This list was inspired by the reading prompt:tRead a fantasy novel in the Playing Card Reading Challenge (Ace of Clubs). Talk about overwhelming! The Fantasy genre is massive. First, I will narrow the list by requiring that each book in this list be a standalone novel (no series in this list, but Epic Series Starters has a lot of Fantasy representation.) Second, each fantasy book must be highly rated (4 stars or better). Third, only one book per author β many of these authors have a catalog in the fantasy genre.
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What makes a book a fantasy?
A book is a fantasy when it hasΒ the presence of supernatural or magical elements that do not exist in the real world, like magic, mythical creatures, or other impossible phenomena.Β Typically set in an imaginary universe with its own unique attributes and generally showcase a sense of adventure and often a struggle between good and evil.Β
Why read fantasy?
People read fantasyΒ to escape reality, experience adventure and complex new worlds, exercise their imagination and creativity, and engage with universal themes like power, identity, and hope through a unique point of view.Β These stories are immersive and often hopeful experience that stimulates thought and can inspire problem-solving and a greater understanding of the human condition, even as they provide a respite from daily stressors.Β
William Goldman
A swashbuckling tale of true love featuring Westley, Buttercup, and unforgettable characters like Inigo Montoya and Fezzik, filled with high adventure, sharp wit, and snappy dialogue.
Also fulfills: Read a romance.
Rhiannon Hargadon
Anne was a reckless, arrogant royal who had never tasted defeat. After a brutal betrayal on her wedding night, Anne vanishes from the kingdom she was meant to rule. Years later, sheβs returns from the graveβno longer a princess but a terror of the seas.
Also Fulfills: Read a book set at sea Read a romance
M.L. Wang
A woman strives to be the first female mage admitted to a prestigious order, but faces challenges from her colleagues and a mysterious janitor with a hidden past. Together, they uncover a secret that could change the course of magic forever.
V. E. Schwab
A young woman makes a Faustian bargain to live forever and is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets.
Also fulfills: Read a romance
Guy Gavriel Kay
Tigana is the magical story of a beleaguered land struggling to be free. It is the tale of a people so cursed by the black sorcery of a cruel despotic king that even the name of their once-beautiful homeland cannot be spoken or rememberedβ¦
Susanna Clarke
A man explores an infinite, labyrinthine house filled with statues and an imprisoned ocean, uncovering a shocking truth about his world.
Also fulfills: Read a magical realism novel
Simon Jimenez
In this award-winning fantasy, a broken guard and an outcast help a captive God escape from the Moon Throne’s tyrannical royal family, embarking on a dangerous five-day journey to end their oppressive reign.
Also Fulfills: Read a book that won an award. Read a romance. Read a book with LGBTQ+ representation.
T. Kingfisher
From New York Times bestselling and Hugo Award-winning author T. Kingfisher comes Hemlock & Silver, a dark reimagining of βSnow Whiteβ steeped in poison, intrigue, and treason of the most magical kind
Also fulfills: Read a romance.
Genevieve Gornichec
A witch falls in love with Loki and must choose between accepting her fate or remaking their future.
Also fulfills: Read a romance.
Stephen King
A teenager inherits a portal to a parallel world where he must confront evil forces threatening both realms.
What amazing standalone fantasy books did I miss? Leave a comment so we can check it out!
May your life be as full as your bookshelf and as long as your TBR list.
Happy Reading!
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