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. 701. Wintersmith by Terry Pratchett

    In this enchanting tale, a young witch-in-training named Tiffany Aching inadvertently attracts the attention of the Wintersmith, the elemental spirit of winter, during a dance meant only for the gods. As the Wintersmith becomes infatuated with Tiffany, the balance of the seasons is thrown into chaos, threatening the very fabric of the world. With the help of her fellow witches and the mischievous Nac Mac Feegle, Tiffany must navigate the complexities of magic, identity, and responsibility to restore order and find her place in the world.

    The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 702. The Christmas Pig by J. K. Rowling

    In this enchanting tale, a young boy named Jack embarks on a magical adventure on Christmas Eve to rescue his beloved toy pig, DP, who has been lost. Guided by the Christmas Pig, a new toy gifted to him, Jack ventures into the Land of the Lost, a whimsical world where lost things go. Together, they navigate through various realms, encountering both allies and adversaries, as they race against time to save DP before he disappears forever. This heartwarming story explores themes of love, loss, and the power of hope, capturing the essence of the holiday spirit.

    The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  3. 703. Messenger by Lois Lowry

    Set in a dystopian world, the narrative follows a young boy named Matty who lives in a seemingly utopian village known for its acceptance and harmony. As the community begins to change, becoming more self-centered and closed off, Matty discovers he possesses a unique healing power. Tasked with a crucial mission to deliver messages and bring back those who have been turned away, he embarks on a perilous journey through a treacherous forest. Along the way, Matty learns about sacrifice, the true meaning of community, and the importance of using one's gifts for the greater good.

    The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  4. 704. Saltatempo by Stefano Benni

    Romanzo

    Set in a small Italian village, this enchanting tale follows the life of a young boy gifted with a magical watch that allows him to leap through time. As he navigates the complexities of growing up, he encounters a colorful cast of characters, each with their own dreams and struggles. The narrative weaves through pivotal moments in history, blending humor, fantasy, and poignant reflections on the passage of time. Through his adventures, the protagonist learns valuable lessons about love, friendship, and the bittersweet nature of change.

    The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  5. 705. The Book Of Life by Deborah Harkness

    In the thrilling conclusion to the All Souls Trilogy, the story follows Diana Bishop, a historian and witch, and her vampire husband, Matthew Clairmont, as they navigate the complexities of their intertwined destinies. The couple embarks on a perilous journey to uncover the secrets of an ancient manuscript, which holds the key to understanding the origins of all supernatural creatures. As they confront powerful enemies and unravel long-hidden family secrets, Diana and Matthew must rely on their love and courage to protect their future and the future of their kind.

    The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  6. 706. The Wishing Spell by Chris Colfer

    The Land of Stories

    In a magical land where fairy tales come to life, twins Alex and Conner Bailey embark on an extraordinary adventure after discovering a mysterious book that serves as a portal to another world. As they navigate through this enchanting realm, they encounter iconic characters from beloved stories, each with their own challenges and secrets. To return home, the siblings must gather a series of magical items known as the Wishing Spell, all while evading the clutches of a sinister Evil Queen. Their journey is filled with danger, wonder, and the discovery of inner strength, as they learn the true power of family and friendship.

    The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
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  7. 707. The Magician by Michael Scott

    The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel

    In this thrilling continuation of a magical saga, the story follows the adventures of twins Sophie and Josh Newman as they navigate a world filled with ancient secrets and powerful sorcery. The siblings find themselves in Paris, where they must confront the enigmatic and dangerous magician, Dr. John Dee, who is determined to harness the power of the legendary Codex for his own dark purposes. With the help of the immortal alchemist Nicholas Flamel and his wife Perenelle, the twins must unlock their latent magical abilities and decipher the mysteries of the past to prevent a catastrophic future. As alliances shift and new threats emerge, the twins' bond is tested, and they must rely on their courage and wit to survive in a world where nothing is as it seems.

    The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
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  8. 708. Blue Lily, Lily Blue by Maggie Stiefvater

    In this captivating continuation of the Raven Cycle series, the story delves deeper into the mystical and enigmatic world of the Raven Boys and Blue Sargent. As the search for the legendary Welsh king Glendower intensifies, the group faces new challenges and revelations that test their bonds and beliefs. Blue grapples with her unique abilities and the prophecy that foretells her true love's death, while the boys confront their own secrets and destinies. With the lines between reality and magic increasingly blurred, they must navigate a landscape filled with danger, friendship, and the promise of the unknown.

    The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
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  9. 709. Carry On by Rainbow Rowell

    In a world where magic is real and danger lurks at every corner, Simon Snow, the Chosen One, grapples with the pressures of his destiny at Watford School of Magicks. As he navigates his final year, Simon must confront his enigmatic and elusive roommate, Baz, who he suspects is a vampire and his sworn enemy. However, as tensions rise and secrets unravel, Simon discovers that the lines between friend and foe are not as clear as they seem. With a looming threat to the magical world, Simon and Baz must set aside their differences and work together, leading to unexpected alliances and revelations about love, identity, and the true nature of power.

    The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  10. 710. Pride And Prejudice And Zombies by Seth Grahame-Smith

    The Classic Regency Romance - Now with Ultraviolent Zombie Mayhem

    In a unique twist on a classic tale, the Bennet sisters navigate the social intricacies of 19th-century England while simultaneously battling a zombie apocalypse. Elizabeth Bennet, a skilled martial artist, must balance her duty to protect her family from the undead with her growing feelings for the enigmatic Mr. Darcy. As the undead threat looms, societal norms are challenged, and Elizabeth's journey of love and survival unfolds in a world where manners and martial arts collide.

    The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  11. 711. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull

    None

    In a world where mythical creatures and magical beings are hidden from human eyes, two siblings, Kendra and Seth, find themselves spending the summer at their grandparents' mysterious estate. Unbeknownst to them, the property is a sanctuary for enchanted creatures known as Fablehaven. As they explore the wonders and dangers of this hidden realm, they inadvertently unleash a series of events that threaten the delicate balance of the sanctuary. With courage and wit, the siblings must navigate a world filled with fairies, trolls, and other fantastical beings to protect the sanctuary and preserve the magic that lies within.

    The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  12. 712. Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning

    In this gripping urban fantasy, a young woman named MacKayla Lane embarks on a perilous journey to Dublin after her sister's mysterious murder. As she delves deeper into the investigation, Mac discovers a hidden world teeming with dangerous fae creatures and dark secrets. With the help of the enigmatic Jericho Barrons, she learns of her own unique abilities and the existence of a powerful, ancient book that could alter the balance between humans and fae. As Mac navigates this treacherous new reality, she must confront her fears and unravel the truth behind her sister's death, all while battling sinister forces that threaten to consume her.

    The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  13. 713. The Hike by Drew Magary

    A seemingly ordinary business trip turns into a surreal and perilous journey when a man named Ben takes a detour through the woods, only to find himself trapped in a bizarre and nightmarish world. As he navigates through a series of increasingly strange and dangerous challenges, Ben encounters a host of peculiar characters and creatures, each with their own cryptic messages and intentions. With his life and sanity on the line, Ben must confront his deepest fears and desires to find a way back home, all while unraveling the mysteries of this otherworldly realm.

    The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  14. 714. The Rook by Daniel O'Malley

    In a world where supernatural forces and secret organizations coexist, a woman named Myfanwy Thomas awakens in a London park with no memory of her identity or past, surrounded by bodies wearing latex gloves. Discovering a letter in her pocket addressed to herself, she learns she is a high-ranking official in a covert British agency known as the Checquy, tasked with protecting the nation from paranormal threats. As she navigates her new reality, Myfanwy must uncover the truth behind the conspiracy that led to her memory loss while mastering her own extraordinary powers to survive in a world teeming with danger and intrigue.

    The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  15. 715. Strange The Dreamer by Laini Taylor

    In a world where dreams and reality intertwine, a young librarian named Lazlo embarks on a journey to uncover the mysteries of a forgotten city known only as Weep. Haunted by visions of a blue-skinned goddess and driven by an insatiable curiosity, Lazlo joins a band of adventurers led by the enigmatic Godslayer, seeking to unravel the secrets of Weep's tragic past. As he delves deeper into the city's history, Lazlo discovers the power of dreams and the enduring impact of love and loss, challenging the boundaries between myth and truth.

    The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  16. 716. One For My Enemy by Olivie Blake

    In a world where magic and power dictate the rules, two rival families, the Antonova witches and the Fedorov crime syndicate, are locked in a bitter feud that spans generations. Amidst the chaos of their ongoing battle, secrets unravel and loyalties are tested as members from both sides find themselves entangled in a web of forbidden love and betrayal. As tensions escalate, the lines between friend and foe blur, forcing each character to confront their deepest fears and desires, ultimately questioning the true cost of power and vengeance.

    The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  17. 717. Heartless by Marissa Meyer

    In a whimsical reimagining of Wonderland's origins, the story follows Catherine, a talented baker with dreams of opening her own shop, who is reluctantly thrust into the world of courtship with the King of Hearts. As she navigates the pressures of royal expectations and societal norms, Catherine's heart is drawn to Jest, the enigmatic court jester, sparking a forbidden romance. Torn between her desires and her duty, Catherine's journey is a poignant exploration of love, ambition, and the choices that shape one's destiny, ultimately leading to her transformation into the infamous Queen of Hearts.

    The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
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  18. 718. The Angelical Language, Volume I by Aaron Leitch

    The Complete History and Mythos of the Tongue of Angels

    This comprehensive work delves into the mystical and intricate world of the Enochian language, a system of communication purportedly revealed to the Elizabethan magicians John Dee and Edward Kelley by angelic beings. The book meticulously explores the historical context, the development of the language, and its significance within the broader framework of Western esoteric traditions. It provides readers with a detailed examination of the linguistic structure, including its alphabet, grammar, and vocabulary, while also offering insights into the spiritual and magical applications of this enigmatic language. Through a blend of scholarly research and practical guidance, the book serves as both a historical study and a practical manual for those interested in the mystical arts.

    The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  19. 719. Goblin Secrets by William Alexander

    In a world where magic and mechanical wonders intertwine, a young orphan named Rownie embarks on a quest to find his missing brother in the bustling city of Zombay. As he navigates the city's vibrant streets, he encounters a troupe of goblin actors who defy the city's ban on masks and performances. Drawn into their world of enchantment and rebellion, Rownie discovers the power of storytelling and the courage to challenge the oppressive forces that seek to control the city's inhabitants. Through his journey, he learns about family, identity, and the transformative magic of theater.

    The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  20. 720. 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 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  21. 721. 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 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  22. 722. 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 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 723. 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 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  24. 724. 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 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  25. 725. 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 17130th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org

Reading Statistics

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