First Books in Epic Series’ by Women Other Than Fourth Wing & ACOTAR
This list was inspired by the reading prompt: Read an Epic Series Starter in the Playing Card Reading Challenge (King of Clubs). Looking for an epic tale written by a woman that isn’t Fourth Wing or A Court of Thorns and Roses? Well, I have a list for you! Each of these is the first book in an epic series or saga written by a woman. Most, but not all, of these are in the Fantasy genre.
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What is an Epic series?
Usually used in relation to Fantasy books, Epic refers to stories with a grand scale and high stakes. Generally associated with intricate world-building, extensive casts of characters, and plots that impact the entire world where the story takes place or permanently change the history of that world.
Fonda Lee
In this World Fantasy Award-winning novel, four siblings battle rival clans for honor and power in an Asia-inspired fantasy metropolis, where jade is the lifeblood of the island and enhances magical abilities.
Green Bone Saga
Also fulfills: Read a book with a color in the title. Read a book that won an award. Read a fantasy novel.
N.K. Jemisin
In a world where earth’s power is weaponized, a woman with a secret ability searches for her kidnapped daughter amid global catastrophe and betrayal. Hugo Award winner.
The Broken Earth
Also fulfills: Read a book that won an award. Read a fantasy novel. Read a book with a number in the title.
Rebecca Roanhorse
A blind passenger and disgraced captain sail towards a holy city during a prophetic eclipse, where forbidden magic and political intrigue await. Winner of the Hugo Award for best series!
Between Earth & Sky
Also fulfills: Read a book with a color in the title.
Kat Ross
In a world controlled by the Church, tarot reader Kasia must confront her dark secret when she meets a deviant-hunting priest, as they race to stop an evil force threatening their magic-layered society.
Nightmarked
Also fulfills: Read a romance. Read a fantasy novel.
Samantha Shannon
A queendom’s survival hinges on an heir, but assassins lurk as an ancient enemy awakens, forcing a mage, a dragonrider, and divided factions to confront chaos.
The Roots of Chaos
Also fulfills: Read a book with a color in the title
Jen Williams
A group of adventurers are hired to retrieve ancient artifacts and face down monsters, but they soon find themselves embroiled in a tangled web of magic and war as the Jure’lia threaten to invade. British Fantasy Award Winner
The Winnowing Flame Trilogy
Also fulfills: Read a book that won an award. Read a book with a number in the title.
Arkady Martine
Hugo Award winner follows Ambassador Mahit Dzmare investigating her predecessor’s murder while navigating alien culture and protecting her Station from imperial expansion, all while guarding a dangerous technological secret.
Teixcalaan
Also fulfills: Read a book that won an award
Juliet Marillier
In 10th century Ireland, Sorcha must break a sorceress’s curse on her six brothers while dealing with captivity and forbidden love for her warlord captor.
Sevenwaters Trilogy
Also fulfills: Read a fantasy novel. Read a romance.
Intisar Khanani
The winding streets and narrow alleys of Karolene hide many secrets, and Hitomi is one of them. Orphaned at a young age, Hitomi has learned to hide her magical aptitude and who her parents really were. Most of all, she must conceal her role in the Shadow League, an underground movement working to undermine the powerful and corrupt Arch Mage Wilhelm Blackflame.
The Sunbolt Chronicles
Also fulfills: Read a book with a one-word title.
Kristen Britain
With memorable characters, unique magic, and a story that will keep readers on the edge of their seats, this action-packed, feminist fantasy is a must-read for lovers of the genre.
Green Rider Series
Also fulfills: Read a book with a color in the title. Read a fantasy novel.
Saara El-Arifi
In a world where blood determines one’s social status, three women from different backgrounds unite to challenge a ruthless empire, igniting a revolution that threatens to upend the established order.
Ending Fire Series
Also fulfills: Read a fantasy novel.
S.A. Chakraborty
A con woman with healing gifts accidentally summons a djinn warrior and must flee Cairo with him to a magical kingdom where her presence threatens to ignite a centuries-old war.
The Daevabald Trilogy
Also fulfills: Read a fantasy novel.
M.A. Carrick
A con artist infiltrates a noble house, only to uncover a web of dark magic and corruption threatening her city.
Rook & Rose Series
Also fulfills: Read a fantasy novel. Read a book with LGBTQ+ representation.
Tasha Suri
A ruthless princess and powerful priestess unite, their fates intertwined, to ignite a revolution and rewrite the destiny of an empire. A World Fantasy Award winner.
The Burning Kingdoms
Do you read Epics? What do you love about them? Do you have a favorite? Tell us in the comments!
May your life be as full as your bookshelf and as long as your TBR list.
Happy Reading!
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