Ahmed's first novel is an escapist confection set in what he calls "the world of The Arabian Nights." Yes, it's medieval fantasy packed with badass Dervish ninjas, shape-shifting nomads and terrifying undead monsters; but it's also a smart, well-observed tale of corrupt regimes crumbling before a people's uprising like no other. Think of it as Lord of the Rings meets Arab Spring. Though Ahmed's medieval city of Dhamsawaat is full of magic, it's also realistic in ways you

—Annalee Newitz

Doctor Adoulla Makhslood is "the last real ghul hunter in the city of Dhamsawaat." He's almost retired: he's old, he's fat, his joints creak, and all he wants is a good cup of cardamom tea from his friend Yehyeh's teahouse.

But rebellion is roiling in Dhamsawaat as the corrupt ruler faces off against a charismatic crime lord. After an old flame's family is attacked by demons, the venerable Doctor ends up taking one last job.

Makhslood, his uptight young dervish sidekick Raseed,

—Petra Mayer