If you’ve read any of our previous fantasy bestseller picks, you know we’re big fans of specific fantasy sub-genres such as Epic, Dragons & Mythical Creatures, Coming of Age, and Action & Adventure.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to what to read next, so we’ve scoured some bestseller lists and found one from each of our four favourite fantasy sub-genres.
But there’s another sub-genres that captured our attention: Historical Fantasy.
Historical fantasy combines the enchantment of magic and supernatural elements with the rich tapestry of history (usually pre-20th century). These novels often incorporate real historical events, figures, and settings into a world imbued with fantastical elements. While the stories reimagine the past and infuse it with magic, they try to stay true to the essence of the time period.
By intertwining history and fantasy, authors can explore complex themes, delve into the intricacies of different time periods, and even offer fresh perspectives on historical events.
One of the more recent popular historical fantasy novels is Susanna Clarke’s Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell, set in Napoleonic-era England but features some interesting magicians.
We’ve featured two popular historical fantasy books that are less popular but well received.
So, if you’re looking for something new to read in one of these specific fantasy sub-genres, here’s a good list for you.
Fantasy Bestseller Picks: Epic
Blade and Bone by D.K. Holmberg
Fantasy Bestseller Picks: Dragons & Mythical Creatures
Dragon Wars by Ava Richardson
This is Book six in the Rise of the Dragon Riders series, so you might want to start with Book one. But if you enjoy dragon rider books (e.g. Dragon Riders of Pern and Eragon), this series will not disappoint.
Fantasy Bestseller Picks: Coming of Age
The Druid by Jeff Wheeler
Jeff Wheeler writes what many refer to as “clean fantasy” – classic stories without gratuitous or overly descriptive sex scenes, excessive violence and gore, or profanity.
He’s a bestselling author of multiple series set in some very imaginative worlds that will keep you reading for a long time.
Fantasy Bestseller Picks: Action & Adventure
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
I recently succumbed to the internet hype over this book. There were times when I thought about putting it down for fear that I’d been lured into a romance novel disguised as fantasy. And yes, there is plenty of sexual tension and some steamy scenes. But I had trouble putting it down because it ticks so many boxes: epic, action & adventure, dragons, coming of age, great characters and dialogue, and yes, romance.
Fantasy Bestseller Picks: Historical
The Librarian of Crooked Lane by C.J. Archer
Sylvia Ashe, a librarian, is haunted by the enigma of her heritage. Raised in the shadow of a fatherless upbringing, her mother’s steadfast silence regarding his identity has left her in the dark about her own past. Her world takes an intriguing turn when she stumbles upon a diary that hints at a lineage steeped in magic, but skepticism keeps her grounded. To her, magicians represent an echelon of the extraordinary, while she humbly considers herself an ordinary girl with an ardent love for books.
Driven by a desire for truth, Sylvia embarks on a quest to uncover her mysterious ancestry. Her journey leads her to seek answers from a member of the illustrious magician’s lineage, hoping to unearth the secrets shrouding her past. However, Sylvia soon discovers that unveiling the truth will be no easy feat. As she delves deeper into her quest, Sylvia finds herself entangled in a web of complexity and danger, far beyond the pages of any book she’s ever read.
Keeper of Enchanted Rooms by Charlie N. Holmberg
This is currently on my TBR list. I’ve read a few of Holmberg’s books and always enjoy her unique plots.
In 1846, Merritt Fernsby, a reclusive writer estranged from his family, inherits the remote Whimbrel House in Rhode Island’s Narragansett Bay. However, what seems like an idyllic retreat takes a sinister turn when the doors mysteriously lock behind him, making escape impossible. As he delves into the estate’s dark history, Merritt discovers that Whimbrel House holds supernatural secrets that threaten his very existence. In a desperate battle for freedom and truth, he must confront both human and otherworldly forces that bind him to this malevolent estate.
We hope you find something interesting here. Let us know if you have a favorite to add to any of these fantasy sub-genres.
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