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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8 Great Books to Gift SFF Fans

These new and award-winning titles make for great gifts. 

A Beginner's Guide to Fourth Wing and The Empyrean by Rebecca Yarros

The second entry of the romantasy phenomenon by Rebecca Yarros published November 7.

9 Spooky Novellas You Can Read Before Halloween 

Stories with thrills and chills that you can finish in a single sitting.

15 of Ray Bradbury's Best Books

Where to start with the best of the best. 

Read Chapter 1 of Seanan McGuire's The Innocent Sleep

The 18th installment of the October Daye series hits bookshelves today. You can read the first chapter for free on The Portalist.

Read The Claires by C. L. Gaber

Looking for something witchy this Halloween season? Try this paranormal tale of death and rebirth by Ascenders author C. L. Gaber.

18 of the Best Dragon Books in Fantasy Fiction

Is there any creature—aside from a unicorn—that would make a more badass real-life pet?

Our Favorite Gods in Fantasy

These 12 compelling characters offer a closer look at what it means to be a deity.

8 Spicy Fantasy Romance Books Like A Court of Thorns and Roses

If you're a fan of Sarah J. Maas's bestselling work, try these books with similar spicy themes.

The 6 Books Nominated for the 2023 Hugo Awards

Looking for something new to read? Try some of the year's best novels.

[CLOSED] Enter for Your Chance to Win Seanan McGuire's October Daye Series

Three winners will receive all 18 books of the ongoing October Daye series.

Inventive Causes for Zombie Apocalypses

Some say the world will end in fire, some say in ice … and some say in a swarm of flying fish zombies.

Why ‘The Water Outlaws’ by S.L. Huang Is a Must-Read for Fantasy Lovers

Plus, more sci-fi/fantasy authors who use field expertise to craft their stories.

Pirates in Fantasy Novels That Will Steal Your Heart

Who doesn't love a pirate story on the high seas (or even the skies)?

16 Heart-Pounding Books Like Twilight

Looking to fill the hole in your heart that Twilight left behind? We’ve got just the fix.

Why The Amazing Screw-On Head by Mike Mignola Is My Favorite Book 

Fans of Hellboy and imaginative weird fiction will love this illustrated short-story collection.

10 Manga and Comic Books by Celebrity Creators

Rarely do comic-book writers or artists become household names, but sometimes household names try their hands at comics and manga.

Reviewing The Fragile Threads of Power (and More Stabby Girl Books You'll Love)

If you love A Darker Shade of Magic, these female-led fantasy books with magic and mischief galore might become your new favorite.

13 of the Most-Hated Characters in Beloved SFF

These loathsome characters can't ruin these great sci-fi/fantasy novels, but it's not for lack of trying.