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.
For these teens, high school is the least of their problems.
By Carolyn Cox & Feliza Casano
Kelly Braffet weaves a singular story of magic, monarchy, and metamorphosis...
By Carolyn Cox
After binging Locke & Key on Netflix, open one of these chilling reads.
By Carolyn Cox
Travel beyond Middle-earth with these epic reads for fans of Tolkien.
By Keith Rice
These were some of our favorites in SFF from the past year.
By Aidan Moher
From 'Hocus Pocus' to 'Pan's Labyrinth,' these magical movies are sure to put a spell on you.
2020 marks 30 years since the first Wheel of Time book hit shelves, but the series continues to influence epic fantasy.
By Keith Rice
Get to know the epic novels behind the new Netflix series starring Henry Cavill.
By Keith Rice
Read an excerpt from the thrilling follow-up to Children of Blood and Bone!
Put the mundane aside and explore rich fantasy worlds with these creatures of legend.
Watch the bewitching first season of this mature urban fantasy romance.
By Carolyn Cox
Celebrate Neil Gaiman's birthday on November 10th with these unforgettable words of wisdom.
If you love The Song of the Lioness and Protector of the Small, then these female-focused fantasy adventures are for you.
A lawyer-elf fights to keep a killer off the Naughty List in this short story from a creepy new Christmas collection.
By Carolyn Cox
These epic fantasies are a natural 20.
By Chris Mahon
Travel to far away places with these exceptional fantasy series.
One of speculative fiction's greatest would have turned 90 this year on October 21st.
Reader, beware: these horror reads are frightfully good.
By Emily Hughes
These sweeping fantasy sagas prove heroes come in all ages.
By Carolyn Cox
By the pricking of our thumbs, something badass this way comes...
By Olivia Mason