She Strengthens

Discover the Best Fiction Releases from Black Authors This Year

The world of fiction has seen an incredible surge in outstanding releases from Black authors, and we’re excited to share our top picks with you. From contemporary YA fantasies to historical fiction, romance, and sci-fi, there’s something for every reader. Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich storytelling and diverse perspectives of these talented authors.

Legendborn by Tracy Deonn: A Contemporary YA Fantasy

What happens when you combine Southern #BlackGirlMagic with a campus secret society and a fresh twist on Arthurian legend? You get Legendborn, an unputdownable story that explodes with power, self-discovery, and mysterious memories. This book is a must-read for anyone looking for a captivating heroine and a thrilling plot.

The Prophets by Robert Jones Jr.: A Soul-Stirring Debut

Set on a plantation in the Deep South, The Prophets is a stunning debut that explores the vulnerability and layers of grief through the lens of two enslaved young men. Despite depicting the horrors of slavery, the book is ultimately a testament to the power of hope, kindness, and love.

Happily Ever Afters by Elise Bryant: A YA Rom-Com

If you’re looking for a lighthearted, adorable story, Happily Ever Afters is the perfect choice. This YA rom-com follows 16-year-old Tessa as she navigates the world of writing and love. With its witty dialogue and relatable characters, this book is sure to leave you smiling.

Yellow Wife by Sadeqa Johnson: A Historical Fiction Masterpiece

Based on the real-life experience of Mary Lumpkin, Yellow Wife is an intense, traumatic, and important story that explores the complexities of love, freedom, and survival in the most infamous slave jail in Virginia.

Concrete Rose by Angie Thomas: A Gripping Coming-of-Age Story

In this powerful book, Angie Thomas revisits Garden Heights 17 years before the events of The Hate You Give. Concrete Rose is a poignant exploration of Black boyhood and manhood, as 17-year-old Maverick Carter navigates the challenges of providing for his mom and finding his place in the world.

Remote Control by Nnedi Okorafor: A Sci-Fi Novella

From the Nebula and Hugo Award-winning author Nnedi Okorafor comes Remote Control, a mesmerizing sci-fi story about an adopted daughter of the Angel of Death. With its richly captivating pages, this novella packs a punch and is a must-read for fans of the genre.

Wings of Ebony by J. Elle: An Urban Fantasy Debut

In this debut urban fantasy, Rue, a Black teen from Houston, discovers she has godly ancestry and must save not only the human world but the god worlds too. With its threads of sisterhood, family, and adventure, Wings of Ebony is a thrilling ride that will keep you up late into the night.

How the One-Armed Sister Sweeps Her House by Cherie Jones: A Caribbean Debut

From a brilliant Caribbean writer comes this debut novel set in Barbados, about four interconnected lives and the legacy of violence in a rapidly changing resort town. Perfect for fans of Zadie Smith and Marlon James, this book is full of murder, mystery, heartbreaking loss, and a transportive narrative voice.

The Kindest Lie by Nancy Johnson: A Must-Read About Race, Class, and Motherhood

Set in 2008 during the inauguration of President Barack Obama, The Kindest Lie follows Ruth, a Black engineer in Chicago, as she navigates racial tensions and uncovers a family secret. This book is a powerful exploration of race, class, and motherhood, and is a must-read for anyone looking for a thought-provoking story.

The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna: A YA Fantasy Series

This YA fantasy series is a fierce West African feminist story in which girls are outcasts by blood but warriors by choice. With its inspiring story of inner strength, The Gilded Ones is a must-read for fans of Children of Blood and Bone and Black Panther.

Honey Girl by Morgan Rogers: A Relatable Debut Novel

In this relatable debut novel, 28-year-old Grace has just completed her PhD in astronomy, but her carefully laid plans are scattered to the wind by a difficult job market and a trip to Vegas, where she unexpectedly wakes up with a ring on her finger. This book is a heartwarming story of love, identity, and self-discovery.

What’s Mine and Yours by Naima Coster: A Sweeping Tale of Identity and Race

This new novel by the author of Halsey Street explores the complexities of identity, the American family, and the many ways race affects relationships. With its delicate and hardening storytelling, What’s Mine and Yours is a must-read for anyone looking for a thought-provoking tale.

The Final Revival of Opal & Nev by Dawnie Walton: An Emotional Oral History

For fans of Daisy Jones & the Six and Queenie comes this emotional oral history of a fictional Afropunk rock ‘n’ roll duo in the 1970s. Opal is a confident, independent young woman who launches a career in New York’s music scene, navigating the pitfalls of fame and discrimination.

Witches Steeped in Gold by Ciannon Smart: A Jamaican-Inspired YA Fantasy

This Jamaican-inspired YA fantasy debut is perfect for fans of Furyborn and An Ember in the Ashes. With its compelling dual POV from witches Iraya and Jazmyne, Witches Steeped in Gold is a thrilling ride full of political intrigue and scheming.

Son of the Storm by Suyi Davies Okungbowa: A Highly Anticipated Fantasy Spin

This highly anticipated spin on the traditional “quest” fantasy story explores themes of colonialism, buried histories, forbidden magic, and war in a West African-inspired world. With its intricate lore and morally gray characters, Son of the Storm is a must-read for fans of The City of Brass, The Rage of Dragons, and The Shadow of What Was Lost.