The Best Fantasy Books for Adults You Didn’t Know About

So, you think you’ve read all the fantasy books out there worth reading? Well, think again! There’s a whole secret stash of awesome fantasy books for adults that you’ve probably never even heard of.

And guess who’s been digging around to uncover these hidden treasures for you? Yep, that’s us, the folks at Blinkist. It’s kind of our job to read, so we are really good at it. 

That’s why we went on a mythical quest, not unlike those of the heroes in these very books, to bring you the best fantasy books for adults that have been flying under the radar.

Are you ready to check out our list of fantasy books for those readers who are already paying taxes?

The Best Fantasy Books for Adults: Blinkist’s Hidden Stash

1. Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

This science fiction masterpiece, infused with fantasy elements, paints a chilling portrait of a future where firemen burn books instead of extinguishing flames. Protagonist Guy Montag, a fireman himself, grapples with his role in society after encountering a free-thinking woman named Clarisse. 

And as he dives into the forbidden world of literature, Montag confronts the power of censorship, the importance of knowledge, and the fight for individuality in a world stripped of critical thinking.

2. Wolf by Wolf by Emily R. King

Okay, picture this: you’re flipping through the pages of history, right? Only, in this version, do the bad guys win WWII. Grim? Sure, but hang in there because here’s where it gets good.

We’ve got this incredible young woman, a Jewish shapeshifter, who’s about to turn the tables on history itself. Her goal? To kill! And her target? None other than Hitler himself.

“Wolf by Wolf” is a full-blown adventure with a sprinkle of fantasy, a dash of danger, and a whole lot of heart. This fantasy book doesn’t just tell a story; it asks you to imagine the impossible, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good “what if” scenario?

3. What a Dragon Should Know by G. A. Aiken

Ever wondered about the daily dilemmas of a dragon shifter? “What a Dragon Should Know” sends us soaring into the life of a formidable dragon and a warrior woman whose mettle is as fierce as her sword arm. 

Together, they’re an unstoppable force, navigating a maze of political schemes and clashing swords. It’s a riot of a fantasy read, blending heart-pounding action with a dash of cheeky humor that’ll have you rooting for these unlikely heroes through every twist and turn.

4. The Last Cuentista by Donna Barba Higuera

Now, let’s shift gears. Ever thought about how powerful stories are? Imagine a world where stories, the very essence of our heritage, are banned. And this is the world of “The Last Cuentista,” where storytelling is a forgotten art, and only a young girl holds the key to reviving it.

She’s the last cuentista, the final storyteller, and she’s fighting to save her family and keep the stories alive. Dive into this enchanting mix of fantasy and Mexican folklore, and who knows? You might just find yourself inspired to tell a story or two.

5. Dune by Frank Herbert

This sprawling science fiction fantasy book centers on Paul Atreides, son of Duke Leto. When his family is entrusted with governing Arrakis, the source of the valuable spice mélange, they find themselves caught up in a web of political intrigue, betrayal, and warfare. 

Paul’s unique abilities and the fight for control over the spice trade shape the fate of not only Arrakis, but the entire empire. Explore themes of political power struggles, complex ecology and religious fanaticism.

6. The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison

Ever feel like you’re just one step away from something great, but life keeps throwing curveballs? Meet Maia, the ultimate underdog: a half-goblin, half-elf, totally out of his depth but suddenly emperor of a realm that’s as welcoming as a thorn bush.

“The Goblin Emperor” is this heart-tugging story of Maia navigating the snake-pit of court politics with nothing but his wits and a good heart. Ready for a tale of unexpected rulership that warms the heart and stirs the soul?

Are you craving more adventures in magical lands after joining Maia’s quest? Dive into realms filled with intrigue and wonder with our curated list of20 enthralling books like ACOTAR (A Court of Thorns and Roses). Whether you’re in search of sprawling epic fantasies, magical romance, or tales of heroic resilience, we’ve got you covered.

7. Master of Crows by Grace Draven

Dive headfirst into “Master of Crows,” where magic reigns supreme and hearts are tested by the fiercest of challenges. Here, a renegade mage lies on the brink of succumbing to darkness, and the only person who stands between him and his damning fate is a woman shrouded in mystery. 

The author Grace Draven weaves a tapestry of betrayal, danger, and smoldering attraction in a world so vividly painted, you can almost smell the magic in the air.

8. The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang

Meet Rin Ciradon, a girl from a nowhere poppy farm with dreams bigger than the sky. “The Poppy War” throws us into the heart of the Nikan Empire, a place that’s as beautiful as it is brutal, pulling its roots from the rich soil of Chinese history and folklore.

But here’s the twist: Rin’s got a mind like a steel trap and the will to match. She ditches her dead-end destiny for a shot at the big leagues—a military academy where only the best of the best survive. Think Mulan, but with ancient magic and lethal combat skills on the curriculum.

9. Rhapsodic by Laura Thalassa

Prepare to be ensnared in the hauntingly beautiful world of “Rhapsodic,” where sirens sing, and the shadows dance to the tune of The Bargainer—a fae with the power to grant your deepest desires… for a price. 

Laura Thalassa crafts a story of magic, passion, and secrets dark enough to drown a heart. It’s a dance of light and shadow, where every whispered promise could be a curse in disguise. 

A Guide to the Best Fantasy Book Series

While talking about fantasy books, let’s not forget about those big guns of fantasy, the ones that have shaped what we love about this genre. They’re like the rock stars of the literary world!

First up, “The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien. This isn’t just a book series; it’s an epic adventure that’s basically the grandfather of modern fantasy. Picture this: you, Frodo, and his crew, battling the darkness to save Middle-earth. It’s all about courage, friendship, and epic quests.

If you love the big, magical world and the exciting stories of “The Lord of the Rings,” we have something special for you. Check out our list called 20 Enchanting Books Like ‘Lord of the Rings’ by J.R.R. Tolkien. These fantasy books are also packed with heroes, adventures, the good and the evil.

And then there’s “The Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis. Ever wanted to find a magical world in your closet? Narnia’s the place where animals chat you up, and epic battles between good and evil go down. It’s a childhood dream come true, no matter your age.

Don’t even get me started on “The Broken Earth Trilogy” by N.K. Jemisin. Talk about a fantasy book series that turns fantasy on its head with its earth-shattering (literally) storytelling.

And, of course, Terry Pratchett’s “Discworld.” Imagine a flat world on turtle-back—yeah, it’s as wild as it sounds. It’s fantasy mixed with a heavy dose of satire and humor.

And so, our quest through the uncharted territories of fantasy books draws to a close, but what a journey it’s been. But let’s be honest: for every story told, there are dozens more waiting to be discovered. Each one has its own worlds, characters, and adventures.

For those brave souls who can’t get enough of these mystical realms and crave even more epic quests, magical creatures, and tales of unfathomable bravery, Blinkist has conjured up something special:

An enchanting compilation ofThe Best 100 Fantasy Books. From timeless classics that have bewitched generations to the latest releases in the fantasy genre, we are sure you’ll find the right escape.

And the best part? We’re offering a 7-day free trial for you to dive deep into the realm of the best fantasy books for adults. Welcome to Blinkist, where every read is the start of a fantastic journey!

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