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Fathomfolk
by Eliza Chan
Step into Tiankawi, a sprawling, semi-submerged city where humans live in shining towers above, while the diverse fathomfolk — sirens, kelpies, and more — are relegated to the polluted waters below. Eliza Chan's Fathomfolk drops you into this vibrant yet deeply stratified world through the eyes of Mira, a half-siren captain trying to navigate the human-dominated border guard, and Nami, an exiled water dragon princess. This isn't just a magical adventure; it's a tense, politically charged story that makes you feel the constant pressure of systemic injustice and the slow burn of rebellion. It's for readers who appreciate rich, culturally-inspired world-building paired with sharp social commentary, exploring what happens when power imbalances reach a breaking point. Expect thought-provoking dilemmas, complex characters, and a compelling fight for change in a city on the brink.
10 Books similar to 'Fathomfolk'
If the intricate political landscape and the fight against social stratification in Fathomfolk resonated with you, then we have some excellent follow-up reads. We've curated this list for those who crave stories where magic and power dynamics collide within richly imagined urban settings, much like Tiankawi itself. You'll find strong female leads grappling with oppression and rebellion, whether they're navigating brutal gang politics, challenging imperial systems, or literally embodying the spirit of a city. These books all capture that blend of cultural clash, tense political maneuvering, and the deep desire for change that makes Fathomfolk so compelling.
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This novel shares the theme of marginalized groups struggling against an oppressive system in a unique, water-based world. Both books utilize multiple perspectives to build a high-stakes narrative centered on rebellion and identity.
by N.K. Jemisin
Fans of the vibrant, semi-submerged city of Tianhai will appreciate how Jemisin brings a city to life as a literal character. Both books tackle themes of prejudice and the fight for the soul of a diverse urban landscape.
by Tasha Suri
This book mirrors the focus on women navigating rigid social structures and the moral ambiguity of seeking power for change. It features a lush, culturally-inspired setting and deep exploration of political maneuvering.
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If you enjoyed the themes of systemic oppression and the 'fathomfolk' fighting for equality, this high-octane story offers a similar focus on dismantling unfair hierarchies. It features a fierce protagonist who refuses to be a pawn in a larger political game.
Set in a world divided by blood and class, this novel echoes the social stratification and 'us vs. them' mentality found in Fathomfolk. It follows characters from different social tiers as they become embroiled in a revolutionary plot.
This historical fantasy shares the lyrical writing style and the heavy focus on destiny and personal agency. Both books explore how individuals from marginalized backgrounds must transform themselves to survive in a hostile world.
by C.L. Clark
This book delves deep into the complexities of colonialism and the friction between different cultural identities, much like the interactions between humans and sea-folk. It features a tense relationship between two women on opposite sides of a conflict.
Like Fathomfolk, this is a multi-POV fantasy that excels at world-building and exploring the intersection of religion, politics, and ancient magic. It features a unique setting and characters who are driven by both duty and personal trauma.
This novel features a highly detailed magic system used to power a sprawling, corrupt city. Fans of the technical aspects of Tianhai's infrastructure and the heist-like pacing of certain plot points will find this very satisfying.
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