What Are The Top-Rated Fantasy New Books This Month?

I've been diving deep into fantasy lately, and there's this electrifying wave of authors pushing the genre forward. Brandon Sanderson is basically the fantasy MVP right now, pumping out massive worlds like 'The Stormlight Archive' with clockwork precision. His magic systems feel like they've been engineered by a mad scientist—so intricate yet satisfying. Then there's N.K. Jemisin, who rewrites the rules entirely. 'The Broken Earth' trilogy isn’t just fantasy; it’s a seismic shift in storytelling, blending apocalyptic stakes with raw emotional depth. Her prose cracks like a whip, and the worldbuilding? Unmatched. On the flip side, you’ve got Tamsyn Muir’s 'The Locked Tomb' series, which reads like a goth punk fever dream with necromancers and razor-sharp wit. It’s chaotic, hilarious, and somehow makes skeletons emotionally compelling. For something cozier, Travis Baldree’s 'Legends & Lattes' is like a warm hug—low-stakes fantasy about an orc opening a coffee shop. And let’s not forget R.F. Kuang, whose 'Babel' mashes up dark academia and linguistic magic with biting social commentary. These authors aren’t just writing books; they’re crafting entire universes you’ll want to live in (or flee from, depending on the series).

Romance fantasy books have been absolutely killing it this year! I’ve been diving into so many new releases, and let me tell you, the genre is thriving. One standout for me is 'A Fire Endless' by Rebecca Ross. It’s the sequel to 'A River Enchanted,' and it’s just as magical and heart-wrenching. The way Ross weaves romance into a world of elemental magic and political intrigue is breathtaking. The tension between the characters feels so real, and the stakes are sky-high. It’s the kind of book that makes you forget the world exists while you’re reading it. Another gem I’ve been obsessed with is 'The Foxglove King' by Hannah Whitten. This one’s a dark fantasy romance with a forbidden love triangle, necromancy, and a kingdom on the brink of collapse. The chemistry between the characters is electric, and the world-building is so rich it feels like you’re living in it. Whitten has this way of making every scene feel urgent and emotional, and I couldn’t put it down. If you’re into something a bit lighter but still packed with magic, 'Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries' by Heather Fawcett is a must-read. It’s a cozy, whimsical romance with a scholarly twist. The slow-burn romance between Emily and her grumpy yet charming colleague is so satisfying, and the faerie lore is enchanting. It’s the perfect blend of heartwarming and adventurous. Lastly, 'Belladonna' by Adalyn Grace is a gothic fantasy romance that’s been getting a lot of buzz. It’s got murder, mystery, and a brooding love interest who’s literally Death. The atmosphere is so hauntingly beautiful, and the romance is equal parts sweet and dangerous. It’s a book that stays with you long after you’ve finished it.

As a lifelong fantasy enthusiast, I’ve spent years scouring the internet for hidden gems and new releases that won’t break the bank. One of the best places to start is Project Gutenberg, a treasure trove of public domain classics. While these aren’t new releases, they include timeless works like 'The King of Elfland’s Daughter' by Lord Dunsany, which can scratch that fantasy itch. For newer titles, many authors and publishers offer free samples or even full books on platforms like Amazon Kindle. Browsing the 'Free Fantasy' section often reveals indie gems like 'The Lightning Thief' by Rick Riordan, which occasionally pops up as a promotional giveaway. Another underrated resource is Scribd’s free trial, which grants access to a vast library of fantasy novels, including recent releases. While not permanently free, it’s a great way to binge-read new series like 'The Priory of the Orange Tree' by Samantha Shannon without immediate cost. Libraries have also gone digital; apps like Libby and OverDrive let you borrow e-books for free with a library card. I’ve discovered newer titles like 'The City of Brass' by S.A. Chakraborty this way. Some authors, like Brandon Sanderson, even release short stories or novellas for free on their websites to hook readers. It’s worth following your favorite writers on social media for these surprise treats.

As someone who keeps a close eye on the intersection of fantasy literature and anime, I’ve noticed a surge in adaptations recently. One of the most talked-about is 'The Apothecary Diaries,' based on the light novel series by Natsu Hyuuga. The story follows Maomao, a brilliant but eccentric apothecary who gets dragged into palace intrigue. The anime adaptation promises to bring her sharp wit and the intricate political drama to life with stunning visuals. The source material’s blend of mystery, historical fantasy, and a dash of romance has already garnered a dedicated fanbase, and the anime is poised to expand that even further. Another exciting adaptation is 'Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End,' a melancholic yet beautiful fantasy about an elf mage reflecting on her immortal life after her adventuring party has passed away. The manga’s quiet introspection and breathtaking art style have made it a standout, and the anime’s trailer suggests it will capture that same mood perfectly. The story’s exploration of time, loss, and the fleeting nature of human connections is rare in fantasy, making it a must-watch for fans of deeper narratives. For those who prefer action-packed fantasy, 'Sousou no Frieren' is another title to watch. It’s a darker take on the genre, following a group of warriors battling supernatural threats in a war-torn world. The light novels are known for their gritty realism and complex characters, and the anime seems to be leaning into that with its stark animation style and intense fight choreography. The moral ambiguity of the protagonists and the bleak worldbuilding set it apart from more traditional fantasy stories. Lastly, 'The Executioner and Her Way of Life' is getting an anime adaptation, and it’s a personal favorite. The story flips the isekai trope on its head by focusing on a priestess tasked with eliminating otherworldly travelers who disrupt the balance of her world. The philosophical undertones and the dynamic between the two leads make it a refreshing take on the genre. The anime’s previews hint at a stylish, almost cinematic approach to the action scenes, which should complement the source material’s tone beautifully.

I’ve been diving into a lot of fantasy romance lately, and there are some absolute gems that have recently caught my attention. 'A Court of Thorns and Roses' by Sarah J. Maas is one that’s been everywhere—it’s got this addictive blend of faerie lore, slow-burn romance, and high-stakes drama. The world-building is lush, and the chemistry between Feyre and Rhysand is just *chef’s kiss*. Another newer one is 'The Witch Collector' by Charissa Weaks, which mixes witches, fate, and a enemies-to-lovers vibe that’s hard to resist. If you like darker themes, 'The Serpent and the Wings of Night' by Carissa Broadbent is a vampire-filled romantasy with a gripping tournament plot. These books are perfect if you want escapism with heart-pounding romance.

As someone who devours fantasy novels like they're magical artifacts, I've noticed that 2023 has been a stellar year for new releases. Tor Books has consistently been a powerhouse, publishing gems like 'The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi' by Shannon Chakraborty, a swashbuckling tale of pirates and djinns that feels both fresh and timeless. Their catalog this year is packed with diverse voices and imaginative worlds, making them a top contender for the best fantasy publisher. Another standout is Orbit Books, which brought us 'The Shadow of the Gods' by John Gwynne, a Norse-inspired epic that’s as brutal as it is beautiful. Orbit’s ability to balance gritty storytelling with rich world-building is unmatched. On the indie side, Subterranean Press has been quietly releasing stunning limited editions of works like 'The September House' by Carissa Orlando, a haunted house story with a twist. Their attention to detail and quality makes them a favorite among collectors. Meanwhile, DAW Books continues to champion authors like Fonda Lee, whose 'Untethered Sky' is a masterclass in character-driven fantasy. DAW’s commitment to nurturing new talent while maintaining high standards is impressive. For those who prefer their fantasy with a literary edge, Small Beer Press has published 'The Book of Love' by Kelly Link, a surreal and enchanting novel that blurs the lines between fantasy and reality. Their willingness to take risks with unconventional narratives sets them apart. And let’s not forget Harper Voyager, which delivered 'The Scarlet Alchemist' by Kylie Lee Baker, a darkly atmospheric tale of alchemy and revenge. Harper Voyager’s ability to blend genre tropes with fresh perspectives is why they remain a go-to for fantasy fans. Each of these publishers brings something unique to the table, whether it’s Tor’s bold storytelling, Orbit’s epic scale, or Subterranean’s artisanal approach. Depending on what you’re looking for—whether it’s high-stakes adventure, intricate world-building, or something more experimental—there’s a publisher out there hitting all the right notes in 2023.

I've been chasing that 'One Piece' high for years, and let me tell you, the hunt for similar fantasy adventures is real. 'Delicious in Dungeon' (Dungeon Meshi) hits that perfect blend of wild world-building and quirky crew dynamics. It's got pirates replaced with dungeon crawlers, but the same sense of unpredictable discovery and friendship-driven plotlines. The way it balances comedy with high-stakes fantasy reminds me so much of Oda's signature style. For something more nautical, 'Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic' delivers that grand-scale world exploration with a Middle Eastern twist. Alibaba's crew grows just like the Straw Hats, and the political intrigue mixed with supernatural battles scratches the same itch. The anime adaptation is solid, but the manga goes even deeper into lore. Newer titles like 'Kaiju No. 8' surprise me with their 'One Piece'-esque energy—monster battles with a found-family crew and gradual power progression. The art style even has that same chaotic charm during fight scenes. If you miss the 'anything can happen' vibe of the Grand Line, this one's worth checking out.

Fantasy novels climbing the bestseller lists is like watching underdogs turn into champions. It's not just about magic and dragons anymore—these books tap into deeper themes that resonate with readers globally. Take 'The Name of the Wind' or 'The Poppy War'—they blend intricate world-building with raw human struggles, making them impossible to put down. Publishers used to treat fantasy as a niche, but now, with TV adaptations like 'The Witcher' and 'Shadow and Bone,' the genre has exploded into mainstream consciousness. The bestseller lists reflect this shift, with fantasy titles often dominating for months. What's fascinating is how subgenres like dark fantasy or cozy fantasy carve their own paths. Dark fantasy, with its morally gray characters and gritty realism, appeals to readers craving complexity, while cozy fantasy offers escapism without the trauma. Social media plays a huge role too—BookTok and Twitter fandoms can catapult a book from obscurity to the top 10 overnight. The diversity in voices also helps; authors like N.K. Jemisin and Tasha Suri bring fresh perspectives that challenge traditional tropes, drawing in new audiences. It's a golden age for fantasy, and the bestseller lists prove it.