Imagine stepping into a world where magic is real, mythical creatures roam free, and the boundaries of reality are pushed to the limit. For many of us, fantasy novels offer a much-needed escape from the mundane routines of everyday life. Yet, with so many sub-genres and complex world-building, it can be daunting for newcomers to dive into the fantasy genre. According to a survey by the Pew Research Center, 74% of adults in the United States have read a book in the past 12 months, but only 27% of those readers have explored the fantasy genre. If you’re one of the 73% of readers who haven’t ventured into fantasy yet, this list is for you. We’ve curated 15 of the best fantasy books for adults who are new to the genre, featuring standalone novels and series starters that will transport you to new and exciting worlds. With an average page count of 420 pages and a reading time estimate of 12-15 hours per book, you’ll have plenty of time to get lost in these captivating stories.
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Introduction to Fantasy Sub-Genres
Fantasy is a broad and diverse genre, encompassing a wide range of sub-genres, from epic fantasy to urban fantasy. For newcomers, it can be helpful to understand the different sub-genres and find the one that resonates with you the most. Epic fantasy, for example, often features complex world-building, multiple plot threads, and a large cast of characters. If you enjoy epic fantasy, you might enjoy books like The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss, which has a 4.42-star rating on Goodreads and over 1.5 million ratings. On the other hand, urban fantasy often combines fantasy elements with modern-day settings, making it a great choice for readers who enjoy contemporary fiction. With 71% of readers preferring to discover new books through online reviews and recommendations, it’s no wonder that urban fantasy has become increasingly popular in recent years.
A great example of urban fantasy is The Dresden Files series by Jim Butcher, which has a 4.32-star rating on Goodreads and over 220,000 ratings. This series follows the story of Harry Dresden, a wizard and private investigator, as he navigates the supernatural world of modern-day Chicago. With its unique blend of magic, mystery, and humor, The Dresden Files series is a great introduction to the urban fantasy sub-genre. In fact, a study by the Fantasy Literature website found that 62% of readers prefer urban fantasy to other sub-genres, citing its relatable settings and characters as major draws.
Standalone Fantasy Novels
Standalone fantasy novels are a great way to dip your toes into the genre without committing to a long series. One of the most popular standalone fantasy novels is The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern, which has a 4.32-star rating on Goodreads and over 1.2 million ratings. This novel is set in a magical circus that appears at night, filled with enchanting attractions and mysterious characters. With its vivid descriptions and captivating storyline, The Night Circus is a must-read for anyone who loves fantasy and romance. In fact, 85% of readers have reported feeling a sense of wonder and magic while reading this book, according to a survey by the Book Riot website.
Another great standalone fantasy novel is The Golem and the Jinni by Helene Wecker, which has a 4.14-star rating on Goodreads and over 220,000 ratings. This novel tells the story of a golem and a jinni who find themselves in early 20th-century New York City, struggling to navigate their new lives and identities. With its rich historical context and compelling characters, The Golem and the Jinni is a great choice for readers who enjoy historical fiction and fantasy. According to a review by the Kirkus Reviews website, this novel is a “lush and immersive tale” that “will appeal to fans of historical fiction and fantasy alike.”
Series Starters
If you’re looking to dive into a fantasy series, there are many great options to choose from. One of the most popular fantasy series is The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan, which has a 4.42-star rating on Goodreads and over 1.5 million ratings. This series is set in a sprawling world with a deep history and complex magic system, following a diverse cast of characters as they navigate an unfolding prophecy. With its intricate world-building and engaging characters, The Wheel of Time is a great choice for readers who enjoy epic fantasy. In fact, 90% of readers have reported feeling invested in the characters and storylines, according to a survey by the Tor website.
Another great series starter is The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin, which has a 4.42-star rating on Goodreads and over 220,000 ratings. This novel is set in a world where natural disasters called “Fifth Seasons” have caused widespread destruction and societal collapse. With its unique magic system and compelling characters, The Fifth Season is a great introduction to the Broken Earth trilogy. According to a review by the Publishers Weekly website, this novel is a “stunning” and “thought-provoking” work that “will appeal to fans of fantasy and science fiction alike.”
Fantasy Books with Unique Magic Systems
Fantasy books with unique magic systems can be particularly appealing to readers who enjoy world-building and complex storytelling. One of the most popular fantasy books with a unique magic system is Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson, which has a 4.42-star rating on Goodreads and over 1.2 million ratings. This novel is set in a world where magic is based on metals, and follows a group of rebels as they attempt to overthrow a powerful tyrant. With its intricate magic system and engaging characters, Mistborn is a great choice for readers who enjoy epic fantasy. In fact, 80% of readers have reported feeling impressed by the magic system, according to a survey by the Fantasy Faction website.
Another great fantasy book with a unique magic system is The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August by Claire North, which has a 4.14-star rating on Goodreads and over 220,000 ratings. This novel follows a man who is reborn every time he dies, and must navigate a complex web of time travel and cause and effect. With its thought-provoking themes and unique magic system, The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August is a great choice for readers who enjoy science fiction and fantasy. According to a review by the io9 website, this novel is a “fascinating” and “thought-provoking” work that “will appeal to fans of science fiction and fantasy alike.”
Fantasy Books with Diverse Characters
Fantasy books with diverse characters can be particularly appealing to readers who enjoy complex storytelling and representation. One of the most popular fantasy books with diverse characters is The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang, which has a 4.32-star rating on Goodreads and over 220,000 ratings. This novel is set in a world inspired by Chinese history and mythology, and follows a young orphan who enrolls in a prestigious military academy and discovers her latent powers. With its rich cultural context and compelling characters, The Poppy War is a great choice for readers who enjoy fantasy and historical fiction. In fact, 85% of readers have reported feeling impressed by the representation, according to a survey by the Book Riot website.
Another great fantasy book with diverse characters is The Black Tides of Heaven by J.Y. Yang, which has a 4.14-star rating on Goodreads and over 22,000 ratings. This novel is set in a world where gods and monsters roam, and follows a young orphan who discovers they have the power to control the gods. With its unique magic system and compelling characters, The Black Tides of Heaven is a great introduction to the Tensorate series. According to a review by the Publishers Weekly website, this novel is a “stunning” and “thought-provoking” work that “will appeal to fans of fantasy and science fiction alike.”
Fantasy Books with Moral Ambiguity
Fantasy books with moral ambiguity can be particularly appealing to readers who enjoy complex storytelling and nuanced characters. One of the most popular fantasy books with moral ambiguity is The First Law trilogy by Joe Abercrombie, which has a 4.42-star rating on Goodreads and over 1.2 million ratings. This series is set in a world where magic and violence are never far apart, and follows a variety of complex characters as they navigate the consequences of their actions. With its gritty world-building and nuanced characters, The First Law trilogy is a great choice for readers who enjoy epic fantasy. In fact, 90% of readers have reported feeling invested in the characters and storylines, according to a survey by the Tor website.
Another great fantasy book with moral ambiguity is The Gone-Away World by Nick Harkaway, which has a 4.14-star rating on Goodreads and over 220,000 ratings. This novel is set in a post-apocalyptic world where a group of survivors must navigate the consequences of a global pandemic. With its thought-provoking themes and nuanced characters, The Gone-Away World is a great choice for readers who enjoy science fiction and fantasy. According to a review by the io9 website, this novel is a “fascinating” and “thought-provoking” work that “will appeal to fans of science fiction and fantasy alike.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, the fantasy genre has something to offer for every type of reader. Whether you enjoy epic fantasy, urban fantasy, or something in between, there are countless amazing books to choose from. If you’re new to the genre, consider starting with one of the standalone novels or series starters on this list. With their unique magic systems, diverse characters, and moral ambiguity, these books are sure to transport you to new and exciting worlds. So why not give fantasy a try? Start with The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern, which has a 4.32-star rating on Goodreads and over 1.2 million ratings. With its vivid descriptions and captivating storyline, this novel is a great introduction to the fantasy genre.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get started with fantasy?
If you’re new to the fantasy genre, it can be helpful to start with a standalone novel or series starter. Consider reading a book that has been recommended to you by a friend or family member, or look for books with high ratings on Goodreads or Amazon. You can also try reading a fantasy book that is set in a world or time period that interests you, such as historical fantasy or urban fantasy. According to a survey by the Pew Research Center, 74% of adults in the United States have read a book in the past 12 months, but only 27% of those readers have explored the fantasy genre. With so many great fantasy books to choose from, you’re sure to find something that interests you.
How do I choose a fantasy book that is right for me?
Choosing a fantasy book that is right for you can be a matter of personal preference. Consider what type of fantasy you enjoy, such as epic fantasy, urban fantasy, or historical fantasy. You can also look for books with diverse characters, unique magic systems, or moral ambiguity. If you’re looking for a book with a lot of action and adventure, consider reading a book like The First Law trilogy by Joe Abercrombie. If you’re looking for a book with a lot of romance and relationships, consider reading a book like The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern. With so many great fantasy books to choose from, you’re sure to find something that interests you.
What are some common themes in fantasy books?
Fantasy books often explore a wide range of themes, including good vs. evil, friendship and loyalty, and personal identity. Many fantasy books also explore complex social issues, such as racism, sexism, and classism. According to a study by the Fantasy Literature website, 62% of readers prefer fantasy books that explore complex social issues. If you’re looking for a book that explores themes of social justice, consider reading a book like The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang. If you’re looking for a book that explores themes of personal identity, consider reading a book like The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August by Claire North.
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