
10 Best Fantasy Books with Strong Female Leads
Fantasy literature has long been a realm of powerful characters, but there’s something truly special about a well-written, strong female lead. Whether they’re warriors, witches, queens, or scholars, these heroines defy expectations and inspire readers with their courage, intelligence, and resilience. If you’re looking for fantasy books featuring strong female protagonists, here are ten must-reads that belong on your bookshelf.
1. "The Priory of the Orange Tree" by Samantha Shannon
A sweeping epic filled with dragons, magic, and political intrigue, this book features Queen Sabran IX and her loyal protector Ead, both powerful and independent women fighting against an ancient threat.
2. "A Court of Thorns and Roses" by Sarah J. Maas
Feyre Archeron starts as a mortal huntress but grows into a formidable force, taking control of her destiny in a world of fae, magic, and romance.
3. "The Poppy War" by R.F. Kuang
Rin, an orphan from a poor village, defies expectations by earning a place in an elite military academy. Her journey is brutal and full of sacrifice, making her one of the most compelling heroines in modern fantasy.
4. "Circe" by Madeline Miller
A retelling of the Greek myth, this novel follows Circe, a goddess who carves her own path despite being exiled and underestimated by the gods.
5. "Truthwitch" by Susan Dennard
Safiya and Iseult are powerful witches in a world full of shifting alliances and war. Their deep friendship and individual strengths make this an excellent read for fans of strong female leads.
6. "Jade City" by Fonda Lee
Shae, one of the ruling members of a powerful crime family in a world inspired by Asian fantasy, must navigate politics, loyalty, and family duty while asserting her own strength.
7. "Ninth House" by Leigh Bardugo
Alex Stern is a survivor with a dark past who gets the opportunity of a lifetime to join Yale’s secret societies—only to uncover dangerous occult mysteries.
8. "The Bone Season" by Samantha Shannon
Paige Mahoney is a dreamwalker in a dystopian fantasy setting where clairvoyants are hunted. She fights to reclaim power and change her world.
9. "The Inheritance Trilogy" by N.K. Jemisin
Yeine Darr, an outcast in a ruling family of gods and mortals, is thrown into deadly political schemes, proving that she’s as cunning as she is strong.
10. "Serpent & Dove" by Shelby Mahurin
Lou, a witch hiding in a society that wants her dead, finds herself in an unlikely marriage with a witch hunter. She’s fierce, witty, and refuses to let fate dictate her future.
These books are filled with incredible female characters who challenge norms, fight against oppression, and stand strong in the face of adversity. Which of these have you read? Let us know in the comments below!
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