The Clean Green House Blog: YA Fantasy with Fierce Female Protagonists

Young female protagonists are taking over the stage of YA fantasy. Just a decade ago, it wasn’t uncommon to barely have a female character mention in a book. But not anymore. Brave, complex young women fill our book shelves. Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games with her bow and arrow, skyrocketed the popularity of archery. And Rey from Star Wars first appeared bravely salvaging for parts in an unforgiving environment, her quarterstaff in tow. So warrior-type female characters are enjoying their day in the sun. If you like reading about fierce female protagonists who aren’t afraid to wield a weapon, here are three fantasy books to consider:

The Traitor’s Game

The Traitor’s Game is a YA (young adult) fantasy. In this story, one kingdom dominates the region by cruel subjugation of its people. A high ranking nobleman’s daughter, Kestra Dallisor, is hidden away to keep her safe from ransom and the machinations of court. However, when she returns to her manor as a young woman, she’s kidnapped before her protectors realize the clever ruse at play. Fortunately, Kestra pushed for training from her vigilant, military protector in the harsh lava fields. She’s not the delicate flower they assumed she’d be. This is perfect for fans of The Selection because of the quick pace and the romance. However, this “princess” won’t hide in a closet during the battle — she’s leading the fray.

The Hundredth Queen

The final book in the The Hundredth Queen trilogy just released, so this bestselling series is a perfect binge-read. In this series, an all-female school raises young women as warriors. They learn to use many weapons, including chakrams. Kalinda suffers from a mysterious illness, but despite her pain she’s fierce with her preferred weapon, a sling-shot. The first book leads to an epic, heart-wrenching battle among the queens of the court in Hunger Games fashion. Find out what the warrior-trained Kalinda unleashes on the kingdom. This book is perfect for readers who like romance and adventure!

The Maid’s War

For readers who love a tragic underdog story, grab The Maid’s War. This all-in-one story is set in the Kingfountain world of magic where we learn the truth about the legendary Maid of Donremy. Her story is revealed by her closest ally while he’s held captive in a prison long after her death. This book is light on romance, but moves with deep rivers of emotion and purpose. You’ll also love that the Maid wears armor and wields a proper broadsword — for a petite young woman, she’s physically strong and mentally sharp! And as a bonus, if you like the Kingfountain world, all seven other novels in the series are now available (all recently published and ready to binge on). Grab the salty or chocolate snack of your choice. And tissues. Bring the tissues!

Fierce Female Protagonists:

As I perused my favorite fantasy novels, I found that most of the stories I’ve read featured women who fought using words, as diplomats or using subterfuge. Also, occasionally the female characters used their fists, poisons, or magical powers. And I love these stories. But I found fewer female characters were masters of weaponry. So please share a *stellar* novel or two featuring a fierce female protagonist warrior!