1. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Step right up to the magical world of Le Cirque des Rêves! This enchanting circus appears without warning and is only open at night. Dive into a tale of two young illusionists, Celia and Marco, who are bound in a competition they were trained for since childhood. With dazzling descriptions and a plot full of surprises, this book will sweep you off your feet.
2. A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab
Travel through parallel Londons with Kell, one of the last Travelers who can move between worlds. Each London has its own unique magic and dangers. When Kell meets Delilah Bard, a daring thief from Grey London, their adventure turns into a thrilling quest. This book is perfect for anyone looking for a mix of fantasy and adventure.
3. Stardust by Neil Gaiman
Follow the journey of Tristran Thorn as he ventures into the magical land of Faerie to retrieve a fallen star for his beloved. But stars in Faerie aren’t what they seem, and Tristran’s quest will lead him to unexpected places. Neil Gaiman’s whimsical storytelling makes this a delightful read.
4. The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman
This haunting novel blends childhood memories with fantastical elements. When a middle-aged man returns to his hometown for a funeral, he recalls a mysterious and magical experience from his childhood involving a girl named Lettie Hempstock. This story will tug at your heartstrings while transporting you to another world.
5. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
Meet Kvothe, a legendary figure known for his remarkable adventures. Told from Kvothe’s perspective, this book takes you through his life—from his early years in a traveling troupe to his time at a prestigious university of magic. It’s a richly detailed story that promises to captivate you from start to finish.
6. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
Join Bilbo Baggins on an unexpected journey to the Lonely Mountain with a group of dwarves. Along the way, they encounter trolls, elves, and the fearsome dragon Smaug. This classic tale of bravery and friendship is sure to enchant readers of all ages.
7. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
Discover the magical world of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry through the eyes of Harry Potter, an ordinary boy who finds out he’s a wizard. From flying broomsticks to spellbinding classes, every page is filled with wonder and excitement. It’s a must-read for anyone craving a magical adventure.
8. The Magicians by Lev Grossman
Quentin Coldwater’s life changes when he’s accepted into Brakebills College for Magical Pedagogy. As he learns about magic, he discovers that the fantasy world he read about as a child is real—and far more dangerous than he imagined. This book offers a darker, more mature take on magical education.
9. Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke
Set in an alternate 19th-century England, this novel follows two magicians, Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell, as they try to bring magic back to England. Their differing approaches and ambitions lead to a complex and fascinating story filled with historical detail and magical intrigue.
10. The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden
In the cold wilderness of Russia, young Vasilisa grows up hearing fairy tales from her nurse. When her village is threatened by dark forces, she realizes that these stories hold the key to their survival. This beautifully written novel weaves together folklore and fantasy in a captivating way.
11. The City of Brass by S.A. Chakraborty
Nahri, a con artist in 18th-century Cairo, accidentally summons a djinn warrior and discovers her own magical heritage. They journey to Daevabad, the city of brass, where Nahri must navigate political intrigue and her newfound abilities. This book is rich with Middle Eastern mythology and lush descriptions.
12. The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune
Linus Baker, a caseworker for magical children, is sent to evaluate an orphanage on a distant island. There, he meets Arthur Parnassus, the charming caretaker, and six extraordinary children. This heartwarming story is about finding family in unexpected places and believing in magic.
13. Uprooted by Naomi Novik
Agnieszka lives in a quiet village on the edge of the corrupted Wood. When the local wizard, known as the Dragon, chooses her as his servant, she discovers her own magical talents. Together, they must confront the dark forces threatening their land. This book is a blend of fairy tale and epic fantasy.
14. The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow
January Scaller stumbles upon a mysterious book that reveals the existence of hidden doors to other worlds. As she uncovers secrets about her own past, she embarks on a journey that spans multiple realms. This novel is a celebration of the power of stories and the adventures they inspire.
15. The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
This epic fantasy features a world on the brink of war, with dragons, queens, and mages. Ead Duryan is a mage protecting Queen Sabran from an ancient threat, while Tané, a dragonrider, seeks her destiny across the sea. Their stories intertwine in a richly imagined world full of magic and intrigue.
16. The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern
When Zachary Ezra Rawlins discovers a mysterious book that describes his own life, he is drawn into a hidden world beneath the earth. There, he finds a labyrinthine library and a series of magical doors. This book is a love letter to storytelling and the enchanting worlds they create.
