Reading is the best form of escapism, and fantasy books will transport you to magical lands, have you befriend mythical creatures, and believe the impossible. The fantasy fiction genre is seemingly ever-present on every bestselling reading chart, and at Wob it is no different. Let your imagination run free and explore the unthinkable with our list of 10 trending fantasy novels of June ‘22.
Children of Blood and Bone – Tomi Adeyemi
They killed my mother. They took our magic. They tried to bury us. Now we rise. Zelie remembers when the soil of Orisha hummed with magic. When different clans ruled – Burners igniting flames, Tiders beckoning waves, and Zelie’s Reaper mother summoning forth souls. But everything changed the night magic disappeared. Under the orders of a ruthless king, anyone with powers was targeted and killed, leaving Zelie without a mother and her people without hope. Only a few people remain with the power to use magic, and they must remain hidden.
The stunningly vibrant fantasy world and mystic magical system created in Tomi Adeyemi’s debut novel makes you want to leap into the page and explore it all yourself. The intensely action-packed storyline is filled with twists, turns and suspense, there is no predicting what might happen next. A wonderfully constructed first instalment of a brilliant story, with a sequel already released and a promised third on the way, there’s plenty of time to catch up. We haven’t even mentioned the spectacular cover art yet…
The Fox’s Curse – Sarah Painter
Lydia Crow has long suspected there is more beneath London than just trains, but has never been keen to poke around in the dark. But when Paul Fox, powerful member of the Fox Family, blackmails her into taking a case, she has no choice. Investigating a suspicious death in a disused tunnel of the London Underground for her ex-boyfriend causes friction between her and DCI Fleet – and not the fun kind. Uncle Charlie is still pressuring her to work for the Family business. Her ghostly flatmate is looking for answers about his own demise, and Maria Silver is out for blood. Preferably Lydia’s.
A wonderful urban fantasy escapade set in an everyday normal world. This paranormal adventure is the third book in Sarah Painter’s gripping Crow Investigations series, and with the seventh instalment recently released we’re not surprised to see the popularity of the fantastic series peak once again. With strong characters and exciting plots, this series is rapidly cementing itself as a modern fantasy classic.
Good Omens – Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman
Armageddon only happens once, you know. They don’t let you go around again until you get it right.” According to the Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch – the world’s only totally reliable guide to the future, written in 1655, before she exploded – the world will end on a Saturday. Next Saturday, in fact. Just after tea… People have been predicting the end of the world almost from its very beginning. So it’s only natural to be sceptical when a new date is set for Judgement Day. This time though, the armies of Good and Evil really do appear to be massing. The four Bikers of the Apocalypse are hitting the road. But both the angels and demons – well, one fast-living demon and a somewhat fussy angel – would quite like the Rapture not to happen. And someone seems to have misplaced the Antichrist…
Two of the most popular and significant contemporary fantasy authors unite to write this modern classic. Combining Terry Pratchett’s incredible imagination with Neil Gaiman’s uproarious wit resulted in this hilariously British satire. The ability to create a side-splitting comedy within the setting of Armageddon not only shows the literary creative genius of the writers, but highlights this book as truly one of a kind. Recently released as a six part television adaptation starring Michael Sheen and David Tennant, this book is as popular as ever, even over 40 years since its initial release.
Rivers of London – Ben Aaronovitch
My name is Peter Grant and until January I was just probationary constable in that mighty army for justice known to all right-thinking people as the Metropolitan Police Service (and as the Filth to everybody else). My only concerns in life were how to avoid a transfer to the Case Progression Unit – we do paperwork so real coppers don’t have to – and finding a way to climb into the panties of the outrageously perky WPC Leslie May. Then one night, in pursuance of a murder inquiry, I tried to take a witness statement from someone who was dead but disturbingly voluble, and that brought me to the attention of Inspector Nightingale, the last wizard in England.
The first instalment in Ben Aaronovitch’s fantastic series, the bestselling Rivers of London has been hugely popular with urban fantasy lovers since its release over 10 years ago. Mixing modern London with magic and paranormal mystery, this book is a must read. The intriguing characters and a witty well crafted plot is the perfect combination for someone looking to get stuck into a new series. With the ninth novel in the Peter Grant series being released earlier this year, the original book is flying high on our trending list.
The Fifth Season – N.K Jemisin
THIS IS THE WAY THE WORLD ENDS . . . FOR THE LAST TIME.
IT STARTS WITH THE GREAT RED RIFT across the heart of the world’s sole continent, spewing ash that blots out the sun.
IT STARTS WITH DEATH, with a murdered son and a missing daughter.
IT STARTS WITH BETRAYAL, and long dormant wounds rising up to fester.
This is the Stillness, a land long familiar with catastrophe, where the power of the earth is wielded as a weapon. And where there is no mercy.
Impressively, all three books in N.K Jemisin’s Broken Earth trilogy were individually awarded Hugo awards for Best Novels, which tells you everything you need to know about the calibre of this captivating science fantasy series. Told through three intertwining narratives, this story mirrors the heartbreak and darkness of human motivations and behaviour. Its harrowing yet powerful message will continue to resonate with many. N.K Jemisin is a truly remarkable storyteller.
Caraval – Stephanie Garber
WELCOME TO CARAVAL, WHERE NOTHING IS QUITE WHAT IT SEEMS . . . Scarlett has never left the tiny isle of Trisda, pining from afar for the wonder of Caraval, a once-a-year week-long performance where the audience participates in the show. Caraval is Magic. Mystery. Adventure. And for Scarlett and her beloved sister Tella it represents freedom and an escape from their ruthless, abusive father. When the sisters’ long-awaited invitations to Caraval finally arrive, it seems their dreams have come true. But no sooner have they arrived than Tella vanishes, kidnapped by the show’s mastermind organiser, Legend. Scarlett has been told that everything that happens during Caraval is only an elaborate performance. But nonetheless she quickly becomes enmeshed in a dangerous game of love, magic and heartbreak. And real or not, she must find Tella before the game is over, and her sister disappears forever.
A magical story full of twists and turns, Stephanie Garber’s Caraval conceptualises everything wonderful about fantasy novels. From adventures in an extraordinary world, to love and heartbreak, this book offers perfect escapism and a journey of discovery. With the full Caraval book trilogy now released, it’s the perfect time to jump into this mystic world.
The Everlasting Rose – Dhonielle Clayton
Camellia and her sisters are Belles. Only they can make us beautiful. All our lives, my sisters and I have served the people of Orleans. For years, they’ve held their abilities against us. Not anymore. Now the queen hunts us, because we know the truth about the rightful heir. Camellia murdered our princess and fled with her sisters. The princess is still alive, and we’ll help her take back the throne. Together, we will return the Belles to their rightful place. The queen wants us caged. But we will not go quietly. Then they will give us what we deserve: beauty, everlasting. We demand our freedom. No matter what the cost.
The sequel in The Belles series, Dhonielle Clayton’s The Everlasting Rose is a fairytale-esque story that mirrors the obsession with beauty in today’s society. The spectacular world-building constructed in this book brings alive the characters, culture and plot. While the series currently stands as a duology, there are quiet murmurs of a potential third instalment in the pipeline, and we are very excited. Nevertheless, this gripping fantasy read holds a powerful message even as a standalone.
The Dragonbone Chair – Tad Williams
Kitchen-boy Simon is bored, restless and fourteen years old – a dangerous combination. It seems, however, that his life has just taken a turn for the better when he’s apprenticed to his castle’s resident wizard. As Simon’s learning to read and write under Doctor Morgenes’ tutelage, forces greater than he could possible imagine are gathering: forces which will change Simon’s life – and his world – forever.
Following the death of Good King John, Osten Ard is plunged into civil war as his sons battle for control of the fabled Dragonbone Chair – the country’s throne as well as the symbol of its power. Simon is forced to flee the only home he has ever known, a journey which will test him beyond his worst nightmares.
An all-time fantasy classic, and a popular favourite amongst readers for decades, Tad Williams’ The Dragonbone Chair wonderfully builds a fantasy world in a spectacularly unique way. The vividness of the locations created makes it feel as if you have visited this world yourself. A brilliant fantasy novel with everything you could want; an epic quest, unlikely heroes and dark powers.
The Name of the Wind – Patrick Rothfuss
I have stolen princesses back from sleeping barrow kings. I burned down the town of Trebon. I have spent the night with Felurian and left with both my sanity and my life. I was expelled from the University at a younger age than most people are allowed in. I tread paths by moonlight that others fear to speak of during day. I have talked to Gods, loved women, and written songs that make the minstrels weep.
My name is Kvothe.
You may have heard of me.
A uniquely brilliant coming-of-age novel, Patrick Rothfuss’ The Name of the Wind gives a first-person account of a wizard’s journey to become the most notoriously powerful warlock of all time. The author’s incredible writing style makes this book a phenomenal read, with every sentence seemingly poetically crafted. One of the most impressive pieces of fantasy literature of all time and a must-read for any avid fantasy fan.
The Hobbit – J.R.R Tolkien
The Hobbit is a tale of high adventure, undertaken by a company of dwarves in search of dragon-guarded gold. A reluctant partner in this perilous quest is Bilbo Baggins, a comfort-loving unambitious hobbit, who surprises even himself by his resourcefulness and skill as a burglar.
Encounters with trolls, goblins, dwarves, elves and giant spiders, conversations with the dragon, Smaug, and a rather unwilling presence at the Battle of Five Armies are just some of the adventures that befall Bilbo.
One Ring to rule them all… four books, six movies and now a television series adaptation is soon to join the Lord of the Rings franchise. With The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power set to hit our screens in the coming months, the original book is as popular as ever. J.R.R Tolkein’s epic fantasy novel is a timeless classic around the world and with our focus very firmly set back on Middle Earth, readers are reloving this book right now.
Love imagined worlds, complex character dynamics, epic battles, and a touch of magic? Check out our entire collection of fantasy books. Interested in the other books that everyone’s talking about lately? From Booktok favourites to the bestsellers getting big-screen adaptations, discover all the books trending right now.
What do you think of our 10 trending fantasy books of June 22? Which fantasy books have you been reading? Let us know in the comments below.
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