Living Canon

Locus Awards 2022: Complete list of winners

The 2022 Locus Awards showcased a year of remarkable creativity in speculative fiction, with winners spanning multiple genres and representing some of the field’s most exciting contemporary voices. The Locus Awards, widely considered one of fandom’s most prestigious honors, have long reflected what science fiction and fantasy readers genuinely love—and this year’s selections prove the audience’s appetite for intricate worldbuilding, fresh perspectives, and narratives that push genre boundaries. From debut authors making immediate impacts to established writers reaching new heights, the 2022 winners demonstrated the breadth and vitality of speculative fiction in an increasingly diverse literary landscape.

Fonda Lee’s Jade Legacy claimed the Best Fantasy Novel prize, continuing the celebrated author’s exploration of magic and family legacy in her Asian-inspired fantasy world. Meanwhile, P. Djèlí Clark’s A Master of Djinn earned Best First Novel honors, introducing readers to a richly imagined secondary-world Cairo steeped in wonder and intrigue. Arkady Martine’s A Desolation Called Peace won Best Science Fiction Novel with its politically complex space opera, while Charlie Jane Anders’ Victories Greater Than Death took Best Young Adult Book, cementing Anders’ reputation as a YA virtuoso. These winners represent just the highlights of a year where the Locus Awards recognized excellence across the full spectrum of speculative storytelling.

Below, you’ll find the complete breakdown of 2022 Locus Awards winners and what made their year in the awards circuit so memorable.

Best Fantasy Novel

Best First Novel

Best Science Fiction Novel

Best Young Adult Book