What are some recent book recommendations for fantasy fiction?

One great fantasy fiction book is 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien. It's a classic that takes you on an epic journey through Middle - earth, filled with hobbits, elves, dwarves, and powerful wizards. Another is 'A Song of Ice and Fire' series by George R.R. Martin. It has complex characters, political intrigue, and a richly detailed world. Also, 'Harry Potter' series by J.K. Rowling is a must - read. It follows the story of a young wizard, Harry, and his friends at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Some recent fantasy fictions are 'The Poppy War' trilogy. It's a dark and gritty take on Chinese history and mythology blended with epic fantasy. It has complex themes like war, power, and morality. Then there's 'Children of Blood and Bone' by Tomi Adeyemi. This book is set in a richly imagined African - inspired world with magic, adventure, and a strong female lead fighting against oppression. And 'The City We Became' by N.K. Jemisin, which is a really creative urban fantasy that personifies New York City as a living being.

One great recent YA literary fiction is 'The Poet X' by Elizabeth Acevedo. It's a powerful novel in verse that tells the story of a young girl finding her voice through slam poetry. Another is 'They Both Die at the End' by Adam Silvera. It presents a unique concept of a world where people are notified on the day they will die. And 'Darius the Great Is Not Okay' by Adib Khorram is also wonderful, exploring themes of identity and mental health for a Persian - American teen.

A recent addition to high fantasy is 'Mistborn' by Brandon Sanderson. The magic system in this series is unique and well - thought - out. It follows Vin, a street urchin who discovers she has special powers. The story is full of twists and turns, and the world is vast and filled with different cultures and factions.

One more recent good fiction book is 'Normal People' by Sally Rooney. It explores the relationship between two young people, Connell and Marianne, over several years. It delves into themes of class, love, and self - discovery in a very modern and relatable way.

A common characteristic is the blend of different genres. Recent fantasy books often mix with elements of romance, like in 'A Court of Silver Flames' by Sarah J. Maas. They also may incorporate historical or cultural elements. 'The Bear and the Nightingale' by Katherine Arden draws on Russian folklore and history. Another aspect is the exploration of mental health and inner struggles, as seen in some modern YA fantasy books.

The book 'Project Hail Mary' by Andy Weir is quite popular among recent fiction releases. It's a science - fiction story about an astronaut on a mission to save Earth. It has a great blend of science, adventure, and humor. Also, 'Mexican Gothic' by Silvia Moreno - Garcia is very popular. It combines elements of gothic horror with Mexican folklore and is set in a creepy old house in the Mexican countryside.

One trend in recent fantasy fiction is the exploration of different cultural mythologies. For example, books are drawing on African, Middle - Eastern, and Asian mythologies more often. Another trend is the subversion of traditional fantasy tropes. Instead of the typical knight in shining armor, we might see an anti - hero or a more complex hero figure. There's also a trend towards more diverse characters in terms of race, gender, and sexual orientation.

Recent winner Richard Powers with his book 'The Overstory'. It focuses on trees and the environment in a very unique way. It weaves together different stories of people whose lives are somehow connected to trees, and it's a really thought - provoking take on our relationship with nature.

I don't know what the book was about as the statement only tells that she recently read a fiction book. There's no information on the plot.