If you crave a fresh take on familiar tropes:
* "The Goblin Emperor" by Katherine Addison: A heartwarming story about a kind goblin who unexpectedly becomes emperor. It's a gentle, character-driven fantasy with political intrigue and a unique world.
* "The Ten Thousand Doors of January" by Alix E. Harrow: A beautifully written, lyrical fantasy with a focus on magical realism and the power of stories. It's like a blend of "Alice in Wonderland" and "The Neverending Story."
* "The House in the Cerulean Sea" by T.J. Klune: A heartwarming story about a social worker who investigates a magical orphanage filled with extraordinary children. This is a feel-good read with diverse characters and a strong sense of hope.
* "Piranesi" by Susanna Clarke: A mesmerizing, atmospheric novel about a man who lives in a strange, labyrinthine world filled with statues. The mystery of the world and its inhabitants will keep you hooked.
If you want something dark and gritty:
* "The Broken Earth Trilogy" by N.K. Jemisin: A powerful and thought-provoking series about a world plagued by climate change and societal injustice. It's a gritty, complex fantasy that tackles tough themes.
* "The Lies of Locke Lamora" by Scott Lynch: A swashbuckling, heist-focused fantasy set in a world of thieves and con artists. It's a witty and entertaining read with a cast of memorable characters.
* "The Poppy War" by R.F. Kuang: A brutal and intense fantasy inspired by the Second Sino-Japanese War. It's a dark and gritty read with complex characters and a compelling story.
If you're looking for a unique world:
* "The City We Became" by N.K. Jemisin: A brilliant and imaginative novel where five individuals are chosen to represent New York City in a magical battle for its survival.
* "The Priory of the Orange Tree" by Samantha Shannon: A sprawling epic fantasy filled with dragons, political intrigue, and a diverse cast of characters. It's a captivating world that will keep you engrossed for hours.
* "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern: A beautiful and atmospheric novel about a magical competition between two young magicians. The story is full of intrigue and romance, with a captivating setting.
If you prefer something more literary:
* "Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell" by Susanna Clarke: A beautifully written, historical fantasy set in 19th century England. It's a slow burn, but the world building, prose, and characters are truly exceptional.
* "The Ocean at the End of the Lane" by Neil Gaiman: A haunting and melancholic novel about childhood, magic, and the power of memory. It's a short, but powerful read that will stay with you long after you've finished it.
* "The Kingkiller Chronicle" by Patrick Rothfuss: A beautifully written fantasy that focuses on storytelling, music, and the nature of magic. The first book, "The Name of the Wind," is a captivating read with an unforgettable protagonist.
This is just a small sample of what's out there. Be sure to explore independent bookstores, online communities, and author websites to find new and exciting books that you'll love!