Best Epic Fantasy Books December 2024

The Witcher: Sword of Destiny

Geralt of Rivia, the legendary monster hunter, returns in this gripping collection of short stories. Sapkowski weaves a tapestry of dark fantasy, blending Slavic folklore with gritty realism. As Geralt navigates a world of moral ambiguity, he encounters unforgettable characters and faces impossible choices. Each tale is a masterclass in storytelling, exploring themes of destiny, love, and the nature of humanity. I found myself utterly captivated by the rich world-building and complex relationships. A must-read for fantasy lovers.

The Hunger of the Gods

In “The Hunger of the Gods,” John Gwynne weaves a gripping tale of vengeance and destiny. I was captivated by the rich Norse-inspired world, where gods walk among mortals and ancient magic awakens. The characters’ struggles felt so real, I found myself holding my breath during intense battle scenes. Gwynne’s masterful storytelling had me pondering the nature of power and sacrifice long after I turned the final page. A must-read for fantasy lovers seeking an epic adventure with heart.

The Witcher: The Last Wish

Geralt of Rivia, the white-haired monster hunter, roams a dark fantasy world, slaying beasts for coin. Sapkowski’s collection of interconnected tales weaves a tapestry of moral ambiguity, where monsters aren’t always evil and humans often prove the real villains. With dry wit and unexpected twists, Geralt navigates political intrigue and personal demons, his choices echoing through a richly imagined world. I found myself captivated by the gritty realism and complex characters, each story leaving me hungry for more of the Witcher’s adventures.

The Shadow of the Gods

In “The Shadow of the Gods,” John Gwynne weaves a breathtaking Norse-inspired epic that left me spellbound. Set in a world where gods have fallen, three outcasts navigate a harsh landscape of blood-soaked battles and ancient magic. Gwynne’s vivid prose brings to life a gritty, immersive realm that feels both familiar and utterly unique. I found myself completely lost in the rich mythology and complex characters, staying up far too late just to read one more chapter. A must-read for fantasy lovers craving a fresh take on Norse legends.

Speaking Bones

In this gripping finale to Ken Liu’s epic fantasy series, ancient secrets and forgotten powers collide. As war looms, our heroes face impossible choices that will shape the fate of their world. Liu’s masterful storytelling weaves together intricate political machinations, heart-wrenching personal journeys, and philosophical musings on power and destiny. With lyrical prose and breathtaking imagination, Speaking Bones offers a satisfying conclusion that will leave readers spellbound and contemplating long after the final page.

The Veiled Throne

In “The Veiled Throne,” Ken Liu weaves a tapestry of intrigue and power in a world where magic and technology collide. I was captivated by the complex characters, each grappling with their own demons while navigating a treacherous political landscape. Liu’s prose is both lyrical and precise, painting vivid scenes that lingered in my mind long after I closed the book. The exploration of cultural identity and the cost of progress resonated deeply with me, making this more than just another fantasy novel.

The Wall of Storms

In this sweeping epic, Ken Liu weaves a tapestry of myth, magic, and political intrigue. Set in a world inspired by ancient China, the story follows a young empress struggling to maintain her grip on power. As rival factions plot and scheme, a mysterious force threatens from beyond the kingdom’s borders. Liu’s masterful prose brings to life complex characters and a richly imagined world, blending history and fantasy in a tale that will captivate readers until the very last page.

The Grace of Kings

Liu’s epic fantasy reimagines Chinese history through a captivating lens. Two unlikely friends become rivals as they fight to shape an empire’s future. Filled with intrigue, warfare, and mythical elements, the story weaves complex characters into a rich tapestry of ambition and destiny. Liu’s lyrical prose brings this vibrant world to life, exploring themes of power, loyalty, and the price of progress. A masterful blend of Eastern and Western storytelling traditions that will leave readers spellbound.

The Fall of Babel

Senlin’s journey through the Tower of Babel reaches its thrilling conclusion in this final installment. As chaos reigns and long-held secrets unravel, our unlikely hero must confront his greatest fears and make impossible choices. Bancroft’s vivid prose brings the Tower’s bizarre world to life, while exploring themes of power, identity, and the nature of humanity. A masterful blend of steampunk fantasy and philosophical musings, this book will leave you breathless and contemplating long after the last page is turned.

The Hod King

Senlin’s journey through the Tower of Babel takes a perilous turn as he infiltrates the ringdom of Pelphia. Disguised as a noble, he must navigate treacherous politics and uncover the whereabouts of his lost wife. Meanwhile, Voleta and Iren face their own challenges in the ringdom’s deadly arena. Bancroft’s vivid prose brings this steampunk world to life, weaving intrigue and adventure with moments of unexpected humor. As the stakes rise, loyalties are tested, and secrets threaten to unravel everything Senlin holds dear.