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Books like The Poppy War

Readers who loved R. F. Kuang’s *The Poppy War* are often seeking more than just epic fantasy; they crave stories that delve into morally complex characters, intricate world-building, and the often-brutal realities of power. Our selections offer compelling narratives of ambition, survival, and the heavy cost of wielding influence, all within richly imagined settings.

Jade City

by Fonda Lee

Wuxia-inspired gangster epic

If you loved the brutal political machinations, intense martial arts, and morally gray characters fighting for power in a unique, magic-infused world, Jade City delivers a similar high-stakes, action-packed experience with a strong focus on family loyalty and betrayal.

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Gideon the Ninth

by Tamsyn Muir

Lesbian necromancers in space

For fans of dark, intricate magic systems and characters who are as sharp-tongued as they are deadly, Gideon the Ninth offers a unique blend of gothic horror, science fiction, and a deeply compelling, often brutal, character journey with high emotional stakes.

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The Jasmine Throne

by Tasha Suri

Queer princesses, ancient magic, and rebellion

For those who appreciated the dark political intrigue, the exploration of power dynamics, and the fight against oppressive regimes, this story features two women — an imprisoned princess and a priestess seeking revenge — who forge an alliance to reclaim their destinies and ignite a rebellion.

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