Best Fantasy Books of 2020

Below you will find a list of the fantasy books published in 2020 that we enjoyed most. Click on a book title to read the full review.

The Unspoken Name by A. K. Larkwood

A.K. Larkwood's 'The Unspoken Name' is a refreshing departure from tired tropes, blending high fantasy with a cosmic, portal-jumping scope. The story follows Csorwe, an orc-like protagonist destined to be a sacrificial bride, who chooses instead to run away with a manipulative wizard. Larkwood's world-building is breathtaking, featuring dying worlds linked by a mysterious 'Maze'. The magic feels ancient and heavy, yet the character dynamics are sharp and modern. It is a tale of agency and the struggle to define oneself outside of destiny. For any epic fantasy fan, it provides a gritty, queer, and wildly imaginative ride.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of The Unspoken Name by A. K. Larkwood
The Once and Future Witches by Alix E Harrow

Alix E. Harrow's The Once and Future Witches is a breathtaking tapestry of folklore and feminism. Set in a reimagined 1893, it follows the three Eastwood sisters as they fight to restore the lost power of witchcraft to a world that has suppressed it. Harrow's prose is lyrical and evocative, weaving together nursery rhymes and "women's ways" to create a magic system that feels grounded in history and hearth. It is a stirring tale of sisterhood and suffrage, reminding us that magic is not just about spells, but about the will to demand change. Truly a modern classic.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of The Once and Future Witches by Alix E Harrow
Age of Empyre by Michael J. Sullivan

Michael J. Sullivan brings his sprawling Legends of the First Empire series to a triumphant conclusion in Age of Empyre. As a high fantasy enthusiast, I found the resolution of the war between humans and Fhrey deeply satisfying. Sullivan excels at subverting traditional tropes; what began as a simple "gods versus mortals" conflict evolves into a complex meditation on legacy, myth-making, and sacrifice. The emotional stakes are palpable as beloved characters face their final reckonings. The world-building remains top-tier, seamlessly tying back to the Riyria lore while maintaining its own distinct, prehistoric identity. It is a masterful finale.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of Age of Empyre by Michael J. Sullivan
Battle Ground by Jim Butcher

Battle Ground is an adrenaline-fuelled masterclass in urban fantasy, delivering the explosive climax that the Dresden Files has built toward for years. Jim Butcher transforms Chicago into a harrowing supernatural war zone, pitting Harry Dresden against an ancient Titan in a conflict of staggering scale. The pacing is relentless, yet Butcher never loses sight of the emotional stakes. Characters we have loved for decades face genuine peril, and the consequences of this battle permanently alter the series' landscape. It is a gritty, heart-wrenching, and cinematic achievement that proves why Dresden remains the gold standard of the genre.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of Battle Ground by Jim Butcher
The Trouble with Peace by Joe Abercrombie

Joe Abercrombie cements his status as the master of "grimdark" fiction with The Trouble with Peace. This sequel to A Little Hatred excels by focusing on the messy, fragile aftermath of revolution. Abercrombie's character work is peerless; he breathes life into figures like Savine dan Glokta and Leo dan Brock, making their ambitions and failures feel painfully human. The narrative is a masterclass in tension, balancing sharp political manoeuvring with visceral, gritty action. It is a cynical yet hilarious exploration of how winning a war is often easier than maintaining the peace. Brutal, witty, and utterly unmissable.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of The Trouble with Peace by Joe Abercrombie
Piranesi by Susanna Clarke

Susanna Clarke's Piranesi is a hauntingly beautiful meditation on solitude and the resilience of the human spirit. The story unfolds within the House, an infinite labyrinth of flooded halls and celestial statues, rendered with such precision that it feels like a fever dream made tangible. Through the guileless, appreciative eyes of the protagonist, Clarke explores the profound relationship between a person and their environment. The prose is crystalline and elegant, stripping away the dense footnotes of her previous work to reveal a narrative that is both surreal and deeply moving. It is a rare, luminous achievement in contemporary fantasy.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of Piranesi by Susanna Clarke
The Girl and the Stars by Mark Lawrence

Mark Lawrence's The Girl and the Stars is a masterclass in atmospheric world-building. Set on the frozen world of Abeth, it follows Yaz, a girl cast into a pit beneath the ice. The setting is claustrophobic yet vast, blending ancient technology with brutal survival. Lawrence's prose is sharp and evocative, perfectly capturing the desperation of the Ice Tribes. Yaz is a compelling protagonist whose journey from a discard to a leader feels earned and intense. The novel expands the lore of his previous works while remaining accessible, offering a dark, wintry epic that explores the limits of human resilience.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of The Girl and the Stars by Mark Lawrence
A Time of Courage by John Gwynne

A Time of Courage serves as a masterclass in epic fantasy, delivering a high-stakes conclusion to John Gwynne's Of Blood and Bone trilogy. The novel shines through its visceral, shield-wall combat and a relentless pace that keeps the stakes feeling immediate. Gwynne excels at crafting characters who embody "the bright and the brave," making their sacrifices feel earned and deeply personal.The narrative masterfully balances grim, gritty realism with themes of hope, loyalty, and the classic struggle against overwhelming ancient evils. For fans of the genre, the rich world-building of the Banished Lands provides a perfect backdrop for a story that is as much about heart and humanity as it is about sweeping battles and mythical creatures. It is an essential read for anyone seeking a finale that is both emotionally resonant and action-packed.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of A Time of Courage by John Gwynne
Along the Razor's Edge by Rob J Hayes

$Along the Razor\'s Edge by Rob J Hayes book cover$

Along the Razor's Edge is a masterclass in grimdark fantasy, centering on Eskara Helsig, a defeated war mage stripped of her power and cast into a subterranean prison. Rob J. Hayes excels at crafting a protagonist who is unapologetically jagged, driven by a raw, desperate ambition to reclaim her status. The world-building is visceral, where "Sourcery" feels like a dangerous, physical burden rather than a whimsical gift. The narrative moves at a breakneck pace, blending claustrophobic tension with explosive action, ensuring that every moral compromise Eskara makes feels earned, harrowing, and entirely necessary for her survival.

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The House in the Cerulean Sea by T. J. Klune

The House in the Cerulean Sea is a masterclass in 'found family', offering a gentle, whimsical escape from the mundane. It follows Linus Baker, a rigid caseworker who discovers that life is not meant to be governed solely by rules and regulations. T. J. Klune's prose is exceptionally warm, crafting a world where 'monsters' are merely children seeking love and acceptance.The novel excels because it balances quirkiness with profound emotional depth. It explores themes of prejudice and belonging through a lens of kindness, making it a soothing balm for any reader. It is a vibrant, heart-warming celebration of being different.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of The House in the Cerulean Sea by T. J. Klune
We Ride the Storm by Devin Madson

Devin Madson's 'We Ride the Storm' is a masterclass in grimdark fantasy, stripping away the polish of traditional heroics to reveal a gritty, blood-soaked world. The narrative thrives on its three distinct points of view: an exiled warrior, a cynical assassin, and a princess navigating a crumbling empire. Each voice is sharp and authentic, driving a plot that feels both epic in scale and intimate in its emotional stakes. The world-building is seamless, avoiding heavy exposition in favour of lived-in cultural tension and complex politics. It is a story about the messy reality of war and the difficult choices people make to survive. For anyone seeking a fast-paced, uncompromising tale where no character is safe and the moral grey areas are vast, this novel is an essential addition to the genre. It is fierce, imaginative, and utterly relentless from the first page.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of We Ride the Storm by Devin Madson
The Obsidian Tower by Melissa Caruso

Melissa Caruso's The Obsidian Tower is a masterclass in high-stakes fantasy world-building. The story follows Ryx, a protagonist burdened by a lethal magical touch that forces her to remain isolated. Caruso excels at creating a tense atmosphere within the Black Gate, where ancient secrets and political intrigue collide. The magic system is innovative and deeply tied to the characters' identities, making every choice feel heavy with consequence. With its diverse cast, witty dialogue, and a mystery that keeps you guessing, the novel perfectly balances personal stakes with epic consequences. It is a compelling start to a brilliant series.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of The Obsidian Tower by Melissa Caruso
Age of Death by Michael J. Sullivan

Michael J. Sullivan's Age of Death is a masterclass in high-stakes fantasy, deftly weaving emotional resonance with intricate world-building. As the fourth instalment in the Legends of the First Empire series, it pushes the heroes across the threshold of the afterlife. This transition transforms the narrative into a profound exploration of myth and sacrifice. Sullivan's strength lies in his character work; you feel every ounce of their desperation and hope. The prose is accessible yet evocative, ensuring the complex lore never overshadows the human heart of the story. It is a gripping, essential journey for any true genre enthusiast.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of Age of Death by Michael J. Sullivan
Forged by Benedict Jacka

Forged by Benedict Jacka is a brilliant piece of urban fantasy because it delivers high stakes and incredible pacing. Alex Verus is not a hero who wins by being the strongest; he wins because he is smarter and more prepared than his enemies. In this book, the tension reaches a breaking point. The world of the Mages feels dangerous and real, with politics that are as sharp as any blade. Watching Alex finally take the fight to those who bullied him is so satisfying. The magic system remains logical and clever, making every victory feel earned and intense.

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Temple of Sand by Barbara Kloss

If you love fantasy books, you must read Temple of Sand. It is the second book in the Gods of Men series and it is so exciting! The magic is very dark and interesting. Saba is a great character because she is strong but she also has many feelings and struggles. The world Barbara Kloss makes is beautiful but dangerous, with lots of sand and secrets. The romance between the characters feels very real and it makes your heart beat fast. You cannot stop reading because the plot has many surprises. It is a perfect adventure for everyone.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of Temple of Sand by Barbara Kloss
Blight Marked by Josh Erikson

If you love stories where magic is messy and gods are real, Blight Marked is a pure delight. This sequel takes Gabe's journey as a con artist to a whole new level of chaos. Erikson writes with such high energy and wit that you cannot put it down. The way he blends urban fantasy with ancient myths feels fresh and very clever. You really feel the stakes getting higher as the shadows close in. The characters feel like real people making tough choices. It is a brilliant, fast-paced ride that makes you want to see what happens next.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of Blight Marked by Josh Erikson
Shorefall by Robert Jackson Bennett

Shorefall is absolute magic. Robert Jackson Bennett makes world building feel so real with 'scriving' - it's like coding but for physical objects. In this sequel, the stakes get much higher as an ancient god returns to the city of Founders. The tension is thick because Sancia and her crew are desperate to stop total destruction. It's dark, fast, and very clever. You see how power ruins people, but the friendship between the main characters gives it heart. If you love epic fantasy with unique systems and big battles, this book is a masterpiece you cannot miss.

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The Lessons Never Learned by Rob J. Hayes

This book is absolute gold for anyone who loves dark fantasy. The story is part of the First Earth series and it is just so gritty and real. You follow characters like Drake and Keira, and they are not heroes in shining armour - they are broken and making big mistakes. That is what makes it great! The world is dangerous and the magic feels very heavy. Hayes writes action that is fast but also very emotional. It is a tale about how people do not always change, even when they should. If you like grimdark, you must read this one.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of The Lessons Never Learned by Rob J. Hayes
Kings of Heaven by Richard Nell

If you love fantasy, Richard Nell's Kings of Heaven is a book you simply cannot pass up. It serves as a spectacular, heavy-hitting conclusion to the Ash and Sand trilogy, and it genuinely delivers on every front. What makes it so gripping is how Nell handles his characters, especially Ruka and Kale. Ruka is easily one of the most unique protagonists in modern fantasy - a brilliant, terrifying genius whose choices constantly force you to question your own morals. The world-building is gritty and atmospheric, the political manoeuvring is incredibly sharp, and the emotional payoffs feel entirely earned. It is a brilliant, dark triumph.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of Kings of Heaven by Richard Nell
The Midnight Lie by Marie Rutkoski

If you are looking for a fantasy that completely sweeps you away, Marie Rutkoski's The Midnight Lie is an absolute must-read. Set in a walled city where the poor are forced to pay taxes with their senses, the world-building feels incredibly distinct and beautifully cruel. The story follows Nirrim, and her transformation from a timid, compliant girl into someone questioning everything is wonderful to watch. When she meets the charming, roguish traveller Sid, the chemistry is brilliant. It is a lush, poetic, and deeply romantic queer fantasy that masterfully handles themes of class, lies, and freedom.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of The Midnight Lie by Marie Rutkoski
The Shadow King by Alec Hutson

Alec Hutson's The Shadow King is a masterclass in epic fantasy, breathing fresh life into classic genre tropes. The novel instantly hooks you with its rich, immersive world-building and a magic system that feels both ancient and inventive. Hutson excels at character development; the protagonists are deeply flawed, relatable, and forced to make agonising choices as a forgotten darkness reawakens. The pacing is relentless, balancing intricate political intrigue with high-stakes, cinematic battles. It is a gripping, atmospheric tale of power and survival that keeps you turning pages long into the night, desperate to see how the tapestry unfolds.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of The Shadow King by Alec Hutson
The Bard's Blade by Brian D Anderson

$The Bard\'s Blade by Brian D Anderson book cover$

The Bard's Blade breathes fresh life into classic fantasy tropes. Lem's journey from a carefree musician to a desperate warrior fleeing a hidden tragedy is wonderfully grounded. Brian D. Anderson masterfully balances an intimate, character-driven narrative with hints of a sprawling, ominous world order. The magic system feels organic, and the pacing keeps you turning pages late into the night. It is a brilliant opening act that respects its roots while carving out its own distinct, compelling path. If you love deep world-building and high stakes, this story will strike a chord.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of The Bard\'s Blade by Brian D Anderson
Peace Talks by Jim Butcher

Jim Butcher delivers pure, high-octane urban fantasy in Peace Talks, the sixteenth instalment of the Dresden Files. As supernatural factions gather in Chicago to negotiate a fragile truce, wizard investigator Harry Dresden is thrust into the centre of a ticking political time bomb. The stakes have never been higher, testing Harry's loyalties to his family and the White Council. Butcher excels at balancing witty, cynical humour with intense, fast-paced magical action and deep emotional weight. It is a thrilling, masterfully paced ride that rewards long-term fans while showcasing Butcher at the absolute top of his urban fantasy game.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of Peace Talks by Jim Butcher
Hollow Kingdom by Kira Jane Buxton

Hollow Kingdom is a riotous, feathered masterpiece that proves the end of the world is better viewed through the eyes of a foul-mouthed crow. S.T., our domesticated avian hero, is a delight. His quest to save his 'Moany Bone' human and the domestic animals of Seattle is both hilarious and unexpectedly moving. Kira Jane Buxton nails the balance between gross-out zombie humour and a profound love for the natural world. It is a refreshing spin on the apocalypse, trading grit for wit and wings. If you love Pratchett's whimsy mixed with a dash of gore, this is a must-read adventure.

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From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout

"From Blood and Ash" is a visceral, pulse-pounding entry into the romantasy canon that prioritizes carnal tension and high-stakes world-building. Jennifer L. Armentrout crafts a tale centered on Poppy, a Maiden tethered by duty, whose awakening is as much about bodily autonomy as it is about forbidden passion. The chemistry between Poppy and the golden-eyed Hawke is electric, built on a foundation of witty banter and mutual defiance. While the lore is dense - replete with gods, vampires, and shifting allegiances - it serves as a lush backdrop for a romance that feels both inevitable and dangerous. It is addictive, unapologetic escapism.

Buy on Amazon | Read our full review of From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout