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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SNEAK PEEK: Read a Preview from Leigh Bardugo’s King of Scars 

In the first chapter from Leigh Bardugo’s new novel set in the Grishaverse, a young boy faces his worst nightmare on a stormy night.

Alyxandra Harvey Shares 8 of Her Favorite Literary Vampires

Not all bloodsuckers are created equal: The author of the urban fantasy vampire series The Drake Chronicles reveals 8 of her favorite vamps.

8 New Books We Can't Wait to Read This January

The weather outside is frightful, but these books look so delightful.

11 Fantasy Adventure Books You Won't Be Able to Put Down

These epic page-turners will have you on the edge of your seat.

First Read: Poul Anderson's Operation Chaos and Operation Luna

Seasoned sci-fi and fantasy editor Betsy Mitchell dives into Poul Anderson's urban paranormal duology for the first time. 

10 Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books That Need Adaptations

Are you there, Hollywood? It's us, sci-fi and fantasy fans.

Terry Brooks Talks Moving from Fantasy to the Future for His Novel Street Freaks

The author of the Shannara saga explains why he took a break from epic fantasy with a futuristic thriller set in dystopian L.A.

Leigh Bardugo’s The Language of Thorns Explores the Dark Side of Fairy Tales

This bewitching and beautiful short story collection makes a perfect keepsake.

8 Epic Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books by Master Storyteller Dave Duncan

The late author wrote epic tales of magic, fantastical creatures, and fearless warriors that Game of Thrones fans are sure to love.

100 Years: The Life and Work of Madeleine L’Engle 

The ability to understand a child’s imagination is just one of the reasons why the A Wrinkle in Time author’s work has stood the test of time. 

REVIEW: Harry Potter: A History of Magic

The fascinating exhibit is on display at the New-York Historical Society until January 27, 2019.

10 Books for Fans of A Wrinkle in Time

Tesser your way through the stunning universes found in these books.

8 Fantasy Families We’d Love to Join

We want these families seated around our dinner table.

10 Great Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books Featuring Multidimensional Women

These sci-fi and fantasy books prove that literary women can do—and be—it all!

7 Books Set in Magical Fantasy Worlds

Transport yourself to a whole new setting.

In Memory of William Goldman, 1931-2018

The legendary writer behind Marathon Man, The Princess Bride, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid has passed away at the age of 87.

11 Reasons We Still Love the Stardust Movie

Over a decade since it was released, we still can’t get enough of this Neil Gaiman adaptation.

Arthurian Legend Movies, Ranked

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.