If you’re like me and can’t resist a good dose of magic, adventure, and steamy romance wrapped up in a mythical package, then this list is for you. For the Romanceopoly Reading Challenge prompt Journey’s End, we’re diving into fantasy mythology books that are non-Greek mythology. From Japanese kitsune legends to Norse mythology and pirate-infused voodoo, we’ve got some exciting recommendations that will take you on a wild ride through realms unknown. Let’s get started!
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Check out the podcast episode where I talk about each of these fantasy book recommendations
Fantasy Mythology Books by Make It Non-Greek
Heart of Fire by Bec McMaster
READ THIS BOOK IF YOU WANT:
- Norse Mythology
- Set in Iceland
- Dragon shifters!
In this Norse-inspired romance, the fierce and independent Freyja confronts the enigmatic Prince Rurik, a dreki prince who takes mortal form despite the danger to win her heart. The fated-mates trope is wonderfully executed against the backdrop of Icelandic volcanoes, where tension and passion ignite. Freyja isn’t afraid to confront Rurik, who has an air of superiority and otherworldly power. Their fiery chemistry builds from tension into a passionate romance. With a Viking setting and Norse mythology woven throughout, Heart of Fire is an exciting slow-burn romance that will captivate fantasy romance lovers with its blend of action, magic, and steamy moments.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Heart of Fire by Bec McMaster book review
Shadow of the Fox by Julie Kagawa
READ THIS BOOK IF YOU WANT:
- Japanese mythology
- Slow burn romance
- Magical quest
Julie Kagawa brings the world of ancient feudal Japan to life with her skillful blend of mythology and familiar figures like samurai, ronin, and shinobi. The book follows the journey of half-kitsune Yumeko and the dark shinobi Kage Tatsumi. The story unfolds in classic quest fashion as the characters encounter new companions and face threats while searching for the missing pieces of the Scroll of a Thousand Prayers. Yumeko and Tatsumi’s slow-burn romance builds beautifully as their uneasy alliance becomes a bond of loyalty and love. If you crave a young adult fantasy adventure rich in Japanese mythology, with an emerging romance that will leave you eager for more, Shadow of the Fox is a must-read.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Shadow of the Fox by Julie Kagawa book review
The Wrath and the Dawn by Renee Ahdieh
READ THIS BOOK IF YOU WANT:
- A Thousand and One Nights retelling
- Middle Eastern mythology
- Enemies and revenge to lovers
Inspired by A Thousand and One Nights, the story revolves around Khalid, the Caliph of Khorasan, who marries a new bride each night only to have her executed at sunrise. Shahrzad volunteers to be his next bride after her best friend was executed and seeks revenge against the boy-king. Her plan? Tell him a story each night and withhold the ending to stay alive. However, things aren’t what they seem, and soon she finds herself falling in love with Khalid. Their connection grows deeper with each passing day as Shahrzad uncovers Khalid’s secrets. The beautiful setting, strong writing, and engaging characters make this story irresistible. If you’re looking for a sumptuous love story with a captivating world, then this book is for you.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our The Wrath and the Dawn by Renee Ahdieh book review
The First Girl Child by Amy Harmon
READ THIS BOOK IF YOU WANT:
- Norse mythology
- Chosen one prophecy
- Political intrigue
There are a few things I know for sure when diving into an Amy Harmon book: the writing will captivate, and the story will transport me to another place and time. The First Girl Child is no exception, and Harmon excels in bringing Norse mythology to life in this beautifully written fantasy romance. The story spans over 20 years, following Bayr of Saylok, the bastard son of a jealous chieftain, and Alba, the first girl child born in Saylok after a curse was placed on the land. Raised together, Bayr and Alba’s bond grows deeper amidst political intrigue and prophecies. Bayr’s loyalty, strength, and love for Alba make him a memorable hero, while Alba’s courage and determination add depth to the story. Harmon weaves a rich tapestry of Norse myth and unforgettable characters, painting a vivid picture of a cursed kingdom and a love that could save it. The First Girl Child will enchant you with its storytelling, romance, and the promise of unexpected salvation.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our The First Girl Child by Amy Harmon book review
Deadmen Walking by Sherrilyn Kenyon
READ THIS BOOK IF YOU WANT:
- Mkix of mythologies including Caribbean, Latin, Greek, Celtic and Christian folklore
- Pirates of the Caribbean vibes
- Second chance romance
To catch evil, it takes evil. Enter Devyl Bane—an ancient dark warlord returned to the human realm as one of the most notorious pirates in the New World. A man of many secrets, Bane makes a pact with Thorn, an immortal charged with securing humanity, to return to the world of man and fight against the demons and creatures who have escaped from hell to prey on mortals. But things are never as simple as they seem, and one of the biggest problems Bane faces is the ship he’s taken command of—a crew made up of damned souls he once ruled over in the afterlife, whose loyalties are to themselves and no one else.
Bane also has to face the one woman he knows he can never have: Mara. Once princess of a Caribbean island, she is now a voodoo priestess with her own secrets to keep and a mission she dares not fail. Together, they must fight or face unthinkable terrors that would tear the world apart.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Deadmen Walking by Sherrilyn Kenyon book review
Heart of the Fae by Emma Hamm
READ THIS BOOK IF YOU WANT:
- Irish mythology (fae and Celtic folklore)
- Beauty and the Beast retelling
- Magical quest
A devastating plague. A deal with the fae. And a magical realm she might not survive… When a plague sweeps across the emerald hills of Uí Néill, Sorcha makes a deal with a dangerous Fae to save her people. Now she must travel the sea, explore merrow and kelpie lands, and find a forgotten king on a crumbling throne. Born king of the Seelie Fae, Eamonn fought battles unnumbered to uphold honor, duty, and freedom… until his twin brother sank a blade between his shoulders. Crystals grew from the wound, splitting open skin and bone. His people banished him to a cursed isle for his disfigurement, where he now rules as a king of outcasts and criminals. With the help of brownies, pixies, and will-o’-the-wisps, Sorcha battles to break through his crystalline shell and persuade him to take back his stolen throne. But can this determined beauty come dangerously close to stealing his beastly heart… or will his enemies kill her first? Fans of Beauty and the Beast and Outlander are being swept away by this magical retelling of the beloved fairytale! Scroll up and one-click to start reading this enchanting fantasy romance novel today!
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