The Greatest Fantasy Books Since 2000

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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. 426. Dragon Pearl by Yoon Ha Lee

    "Dragon Pearl" is a science fiction novel that follows the story of Min, a young fox spirit who dreams of leaving her impoverished planet and joining the Space Forces like her older brother Jun. When Jun is accused of deserting his post to search for the mythical Dragon Pearl, Min sets out to clear his name and find the pearl herself. Along the way, she discovers secrets about her family and the universe that threaten to unravel everything she knows. With the help of new friends and her shape-shifting abilities, Min embarks on a thrilling adventure filled with danger and discovery.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 427. Pahua and the Soul Stealer by Lori Lee

    A Pandava Novel

    "Pahua and the Soul Stealer" is a thrilling adventure story set in a mystical world where a young girl named Pahua must embark on a dangerous journey to save her village from a soul-stealing monster. With the help of her friends, Pahua sets out to find the monster's lair and put an end to its reign of terror. Along the way, she discovers the true strength of her own spirit and the power of friendship and determination. This captivating tale is filled with magic, suspense, and heart, making it a must-read for young readers who love action-packed fantasy stories.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  3. 428. Root Magic by Eden Royce

    "Root Magic" is a middle-grade novel set in the 1960s in the Gullah community of South Carolina. The story follows twins Jezebel and Jay as they navigate their family's legacy of root magic, a form of African American folk magic. When their grandmother, who was the family's root worker, dies, they must learn to harness their own magical abilities to protect their family and community from a dangerous outsider who threatens to destroy their way of life. Along the way, they discover the power of family, friendship, and their ancestral heritage.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  4. 429. Monstress Vol. 1 by Marjorie Liu

    Awakening

    In a war-torn world where humans and magical creatures coexist, a young girl named Maika struggles to control the monstrous power within her. Haunted by her past and driven by vengeance, she embarks on a dangerous journey to uncover the truth about her mother's death. Along the way, she allies with a talking cat and encounters a secret society of powerful witches. With stunning artwork and a gripping storyline, this dark and immersive graphic novel explores themes of identity, trauma, and the price of power.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  5. 430. A Bride's Story by Kaoru Mori

    "A Bride's Story" by Kaoru Mori is a captivating historical manga that follows the life of Amir Halgal, a young woman from a nomadic tribe in Central Asia during the 19th century. Set in a time of arranged marriages and cultural traditions, the story beautifully explores Amir's journey as she navigates the challenges and joys of becoming a bride. With stunning artwork and intricate details, the book offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of life in a bygone era, highlighting themes of love, family, and the resilience of women.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  6. 431. Alice by Christina Henry

    The Chronicles of Alice

    In this dark and twisted retelling of a classic fairytale, Alice finds herself trapped in a nightmarish version of Wonderland. With the help of a mysterious man named Hatcher, she embarks on a dangerous journey to escape the clutches of the sadistic ruler known as the Rabbit. As they navigate through the grotesque and violent world, Alice and Hatcher uncover the truth about their own pasts and must confront their inner demons in order to survive.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  7. 432. The Lamb Will Slaughter The Lion by Margaret Killjoy

    A Danielle Cain Novella

    In a small town filled with anarchists and magical creatures, a group of friends embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind the sudden appearance of a mysterious and vengeful spirit, known as the "Lamb." As they delve deeper into the dark secrets of the community, they must confront their own beliefs and ideals, challenging the very essence of their existence. With tension rising and danger lurking at every corner, the friends must navigate a treacherous path to find the answers they seek, all while facing the inevitable clash between power and freedom.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  8. 433. Dactyl Hill Squad by Daniel José Older

    "Dactyl Hill Squad" is an adventurous historical fiction novel set during the Civil War era. The story follows a group of young orphaned children who possess the ability to communicate with dinosaurs. When their home is attacked and their caretaker is kidnapped, they join a secret society of young rebels who ride dinosaurs to fight against the oppressive forces of the Confederacy. With their unique abilities and newfound allies, the children embark on a dangerous mission to rescue their friend and bring justice to their war-torn world.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  9. 434. Worm Loves Worm by J.J Austrian

    In this heartwarming children's book, two worms fall in love and decide to get married. However, their friends and family can't seem to understand their unconventional wedding plans. With a message of acceptance and love, "Worm Loves Worm" teaches young readers the importance of embracing diversity and challenging traditional norms.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  10. 435. The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson

    "The Day You Begin" is a heartfelt picture book that explores the feelings of loneliness, fear, and the courage to be oneself. Through relatable stories and beautiful illustrations, the book encourages readers to embrace their unique identities, celebrate their differences, and find the strength to connect with others, even when it feels difficult. It is a powerful reminder that everyone has a story worth sharing and that true connection begins when we have the courage to step out and be ourselves.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  11. 436. Drum Dream Girl by Margarita Engle

    How One Girl's Courage Changed Music

    "Drum Dream Girl" is a captivating children's book that tells the inspiring true story of a young girl in 1930s Cuba who dreams of playing the drums. Despite societal expectations and cultural norms that prohibit girls from playing music, the determined protagonist follows her passion and breaks barriers, ultimately becoming the first female drummer in Cuba. Through vivid illustrations and poetic storytelling, the book celebrates the power of dreams, perseverance, and the importance of challenging societal limitations.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  12. 437. The Deadman’s Pedal by Alan Warner

    "The Deadman's Pedal" is a coming-of-age novel set in a small Scottish town in the 1970s. It follows the life of Simon Crimmons, a young trainee signalman who becomes infatuated with a local girl, Nikki, and finds himself caught up in the complexities of adult relationships and the harsh realities of working-class life. The story explores themes of love, loss, and the struggle to find one's place in a changing world, painting a vivid picture of a community on the brink of transformation.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  13. 438. Words Of Radiance by Brandon Sanderson, Kate Reading, Michael Kramer

    The Stormlight Archive Book Two

    In this epic fantasy sequel, the world of Roshar is further explored, with ancient oaths and legendary heroes coming to the forefront as the battle against the enigmatic and destructive forces known as the Voidbringers intensifies. The narrative follows multiple characters, including a once-slave who rises to become a military leader, a brilliant but troubled scholar who seeks forbidden knowledge, and a highprince burdened by his past and the expectations of his position. As they navigate political intrigue, ancient prophecies, and their own personal demons, their stories intertwine, revealing secrets about the mystical Knights Radiant and the true nature of the world-threatening Desolation that looms ever closer.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 439. Fledgling by Octavia E. Butler

    "Fledgling" is a novel that blends science fiction with vampire lore, telling the story of a young amnesiac girl who discovers she is actually a genetically modified, 53-year-old vampire. As she slowly regains her memories, she learns about her unique vampire family, their complex societal structures, and the symbiotic relationships they maintain with humans. The narrative delves into themes of identity, race, sexuality, and consent, challenging traditional vampire myths while exploring the implications of power dynamics and prejudice within a reimagined society where vampires and humans coexist in a tenuous balance.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  15. 440. The Looking Glass Wars by Frank Beddor

    Seeing Redd

    In this imaginative retelling of a classic tale, the story transports readers to a fantastical parallel universe where the familiar narrative of Wonderland is turned on its head. The protagonist, a young princess, is forced to flee her queendom after a violent coup led by her malevolent aunt. Finding herself in Victorian England, she struggles to convince anyone of her true identity and the existence of her otherworldly home. As she grows into a fierce warrior, she must gather allies and harness her own inner strength to reclaim her throne, challenging the distorted reflections of reality and confronting the dark forces that seek to control the imagination and power of her realm.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  16. 441. The Other Wind by Ursula K. Le Guin

    In this fantasy novel, the last in its series, the narrative follows a former goatherd who has become a powerful mage, as he grapples with troubling dreams of the dead calling to the living. The story explores themes of mortality, the afterlife, and the need for cultural and spiritual reconciliation. As the mage and a cast of diverse characters, including a dragon, a young woman with half-dragon heritage, and a disenchanted princess, embark on a quest to heal the breach between the worlds of the living and the dead, they confront ancient wrongs and seek to restore the balance of magic in their world. The novel delves into the consequences of past actions and the importance of understanding and respecting the natural order.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  17. 442. The Facts Of Life by Graham Joyce

    "The Facts of Life" is a novel that blends historical fiction with magical realism, set against the backdrop of post-World War II England. It tells the story of the Vine family, particularly focusing on Cassie, a young woman with a unique gift that sets her apart from her six sisters. The narrative explores themes of family, love, and the supernatural, as Cassie navigates the complexities of her abilities and the challenges of her time. The story weaves together the personal and the historical, examining the impact of war on individuals and society, while also delving into the mystical and the unexplained aspects of human experience.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  18. 443. Tooth And Claw by Jo Walton

    In a Victorian-inspired society inhabited by dragons, the novel weaves a tale of family, inheritance, and societal norms. Following the death of a patriarch, his offspring find themselves embroiled in a struggle over his legacy, confronting issues of class, gender, and power. The story challenges the characters' morality and the very fabric of their draconic culture, where strength and ruthlessness are often valued over compassion and justice. As the siblings navigate their complex social hierarchy, they must also deal with personal ambitions, romantic entanglements, and the harsh realities of their predatory nature.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  19. 444. Soldier Of Sidon by Gene Wolfe

    In this historical fantasy novel, the protagonist, a soldier with a past shrouded in mystery, embarks on a perilous journey through ancient lands. Suffering from amnesia, he is guided by the gods and accompanied by a cast of diverse characters, including a necromancer and a mysterious woman who may hold the key to his forgotten identity. As they sail down the Nile into the heart of Egypt, they encounter magic, mythical creatures, and the politics of the divine, all while the soldier struggles to reclaim his memories and fulfill his destiny amidst the rich tapestry of the ancient world.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  20. 445. Ysabel by Guy Gavriel Kay

    In this contemporary fantasy novel, a teenage boy accompanies his photographer father to Provence, where he becomes entangled in an ancient, recurring struggle involving Celtic and Roman forces, as well as a love triangle that has spanned millennia. As the past and present converge, the boy discovers he has a critical role to play in this timeless conflict, with the help of a mysterious girl and a druid. The narrative weaves together historical fiction with magical elements, exploring themes of love, destiny, and the enduring power of stories.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  21. 446. Osama by Lavie Tidhar

    The First Casualty

    In this genre-blending novel, a private detective is drawn into a surreal world where pulp fiction and reality intertwine. Tasked with finding a mysterious woman who appears in countless books and films, the detective's journey takes him across a fragmented landscape, where he encounters alternate versions of historical events and figures. As he delves deeper, the boundaries between his own existence and the fictional world of a notorious terrorist begin to blur, leading to a haunting exploration of identity, myth, and the nature of truth.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  22. 447. Trouble The Saints by Alaya Dawn Johnson

    Set against the backdrop of New York City on the brink of World War II, this novel weaves a tale of magic, danger, and moral ambiguity. It follows the lives of three individuals: a talented African-American woman who passes for white and possesses the uncanny ability to discern people's deepest secrets, her lover who is drawn into the underworld, and her best friend who harbors her own hidden powers. As they navigate a world rife with gangsters and espionage, their magical gifts will either be their salvation or their downfall. The story delves into themes of race, power, and the cost of redemption, painting a vivid picture of a society where the lines between right and wrong are blurred and the stakes are life and death.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  23. 448. The Jasmine Throne by Tasha Suri

    In this epic fantasy novel, a captive princess and a maidservant in possession of forbidden magic form an unlikely alliance to overthrow a tyrannical regime. Set in a world inspired by the history and epics of India, the story weaves together the fates of these two women who must navigate treacherous court politics, ancient prophecies, and their own burgeoning powers. As they fight against the oppressive structures of the empire, their bond grows deeper, challenging the societal norms and the very foundation of the empire. The novel explores themes of resistance, sacrifice, and the complex nature of power and love.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  24. 449. Saint Death's Daughter by C. S. E. Cooney

    In this darkly whimsical fantasy, a young woman with an unusual talent for necromancy navigates a perilous world of political intrigue and family secrets. As the daughter of a feared assassin and a powerful necromancer, she inherits a legacy of death that she must come to terms with. With her ability to communicate with the dead, she finds herself caught between the living and the deceased, while trying to carve out her own path and protect those she loves in a realm where magic is both a gift and a curse. Her journey is one of self-discovery, resilience, and the quest to understand the true nature of her powers amidst the machinations of those who seek to use her lineage for their own ends.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  25. 450. Harsh Cry Of The Heron by Lian Hearn

    The Last Tale of the Otori

    "Harsh Cry of the Heron" is set in a mythical, feudal Japan-like setting and continues the tale of the Otori clan, focusing on Lord Takeo and his efforts to maintain peace across the Three Countries. Despite his commitment to a peaceful reign and the abolishment of violent practices like warfare and capital punishment, Takeo faces inevitable betrayal and threats from within his own ranks and from external enemies. As prophecies of doom surface, Takeo struggles with maintaining his ideals and the harsh realities of leadership, leading to a dramatic and poignant conclusion that tests the limits of loyalty, honor, and sacrifice.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon

Reading Statistics

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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.

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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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