Fantasy is one of those genres that has a magical ability to transport readers to new worlds. It’s exciting to see fantastical places and imagine ourselves as epic heroes with abilities we can only dream of. Fantasy books are the best out there for escaping reality.
For a lot of fantasy readers, escapism is a major source of appeal. Why be a regular human when you can be a morally grey rogue or the sole savior of your kingdom? I love the feeling of getting lost in a book, and fantasy is my go-to when I’m craving a little good ol’ escapism.
If you’ve been searching for new fantasy book, look no further than this list. Here are my top 5 fantasy books. Some are full of whimsy, others angst, and in one case, gruesome horror. Without further ado:
1. 6 Crimson Cranes by Elizabeth Lim
If you want a book that feels like a fairytale, this is the one for you. Imagine that you’re the princess of a beautiful kingdom, only for your evil stepmother to banish you from your home and turn your six older brothers into birds. Tough luck, for sure.
Dragon spirits, magical curses, and a compelling romance subplot make this book feel unique and fantastical. Princess Shiori is a strong main character dealing with otherworldly threats and trying to break the curse her stepmother placed on her family. The stakes are high, the twists are shocking, and the world feels so colorful and lively. Overall, the book is an easy 5/5 stars for me.
2. A River Enchanted by Rebecca Ross
I’ve never wanted to live in a fantasy world as much as I want to live in Cadence. A Celtic-inspired island with magical spirits and a beautiful countryside? What more could I ask for?
In a world where spirits control the hills and words dance on the wind, music is the key to uncovering the island’s mysteries. In addition to the magical land, the characters are striking. Using the power of music and consorting with unruly spirits, Jack and Adaira have to overcome their childhood rivalry and uncover who has been stealing away the young girls of Cadence.
Every time I pick this book up, I feel like I’m returning home after years away. You’re immediately taken from reality and placed on the island, which is brimming with magic and secrets long kept hidden. It’s perfect if you’ve been seeking a nice hit of escapism. For the best experience, I recommend checking out the audiobook! A River Enchanted on Overdrive.
3. The Way of Kings by Branden Sanderson
When I first picked up this book, with its intimidating size of roughly 1250 pages, I almost gave up before I started. But oh man, was it worth every page. Don’t let the insane length stop you. This is one of the best fantasy books I’ve ever read.
Branden Sanderson is a giant in the fantasy genre and with good reason. In a deeply divided world, the four main characters deal with the struggles of war, classism, secret agendas, and mystical calls to a long-lost time. I fell in love with them and their journeys, and I can’t wait to continue reading the series. It may take some time, but it’s such an immersive story that I can’t recommend enough.
4. The Prisoner Healer by Lynette Noni
The most notorious prison in the kingdom. A girl wrongfully imprisoned. A mysterious illness killing prisoners. Magical trials no one survives. Twists that you won’t see coming. Altogether, this fantasy book is just pure fun.
To me, it’s like popcorn; it’s easy to breeze through, and I always have a great time. The book is fast-paced and a strong start to an entertaining series. I was instantly engrossed in the world and the gripping trials that the protagonist Kiva has to endure, not to mention the great side characters that only heighten the charm. All in all, if you’ve been needing a book to sweep you off your feet, this one’s for you.
5. Between Two Fires by Christopher Buehlman
A disgraced knight, a shaken priest, and a mysterious young girl set off on a holy quest through the plague-ridden medieval France. Rife with demonic monsters, grotesque battles, and mysterious pasts, this book is a wild ride. Think of it as a road trip with the Black Plague and creatures from Hell.
The book is gnarly but in such a captivating way, and I sped through it in a matter of days. While medieval France might not be the most scenic world for escapism, especially in the aftermath of the Black Plague, the story pulls you in and doesn’t let go.
So, to sum it all up…
This list embodies what I love most about fantasy: the escapist potential of the genre. Whenever I want a break from reality, I always find myself coming back to these stories.
