As the weather turns colder, the upcoming month of November promises a wealth of new science fiction and fantasy books to dive into. The latest releases offer a mix of new series, continuations of established sagas, and standalone novels from both acclaimed authors and emerging talents. Readers can expect adventures featuring sky pirates, encounters with fae, and intricate political landscapes.
Cello's Gate by Maurice Africh (Nov. 3)
This debut science fantasy novel introduces Captain Grey and his crew of sky pirates, who are tasked with finding and stealing the mythical Stones of Indigo. Their quest leads them to an uncharted island guarded by a mysterious entity. The success of this mission hinges on uncovering their employer's secrets, as failure could have dire consequences. The book is recommended for fans of authors like Scott Lynch and Brandon Sanderson.
They Cry by Glen Cook (Nov. 3)
Glen Cook, a foundational figure in the grimdark genre, continues his Chronicles of The Black Company series with They Cry, the second book in the A Pitiless Rain arc. Arkana and Shukrat, now residing in the Black Company's former stronghold, discover latent magical abilities that draw them into new conflicts and dangerous schemes. They must confront a threat that could jeopardize the entire realm, especially with their adoptive father, Croaker, facing a crisis of his own humanity.
The Wolves of War by John Gwynne (Nov. 3)
Author of The Faithful and the Fallen and The Bloodsword Saga, John Gwynne launches a new epic fantasy series drawing inspiration from Slavic mythology. The narrative centers on Ivan, who is striving to protect his family amidst a brewing conflict between two rival princes. His daughter, Halia, possesses a unique connection to wolves and the fae, and her developing powers may be crucial for their survival.
A Glimmer of Death by Laurell K. Hamilton (Nov. 3)
This is the penultimate installment in the Merry Gentry series, following Meredith Gentry, a faerie princess operating as a private investigator in Los Angeles. Merry is pursuing those responsible for magical attacks on actresses while also attempting to break a curse afflicting Aisling, the intended heir to the Seelie Court. The unexpected return of a presumed-dead friend further complicates the already tense emotional and political situation.
Saved by the Spell by Tanya Huff (Nov. 3)
Bex Olynyk, a student at the High School for Magical Arts, quickly establishes themselves as a powerful figure, impressing peers and confronting bullies. This unexpected prominence alerts the faculty, who anticipate the arrival of a villain. The school's administration must work to minimize disruption and ensure academic progress for all students, even as a major confrontation looms. Huff is also known for her queer cozy horror novel, Direct Descendant.
Defy the Dusk by Danielle L. Jensen (Nov. 3)
From the New York Times-bestselling author of The Bridge Kingdom, this novel initiates a new duology that reimagines elements of Mad Max and Snowpiercer within a fantasy setting. Two decades after Lirien's magic irrevocably altered the world and unleashed nocturnal creatures, the survivors are divided. Those with power reside on the Dawnrider, a mobile fortress, while Lirien seeks atonement through a war against the encroaching darkness.
Monsters of Ohio by John Scalzi (Nov. 3)
John Scalzi, celebrated for his humorous science fiction works like Redshirts and Starter Villain, ventures into cosmic horror with Monsters of Ohio. The story is set in Richland, Ohio, a town facing typical economic challenges. However, when Mike Boyd returns home, he and his friends become entangled in a bizarre mystery involving a prized cow, moving beyond mundane concerns into a more unsettling reality.
Souls in Ruin by Jacqueline White (Nov. 3)
Jacqueline White's debut romantasy trilogy begins with Souls in Ruin. Mirelle, the illegitimate daughter of a king, is given in marriage to a notorious conqueror to secure her kingdom's borders. Finding herself imprisoned within her own castle, Mirelle discovers that a fellow prisoner may hold the key to her survival. This novel explores themes of political bargaining and unexpected alliances.
Murmuration by TJ Klune (Nov. 17)
TJ Klune, author of the popular queer fairy tale romance The House in the Cerulean Sea, presents Murmuration, a novel that appeals to fans of Severance and Stephen King. Mike enjoys a peaceful life in Amorea, working at a bookstore and participating in local clubs. His relationship with Sean is progressing, but disturbing memories of a past life begin to surface, coinciding with an increasing strangeness in the town. Mike must confront his resurfacing past to protect his present.
Line of Descent by Adam Oyebanji (Nov. 17)
Adam Oyebanji, known for blending sci-fi and crime thriller elements, releases Line of Descent. On the generation ship Archimedes, en route to Tau Ceti, a critical mission is jeopardized by a kidnapping. Faisal Vasconcelos investigates the incident involving a junior officer, suspecting terrorism, murder, and a power struggle among the ship's command staff. Oyebanji's background as a lawyer specializing in counterterrorism financing informs his writing, seen in previous works like Esperance.
