Asking a reader to pick a favorite book is like asking a writer to choose a favorite character. So, for 2024, I’ve picked ten of my favorite fantasy novels to recommend. Because why not?
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Lumen by J. J. Fisher
I love the mix of dystopian and fantasy in this world. Not to mention the intense, emotional depth of the characters and the complicated, hard questions they are forced to confront about themselves and what they believe. (Warning: this is book 2 of 3. Calor, the first book, was also amazing. The third one is on my shelf and next in line to be read.)
Blood of the Stars by Karyne Norton
First off, that cover is gorgeous, and I love it so much. This book contains one of the most unique fantasy worlds (next to Sanderson’s) that I’ve read in a long time, including dragons and creatures that are reborn every month with the moon. The characters and plot both engage the emotions. I can’t wait for the next book!
Nightmare Virus by Nadine Brandes
One of the best overtly Christian fantasy/dystopian books I’ve read in a long time. Again, the world was unique, and the characters emotionally ‘connectable.’ (I feel like there’s a theme here, of the books I love…) And Nadine did an amazing job weaving in faith without it coming across as preachy or on the nose.
Wind and Truth by Brandon Sanderson
Because of course. Sanderson. To be honest, this isn’t my favorite book of the Stormlight Archive. Because it’s the midpoint of a longer series, elements of the ending felt more paused than resolved. Which is kinda the point, I suppose. Like all of Sanderson’s books, this one is chock full of epic moments, humor, and twists. Though I was disappointed that he also added a romantic subplot between two secondary characters (both men).
Wonderland Trials by Sara Ella
Another fantasy/dystopian mashup. I’ve been told by people who know better that fantasy/dystopian is a very niche genre and hard to publish in. As this list shows, I must be part of that audience because I’ve read at least three or four this year. The Wonderland Trials are whismical, dangerous, and engaging. I loved all Alice in Wonderland elements and am currently deep into book 2 of the duology.
Graywolf’s Heart by C. M. Banschbach
Brothers. Found family. Young men willing to risk everything to protect those they love. This standalone novel is an exciting adventure with great characters to root for. (There is a companion novel about one of my favorite secondary characters too and I’m hoping to get it at some point!)
Defy the Night by Brigid Kemmerer
What happens when the land is dying from a strange sickness and only the rich can pay for the cure? What happens when your role requires you to be ruthless when all you really want to do is help? Characters, emotions, prose… this book is up among my top ten of the year.
Brand of Light by Ronie Kendig
With a twist ending I was not expecting, this scifi was an exciting race to discover a prophecy and avoid enemies. I definitely need to read the next books in this series as well.
Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross
I loved this book (and the sequel)! A rivals-to-lovers romance, but tastefully done with plenty of fun emotions. It’s yet another fantasy world bridging on the edge of dystopia, and gods that walk among humans with music as power.
The Eternity Gate by Katherine Briggs
A fast-paced story to discover the true history of broken promises and lost treasure before it is too late. While I sometimes wished we could linger more on the main character’s emotions and thought processes, I still enjoyed this book and concept quite a bit!
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What is one of your favorite books from last year?
I have The Eternity Gate, Divine Rivals, and Calor on my list to read! I also really loved The Wonderland Trials and The Nightmare Virus–the explicit Christian themes in Nightmare Virus were really interesting to study.