One thing I love about the fantasy genre is that everything is heightened, like a photo filter set to “vivid.”

The challenges are more demanding, the stakes are higher, and the obstacles appear to be insurmountable. And because of that, our heroines and heroes have to be elevated until they have what it takes to match, and defeat, the odds set against them. They have to be stronger, braver, faster, and smarter than us mere mortals, and despite their flaws they often symbolize what we aspire to be.

And in the same way that we look to non-fiction to improve our minds through instruction or information, I think it’s equally inmportant to turn to fiction to strengthen our hearts and renew our spirits.

This is not an exhaustive list by any means, but I wanted to share some stories that come to mind when I’m in need of some rejuvenation. Here are 13 stories of characters who overcome great obstacles (and kick some ass along the way!)

Throne of Glass

Celaena Sardothien is given an opportunity to escape her sentence to the Endovier salt mines by winning a cutthroat competition to become the king’s royal assassin. 

The cover pretty much sums it up. Celaena is unapologetically ruthless and holds her own in a predominantly male dominated profession where brute force is favored over skill or strategy, a bias that she is more than happy to challenge.

For when you need to pick yourself back up.

Red Rising

Darrow is part of the Reds, the lowest caste in humankind’s future interplanetary society. After tragedy strikes, he decides to join a mission to infiltrate the highest caste, disrupt the hierarchy, and free his people.

Red Rising reminded me of a far more complex interplanetary Hunger Games with stronger characters, deeper friendship, and higher stakes. 

For when you need to stand up against injustice.

Alanna, the First Adventure

Alanna has always yearned for adventure and dreams of being a knight, even though it is forbidden by the crown. She decides to take an enormous risk and pursues her goal by hiding her gender as she trains alongside the other pages . . .

If you’ve never read Pierce’s novels, this is a great place to start. And if you end up in love with the Kingdom of Tortall, you’re in luck. Pierce has several other series set in this world, including the Immortals, Protector of the Small, and her newest series I haven’t read yet, the Numair Chronicles. 

For when you need to follow your dreams despite a lack of support.

The Thief

The Magnus of Sounis recruits a young, conniving thief to help him track down a religious artifact called Hamiathe’s Gift that would give his kingdom uncontested political advantage if found.

This book drives me crazy because it is still sometimes shelved in the children’s section when it really reads at a much higher level. The child-thief Gen is a clever, unpredictable, and sometimes exasperating character who is impossible not to root for. Turner has been writing this series for decades which is reflected in the rich setting inspired by Greek and Mesopotamian culture. 

For when you’re feeling underestimated.  

Graceling

Katsa is a Graceling, one who has been born blessed with a special skill or power. When she is out on a mission for the king, she uncovers a secret about her Grace that could change the fate of the seven kingdoms . . . 

While I didn’t love the other two books in the series nearly as much, Graceling is still fantastic read if you’re looking for a fast-paced plot, interesting world-building, fun characters, and a cathartic outlet.

For when you need to vicariously kick some ass.

Steelheart

In this Bizarro-superman-like world, people who have incredible powers called Epics dominate humankind. A young man named David seeks revenge on a vicious Epic named Steelheart by relentlessly watching for his weakness.

Brandon Sanderson is an incredible fantasy and science fiction author who also branched out into writing YA, Steelheart included. If you like this one, I also recommend The Rithmatist, Elantris, and The Way of Kings.  

For when you need to feel empowered. 

Uprooted

Agnieszka’s village is caught between the ominous forces in the Woods and paying tribute in the form of a young maiden to a powerful wizard every ten years. When Agnieszka is chosen, she discovers the secrets surrounding her village, the Woods, and her own untapped abilities.

Inspired by a Polish folktale, Agnieszka and the Yellow Cow, Novik’s first stand-alone novel was a hit and received quite a bit of recognition including the Hugo Award Nominee for Best Novel (2016), the Nebula Award for Best Novel (2016), and the Locus Award for Best Fantasy Novel (2016). Agnieszka’s is a fun heroine – clumsy and a bit brash, and always full of antics that will keep you laughing and cheering her on.

For when you need to face your fears.

The Goblin Emperor

Maia finds himself the next in line for the throne when his father and brothers are unexpectedly killed. Forgotten and overlooked, he must find a way to assert himself into the intrigues and schemes of the Imperial Court and prove himself to be a leader even while surrounded by those who would undermine him. 

This book is subtle and clever, and felt somewhat like watching a game of chess between a master and a novice who no one expects to have the slightest chance. Some find it too slow for their taste, but to me it’s the difference between using the oven or a slow cooker. Give it time, it’s worth it.

For when you’re tired of being pushed around.

The Blue Sword

Harry Crewe goes to live with her relatives in Damar when she is captured by Corlath, the Hillfolk King, who abducts her based on a premonition he is reluctant to believe. Harry proves to be a critical player in the tense relations between her Homeland, the Damarians, and the Northeners.

Don’t let the old-school cover art dissuade you from giving this book a chance. McKinley is an incredible storyteller, and if you have a restless spirit that yearns for adventure you’ll love Harry’s journey from shy, awkward teen to legendary warrior.

For when you need to believe you’re strong enough.

Enders Game

Ender Wiggin is only a child when he is recruited to join the militaristic elite group being trained via computer simulated games in preparation for an epic battle with an alien race.

If you’ve only seen the movie, it’s time to experience the real thing. If you haven’t seen the movie, I can’t emphasize enough how important it is that you read the book first. 

For when you need to find a way to heal and forgive.

Bear and the Nightingale

When Vasya’s household is pushed into forgoing the rituals that honor their domovoi – or household spirit-guardians – she must protect her family from the unintended consequences.

Set it medieval Russia, the Bear and the Nightingale is a gorgeous story that feels like a classic fairytale. Vasya’s courage, loyalty, and wild spirit made this one of my favorite books in 2017.

For when you need to push past people’s disapproval to do what you believe is right.

Sabriel

Sabriel is the daughter of the Abhorsen, the anti-necromancer who maintains order in the Old Kingdom where Free Magic and older magic called the Charter still exist. When her father goes missing, Sabriel decides to cross the border into the Old Kingdom to find him before the unbalance between their two worlds becomes too great.  

This is a darkly enchanting series, but Sabriel can be read as a stand-alone novel. While the “undead” in this book are technically zombies, it doesn’t read like a zombie book at all. With the Abhorsen’s seven singing bells, the Charter stones, and the nine gates along the river of death, Nix creates a magical, unforgettable world. 

For when you need to overcome insurmountable odds. 

Golden Compass

Lyra’s world is shaken up when children begin disappearing, rumored to be taken to the North by “the Gobblers.” When one of her friend’s goes missing, Lyra and her animal familiar embark on an adventure to find him and solve the mystery, and encounter more along the way.

Another great book made into a pretty good movie that definitely should be read first. After reading this trilogy many years ago, I recently learned that Pullman is launching a new trilogy as a follow-up to this series. I’m just starting it now and you can read my review of The Book of Dust in a few weeks. 

For when you need to remember the importance of finding strength in friendships.

So there you have it, 13 books that I love that you can turn to for strength and inspiration. What stories do you recommend? Feel free to share some of your favorites in the comments section below. 😊