If excellent, stylized world building supplemented by an interesting plot and fascinating characters is what you’re after they you’ll definitely want to pick up The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison. Maia, our goblin emperor, is a set aside son of the previous emperor. When his father and all his brothers die in an air ship accident he is left as the new ruler. He comes to the court untutored and finds the court a morass of political infighting, social expectations, and unspoken mores. He soon discovers that the accident that killed his predecessors was no accident and so must also battle against those who would remove him from his throne.
Addison creates a fascinating society, a likeable emperor, and a plot that pulls you in. Highly recommended for all who have a taste for fantasy.
