The Queen’s Poisoner by Jeff Wheeler

 This book is the first in a series and follows a young boy who becomes the hostage of a dangerous ruler after his family is betrayed.

 

Graceling by Kristin Cashore

 This book is the first in a YA fantasy series and follows a young girl with the ability to kill with her bare hands as she tries to navigate court intrigue and deadly enemies.

 

The Black Gryphon by Mercedes Lackey and Larry Dixon

 This book follows the story of a young girl who discovers she has the ability to communicate with animals and a powerful gryphon who becomes her companion.

 

The Kingkiller Chronicle by Patrick Rothfuss

 This series follows the story of an orphaned boy who becomes a powerful wizard and navigates a dangerous world filled with magic and political machinations.

 

The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson

 This book is the first in the Stormlight Archive series and follows a diverse cast of characters in a world torn apart by war, magic, and ancient legends.