Ever picked up a fantasy book “just to read a chapter” and suddenly found yourself up at 3 a.m., heart racing as dragons clash, kingdoms crumble, or star-crossed lovers defy the odds? Fantasy doesn’t just tell a story—it pulls you into its world and refuses to let go. But what makes fantasy books so utterly captivating?
Let’s explore why these magical tales hold such power over us and sprinkle in some top-tier recommendations that are dominating the shelves right now.
A Gateway to Other Worlds
One of fantasy's greatest tricks? It takes us far, far away. And honestly, who doesn’t need a bit of escapism? Whether it's escaping the daily grind or the never-ending scroll on Instagram, fantasy offers a refuge. These books are portals to places where dragons roam, magic is real, and everyday rules don’t apply.
Take Rebecca Yarros' smash hit Fourth Wing, for example. Who wouldn’t want to be swept into a deadly world where dragon riders fight for survival, with a tension-packed romance brewing alongside? The sheer scale and richness of fantasy settings give us the freedom to dream—big. It’s not just escapism; it’s freedom to imagine the impossible.
A Stage for Relatable Heroes
What makes fantasy so universal is that, for all its epic stakes and world-ending prophecies, the characters are achingly human. Whether it’s their messy relationships, moral dilemmas, or determination to rise against the odds, these characters mirror our struggles.
Think about Bryce Quinlan from Sarah J. Maas' Crescent City series. She’s snarky, headstrong, and navigating loss and duty in a world teeming with angels, demons, and high-octane danger. Bryce isn’t just a heroine; she’s all of us, fumbling through life but fighting like hell for what matters. Then there’s Tress from Brandon Sanderson’s Tress of the Emerald Sea. She’s an ordinary girl from a small island who gets swept into an extraordinary journey of adventure and self-discovery. Her courage feels so genuine that you can’t help but cheer for her.
Themes That Strike a Chord
At its heart, fantasy doesn’t just entertain—it speaks to universal truths. Beneath the dragons and sorcery, you’ll find stories about love, loss, friendship, and resilience. Themes we all connect with.
For instance, Quicksilver by Callie Hart is a perfect example of dark fantasy romance. It weaves together themes of survival, love, and loyalty while immersing you in a gritty, captivating world. It’s heart-stopping, intense, and laced with the kind of chemistry that keeps you glued to the pages.
Even in Sarah J. Maas’ A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) series, the romance and political intrigue are layered with themes of trauma, healing, and self-worth. Whether it’s Feyre finding her strength or Rhysand redefining what it means to lead, the story resonates because it feels real—despite the magic.
Epic Escapism with High Stakes
Fantasy thrives on drama—the higher the stakes, the better. Battles for kingdoms, forbidden love, ancient prophecies… it’s the ultimate form of “go big or go home.”
Take Jennifer L. Armentrout’s Blood and Ash series. It’s not just about politics and passion; it’s about destiny, betrayal, and characters making impossible choices. You’re not just reading—you’re living every twist and turn with them. And let’s not forget Samantha Shannon’s The Priory of the Orange Tree, a feminist epic that flips traditional fantasy tropes on their heads. Dragons and queens? Yes, please. It’s an epic that feels modern, yet timeless.
It’s a Community Thing
Fantasy isn’t just a genre—it’s a lifestyle. From BookTok fan theories to cosplay at conventions, fantasy readers are some of the most passionate out there. When you fall in love with a series like Fourth Wing or A Court of Silver Flames, you’re not just reading; you’re stepping into a global community. Bookish friendships form over shared obsessions. Ever gushed about Azriel or debated which Sarah J. Maas couple reigns supreme? Fantasy brings people together. Even online, you’ll find yourself swapping theories about what Rebecca Yarros has planned for her Empyrean series.
Recommendations to Keep You Hooked
If you’re craving your next adventure, here are some must-reads currently dominating the fantasy scene:
- Rebecca Yarros’ Fourth Wing: Dragon riders, enemies-to-lovers romance, and a cutthroat training academy. Enough said.
- Sarah J. Maas’ A Court of Thorns and Roses: A lush blend of romance, danger, and fae intrigue that’s impossible to put down.
- Callie Hart’s Quicksilver: A dark fantasy romance where gritty storytelling meets sizzling chemistry in a tale of survival and destiny.
- Brandon Sanderson’s Tress of the Emerald Sea: A whimsical yet profound story of courage, love, and adventure.
- Holly Black’s The Stolen Heir: A return to the magical world of The Cruel Prince, brimming with dark intrigue and romance.
- Samantha Shannon’s A Day of Fallen Night: A prequel to The Priory of the Orange Tree that dives deeper into a world of dragons and power.
Why Fantasy Will Always Have Our Hearts
At the end of the day, fantasy isn’t just about escaping—it’s about dreaming. It’s about stepping into someone else’s shoes and realising that, even in a world of magic and mayhem, the struggles and triumphs feel universal. Fantasy books remind us that anything is possible—both in their worlds and in ours.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab a copy of Fourth Wing or dive into Quicksilver. Let’s turn the page and get lost in the magic together.