If you’re a fan of the musical Wicked – and let’s face it, who isn’t? – you’ll know the characters inside out and would love this list of books that is inspired by each of their distinct and memorable personalities. Whether you’re a romantic social butterfly like Glinda, a brave and outspoken leader like Elphaba or you just love a good morally grey character such as the Wizard – we’ve got a book recommendation for every kind of reader here.
Elphaba – fantasy reads with complex female protagonists
Elphaba, the protagonist of Wicked, is intelligent, passionate, and fiercely independent. She is misunderstood and judged for her green skin, but she remains determined and compassionate. These recommendations match with Elphaba’s strong sense of justice and desire to fight for the oppressed.
Iron Flame
In Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros, a fierce heroine, Violet Sorrengail, navigates a world of magic and political intrigue. As she battles formidable foes and uncovers hidden truths, her strength and resilience shine. The novel celebrates themes of empowerment, courage, and the indomitable spirit of strong female protagonists.
Song of Silver, Flame Like Night
In Song of Silver, Flame Like Night, by Amélie Wen Zhao, Lan, a strong and determined young woman, discovers her hidden powers in a world oppressed by a brutal regime. As she uncovers ancient secrets and fights for freedom, Lan’s journey highlights themes of resilience, identity, and the strength of female protagonists.
The Final Strife
In The Final Strife by Saara El-Arifi, Sylah, a strong and determined woman, navigates a world divided by blood color. Raised by rebels, she infiltrates the ruling class to spark a revolution. Themes of resilience, identity, and social justice are explored as Sylah fights against a brutal regime
Glinda – cheerful romances featuring ambitious and bubbly heroines
Glinda, in Wicked, is initially bubbly, popular, and somewhat superficial. As the story progresses, she reveals depth, kindness, and a genuine desire to do good. These book recommendations reflect her journey as a compassionate and wise woman with a deep sense of romance in all she does.
Off to the Races
In Off to the Races by Elsie Silver, Billie Black, a bubbly and talented horse trainer, clashes with her new boss, Vaughn Harding, as they work to save his family’s ranch. Their fiery dynamic evolves into a passionate romance, highlighting themes of resilience, love, and the power of second chances
Love, Theoretically
In Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood, bubbly theoretical physicist Elsie Hannaway juggles adjunct teaching and a side gig as a fake girlfriend. Her life gets complicated when she falls for Jack Smith, a rival physicist who once discredited her field. This STEMinist rom-com explores love, identity, and self-worth
Reel
In Reel by Kennedy Ryan, bubbly actress Neevah Saint gets her big break when director Canon Holt casts her in a Harlem Renaissance biopic. As they navigate the challenges of Hollywood and a forbidden romance, Neevah’s vibrant personality and determination shine through, highlighting themes of ambition, love, and resilience
Prince Fiyero – mystery/thrillers with charming, brave and complex protagonists
Prince Fiyero, in Wicked, starts as a carefree and charming playboy, indifferent to serious matters. However, he transforms into a more thoughtful and courageous individual. These thrilling mystery recommendations match with his growing sense of responsibility and his willingness to stand up for what he believes in.
This is Why We Lied
In This Is Why We Lied by Karin Slaughter, charming GBI investigator Will Trent and medical examiner Sara Linton find their honeymoon disrupted by a murder at a secluded lodge. As they unravel a web of lies among the guests, they must race against time to uncover the killer
The Chaos Agent
In The Chaos Agent by Mark Greaney, charming assassin Court Gentry, known as the Gray Man, is drawn out of hiding to stop a series of murders targeting AI experts. As he and his partner Zoya navigate deadly threats, they uncover a sinister plot involving autonomous weapons and global power struggles
Resurrection Walk
In Resurrection Walk by Michael Connelly, charming defense attorney Mickey Haller and his half-brother, retired detective Harry Bosch, work to exonerate a woman wrongfully convicted of killing her ex-husband. As part of the Lincoln Lawyer series, their quest for justice uncovers a web of corruption and deceit, highlighting themes of resilience and the fight against systemic injustice.
Boq – Romances with golden retriever heroes
Boq, in Wicked, is a kind-hearted and earnest Munchkin who harbours unrequited love for Glinda. Initially shy and eager to please, he becomes more determined as the story progresses. Boq’s journey matches with some of our favourite romance heroes with sweet and cheerful personalities.
Out on a Limb
In Out on a Limb by Hannah Bonam-Young, fiercely independent Win McNulty faces unexpected challenges after a one-night stand with the warm and funny Bo. As they navigate their evolving relationship and Win’s pregnancy, Bo’s supportive nature and their growing bond highlight themes of love, resilience, and acceptance
Take a Hint, Dani Brown
In Take a Hint, Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert, bubbly PhD student Dani Brown and the romance book loving security guard Zafir Ansari fake a relationship after a viral rescue video. As they navigate their faux romance, Zaf’s cinnamon roll personality and Dani’s guarded heart lead to unexpected love, highlighting themes of vulnerability and trust
Swift and Saddled
In Swift and Saddled by Lyla Sage, spirited cowgirl Tessa navigates life on her family’s ranch while dealing with unexpected challenges. Enter sweet ranch hand Jake, whose kindness and support help Tessa through tough times. Their blossoming romance highlights themes of love, resilience, and finding strength in each other.
Madam Morrible and The Wizard – Books with power-hungry villains that we love to hate!
Madam Morrible is manipulative, ambitious, and power-hungry. She uses her position to control others and further her own agenda. The Wizard, charming yet deceitful, hides his true nature behind a facade of benevolence. These book recommendations feature antagonists who embody the corrupting influence of power and the complexities of morality
Caraval
In Caraval by Stephanie Garber, sisters Scarlett and Tella Dragna enter a magical game run by the enigmatic Master Legend. As they navigate the game’s illusions and dangers, they uncover how Legend’s manipulative control over Caraval corrupts him, revealing the dark side of power and its impact on leaders
Frank Herbert’s Dune: The Graphic Novel, Book 3: The Prophet
In Dune: The Graphic Novel, Book 3: The Prophet, Paul Atreides leads the Fremen in a final battle for Arrakis. As he grapples with his immense power, the corrupting influence becomes evident. Paul’s struggle highlights the dangers of absolute power and its potential to consume even the noblest leaders.
A Game of Thrones
Welcome to the Game of Thrones, where you win or you die…
In Game of Thrones, George R.R. Martin masterfully depicts the corrupting influence of power. As leaders like Cersei Lannister and Stannis Baratheon vie for control, they descend into ruthlessness and moral decay. This epic tale reveals the devastating consequences of ambition and the dark side of human nature in the quest for the Iron Throne.