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Magic in fantasy worlds often comes with a steep cost, sometimes even risking the very lives of those who wield it. These tales delve into the consequences of tapping into magical powers, exploring the sacrifices characters must make in exchange for extraordinary abilities. From sapphic high fantasy to Chinese-inspired epics, these books offer a captivating glimpse into the deadly side of magic.
The Jasmine Throne by Tasha Suri
In a lush, south-Asian-inspired fantasy realm, Priya navigates a world where harnessing the power of the deathless waters comes at a grave cost. When she becomes entangled with a dangerous princess, Priya must confront the deadly consequences of her magic while navigating political intrigue and forbidden desires.
The Jasad Heir by Sara Hashem (July 18, 2023)
Sylvia, heir to a fallen kingdom, conceals her magical abilities to survive in a world where the use of magic exacts a heavy toll. As she is drawn into a deadly competition, Sylvia grapples with the true extent of her powers and the perilous secrets of her lineage.
The Poppy War by R. F. Kuang
Rin, a low-born student, discovers her aptitude for shamanism, unlocking formidable powers that come with a harrowing price. As she navigates a world on the brink of war, Rin must confront the devastating consequences of her magic while wrestling with questions of identity and allegiance.
Witchmark by C. L. Polk
In an Edwardian-era Gaslamp fantasy, Miles uncovers the dark truth behind the imprisonment of witches and the hidden costs of their magic. Teaming up with a mysterious ally, Miles embarks on a perilous journey to dismantle a system built on exploitation and suffering.
The Bone Maker by Sarah Beth Durst
Kreya, a practitioner of bone magic, grapples with the consequences of her powers as she seeks to resurrect a fallen comrade. But when a long-buried threat resurfaces, Kreya must confront the true price of her magic and rally her former allies to save the world once more.
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V. E. Schwab
Addie bargains for immortality but faces the anguish of being forgotten by all she meets. As she traverses centuries, Addie grapples with the repercussions of her Faustian deal, navigating a world where every choice carries a deadly consequence.
The Unbroken by C.L. Clark
Touraine, a soldier with a turbulent past, forms an unlikely alliance with a rebel leader as they confront the dark secrets of their empire’s magic. Together, they must navigate treacherous terrain and make unimaginable sacrifices to secure their freedom and overthrow a corrupt regime.
One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig
Elspeth grapples with a deadly magical affliction and a perilous bargain that saved her life. As she becomes embroiled in a quest for powerful artifacts, Elspeth must navigate a treacherous world where every decision could cost her dearly.
Embracing the Consequences
From forbidden rituals to ancient curses, these fantasy novels explore the myriad ways in which magic exacts a toll on those who wield it. As characters confront their own mortality and wrestle with the darkness within, readers are drawn into a world where the line between power and peril blurs. So, immerse yourself in these captivating tales and discover the deadly allure of magic in all its forms. But beware, for every spell cast may come with a price too steep to pay.
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