Fantasy Books for Beginners
The fantasy genre has captivated readers for centuries, transporting them to imaginative worlds filled with magic, mythical creatures, and epic adventures. There is a certain allure to the genre that keeps readers coming back for more, craving the sense of wonder and escapism that it provides.
Enter this article – the perfect place to begin your journey into the magical realms of fantasy. Whether you are new to the genre or a seasoned fantasy enthusiast, this article will take you on a thrilling ride, introducing you to some of the most beloved fantasy books of all time.
Delve into Robert Jordan’s “The Eye of the World,” a mesmerising epic that will ignite your imagination and leave you craving more. In this enthralling tale, new readers will find a seamless blend of adventure, mystery, and complex characters. Embark on a quest with Rand al’Thor and his companions as they navigate a world on the brink of darkness. With its rich world-building and masterful storytelling, “The Eye of the World” is the perfect introduction to the expansive Wheel of Time series.
The “Eye of the World” is the book that got me back into reading as an adult and one I hold very closely to my heart. I immediately fell in love with the world, the magic and main characters. Jordan’s writing is beautiful, visceral and is unlike any other author I have read since. For some, this may not seem a great entry point for reading fantasy to some but speaking from personal experience, I cannot imagine starting anywhere else.
Prepare to be enthralled by Brandon Sanderson’s “The Final Empire,” a thrilling tale set in a world ruled by an immortal tyrant. New readers will be immediately drawn into the story of Vin, a young street urchin with a hidden power that could change everything. Sanderson’s meticulously crafted magic system and intricate plot twists will keep you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning the pages. “The Final Empire” is a must-read for anyone seeking an epic fantasy with complex characters, political intrigue, and a touch of rebellion.
Sanderson is a great starting point for those who wish to start reading fantasy or anyone looking to get back into reading. “The Final Empire” is fast paced, fun and combines fantasy themes with a classic heist plot which I absolutely love. Sanderson’s writing style, I feel, suits every type of reader. It is engaging, free flowing and is easy to understand, which when fantasy and magic are in the mix can be a massive benfit.
Terry Pratchett’s “Mort” is a whimsical and humorous journey that will leave new readers enchanted. Enter Discworld, a flat world balanced on the backs of four giant elephants, who in turn stand on the back of a giant turtle. In this hilarious tale, we meet Mort, a young man who takes an apprenticeship with Death himself. Pratchett’s wit, clever wordplay, and satirical observations make “Mort” a delightful entry point into his extensive Discworld series. Discover the perfect blend of fantasy and comedy, and get ready for an adventure like no other.
In this spot, I could easily recommend any Discworld novel and feel comfortable doing so, but Mort is where I got my start in the series and is often one that is signposted by the wider community. If you are looking for something that is easy to read, full of humour and captivating from page 1, then look no further than “Mort”.
Joe Abercrombie’s “The Blade Itself” is a gritty and dark tale that will leave new readers craving more. Set in a world of war and political intrigue, this book introduces readers to a cast of morally ambiguous characters, each with their own secrets and agendas. Abercrombie’s skillful writing, realistic combat scenes, and gritty atmosphere create a captivating reading experience. “The Blade Itself” is the ideal choice for those who crave a character-driven story with a healthy dose of action.
The further I have delved into fantasy and its many sub-genres, the more I come back to Joe Abercrombie and his First Law Trilogy. “The Blade Itself” features some of the best characters I have ever read and has a world that grips you in an instant. Abercrombie’s work is filled with dark humour, morally grey characters you learn to love and a beautifully woven story in a way that I could not put down.
N.K. Jemisin’s “The Fifth Season” offers a unique and thought-provoking entry into the fantasy genre. Set in a world plagued by catastrophic natural disasters, known as Seasons, this book follows several characters with extraordinary abilities. Jemisin’s masterful prose and world-building create a vivid and immersive experience that will resonate with new readers. With its exploration of power, oppression, and resilience, “The Fifth Season” is an excellent choice for those seeking a fresh and innovative take on fantasy.
Step into the dangerous and colorful city of Camorr with Scott Lynch’s “The Lies of Locke Lamora.” This book introduces readers to the witty and cunning Locke Lamora, a highly skilled thief who orchestrates elaborate heists. Lynch’s dynamic characters, intricate world-building, and clever plot twists make “The Lies of Locke Lamora” an exhilarating and immersive read. For new readers seeking a fast-paced adventure filled with heists, humour, and a touch of darkness, this book is an absolute must-read.
R.F. Kuang’s “The Poppy War” is a powerful and impactful fantasy debut that should not be missed. Journey into a world inspired by Chinese history, where war, magic, and political strife collide. New readers will be captivated by Rin, a young orphan seeking to escape poverty by enrolling in an elite military academy. “The Poppy War” expertly balances themes of identity, power, and the costs of war, immersing readers in a complex and visceral narrative. Kuang’s remarkable storytelling and attention to detail create a compelling and unforgettable reading experience.
John Gwynne’s “Malice” is a classic tale of good versus evil that will leave new readers eager for more. This epic fantasy follows a diverse cast of characters as they navigate a world on the brink of destruction, facing ancient prophecies and battling against dark forces. Gwynne’s skillful world-building, intricate plot, and engaging characters make “Malice” a perfect entry point for those seeking a traditional high fantasy with a modern twist. Prepare yourself for an epic journey filled with sword fights, magic, and a battle for the fate of the world.
A lot of modern fantasy tries to move away from the many tropes and ‘subvert expectations’. What Gwynne has done well, in my opinion, is lean back into old tropes whilst still keeping the story interesting and fun to read. For someone looking to explore fantasy for the first time or get back into reading, Malice is great entry point.
Ursula K. Le Guin’s “A Wizard of Earthsea” is a timeless coming-of-age tale that holds a special place in the realm of fantasy. Enter the archipelago of Earthsea, a world where magic is revered and balance is of utmost importance. Follow the young wizard Ged as he discovers the true power of magic and faces the consequences of his actions. Le Guin’s elegant prose, rich mythology, and poignant exploration of self-discovery make “A Wizard of Earthsea” a must-read for fans of character-driven stories and philosophical themes.
Ursula Le Guin is a legend of the fantasy genre that everyone should read at one point in their life. “A Wizard of Earthsea” is a great way to begin reading fantasy as an adult or get back into reading. The book maybe short but it is definitely impactful, with characters that I love and wish I could return to again and again.
The fantasy genre offers a limitless canvas for imagination, allowing readers to explore fantastical worlds, encounter extraordinary characters, and embark on epic quests. Whether you are seeking adventure, escapism, or thought-provoking narratives, the fantasy genre has something to offer everyone. So, grab a book, immerse yourself in the realms of fantasy, and embark on your own magical journey.