The Best Fantasy Books of 2025

Rating: 5

Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros continues to enchant readers with its enthralling blend of romance, adventure, and political intrigue, marking it as a standout installment in the Empyrean series. In this third book, the protagonist Violet Sorrengail's journey becomes ever more perilous and complex as she navigates the labyrinthine world of dragon riders. Yarros deftly captures the essence of Violet's character, showcasing her growth and resilience in the face of political machinations and treacherous alliances. The novel's narrative pacing is expertly balanced, intertwining breath-taking action sequences with poignant, intimate moments that explore Violet's internal struggles and aspirations. The world-building is vivid and immersive, offering readers a deep dive into a realm where dragons soar through tempestuous skies and power dynamics continually shift. Yarros's skilled prose paints a dynamic picture of the characters' relationships, be it the fiery chemistry between Violet and her counterparts or the intricate web of loyalty and deception that ensnares them. The novel's ability to interlace elements of romance with a rich tapestry of adventure and lore solidifies Yarros's mastery within the fantasy genre. Readers who have followed Violet's saga since its inception will find themselves captivated anew; the emotional stakes are higher, the challenges more daunting, and the triumphs more satisfying. "Onyx Storm" is a testament to Yarros's ability to craft a narrative that maintains the integrity of its fantastical world while delving into the depths of its characters' hearts, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what lies beyond the storm.

— James Smith

Rating: 5

The Rose Field by Philip Pullman stands as a poignant and fitting conclusion to The Book of Dust series, a testament to Pullman's unparalleled ability to weave complex narratives that resonate with readers on multiple levels. Set for release on October 23, 2025, this final volume invites fans into a richly imagined universe as it follows the courageous journey of Lyra Silvertongue, our beloved heroine, as she embarks on a quest to reunite with her dæmon. Pullman's masterful storytelling shines through in his meticulous world-building, which elegantly marries philosophical inquiries with fantastical elements, creating a landscape where questions of identity and destiny are brought to life with subtlety and depth. In "The Rose Field," the stakes are monumental, as Lyra's journey becomes a metaphorical exploration of self-discovery and empowerment, where personal growth is intricately tied to her quest's outcome. Pullman's use of language is both lyrical and precise, infusing the narrative with a gravitas that draws readers into the superfine details of Lyra's universe. Character development remains at the forefront, with Lyra portrayed as both vulnerable and formidable, her determination shining through in moments of adversity. Her interactions with supporting characters are infused with emotional authenticity, allowing readers to become deeply invested in their collective fates. Themes of sacrifice, love, and the perennial search for truth resonate powerfully throughout the novel, effectively tying together narrative threads that have been woven over the course of the series. Fans of Pullman's work will undoubtedly appreciate the nuanced exploration of these motifs, finding themselves both satisfied and introspective as Lyra's story reaches its long-awaited culmination. "The Rose Field" is a literary gem that underscores the timeless nature of Pullman's writing, leaving readers with a profound sense of wonder and a lingering contemplation of the possibilities that lie within us all.

— David Miller

Rating: 5

The Knight & the Moth by Rachel Gillig offers a captivating journey into a world richly imbued with magic and mystery, where the intricate dynamics between characters create a narrative that is both compelling and atmospheric. Released on May 20, 2025, the novel introduces readers to Sibyl, a Diviner prophetess whose path intersects with a blasphemous knight, leading to the discovery of secrets that could unravel the very fabric of her world. Gillig's storytelling is characterized by its lush and evocative world-building, where every detail is meticulously crafted to enhance the reader's immersion. The haunting beauty of Sibyl's journey, marked by the search for her missing sisters, unfolds against a backdrop of ancient lore and forgotten myths, providing a canvas on which Gillig paints vivid scenes that linger in the reader's mind. The interplay between Sibyl and her knightly companion is a masterclass in character dynamics, showcasing the evolution of their partnership as they traverse a landscape laden with challenges both internal and external. Gillig deftly navigates complex themes of faith, redemption, and the blurred lines between prophecy and destiny, infusing the narrative with layers of meaning that encourage deeper reflection. At the core of "The Knight & the Moth" lies an exploration of identity and the power of choice, as Sibyl grapples with the weight of her role as a prophetess while confronting her own desires and fears. The novel's pace is deliberately measured, allowing the tension to build gradually, culminating in a climax that is both satisfying and thought-provoking. Readers will find themselves entranced by the elegance of Gillig's prose and the intricacy of the plot, which captivates from the opening pages and holds its grip until the final, poignant moments. "The Knight & the Moth" is a testament to Rachel Gillig's exceptional ability to craft a narrative that seamlessly blends the fantastical with the deeply human, leaving readers both enchanted and eager for more tales from this beguiling world.

— Sophia Brown

Rating: 4.9

A Song of Legends Lost by M.H. Ayinde heralds an exciting debut into the fantasy genre, offering a fresh perspective on traditional tropes through its sweeping narrative and richly detailed world. Released on June 3, 2025, the novel introduces readers to the Kingdom of Nine Lands, where history is as alive as the characters who inhabit it. At the heart of this epic narrative is Temi, a young commoner whose accidental summoning of a powerful spirit sets in motion a series of events that could alter the course of a long-standing war. Ayinde's mastery of world-building is on full display as the Kingdom of Nine Lands unfolds with a vibrancy and complexity that transports readers to its varied terrains and cultures. The political intricacies of the kingdom are deftly woven into the plot, offering a tapestry of alliances, betrayals, and power struggles that enrich the reader's understanding of the stakes involved. Character development is a cornerstone of Ayinde's storytelling; Temi emerges not only as a central figure but as a symbol of resilience and change, her journey charting a path of growth that is both individual and collective. Through her trials, Temi's character blossoms into one that challenges traditional narratives of heroism, forging her own identity amidst the expectations imposed by her world. Ayinde's prose is both poetic and incisive, capturing the emotional undertones of the story while propelling it forward with momentum and depth. Themes of destiny, legacy, and the transformative power of choice resonate powerfully throughout the narrative, inviting readers to consider the broader implications of the characters' decisions. As the plot unfolds, twists and revelations are artfully interspersed, ensuring a narrative rhythm that keeps readers engaged and invested in Temi's fate. "A Song of Legends Lost" stands as an impressive debut, showcasing M.H. Ayinde's ability to breathe new life into the fantasy genre through a novel that is as thoughtful as it is thrilling, leaving readers eager to explore the vast expanse of the Kingdom of Nine Lands.

— Isabella Wilson

Rating: 4.8

The Secret Market of The Dead by Giovanni De Feo is an entrancing exploration of boundaries and identities, set against the backdrop of the enigmatic city of Naples. Released on July 8, 2025, the novel delves into the surreal as it challenges societal norms and ventures into the shadowy realm of the Night. At its heart is Oriana, a protagonist whose journey toward self-discovery is inextricably linked to the mysteries that unfold around her. De Feo's narrative is rich with cultural and supernatural elements, creating a setting that is both arresting and immersive. Naples is brought to life with vivid detail, becoming a character in its own right as it teems with hidden alcoves and secretive societies that draw the reader deeper into the story. Oriana's character arc is meticulously crafted, portraying a young woman whose defiance of convention propels her into the unknown, challenging preconceptions about fate and freedom. De Feo's writing is both lyrical and poignant, capturing the essence of Oriana's explorations as they blur the lines between day and night, reality and myth. The novel's thematic core revolves around the interplay of destiny and agency, as Oriana's choices illuminate the nuanced possibilities of self-determination and the courage required to embrace one's true path. The supporting cast is equally well-developed, offering a tapestry of relationships and narratives that contribute to the novel's richness. As the tension builds, the narrative effortlessly blends moments of high drama with quiet introspection, crafting a rhythm that is both captivating and contemplative. Readers will find themselves entranced by De Feo's ability to navigate the intersections of the tangible and the ethereal, presenting a story that resonates on multiple levels. "The Secret Market of The Dead" is a testament to Giovanni De Feo's talent as a storyteller, offering a narrative that is both mysterious and profound, leaving readers lingering in the twilight between imagination and reality long after the final page is turned.

— Sophia Brown