The 9 Best Low Fantasy Novels to Ignite Your Passion for Reading
Book RaiderIn a world overfilled with magic-wielding elves, fire-breathing dragons, and beings that defy the laws of physics more often than celebrity diet fads, low fantasy novels can be a breath of fresh air. These are the tales steeped in reality, yet carrying a kernel of enchantment that kindle our curiosity and lure us into their world. They're like uncanny uncle at family reunions, strutting in with his worn-out leather jacket and spinning stories that, to anyone else, would belong in the twilight zone, but to you, hold a captivating charm that's hard to resist.
Low fantasy novels serve a delightful cocktail of subtle magic and stark realism, a genre cocktail best enjoyed with comfy pajamas and your choice of caffeinated beverage of the day. It's fantasy doused with a shot of pragmatism, based on worlds that are distant relatives of our reality, not the alien, multi-headed monstrosities of high fantasy. These are the tales that ignite a unique passion for reading, using a sparkler rather than a flamethrower. Let's dive in, shall we?
A Game of Thrones
by George R.R. Martin
Why A Game of Thrones is on this list: Being the first book in A Song of Ice and Fire series, A Game of Thrones bears all the captivating markers of low fantasy: a realistic world filled with human drama, political intrigue, and just enough mystique to keep you flipping pages.
When you step into Game of Thrones world, you step into a version of medieval Europe with a handful of extra seasons, houses, and occasional bursts of magic. Ruling seven kingdoms under an uncomfortable Iron Throne, it's a high-stakes game that reveals our heroes, villains, and a lot in between. Just when you think you've figured it out, the game changes.
What readers like: Readers enjoy the intricate web of plotlines that coalesce in magnificent twists and turns. The rich, complex characters and their development through hardship and victory, is an exploration of the human condition in prose. Another enticing factor is Martin's no-bars-held approach. Your favorite character might not be safe, which adds an edge of thrill to every page turn.
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The Name of The Wind
by Patrick Rothfuss
Why The Name of The Wind is on this list: The Name of The Wind perfectly fits into our list of low fantasy novels thanks to its incredibly grounded and humanizing portrayal of magic. Rather than focusing on grandiose, over-the-top fantasy elements, it weaves a detailed tale of a man living within a world where magic is as ordinary as cooking an egg for breakfast.
Intricately plotted, The Name of The Wind is a story about Kvothe, a man who was once an orphan living on the hard streets, and is now a wizard of sorts. Through his interview with a historian, we listen to Kvothe's tales of survival, his struggles, and his rise to power. Whether he's charming his way into the University or challenging rivals to public duels, his adventures are presented as realistically as can be, in a world where magic exists.
What readers like: Readers love the well-layered protagonist of Kvothe, finding him charming, witty, and relatable despite his magical abilities. They appreciate Rothfuss' ability to write complex characters, with Kvothe being far from a 'perfect hero.' The immersive world-building and incredible detail also makes you feel like you're walking the streets with Kvothe, sipping at tavern ales and squinting against the harsh winter wind. Fans also admire the system of magic used, which is unconventional in its intricate rules and tied inextricably with the realm of science.
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The Blade Itself
by Joe Abercrombie
Why The Blade Itself is on this list: The Blade Itself takes low fantasy to the max, sticking magic to the side and getting down-and-dirty with gritty political intrigue, tough decisions, and even tougher characters. It's a perfect pick to stoke your appetite for books.
Imagine stumbling upon a handsome-but-tortured warrior, a dashing and slightly narcissistic nobleman, and a crippled, bitter torturer. Here they are, the low fantasy's three musketeers. Set in a war-torn world, they find themselves entangled in power games, dark histories, and unexpected alliances. And the best part? No elves or dragons in sight. Just people trying to make the best of a bad hand.
What readers like: Readers love the book's deeper exploration of characters, with our gallery of crooked heroes landing their charm through every page. The witty exchanges and rough-and-tumble action scenes often turn the pages themselves. And of course, the realistic grimness of the world keeps them intrigued. It's like watching 'Game of Thrones' but without magic and a lot more bruises.
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The Fifth Season
by N.K. Jemisin
Why The Fifth Season is on this list: The Fifth Season is a classic example of low fantasy - it peels away the grandeur and spectacle of high fantasy, grounding itself in familiar realities with a fantastical twist. The magical elements are seamlessly integrated into the society, making them as common as everyday chores.
The Fifth Season takes us into the world of The Stillness: a continent plagued by catastrophic climate shifts. Our heroine, Essun, comes home to find her son murdered and daughter missing. Her quest to find her daughter sets the stage for a gritty, intense survival story, brimming with complex characters and a profoundly realized world. It's a book where magic courses through not just in visible explosions of power, but in the muted hum of daily existence.
What readers like: Readers have fallen head-over-heels for Jemisin’s masterful storytelling, realistic characters, and unique world-building. They appreciate the dark, compelling narrative that doesn't shy away from difficult topics, and find the book refreshingly feminist in its viewpoints. Readers also enjoyed the way The Fifth Season combined fantasy, mystery, and a dash of science fiction to create an utterly unique reading experience.
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The Lies of Locke Lamora
by Scott Lynch
Why The Lies of Locke Lamora is on this list: Who doesn't love a good heist every now and then? Especially if it's taking place in a richly described world that's simply bursting with relatable, low-key magic. This book embraces the pure essence of low-fantasy; it’s grounded in the real, but spiced with subtle hues of the magical.
Set in an imaginatively developed city rich with character, The Lies of Locke Lamora follows the life of a clever, and somewhat haphazard thief and con artist, Locke Lamora. With his fingers in countless schemes and his skills of manipulation, he manages to keep you guessing. Each page turns to his unique brand of mischief, making you laugh, gasp, and bite your nails at the same time.
What readers like: Readers love this book for its wickedly smart plot and the raw authenticity of its protagonist. Locke isn’t your typical hero – he has his flaws, and that’s exactly what makes him so endearing. The vivid, detailed world-building, and surprise plot twists are also quite a hit with the fans. Basically, if you're looking for a book that's entertaining, full of witty banter and keeps you on the edge of your seat, this one's for you.
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The Black Prism
by Brent Weeks
Why The Black Prism is on this list: In the overflowing realm of high and epic fantasies, 'The Black Prism' stands out as a powerful example of low fantasy. It features a captivating, down-to-earth world where the supernatural coexists with the normal. This book will make you wonder why you ever feared reading fantasy novels in the first place.
'The Black Prism' introduces you to the world of Guile, the most powerful person in the world who happens to be living under a ton of lies. When a secret from his past threatens to unravel his empire, Guile has to fight, deceive and cheat to preserve it. Oh, and did we mention he has powers to create and control magic using color? It's like throne politics and the rainbow had a baby.
What readers like: Readers have fallen head over heels for Brent Week's beautifully intricate plotlines, realistic characters, and original magic system. They appreciate how Weeks manages to balance deep storytelling with humor and a dash of philosophy. The fact that it's relatively grounded despite having magic is like a breath of fresh air, which is ironic, because a decent amount of action takes place at sea.
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Assassin's Apprentice
by Robin Hobb
Why Assassin's Apprentice is on this list: If you're looking for magic minus the sorcerers, and a dash of political intrigue soaked in realism, this low fantasy novel is right up your alley. Plus, it’s got a young royal blooded assassin...how cool is that?
Assassin’s Apprentice is the story of Fitz, the bastard son of a nobleman, raised in the shadowy world of the royal court. Raised by the Stablemaster, taught dark and deadly arts, Fitz navigates through political intrigue, betrayals and deadly plots, all the while grappling with his innate magical abilities; a perfect blend of fantasy without going way over your head. As a cherry on top, the novel has a layer of realism that grounds the entire narrative.
What readers like: Readers love this book, mainly for the rich characters and intricately woven plot. They're drawn into the mysteries and complications of the royal court, all narrated by a flawed but likable young protagonist. The consistently high praise for Robin Hobb's beautiful writing style adds icing to the scrumptious cake that is Assassin's Apprentice. Just be warned: you might lose a few nights of sleep over this.
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City of Stairs
by Robert Jackson Bennett
Why City of Stairs is on this list:
City of Stairs is essentially an enigma wrapped in a mystery, stuck in a world where gods are dead, their miracles forgotten, and their city lost. The story follows a sassy operative named Shara who's tasked with the job of seeking answers. As she delves deep into the societal, political and religious fabrics of Bulikov, she uncovers truths that have the power to shake the very pillars of the known world. It's a narrative filled with intricate plots and richly complex characters, all playing out on a stage of multilayered cultures and histories.
What readers like: Readers all over have lauded Bennett’s knack for diverse world-building and his elegantly complex political structures. Also, Shara's sarcastic humor alongside her badass-grandma vibe, makes the journey all the more enjoyable. In addition, they love the plot's slow but steady reveal of magic which keeps the pages turning nonstop.
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The Painted Man
by Peter V. Brett
Why The Painted Man is on this list: The Painted Man blends reality with fantasy in the most delicate way, giving you just enough magic to spark your imagination, while still delivering a story that feels grounded and real. It's low fantasy at its best.
For anyone looking to dip their toes into low fantasy, this book tells a compelling story set in a world that feels familiar, yet is irrefutably fantastic. Picture our own world, but with the existence of demons that rise up from the ground each night to prey on humans. Now add a protagonist, Arlen, who decides to withstand these nightly attacks rather than cower in fear. It's a delicious tale of bravery, resilience and the age-old fight between good and evil.
What readers like: People love the character development and world-building in The Painted Man. Despite being a fantasy novel, the characters feel like real people struggling with relatable problems, which makes the story even more engrossing. Plus, the well-crafted political and social undertones of the book give it a depth that avid readers really appreciate.
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