Joan He is a Chinese American who grew up reading many of the great Chinese epics and legends, from which she draws inspiration for her debut novel. She lives in Pennsylvania.
Writing in Color (2023) Fourteen Writers on the Lessons We've Learned edited by Nafiza Azad and Melody Simpson
Joan He recommends
A Song to Drown Rivers (2024) Ann Liang "Ann Liang doesn't simply capture Xishi's indescribable beauty; she transcends it. An emotional odyssey that you'll want to read again and again-the first time with your heart in your throat, and every time after to savor each stolen look and word."
Darker by Four (2024) June CL Tan "June CL Tan excels at writing tactile worlds and ensemble casts, and nowhere is this more evident than in Darker by Four. If you ever wanted a book that reads like a comfort anime that also isn't afraid to skewer you with angst and explosive fight sequences, then look no further."
The Last Bloodcarver (2024) (Last Bloodcarver Duology, book 1) Vanessa Le "Has it all-a wonderfully unique magic system, heartfelt themes of legacy and diaspora, and obsession-worthy characters. I need more Nhika and Kochin now!"
Gorgeous Gruesome Faces (2023) (Gorgeous Gruesome Faces, book 1) Linda Cheng "Gorgeous Gruesome Faces is a thrill ride-but it's also so much more. If you peel back its slick and flawless skin, you'll find a nuanced portrait on fandom and idols, obsession and love, and how easily all lines can blur."
The Scarlet Alchemist (2023) (Scarlet Alchemist!, book 1) Kylie Lee Baker "I loved this book and you will too. The Scarlet Alchemist is perfectly paced, with dynamic prose, clever competition setups, and a protagonist who will leave you in awe of her resourcefulness. Kylie Lee Baker is an amazing storycrafter, and I would sell my soul for the sequel!"
Curious Tides (2023) (Drowned Gods Duology, book 1) Pascale Lacelle "Curious Tides sucks you in from page one with a fully realized universe that feels lived-in and otherworldly all at once. The story is alive with lore, and it's impossible not to be transported."
Nocturne (2023) Alyssa Wees "No one writes the way Alyssa Wees does, and Nocturne is her latest masterpiece. Like the ballet pulsing at its core, the story is both sinuous and quick on its feet, leading the reader through a labyrinth of emotions that range from the brightest passion to the darkest grief. A powerful, haunting read."
Violet Made of Thorns (2022) (Violet Made of Thorns, book 1) Gina Chen "Entrancing from start to finish. Violet is a one-of-a-kind protagonist, and Gina Chen has spun a consummate fairytale that will have readers gasping and squealing in turn."
Hotel Magnifique (2022) Emily J Taylor "Prepare to be spellbound. Once you enter the wildly imaginative world of Hotel Magnifique, you'll never want to leave. Emily J. Taylor has spun a gem of a story."
A Magic Steeped in Poison (2022) (Book of Tea, book 1) Judy I Lin "Beautifully written, from the setting to the magic system, A Magic Steeped in Poison is sure to enchant both fantasy lovers and cdrama aficionados. I'll be inhaling whatever Judy I. Lin brews up next."
Edgewood (2022) Kristen Ciccarelli "Edgewood has everything I love in a Kristen Ciccarelli book: lyrical prose, a romance that will hurt, and themes rooted in raw and intimate questions, making for a timeless tale."
Luminous (2021) Mara Rutherford "A beautiful, enchanting tale of a young woman coming into her own powers. Luminous shines as brightly as its heroine."
