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Keep reading for some beginner friendly fantasy book recs…
Fantasy is the place where people have found some of the finest stories humanity has ever developed – from Lord of the Rings to The Chronicles of Narnia. Fantasy literature uses elements of another world to mirror ours, leaving the real world more enchanted.
Between the pages of a fantasy novel readers may find any number of things including myth, legend, fairy-tale, magic, witches, talking animals and monsters. Readers may also encounter philosophical questions, moral spectrums and rich cultures.
As wonderful as fantasy is, it can also be incredibly difficult to get into. This is due to the genres use of complex language and world building. There are, however, particular fantasy books which are perfect for those diving into the genre for the first time. These books are explored in more detail below.
Classic Standalones:
The Hobbit by J.R.R Tolkien
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication date: September 21, 1937
Book summary: This timeless Tolkien masterpiece follows a homebody hobbit named Bilbo as he is recruited by the wizard Gandalf and 13 dwarves to take back their mountain home from the dragon.
What to expect: The Hobbit is a classic piece of fantasy literature, full of adventure and charm. The story takes the reader through forests and misty mountains whilst encountering trolls. elves, eagles and more. The Hobbit is the perfect introduction to fantasy – with more simple narrative structure, tone and detailing than The Lord of the Rings.
You can buy The Hobbit by J.R.R Tolkien HERE.
The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle
Publisher: Varied
Publication date: 1968
Book summary: The story of an immortal unicorn who leaves her mystical forest on a quest to find out why she is the last of her kind – encountering a magician, a hunter, a butterfly and a beast along the way.
What to expect: A genre defining, lyrical and bittersweet tale with themes of mortality, identity, regret, love and loss.
You can buy The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle HERE.
Modern Standalones:
The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Publication date: October 17, 2023
Book summary: A magical standalone which follows June Farrow, a young woman from a North Carolina family cursed with madness, who must confront the past to break a curse.
What to expect: Whilst not a fully fledged fantasy novel, The Unmaking of June Farrow contains just enough magic to leave you wanting more. Expect a story weaved with romance, family, time travel and a murder mystery – all written in charming and gripping prose.
You can buy The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young HERE.
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Publisher: Varied
Publication date: September 13, 2011
Book summary: The Night Circus follows a magical black and white circus named Le Cirque des Reves that only appears at night. The circus serves as the backdrop for a deadly competition between rivals and illusionaists, Celia and Marco.
What to expect: Perfect for those looking for a fantasy book with atmosphere instead of action. Expect dreamlike shifting imagery, slow-burn romance and immersive storytelling. You can also anticipate a world filled with impossible wonders such as a wishing tree, a cloud maze and a hall of mirrors.
You can buy The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern HERE.
Classic Series:
The Earthsea Cycle Series by Ursula K. Le Guin
Publisher: Gollancz (above edition)
Publication date: 1968 – onwards
Series summary: The Earthsea Cycle series is a coming of age story following the powerful wizard Ged (Sparrowhawk). Beginning with his training at wizard school where he unleashes a shadow creature – all the way through to old age. As the series unfolds, the reader is introduced to an abundance of new characters, cultures and aspects of the Earthsea world.
What to expect: The Earthsea Cycle series contains profound themes such as identity, sexism, responsibility and death. Though the series includes an array of characters and perspectives, the minimalist writing style resembling simple folktales makes it an accessible entry point into the fantasy genre.
You can buy The Earthsea Cycle Series by Ursula K. Le Guin HERE.
Modern Series:
The Mistborn Series by Brandon Sanderson
Publisher: Varied
Publication date: July 17, 2006 – onwards
Series summary: There are 7 books in the Mistborn series, split into two eras. The original trilogy (era 1) and Wax & Wayne Quartet (era 2). Set in a dystopian world, the series follows a group of thieves (led by a morally grey character) who use magic as they attempt to steal from the immortal dark lord and overthrow the empire.
What to expect: A great entry point into epic fantasy due to its plot that instantly hooks readers, defined and well-explained magic system and clear and concise writing style. Expect themes of oppression, power and resilience.
You can buy the Mistborn Series by Brandon Sanderson HERE.
Kingdom of Lies Series by Stacia Stark
Publisher: Penguin Michael Joseph
Publication date: 2023 – 2024
Series summary: This four-book fantasy romance series follows a young woman named Prisca as she leaves her home village after her prohibited magic is discovered.
What to expect: A fast-paced action packed story featuring politics, conflict and a strong female lead. Heavier themes of war and political intrigue are balanced with commonly used tropes such as enemies-to-lovers and found family. Additionally, the Kingdom of Lies series features clear and easy-to-follow world building without excessive and complicated details.
