10 Must-Read YA Historical Fantasy Books

by L.T. Ellis | Jun 30, 2023 | Must Reads

10 Must-Read YA Historical Fantasy Books

Calling all bookworms and fantasy enthusiasts! If you’re a fan of captivating tales that blend history with a touch of magic, then you’re in for a treat. In this blog post, we’ve curated a list of 10 must-read YA historical fantasy books that will transport you to enchanting worlds filled with adventure, romance, and mystique. From epic battles fought in ancient kingdoms to secret societies hiding amidst the shadows of historical events, these novels offer a delightful escape into the past, sprinkled with a dash of the extraordinary. So, grab a cozy blanket, curl up with your favorite reading spot, and prepare to embark on a journey through time and imagination with these captivating page-turners!

1. The Book Thief By: Markus Zusak

In the heart of Nazi Germany, where death itself is relentless, Liesel embarks on a journey that will change her life forever. It all begins when she uncovers a hidden treasure buried beneath the snow: The Gravedigger’s Handbook. This accidental act of book thievery ignites a passion for words within her, as Liesel dives into a forbidden world of literature.

Guided by her foster father, a compassionate accordion player, Liesel delves into the realm of reading, finding solace and escape within the pages she so boldly acquires. With a fearless determination, she pilfers books from Nazi book burnings and the forbidden library of the mayor’s wife. But in these treacherous times, danger lurks around every corner.

When Liesel’s foster family takes in a Jewish refugee, her world both expands and contracts in unimaginable ways. As the war rages on, Liesel finds herself caught between love, loss, and the power of words. With mesmerizing prose that sears with emotion, acclaimed author Markus Zusak weaves a timeless tale that will captivate readers for generations to come. “The Book Thief” stands as a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit amidst the darkest of times.

2. The Kingdom of Back By: Marie Lu

“The Kingdom of Back” by Marie Lu is a captivating YA historical fantasy novel that follows the life of Nannerl Mozart, the older sister of the renowned composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Set in eighteenth-century Europe, Nannerl possesses an extraordinary gift for music and dreams of leaving a lasting legacy as a composer. However, societal norms and her father’s oppressive expectations confine her to performing until she becomes of marriageable age.

As Nannerl’s aspirations dwindle over time, her younger brother’s musical talents soar, overshadowing her own. Just when all hope seems lost, a mysterious stranger arrives from a magical realm, presenting Nannerl with an enticing proposition. He offers to grant her deepest wish, but the price she must pay could be devastating.

Marie Lu weaves together a tale of ambition, sibling rivalry, and the allure of forbidden possibilities. Readers are transported to a world where music and magic intertwine, exploring Nannerl’s struggle to find her own voice and define her identity within a restrictive society. “The Kingdom of Back” immerses readers in a vivid historical backdrop while infusing it with elements of fantasy, creating a mesmerizing story of sacrifice, determination, and the power of dreams.

3. Long as the Lemon Trees Grow By: Zoulfa Katouh

As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa Katouh is a gripping YA historical fantasy set against the backdrop of the Syrian conflict. Salama Kassab, once a pharmacy student leading a normal life, now finds herself volunteering at a hospital in Homs, witnessing the daily influx of wounded victims. Fearful for her sister-in-law Layla, who is about to give birth, Salama yearns to escape the country. Her anxiety takes physical form in the shape of Khawf, an imagined companion who constantly shadows her, determined to protect her.

Caught between her loyalty to her country and her desire to survive, Salama is faced with a difficult decision. She must navigate the perils of bullets, bombs, and moral dilemmas, all while questioning her resolve to leave home. When she unexpectedly encounters the boy she was meant to meet, her determination wavers. As the story unfolds, Salama starts to perceive the events around her not merely as a war, but as a revolution, prompting her to reconsider her role and decide how she will contribute to Syria’s fight for freedom.

As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow explores themes of courage, loyalty, and the internal struggle of a young woman amidst the chaos of conflict. Salama’s journey forces her to confront her fears, grapple with her convictions, and ultimately discover her own voice in the fight for justice.

4. Stalking Jack the Ripper By Kerri Maniscalco’s

In Kerri Maniscalco’s “Stalking Jack the Ripper,” readers are introduced to Audrey Rose Wadsworth, a seventeen-year-old girl born into a life of wealth and privilege. However, behind the facade of social teas and elegant dresses, Audrey Rose harbors a forbidden secret. Against her father’s strict rules and the pressures of society, she secretly indulges in studying the macabre field of forensic medicine in her uncle’s laboratory.

Audrey’s fascination with forensic medicine takes a thrilling turn when a series of brutal murders, attributed to the infamous Jack the Ripper, grips the city. Drawn by her insatiable curiosity, Audrey becomes involved in the investigation, determined to uncover the truth. As she delves deeper into the dark and dangerous world of a serial killer, her relentless pursuit of answers brings her perilously close to her own sheltered existence.

Set against the backdrop of Victorian London, “Stalking Jack the Ripper” combines elements of historical fiction, fantasy, and mystery to create an enthralling tale. Audrey Rose’s determination to challenge societal norms and pursue her passions while confronting the terrifying presence of a notorious murderer forms the backbone of this gripping young adult novel. Maniscalco’s vivid storytelling and atmospheric descriptions immerse readers in a world of intrigue, danger, and a young woman’s fight for independence and justice.

5. Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross

In “Divine Rivals” by Rebecca Ross, the gods have awakened from centuries of slumber and plunged into war once again. Amidst this chaos, Iris Winnow, an eighteen-year-old aspiring journalist, yearns to keep her family together amidst personal struggles. Her mother’s addiction consumes her, while her brother remains missing on the front lines.

Determined to secure the coveted columnist promotion at the Oath Gazette, Iris finds solace in writing heartfelt letters to her absent brother. To her surprise, these letters vanish through her wardrobe, only to reappear in the possession of Roman Kitt, a rival journalist who exudes an icy and captivating aura.

Intrigued by Iris’s heartfelt words, Roman responds anonymously, setting off a correspondence that develops into a deep and magical connection. As Iris navigates the perilous journey to find her brother and unravels the mysteries surrounding the gods’ war, she realizes that her connection with Roman holds the key to her destiny. Together, they must confront the horrors of the battlefield and the wrath of the gods to ensure the future of humanity and the preservation of their newfound love.

“Divine Rivals” combines elements of historical fantasy, forbidden romance, and a high-stakes battle between deities, delivering a captivating tale of love, sacrifice, and the power of human connection in the face of divine turmoil.

6. Mirror Girls By: Kelly McWilliams

In Mirror Girls by Kelly McWilliams, the lives of twin sisters Charlie Yates and Magnolia Heathwood take separate paths after their parents are lynched for crossing racial boundaries. Charlie becomes a Black organizer in Harlem during the Civil Rights Movement, while Magnolia, unaware of her true racial heritage, inherits a cotton plantation in Georgia.

Magnolia’s idyllic existence is shattered when she learns the truth about her family’s past. Mysteriously, her reflection vanishes from mirrors, a sign of a curse that plagues her. Meanwhile, Charlie’s grandmother falls ill, and her dying wish is for Charlie to bring Magnolia, her long-lost granddaughter, back to Georgia. Unaware of the curse, Charlie embarks on a journey into the Deep South, a land haunted by the ghosts of its slave-holding history and plagued by Jim Crow segregation.

The sisters reunite in the haunted town of Eureka, Georgia, where ghosts from centuries past linger and dangers lurk behind every mirror. Despite their stark differences, the sisters must rely on each other to confront the haunting shadows of the past, break the curse that binds them, and uncover the true essence of sisterhood in a land divided by race.

Mirror Girls is a captivating YA historical fantasy novel that explores themes of racial identity, the legacy of slavery, and the enduring power of sisterly bonds.

7. Immortality: A Love Story By:Dana Schwartz

In “Immortality: A Love Story” by Dana Schwartz, the protagonist Hazel Sinnett finds herself isolated and questioning the reality of her past experiences involving immortality and the mysterious vial she encountered. With uncertainty surrounding the fate of her love interest, Jack, Hazel focuses on her duties as a physician and caretaker of Hawthornden Castle, which is slowly deteriorating.

However, Hazel’s life takes an unexpected turn when she is arrested after saving a life. Just when it seems like she will be imprisoned indefinitely, a message arrives, offering her a unique opportunity. Princess Charlotte, the ailing granddaughter of King George III, specifically requests Hazel as her personal physician. Reluctantly drawn into the world of courtly glamour and concealed secrets, Hazel discovers a clandestine group called the Companions to the Death, comprising enigmatic and brilliant individuals.

As Hazel becomes more entangled with the intrigues of the British court, she realizes that the future of her career as a surgeon is not the only thing in jeopardy. Sinister forces are at play within the monarchy, and Hazel may hold the key to setting things right. In this thrilling tale of romance and treachery, Hazel’s journey intertwines with the fate of the kingdom itself, and she must navigate a web of deceit to protect what she holds dear.

8. The Gilded Wolves by Roshani Chokshi

In Roshani Chokshi’s “The Gilded Wolves,” set in 1889, the city of Paris is undergoing a transformative period of industrialization and power. The Exposition Universelle has revitalized the streets while unearthing ancient secrets. Séverin Montagnet-Alarie, a treasure-hunter and wealthy hotelier, is skilled at uncovering dark truths in this changing landscape. However, when the influential Order of Babel coerces him into assisting them on a mission, Séverin discovers a treasure he never anticipated: his true inheritance.

To locate the ancient artifact that the Order seeks, Séverin assembles an unconventional group of experts. Among them is an engineer burdened by debt, a historian exiled from his homeland, a dancer with a mysterious past, and a loyal comrade. Together, they embark on a journey to explore the enigmatic heart of Paris, a realm filled with both darkness and opulence. What awaits them there has the potential to reshape history itself, but their survival hangs in the balance.

“The Gilded Wolves” intertwines elements of historical fiction, fantasy, and adventure, capturing the essence of a society on the brink of change. Chokshi’s vivid storytelling paints a picture of a Paris brimming with secrets, where a group of unlikely heroes must navigate treacherous paths to fulfill their mission and discover their own destinies.

9. Foul Lady Fortune By: Chloe Gong

“Foul Lady Fortune” by Chloe Gong takes readers back to 1931 Shanghai, where Rosalind Lang, a young woman with extraordinary abilities, navigates a world filled with intrigue and danger. Having been saved from death through a mysterious experiment, Rosalind is now unable to age, sleep, or die, making her a formidable assassin for her country, operating under the codename Fortune.

However, as the Japanese Imperial Army threatens Shanghai, Rosalind’s mission takes a new turn. A string of murders rocks the city, with suspicions falling on the Japanese. Rosalind is tasked with infiltrating foreign society to uncover the truth behind the terror plot and protect her people.

To maintain her cover, Rosalind must pose as the wife of Orion Hong, a Nationalist spy. Despite their clashing personalities, Rosalind and Orion must work together. But as they delve deeper into the conspiracy, they discover that there are darker secrets and horrors lurking beneath the surface.

“Foul Lady Fortune” blends historical elements with fantasy and mystery, offering readers a captivating tale of espionage, betrayal, and the search for redemption. As Rosalind and Orion uncover the layers of deception, they are confronted with the true extent of the danger they face,

10. Sky in the Deep By: Adrienne Young

In Sky in the Deep by Adrienne Young, seventeen-year-old Eelyn is a fierce warrior belonging to the Aska clan. Her life revolves around the ancient rivalry between her clan and the Riki clan, where she fights alongside her fellow Aska clansmen. Her existence is defined by brutality and survival until the unimaginable happens on the battlefield—she spots her long-lost brother fighting for the enemy, the same brother she witnessed die five years ago.

Betrayed by her brother, Eelyn finds herself stranded in the treacherous mountains with the Riki during the harsh winter. In this foreign Riki village, every resident is a potential adversary, and each battle scar may have been inflicted by her own hand. When the village is raided by a merciless clan believed to be only a legend, Eelyn becomes even more determined to return to her cherished family.

To achieve this, she must reluctantly place her trust in Fiske, her brother’s friend, who views her as a threat. Their only hope lies in the seemingly impossible task of uniting the warring clans against their common enemy, or risk facing annihilation one by one. Fueled by her unwavering love for her clan and an unexpected blossoming affection for Fiske, Eelyn must confront her preconceived notions of loyalty and family while daring to have faith in the very people she has spent her life despising.

Up Next: My Top 15 All Time YA Fantasy Reads

The Calling by L.C. Pye Book Review

by L.T. Ellis | Jun 27, 2023 | Indie Authors, YA / Teen Book Reviews

The Calling Book Review

Hey there, fellow bookworms! Today, I’ve got a real treat for you. Picture this: a slow burn romance, a ragtag found family, an outcast FMC, a grumpy male love interest, some Robin Hood vibes, and an epic adventure quest. Intrigued? Well, hold on to your bookmarks because “The Calling” by L.C. Pye is about to take you on one heck of a ride!

First things first, let’s talk tropes. Now, I know what you’re thinking. Tropes can sometimes feel as predictable as your cat knocking over a glass of water. But fear not, my friends, because Pye manages to sprinkle these tropes with just the right amount of pizzazz to keep you hooked. We’ve got a slow-burn romance that will make your heart flutter like a caffeinated butterfly. Found family? Check! Because nothing warms the heart quite like a group of misfits coming together to save the day.

Our protagonist, Taila Caffrey, is relatable in all the right ways. Her flaws are captivating and her courage is infectious. Talia’s got secrets galore, and she won’t hesitate to protect her loved ones at all costs. Talk about loyalty!

But hold your bookmarks tight, because here’s the real gem: Gil. Ah, Gil, my dear fellow readers, is the cherry on top of this literary sundae. Quick-witted and charming, he’s like the love child of Heath Ledger in “A Knight’s Tale” and Peeta Melark. I’m telling you, this guy deserves all the good and bright things in life. Prepare to swoon, ladies and gents!

Now, let’s talk about the plot. In the land of Landore, people are divided into five callings, living in disunity and isolation. Talia sees her chance at belonging in choosing one of these callings. But when her best friend, Jules, is kidnapped on the eve of their calling ceremony, everything goes topsy-turvy. Talia ditches her shot at acceptance and becomes a fugitive, hiding her true self from the world. As if that weren’t enough, she stumbles upon a group of seven strangers who turn her world upside down, revealing more secrets than she ever imagined.

If you loved books like “The Selection,” “Divergent,” and “The Remnant Chronicles,” then “The Calling” should be on your reading list ASAP. Pye weaves a coming-of-age story that’s a quick and easy read that will leave you yearning for more.

Check Out L.C. Pye’s Website for more updates

Daughter Of The Moon Goddess Book Review

Strange the Dreamer Book Review

by L.T. Ellis | Jun 22, 2023 | YA / Teen Book Reviews

Strange the Dreamer Book Review:

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Tropes: Bittersweet Romance, Dreamy Writing, Multi POV, Magical City, Gods, and Goddess

Hey bookworms! I have an enchanting tale to share with you today that will transport you to a world of dreams and mysteries. If you’re ready to embark on an extraordinary adventure, then let me introduce you to “Strange the Dreamer” by Laini Taylor!

In this mesmerizing story, we meet Lazlo Strange, a war orphan and junior librarian who has always been captivated by the legendary lost city of Weep. Since he was just a young child, he has been consumed by the desire to uncover the secrets hidden within its walls. And when an incredible opportunity arises to join forces with the renowned Godslayer and a band of legendary warriors, Lazlo must seize the chance to pursue his dreams or risk losing them forever.

But the mysteries of Weep run deeper than Lazlo could have ever imagined. What happened two hundred years ago to isolate the city from the world? What exactly did the Godslayer vanquish that was once considered a god? And who is the enigmatic blue-skinned goddess who haunts Lazlo’s dreams? These questions ignite a breathtaking journey filled with wonder, danger, and an undeniable sense of magic.

As you delve into the pages of “Strange the Dreamer,” you’ll find yourself entangled in a web of ancient legends and fantastical encounters. Laini Taylor’s exquisite prose will transport you to a realm where dreams and reality entwine, blurring the lines between what is possible and what lies beyond imagination. Prepare to lose yourself in a world where dreams choose the dreamer, defying the boundaries of ordinary life.

This book will keep you turning pages long into the night, yearning for answers and eager to explore the depths of Weep alongside Lazlo. The richly developed characters and the intricate tapestry of Taylor’s storytelling will leave you breathless and craving for more. And remember, dear reader, even when the gods are gone, their presence can still be felt in the echoes of a forgotten world.

So grab your favorite blanket, brew a cup of tea, and let “Strange the Dreamer” whisk you away to a realm where dreams hold unimaginable power and where the greatest adventures await those who dare to dream.

Have you read “Strange the Dreamer”? What dreams have chosen you lately? Share your thoughts and let’s embark on this magical journey together!

P.S. Lazlo is Bae. Periodt.

Daughter Of The Moon Goddess Book Review

6 Steps to Successfully Run a Bookstagram Giveaway

by L.T. Ellis | Jun 22, 2023 | Bookstagram

6 Steps to Successfully Run a Bookstagram Giveaway

If you’re reading this blog post, then I’m going to guess that you are a Bookstagrammer like me.

Running a Bookstagram giveaway can be a great way to promote your book and engage with your followers. But how do you make sure your giveaway is successful? Follow these 6 Steps to Successfully Run a Bookstagram Giveaway to create a fun and engaging giveaway that will increase your book’s visibility and attract new readers.

Step 1: Determine the goal of the giveaway

The first step to running a successful Bookstagram giveaway is to determine the goal and prize of your giveaway. Are you trying to increase your book’s visibility? Attract new followers? Engage with your current followers? Once you have a clear goal in mind, choose a prize that will appeal to your target audience. This could be a copy of your book, a book-related item, or even a gift card to a bookstore. Make sure the prize is something that your followers will be excited about and motivated to enter for.

Step 2: Choose a prize

The prize is the most crucial aspect of the giveaway. It should be something that book lovers would love to win, such as a signed copy of a book, a gift card to a bookstore, or bookish merchandise. Ensure the prize is relevant to the theme of your Bookstagram account.

Step 3: Determine the rules

Next, determine the rules of the giveaway. You could require participants to follow your Bookstagram account, like the giveaway post, and tag a friend in the comments. To make the giveaway more engaging, you could also ask participants to share their favorite book or why they love reading. Remember to specify the deadline for entries.

Step 4: Protect yourself and followers from scammers

Bookstagram Giveaways have become a popular way to engage with followers and spread literary joy. However, amidst the genuine enthusiasm and camaraderie, it is crucial to remain vigilant against potential scammers who may attempt to exploit the trust and excitement surrounding these events. To safeguard your Bookstagram giveaways and protect yourself and your followers, it is essential to be aware of certain warning signs. Scammers often utilize slight variations in usernames or employ generic profile pictures. When organizing a giveaway, consider implementing measures to enhance transparency and trust. Clearly state the rules, eligibility criteria, and prize details in your posts, ensuring participants have a comprehensive understanding of the event. Additionally, encourage your followers to report any suspicious accounts or activities, and promptly address concerns raised by participants. By promoting an open and honest environment, you can foster a sense of security and discourage scammers from targeting your Bookstagram community.

Here’s an example of what my Giveaway Write-Up looked like when I ran my Six of Crows Giveaway. You can see how I clearly stated the rules and warned my followers about scammers.

🚨Six of Crows Giveaway 🚨

QOTD: Who’s your favorite character from Six of Crows?

I’m so excited to launch my first Bookstagram Giveaway. Since I’m such a huge fan of the Grishaverse, and with Season 2 of Shadow and Bone premiering on March 16th, I wanted to give back to all my wonderful followers and fellow Six of Crows fans. I’ve spent the last few months curating the ultimate Six of Crow’s prize bundle from some amazing Esty Shops. (I’ll include all of the shop names in the comments in case you want to check them out.)

𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫: The giveaway form link is in my bio. It will have instructions, ways to earn extra entries, and all the rules 😍.

𝙎𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙡𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙧!

The winner will receive:

~One Special Edition copy of Six of Crows

~One Special Edition copy of Crooked Kingdom

~Six of Crows Bookmark Set

~Milo Goat Emotional Support Enamel Pin

~Ketterdam Candle

~Oh, I do love a challenge Jesper sticker

~You’re better than waffles Nina sticker

~We Never Stop Fighting Sticker

~Plus Two bonus Stickers: My Ghost Won’t Associate with your Ghost Sticker & The Dregs Sticker

~6×8 The Dregs Art Print x NastaDraws

~Dirtyhands (SoC) Enamel Pin

~The Wraith (SoC) Enamel Pin

~Six of Crows – Book Overlays

Grand Total of 24 Items.

This giveaway is open to US ONLY. Must have a US address to win. 16 and older. The giveaway closes on March 16th at 7 PM CST. This giveaway is not affiliated with Instagram.

The winner will be announced on this post, stories, and via email ONLY by me.

This is my only page. There will NOT be any other pages announcing or choosing a winner for ANY of my giveaways. This is completely free, and there is no purchase required. Beware of scammers!!

Good luck! No Mourners, No Funerals.

Step 5: Promote the bookstagram giveaway

Promotion is key to a successful giveaway. Post about the giveaway on your Bookstagram account, website, and other social media platforms. Use hashtags and mention the author or publisher of the book you’re promoting. Collaborate with other Bookstagrammers or book bloggers to reach a broader audience.

Step 6: Choose a winner and announce it

Once the deadline for entries has passed, choose a winner fairly. You could use a random generator tool or choose the best entry. Announce the winner on your Bookstagram account, website, and other social media platforms. You could also message the winner directly to notify them. After the giveaway, follow up with the winner to confirm their details and send them the prize. It’s also an excellent opportunity to thank everyone who participated and promote any future giveaways or book recommendations.

Bonus: Did you know there are giveaway softwares to help you tally entries?

If you’re ready to dive into the wild world of Bookstagram giveaways, I’ve got one last secret weapon to share with you: RafflePress. This bad boy is like having a personal assistant who magically counts all your entries while you sit back and sip your tea. Say goodbye to manual tallying and hello to efficiency! With RafflePress, you’ll be saving precious time, avoiding those dreaded finger cramps from counting endless comments, and gaining some serious giveaway guru status. Trust me, it’s the ultimate sidekick in your quest to spread bookish joy.

In conclusion, hosting a Bookstagram giveaway is a fantastic way to increase engagement and followers. Remember to determine the goal, choose a relevant prize, set the rules, promote the giveaway, choose a winner fairly, and follow up with the winner. With these steps, your Bookstagram giveaway is sure to be a success.

Hope these 6 Steps to Successfully Run a Bookstagram Giveaway are helpful!

Up Next: Why you might need a writing coach

How to Write an INFJ Character

by L.T. Ellis | Jun 13, 2023 | Character Creation

How to Write an INFJ Character (Writing an INFJ Character)

Series: The Psychology of Character Creation

As an INFJ myself, I’ve noticed a recurring trend in literature and media where INFJ characters are depicted as all-knowing, level-headed mentors who seem to have it all figured out. Unfortunately, this portrayal perpetuates a misconception that INFJs are perfect characters, which couldn’t be farther from the truth. In reality, INFJs are complex individuals with their own struggles and imperfections. In this blog post, we will explore the nuances of writing an authentic INFJ character, one that reflects the true essence of this personality type.

Understanding the INFJ Personality:

INFJ stands for Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, and Judging—the rarest of the sixteen Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) personality types. INFJs are known as the rarest of the sixteen Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) personality types, making up less than 1% of the population. They possess a rich inner world filled with intricate thoughts, emotions, and ideas. INFJs are compassionate, intuitive, and have an uncanny ability to understand the motivations and desires of others. To write a convincing INFJ character, it is crucial to delve into their distinctive traits, motivations, and the way they interact with the world around them.

Complexities and Imperfections:

INFJs, like any other personality type, have their own set of complexities and imperfections. While they may have a deep understanding of human nature and possess strong intuition, they are not infallible. It is essential to portray their vulnerabilities, internal conflicts, and struggles in your writing. By doing so, you can create well-rounded characters that readers can relate to and root for.

The Struggle with Self-Neglect:

One common aspect of the INFJ personality is their tendency to prioritize the needs of others over their own. They are passionate about helping and aiding others, often neglecting their own well-being in the process. This self-sacrificing behavior can lead to burnout, both physically and emotionally. As a writer, you can explore this aspect by highlighting the internal struggle INFJs face when balancing their desire to make a difference with the need for self-care and self-fulfillment.

Embracing Depth and Introspection:

INFJs are known for their deep introspection and their ability to navigate complex emotions. They often question their own motivations and seek profound meaning in their actions. Incorporating this depth into your character can add layers of authenticity and relatability. Showcasing their internal monologues, thought processes, and moments of self-reflection will give readers a glimpse into the rich inner world of an INFJ character.

Relationships and Boundaries:

While INFJs are empathetic and compassionate, they also require healthy boundaries in their relationships. It is crucial to depict the struggles they face when balancing their desire to help others with the need for personal space and autonomy. Explore how they navigate and negotiate these boundaries, as it adds depth to their relationships and showcases their growth throughout the story.

Embracing Intuition:

As an INFJ, you possess a remarkable intuition that enables you to perceive underlying patterns, motivations, and emotions that may go unnoticed by others. When writing, tap into this intuitive nature by allowing yourself to explore and trust your instincts. Listen to the whispers of your inner voice, as it often holds the key to profound insights and original ideas that can breathe life into your writing.

Ethical Dilemmas:

INFJs are known for their strong moral compass and their inclination to do what is right. Introduce ethical dilemmas that challenge your INFJ character’s values, forcing them to confront difficult decisions. These situations will allow readers to witness their internal struggles and provide opportunities for growth and character development.

Internal Monologues:

INFJs have rich inner worlds, filled with thoughts, reflections, and introspection. Utilize internal monologues to give readers insight into their profound contemplations. This narrative technique can offer a deeper understanding of their motivations, fears, and aspirations, providing a more authentic portrayal of the INFJ character.

Balancing Idealism and Realism:

INFJs often possess a delicate balance between idealism and realism. While your idealistic tendencies allow you to envision a better world and inspire others through your writing, grounding your work in reality adds depth and relatability. Strive for a harmonious blend of your imaginative aspirations and the realities of the human condition. This combination will give your writing a sense of hope, while acknowledging the challenges and complexities of life.

Here are some attributes to add to your INFJ Characters:

Quiet and Reflective
Strongly principled
Prefer closure
Advocates for the weak
Meaningful Conversationalist
Overly empathetic
Dislikes Inauthenticity
Relationship driven
Sensitive to criticism
Values kindness over intelligence

Here are some INFJ Characters:

Jay Gatsby
Daenerys Targaryen
Richard Gansey iii
Atticus Finch
Aragorn
Jem Carstairs
Aslan
Joe Goldberg (Book)
Penelope Featherington

Conclusion:

Writing an INFJ character goes beyond the stereotypes often associated with this personality type. By embracing the complexities and imperfections of INFJs, you can create characters that are relatable, realistic, and multidimensional. Remember to incorporate their struggles with self-neglect, their depth and introspection, and their journey towards establishing healthy boundaries. By doing so, you will craft INFJ characters that resonate with readers on a profound level and challenge the misconceptions often surrounding this personality type.

Up Next: How to write an INTP Character

Want to learn more about the Meyers-Brigg 16 Personalities? Click Here