The Loom Tree by Angela Mi Young Hur, Erewhon Books, $ 28.00, 464 pages
Angela Mi Young Hur’s The Loom Tree is an ambitious and beautifully layered fantasy that blends Korean mythology, folklore, and magical academia into something wholly original. Through dual timelines, the novel explores identity, family history, and the stories that shape who we become, all while delivering the kind of immersive world-building fantasy readers love. The magical university setting, fairy-tale lineages, and emotionally resonant mother-daughter relationship give the novel remarkable depth. Richly imagined and lyrical from beginning to end, The Loom Tree promises an unforgettable reading experience that will especially appeal to fans of myth-infused fantasy and literary speculative fiction.
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For readers who adore fairy-tale retellings with emotional depth, The Secret World of Briar Rose is an enchanting debut from Cindy Pham. Reimagining Sleeping Beauty through a queer fantasy lens, the novel creates a breathtaking dreamscape filled with hidden kingdoms, magical portals, and unforgettable characters. The lush atmosphere is matched by thoughtful themes of grief, hope, identity, and healing, making this much more than a simple retelling. The gorgeous deluxe first edition only adds to its appeal, but it’s the heartfelt storytelling and imaginative world that truly make this one of the summer’s standout fantasy releases.
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Sarah Underwood once again proves her talent for reimagining mythology with Gentlest of Wild Things, a haunting and emotionally rich fantasy inspired by Greek legend. Drawing on the myths of Eros and Psyche while introducing darker folklore surrounding the empousa, the novel balances romance, danger, and mythology with remarkable elegance. The sapphic love story is beautifully woven into a tale of sacrifice, desire, and freedom, while the island setting creates a vivid, almost dreamlike backdrop. Atmospheric, heartfelt, and deeply imaginative, this is a mythology retelling that lingers long after the final page.
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Styx and Stones by Gary D. Schmidt and Ron Koertge, Clarion Books, $ 18.99, 240 pages
Funny, adventurous, and surprisingly heartfelt, Styx and Stones gives Greek mythology an irresistible middle-grade twist. Gary D. Schmidt and Ron Koertge combine laugh-out-loud humor with genuine emotional warmth as Simon, an orphan from ancient Greece, suddenly finds himself navigating modern middle school after centuries in the Underworld. Familiar mythological figures like Cerberus, Persephone, and Hades are cleverly woven into an action-packed coming-of-age story about friendship, courage, and finding where you belong. Packed with wit, memorable characters, and nonstop adventure, this is a fantastic pick for younger readers and mythology lovers alike.
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