Savor 11 Low Fantasy Books with Artistic Flair
Book RaiderHooked on the grim, the gritty, and the gallant? Had your fill of fancy wizards brandishing blinding light at fiery dragons while riding on shimmering unicorns? Here's a little wind change for all the high fantasy bibliophiles - welcome to the realm of Low Fantasy books, a tantalizingly terra firma genre that will not assault you with verbose descriptions of diamond coated dragon scales or mesmerizing magic. Your heroes are not demi-gods in silver armor, they are wonderfully flawed, as human as you or I, flirting with moral ambiguity and yet carrying on bravely in their not-so-perfect fantasies.
These enchanting, ton-of-bricks stories come lined with artistic flair, speak the language of the real, gritty world;, and are filled with drama that’s far removed from the epic, world-spanning narratives and overflowing magic. Low Fantasy, sheathed in earthly hues, doesn’t rely heavily on a magical setting, preferring instead to serve up all the charm, foibles, and failings of the human condition, in an all too relatable setting. Grab a cup of joe and settle into your favorite reading nook as we take a jaunt through our favorite Low Fantasy books that are spectacularly earthbound yet anything but mundane.
The Shadow of the Gods
by John Gwynne
Why The Shadow of the Gods is on this list: If you're on the hunt for a low fantasy tale that's packed with artistic flair, boy, have you hit the jackpot. This novel isn't about whimsy and magic, it's steeped in Scandinavian folklore, richly detailed with a realistic world setting and atmospheric landscapes.
The Shadow of the Gods revolves around the trilogy 'The Bloodsworn Saga'. It's set in a world shattered by some godly conflict and the ground is literally the shattered fragments of a once whole goddess. It's like Mad Max, Vikings and the Lord of the Rings had a love child. You'll find a viking-style setting, folklore, ghostly spirits and fabled monsters, draped in a brooding sense of doom and sacrifice.
What readers like: Readers of John Gwynne's 'The Shadow of the Gods' rave about the intricate relationships between characters, the unexpected plot twists, and the way the author mixes grim realities with strands of wondrous magic. It's captivating, it's dark, and it screams artistic brilliance right from page one. Bear in mind, it's a gritty novel, but if you're averse to a bit of biting cold and snow-streaked beards, you're probably not a true low-fantasy fan anyway.
Check Price at Amazon
Foundryside
by Robert Jackson Bennett
Why Foundryside is on this list: Nothing says 'Low Fantasy with Artistic Flair' quite like Foundryside. It aims to redefine the fantasy genre, making it accessible even for non-fantasy readers. Plus, its elements of art and creativity shines through.
This isn't your regular magic and elves romp. 'Foundryside' is set in a city run by industrialised magic, where Sancia Grado, a street-thief with a 'not-so-common' ability, steals an artifact that could potentially undo the rules of reality. The storyline pivots between different perspectives, deeply exploring the roles of creation and creators, and the blurred lines between art and technology.
What readers like: Readers are loving the book's refreshing, low-key magic system and the brain-tickling blend of fantasy, technology, and art. Bennett's knack for well-developed characters and intricate world-building is something that has fans raving. The deeply layered story is a must-read for those looking for a new spin on fantasy.
Check Price at Amazon
The Poppy War
by R.F. Kuang
Why The Poppy War is on this list: Part fantastic odyssey, part brutal war chronicle, The Poppy War serves up a rich helping of low-fantasy storyline with a side of artistry. This ain't Narnia or Hogwarts, baby. You won't find polite wand-waving wizards or talking beavers here, just raw, real, grounded magic that's as messy and unpredictable as life itself.
Pull up a comfy chair for Rin, an ordinary war-orphan girl in an extraordinary situation. She aces a test, gets into an exclusive military academy, discovers her own volatile, Shamanic powers, and then... it's off to the violent battlefield where she must take on a powerful empire. With this novel, Kuang masterfully weaves grim war realities with fantastical magic creating an unforgettable, sobering tale.
What readers like: Readers dig the raw power and emotion Kuang brings to the genre, calling it heartbreaking and ultimately, human. This brilliantly written, unique story is a sucker punch to the gut that leaves you wanting more. And the characters... oh boy, the characters! They're as real and rich as your grandma's chocolate cake. Suffice it to say, fans like their fantasy served dark, dangerous and honest, just like a cup of black coffee at 2am.
Check Price at Amazon
City of Brass
by S.A. Chakraborty
Why City of Brass is on this list: City of Brass gracefully marries the vivid, atmospheric world-building of low fantasy with a unique artistic splash. With an authentic Middle-Eastern backdrop, devoid of too magical whimsy, it still manages to richly manifest the psychology, politics, and culture of its world.
Nahri, a young con artist in eighteenth-century Cairo, stumbles upon a hidden world when she accidentally summons Dara, a warrior djinn. Thrust amidst legendary creatures, court intrigues, and brewing rebellions, Nahri has to juggle her inherent skeptic nature while interfacing with both the physical realm and the otherworldly. The story twists and turns through opulent palaces and devastating battlegrounds with Nahri's struggle for survival.
What readers like: Readers have often praised 'City of Brass' for its intriguing plot adorned with a charismatic heroine, engaging banter, and intrinsic suspense. Chakraborty’s nuanced handling of political and cultural issues injects intriguing layers to the tale, making it both captivating and intellectually stimulating. They marvel at her painterly prose that brings alive every market, alley, and royal court in daeva-infused Cairo.
Check Price at Amazon
The Court of Broken Knives
by Anna Smith Spark
Why The Court of Broken Knives is on this list: Anna Smith Spark masterfully creates an elaborate low fantasy world that will snare you with its artsy allure. Combining magic realism with gritty political intrigue, it’s a gorgeous masterpiece of strange beauty.
The Court of Broken Knives explores a world where power is more important than life itself The book plunges headfirst into the murky depths of politics in the Empire of Dust. Woven against a low fantasy backdrop, it showcases the relentless struggle of a disgraced nobleman, the bloody conquest of a killer-priest, and the desperate courage of a mysterious thief. Things take an unexpected turn when their fates intermingle, spinning an irresistible spell of transfixing drama.
What readers like: Readers are usually spellbound by Anna's poetic prose that paints her world in vivid hues. Gritty, realistic conflict ensues as the characters grapple with their unique problems, which keeps the readers hooked. The way she intertwines the lives of her characters in a sinister dance of power, leaves everyone marveling at her particular brand of low fantasy storytelling.
Check Price at Amazon
City of Lies
by Sam Hawke
Why City of Lies is on this list: City of Lies is an enthralling of low fantasy where you'll discover there are as many creatures in the city as in any magic-infested wilderness. It stands out with its subtle creative streak, blending an intricate narrative and exotic poison crafting.
In this fascinating read, we get close and personal with Jovan, protector to a friend who ascended unexpectedly to the city's throne. His duty - stopping poisoners who are trying to royally mess things up. When he's not acting as a food taster, Jovan uses his secret skills to hunt down the hidden killers infiltrating the city's highest ranks.
What readers like: Fans bask in the novel's rich political intrigue and bond with the compelling sibling protagonists. They appreciate the clever plot twists and the focus on Jovan's and Kalina's loyalty and duty over more typical 'save the world' heroics. No need for dragons and sorcery throw downs when human ambitions pose the perfect storm.
Check Price at Amazon
The Song of the Ash Tree
by T.L. Greylock
Why The Song of the Ash Tree is on this list: This is just the ticket if you're after a low fantasy book that's swimming in artistic imagination rather than dragons and magic potions. It's a fresh take on the Norse sagas and the renewed grandeur of a world full of warriors and honour, minus the overblown mysticism.
It's a journey into a world inspired by Viking lore, laced with gritty realism. It tells the story of Ralaken, a reluctant hero thrust into a tired old world of conflict and despair. He gets tangled up in a war that seems pointless and tragedies that feel too real. The lines between heroes and enemies blur as he navigates the chaos, with the eponymous Ash Tree watching silently over the world.
What readers like: Readers appreciate the truly unique feel of T.L. Greylock's storytelling. The book beautifully marries low key fantasy with high octane drama that keeps you engaged till the last page. Plus, fans love how the poetic prose paints vivid landscapes and deep characters, without a single fire-breathing dragon or enchanted sword in sight.
Check Price at Amazon
Blood of an Exile
by Brian Naslund
Why Blood of an Exile is on this list: This book offers the best of both worlds: a raw low setting and an artistic touch in storytelling. Its low fantasy roots give it a realistic vibe, while the imaginative plotline adds the artistic flair - making it a worthy pick for our list.
Blood of an Exile is about an exiled dragon slayer, Bershad, who is seemingly indestructible, yet cursed. He has to slay dragons for a crime he doesn’t recall committing, living quite the anti-hero life. Things get interesting when a chance for redemption pops up, which could end his forever dragon slaying gig, but it also might kill him. A dicey decision for sure.
What readers like: Readers can't get enough of Naslund's vivid world-building and strong characters. They love how the main character, Bershad, is flawed but relatable, making it easy for them to get entangled in the story. Plus, who doesn't love a good old dragon-slaying adventure sprinkled with chunky moral dilemmas?
Check Price at Amazon
Blackwing
by Ed McDonald
Why Blackwing is on this list: Blackwing thrills with a low fantasy setting brimming in gritty realism, magic that’s as dangerous as it is enchanting and has a slew of artistry in its world-building that echoes through its language, plot, and characters.
Blackwing is set in a world where magic is feared and desired in equal measure. The protagonist, Ryhalt Galharrow, is a hardened bounty hunter, making a living in the most perilous frontier of the Republic. Things take an intriguing turn when Galharrow stumbles upon a sorcerous conspiracy that threatens the Republic's very existence. As he dives deeper into a world of ancient, forbidden magic, Galharrow must question everything he believed about loyalty, power and fear.
What readers like: Readers adore the inventive magic system that is equal parts terrifying and enthralling, the unflinching portrayal of a grim, dystopian world, and the protagonist whose rough exterior hides a deeply human heart. Plus, Ed McDonald's skillful writing is often commended, painting vivid and evocative pictures that makes the pages seemingly come alive. If exploring dark alleys, whisky-soaked taverns and the shadowy corners of human morality is your jam, this one's for you.
Check Price at Amazon
The All-Consuming World
by Cassandra Khaw
Why The All-Consuming World is on this list: In the realm of low fantasy with a dash of artsy style, The All-Consuming World stands out thanks to Cassandra Khaw's lyrical writing and the way she creates a world that bridges the gap between science fiction and fantasy.
Picture a dysfunctional team of space criminals who managed to break the universe a little. A huge chunk of them are dead and the leftovers aren't on great terms. So, they set aside their issues to find their lost captain and the reason behind the inexplicable happening. Add a healthy dose of AI uprisings, untamed magic, vengeful gods and brutal query systems, and you have the plot for this beautiful mess of a book.
What readers like: Readers praise this title for its gripping storyline, complex characters, and Cassandra Khaw's unique way of painting vivid high-stakes scenes that make you feel like you’re right there in the middle of all the action. The brilliant blend of sci-fi and fantasy elements also get a big thumbs up, especially from those who love a good genre-bending read.
Check Price at Amazon
We Ride the Storm
by Devin Madson
Why We Ride the Storm is on this list: In the realm of low fantasy, 'We Ride the Storm' deviates from typical high-octane, magical dramas and instead shows us an artistic display of human struggle, cunning politics and immersive world-building laced with a pinch of supernatural forces. The artistry of the narrative style and character depth fits nicely into our artistic flair theme.
Journey into an elaborate empire entwined in a perpetual war and political intrigue. 'We Ride the Storm' unfolds an immersive story through the eyes of a cunning princess desperate for power, a nomadic warrior navigating unfamiliar cultures, and a charming commander hiding dangerous secrets. There's a dash of magic too, but just enough to spice up the narrative without overpowering the unfolding human drama.
What readers like: Readers have appreciated how Devin Madson skillfully weaves theirs characters' complex emotional landscapes with the gritty realism of the chaotic war-torn setting. They've loved the intricate detail in the world-building, the morally gray characters, and the lean yet punchy prose that doesn't rely on flowery language to convey deep feelings and intense action.
Check Price at Amazon
