For me, the best fantasy book of 2021 was 'The Last Graduate' by Naomi Novik, published by Del Rey. It’s the second book in her Scholomance series, and it’s packed with dark magic, witty dialogue, and a protagonist who’s both relatable and terrifying. Novik’s writing is sharp, and the pacing is relentless. If you love magical schools with a deadly twist, this one’s a must-read.
I have to say that 2021 was an incredible year for the genre. The book that stood out to me the most was 'The Jasmine Throne' by Tasha Suri, published by Orbit Books. This epic fantasy is rich with political intrigue, complex characters, and a lush, immersive world inspired by Indian mythology.
Another standout was 'The Shadow of the Gods' by John Gwynne, published by Orbit as well. It’s a Norse-inspired tale with brutal battles and deep lore. For those who prefer darker, more intricate stories, 'The Wisdom of Crowds' by Joe Abercrombie, published by Gollancz, delivered a gripping conclusion to his Age of Madness trilogy. Each of these books brought something unique to the table, making 2021 a memorable year for fantasy lovers.
I’ve been reading fantasy for decades, and 2021 had some real gems. 'the blacktongue thief' by Christopher Buehlman, published by Tor, was a breath of fresh air. It’s a gritty, humorous adventure with a rogue protagonist who’s both charming and flawed. The prose is lyrical, and the world feels lived-in. Buehlman’s unique voice makes this book stand out in a crowded field. Another favorite was 'Empire of the Vampire' by Jay Kristoff, published by Harper Voyager. It’s a dark, bloody tale with gorgeous artwork and a compelling narrative.
In 2021, Gollancz published 'The Gates of Athens' by Conn Iggulden, a historical fantasy that brings ancient Greece to life. Iggulden’s meticulous research and vivid storytelling make this a standout. For something more contemporary, 'The Coward' by Stephen Aryan, also from Angry Robot, offered a subversive take on heroism. Both books prove that fantasy is as diverse as it is captivating.
I’m a huge fan of fantasy, and in 2021, Tor Books really knocked it out of the park with 'A Master of Djinn' by P. Djèlí Clark. This book blends alternate history, magic, and detective fiction into something truly special. The world-building is phenomenal, and the characters are unforgettable. Another gem from Tor was 'She Who Became the Sun' by Shelley Parker-Chan, a reimagining of the rise of the Ming Dynasty with a queer, gender-bending twist. Both books showcase Tor’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of fantasy.
2025-08-24 23:32:03
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No choosing. No apologies. No mercy.
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Another standout is 'The Fifth Season' by N.K. Jemisin. This one shattered my expectations of what fantasy could be. The Broken Earth trilogy isn’t just about magic or quests; it’s a raw, emotional exploration of survival, oppression, and resilience. Jemisin’s use of second-person narration in parts of the book was a risky choice, but it pays off spectacularly, making the pain and triumphs of the characters feel intensely personal. Plus, the geological magic system is unlike anything I’d seen before—earthbending taken to apocalyptic levels. It’s no wonder this became the first fantasy series to win three consecutive Hugo Awards.