A Decade of Wonder: The 10 Best Fantasy Novels of the Past 10 Years, Ranked

Fantasy is currently experiencing a significant surge in popularity. While the genre has existed for centuries, it has never been more dominant than it is in recent years. It is easy to understand why; fantasy offers a form of escapism that allows the imagination to flourish, diverting attention from the routine of daily life. Although fantasy novels are ubiquitous these days, truly exceptional titles continue to stand out from the crowd.

Over the past decade specifically, fantasy literature has produced a wealth of outstanding novels, attracting millions of readers and selling comparable copies. While they may not match the cultural footprint of a Harry Potter, their critical reception has been even more impressive. These are the definitive best fantasy books of the last 10 years.

10

‘The House in the Cerulean Sea’ (2020)

Written by T. J. Klune

The House in the Cerulean Sea is no surprise to find on so many lists of the best fantasy books of the 2020s; it genuinely deserves the spot. Set in a magical world, the story follows Linus Baker, an employee at the Department of Magical Youth Services. His organization learns of an orphanage rumored to be highly dangerous, prompting an investigation. During his stay, Linus bonds with the caretaker and gains significant self-awareness along the way.

Where much of the surrounding literature leans cynical, this novel is optimistic and committed to seeing the good in everyone. Rather than adhering strictly to genre conventions, T. J. Klune tweaks the rules slightly, delivering a quirky and engaging read. It is not epic fantasy; it is a delightful, feel-good story with an unapologetically whimsical tone. Additionally, as a standalone award-winning novel, readers can enjoy a complete narrative without awaiting a sequel.

9

‘Dungeon Crawler Carl’ (2020)

Written by Matt Dinniman

Dungeon Crawler Carl is likely the most unhinged entry on this list. Deliberately not serious, it blends science fiction and fantasy into a unique science-fantasy hybrid. This LitRPG novel opens on a post-apocalyptic Earth obliterated by a cartoonishly malevolent alien corporation. To survive, the remaining humans are compelled to participate in an 18-level dungeon crawl reminiscent of classic role-playing video games.

Described as chaotic, satirical, and occasionally “trashy” (intentionally), the book offers depth beneath its layers of humor. It functions as a parody of traditional fantasy while possessing a complexity and nuance only Matt Dinniman could craft. Every fantasy enthusiast should experience this title, as it offers ample material for both enjoyment and reflection.

8

‘Children of Blood and Bone’ (2018)

Written by Tomi Adeyemi

Children of Blood and Bone is a YA novel by Tomi Adeyemi and the opening volume of a trilogy. This marks Adeyemi’s debut published novel, and it is a remarkably strong effort. The narrative unfolds in Orïsha, a world inspired by Nigeria and West Africa, reflecting the author’s heritage. The setting is initially oppressive, divided between the Divîners, magical people with white hair, and the Kosidán, non-magical rulers who tightened their control after magic vanished.

Following an attack on her village, a young Divîner named Zélie resolves to restore magic and equality to her world. The novel was a significant cultural event, with Adeyemi appearing on Jimmy Fallon and securing a major film deal, with the first adaptation scheduled for release soon. Although it targets a younger audience, adults will enjoy it as well, and its popularity could grow further upon the film’s release.

7

‘Crossroads of Ravens’ (2024)

Written by Andrzej Sapkowski

Crossroads of Ravens is the latest addition to the acclaimed and widely popular The Witcher franchise, serving as a prequel to all prior works. Chronologically, it is the first story in the timeline, depicting a young Geralt of Rivia before his transformation into a Witcher. The books were famously adapted into a Netflix series, though the show has since diverged significantly from the source material.

This novel feels like a triumphant return to form, thanks to original author Andrzej Sapkowski, whose creative drive remains strong three decades after the first book was published in Poland. It offers a compelling origin story for one of fantasy’s most mysterious figures while preserving the original tone. Fans of the television show should not miss this release, particularly given its nomination for the Janusz A. Zajdel Award, reserved for the finest Polish fantasy writers.

6

‘The Jasmine Throne’ (2021)

Written by Tasha Suri

Tasha Suri authored The Jasmine Throne, the first volume of an immersive series. Known as The Burning Kingdoms trilogy, it is set in a high fantasy world inspired by Ancient India. While most fantasy favors Medieval European settings, this entry offers a refreshing and authentic alternative, bolstered by Suri’s own Indian heritage.

The plot begins with an empire in turmoil and a mysterious plague spreading across the land, triggering magical intervention. Beyond the surface narrative, the story conveys a lesson regarding how absolute power corrupts and the monumental cost of such authority. It received widespread acclaim and became a massive success on social media.

5

‘The Burning God’ (2020)

Written by R. F. Kuang

Author R. F. Kuang has recently dominated headlines for her critically acclaimed novels, which have gained millions of copies sold and widespread social media traction. While her finest work is a matter of debate among fans, The Burning God is the standout choice here, serving as the third and concluding volume of a stunning epic high fantasy trilogy.

Inspired by her Chinese heritage, Kuang built a world modeled on Imperial China, infused with additional magic and monsters. The book proves surprisingly deep; while it initially appears to be romantasy or YA fantasy, the content is mature and dark, fitting firmly within the grimdark subgenre. Kuang’s books are not only entertaining but also contain important social commentary, a reflection of her ongoing academic work. Kuang has accomplished much in just 29 years, achieving immense popularity through her exceptional output.

4

‘Fire & Blood’ (2018)

Written by George R. R. Martin

Fire & Blood is less a traditional novel and more a fictional historical chronicle by George R. R. Martin. The book details the extensive lineage of House Targaryen, a pivotal faction in his series A Song of Ice and Fire, later adapted into the television phenomenon Game of Thrones. Fire & Blood also served as the foundation for the spin-off series House of the Dragon.

Although fans may prefer Martin complete the main series, considering the final installment dates back to 2011, Fire & Blood remains an excellent read. It significantly expanded the lore of the Seven Kingdoms, tracing lineages three centuries before the main events. It is always a pleasure to return to Westeros, and the book serves as an ideal companion for House of the Dragon viewers who find the family tree confusing.

3

‘Deadhouse Landing’ (2017)

Written by Ian Cameron Esslemont

The Malazan: Book of the Fallen series is regarded as one of the most quintessential works in modern fantasy literature. Began in 1999 by Canadian author Steven Erikson, it has grown into a large shared universe with contributions from multiple writers. Deadhouse Landing is part of Malazan‘s side series, Path to Ascendancy, helmed here by Ian Cameron Esslemont rather than Erikson.

While it may not be as monumental as the main sequence, it is an excellent book filled with surprising clever humor. Numerous Malazan side books have followed since, yet this one still edges out the rest. It is remarkable that Malazan has not yet been adapted for television; the series is of such high quality that it should be a serious contender for a live-action adaptation.

2

‘The Fall of Gondolin’ (2018)

Written by J. R. R. Tolkien

The Fall of Gondolin is another work that is not quite a novel but rather a historical account. Written by J. R. R. Tolkien, it is set thousands of years before his acclaimed The Lord of the Rings saga. Following Tolkien’s death, the book was compiled, completed, and published posthumously by his son, Christopher Tolkien. It contains three variations of the Fall of Gondolin, supplemented by additional lore and writing notes.

The narrative depicts one of Middle-earth’s greatest battles, where the Dark Lord Morgoth attacks the hidden Elvish city after its location is betrayed. Assaulted by balrogs and orcs, the city is destroyed and its inhabitants forced to flee. It is one of Middle-earth’s greatest tragedies—a tale of catastrophic devastation and a crucial piece of Tolkien’s lore that demands attention. While it may not be his absolute finest work, it is certainly the best of his to emerge in recent years.

1

‘Oathbringer’ (2017)

Written by Brandon Sanderson

Oathbringer is the third installment in Brandon Sanderson‘s ongoing The Stormlight Archive series, part of his shared literary universe, the Cosmere. The premise dictates that each series or novel occurs on a separate planet within the same galaxy, each with a unique magic system. Stormlight is set on Roshar, a hostile world plagued by highstorms, hurricane-like weather events that regularly sweep the planet. However, the weather is secondary to humanity’s real threat: the Listeners, crustacean humanoids, have resurrected an ancient evil. To survive, humanity must re-establish the Knights Radiant, a magical order defunct for over a millennium.

This 1,200-page epic is grand in all the right ways, featuring large-scale battles, thrilling duels, and genuinely moving moments. It is emotional, rich with character development, and arguably the best Cosmere novel to date. Whether it is the unique world, the moral wisdom, or the storytelling, it is all of the above. While it may not be Sanderson’s best book according to Goodreads, it certainly ranks in the top three and deserves its place as the best fantasy novel of the last 10 years.

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