Most Highly Anticipated Asian Fantasy Books for 2019

I’ve never been more excited for the new year because it just means we’re that much closer to the releases of tons of wonderful books. 🎉 Ever since I’ve started blogging, I’ve become much more aware of new releases, and this is my first year where I’ve had an actual list of books I can’t wait to read and am not-so-patiently waiting to be published! These books, specifically, hold a special place in my heart because they’re written by Asian authors, and I will always support these diverse reads until the end of time. 904e90fac1019799ebda0427863f0933.gifTherefore, I present to you my most highly anticipated 2019 Asian Fantasy releases AKA books that I would sell my soul to read 💘:

1. The Dragon Warrior by Katie Zhao

First off, let me start off by saying that Katie is the sweetest and most amazing person, and I’m looking forward to her book more than anything in the world. 😍 Every time she posts a snippet of her book on Twitter, my heart swells and the anticipation grows. The Dragon Warrior is Percy Jackson (AKA the book that defined my childhood and put me on the path to become a reader) meets Asian badassery. This is a book that will inspire young children and touch the hearts of older readers, and I already have a master plan to gift it to all my younger cousins in the upcoming year.

2. Descendant of the Crane by Joan He

36430989I have heard so many great things about this book around the book community—from endless tears to survivor pins. Every person that has read it only had wonderful things to say. I already know that this is a book that will break my heart…but I am all here for it. 😭 Descendant of the Crane is crafted as a Chinese historical Game of Thrones. (Do you hear that? It’s me screaming) I’m so excited to learn more about Princess Hesina and all the politics of the court! Plus, LOOK AT THAT COVER!! It’s honestly too beautiful for words!!

3. Blood Heir by Amélie Wen Zhao 

38205707Amélie’s “Dear Reader” letter was so wonderfully touching—it made me tear up. Blood Heir is a dark retelling of Anastasia, but it’s also a story of self-acceptance. It doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities and consequences of demonizing the Other, yet it also ignites a spark of hope by inspiring children of color to fight against oppression. ASDFGHJKL I could gush on and on about this book!

The main character, Anastacya, has the ability to control blood which1) is so freaking badass and 2) reminds me of Katara’s bloodbending ability in Avatar: The Last Airbender. In other words, she’s the coolest character ever. ✨ Also, I’m making it a personal mission to watch Anastasia before the release of this book!

4. The Weight of Our Sky by Hanna Alkaf

35614314.jpgEvery review that I’ve read about this book gushes endlessly about how devastatingly emotional it is. ☁ It has OCD and anxiety representation which I am so excited to see and read, and it tackles violence and cruelty head-on. At the same time, this is a book where I know I’ll learn a lot just by reading. I’m ashamed to say that I don’t know a lot about Malaysia and, more specifically, about the race riots in 1969. This book is shedding light and awareness to these important historical events and, truthfully, is more important than ever.

5. The Dragon Republic by R.F. Kuang

41118857I absolutely loved The Poppy War with all my heart, and I cannot wait to continue the series with The Dragon Republic when it’s released next year! R.F Kuang’s writing is absolutely mesmerizing. 🌟 The Poppy War was filled with twists and turns that constantly kept me on my toes, and I desperately need to know what has been going on with Rin.

Participants - Project14Lists.png

#Project14Lists is a project Shealea from That Bookshelf Bitch started, with a goal to write and post a bookish list every day from December 18th to December 31st. Participating bloggers are tasked to come up with creative list ideas, and on each day until December 31st, write a list and post it on their respective blogs. Check out who else has accepted this blogging challenge here.

If you’re interested in joining the fun as well as entering an exclusive giveaway for participating bloggers, By the way, there is an exclusive giveaway for participating bloggers! Learn how you can join in on the fun by reading this.


What are your most anticipated reads for 2019? Let me know in the comments! 💕

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27 thoughts on “Most Highly Anticipated Asian Fantasy Books for 2019

  1. all of these books are on my list too, except for the dragon republic because i’ve not read the poppy wars. i’m getting excited for what 2019 has to bring for asian books.

    Liked by 1 person

  2. All of these books are on my TBR except for the last but that’s because I haven’t had a chance to read The Poppy War yet. 2019 is going to be a blessing on the book front and I cannot wait. ❤

    Liked by 1 person

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