The 9 Best Low Fantasy Books for Readers Who Love Mystery
Book RaiderLow fantasy books are like that slice of chocolate cake you reward yourself with after a long day at work. They're rich, they're indulgent, and they combine all your favorite ingredients - magic, suspense, and a hearty dash of mystery. And let's be honest, who doesn't appreciate a sprinkle of the fantastical on what can otherwise be a Wednesday as dry as unbuttered toast?
Plus, isn't it awesome when you're so engrossed in a book that you feel your eyes swell up with fear, your mind puzzled yet eager to solve the perplexity laid before you? The kind where you find yourself hugging a pillow as you turn the page, wondering if the werewolf did it, or if the shy librarian was secretly a sorceress all along? So kick off your shoes, park yourself on your favorite cosy spot, and let’s embark on this low fantasy thrill ride. It’s going to be tastier than that chocolate cake – even if it's triple fudge.
The Starless Sea
by Erin Morgenstern
Why The Starless Sea is on this list: If you're looking for a book that's a cross between a low fantasy and a gripping whodunit, then The Starless Sea is your perfect match. This novel, like a well-executed magic trick, blends the best of both worlds, making it the ideal companion for fans of mystery and fantasy alike.
The Starless Sea transports you into a labyrinth of secrets beneath the real world, where a vast, subterranean library filled with stories exists. Our protagonist is a graduate student named Zachary, who stumbles upon a mysterious book in the university library. When he finds a story from his own childhood in the book, that's when things get weird. His investigation of this mishap leads him to a series of doors that act as portals to that starless sea, and suddenly his dull life becomes tethered to an ageless dispute full of intrigue and danger.
What readers like: Readers gobble up Erin Morgenstern's ability to weave an intricate story where nothing is as it seems. They love the intricate plot that keeps them guessing at every twist and turn. Moreover, the rich imagery, multifaceted characters, and atmospheric settings keep readers entranced long after the last page turns. It's like solving a mystery while being on a magical adventure - a unique reading experience that fans can't get enough of.
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The Shadow of the Wind
by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
Why The Shadow of the Wind is on this list: With its gripping narrative set in a misty Barcelona, 'The Shadow of the Wind' blends low fantasy with compelling mystery, making it a perfect page-turner for lovers of both genres.
This modern classic is about a young boy named Daniel, who discovers a mysterious book buried deep in the 'Cemetery of Forgotten Books.' As he grows up to unravel the dark secrets of the book’s vanished author, he stumbles upon a story of madness, doomed love, and retribution that's stranger than fiction. 'The Shadow of the Wind' will take you on a magical journey right from the comfort of your couch.
What readers like: Readers can't seem to get enough of this book's atmospheric setting, engaging plotline, and unforgettable characters. Many express how they are drawn into the author's rich storytelling, and held hostage by the twists and turns of the mystery. Plus, the fantasy elements give an enchanting depth to the overall narrative.
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A Game of Thrones
by George R.R. Martin
Why A Game of Thrones is on this list: A Game of Thrones, the first book in the iconic series, A Song of Ice and Fire, is a perfect crossover between low fantasy and mystery. With its medieval setting and grounded magic system, it ticks all the boxes for low fantasy. But it's the mysteries that really make the book stand out. It's bursting at the seams with court intrigue, covert plots, and hidden agendas, keeping readers on their toes until the very end.
The book is set in the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos, and follows the power struggles among noble families as they vie for the Iron Throne. There are direwolves, dragons and all manner of political intrigue. Each chapter is told from the perspective of a character, giving readers a deep insight into their struggles, triumphs, and machinations.
What readers like: Readers love the well-realised world, the complex and grey characters, and the book’s tendency to break fantasy clichés. George R.R. Martin's writing is descriptive, and the story is unpredictable and full of twists and turns, which makes this book a real page-turner.
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Neverwhere
by Neil Gaiman
Why Neverwhere is on this list: Neverwhere cleverly fuses fantastical elements with a thrilling, mysterious plot, serving up a hearty stew of low fantasy and suspense that'll have you coming back for seconds… thirds.
Having a blah kind of day? Richard Mayhew can relate. That is, until he stops to help a bleeding girl on the pavement and poof! he tumbles headfirst into a shadowy, subterranean London, full of forgotten people and impossible beasts. Lowlier than second class, he’s kinda just...gone. All he has is this peculiar, perilous city and the enigmatic Lady Door, who he vows to help on her quest for answers. Intrigue, malaise, and subway monsters—Neverwhere is definitely not your typical commute.
What readers like: If you love unsubtle British wit, eerie underworlds, and characters bizarre enough to make you feel like you’re the one who bumped your head, this one’s for you. It’s got just enough heart to make you care, and just enough grit to make you count your blessings—like being visible, for starters. Sounds like your cup of tea? Give Neverwhere a whirl.
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Catherine House
by Elisabeth Thomas
Why Catherine House is on this list: Contrary to popular belief, magic isn't always the answer, and Catherine House is evidence of that. If you're someone searching for a low fantasy novel with a side of mystery, you've hit a goldmine here.
Catherine House is a unique college with peculiar methods of education, mysterious customs, and highly competitive admissions. Our protagonist, Ines, embarks on a three-year journey within this surreal institution where she is swept up in a dark, twisted narrative that would make any mystery lover's heart pound faster. Factor in the eerie environment and the strange occurrences, and you've got a recipe for a spellbinding tale.
What readers like: Readers have applauded Thomas for beautifully merging the elements of mystery and low fantasy. They've also expressed appreciation for the atmospheric setting, multi-layered plot, and the well-developed, realistic characters. So, if you enjoy sinking into a world with tempting enigmas and a palpable sense of dark undercurrent - minus fire-breathing dragons or spell-casting wizards - then this book will certainly meet your expectations.
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A Darker Shade of Magic
by V.E. Schwab
Why A Darker Shade of Magic is on this list: It's got the eerie mystique of low fantasy and a twisting, turning plot that will satisfy the cravings of any mystery junkie.
Welcome to a parallel universe version of London known as 'Red London', where magic is revered, or 'White London', where people would kill to get their hands on it. But there's also a 'Black London'. Imagine the creepy uncle at a family gathering - that's Black London. Our main dude, Kell, is a magician with the rare ability to travel between these different versions of London, smuggling magical artifacts on the side. Things heat up when forbidden, dangerous magic comes into play.
What readers like: Readers go nuts for the intriguing plot and the intricate world building, Schwab doesn't just give you a city, she gives whole universes! If you like books where you don't just read about the world but you pretty much pack your bags and move there, get comfortable cause you're settling into the Darker Shade world. And let's not forget the characters. They're so real, you might just find yourself looking out the window, hoping to spot Kell in his magical coat.
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Every Heart a Doorway
by Seanan McGuire
Why Every Heart a Doorway is on this list: It's a noteworthy blend of low fantasy, where the magic happens in the real-world, with mystery elements so strong that you might feel like you're solving a case yourself.
This book throws you into Eleanor West’s Home for Wayward Children, a particular school that serves those who've returned from weird and wonderful magical lands. Picture Alice returning from Wonderland, but she's having a hard time adjusting back to simply being 'Alice'. The main mysterious moment rolls in when a murder happens within the school. Now, they not only need to cope with their otherworldly experiences, but also solve a murder case.
What readers like: Readers often love the book's unique concept, quirky characters, and the blend of reality with an inch of magical elements. It’s the perfect twist on low fantasy sprinkled with a charming Nancy Drew-esque murder mystery, all wrapped up in Seanan’s beautifully eerie writing style.
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Uprooted
by Naomi Novik
Why Uprooted is on this list: Uprooted is like a graceful dance between low fantasy and mystery. The subtle undertones of fantasy are intertwined with a complex plot that keeps you guessing till the end.
Uprooted is the riveting tale of a simple village girl named Agnieszka who finds herself tangled in a world of magic and dangerous court politics after she is chosen to serve the terrifying wizard known as the Dragon. It's a book stuffed full of enchantment, dark forests, twisted magic and peril, all wrapped up in a mystery as thick as the woodland that imprisons Agnieszka's village.
What readers like: Readers tend to fall in love with Novik's beautifully constructed world and unrelenting plot twists. Agnieszka is a strong, charismatic, and relatable lead whose journey keeps you on the edge of your seat. Plus, there's a brilliantly detailed magic system that's as fascinating as the mystery itself. If you like your fantasy with a heavy garnish of suspense and intrigue, this book should definitely be on your 'to-read' pile.
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Assassin's Apprentice
by Robin Hobb
Why Assassin's Apprentice is on this list: This book cunningly weaves low fantasy with elements of mystery, echoing the veil of secrecy surrounding its main character. It keeps the magic to a low while tossing up constant surprises, so it's right up the alley for fans of mystery with a hint of the fantastical.
Imagine being a young boy, merrily going through life, only to learn you're an illegitimate royal offspring with an assassin for a mentor. Now that's what you call a plot twist! 'Assassin's Apprentice' revolves around Fitz, as he treads on a path fraught with danger, deception and royal intrigue, all while learning the 'subtle' art of assassination and coming to terms with his complex heritage.
What readers like: Readers love how Robin Hobb brings the characters, particularly Fitz, alive with her vivid, emotional writing. They have also praised the intricate plot, and the delightfully slow unveiling of secrets, culminating in a grand climax. All the mystery-solving very much resonates with Sherlock Holmes enthusiasts, except here, instead of a monocle and a deerstalker hat, Fitz has a blade or two up his sleeve.
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