Thousand Steps into Night

Like Traci Chee's work, this novel features a rich, East Asian-inspired world where a young woman must navigate a curse and a dangerous journey. It captures the same blend of folklore, magical adventure, and personal transformation that makes Thousand Steps into Night so compelling.

This book shares the lyrical prose and atmospheric world-building found in Chee's writing, focusing on young women reclaiming their agency against supernatural forces. It balances a sense of wonder with high stakes and complex cultural dynamics.

Fans of Miuko's journey will appreciate the whimsical yet high-stakes quest through a spirit realm rooted in mythology. Both stories emphasize the importance of fate, sacrifice, and a heroine who must find her voice in a world of gods and monsters.

Set in a world inspired by Japanese folklore, this adventure features a protagonist on a perilous quest involving demons and ancient magic. The dynamic between the leads and the episodic, travel-based structure mirrors the pacing of Thousand Steps into Night.

While more aggressive in tone, this book shares the theme of a young woman defying societal expectations and patriarchal structures in a fantasy setting. It will appeal to readers who enjoyed Miuko's internal struggle with her own power and her refusal to remain a 'good' girl.

This novel features a lyrical, atmospheric writing style and a protagonist who can see spirits that others cannot. It echoes Chee's exploration of the tension between old traditions and changing worlds, centered on a resilient female lead.

This story focuses on a girl whose touch is poisonous, mirroring Miuko's struggle with her demonic transformation. It explores themes of monstrosity, agency, and the grey areas between being a hero and a villain.

Like Thousand Steps into Night, this book features a young woman thrust into a world of ancient magic and corruption. It shares a similar focus on the relationship between humans and the natural/supernatural world, told through a distinct narrative voice.

This East Asian-inspired fantasy explores the darker side of ambition and transformation. Readers who were fascinated by the 'demon' aspect of Miuko's journey will find this exploration of a protagonist's descent into darkness and power intriguing.

Though aimed at a slightly younger audience, this classic features the same episodic quest structure and heavy reliance on folklore and storytelling. It captures the 'vibe' of a magical journey through a land of myth that fans of Chee's work often seek.