Best Fantasy Books of 1999

Below you will find a list of the fantasy books published in 1999 that we enjoyed most. Click on a book title to read the full review.

  4. Stardust by Neil Gaiman

    Stardust by Neil Gaiman book cover

    Neil Gaiman's Stardust is a luminous tribute to the "Pre-Tolkien" style of portal fantasy, stripping away modern grit for pure, fairytale enchantment. It follows Tristran Thorn, who crosses a forbidden stone wall in his village to retrieve a fallen star for his beloved. The story is fantastic because it subverts expectations - the star is not a rock, but a living woman. Gaiman's prose feels like an ancient myth being whispered in your ear. It balances whimsical wonder with moments of sharp, visceral danger, reminding readers that the land of Faerie is as perilous as it is beautiful.

    Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of Stardust by Neil Gaiman

  5. Gardens Of The Moon by Steven Erikson

    Gardens Of The Moon by Steven Erikson book cover

    Gardens of the Moon is a masterpiece of uncompromising scale. Steven Erikson abandons traditional hand-holding, instead thrusting readers into the middle of a continent-spanning conflict between the Malazan Empire and ancient, god-like forces. Its brilliance lies in its density: the world feels truly ancient, with layers of history, racial tensions, and a "soft" magic system that is as terrifying as it is awe-inspiring. Through the eyes of the gritty Bridgeburners and enigmatic mages like Anomander Rake, Erikson explores themes of futility and courage. It is essential reading because it respects the reader's intelligence, demanding total immersion in exchange for an unparalleled epic scope.

    Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of Gardens Of The Moon by Steven Erikson

  6. Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillier

    Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillier book cover

    Juliet Marillier takes the fairytale of the six swans and transforms it into a breathtaking, immersive world set in Ireland's lush forests. The story follows Sorcha, whose six brothers are turned into swans by their cruel stepmother. To break the magic, Sorcha faces an excruciating silent trial, sewing shirts from painful starwort. What makes this book extraordinary is Sorcha herself. She is a heroine defined by sheer endurance, willpower, and sacrifice rather than physical force. Combined with vivid descriptions of nature, rich folklore, and subtle character relationships, Marillier delivers a deeply moving, unforgettable journey of perseverance.

    Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillier

  7. Dawnthief by James Barclay

    Dawnthief by James Barclay book cover

    James Barclay stands out in action fantasy by creating a story you simply cannot put down. Dawnthief introduces the Raven, a feared mercenary group in Balaia facing an ancient evil. Unlike soft fantasy, this gritty world carries genuine danger: characters drop dead, leave, or get replaced without warning. The combat feels brutal, realistic, and fast-paced, featuring everything from dragons to fatal swordfights. At its core is Hirad Coldheart, a brilliant barbarian warrior whose pure willpower drives the team forward. Delivering fantastic character growth alongside a complete, satisfying plot, Barclay crafts an unmissable read that hooks you instantly.

    Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of Dawnthief by James Barclay