High Fantasy vs. Low Fantasy: A Bookworm’s Guide to Choosing Your Next Adventure

“The Way of Kings” by Brandon Sanderson is high fantasy at its finest. Set in the richly imagined world of Roshar, this epic tale introduces a land of storms, magic, and ancient mysteries. The story follows multiple characters as they navigate a world on the brink of catastrophe.

Sanderson’s masterful world-building showcases why high fantasy is so captivating. From the unique ecology to the intricate magic system, every aspect of Roshar feels both alien and utterly believable. If you’re looking to dive deep into a completely new world, “The Way of Kings” offers an unforgettable high-fantasy adventure that sets it apart from low-fantasy tales.

Assassin’s Apprentice” by Robin Hobb is a gem of high fantasy that’ll whisk you away. Set in the Six Duchies, we follow Fitz, a royal bastard with a mysterious gift. As he learns the art of assassination, Fitz becomes entangled in a web of magic and political intrigue.
Hobb’s world-building shines, showcasing why high fantasy is so captivating. From the Skill magic to the enigmatic Elderlings, every element feels fresh yet familiar. Unlike low fantasy, “Assassin’s Apprentice” creates a fully realized realm with its own rules. If you’re craving an immersive high fantasy adventure, Fitz’s journey won’t disappoint.

“The Malevolent Seven” by Sebastian de Castell turns typical high fantasy tropes on their head. Meet Cade Ombra, a mercenary wonderist who’s far from your stereotypical wizard. This gritty tale follows Cade as he joins a suicide mission against the seven deadliest mages on the continent.

De Castell’s world blends elements of high and low fantasy in a unique way. While set in a magical realm, the story’s tone and characters feel grounded and relatable. If you’re tired of traditional fantasy and crave something with a darker, more realistic edge, “The Malevolent Seven” offers a refreshing twist on the genre. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy their fantasy with a hefty dose of sarcasm and morally gray characters.

“Daughter of the Moon Goddess” by Sue Lynn Tan is a captivating high fantasy inspired by Chinese mythology. We follow Xingyin, a young woman hidden on the moon, unaware her existence violates the Celestial Kingdom’s sacred laws.

Tan’s lush world-building transports us to a realm of immortals, magic, and mythical creatures. Unlike low fantasy, this story immerses readers in a fully realized celestial empire. With its epic quest and richly imagined setting, this book exemplifies high fantasy’s sweeping scope. If you crave a fresh take on the genre rooted in Eastern mythology, Xingyin’s journey promises an unforgettable adventure.

“Fourth Wing” by Rebecca Yarros is a high fantasy BookTok sensation that’s taking the reading world by storm. This exhilarating tale follows Violet Sorrengail, who must enter a brutal dragon rider training program or face certain death.

Yarros crafts a vividly imagined world where dragons and their riders reign supreme. Unlike low fantasy, “Fourth Wing” plunges readers into a completely new realm with its own rules and magical systems. With its high-stakes challenges, fierce dragons, and sizzling romance, this book epitomizes the immersive experience of high fantasy. If you’re looking for an addictive read that blends action, magic, and heart-pounding excitement, this BookTok favorite is sure to satisfy your high fantasy cravings.

“The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern is a mesmerizing example of low fantasy. Set in the late 19th century, it follows two young magicians bound to a mysterious competition in a magical nocturnal circus.

Unlike high fantasy, this book brings enchantment right into our world. Morgenstern weaves magic into the familiar, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that feels both magical and real. If you’re looking for a beautifully written low fantasy that blurs the lines between reality and illusion, “The Night Circus” is a perfect choice.

“Magic for Liars” by Sarah Gailey is a gripping low fantasy that blends magic with a classic noir detective story. Ivy Gamble, a non-magical private investigator, is called to solve a murder at the magical academy where her estranged twin sister teaches.

This book expertly showcases how low fantasy can bring magic into our everyday world. Unlike high fantasy realms, the magic here exists alongside the mundane, creating an intriguing contrast. Gailey’s clever writing explores themes of sibling rivalry and self-acceptance against a backdrop of magical mystery. If you enjoy your fantasy with a dash of crime fiction and relatable characters, “Magic for Liars” offers a fresh take on the genre.

“The Ocean at the End of the Lane” by Neil Gaiman is a haunting low fantasy that blurs the lines between reality and magic. It follows an unnamed narrator who returns to his childhood home and recalls a series of mysterious, otherworldly events from his past.

Gaiman masterfully weaves fantastical elements into a familiar, rural English setting, showcasing the essence of low fantasy. Unlike high fantasy’s grand new worlds, this book finds magic in the cracks of our own reality. It explores themes of memory, childhood, and the unknown lurking just beyond our perception. If you’re looking for a lyrical, thought-provoking low fantasy that feels both intimate and cosmic, “The Ocean at the End of the Lane” is a perfect choice.

“The House in the Cerulean Sea” by T.J. Klune is a heartwarming low fantasy that will leave you smiling. It follows Linus Baker, a case worker for the Department in Charge of Magical Youth, as he investigates an orphanage for unusual children on a remote island.

Klune brilliantly blends magical elements into a world that feels familiar yet enchanted. Unlike high fantasy’s completely new realms, this book shows how magic can exist quietly alongside our everyday lives. With its charming characters and themes of found family, it demonstrates how low fantasy can be both cozy and profound. If you’re seeking a feel-good magical story set in a world much like our own, “The House in the Cerulean Sea” is a delightful choice.

“The Ten Thousand Doors of January” by Alix E. Harrow is a captivating low fantasy that bridges our world with countless others. Set in the early 1900s, it follows January Scaller, a young woman who discovers a mysterious book about doors to other worlds and her own ability to open them.

Harrow skillfully intertwines magical elements with historical fiction, showcasing the versatility of low fantasy. Unlike high fantasy’s completely imagined worlds, this book uses our familiar reality as a springboard to explore the extraordinary. It weaves themes of love, identity, and the power of words into a magical adventure. If you’re looking for a beautifully written low fantasy that opens doors to imagination and possibility, January’s story is an enchanting choice.