Best Epic Fantasy Books December 2024

Before They Are Hanged

Gritty and unrelenting, Abercrombie’s second installment in The First Law trilogy plunges readers deeper into a world of betrayal and brutal warfare. As armies clash and alliances crumble, unlikely heroes emerge from the chaos. The author’s razor-sharp wit and unflinching portrayal of flawed characters kept me riveted. I found myself both horrified and oddly charmed by the morally ambiguous cast, their raw humanity shining through even in the darkest moments. A masterclass in subverting fantasy tropes.

The Blade Itself

Logen Ninefingers, a notorious barbarian, finds himself on a collision course with destiny. Fleeing his blood-soaked past, he’s drawn into a web of intrigue and violence in the crumbling Union. Meanwhile, a vain nobleman grapples with his own demons, and a young apprentice discovers her magical potential. Abercrombie weaves a gritty, darkly humorous tale that subverts fantasy tropes, leaving readers questioning who the real heroes are. With its morally ambiguous characters and brutal world, “The Blade Itself” cuts deep, leaving you hungry for more.

The Sandman: The Kindly Ones

Gaiman’s masterful storytelling reaches its pinnacle in “The Kindly Ones.” As Dream faces his greatest challenge, the narrative weaves through realms both familiar and strange, blending mythology with modern sensibilities. I found myself captivated by the intricate plot and haunting imagery. The characters’ struggles resonated deeply, reminding me of our own human frailties. It’s a bittersweet journey that left me pondering long after the final page. Truly, a crowning achievement in the Sandman saga.

A Dream of Spring

In this long-awaited finale to the epic “A Song of Ice and Fire” series, Martin weaves together the myriad storylines of Westeros and beyond. As winter’s grip loosens, alliances shift and enemies unite against an ancient evil. Daenerys and her dragons face their ultimate test, while in the North, the true heir to the Iron Throne grapples with destiny. With Martin’s signature blend of political intrigue, complex characters, and heart-wrenching twists, “A Dream of Spring” promises a bittersweet conclusion that will leave readers spellbound.

The Winds of Winter

In this long-awaited sixth installment of A Song of Ice and Fire, George R.R. Martin weaves a tapestry of intrigue, betrayal, and magic. Winter has finally arrived in Westeros, bringing with it ancient terrors and new alliances. As dragons soar and White Walkers march, beloved characters face their greatest challenges yet. Martin’s masterful storytelling keeps readers on the edge of their seats, reminding us why we fell in love with this world in the first place. A feast for fans, both old and new.

Song of Susannah

Wolves of the Calla

In this gripping installment of King’s Dark Tower series, Roland and his ka-tet find themselves in Calla Bryn Sturgis, a town plagued by fearsome “wolves” who steal children. As they unravel the mystery, the gunslingers face their own demons and forge unexpected alliances. King’s masterful storytelling weaves together Western, fantasy, and horror elements, creating a rich tapestry that kept me up late into the night. The characters’ growth and the looming threat make this a standout in the saga.

Wizard and Glass

Roland’s past unfolds in this haunting tale of love and loss. As the gunslinger recounts his youth in Mejis, we’re transported to a world of romance, betrayal, and destiny. King weaves a mesmerizing narrative, rich with vivid characters and heart-wrenching moments. I found myself completely absorbed, feeling Roland’s joy and heartbreak as if they were my own. It’s a bittersweet journey that adds depth to the Dark Tower saga, leaving you both satisfied and yearning for more.

The Drawing of the Three

In this gripping sequel, Roland the Gunslinger continues his quest for the Dark Tower, drawing three unlikely companions from our world. King masterfully weaves together elements of fantasy, horror, and Western genres, creating a rich tapestry of characters and worlds. As I read, I found myself completely immersed in Roland’s journey, feeling the grit of the beach beneath my feet and the weight of his choices. The way King explores themes of addiction and redemption resonated deeply with me, making this not just a thrilling adventure, but a profound exploration of the human condition.

The Waste Lands

In this gripping third installment of King’s Dark Tower series, Roland and his ka-tet continue their perilous quest. Haunted by the paradox of Jake’s death, Roland’s sanity teeters on the brink. As they traverse the desolate Mid-World, facing nightmarish creatures and mind-bending riddles, the group’s bonds are tested. King’s masterful blend of Western, fantasy, and horror elements creates a richly immersive experience that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this epic saga.