A Comprehensive Guide to Epic Fantasy Novels: What I've Read and Loved

Welcome to a journey into the enchanting world of epic fantasy novels. As an SEO expert, I have compiled a list of some of the most cherished and beloved fantasy series that I have read, with in-depth reviews and personal reflections on what made them stand out.

What I Liked

Throne of Glass - Sarah J. Maas

My all-time favorite YA fantasy novel, Throne of Glass, turned from the tale of an awesome teenage assassin dealing with grief and trying to win a competition, to a story about a long-lost queen’s Valg Fae and magic-riddled path to reclaim her throne. What sets this series apart is the complexity of its characters, with deep connections that are revealed as the story progresses, and major characters appearing from the beginning to the end, despite tragic losses. The main protagonist, Manon Blackwood, undergoes significant character development and growth, making her journey both inspiring and captivating.

Folk of the Air - Holly Black

This novel stands out due to its focus on faeries rather than the more whimsical versions often depicted, with a story filled with court intrigue, family drama, and intense love-hate relationships. The main character, Jude, is far from the typical good protagonist; she is bloodthirsty and ruthless in her quest for power, yet incredibly strong. This duality makes her character deeply compelling, and her journey through survival and love alongside family drama is interspersed with heartwarming and heartbreaking moments.

Six of Crows - Leigh Bardugo

I was initially skeptical about this book, but I was thoroughly enchanted after the first few pages. The diversity of the main characters, with over half being LGBTQ and from different ethnic backgrounds, compliments the rich and suspenseful plot. The interactions between the characters, despite their varying personalities, are?both funny and dark, creating a compelling narrative. Additionally, the plot is set in a universe beyond the original series, allowing readers to trace connections and maintain suspense. The continuous storytelling and the anticipation of potential crossovers are why this book stands out.

The Young Elites - Marie Lu

This includes characters undergoing significant character development, particularly Adelina Amiano, who struggles with her powers and an inevitable descent into darkness. The narrative balances epic romance with a complex plot, allowing Adelina's redemption to be centered on her sister rather than her love interests. The entire saga is a triumph of character growth and emotional depth, despite its sad conclusion.

What I Didn’t Like

Fallen Academy - Leia Stone

This book unfortunately fell short of expectations, despite the intriguing premise. The protagonist Brielle was overly whiny and the constant praise for her being a Mary Sue character became tiresome. The focus on her relationships and the constant internal monologues made the narrative less engaging, and the lack of substantial plot development detracted from the overall experience.

A Court of Thorns and Roses - Sarah J. Maas

Despite being a good book, I couldn’t appreciate A Court of Thorns and Roses as much as I hoped. The abrupt character changes, particularly the transformation of the main character into a more sexual entity, and the explicit content in the second book were too much. Additionally, the rapid deterioration of a love interest into a cheating, jealous monster was unsatisfactory.

Red Queen - Victoria Aveyard

I acknowledge that Red Queen is a well-crafted book, but I found myself struggling with some character interactions and plot points. The forced breaks and unrealistic political systems, such as communism in Norta, broke the immersion for me. Nevertheless, the book remains a fantastic read with strong characters and an engaging narrative.

Conclusion

While there are certain books that I enjoyed to no end, others unfortunately fell short. The experiences shared here reflect my personal preferences and journey through the world of epic fantasy. Whether you are a fan of young adult fiction, complex characters, or richly plotted narratives, there is something for everyone in the world of fantasy novels.