Top-Rated Fantasy Novels of 2021

Are you thirsting for a remarkable magic-infused journey in the world of contemporary fantasy books? The bewitching power of fantasy novels in 2021 has enthralled readers all over the globe, penetrating every corner of our imagination. There's no denying the allure of this captivating genre and the spine-tingling sensation of tracing the arcs of bold adventurers, crafty elves, fierce dragons, and mystic worlds.

This blog post compiles the top rated fantasy novels—from horizons old and new - these are the must-read fantasy novels that will spirit you away from the mundane everyday grind, and plunge you headfirst into realms where anything wondrous, otherworldly, and tantalizingly magical is possible.

A Journey into the World of Modern Fantasy Books

Diving into the enticing realm of modern fantasy books, the first stop on our list is Sarah J Maas' House of Earth and Blood. It's unarguably one of the must-read contemporary fantasy books with an edge of its own. Of course, it's not merely the enchanting backdrop of a world where humans, fae, and other mythical creatures coexist that makes it shine, but also the intricately woven plot and deep, relatable characters. As a protagonist, Bryce Quinlan enacts revenge for her friends' gruesome murder, inevitably drawing readers into her bitter-sweet web of loss, retribution, and resilient hope.

Children of Blood and Bone

Next up, we delve into Tomi Adeyemi's mesmerizing world in Children of Blood and Bone. This young adult fantasy book has a rich, cultural influence, making it a standout. The use of magic in contemporary literature is often predictable, but not here. Indeed, Adeyemi revitalizes the traditional constructs of magic, giving it a vibrant, contemporary spin. This fantasy book series will have you binge-read in no time.

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue

Among the top-rated fantasy novels, it's impossible to overlook the brilliant The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by VE Schwab. This standalone fantasy novel is an intricate dance between time and memory. It's not the usual high-stakes fantasy setting. Yet, its phenomenal narrative of immortality, loneliness, and the enduring human will makes it an irreplaceable gem in contemporary fantasy books.

The House in the Cerulean Sea

Skipping to more recent fantasy reads, we have the thrilling The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune. More than just a pretty cover, it's a heartwarming narrative that combines magic and charm in the most unexpected of ways. The result – a comforting yet thought-provoking exploration of difference, acceptance, and love.

“The Priory of the Orange Tree”

Let's not forget, “The Priory of the Orange Tree” by Samantha Shannon is one of the most award-winning fantasy books. This versatile high-fantasy novel with its strong female leads, intricate world-building, and arresting plot twists has earned a dominant spot in contemporary fantasy literature.

Diversity in Modern Fantasy Books

What's interesting is how diverse these contemporary fantasy books are. Each magnificent in its own right; each offering a unique experience. Whether it's their enticing plotlines, varied magic systems, complex characters, or intriguing twists, they all possess the essence of being unmistakably captivating. From familiar settings with modern twists to unknown mystical universes, each one represents a facet of the vast, glittering mosaic that is the realm of contemporary fantasy literature.

25 Must-Read Contemporary Fantasy Books for Middle Graders and YA Kids

- Harry Potter and the Cursed Child by J.K. Rowling, John Tiffany & Jack Thorne
- The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
- Percy Jackson & The Olympians series by Rick Riordan
- A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
- Inkheart by Cornelia Funke
- Divergent by Veronica Roth
- Eragon (The Inheritance Cycle series) by Christopher Paolini
- The Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare
- His Dark Materials series by Philip Pullman
- The Giver by Lois Lowry
- The Maze Runner by James Dashner
- Oathbringer (The Stormlight Archive series) by Brandon Sanderson
- The School of Good and Evil series by Soman Chainani
- Artemis Fowl series by Eoin Colfer
- The Raven Cycle series by Maggie Stiefvater
- Six of Crows duology by Leigh Bardugo
- The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
- The Golden Compass (His Dark Materials series) by Philip Pullman
- The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (The Chronicles of Narnia series) by C.S. Lewis
- Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer
- The Lord of the Rings series by J.R.R. Tolkien
- The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
- The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel series by Michael Scott
- The Shadow Thieves (Cronus Chronicles series) by Anne Ursu
- The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

Contemporary Fantasy Books Recommendations

So there you have it fellow fantasy enthusiasts - my selection of a few mesmerizing contemporary fantasy books that are bound to wisp you away into a dimension drenched in magic, brimming with might and laden with emotions.

They are not just books, but doorways to magical escapades awaiting to be discovered, loved and remembered. Regale in the enchanting tales that weave together elements of engaging plots, multifaceted characters, blurred boundaries between the seen and unseen, and the enthralling spectacle of magic in everyday life.

Each turn of the page promises a magical journey, leading you further, deeper, until you're lost in a world fashioned by the boundless expanse of imagination.

Pick up these books, surrender to the allure of their magical whispers, and embark on journeys that promise to be as diverse and spellbinding as the genre itself. Keep reading, keep exploring, for in the world of fantasy novels, there's always a new adventure at the horizon.

Other Stuff You May Like:

25 Must-Read Contemporary Fantasy Books for Middle Graders and YA Kids

- Harry Potter and the Cursed Child by J.K. Rowling, John Tiffany & Jack Thorne
- The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
- Percy Jackson & The Olympians series by Rick Riordan
- A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
- Inkheart by Cornelia Funke
- Divergent by Veronica Roth
- Eragon (The Inheritance Cycle series) by Christopher Paolini
- The Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare
- His Dark Materials series by Philip Pullman
- The Giver by Lois Lowry
- The Maze Runner by James Dashner
- Oathbringer (The Stormlight Archive series) by Brandon Sanderson
- The School of Good and Evil series by Soman Chainani
- Artemis Fowl series by Eoin Colfer
- The Raven Cycle series by Maggie Stiefvater
- Six of Crows duology by Leigh Bardugo
- The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
- The Golden Compass (His Dark Materials series) by Philip Pullman
- The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (The Chronicles of Narnia series) by C.S. Lewis
- Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer
- The Lord of the Rings series by J.R.R. Tolkien
- The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
- The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel series by Michael Scott
- The Shadow Thieves (Cronus Chronicles series) by Anne Ursu
- The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman