The Greatest Fantasy Books Since 1900

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 759 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Genres

Fantasy

Fantasy is a genre of literature that typically involves imaginative and supernatural elements, often set in a fictional world or alternate reality. These stories often feature mythical creatures, magic, and epic battles between good and evil. Fantasy books can range from high fantasy, which includes complex world-building and intricate plotlines, to urban fantasy, which blends fantastical elements with contemporary settings. The genre allows readers to escape into a world of wonder and adventure, where anything is possible.

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  1. 1351. A Night In The Lonesome October by Roger Zelazny

    Set in a Victorian-era London, this darkly whimsical tale unfolds through the eyes of Snuff, a loyal and intelligent watchdog. As the month of October progresses, Snuff and his master, Jack, become embroiled in a mysterious and ancient ritual involving a cast of eccentric characters, each with their own animal companion. The story is a blend of mystery, horror, and humor, as alliances shift and secrets unravel, leading to a climactic confrontation on Halloween night. The narrative cleverly intertwines elements of classic horror literature with a unique twist, creating an engaging and atmospheric adventure.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  2. 1352. The Gate Of The Feral Gods by Matt Dinniman

    Dungeon Crawler Carl Book 5

    In this thrilling installment of the LitRPG series, the protagonist, Carl, finds himself navigating a world teetering on the brink of chaos as the boundaries between reality and the game world blur. As he ventures through the treacherous landscapes filled with mythical creatures and enigmatic gods, Carl must harness his wits and newfound powers to confront the looming threat of the feral gods. With alliances forming and enemies lurking at every turn, the stakes are higher than ever, and Carl's journey becomes a race against time to save both worlds from impending doom.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  3. 1353. The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook by Matt Dinniman

    The Completionist Chronicles

    In a world where reality and virtual gaming intertwine, a group of players find themselves trapped in a deadly game where survival is the only option. As they navigate through a labyrinth of challenges, they must rely on their wits, skills, and unexpected alliances to outsmart the system and each other. With the stakes higher than ever, the boundaries between friend and foe blur, leading to a thrilling exploration of trust, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of freedom in a digital dystopia.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  4. 1354. The Day My Bum Went Psycho by Andy Griffiths

    In a hilariously absurd adventure, a young boy embarks on a quest to rescue his runaway bum, which has joined a rebellious army of bums plotting world domination. As he navigates through a series of comical and bizarre challenges, he teams up with a group of bum-fighting allies, including a bum-hunter and a bum-fighting dog, to thwart the bums' outrageous plans. This uproarious tale combines slapstick humor with a touch of the surreal, capturing the imagination with its unique and whimsical take on a world where bums have minds of their own.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 1355. Shrek! by William Steig

    In a whimsical and humorous tale, a hideous green ogre embarks on a journey to discover his destiny, encountering a witch, a dragon, and a donkey along the way. Despite his fearsome appearance and fiery breath, the ogre remains unfazed by the world's disdain, embracing his uniqueness with pride. His adventure leads him to a castle where he meets a princess who is equally unconventional, and together they find happiness in their shared oddity, celebrating the beauty of being different.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  6. 1356. Starry River Of The Sky by Grace Lin

    In a small, mysterious village where the moon has disappeared from the sky, a young boy named Rendi finds himself stranded and working at a local inn. As he interacts with the villagers and listens to their stories, he uncovers secrets about the town and its inhabitants. Through these tales, Rendi embarks on a journey of self-discovery, learning about courage, forgiveness, and the importance of storytelling. The narrative beautifully weaves together elements of Chinese folklore and mythology, creating a rich tapestry of adventure and wisdom.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  7. 1357. Cursed Fates by Caroline Peckham

    Zodiac Academy 5

    In a world where destiny is intertwined with magic and power, two star-crossed lovers find themselves caught in a web of ancient prophecies and family rivalries. As they navigate a landscape filled with supernatural beings and dark secrets, their bond is tested by the weight of their inherited responsibilities and the looming threat of a cursed fate. With each twist and turn, they must confront their deepest fears and make choices that could alter the course of their lives forever, all while battling forces that seek to tear them apart.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  8. 1358. Gold by Raven Kennedy

    The Plated Prisoner Series

    In a world where magic and power intertwine, a young woman named Auren finds herself trapped in a gilded cage, both literally and metaphorically. As the favored consort of a powerful king, her life is one of luxury yet isolation, her skin mysteriously turned to gold. Auren's journey is one of self-discovery and rebellion as she grapples with her own identity and the oppressive forces that seek to control her. Amidst courtly intrigue and dangerous alliances, she must navigate a path to freedom, uncovering secrets that could change the fate of kingdoms.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  9. 1359. The Ballad Of Never After by Stephanie Garber

    In this enchanting sequel, the protagonist finds herself navigating a world filled with magic, mystery, and unexpected alliances. As she delves deeper into the realm's secrets, she must confront her own past and the choices that have led her to this pivotal moment. With the stakes higher than ever, she discovers that love and betrayal are two sides of the same coin, and the line between friend and foe is blurred. As the narrative unfolds, the protagonist is thrust into a whirlwind of emotions, where every decision could alter the course of her destiny and the fate of those she holds dear.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  10. 1360. Rouge by Mona Awad

    In this haunting and surreal tale, a young woman becomes ensnared in a world of beauty and obsession after the sudden death of her estranged mother. As she delves deeper into her mother's enigmatic past, she finds herself drawn into a mysterious spa that promises eternal youth and beauty. The story explores themes of identity, vanity, and the dark side of self-perception, weaving a narrative that blurs the lines between reality and illusion, ultimately questioning the lengths one might go to achieve perfection.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  11. 1361. A Heart Of Blood And Ashes by Milla Vane

    A Gathering of Dragons

    In a world where kingdoms are forged through blood and vengeance, a fierce warrior prince seeks retribution for the murder of his parents, only to find his path intertwined with a cunning and determined princess. As they navigate a landscape filled with betrayal, magic, and ancient prophecies, their unexpected alliance challenges their beliefs and ignites a passion that could either save or doom their people. Amidst the chaos of war and the shadows of their pasts, they must decide whether their shared destiny will be one of love or destruction.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  12. 1362. A Fate Inked In Blood by Danielle L. Jensen

    In a world where destiny is etched in ink, a young woman discovers that her fate is intertwined with ancient prophecies and powerful forces beyond her control. As she navigates a realm filled with magic, betrayal, and unexpected alliances, she must confront her own fears and insecurities to unlock the secrets of her past. With time running out, she embarks on a perilous journey to rewrite her destiny, challenging the boundaries of fate and forging a path that could alter the course of history forever.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  13. 1363. Masters Of Death by Olivie Blake

    In a world where the supernatural and the mundane coexist, a real estate agent who happens to be a vampire finds herself entangled in a complex web of intrigue and danger. Tasked with selling a haunted house, she encounters a mysterious and enigmatic medium who claims to communicate with the dead. As they delve deeper into the secrets of the property, they uncover a sinister plot that threatens the balance between life and death. With a blend of dark humor and suspense, the story explores themes of identity, mortality, and the blurred lines between the living and the undead.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  14. 1364. A Curse For True Love by Stephanie Garber

    In this enchanting tale, the boundaries between love and destiny blur as the protagonist embarks on a journey filled with magic, mystery, and heart-wrenching choices. Set in a world where curses intertwine with fate, the story unfolds with unexpected twists and turns, challenging the characters to confront their deepest fears and desires. As they navigate a landscape of enchantments and hidden truths, the characters must decide whether to embrace the curse that binds them or fight for a love that defies the odds. With rich, evocative prose and a tapestry of emotions, this narrative explores the transformative power of love and the courage it takes to rewrite one's destiny.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  15. 1365. The Captain by Will Wight

    The Rise of the Uncrowned

    In a world where the boundaries between realms are thin and the balance of power is constantly shifting, a determined leader emerges to guide his crew through treacherous waters and unforeseen challenges. As they navigate a universe filled with ancient secrets, powerful artifacts, and formidable adversaries, the captain must rely on his wits, courage, and the loyalty of his diverse crew to overcome the odds. With each encounter, they uncover more about the mysterious forces at play, revealing a destiny that could alter the fate of their world forever.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  16. 1366. Broken Bonds by J. Bree

    The Bonds that Tie

    In a world where supernatural abilities are both a gift and a curse, a young woman finds herself entangled in a web of secrets, betrayal, and forbidden love. As she navigates the complexities of her newfound powers, she must confront the shadows of her past and the dangerous forces that threaten to unravel the fragile bonds she holds dear. With allies who may not be what they seem and enemies lurking in the shadows, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of truth.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  17. 1367. A Day Of Fallen Night by Samantha Shannon

    Set in a richly imagined world, this epic fantasy novel weaves together the destinies of three women from different corners of the realm as they confront an ancient threat that could plunge their world into darkness. As the Dreadmount awakens, spewing fire and chaos, the characters must navigate political intrigue, personal sacrifice, and the weight of prophecy to protect their loved ones and preserve the fragile peace. With themes of resilience, courage, and the power of unity, the story unfolds with breathtaking scope and emotional depth, drawing readers into a tale of survival and hope against overwhelming odds.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  18. 1368. This Woven Kingdom by Tahereh Mafi

    Set in a world where ancient prophecies and hidden identities intertwine, this enchanting tale follows the journey of Alizeh, a servant girl with a secret royal lineage, and Kamran, a crown prince burdened by duty. As their paths cross amidst political intrigue and looming threats, they must navigate a realm filled with magic, betrayal, and forbidden love. With the fate of their kingdom hanging in the balance, Alizeh and Kamran are drawn into a battle that will test their courage and redefine their destinies.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  19. 1369. The Queen Of The Tearling by Erika Johansen

    In a dystopian future, a young and determined princess named Kelsea Raleigh Glynn embarks on a perilous journey to reclaim her rightful throne and restore justice to the Tearling kingdom. Raised in exile, Kelsea must navigate a treacherous political landscape filled with deceit, danger, and dark magic. As she battles against the malevolent Red Queen and her own insecurities, Kelsea discovers her hidden strengths and the true power of leadership, all while grappling with the heavy burden of her destiny and the secrets of her past.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  20. 1370. All The Tides Of Fate by Adalyn Grace

    In this thrilling sequel, the protagonist, Amora Montara, grapples with the weight of her newfound responsibilities as queen while haunted by the ghosts of her past. As she embarks on a perilous journey across the kingdom's seas, Amora seeks to uncover the truth behind a mysterious curse that threatens her reign and the lives of those she holds dear. With the help of her loyal crew and unexpected allies, she must navigate treacherous waters, confront her deepest fears, and embrace her destiny to save her people from impending doom.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  21. 1371. Time's Convert by Deborah Harkness

    Set against the backdrop of the American Revolution and the vibrant streets of contemporary Paris, this enchanting tale weaves together the past and present as it follows the journey of a young vampire named Marcus Whitmore. As he grapples with the complexities of his immortal existence, Marcus is drawn into a world of historical intrigue and personal transformation. Meanwhile, his human lover, Phoebe Taylor, embarks on her own path to becoming a vampire, navigating the challenges and wonders of her new life. Their intertwined stories explore themes of love, identity, and the timeless quest for belonging.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  22. 1372. Lord Of The Mysteries Volume 1 by Ai Qianshui de Wuzei

    The Fool's Journey

    Set in a world reminiscent of the Victorian era, this captivating tale follows Klein Moretti, a young man who finds himself entangled in a web of mystery and supernatural intrigue after an unexpected encounter with a mystical artifact. As he delves deeper into the enigmatic world of secret societies, ancient rituals, and arcane powers, Klein must navigate a landscape filled with danger and deception. With each revelation, he uncovers hidden truths about his own existence and the broader forces at play, all while striving to maintain his sanity and survive in a world where the line between reality and the mystical is perilously thin.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 1373. Reverend Insanity by Gu Zhen Re

    Set in a world where mystical creatures and powerful artifacts shape the destiny of its inhabitants, this story follows the journey of a cunning and ruthless protagonist who defies societal norms and moral boundaries to achieve his ambitions. Armed with a unique ability to control and refine Gu, magical insects with various powers, he navigates through a treacherous landscape of betrayal, alliances, and relentless pursuit of power. As he challenges the established order, his relentless drive and strategic mind reveal the complexities of human nature and the thin line between good and evil.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 1374. The Race by Nina Allan

    Set in a dystopian future, the narrative weaves through the lives of several interconnected characters in a world where environmental degradation and technological advancements have reshaped society. The story unfolds in the coastal town of Sapphire, where the inhabitants are deeply involved in the illegal sport of racing genetically modified greyhounds. As the characters navigate their personal struggles and ambitions, the novel explores themes of identity, loss, and the intricate bonds that tie individuals to their past and each other, ultimately questioning the nature of reality and the choices that define us.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  25. 1375. Christmas Days by Jeanette Winterson

    12 Stories and 12 Feasts for 12 Days

    This enchanting collection of twelve stories and twelve festive recipes captures the magic and warmth of the holiday season. Each tale is imbued with a sense of wonder, exploring themes of love, redemption, and the spirit of giving, while seamlessly weaving in elements of folklore, fantasy, and personal reflection. The accompanying recipes, ranging from traditional holiday fare to unique culinary delights, invite readers to savor the flavors of Christmas and create their own cherished memories. With its blend of storytelling and gastronomy, this book offers a heartwarming celebration of the season's joys and traditions.

    The 17175th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download

To download this list as a CSV file, please log in to your account. Once logged in, you'll be able to download the data for use in spreadsheet applications.

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