Here’s a list of some more well-known fantasy books with descriptions in first person, explaining why I love or recommend them!
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Fantasy
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Fantasy
Some romantasy there and then.
Mistborn: The Final Empire” by Brandon Sanderson – I recommend it for its creative magic system and strong, relatable characters; the plot twists completely blew me away.
The Final Empire (Mistborn, #1) by Brandon Sanderson
“Once Upon a Broken Heart” by Stephanie Garber – I loved this book because it’s a perfect mix of romance, magic, and high-stakes adventure. From the very first page, I was drawn into a glamorous, dangerous world where wishes come at a price, and ever...
_Once_Upon_a_Broken_Heart_-_Stephanie_Garber.pdf
Throne of Glass” by Sarah J. Maas – I recommend it because Celaena is such a strong, flawed, and relatable heroine. The story combines intrigue, romance, and fantasy in a way that made me completely invested in the kingdoms, magic, and battles.
Throne of Glass #1 - Sarah J. Maas
Red Queen” by Victoria Aveyard – I love this series because the world-building is unique and the plot twists kept me on edge. The heroine’s journey through a divided society full of power, betrayal, and magic made the story impossible to put down.
Red Queen #1 - Victoria Aveyard
Shadow and Bone” by Leigh Bardugo – I recommend it because the Grishaverse is imaginative and darkly beautiful. Alina’s journey from uncertainty to discovering her power hooked me instantly, and the mix of romance, magic, and political intrigue kept ...
Shadow and Bone #1 - Leigh Bardugo
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Red Rising” by Pierce Brown – I adore this series because the epic world, rebellion, and high-stakes action kept me obsessed; Darrow’s journey is thrilling and emotional.
Red Rising Saga #1 - Pierce Brown
Skyward” by Brandon Sanderson – I love this because the fast-paced space battles and Spensa’s determination hooked me instantly; it’s an addictive mix of adventure, humor, and heart.
Skyward: Brandon Sanderson - Books
Starsight” by Brandon Sanderson – I recommend this sequel because it expands the universe and deepens the stakes while keeping Spensa’s witty voice front and center.
Starsight by Brandon Sanderson : r/YAlit
Iron Widow” by Xiran Jay Zhao – I love it because it blends mecha, action, and a strong heroine with social commentary; it’s fast-paced, thrilling, and empowering.
Review: Iron Widow – Xiran Jay Zhao (Iron Widow #1) : r/Fantasy
Dark Age” by Pierce Brown – I recommend this because it’s the kind of intense sci-fi that makes me stay up all night, filled with betrayal, battles, and shocking twists.
Review: Dark Age (Red Rising Series #5) by Pierce Brown
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Alchemy of Secrets In a magical version of Los Angeles, a folklore student learns she will die the next day unless she can track down a mysterious object called “the Alchemical Heart.” This queer Gothic romance has been gaining traction for its atmos...
Alchemy of Secrets by Stephanie Garber
Caraval by Stephanie Garber Caraval is a captivating fantasy novel that follows two sisters, Scarlett and Donatella Dragna, who have spent their lives under the strict control of their father. Scarlett dreams of attending Caraval, a legendary perform...
Caraval #1 - Stephanie Garber
This Woven Kingdom by Tahereh Mafi This Woven Kingdom introduces Alizeh, a servant girl who is secretly the heir to an ancient Jinn kingdom. Living in hiding, she crosses paths with Prince Kamran, who is unaware of her true identity. As prophecies un...
This Woven Kingdom #1 - Tahereh Mafi
The Jasad Heir by Sara Hashem The Jasad Heir is an Egyptian-inspired fantasy that follows Sylvia, a young woman who has been living in hiding, believing herself to be the last of her royal bloodline. When her secret is discovered, she is thrust into ...
The Jasad Heir (The Scorched Throne, #1) by Sara Hashem
You've Reached Sam by Dustin Thao This contemporary YA novel follows Julie, a teenager grappling with the sudden death of her boyfriend, Sam. In her grief, she calls his phone and is stunned when he answers. The story delves into themes of loss, love...
Dustin Thao - You've Reached Sam
The Cruel Prince by Holly Black Set in the treacherous world of Faerie, this fantasy novel centers on Jude, a mortal girl who, along with her sisters, is taken to live in the realm of the Fae after her parents' murder. Jude strives to earn a place at...
The Cruel Prince (The Folk of the Air, #1) by Holly Black
Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi In a dystopian future, Juliette Ferrars has a lethal touch that can kill anyone she comes into contact with. Imprisoned for years, she is suddenly thrust into a world where her abilities are both feared and coveted. The nov...
Shatter Me: Riveting YA Romantasy Novel
Magnolia Parks by Jessa Hastings This contemporary romance follows the tumultuous relationship between Magnolia Parks, a socialite in London, and BJ Ballentine, the bad boy who broke her heart. Their story is filled with passion, betrayal, and the co...
Magnolia Parks Universe #1
Dance of Thieves by Mary E. Pearson Set in the same universe as The Remnant Chronicles, this fantasy novel introduces Kazi, a former street thief turned queen's guard, who is sent on a mission to bring a powerful family to justice. She encounters Jas...
Dance of Thieves
The Shattering Peace by John Scalzi Set a decade after The End of All Things, this novel delves into a civil war among the Consu, an alien species, threatening the fragile peace between the Colonial Union, Earth, and the Conclave. Scalzi's signature ...