14 Books Like Never Look Back

Astrid enters a deadly race where the winner gains freedom, and the loser dies. As she competes, she uncovers dark secrets about her kingdom and her own identity in this dystopian fantasy.

Zane Obispo, a boy with a limp, discovers his connection to ancient Mayan gods and embarks on a quest to prevent an apocalypse, blending humor, adventure, and cultural mythology.

Magnus Chase, a homeless teen, discovers he's the son of a Norse god. After dying heroically, he embarks on a quest to prevent Ragnarok, blending Norse mythology with contemporary humor.

A retelling of the Odyssey, this novel follows Leto, a girl chosen as a sacrifice to the sea, and Mathias, the prince who rescues her. Together, they uncover dark secrets and confront vengeful gods.

In a world where Greek gods are hunted for their powers, Lore Perseous is drawn back into this deadly game, blending ancient mythology with modern-day action and adventure.

Loki, the Norse god of mischief, is punished by being trapped in the body of an 11-year-old boy. To regain his godhood, he must learn to be good, leading to humorous misadventures.

Greg Belmont discovers he's a dwarf in a world of mythical creatures. His attempts to fit into this new reality result in a series of humorous and chaotic adventures.

The Igiby siblings embark on an epic journey to uncover their true heritage and save their world from evil forces, blending rich storytelling with themes of courage and sacrifice.

A retelling of the Iliad from Patroclus's perspective, exploring his deep bond with Achilles amidst love, honor, and tragedy during the Trojan War, brought to life with lyrical prose.

Set in the aftermath of Ragnarok, this novel follows Eiric and Reggin, two young protagonists navigating a world of ancient magic and new alliances to survive and protect their people.

In a world where gladiators with elemental powers battle for their gods, Ash and Madoc, fighters from rival kingdoms, must decide whether to continue the cycle of violence or break free.

Teo, a semi-divine trans boy, competes in the Sunbearer Trials, a deadly competition inspired by Mexican mythology, where the winner brings honor, and the loser is sacrificed to refuel the sun.

Legendborn by Tracy Deonn is a contemporary fantasy novel that reimagines Arthurian legends. The story follows Bree Matthews, a 16-year-old girl who discovers a secret society of "Legendborn" students at UNC-Chapel Hill who hunt demons. As Bree uncovers the truth about her mother's death and her own magical heritage, she must decide where her loyalties lie in a centuries-old battle. The novel explores themes of identity, grief, and power.

A modern fantasy novel where ancient gods clash with new gods representing modern society. Shadow Moon, a former convict, becomes embroiled in this conflict while uncovering hidden forces shaping the world.