Best Fantasy Books of 2010

Below you will find a list of the fantasy books published in 2010 that we enjoyed most. Click on a book title to read the full review.

  2. The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms by N. K. Jemisin

    The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms by N. K. Jemisin book cover

    N. K. Jemisin's debut novel, The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms, is a soaring, exquisitely executed fantasy. Following Yeine, an outcast barbarian thrust into a deadly inheritance contest in the floating palace of Sky, the narrative sparkles with political intrigue and raw tension. What sets Jemisin apart is her stunningly fresh mythology; captive, ancient gods are bound as living weapons by the ruling Arameri family, creating a volatile dynamic of power, lust, and rebellion. Yeine is a brilliant, morally grounded protagonist navigating an alien court. With gorgeous prose and masterful tension, this emotionally resonant tale immediately established Jemisin as a vital voice in modern fantasy.

    Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms by N. K. Jemisin

  6. The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson

    The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson book cover

    "The Way of Kings" is a masterpiece of modern world-building, set on the storm-ravaged world of Roshar. Brandon Sanderson excels at creating "Hard Magic" systems where the rules are as clear and logical as physics, yet remain breathtakingly cinematic. The story shines through its characters: Kaladin's struggle with depression, Shallan's hidden truths, and Dalinar's quest for honour in a fractured society. Their journeys are punctuated by "Sanderson Sandwiches" - climactic moments where multiple plot threads collide with staggering intensity. It is a tale of redemption and "life before death" that rewards patient readers with an epic scope rarely seen in fiction.

    Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson

  7. Under Heaven by Guy Gavriel Kay

    Under Heaven by Guy Gavriel Kay book cover

    Guy Gavriel Kay's Under Heaven is a breathtaking work of art. Drawing inspiration from Tang Dynasty China, the story begins with a beautifully simple, haunting premise: Shen Tai spends two years alone at a remote lake, laboriously burying the unburied bones of fallen soldiers from both sides of a past war. Infused with Taoist philosophy and a profound love of poetry, Kay crafts an unrushed, thoughtful narrative born from years of research. His fluid prose explores themes of mortality, balance, and human compassion. It is a stunning, deeply moving fantasy that lingers in your mind long after the final page.

    Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of Under Heaven by Guy Gavriel Kay

  19. Zoo City by Lauren Beukes

    An intriguing “what if?” urban fantasy story that gives a twist to the contemporary world we live in. This story involves animals and magic, that fits into the world of Zoo City. As well as inviting questions as to why people who are different from the norm are treated in different circumstances.

    Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of Zoo City by Lauren Beukes