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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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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626. The Girl Who Fell Beneath The Sea by Axie Oh
In a world where storms ravage the land, a young girl sacrifices herself to the Sea God in hopes of ending the chaos and saving her people. As she descends into the spirit realm beneath the sea, she discovers a realm filled with mythical creatures and ancient magic. There, she must navigate a web of intrigue and deception, unraveling the mysteries of the Sea God's curse while forging unexpected alliances. Her journey becomes one of self-discovery, courage, and love, as she learns that destiny is not always what it seems, and the power to change one's fate lies within.
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627. коти вояки. книга 1. на волю! by Erin Hunter
На волю!
In this thrilling tale, a young house cat named Rusty embarks on a daring adventure as he leaves the comforts of his human home to join a wild clan of warrior cats living in the forest. As he navigates the challenges of his new life, Rusty, now known as Firepaw, must prove his worth and loyalty to his new clanmates while uncovering the secrets and rivalries that threaten their survival. Through trials of bravery, friendship, and betrayal, Firepaw learns the true meaning of courage and the importance of unity in the face of danger.
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628. Shakespeare For Squirrels by Christopher Moore
In this whimsical and irreverent tale, the mischievous and quick-witted Pocket of Dog Snogging finds himself embroiled in a murder mystery set in the enchanted forest of Athens. Tasked with solving the untimely death of a mischievous sprite, Pocket navigates a world filled with fairies, lovers, and a bumbling troupe of actors. With his trusty monkey, Jeff, and the loyal Drool by his side, Pocket must unravel the tangled web of magic and deception, all while dodging the ire of the fairy king and queen. This comedic adventure blends elements of fantasy, humor, and Shakespearean intrigue, offering a fresh and entertaining twist on a classic tale.
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629. Fool by Christopher Moore
Set in a vividly reimagined medieval England, this irreverent and humorous tale follows the mischievous and quick-witted court jester, Pocket, as he navigates the treacherous political landscape of a kingdom on the brink of chaos. With a sharp tongue and a knack for getting into trouble, Pocket finds himself embroiled in a web of deceit, betrayal, and murder, all while trying to protect his beloved King Lear and the kingdom from ruin. Through a series of clever schemes and unexpected alliances, Pocket must outwit his adversaries and uncover the truth behind the sinister plots threatening the realm, all while delivering a satirical twist on a classic Shakespearean tragedy.
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630. Deadhouse Gates by Steven Erikson
A Tale of the Malazan Book of the Fallen
In a world teetering on the brink of chaos, a diverse cast of characters embarks on a perilous journey across the desert continent of Seven Cities, where rebellion and ancient magic threaten to unravel the fabric of civilization. As the Malazan Empire struggles to maintain control, a brutal uprising known as the Whirlwind sweeps through the land, led by the enigmatic and vengeful Sha'ik. Amidst the turmoil, a group of soldiers, refugees, and mages must navigate treacherous alliances and confront their own inner demons to survive the relentless onslaught of war and betrayal. With epic battles, intricate political intrigue, and profound themes of loyalty and sacrifice, this tale weaves a complex tapestry of human resilience and the relentless pursuit of power.
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631. The Immortals Of Meluha by Amish Tripathi
The Shiva Trilogy
Set in the mystical land of Meluha, the story follows Shiva, a fierce tribal leader from the Himalayas, who is drawn into a world of ancient myths and divine destinies. As he navigates the complexities of this advanced civilization, Shiva is hailed as the prophesied savior, the Neelkanth, destined to lead the Meluhans against their sworn enemies, the Chandravanshis. Amidst political intrigue, philosophical dilemmas, and personal revelations, Shiva embarks on a transformative journey that challenges his beliefs and reshapes his understanding of good and evil, ultimately leading him to discover his true purpose in a world teetering on the brink of chaos.
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632. Secret Wars by Jonathan Hickman
In a universe on the brink of collapse, the multiverse's survival hinges on the convergence of various realities into a single, chaotic Battleworld ruled by the enigmatic God Emperor Doom. As heroes and villains from different dimensions are forced to navigate this fractured world, alliances are tested, and loyalties are questioned. Amidst the chaos, a group of survivors from the original universe seeks to restore their world, challenging Doom's reign and uncovering the secrets behind the cataclysmic event. This epic tale explores themes of power, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of heroism in the face of overwhelming odds.
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633. The Republic Of Thieves by Scott Lynch
In this thrilling continuation of the Gentlemen Bastards series, the story follows the cunning and charismatic con artist Locke Lamora and his loyal companion Jean Tannen as they face their most formidable challenge yet. Tasked with rigging an election in the city of Karthain, they find themselves pitted against a rival team led by Sabetha, Locke's former lover and equal in wit and guile. As political intrigue, old rivalries, and romantic tensions intertwine, Locke and Sabetha must navigate a world where deception is the norm, and the stakes are higher than ever. With a blend of humor, suspense, and intricate world-building, this tale explores themes of loyalty, love, and the blurred lines between friend and foe.
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634. The Beautiful Ones by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Set in a world reminiscent of the Belle Époque era, this enchanting tale weaves together themes of love, ambition, and the supernatural. The story follows Nina, a young woman with telekinetic abilities, as she navigates the social intricacies of the Grand Season, a time when the elite gather to showcase their wealth and status. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Hector, a charismatic performer with a mysterious past, who becomes both her mentor and her love interest. As their relationship deepens, they must confront societal expectations, personal betrayals, and the haunting shadows of the past, all while exploring the boundaries of their extraordinary powers.
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635. Thornhedge by T. Kingfisher
In a whimsical twist on the classic fairy tale, this enchanting story follows Toadling, a gentle and misunderstood creature tasked with guarding a cursed princess trapped in a tower. As centuries pass, Toadling's quiet life is disrupted by the arrival of a determined knight, who is intent on breaking the curse. Through a blend of humor, heart, and unexpected revelations, the narrative explores themes of identity, duty, and the complexities of heroism, ultimately challenging the traditional notions of good and evil in a world where appearances can be deceiving.
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636. Latro In The Mist by Gene Wolfe
Set in the ancient world, the story follows a soldier who suffers from a unique form of amnesia, causing him to forget everything each day. As he navigates through a landscape filled with gods, mythical creatures, and historical figures, he records his experiences in a scroll to piece together his fragmented memories. His journey is a quest for identity and understanding, as he encounters various cultures and battles, all while trying to uncover the truth about his past and the mysterious forces that influence his life. The narrative weaves a rich tapestry of history and fantasy, exploring themes of memory, identity, and the nature of reality.
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637. The Drowned Life by Jeffrey Ford
In a world where the boundaries between reality and the surreal blur, a collection of short stories explores the depths of human experience, weaving together elements of fantasy, mystery, and the uncanny. Each tale delves into the complexities of life, revealing the hidden truths and peculiarities that lie beneath the surface of everyday existence. Through a series of imaginative narratives, the reader is invited to journey through a landscape where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and the familiar is transformed into something wondrously strange.
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638. What Should Be Wild by Julia Fine
In a world where the boundaries between life and death blur, a young girl named Maisie Cothay possesses a unique and dangerous power: her touch can kill or resurrect. Raised in isolation by her father, Maisie is shielded from the world until his sudden disappearance forces her to venture beyond the confines of her sheltered existence. As she navigates a mysterious forest filled with women cursed by a similar fate, Maisie uncovers secrets about her family's past and the true nature of her abilities, leading her on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
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639. Tales Of Falling And Flying by Ben Loory
This collection of whimsical and surreal short stories invites readers into a world where the boundaries of reality are delightfully blurred. Each tale is a unique exploration of the human experience, filled with unexpected twists and profound insights. Characters encounter bizarre situations, from a man befriending an octopus to a duck that falls in love with a rock, all while navigating themes of love, fear, and the search for meaning. The stories are both humorous and poignant, offering a fresh perspective on the ordinary and the extraordinary aspects of life.
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640. The Sorcerer Of The Wildeeps by Kai Ashante Wilson
A Tor.com Original
In a world where ancient magic and modern technology intertwine, a caravan journey through the perilous Wildeeps becomes a test of survival and identity for its diverse group of travelers. At the heart of the story is Demane, a skilled healer and warrior with mysterious powers, who must confront both external threats and his own inner turmoil. As the caravan faces deadly beasts and treacherous terrain, Demane's bond with his enigmatic lover, Captain, deepens, revealing the complexities of love, loyalty, and the struggle to reconcile one's past with the present. This tale weaves together themes of brotherhood, sacrifice, and the enduring quest for belonging.
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641. Ring Shout by P. Djèlí Clark
Or, Hunting Ku Kluxes in the End Times
Set in an alternate 1920s America, this gripping tale weaves together history, horror, and fantasy as it follows Maryse Boudreaux, a fearless monster hunter, and her band of resistance fighters. They battle against supernatural Ku Klux Klan members, who are not just men but demonic creatures known as "Ku Kluxes." As Maryse wields her magical sword and taps into the power of ancient African traditions, she uncovers a sinister plot that threatens to unleash an unimaginable evil upon the world. The story is a powerful exploration of racism, resistance, and the enduring strength of community and culture.
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642. The Tales Of Beedle The Bard by J. K. Rowling
This enchanting collection of five fairy tales, beloved in the wizarding world, weaves together magical narratives that impart timeless lessons on morality, courage, and the power of love. Each story, from the heartwarming "The Tale of the Three Brothers" to the whimsical "The Fountain of Fair Fortune," is accompanied by insightful commentary from the esteemed wizard Albus Dumbledore, offering readers a deeper understanding of the tales' significance and their enduring impact on both magical and non-magical communities. Through these stories, readers are invited to explore themes of kindness, wisdom, and the consequences of one's choices, making them a cherished addition to the lore of the wizarding world.
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643. Nona The Ninth by Tamsyn Muir
In a world teetering on the brink of apocalypse, a girl named Nona finds herself at the center of a cosmic struggle, grappling with her identity and the mysterious powers she possesses. As she navigates a city under siege, Nona forms unexpected alliances with a diverse group of characters, each with their own secrets and agendas. Amidst the chaos, she must confront her past and the enigmatic forces that threaten to unravel the very fabric of reality. With themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the search for belonging, this tale weaves a complex narrative that challenges the boundaries of life and death.
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644. Moxyland by Lauren Beukes
Set in a dystopian near-future Cape Town, the story follows four diverse characters whose lives intersect in a society dominated by corporate control and digital surveillance. Each character, from a rebellious artist to a corporate employee, navigates a world where technology dictates social status and personal freedom is a commodity. As they grapple with their roles in this hyper-connected society, they uncover the dark underbelly of a system that prioritizes profit over humanity, leading to a gripping exploration of power, identity, and resistance in a tech-driven world.
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645. The Sapling Cage by Margaret Killjoy
A Novella of the Future
In "The Sapling Cage," Lorel dreams of becoming a witch, eager to learn magic and explore beyond her small town. Despite a mysterious plague affecting the trees and witches being blamed, Lorel is determined to join their ranks. However, there's a challenge: witches are traditionally women, and Lorel was born a boy. When a coven arrives to recruit her best friend, Lorel seizes the opportunity, disguising herself to join them. As she delves into the world of magic, she uncovers dark forces threatening the kingdom and must navigate her new life while keeping her true identity hidden.
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646. The Witch's Heart by Genevieve Gornichec
In a captivating reimagining of Norse mythology, the story follows Angrboda, a powerful witch whose heart is stolen by the trickster god Loki. As she retreats to a remote forest to heal, she finds solace and love, eventually giving birth to three children with destinies intertwined with the fate of the gods. As the threat of Ragnarok looms, Angrboda must navigate the delicate balance between her love for her family and the inevitable chaos that threatens to unravel the world, all while reclaiming her own power and identity in a realm where gods and mortals collide.
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647. The Dark King Swallows The World by Robert G. Penner
In the midst of World War II, young Nora finds herself alone in Cornwall after a tragic car accident claims her younger half-brother. As her mother becomes entangled with Olaf Winter, a mysterious figure Nora suspects is linked to the tragedy, she sets off on a daring quest. Her journey leads her into a fantastical realm filled with faeries, giants, and magical creatures. Determined to mend her family, Nora ventures into the land of the dead to face the dark king, hoping to reunite with her brother and restore her mother's spirit.
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648. A River Enchanted by Rebecca Ross
A Novel
Set on the mystical island of Cadence, the story follows Jack Tamerlaine, a bard returning home after a decade away, as he is drawn into a world of enchantment and mystery. The island's spirits have become restless, and young girls are vanishing without a trace. Teaming up with his childhood adversary, Adaira, the heiress of the East, Jack must unravel the island's secrets and confront the magical forces at play. As they delve deeper into the island's lore, they discover that the key to saving their home may lie in the songs of the past and the power of unity.
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649. A Market Of Dreams And Destiny by Trip Galey
In a world where dreams and destinies are traded like commodities, the story follows the journey of a young dream merchant who stumbles upon a mysterious and powerful dream that could alter the fate of the market and its inhabitants. As she navigates through a web of intrigue, alliances, and betrayals, she must confront her own desires and fears to protect the fragile balance between dreams and reality. With the stakes higher than ever, she discovers the true cost of ambition and the power of hope in a market where every choice can change the course of destiny.
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650. The Garden by Clare Beams
In 1948, Irene Willard, who has experienced multiple miscarriages, arrives at a secluded house in the Berkshires. This facility, run by a couple of doctors, promises a groundbreaking treatment for her condition. As Irene navigates the doctors' unconventional methods, she stumbles upon a hidden garden on the property. This garden, with its mysterious allure, becomes a focal point for Irene and the other women at the facility. As the doctors' plans unravel, the women are drawn to the garden's enigmatic power, leading them to confront the potential dangers and rewards it holds. **The Garden** explores themes of motherhood, the female body, and the societal pressures surrounding them.
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