to one side’s demise. However, This Is How You Lose the Time War defies expectations. As something shifts in their reality, so too do they adapt. Through exchanged letters, a captivating ballet unfolds, drawing these adversaries nearer and heightening the suspense. Though they are aware of the ultimate cost – their lives – they find themselves unable to quit this deadly game.

In a story about two enemies – Red and Blue – we’d expect fights leading to one side’s death, but instead, it’s unpredictable. They’re connected through letters, and the dance between them grows tense. Despite knowing that playing this game means they’ll die, they can’t stop.

This Is How You Lose the Time War offers a thrilling and mystical reading experience, similar to Arcane. It’s a swift-moving tale with profound undertones. The language often seems poetic, while the advanced technology imbues the world with a fantastical quality.

Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao

Iron Widow

This novel, titled “Iron Widow,” is the first installment in a series and stands out as one of the most gripping action novels of its release year. It seamlessly merges high-octane mecha narrative with intricate politics and social critique. In the fictional nation of Huaxia, the protection of the Great Wall relies heavily on mechanical suits, referred to as Chrysalises. Interestingly, each Chrysalis necessitates two pilots, one male and one female. While they don’t often discuss it, there’s a significant number of women – more accurately, girls – who perish due to the grueling demands of piloting.

Determined not to meet the same fate as her predecessors, Zetian enlists as a pilot. However, she has a different goal: revenge against the man who orchestrated her sister’s demise. She’s not there just to die; she’s there to exact justice.

The “Iron Widow” is a novel rich in political depth, offering multiple layers of complexity. It tackles intricate topics such as historical context, patriarchy, retribution, and the cost of power. Fans of “Arcane” will find themselves resonating with Zetian’s drive and resolve. Initially marketed as a blend of “Pacific Rim” and “The Handmaid’s Tale”, it’s no wonder this book garnered so much attention.

Foundryside by Robert Jackson Bennett

Foundryside” is the inaugural book in “The Founders Trilogy,” an enthralling high fantasy series featuring grand scale intrigue and elaborate world-building. At times, one may find it necessary to enlist the services of a burglar to secure their most cherished ambition. Meet Sancia Grado, a skilled thief who knows her value. However, her latest job sets off a chain reaction that she can’t contain, as she was instructed to steal an artifact possessing unimaginable power. This sort of power should not exist, yet people are prepared to go to extreme lengths – even killing Sancia – for it. To survive and safeguard the world from further repercussions, Sancia must carve out a new destiny for herself, transforming from a thief into something greater.

In the realm of Foundryside, readers may find a setting that echoes the world of Arcane, albeit with its own distinct flavor. The city of Tevanne is divided between the affluent merchant dynasties and the less fortunate, who are confined within The Commons. Moreover, it offers a blend of perilous powers, cutting-edge enchantments, and captivating heist elements.

Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld & Keith Thompson

Leviathan” introduces the initial installment of the series bearing the same name, delving into an alternate timeline of Earth on the brink of World War I. The planet is tearing apart as two dominant forces, known as The Clankers and the Darwinists, engage in relentless conflict. Meanwhile, Prince Aleksander, who should be the heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, is fleeing for survival. He’s on a collision course with an unconventional ally, Deryn Sharp. Disguised as a British Air Service crew member, Deryn faces daily risks of being discovered. With their combined efforts, Aleksander and Deryn aim to halt the war and rescue the world.

For enthusiasts seeking a more steampunk atmosphere, Leviathan could be an ideal choice. The alternative history it presents is strikingly distinct from that in Arcane, yet the integration of innovative technologies adds a thrilling twist. Moreover, for fans who appreciate the dynamic between Vi and Catlyn, this book offers allies hailing from opposing factions of the conflict.

Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

The story “Six of Crows” initiates a new series under the same title and takes place within the broader universe established by “Shadow and Bone.” A distinctive band of characters inhabits the imaginative city of Ketterdam. Among them are Kaz Brekker, Inej Ghafa (also known as the Wraith), Nina Zenik, Matthias Helvar, Jesper Fahey, and Wylan Van Eck. Despite their imperfections, they’re a resolute group who have been tasked with a mission. Successfully completing this job could grant each of them their lifelong desires. However, the perils involved are extraordinarily great. Remarkably, this motley crew is daring enough to attempt it.

The novel titled “Six of Crows” offers an exhilarating heist involving significant risks. Fans of “Arcane” will find the diverse cast of characters, who are complex, realistic, and easy to empathize with, particularly appealing. Each character possesses a unique past and driving force, while numerous romantic undercurrents serve to captivate readers. Additionally, this band of misfits is connected to Netflix’s “Shadow and Bone” series.

Gearbreakers by Zoe Hana Mikuta

The novel titled “Gearbreakers” is the initial installment in a series by the same name. It tells the story of two young women who, despite being on opposite sides of a conflict, find themselves entwined in each other’s lives. Eris, a Gearbreaker, dismantles colossal mechanical weapons known as Windups to aid the rebellion. Sona, however, pilots one of these very same Windups, making them seemingly destined for enmity. Yet, Sona harbors a clandestine mission against the Windups and their ideals. A series of unforeseen events will draw these two together, setting in motion a chain reaction that will irrevocably alter both their lives and the course of the war. United, they will confront insurmountable challenges to prevent the oppressive regime of Godolia from expanding its rule across the globe.

As a diehard movie buff diving into the pages of Gearbreakers, I’ve found myself immersed in a captivating steampunk universe. This intricate world, brimming with political intrigue and power struggles, has certainly caught my attention, much like the mesmerizing realms depicted in Arcane. But what truly sets this tale apart is its enemies-to-lovers romance, adding an emotional depth that’s sure to keep me hooked!

Seasons one and two of the mysterious series titled “Arcane” can be streamed on Netflix. Similarly, the series “Shadow and Bone” is also accessible on Netflix for streaming. The novels “Gideon the Ninth”, “This Is How You Lose the Time War”, “Iron Widow”, “Foundryside”, “Leviathan”, “Six of Crows”, and “Gearbreakers” can be purchased at any bookstore where books are sold.

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2025-04-12 22:10