Our Favorite Fantasy Standalone Novels
- Snowlock Books
- Nov 25, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Dec 2, 2024
Katherine Addison
The Goblin Emperor is a heartwarming tale of resilience, kindness, and political intrigue. The story follows Maia, a half-goblin who unexpectedly becomes emperor after a tragic accident. Despite being thrust into a hostile court filled with suspicion and scheming, Maia’s genuine kindness and unwavering sense of justice shine through. One of the most moving moments is when Maia, defying tradition and expectations, offers compassion to those who others would dismiss or exploit, showing that true strength lies in empathy. Addison’s richly imagined world and deeply human protagonist make this novel an unforgettable gem. - TS
Octavia Butler
Octavia Butler’s Wild Seed introduces two ethically opposed characters, bound by fate and the universal quest for identity, companionship, and understanding. Butler's portrayal of non-human characters offered profound insights into humanity. As a young reader, this was the first time I realized that fantasy could be more than just stories with fun magic and sweeping landscapes. From the very first pages, I knew it was going to change my understanding of what speculative fiction could achieve. Butler not only expounded on difficult themes but also demonstrated technically brilliant prose. This story is unlike any you've read before, and Butler was a brilliant, game-changing author that everyone should read. - STS
The Book of Knights
Yves Meynard
The Book of Knights feels like stepping into an old fairy tale, with its quick pacing and whimsical sense of adventure that keeps the story moving effortlessly. There’s an earnest charm to its tone that made me fall in love with it—it feels both timeless and unique. Though it’s sadly out of print, this gem is absolutely worth tracking down at your local library or snagging a cheap copy on eBay. It’s a rare treasure for anyone who loves the magical simplicity of classic storytelling. - TS
Susanna Clarke
Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell is such a vivid and unique story that I find myself returning to it in my thoughts, marveling at its depth and originality, nearly 10 years after first reading it. One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its mysterious magic—powerful and awe-inspiring yet never fully explained, which adds to its sense of wonder and mystique.
The book's villain, the faerie only ever referred to as The Gentleman with the Thistledown Hair, is an absolute riot. He's a cruel, funny, and devilishly captivating figure whose presence injects the story with tension and dark humor. Clarke balances his sinister deeds with a sharp comedic edge, making him one of my favorite characters in fantasy.
For those put-off by giant doorstoppers of a book, I highly recommend BBC's mini-series adaptation. It's remarkably both good and faithful to the source material. - TS
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