The Very Best Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books of 2022

Set in the distant future, humanity is split into two, with the privileged departing for lofty space colonies while the less fortunate are left behind in a collapsing Earth. 

Told through a myriad of characters, this post-apocalyptic novel delves into the fascinating intricacies of race, class, and the gentrification of space.

In this Japanese-inspired fantasy, an ordinary innkeeper's daughter must embark on a dangerous quest to reverse the curse that threatens to permanently transform her into a demon with a deadly touch.

Brimming with romance, self-discovery, and demonic mayhem, this novel will surely appeal to fans of Inuyasha.

This middle grade contemporary fantasy follows a young Chinese-American boy and his perilous mission to seal the Chinese underworld portal before the upcoming Ghost Month threatens the safety of the mortal realm.

This cozy fantasy novel follows Viv, a retired orc barbarian who dreams of opening the first-ever coffee shop in Thune. Though her past warrior life isn't willing to let her go quite so easily.

Legends & Lattes is a widely loved BookTok sensation for a reason! A perfect pick for fantasy fans looking for a comforting, slice-of-life story.

When her friends start falling prey to a mysterious illness, Hana Hsu's investigations lead to spying on one of the most powerful corporations in the country.

This middle-grade novel is led by a young, determined STEM protagonist and offers a dynamic tale that questions the role of technology in our lives.

In the highly-anticipated conclusion to Ken Liu's Dandelion Dynasty series, the battle continues as science and destiny collide against the will of the gods.

A sweeping silkpunk fantasy that tackles imperialism, Chinese history, and warfare.

As a thrilling new addition to the Chronicles of the Avatar series, this installment follows Avatar Yangchen and her tumultuous journey from untested young woman to widely respected leader. 

Casual and diehard fans of Avatar alike will be very thrilled by the high-stakes adventure inside F.C. Yee’s latest novel!

Mika Moon believes in hiding in plain sight. Which is why she has a dedicated online account where she creates videos pretending to be a witch, despite hiding her real witchy magic in the offline world. Until she receives a mysterious message inviting her to teach three young witches how to control their magic.

On top of the magical whimsy, this is a comforting novel that embraces quirkiness and found families.

Set in 1820s London, this story follows an orphaned Chinese boy working to rise through the ranks in Oxford University's prestigious Royal Institute of Translation. 

An intelligently crafted tale set in a world where magic comes in the form of enchanted silver bars and translation is a tool for colonial power. Perfect for lovers of dark academia!

Set in a world where people suffer from the tyrannical reign of the Moon Throne, two warriors release an ancient god from royal captivity and embark on a daunting pilgrimage to end the oppressive dynasty.

Highly compelling for readers who enjoy ambitious fantasy stories told through lush, evocative prose.

Despite dedicating his life to hunting down rogue vampires, Remy Pendergast remains an outcast in the kingdom he serves. When a terrifying new breed of vampire is discovered, no one is eager to help with his investigation. Except for a strangely warmhearted vampire heiress and her insufferable fiancé.

Serving a deliciously fascinating murder mystery and page-on-page tension, this book is a refreshing take on vampiric lore.

When two warring factions discover rare saint-like powers inside a nobody miner from an abandoned planet, Misery is suddenly thrust into the heart of political machinations and space battles.

Pitched as queer Joan of Arc meets Pacific Rim, this is an electrifying space opera that promises high stakes and interstellar action.

When terrifying shadow creatures kidnap her family, 10-year-old Marikit must rely on her mother's homemade patchwork dress to navigate the magical land of the Engkantos to save them.

A heartwarming adventure story that centers Filipino family dynamics, magic, and a young girl’s admirable courage. Middle grade readers, don’t sleep on this title!