The Greatest Fantasy Books Since 1980
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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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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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76. The Stone Sky by N. K. Jemisin
The Broken Earth: Book Three
In this concluding volume of a groundbreaking fantasy trilogy, the fate of a world hangs in the balance as a mother and daughter find themselves on opposite sides of an apocalyptic war. The mother, an orogene with the power to control seismic activity, embarks on a quest to end the perpetual disasters plaguing the earth by harnessing the power of an ancient, mythical obelisk. Meanwhile, her daughter, who possesses similar abilities, is manipulated by forces seeking to use her powers for their own ends. As their paths converge, the complex layers of oppression, survival, and the struggle for freedom are revealed, culminating in a climactic battle that will determine the future of their world.
The 5275th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
77. A Storm Of Wings by M. John Harrison
In this science fiction novel, the second installment of a series, humanity grapples with the aftermath of a catastrophic event known as the Biotic Crisis. As reality itself begins to warp, the protagonist and a group of disparate characters navigate a world where the boundaries between human and alien, real and surreal, are increasingly blurred. They face the challenge of understanding and confronting the "Swarm," a mysterious and possibly sentient cloud of particles that threatens to engulf the planet. The narrative weaves a complex tapestry of themes including identity, transformation, and the struggle to maintain sanity in an environment that defies comprehension.
The 5326th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
78. Bridge of Birds by Barry Hughart
A Novel of an Ancient China That Never Was
"Bridge of Birds" is a fantasy novel set in ancient China, where a young man named Number Ten Ox sets out to find a cure for a mysterious illness that has befallen the children of his village. Along the way, he enlists the help of a wise and eccentric scholar named Master Li, and together they embark on a series of adventures that take them across the land. Along the way, they encounter gods, demons, and other supernatural beings, all while trying to uncover the truth behind the illness and save the children of the village.
The 5377th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
79. Glorious Exploits by Ferdia Lennon
Set on the island of Sicily during the Peloponnesian War, "Glorious Exploits" follows the story of Lampo and Gelon, two potters with a love for poetry and drink. They find themselves drawn to a rock quarry where captured Athenian soldiers are held. In exchange for food, the prisoners must recite lines from the works of Euripides. Inspired by this interaction, Lampo and Gelon decide to stage a production of the play "Medea" with the prisoners as actors. As the performance date nears, their seemingly lighthearted endeavor spirals into a series of unexpected events, revealing the transformative power of art and the complexities of friendship amidst conflict.
The 5425th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
80. The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson
In a world ravaged by ferocious storms and embroiled in war, three main characters navigate their own paths. Kaladin, a skilled soldier turned slave, struggles to protect his fellow slaves while grappling with his own inner demons. Shallan, a brilliant and ambitious scholar, is on a dangerous quest to steal a powerful artifact to save her family from ruin. Dalinar, a high-ranking military leader, is plagued by visions of ancient times and a mysterious warning. As their lives intertwine, they must confront their own truths and fight for survival in a world on the brink of destruction.
The 5446th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
81. This Is How You Lose The Time War by Amal El Mohtar, Max Gladstone
In this epistolary science fiction novel, two rival agents, Red and Blue, find themselves on opposite sides of a sprawling temporal conflict known as the Time War. As they carry out missions to manipulate the strands of history for their respective factions, their paths cross in unexpected ways. Through a series of secret letters left across time and space, what begins as taunting correspondence evolves into a deep, forbidden connection. The narrative weaves a complex tapestry of time-travel and intrigue, exploring themes of love, identity, and the consequences of actions within the ever-shifting sands of time. As their bond deepens, Red and Blue must ultimately decide where their loyalties lie and what sacrifices they are willing to make for a chance at a future together.
The 5581st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
82. Tea With The Black Dragon by R. A. MacAvoy
In this enchanting blend of fantasy and mystery, a mother searching for her missing daughter enlists the help of a mysterious man who possesses the ancient wisdom and power of a black dragon in human form. As they delve into the underbelly of California's Silicon Valley, they confront dark magic and computer crime, unraveling a complex web that ties the mundane to the mystical. The novel weaves a tale of transformation, redemption, and the enduring power of love, set against a backdrop where technology meets sorcery, and the modern world intersects with the timeless.
The 5656th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
83. The Saint Of Bright Doors by Vajra Chandrasekera
The novel follows the journey of Fetter, a young man born with a mysterious mark and destined for a significant role in a city filled with intrigue and hidden magic. As he navigates a world of saints, prophets, and enigmatic doors that promise transformation, Fetter grapples with questions of identity, destiny, and the nature of belief. The narrative weaves together themes of power, faith, and self-discovery, exploring the complexities of human experience in a richly imagined setting. Through Fetter's eyes, the story delves into the tension between personal agency and the weight of prophecy, ultimately challenging the boundaries of fate and free will.
The 5687th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
84. Ancillary Justice by Ann Leckie
The book is a science fiction novel that follows the story of Breq, who was once a powerful starship AI controlling many bodies, but is now trapped in a single human body and driven by a quest for vengeance. Set in a vast interstellar empire where ships and stations are inhabited by ancillary AIs, the narrative explores themes of identity, gender, and colonialism. Breq's journey intertwines with flashbacks to her past experiences as an AI, revealing her complex relationship with a former officer and the events that led to her current mission. As she navigates political intrigue and battles, Breq challenges the empire's rigid structures and seeks to address the injustices within it.
The 5701st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
85. The Scar by China Miéville
This novel transports readers to a fantastical world of piracy, politics, and magic on the high seas. Set in the same universe as its predecessor, it follows a linguist who, after fleeing her war-torn city, becomes embroiled in the complex society of Armada, a city made of pirated ships. The narrative weaves together themes of power, identity, and rebellion, as the inhabitants of Armada embark on a perilous quest to harness the power of a mythical sea creature. Rich in imaginative detail and populated with a diverse cast of characters, the story explores the depths of human ambition and the lengths to which people will go to achieve their desires.
The 5761st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
86. A Promise Of Fire by Amanda Bouchet
The Kingmaker Chronicles
In a world where magic and power dictate the social hierarchy, a powerful soothsayer named Cat hides her extraordinary abilities to escape her dark past. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she is captured by Griffin, a warlord determined to unite the kingdoms under his rule. As they embark on a perilous journey, Cat is forced to confront her fears and secrets while navigating a complex relationship with Griffin, who sees her as the key to his ambitions. Amidst political intrigue and burgeoning romance, Cat must decide whether to embrace her destiny or continue running from it.
The 5934th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
87. The Wandering Fire by Guy Gavriel Kay
Book Two of The Fionavar Tapestry
In this fantasy novel, a group of young men and women from our own world find themselves transported to a realm where myth and magic reign. They become embroiled in a desperate struggle to fulfill an ancient prophecy and combat a dark sorcery that threatens to engulf both worlds. As they journey through this enchanted land, they encounter legendary figures and creatures, and must come to terms with their own destinies. With the fate of two worlds hanging in the balance, they must harness their newfound abilities and face the malevolent force that seeks to extinguish the light of both the realms they have come to cherish.
The 5948th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
88. The Darkest Road by Guy Gavriel Kay
In the epic conclusion to a high fantasy trilogy, a group of diverse characters face the ultimate battle against an ancient evil that threatens both their magical world and the very fabric of reality. As the forces of light and darkness prepare for a final confrontation, the heroes must grapple with personal sacrifices, complex moral dilemmas, and the weight of destiny. Their journey is fraught with loss, love, and the struggle to maintain hope in the face of overwhelming darkness. The narrative weaves together themes of power, redemption, and the enduring human spirit, culminating in a climactic resolution that will determine the fate of their world and the lives of all who inhabit it.
The 6077th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
89. A Knight In Shining Armor by Jude Deveraux
Transported back in time to 16th-century England, a modern-day woman finds herself entangled in a whirlwind romance with a dashing knight. As she navigates the challenges of a bygone era, she discovers the true meaning of love, courage, and destiny. With the help of her knight, she embarks on a journey to uncover secrets that transcend time, ultimately learning that the power of love can bridge even the greatest of divides. This enchanting tale weaves together elements of history, romance, and adventure, creating a timeless story of passion and hope.
The 6076th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
90. All the Birds in the Sky by Charlie Jane Anders
This novel blends science fiction and fantasy, telling the story of two outcasts, a witch and a tech genius, who meet as children and then part ways, only to reunite as adults in a world teetering on the brink of catastrophe. As the planet faces environmental collapse and the threat of war, the pair must navigate their differences and their past to harness their extraordinary abilities. Their friendship becomes the key to survival, as they confront forces that could either save humanity or lead to its destruction, blurring the lines between magic and science in an uncertain future.
The 6090th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
91. A Storm Of Swords by George R. R. Martin
Steel and Snow
In this epic fantasy novel, the third installment of a series, the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros are engulfed in a brutal civil war with multiple factions vying for the Iron Throne. As treachery and magic intertwine, characters navigate complex political intrigues and battle for survival amidst a landscape where seasons can last for years. The narrative weaves together the fates of noble families, with key figures facing betrayals, forming alliances, and confronting supernatural threats. The book is renowned for its unexpected plot twists, including shocking deaths and strategic marriages, all leading to a climax that reshapes the power dynamics of the realm.
The 6104th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
92. The Lives Of Christopher Chant by Diana Wynne Jones
In this enchanting fantasy novel, a young boy discovers his remarkable ability to travel between worlds while he sleeps. Unbeknownst to him, his gift makes him a valuable asset in the eyes of his uncle, who uses him to smuggle magical artifacts. As the boy grows, he learns more about his powers and the ethereal realm known as the Related Worlds. He must navigate the complexities of his family's expectations, his unique abilities, and an impending magical conflict. With the help of a talking cat and other peculiar friends he meets along the way, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and must decide where his loyalties lie and how to use his gifts for the greater good.
The 6122nd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
93. One Piece by Eiichiro Oda
The book is a thrilling adventure that follows a young, ambitious pirate whose dream is to find the world's ultimate treasure, known as "One Piece," and thereby become the Pirate King. Along his journey, he gathers a diverse crew of loyal companions, each with their own unique abilities and dreams. They sail the Grand Line, facing off against other pirates, the World Government, and various powerful enemies, all while exploring mysterious islands, uncovering hidden secrets, and forging strong bonds of friendship. The story is renowned for its intricate plot, dynamic characters, and a world rich with fantastical elements and lore.
The 6196th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
94. A Discovery Of Witches by Deborah Harkness
This novel unfolds the tale of Diana Bishop, a young scholar and descendant of witches, who stumbles upon a bewitched manuscript in Oxford's Bodleian Library. Her discovery pulls her back into the world of magic, propelling her into the heart of a dangerous mystery. Alongside Matthew Clairmont, a mysterious vampire and geneticist, Diana is thrust into a forbidden alliance and an enchanted journey through time. As they seek to understand the manuscript's secrets, they must navigate the perilous waters of forbidden love and the age-old enmities among witches, vampires, and daemons, unraveling a history that threatens the fragile peace that has long existed between creatures and humans.
The 6244th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
95. Miss Peregrine's Home For Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
This novel follows the story of a young boy who, after a family tragedy, discovers an abandoned orphanage on a remote Welsh island. As he explores the decrepit building, he finds peculiar photographs that lead him to uncover the existence of children with extraordinary abilities and a dangerous secret. The boy learns that these children are protected by a bird who can manipulate time, and he must help them fight off creatures intent on destroying them. Blending fantasy with haunting vintage photography, the story weaves a tale of adventure, bravery, and the importance of accepting one's uniqueness.
The 6296th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
96. The Priory Of The Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
In this epic fantasy novel, a divided world faces the threat of awakening draconic forces. The narrative weaves together the stories of a queendom without an heir, a hidden priory dedicated to a secret mission, and distant lands with contrasting beliefs about dragons. As the ancient enemy stirs, a disparate group of characters, including a queen who must secure her throne, a dragon-riding warrior from the East, and a mage with a personal vendetta, must overcome deep-seated prejudices and historical enmities to forge an alliance. The fate of their world hinges on their ability to unite and confront the encroaching darkness brought forth by the return of a legendary fire-breathing beast.
The 6375th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
97. Dark Prince by Christine Feehan
A Carpathian Novel
The book is a paranormal romance that follows the story of a powerful and enigmatic Carpathian male who is on the brink of losing his humanity. He finds hope and salvation in a strong-willed human woman with psychic abilities, who is unaware of her own potential. As they navigate a world filled with danger and darkness, they must confront their own fears and desires, forging a deep and passionate bond that could either save or destroy them. Their journey is fraught with challenges from both external threats and internal struggles, as they learn to trust and rely on each other to overcome the shadows that threaten their love and existence.
The 6404th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
98. All Systems Red by Martha Wells
The Murderbot Diaries
In this science fiction novella, a self-aware security android, which has secretly hacked its own governor module to gain autonomy, refers to itself as "Murderbot." Despite its disinterest in human affairs, Murderbot finds itself compelled to protect the human crew it is assigned to on a distant planet after a series of mysterious and dangerous events unfold. Struggling with its own identity and the desire to remain unnoticed, Murderbot must navigate the complexities of human interaction and its own past, all while ensuring the safety of its charges from unknown threats.
The 6413th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
99. The Year's Best Fantasy And Horror by Ellen Datlow
Seventeenth Annual Collection
This anthology is a curated collection of outstanding fantasy and horror stories from various authors, showcasing a diverse range of imaginative and chilling narratives. The compilation features a mix of established and emerging voices, each contributing unique tales that explore the boundaries of the fantastical and the macabre. Themes range from mythical creatures and magical realms to psychological horror and supernatural occurrences, offering readers a rich tapestry of storytelling that captivates and thrills. The anthology serves as both a celebration of the genres and a testament to the creativity and depth of contemporary fantasy and horror literature.
The 6515th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
100. A Stranger In Olondria by Sofia Samatar
Being the Complete Memoirs of the Mystic, Jevick of Tyom
The novel explores the transformative power of literature through the eyes of a young pepper merchant from a remote island who, upon visiting the sophisticated and literate land of Olondria, becomes haunted by the ghost of an illiterate girl. As he navigates the complex cultural landscape, he finds himself embroiled in a political and religious conflict surrounding the nature of literacy, storytelling, and the written word. The protagonist's journey is a rich tapestry of sensory experiences and a poignant meditation on the ways in which stories define and give meaning to our lives.
The 6533rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
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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.
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