Journey Through Fantasy: A Guide to Must-Read Epic Fantasies
- CLC
- Dec 28, 2023
- 4 min read
As a voracious reader who loves to lose myself in fantastical realms after my 9 to 5, I’m excited to share with you my current favorite picks that have captured my heart and imagination.
Why It’s a Golden Age for Fantasy Genre Readers
Before diving into my top picks, let’s discuss why now is an incredible time to be a fantasy reader. Fantasy literature has seen a remarkable surge in popularity in recent years, with more diverse voices and complex narratives entering the scene.
The genre has been and is continuing to evolve. It's breaking traditional boundaries and exploring new horizons. Statistics show an upswing in fantasy novel sales, especially in the young adult and new adult categories, reflecting readers' growing appetite for escapism, the world of magic, and adventure.
The Evolving Landscape of Fantasy
Fantasy has a rich history that is more complex than a simple fairy tale, from the mythological epics of ancient times to the fairy tales of the Middle Ages, leading up to the more modern fantasies that have defined the genre.
What we're witnessing now is an expansion of this tradition, with fantasy novels increasingly blending with other genres, like science fiction and especially urban fantasy; which combines magical elements with modern, urban settings.
The Appeal of Modern Fantasy
Epic fantasy is like finding a secret door that leads to an extraordinary new magical world. There's something for everyone, from epic tales set in richly imagined worlds to stories where magic meets the modern cityscape. These books offer escapism and reflection on our own world, making them resonate with readers of all ages.
Magical Realism
I've always been fascinated by the way magical realism weaves the ordinary with the extraordinary. This genre blurs the lines between reality and fantasy, embedding magic systems and magical elements into everyday life as if they were commonplace.
The world of magic is treated not as something outlandish but as an integral, accepted part of reality, which often leads to profound reflections on life, culture, and the human condition.
It's this seamless fusion of the real and the surreal that captivates me, offering a reading experience that feels both grounded and ethereal. Authors like Gabriel García Márquez and Isabel Allende are maestros of this genre, and their works have enchanted me, allowing me to see the magic hidden within the mundane.
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Cassie’s Top Picks for Best Fantasy Books
This series is a mesmerizing blend of history, magic, and romance. It's an intelligent and well-researched novel that offers a fresh take on the supernatural, making it a must-read for fans of fantasy and historical fiction alike.
Maas's series is a breathtakingly imaginative and thrilling adventure. It features a strong and complex heroine, an intricate fantasy world, and a plot that's both ambitious and deeply personal. It's a standout in the realm of epic fantasy. Check out my reading guide for Sarah J Maas universe.
This series is a cornerstone of urban fantasy, expertly blending the magical with the modern. Clare's world of Shadowhunters and Downworlders is richly detailed and endlessly fascinating, offering a perfect escape for those who love their fantasy with a dose of reality.
Black's series is known for its dark, enchanting world-building and complex characters. It’s a gripping tale of power, betrayal, and romance set in a lush, dangerous world of faeries.
In this series, Maas creates a vibrant urban fantasy world filled with intriguing characters and a compelling mystery. It's a spellbinding mix of fantasy, romance, and suspense.
This novel is a beautifully written urban fantasy that spans centuries, offering a unique perspective on love, life, and art. It’s a poignant story about a woman who makes a Faustian bargain to live forever but is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets.
This book meticulously explores the intricate details of story weaving, revitalizing a familiar magical system with a sense of intrigue and novelty.
This book follows the main character, a 20-year-old Violet Sorrentgail, who was supposed to enter the Scribe Quadrant, living a quiet existence amongst the archives of history. The commanding general, aka her mother, has other plans for her. Sending her to join the hundreds of candidates striving to become an elite dragon rider.
Final Thoughts
Fantasy literature is more vibrant and diverse than ever, offering endless adventures and opportunities to dream. Whether you’re a long-time fantasy lover or just beginning your journey, these books are gateways to extraordinary experiences and often times a hero's journey.
Let me know in the comments which of these you’ve read or are planning to read. And as always, happy reading!
Some of The Best Books/Traditional Epic Fantasy Reads
If you are looking for a more traditional fantasy reading list, check these out:
Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin
A Song of Ice and Fire by George R. R. Martin
Lord of The Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien
Harry Potter by J. K. Rowling
Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan
The Color of Magic by Terry Pratchett
American Gods by Neil Gaiman
The Way of Kings by Brandon Sandersonoftentimes
The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson
Babel by R. F. Kuang (Nebula Awards winner)
Nettle & Bone by T. Kingfisher (Hugo Award winner)
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