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.
Over a decade since it was released, we still can’t get enough of this Neil Gaiman adaptation.
King Arthur and the Camelot crew have been honored in countless films, from movies of the highest ex-caliber to those so bad they'd make the Black Knight blush.
By Carolyn Cox
The second book in the Renegades series, Archenemies, picks up where Renegades left off.
Learn all the strange and unusual details about how the beloved dark fantasy film came to be.
By Abbey White
Magic and adventure are at your fingertips with these incredible audiobooks.
By Carolyn Cox
The author of the Proxy series and The Skybound Saga talks worldbuilding, birds of prey, and writing queer stories for and about young adults.
By Carolyn Cox
You voted! Now it's time to take a peek at the winning final cover (as promised, we'll also reveal the meaning of life).
The Portalist spoke to the prolific fantasy author about the new Drizzt trilogy, the power of fantasy, and why the dark elf remains so compelling.
By Carolyn Cox
The author of The Boneless Mercies discusses her favorite genres, female friendship, and more.
This Moroccan-inspired novel confronts prejudice and colonialism on another planet.
See a list of winners from last night's historic ceremony — then download the titles and start reading!
By Carolyn Cox
The annual con will be held in San Jose from August 16-20.
It can be dark and gritty in space — but for writers of queer romance, sci-fi settings also bring newfound freedom.
By Kelly Jensen
A 14-year-old con becomes the host of an endangered dragon—and embarks on his most perilous undertaking yet.
Rate My Professors: the Hogwarts edition.
Jennifer Roberson's novel sees the iconic outlaw and his lady lover fight their enemies side by side.
By Allison Wild
Blood and Honor is the tale of a struggling actor who’s hired to impersonate an evil prince.
By Allison Wild
As Gwynedd's usurper king grows more barbaric, the gifted Camber MacRorie tries to restore the throne to its rightful heir in Camber of Culdi.
By Olivia Mason
Uncover this utterly addictive urban fantasy serial today.
By Carolyn Cox