Gaspode's Book Reviews

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Best Fantasy (Non-LitRPG)

The best fantasy novels I've read, excluding the LitRPG subgenre.

  1. 1
    Cover of The Blade Itself

    The Blade Itself

    by Joe Abercrombie

    I loved this book. The set up is just so great. Logan is one of the best characters in modern fantasy.

    A
  2. 2
    Cover of Wise Man's Fear

    Wise Man's Fear

    by Patrick Rothfuss

    Rothfuss is such a great writer. I liked this even more the second time around.

    A-
  3. 3
    Cover of The Midnight Falcon

    The Midnight Falcon

    by David Gemmell

    Pure Gemmell heroic fantasy. His conception of heroes and sacrifice is unmatched.

    A-
  4. 4
    Cover of The Curse of Chalion

    The Curse of Chalion

    by Lois McMaster Bujold

    This may be Bujold's best book. Damaged heroes done right.

    A-
  5. 5
    Cover of Wyrd Sisters

    Wyrd Sisters

    by Terry Pratchett

    Granny Weatherwax is one of the greatest characters of all time. Pratchett was a genius.

    A-
  6. 6
    Cover of The Tainted Cup

    The Tainted Cup

    by Robert Jackson Bennett

    Sherlock Holmes with a genuinely original magic system. Quite well done.

    A-
  7. 7
    Cover of The Book That Wouldn't Burn

    The Book That Wouldn't Burn

    by Mark Lawrence

    Very well crafted. The way the two storylines come together is unexpected and satisfying.

    A-
  8. 8
    Cover of The Lies of Locke Lamora

    The Lies of Locke Lamora

    by Scott Lynch

    Not excellent, but very good. Great twists and strong narrative pull.

    A-
  9. 9
    The Theft of Swords

    The Theft of Swords

    by Michael J. Sullivan

    The two main characters are compelling. A reliable fantasy adventure.

    B+
  10. 10
    Cover of How to Rule an Empire and Get Away with It

    How to Rule an Empire and Get Away with It

    by K.J. Parker

    Solid, professional fantasy. The ending made me want to read the next book.

    B+