The 9 Top Low Fantasy Novels with Unconventional Storytelling

Spinning Silver

Why Spinning Silver is on this list: This book reinvents the classic tale of Rumpelstiltskin with a twist. With its plot focused on magic, characters weaving silver out of thin air and an intriguing setting that feels fresh yet grounded in reality, this low fantasy novel paints an unconventional countenance of storytelling. It's the literary equivalent of a magician pulling a rabbit out a hat. You didn't see it coming, but're hooked.

What readers like: Readers absolutely appreciate the way Naomi Novik has successfully reimagined a children’s fable into a gripping, adult fantasy story. They love the strong, relatable female protagonists and the frost-bitten atmosphere that drenches every page. Not to mention the interesting ethics of magic use and economical insights tossed into this boiling pot of a story. It’s a delicious stew, one that readers find themselves slurping heartily and asking for seconds.

City of Stairs

Why City of Stairs is on this list:

Think spies and goddesses, steel and shadow. This tale sets its stage on Bulikov, a city where once divine powers ruled, now left stair-stepped by enigmatic miracles and powerful mysteries. Follow Shara Thivani, a spy tasked with soling the murder of a controversial historian. Throw in old secrets, long forgotten Gods, and twisted power dynamics, and you've got yourself the cocktail of intrigue that is City of Stairs.

What readers like: Readers rave about Benett’s nuanced characters that refuse to be confined to black and white labels. They love the cryptic cityscape, the sneaky hints of mythology. Most of all, they love the way the plot keeps them guessing. It's the kind of book that makes you want to ditch your day job and sign up for spy school. But no worries, reading about it in a cozy chair works just as well.

Jonathan Strange And Mr. Norrell

Why Jonathan Strange And Mr. Norrell is on this list: Clarke's debut novel definitely runs counter to the typical realms of dwarves and fairies. Instead, her low fantasy story, set in an alternative 19th Century England, is a wonderful blend of magic, politics, and war. This unconventional storytelling, with a meticulous level of detail, is what we love to see in this genre.

The book revolves around the only two practicing magicians left in England, Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell. As they attempt to ply their trade amidst a skeptical society, the story takes us through a series of strange and sometimes comic happenings. Think scholarly squabbles, societal October surprises, and the unwelcome return of an ancient evil. If you've ever wondered what a magical cold war might look like, this book is for you.

What readers like: Readers cherish the book's dense yet captivating prose and its keen attention to detail. Correspondingly, Clarke's ability to create a world that is rich and tangible is definitely something to be appreciated. The book combines magic, history, and a touch of dark humor, making it an unforgettable reading experience. Plus, hey, who doesn't love a good squabble between fusty old wizards in waistcoats?

Deathless

Why Deathless is on this list: It's not everyday you come across a novel where Russian folklore meets the rise and fall of the Soviet Union. Valente beautifully blends the real with the unreal, making 'Deathless' a standout in the realm of low fantasy novels. In addition to its unique setting and plot, Valente's storytelling style deviates from the norm and dares to tell a tale that is deeply rooted in reality with a fantastical twist.

'Deathless' revolves around the character of Marya Morevna, a young woman who falls in love with Koschei the Deathless, a character infamous in Russian folklore. Their dramatic, tumultuous love story unfolds against the backdrop of the politically charged twentieth century Russia. The story is unpredictable and fascinating, challenging the reader's expectations at every turn.Trust us, it’s not your usual fairytale.

What readers like: Readers have applauded Deathless for its lyrical, poetic prose, mesmerizing storytelling style and unique blend of history and fantasy. Its dark humor, richly drawn characters and the thoughtful exploration of the human condition have enthralled the fans. If you're looking for a meaty read that is fantastical and yet deeply grounded in human emotions and realities, this book is for you. But, be warned, the book may challenge your traditional narrative expectations, in a good and exciting way, of course.

The Library at Mount Char

Why The Library at Mount Char is on this list: This novel slips nicely into the low fantasy genre by blending our real world with some serious weirdness that, even if you tried, you couldn't dream up. It's also got some creative storytelling techniques that breaks away from the straight line tales we're all used to.

Think of a library. It's quiet, it's dusty, and you're probably not allowed to bring in food, right? Well, The Library at Mount Char is all about shattering expectations. The orphaned Carolyn and her 'siblings' are taken in by a mysterious, godlike father figure. The 'library?' It's a metaphysical wonderland with doors leading to different dimensions and realities, hardly what you'd find in your normal branch. Carolyn, trained in languages, ends up embroiled in a power struggle that could affect the whole universe. And all she really wanted was to check out some books without late fees.

What readers like: The readers of this novel enjoy the rules and regulations of typical fantasy being thrown out the window. They appreciate Carolyn's character development and the bizarre, yet intriguing plot. Quite a few also enjoyed the book's humor, dark as it occasionally was. They've noted that depending on conventional storytelling 'rules' after this, might just feel like downgrading.

The First Law Trilogy

Why The First Law Trilogy is on this list: The First Law Trilogy takes the conventional expectations of low fantasy and flips them on their head. Instead of noble elves and flawless heroes, we get morally complex characters and a plot that's as unpredictable as your last Zoom party.

This trilogy comprises of three books, 'The Blade Itself', 'Before They Are Hanged' and 'Last Argument of Kings'. The narrative revolves around diverse characters including a crippled torturer, a narcissistic nobleman, a barbarian with anger issues and a feisty woman warrior, who are loaded with flaws and moral ambiguities. They negotiate their way through wars, political intrigue and ancient magic, all the while coping with their personal demons.

What readers like: Readers are enamored with Abercrombie's dark humor, gritty realism, and his knack for defying tropes. This trilogy is revered for its detailed character development, unpredictable plot twists and grim, yet engrossing world. If you're bored of predictable storylines and monochromatic characters, grab a cup of hot chocolate and sink into the murky depths of this maverick fantasy tale.

The Bear and the Nightingale

Why The Bear and the Nightingale is on this list: This is not your typical low fantasy fairytale. Think of it as if the Brothers Grimm decided to add some Russian folklore, a splash of gloomy winter and a dash of female empowerment. The way Katherine Arden weaves traditional elements with an unconventional plot will grab you tight and not let go. And that's a good thing.

The story is set in a little village tucked deep within the forests of Russia. Our heroine, Vasilisa, has the strange ability to communicate with mythical beings from old Russian lore. Life is chilly but peaceful until her father remarries a woman from the city. Everything turns upside down, especially when their new stepmother forces them to abandon their old traditions, pitting them against malevolent spirits. Now it's up to Vasilisa to fight for her family's survival against supernatural and all too human threats.

What readers like: Readers love the book's slow but riveting build-up, where every chapter pulls you deeper into Vasilisa's world of Russian mythology and magic. They adore our heroine Vasilisa for her rebellious spirit, and the way she fights convention to protect her loved ones. It's a book full of cold nights, warm hearts and thrilling adventure. If you want to step out of your comfort zone and try a unique brand of fantasy tinged with ancient folklore, settle in with a hot cup of tea and this book.

Neverwhere

Why Neverwhere is on this list: Neverwhere hits the low fantasy criteria through its eerie, underground rendition of London. For unconventional storytelling, it utilizes an Average Joe as the hero amidst the parallel, shadowy world's intricacies.

The book kicks off with Richard Mayhew, a good-hearted but unexceptional man living a mundane life in London. Until, that is, he rescues a wounded girl named Door on a random street. This seemingly random act of kindness spirals him into 'London Below,' a parallel city beneath the glam and fashion - a grungy, dangerous, but a magical place filled with saints, monsters, and people from different time eras who disappeared from 'London Above.' He loses his 'existence' in his own world, and the only way to earn it back is to aid Door on her quest.

What readers like: Readers rave about Gaiman's engrossing storytelling that blends the humdrum everyday life with the shadowy world beneath. The author’s talent for dark, atmospheric world-building and the effortless mix of horror, history, and humor makes this dark adventure resonate with readers. And let's not forget the unhinged cast of characters – they're not just fun to be around but also have depth and complexity.

Gideon the Ninth

Why Gideon the Ninth is on this list: If you are a fan of low fantasy and are bored with the traditional storytelling methods, Gideon the Ninth will be a refreshing gust of wonderful weirdness. Tamsyn Muir mixes magic and science in a way you surely have not come across before.

In a universe where the emperor needs necromancers, Gideon is a swordswoman bound to serve the Ninth necromancer, Harrowhark Nonagesimus. When they're invited by the emperor, who needs necromancers to figure out immortality, things get really interesting. The book is about their journey of survival and figuring out friendships in the most unusual ways.

What readers like: Readers are drawn to its inventive narrative style that fuses familiar elements in unimaginable ways. The sarcastic and humorous undertones, the unique mix of magic, the science fiction vibe, and strong, charming characters that walk off the page make it a truly unexpected ride. This isn't your usual fantasy tome - but that's exactly what makes it so enchanting.