The Greatest American "Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Fantasy" Books Since 2010

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 '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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Fiction

Speculative Fiction

Speculative fiction is an umbrella genre encompassing narrative fiction with supernatural or futuristic elements. This includes genres such as science fiction, fantasy, horror, supernatural fiction, superhero fiction, utopian and dystopian fiction, apocalyptic and post-apocalyptic fiction, and alternate history. The unifying factor of speculative fiction is its departure from the narrative constraints of reality, exploring imaginative and often profound questions that challenge our understanding of the world and our place within it. These stories often delve into themes like the human condition, social commentary, and the exploration of philosophical and ethical dilemmas through the lens of the fantastical or the yet-to-be-possible. By pushing the boundaries of the known, speculative fiction invites readers to consider the myriad possibilities of existence and the potential consequences of our actions in worlds that are, at once, vastly different from and eerily similar to our own.

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. 126. Oathbringer by Brandon Sanderson

    In this epic fantasy novel, the third installment of a renowned series, the world of Roshar faces an escalating threat from the Voidbringers, leading to widespread chaos and destruction. The narrative follows Dalinar Kholin as he grapples with his turbulent past, striving to unite the fractured kingdoms against the looming enemy while wrestling with his own inner demons and the ambiguous nature of power and leadership. Amidst political intrigue, ancient mysteries, and the resurgence of legendary powers, characters embark on journeys of self-discovery, redemption, and the pursuit of honor, questioning the true meaning of being a hero in a world on the brink of annihilation.

    The 11332nd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 127. Sleeping Beauties by Stephen King, Owen King

    In a small Appalachian town, an extraordinary event unfolds: women who fall asleep become shrouded in a cocoon-like gauze. If disturbed, they awaken in a violent, primal state. Meanwhile, in this bizarrely evolving world, Evie Black, a mysterious woman with a unique immunity to the sleeping phenomenon, emerges as both a potential savior and a harbinger of doom. As tensions between men and women escalate, the town becomes a battleground for a deeper societal confrontation, with Evie at its center. This novel weaves a rich tapestry of character and conflict, exploring themes of gender, power, and survival in a world teetering on the brink of an unfathomable transformation.

    The 11332nd Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 128. The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern

    This novel weaves a mesmerizing tale of a young graduate student who discovers a mysterious book hidden in his university library, leading him on an extraordinary journey to a secret, magical underground world. Filled with pirates, painters, lovers, and thieves, the story delves into timeless tales of love, loss, and transformation. As he navigates this labyrinthine world, he encounters a series of intriguing characters and stories that intertwine with his own destiny, challenging his understanding of reality and his place within it. Rich with symbolism and deeply imaginative, the narrative explores themes of storytelling, fate, and the connections that bind us across time and space.

    The 11337th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 129. House Of Assassins by Larry Correia

    In "House of Assassins," readers are plunged into a vividly crafted fantasy world where magic, gods, and warriors collide. The story follows Ashok Vadal, a former protector turned vengeful seeker of justice, as he embarks on a perilous mission to rescue his kidnapped protector, Thera. With the aid of a motley crew of allies, including a rebellious sorceress and a group of warrior monks, Ashok navigates treacherous landscapes and battles formidable enemies. The novel intricately weaves themes of honor, loyalty, and the quest for redemption, delivering a thrilling adventure filled with epic battles, dark magic, and complex characters fighting against the odds to save one of their own.

    The 11337th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 130. Battle Ground by Jim Butcher

    In this thrilling installment of a popular urban fantasy series, the city of Chicago becomes the epicenter of a supernatural war. The protagonist, a wizard detective, must rally his allies, both mortal and magical, to defend the city against a formidable and ancient enemy leading an army of monsters. As the battle rages, the stakes are higher than ever, pushing the hero to the limits of his power and resolve. Loyalties are tested, and sacrifices are made, in a desperate fight not just for survival, but for the soul of the city itself. The narrative is packed with action, magic, and the series' hallmark witty dialogue, making it a gripping read from start to finish.

    The 11343rd Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 131. Witch King by Martha Wells

    In "The Witch King," readers are plunged into a captivating fantasy world where an ancient and powerful witch king, long thought to be a myth, is discovered to be very much alive. The narrative follows a group of characters, each with their own motives and secrets, as they navigate political intrigue, dark magic, and their own personal demons in an attempt to understand and possibly control the witch king's formidable powers. As alliances form and betrayals surface, the characters must confront the reality that the fate of their world hangs in the balance, challenging their beliefs and forcing them to question what they truly desire. This novel weaves together elements of magic, mystery, and adventure, creating a richly detailed and immersive experience for readers.

    The 11353rd Greatest Book of All Time

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