A gateway to magical worlds: top fantasy books for readers new to the genre

An excellent alternative to the "Harry Potter" series, "Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief" is a fantastic introduction to the world of fantasy for readers of all ages. The story follows Percy Jackson, a 12-year-old boy who discovers he's a demigod, the son of Poseidon. As he embarks on a thrilling quest to prevent a war among the gods, Percy encounters a cast of unforgettable characters inspired by Greek mythology. With its action-packed narrative, relatable protagonist, and engaging blend of modern and ancient elements, "Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief" is a must-read for anyone looking to explore the fantasy genre.

"If my life is going to mean anything, I have to live it myself." - Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief

Buy now on Amazon: The Lightning Thief by Rich Riordan

"The Hobbit" is another classic that serves as an excellent entry point into fantasy literature. This prequel to "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy follows the adventures of Bilbo Baggins, a small, unassuming hobbit who finds himself on a thrilling quest to reclaim a treasure guarded by a fearsome dragon. With its charming prose and memorable characters, "The Hobbit" will transport you to the enchanting world of Middle-earth.

"There is nothing like looking, if you want to find something. You certainly usually find something if you look, but it is not always quite the something you were after." - The Hobbit

Buy now on Amazon: The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

Blending romance, action, and fantasy, "A Court of Thorns and Roses" is an enthralling retelling of "Beauty and the Beast." When Feyre, a human huntress, kills a wolf in the forest, she's taken to the magical realm of the faeries as retribution. There, she uncovers a dark plot threatening the land and must decide where her loyalties lie. With its engaging characters and vivid world-building, this novel is a fantastic entry point for readers new to fantasy.

"Don't feel bad for one moment about doing what brings you joy." - A Court of Thorns and Roses

Buy now on Amazon: A Court of Flames and Roses by Sarah J Maas

This timeless children's classic is an ideal starting point for those new to fantasy. Four siblings discover a magical wardrobe that transports them to the fantastical world of Narnia, where they embark on a quest to save the land from the evil White Witch. Filled with talking animals, mythical creatures, and captivating storytelling, "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" will ignite your imagination and spark your love for fantasy.

"Some journeys take us far from home. Some adventures lead us to our destiny." - The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Buy now on Amazon: The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

"Graceling" is a young adult fantasy novel perfect for readers who enjoy strong, complex female characters. Set in a world where some individuals possess unique abilities called Graces, the story follows Katsa, a young woman with a deadly Grace that makes her a formidable assassin. This action-packed adventure, filled with romance and self-discovery, is an excellent introduction to fantasy for those seeking a gripping, character-driven tale.

"I'm not going to wear a red dress," she said. "It would look stunning, My Lady," she called. She spoke to the bubbles gathered on the surface of the water. "If there's anyone I wish to stun at dinner, I'll hit him in the face." - Graceling

Buy now on Amazon: Graceling by Kristin Cashore

For those who enjoy a touch of romance and whimsy, "The Night Circus" is a magical choice. Set in a mysterious, enchanting circus that only appears at night, this beautifully written tale follows two young illusionists locked in a deadly competition. As their lives intertwine, they must navigate a world of magic, love, and sacrifice. With its lush prose and enchanting atmosphere, "The Night Circus" is an immersive reading experience that will leave you spellbound.

"The circus arrives without warning. No announcements precede it. It is simply there when yesterday it was not." - The Night Circus

Buy now on Amazon: The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

If you're a fan of dark, twisted fairy tales, "The Cruel Prince" is the perfect introduction to the fantasy genre. This young adult novel follows Jude, a human girl who's been raised in the treacherous world of Faerie after her parents' murder. As she navigates the dangerous politics and deceptions of the fae court, she must confront her own desires for power and revenge. With its morally ambiguous characters and gripping plot, "The Cruel Prince" is an addictive read that will have you turning the pages well into the night.

"Instead of being afraid, I could become something to fear." - The Cruel Prince

Buy now on Amazon: The Cruel Prince by Holly Black

For readers seeking an epic fantasy with a unique magic system, "Mistborn: The Final Empire" is an excellent starting point. In a world where magic is fueled by metals, a young street urchin named Vin discovers her own extraordinary powers and joins a crew of rebels seeking to overthrow the oppressive Final Empire. Sanderson's accessible writing style and intricate world-building make this a perfect entry point for those new to the genre.

"The best lies about me are the ones I told." - Mistborn: The Final Empire

Buy now on Amazon: Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson

Inspired by Eastern European folklore, "Uprooted" is a standalone fantasy novel that weaves a tale of magic, friendship, and courage. When a young woman named Agnieszka is chosen to serve the mysterious wizard known as the Dragon, she discovers her own latent magical abilities and becomes embroiled in a battle against a malevolent, encroaching forest. With its lush prose and richly imagined world, "Uprooted" is a captivating read that will leave you wanting more.

"Our Dragon doesn't eat the girls he takes, no matter what stories they tell outside our valley." - Uprooted

Buy now on Amazon: Uprooted by Naomi Novik

A fantastic choice for fans of urban fantasy, "City of Bones" introduces readers to the world of the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the world of demons. When Clary Fray witnesses a murder at a New York City nightclub, she's drawn into the hidden world of the supernatural and discovers her own connection to the Shadowhunters. With its relatable characters, action-packed plot, and the backdrop of modern-day New York, "City of Bones" is an engaging introduction to the fantasy genre.

"You could have had anything else in the world, and you asked for me." - City of Bones

Buy now on Amazon: City of Bones by Cassandra Clare