Best Fantasy Books of 2017

Below you will find a list of the fantasy books published in 2017 that we enjoyed most. Click on a book title to read the full review.

The Fall of Arthur by JRR Tolkien

J. R. R. Tolkien's The Fall of Arthur is a magnificent, unexpected treat that showcases his vast literary talent beyond Middle-earth. Written in gorgeous, accessible alliterative verse, this unfinished poem breathes fresh life into the legends of King Arthur, Guinevere, Lancelot, and Mordred. It feels both deeply rooted in classic medieval tradition and uniquely shaped by Tolkien's own imaginative genius. Christopher Tolkien's insightful accompanying essays offer a fascinating peak behind the curtain, exploring how the work connects to Arthurian lore and his father's wider legendarium. It is a captivating, beautifully crafted read that any true fantasy lover will thoroughly enjoy.

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The Stone Sky by N. K. Jemisin

N. K. Jemisin delivers a magnificent conclusion to her Broken Earth trilogy with The Stone Sky. First published on 15th August 2017, this science fantasy novel brings the epic story to a stunning close. It earned the prestigious Hugo Award, Nebula Award, and Locus Award for Best Novel in 2018. The book blends science fiction, novel, and fantasy fiction genres seamlessly, providing a deeply satisfying payoff for fans. Highly positive reviews upon its release were well deserved. It stands out as an exceptional read, cementing Jemisin as a master of modern speculative fiction.

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Godsgrave by Jay Kristoff

Jay Kristoff delivers an absolute masterclass that avoids the classic second book slump, keeping a razor-sharp edge throughout. Mia's journey as a gladiator to reach her target forces her to rethink her identity beyond simple vengeance. The world-building is grand, the gladiatorial arena fights feel cinematic, and the prose flows with effortless style. Kristoff never shies away from killing characters, breaking friendships, or taking daring risks. Combined with dark magic, brilliant sex scenes, and a protagonist who is equal parts clever, flawed, and brutal, this dark fantasy is a triumphant sequel that completely exceeds expectations.

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Tarnished City by Vic James

Vic James surpasses her debut with Tarnished City, a dark, urgent sequel to Gilded Cage. Following Abi's desperate quest to rescue Luke from brutal imprisonment, the narrative effortlessly expands through a multi-perspective cast. Intertwining the views of rebels, Equals, and wildcards like Silyen, James crafts a rich portrait of a fractured United Kingdom. The stakes feel higher, the twists hit harder, and the emotional impact of character deaths lands with real weight. The exploration of hidden Skill magic brings fresh depth to the world. It is an addictive, high-stakes dystopian fantasy that proves impossible to put down.

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Red Sister by Mark Lawrence

Mark Lawrence solidifies his place as a top-tier fantasy storyteller with this exceptional world-building triumph. Set on a harsh, dying planet, the story follows Nona, a cast-out orphan saved from gallows execution and taken in by the deadly convent of Sweet Mercy. While it embraces familiar magic academy tropes, Lawrence elevates the narrative through remarkably grounded relationships, fierce sisterhood, and high-stakes combat. Nona is a magnificent protagonist, matching intensity with deep loyalty. Though missing some of the author's signature dark wit, the rich character work makes this a gripping, superior dark fantasy that leaves you eager for more.

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A Conjuring of Light by V. E. Schwab

Picking up right after that brutal cliffhanger, this final chapter plunges straight into pure, high-stakes chaos. Osaron makes for a terrifying antagonist, making the threat against Red London feel genuinely hopeless at times. Yet what makes this conclusion shine isn't just the relentless pacing; it's the rich character work. Unpacking Holland's tragic backstory adds immense depth, making every alliance feel earned and every sacrifice hit hard. Schwab balances intense action with quiet, emotional beat, delivering a deeply satisfying, bittersweet farewell to these beloved worlds. It is everything a trilogy finale should be: grand, heartbreaking, and impossible to put down.

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Beren and Luthien by J. R. R. Tolkien

Beren and Luthien is a masterclass in myth-making, offering fantasy lovers a breathtaking glimpse into Tolkien's creative process. Blending literary history with epic storytelling, Christopher Tolkien meticulously traces the evolution of this central Middle-earth legend through both prose and exquisite verse. While its deep lore appeals primarily to seasoned fans of The Silmarillion, the narrative's emotional core and rhythmic poetry remain immensely captivating. It stands as a moving tribute to a grand romance, reigniting pure wonder for Middle-earth and proving essential reading for anyone who treasures the sheer depth of high fantasy.

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The Witchwood Crown by Tad Williams

Tad Williams proves he is a master of epic fantasy with The Witchwood Crown. Returning to Osten Ard without having read the original trilogy poses no issue at all. The worldbuilding is vast, bleak, and layered with rich history that anchors the plot. King Simon is an overwhelmed monarch surrounded by betrayal, while his grandson Morgan shows immense potential for growth. Even the mysterious Norns carry surprising depth rather than simple malice. This is careful, deliberate fantasy reminiscent of Robin Hobb's best work. It is a stark, compelling clash of cultures that demands to be read.

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The Seven by Peter Newman

A brilliant end to a brilliant trilogy. Standing out in a crowded market is tough, but Peter Newman manages it by fusing post-apocalyptic sci-fi, dark fantasy, and horror. What makes it work is how the magic links back to forgotten pre-apocalypse technology. The sleeping gods, The Seven, return to save humanity, only to launch a brutal purge against the mutated tainted. It is a sharp, tragic reversal. With deep moral ambiguity, fantastic character arcs, and the Vagrant back in action, the climax delivers on every front. Highly recommended dark fantasy.

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Gilded Cage by Vic James

Vic James debuts with an absolute masterpiece of alternate-history fantasy. Set in a dark, modern England where a magical aristocracy called the Equals rule over commoners forced into ten years of brutal servitude, this story grips you immediately. The setting feels timeless, blending modern elements with a eerie Victorian atmosphere that makes the world feel fresh and deeply mysterious. James crafts gorgeous, polished prose while delivering a tense plot filled with rebel uprisings, political intrigue, and hidden secrets. It is an emotionally charged, disturbing, and utterly captivating read that will leave fantasy lovers desperate for the next installment.

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The Fifth Empire of Man by Rob J Hayes

Rob J Hayes delivers a masterclass in grimdark fantasy with The Fifth Empire of Man. Rejoining Drake Morrass, Keelin Stillwater, and Elaina Black yields explosive, high-stakes piratical action. Hayes achieves character depth that rivals major genre staples, effortlessly elevating former side characters into fully fleshed favourites. The story enthralls through gigantic sea battles, grotesque monstrosities, intricate magic, and clever point-of-view shifts that construct a vivid, full-picture atmosphere ahead of the epic climax. It is complex, brutal, and thoroughly hypnotic storytelling from start to finish. Hayes outperforms the biggest names in the genre, crafting an unforgettable, top-tier pirate saga.

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Blackwing by Ed McDonald

Ed McDonald drops you straight into the Misery, a grotesque, shifting wasteland where Captain Galharrow leads his rough-and-ready Blackwing mercenaries. Galharrow is a flawed, battle-worn veteran whose witty banter with his crew - like the rogueish Tnota and fierce Nenn - gives real heart to a dark tale. McDonald's first-person world-building is astonishing, effortlessly balancing malevolent god-like beings, original magic, and political intrigue. Packed with sharp twists, brutal action, and quiet reflection, this grimdark debut hits every mark. It is unpredictable, gripping, and utterly unputdownable for fans of Mark Lawrence and Scott Lynch. A brilliant fantasy start.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of Blackwing by Ed McDonald
The Malice by Peter Newman

The Malice is an exceptional fusion of post-apocalyptic sci-fi and fantasy. Stepping out of her father's silent shadow, Vesper steals the legendary sword to shield him, accidentally leading a small army straight into chaos. Newman takes a massive gamble shifting protagonists, but it pays off brilliantly. Vesper is flawed, overwhelmed, and reluctant to kill, making her journey through this grotesque, morally grey world deeply compelling. Coupled with vivid prose and a fascinating backstory that reveals the Infernals' complex motivations, Newman expands his universe with incredible depth. I only wish I had picked up this clever, thrilling sequel sooner.

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Tyrant's Throne by Sebastien de Castell

$Tyrant\'s Throne by Sebastien de Castell book cover$

Tyrant's Throne by Sebastien de Castell is a masterclass in emotionally riveting fantasy. As the devastating finale to The Greatcoats Quartet, it delivers a deeply moving story that forces you to re-evaluate your ideas about morality and change. De Castell's writing keeps getting better, crafting believable character relationships and a rich world where flaws truly matter. Reading it is an intense experience, pulling you from tears of heartbreak to pure adrenaline during the climax. Highly action-packed and masterfully written, it is easily one of the most powerful fantasy conclusions in recent memory. A brilliant, unforgettable read.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of Tyrant's Throne by Sebastien de Castell
The Ninth Rain by Jen Williams

The Ninth Rain by Jen Williams is a refreshingly unique fantasy that instantly steals your heart. Anchored by three unforgettable misfits - the sarcastic explorer Vintage, the immortal wine-loving rogue Tormalin, and the dangerous fugitive witch Noon - this tale explores what truly makes us human. Williams blends intricate world-building with a tangled conspiracy of ancient magic, alien horrors, and imminent war. The chemistry between this unlikely trio is pure joy, filled with wit and genuine warmth. It is a wildly creative, deeply emotional journey that reminds us to stay curious, embrace our flaws, and never take life too seriously.

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Vallista by Steven Brust

Vallista delivers another brilliant Dragaera adventure, proving Steven Brust remains a absolute master of voice. Following assassin Vlad Taltos into a time-bending, multidimensional puzzle house, the novel balances dark mysteries with sharp humour and witty banter from Vlad's flying reptile familiar. Bursting with rich world-building, it answers long-standing questions about gods, past lives, and the ancient Jenoine. Vlad's outsider status keeps him deeply relatable, and Brust's subversion of fantasy tropes shines through an unforgettable cast. It is a wildly entertaining high-fantasy read that satisfies long-time fans and newcomers alike. I just love spending time in this world.

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Assassin's Fate by Robin Hobb

$Assassin\'s Fate by Robin Hobb book cover$

Starting this journey twenty years ago, I never imagined how deeply Fitz and the Fool would hook me. Robin Hobb excels at crafting flawed, deeply human characters who navigate genuinely hard lives. Reconnecting with beloved allies creates a deeply rewarding second half. Hobb's exquisite prose and emotional depth ensure this final chapter delivers the exact closure long-time fans crave. It is a touching, masterfully crafted end to an extraordinary fantasy saga that ranks among the absolute best of the genre.

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The Bitter Twins by Jen Williams

The Bitter Twins is a spectacular, fast-paced sequel that brilliantly expands Jen Williams's fantasy world. Rejoining Vintage, Tor, and Noon feels like reuniting with dear friends, even as they face desperate trials. From rallying flawed, bickering war-beasts to embarking on perilous journeys, the stakes are vastly higher this time around. Williams excels at testing emotional bonds between lovers, siblings, and allies, delivering deeply human characters who drive the narrative. With high-octane action, rich lore, and heartbreaking turns, it asks tough questions about truth and connection. It is an utterly absorbing adventure that leaves you desperate for the final book.

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The Court of Broken Knives by Anna Smith Spark

The Court of Broken Knives is a stunning grimdark debut. Smith Spark pairs brutal violence with surprisingly poetic, hypnotic prose that leaves you breathless during high-stakes battle scenes. Following a mercenary crew approaching the rich city of Sorlost to spark a revolution, the narrative quickly expands into a vast, richly detailed world of strange gods, betrayals, and dragons. Its four core characters are wonderfully complex, anchored by one of the most destructive figures in modern fantasy. Despite its intricate world-building, the effort yields an incredible payout. It is dark, beautiful, and utterly compelling high fantasy.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of The Court of Broken Knives by Anna Smith Spark