Fantasy Books Stories

Whether you prefer epic fantasy series or standalone fantasy, there’s nothing like getting lost in the pages of a fantasy book. But where to begin with all the treasures of the fantasy genre? Fantasy is a vast realm, and there can be distinct differences between low fantasy, urban fantasy, sword and sorcery, grimdark, and the myriad other subgenres

Thankfully, The Portalist offers a map to help you on your quest. We recommend classic fantasy, award-winning titles, underrated works, and the bibliography of icons like Neil Gaiman, Ursula K. Le Guin, Terry Pratchett, and other greats. And from exploring beloved characters to landmark quotes, we go deep on foundational series such as George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series and Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. 

If you’re interested in writing fantasy—in addition to reading it!—explore The Portalist’s writing advice on how to perfect the magic system in your work in progress, honing worldbuilding, and surprising yourself through your own fiction. 

Regardless of what you want from your fantasy quest, we’re excited to help you achieve your destiny. Grab your sword, your sidekick, and a bit of Chosen One panache, and embark on your fantasy quest today.

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Glory, Vengeance, and Duty in Books Like The Shadow of the Gods

Dead gods and monsters abound in Gwynne's latest epic fantasy series.

30 Epic Books Like The Name of the Wind

These grand tales will sweep you away just like Patrick Rothfuss’s Kingkiller Chronicle saga.

Summery Sci-Fi/Fantasy That Bring the Heat

Enjoy the dog days with beach reads, desert battles, and glistening sea adventures.

Is Gregory Maguire's Elphie as Wonderful as Wicked?

Gregory Maguire released a new Elphaba book this spring. 

Atmospheric Horror Like What Moves the Dead

These dark and disturbing tales will keep you up at night.

The Best Science Fiction and Fantasy of the 1990s

The '90s were a special time for speculative fiction. 

8 Books Like Katherine Addison's The Goblin Emperor

If you need something to read while you wait for the next installment of The Chronicles of Osreth, try these titles.

Science Fiction and Fantasy Books You Can Read for $5 or Less

Looking for a great read at an even better price? Try one of these titles!

Books like The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea

Old legends come to life in these fantastic retellings.

20 of Our Favorite Urban Fantasy Books

These fantasy titles blend magic with a contemporary urban setting.

How I Would Edit The Stormlight Archive Book 5, Wind and Truth

The bestselling conclusion to the first arc of Sanderson’s magnum opus has come to a close.

21 of the Best Standalone Fantasy Books

These magical fantasy reads prove sometimes less is more.

9 of Our Favorite Fantasy Series for Children

You’re never too old for these spellbinding tales.

What's the Difference Between Hard Magic and Soft Magic?

These examples can help make sense of the divide between different types of magic systems.

Q&A: TJ Klune on His Career Journey and Favorite Writing Advice

The bestselling author of queer fantasy favorites celebrated the re-release of The Bones Beneath My Skin in February.