As a lover of fiction, I’m always on the lookout for unique and undiscovered stories that can take me on a journey like never before. While many popular books and series exude their charm, there’s something special about a hidden gem that unexpectedly captures your heart and imagination. Here are some of my personal favorite unheard of premises that I believe every fiction enthusiast should take a chance on.

The Library of the Unwritten 📚

The Library of the Unwritten is a fantasy novel written by A.J. Hackwith that explores the dark corners of a library that contains all the unfinished books in the world. This premise alone intrigued me, and the story did not disappoint. The library’s caretaker, Claire, must leave her domain to retrieve a book that has been taken by a character from a story, and in doing so, she discovers what lies beyond the boundaries of her own world. Hackwith’s writing is beautifully detailed and immerses you in a world that is both strange and captivating.

A cartoonish drawing of a mystical library with a librarian holding a book.

Circe 🧝‍♀️

Taking a different twist on Greek mythology, Madeline Miller’s Circe tells the story of the infamous witch who turned Odysseus’s men into pigs. As the daughter of Helios, Circe is scorned by her family until she discovers her own powers of witchcraft. Miller’s portrayal of Circe is both complex and compelling, making the reader empathize with a character who has always been deemed the villain. This novel is a must-read for anyone interested in ancient myths and female empowerment.

A drawing of a woman with long hair and a crown made of leaves in a garden.

The Golem and the Jinni 💫

Set in 19th-century New York City, The Golem and the Jinni is a blend of historical fiction and magical realism. The story revolves around a golem, created by a Polish Jewish man named Schaalman, who was brought to life by a magician. The golem’s path crosses with a jinni, who was released after being trapped in a flask for over a thousand years. The two develop an unlikely friendship as they navigate a world that is alien to them both. Helene Wecker’s writing is atmospheric and evokes the sights and sounds of a bustling city.

Two mythical creatures, a golem and a jinni, standing against a background of a New York cityscape.

Vita Nostra 🧑‍🎓

Vita Nostra is a Ukrainian fantasy novel from authors Marina and Sergey Dyachenko, translated into English by Julia Meitov Hersey. The story follows Sasha, a young girl who is mysteriously accepted into a college for gifted students. However, the curriculum is unlike anything she’s ever seen before, and her studies seem to be affecting her in strange ways. As the story progresses, Sasha is forced to confront the truth about herself and her abilities. The writing is surreal and thought-provoking, making it a must-read for fans of philosophical fiction.

A drawing of a girl standing in front of a wall of equations and symbols.

The Ten Thousand Doors of January 🚪

Alix E. Harrow’s debut novel The Ten Thousand Doors of January is a charming and magical story that follows January Scaller, a young girl who finds a mysterious book that opens doors to other worlds. The novel is filled with colorful characters and enchanting descriptions that will make you want to escape to other dimensions. With themes of freedom and self-discovery, this book will resonate with readers of all ages.

A drawing of a girl with a book in her hand, standing in front of a glowing portal to another world.

These five books are just a taste of the many hidden gems waiting to be discovered in the world of fiction. I hope this list has inspired you to venture off the beaten path and explore new and exciting premises that will capture your heart and imagination.

A cartoonish drawing of a stack of books, with a person sitting on top reading one.