Explore the Magic: 2024's Top Fantasy Books
Explore the Magic in 2023's Top Fantasy Books
Best fantasy books 2023 have truly set the bar high with thrilling new releases and iconic returns. If you're looking for the best reads of the year, here are some must-reads:
- Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
- The Way Home by Peter S. Beagle
- A Day of Fallen Night by Samantha Shannon
Fantasy literature has thrived in 2023, thanks in large part to the influence of TikTok. BookTok has transformed authors into overnight sensations and helped tip titles into bestseller territory. As a result, more readers are diving into fantastical fields than ever before.
Read on to find the enchanting worlds and unforgettable characters that have captivated readers, both old and new.
I'm Roxie Lubanovic. With my background in English Literature and a passion for fantasy, I bring you an insider's view on best fantasy books 2023. Let's explore the magic together!
The Winners of 2023
When it comes to best fantasy books 2023, one title stands out: Hell Bent by Leigh Bardugo. This book not only captivated readers but also won the Fantasy category this year. It’s the sequel to Ninth House, which took home the same award in 2019.
Leigh Bardugo has become a household name in fantasy literature. Her ability to weave intricate plots with compelling characters has earned her a devoted following. Hell Bent continues the story of Alex Stern, a Yale student with the rare ability to see the dead. This dark academia series offers a mix of secret societies, occult rituals, and interdimensional portals, making it a must-read for fantasy enthusiasts.
Why Hell Bent Stands Out: - Thematic Depth: The sequel dives deeper into moral quandaries and philosophical questions. - Complex Characters: Bardugo's characters are more nuanced and layered, adding richness to the narrative. - Dark Academia Setting: The Ivy League backdrop filled with secrets and supernatural elements is both eerie and fascinating.
Ninth House and Its Legacy
Ninth House set the stage for Hell Bent by introducing us to a world where the elite of Yale are part of secret societies that dabble in dark magic. Alex Stern’s journey from a troubled past to navigating this perilous new world captivated readers and critics alike. The book's success paved the way for its sequel to become one of the best fantasy books 2023.
Key Elements of Ninth House: - Unique Protagonist: Alex Stern is a scrappy, resilient heroine who brings a fresh perspective to the genre. - Intricate World-Building: Bardugo’s detailed depiction of Yale’s secret societies adds an extra layer of intrigue. - Blend of Genres: The mix of dark academia and paranormal elements makes the series stand out.
Quote from Leigh Bardugo:
“I wanted to write a story where the monsters were both literal and metaphorical, where the real horrors were the ones we create.”
Case Study: The Bardugo Effect Leigh Bardugo’s impact on the fantasy genre is undeniable. Her books have not only won awards but have also set new trends in dark academia and paranormal fantasy. The success of Hell Bent and Ninth House shows how a well-crafted story can resonate with a wide audience, making them essential reads for anyone exploring the best fantasy books 2023.
Next, we’ll dig into other standout titles from 2023, including The Fourth Wing and The Way Home.
Best Fantasy Books 2023
Trending Subgenres in Fantasy
Romantasy
In 2023, romantasy—a blend of romance and fantasy—rose to prominence. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros exemplifies this trend. The book combines a war college setting for dragon riders with a sizzling enemies-to-lovers romance. The story's high-stakes competitions and political intrigue make it a must-read.
Dark Academia
Leigh Bardugo's Hell Bent continues to set the standard for dark academia. This subgenre mixes academic settings with elements of mystery and the supernatural. Hell Bent follows secret societies and occult rituals at an Ivy League school, making it a gripping read for fans of dark themes and complex plots.
High Fantasy
Samantha Shannon's A Day of Fallen Night shows the enduring appeal of high fantasy. This prequel to The Priory of the Orange Tree offers a richly imagined world, focusing on female-driven narratives and intricate world-building. It's a doorstopper epic that spans centuries and kingdoms.
Standout Authors and Their Impact
Leigh Bardugo
Leigh Bardugo has had a significant impact on modern fantasy. Her Hell Bent not only won the Goodreads Fantasy category but also helped shape the dark academia subgenre. Bardugo's ability to blend dark themes with compelling characters makes her books essential reads for 2023.
Rebecca Yarros
Rebecca Yarros has taken the fantasy world by storm with Fourth Wing. This BookTok sensation combines high fantasy with romance, captivating a diverse audience. The sequel, Iron Flame, has kept the momentum going, proving Yarros's staying power in the genre.
Peter S. Beagle
Peter S. Beagle's return to The Last Unicorn with The Way Home is a gift to long-time fans. This book, comprising two novellas, explores themes of regret, love, and the inevitability of death. Beagle's storytelling continues to resonate, making The Way Home a standout in 2023.
Next, we’ll dig into the top fantasy series to dive into, including classics like A Song of Ice and Fire and The Lord of the Rings.
Top Fantasy Series to Dive Into
Epic Sagas and Their Cultural Influence
A Song of Ice and Fire
George R.R. Martin's series has become a cultural phenomenon, especially with the HBO adaptation, Game of Thrones. The intricate political intrigue, complex characters, and unexpected plot twists have made it a must-read for fantasy fans. The series' influence extends beyond books, inspiring countless adaptations and discussions.
The Lord of the Rings
J.R.R. Tolkien's masterpiece is often considered the foundation of modern fantasy. The epic journey of Frodo and the Fellowship to destroy the One Ring has captivated readers for decades. Its themes of friendship, courage, and the battle between good and evil continue to resonate, making it a timeless classic.
The Kingkiller Chronicle
Patrick Rothfuss introduces us to Kvothe, a gifted young man with a tragic past, in The Name of the Wind and The Wise Man's Fear. The series is known for its lyrical prose and deep world-building. Fans eagerly await the final installment, hoping for answers to the many mysteries that Rothfuss has woven.
Must-Reads for Series Fans
Memory, Sorrow and Thorn
Tad Williams' trilogy, starting with The Dragonbone Chair, is a direct inspiration for Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire. The story of Simon, a kitchen boy turned hero, is filled with dark magic, ancient prophecies, and epic battles. It's a must-read for fans of intricate, character-driven fantasy.
The Stormlight Archive
Brandon Sanderson's epic series begins with The Way of Kings. Known for its unique magic systems and sprawling world, the series follows the struggles of humanity on the storm-ravaged world of Roshar. Sanderson's meticulous plotting and deep characters make this a standout in contemporary fantasy.
The Wheel of Time
Robert Jordan's monumental series spans 14 books, beginning with The Eye of the World. The story of Rand al'Thor and his quest to defeat the Dark One is filled with rich lore, diverse cultures, and a vast array of characters. The series has left a lasting legacy, influencing many modern fantasy authors.
These series are essential for any fantasy fan, offering rich worlds and unforgettable characters. Whether you're new to the genre or a seasoned reader, these epic sagas will transport you to fields of magic and trip.
Emerging Fantasy Themes and Settings
Unique Magic Systems Explored in 2023
2023 brought some fascinating and innovative magic systems to the forefront of fantasy literature. Here are a few that stood out:
Dragons: Dragons roared back into popularity this year. In Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros, the bond between dragon riders and their majestic beasts is central to the story. This high-stakes world of dragon-riding at a war college is a thrilling ride for fantasy lovers.
Death Magic: A Study in Drowning by Ava Reid dives deep into the dark edges of folklore, using death magic as a key element. This magic system not only sets the tone for the story but also explores themes of agency and trauma.
Bone Shard Magic: In The Jasad Heir by Sara Hashem, bone shard magic plays a crucial role. This unique system involves using bone shards to power magical constructs, adding depth and intrigue to the world-building.
Settings That Captured Readers' Imaginations
2023 also introduced readers to some mesmerizing and immersive settings:
Magical Academia: Leigh Bardugo's Hell Bent continues to enchant readers with its dark academia setting. The story, set in the shadowy corners of Yale, combines academic intrigue with supernatural elements, making it a must-read.
Secret Societies: Secret societies have always fascinated readers, and Hell Bent leverages this theme masterfully. The hidden groups within Yale drive much of the story's tension and mystery.
Medieval Islamic World: Shannon Chakraborty's The Trips of Amina Al-Sirafi takes readers to a richly detailed medieval Islamic world. This setting, combined with a pirate trip and strange magic, offers a fresh perspective in fantasy literature.
Magical Libraries: Libraries have always been magical places, but in 2023, they became literal settings for enchantment. A Day of Fallen Night by Samantha Shannon features libraries that are not just repositories of knowledge but also centers of magical power.
Interdimensional Portals: The concept of interdimensional travel added a layer of complexity and wonder to several stories this year. These portals allowed characters to explore new worlds and realities, adding depth and excitement to the narratives.
These unique magic systems and captivating settings have made 2023 a remarkable year for fantasy literature. Each book offers a fresh take on traditional themes, ensuring that readers are continually enchanted and surprised.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Fantasy Books 2023
Who won Goodreads 2023 fantasy?
In 2023, Leigh Bardugo claimed the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Fantasy with her book Hell Bent. This sequel to Ninth House has solidified Bardugo's place at the top of the dark academia genre. The novel's mix of secret societies, occult rituals, and interdimensional portals has captivated readers and critics alike.
What is the trending fiction genre of fantasy romance in 2023?
The trending fiction genre of 2023 is undoubtedly romantasy. This blend of romance and fantasy has gained immense popularity, with books like Rebecca Yarros' Fourth Wing leading the charge. Romantasy combines the emotional depth of romance with the imaginative settings of fantasy, creating stories that are both heartwarming and thrilling.
What is the number one fantasy book?
According to various sources, including Circana data, the number one fantasy book of the year is Sarah J. Maas' A Court of Thorns and Roses. This book has seen a resurgence in popularity thanks to the "BookTok" community on TikTok. With its intricate world-building and compelling romance, it's no surprise that it has topped bestseller lists and captured the hearts of millions.
These frequently asked questions highlight the standout books and trends in the fantasy genre for 2023, offering a glimpse into the magical worlds that have enchanted readers this year.
Conclusion
2023 has been a remarkable year for fantasy literature. From the resurgence of classic tales to the emergence of new voices, the genre has seen a wealth of creativity and imagination. Books like Rebecca Yarros’s Fourth Wing, Peter S. Beagle’s The Way Home, and Samantha Shannon’s A Day of Fallen Night have captivated us with their unique worlds and unforgettable characters. Leigh Bardugo’s Hell Bent has also made a significant impact, continuing the dark academia trend with its gripping narrative.
Reflections on 2023
This year, we saw a blend of high fantasy, romantasy, and dark academia capturing the imaginations of readers worldwide. The influence of social media platforms like TikTok cannot be overstated, as they have played a crucial role in bringing these books to a broader audience. The themes of dragons, secret societies, and magical academia have particularly resonated, offering both escapism and profound storytelling.
Looking Forward to 2024
As we look ahead to 2024, the anticipation for new releases is palpable. We expect more epic sagas, innovative magic systems, and diverse settings that will continue to push the boundaries of the genre. Whether it's the continuation of beloved series or the introduction of fresh narratives, there’s much to look forward to.
At Frostbeard Studio, we’re excited to explore these new worlds with you. Our collection of fantasy-themed candles is designed to improve your reading experience, bringing the magic of these stories into your home.
Stay tuned for more updates and recommendations as we continue to celebrate the best in fantasy literature. Here’s to another year of magical trips and unforgettable tales!
Thank you for joining us on this journey through the best fantasy books of 2023. We can’t wait to see what 2024 has in store for us all. Happy reading!
