- I have been watching The 100 season 2 and the show is just getting better and better. Unfortunately, season 2 is almost finished. I'm not sure what I'm going to do with my life if I can't watch The 100.
- I finished watching How to Get Away with Murder season 1, and, boy, was that final episode shocking. I can't wait to see season two. Too bad I have to wait until the fall.
- I am still watching Elementary season 3, and I will be for a while longer because there are just so many episodes. Elementary is headed in a really exciting direction and I can't wait to find out more.
- I finished watching Broadchurch season 2. I was a little bit disappointed with the ending, but I still enjoyed it.
- I finally finished watching Legend of Korra, and I am currently kind of obsessed. Season 4 was definitely my favourite.
- I am currently watching Torchwood season 1. It's very... odd.
- I read The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater. The Raven Cycle is one of my favourite series of all time, and it's by the same author, so I've wanted to read the Scorpio Races for a while. I didn't enjoy is as much as the Raven Cycle, but it was still good.
- I read The Winner's Curse by Marie Rutkoski, the first book in a trilogy. The second book is coming out this year. The book was okay. I liked it enough to read the sequel when it comes out.
- I read Eona by Alison Goodman, the sequel to Eon and the last book in the duology. Wow, it was really good. I am annoyed that their are only two books in the series.
- I read The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson, and the sequel, The Crown of Embers. I enjoyed both books, and I plan on reading the final book in the trilogy soon.
- I read The Darkest Part of the Forest by Holly Black. It was the first book I have read by Holly Black, and the first book I read published in 2015. I liked it more than I thought I would. I'm definitely going to check out Holly Black's other books.
- I read The Darkest Minds by Alexandra Bracken, the first book in a science fiction trilogy. Why didn't I start reading this series sooner? I could not stop reading this book.
- I read The Ruby Circle by Richelle Mead, the last book in the Bloodlines series. I'm not a big fan of Vampire Academy and Bloodlines, but then again, I have read all twelve books. The Ruby Circle was okay, like all the other books in the series.
.
Friday, February 27, 2015
February 2015 Updates:
Here is what I've been reading and watching in February:
Monday, February 23, 2015
Favourite First Lines from Books
What makes a great first line in a book? My personal opinion is that the best first lines are the ones that immediately raise questions. If you don't understand what I mean, you most likely will in a minute. Here are some of my favourite first lines from books.
"First the colors. Then the humans. That's usually how I see things. Or at least, how I try."
- The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
"Blue Sargent had forgotten how many times she'd been told that she would kill her true love."
- The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater
"Aliens are stupid."
- The 5th Wave by Rick Yancy
"She'd never killed before tonight."
- Falling Kingdoms
"My mother thinks I'm dead."
- Legend
"Walking to school over the snow-muffled cobbles, Karou had no sinister premonitions about the day."
-Daughter of Smoke and Bone
"Look, I didn't want to be a demigod."
- The Lighting Thief
"I remember being born."
-Seraphina
"Just before the start of Summer Half, in April 1883, a very minor event took place at Eton college, the venerable and illustrious English public school for boys. A sixteen-year-old pupil names Archer Fairfax returned from a three-month absence, caused by a fractured femur, to resume his education. Almost every word in the preceding sentence is false. Archer Fairfax had not suffered a broken limb. He had never before set foot in Eton. His name was not Archer Fairfax. And he was not, in fact, even a he. This is the story of a girl who fooled a thousand boys, a boy who fooled an entire country, a partnership that would change the fate of realms and a power to challenge the greatest tyrant the world has ever known. Expect magic."
-The Burning Sky
(That last one was kind of cheating, as it was ten sentences instead of one. It's just that it's my favourite beginning of any book, so I had to include the whole thing.)
"First the colors. Then the humans. That's usually how I see things. Or at least, how I try."
- The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
"Blue Sargent had forgotten how many times she'd been told that she would kill her true love."
- The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater
"Aliens are stupid."
- The 5th Wave by Rick Yancy
"She'd never killed before tonight."
- Falling Kingdoms
"My mother thinks I'm dead."
- Legend
"Walking to school over the snow-muffled cobbles, Karou had no sinister premonitions about the day."
-Daughter of Smoke and Bone
"Look, I didn't want to be a demigod."
- The Lighting Thief
"I remember being born."
-Seraphina
"Just before the start of Summer Half, in April 1883, a very minor event took place at Eton college, the venerable and illustrious English public school for boys. A sixteen-year-old pupil names Archer Fairfax returned from a three-month absence, caused by a fractured femur, to resume his education. Almost every word in the preceding sentence is false. Archer Fairfax had not suffered a broken limb. He had never before set foot in Eton. His name was not Archer Fairfax. And he was not, in fact, even a he. This is the story of a girl who fooled a thousand boys, a boy who fooled an entire country, a partnership that would change the fate of realms and a power to challenge the greatest tyrant the world has ever known. Expect magic."
-The Burning Sky
(That last one was kind of cheating, as it was ten sentences instead of one. It's just that it's my favourite beginning of any book, so I had to include the whole thing.)
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
The Fantasy Book Post Part 2
Here is my first Fantasy Book Post. In it, I rambled for a while about fantasy and gave some book recommendations. In this post, I'll be giving some more recommendations. For each book recommendation, I
have included a (very short) description of the book, a rating in five
different categories (characters, plot, setting, writing and overall)
and my opinion on which fantasy category it fits into (high, medium or
low fantasy).
The Falling Kingdoms series (6 books, 3 books published) by Morgan Rhodes
Characters: 8/10
Plot: 9/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: High Fantasy
Books in Series: Falling Kingdoms, Rebel Spring, Gathering Darkness (and three unpublished books)
Short Description: This series has been said to be like a young adult version of Game of Thrones. I don't know whether or not that's true, since I haven't read Game of Thrones, but I can tell you that literally everyone except the four main characters dies. Unlike many other epic fantasy series, this one has a fast-paced plot, so it's fairly easy to get into.
The Inheritance Cycle (4 books) by Christopher Paolini
Characters: 7/10
Plot: 8/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 9/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: High Fantasy
Books in Series: Eragon, Eldest, Brisingr, Inheritance
Short Description: This series is really long, and the plot is pretty slow, so if that bothers you, do not read this book. This is a dragon book, which means that it's about dragons (obviously). It's kind of similar to the Lord of the Rings. You know, lots of walking around a kingdom and epic battles.
The Graceling series (3 books) by Kristin Cashore
Characters: 7/10
Plot: 7/10
Setting: 7/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 7/10
Type of Fantasy: High Fantasy
Books in Series: Graceling, Fire, Bitterblue
Short Description: This isn't really a series, it's just three novels that are in the same world. The books do connect to each other, however. I would suggest reading them in publishing order (Graceling, then Fire, then Bitterblue). You might find this series a little boring because the plot is pretty slow. I enjoyed it, but I wouldn't suggest it to those who are new to fantasy.
The Elemental Trilogy (3 books, 2 books published) by Sherry Thomas
Characters: 7/10
Plot: 9/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 9/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: I have no idea
Books in Series: The Burning Sky, The Perilous Sea and a third unpublished book
Short Description:I have no idea what this series is, but I like it. It is basically made up of magic and questions. I don't really know how to explain it. It's unlike anything else I've read. Is it historical fantasy? Parallel universe fantasy? I have no idea. It has romance and a pretty fast plot.
The Grisha Trilogy (3 books) by Leigh Bardugo
Characters: 7/10
Plot: 8/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 7/10
My Overall Rating: 7/10
Type of Fantasy: High Fantasy
Books in Series: Shadow and Bone, Siege and Storm, Ruin and Rising
Short Description: This series is very plot focused. It's pretty fast paced and easy to get into. Magic is a big part of this series. I would recommend it to those who haven't read much high fantasy. It's a pretty good introduction to the genre.
The Seraphina series (1 book published and a sequel coming soon) by Rachel Hartman
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 8/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: High Fantasy
Books in Series: Seraphina, Shadow Scale
Short Description: Dragons. That's all there is to say. Seraphina is great, but I would not recommend it for people who don't read a lot of fantasy. This book is interesting and engaging, but I would only recommend it to those who are big fans of high fantasy or dragons.
The Daughter of Smoke and Bone Trilogy (3 books) by Laini Taylor
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 8/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 9/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: Medium Fantasy
Books in Series: Daughter of Smoke & Bone, Days of Blood & Starlight, Dreams of Gods & Monsters
Short Description: Angels and demons and parallel universes. I really enjoyed this series. Some people say that it's confusing, but I don't agree. The plot is a little slow at times, but it's pretty easy to get into. This series is kind of a bridge between low and high fantasy. I would recommend it for fans of either genre.
Eon series (2 books) by Alison Goodman
Characters: 8/10
Plot: 10/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: High Fantasy
Books in Series: Eon, Eona
Short Description: A girl dresses as a boy and there are dragons. It was a little bit hard to get into the first few chapters, but after that I got hooked. Engaging plot and writing. I highly recommend it to fans of high fantasy.
The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater
Characters: 7/10
Plot: 8/10
Setting: 9/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: Medium Fantasy
Short Description: This book is about racing water horses. I enjoyed it, but not as much as The Raven Cycle (a series by the same author). I found the book interesting, but I can see how other people might find it a bit boring.
The Darkest Part of the Forest by Holly Black
Characters: 8/10
Plot: 8/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: Medium Fantasy
Short Description: This is a fairy book. I haven't read many books with fairies in them, but I really enjoyed this one. It's a fun, quick read and I suggest it for anyone is likes urban fantasy.
The Falling Kingdoms series (6 books, 3 books published) by Morgan Rhodes
Characters: 8/10
Plot: 9/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: High Fantasy
Books in Series: Falling Kingdoms, Rebel Spring, Gathering Darkness (and three unpublished books)
Short Description: This series has been said to be like a young adult version of Game of Thrones. I don't know whether or not that's true, since I haven't read Game of Thrones, but I can tell you that literally everyone except the four main characters dies. Unlike many other epic fantasy series, this one has a fast-paced plot, so it's fairly easy to get into.
The Inheritance Cycle (4 books) by Christopher Paolini
Characters: 7/10
Plot: 8/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 9/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: High Fantasy
Books in Series: Eragon, Eldest, Brisingr, Inheritance
Short Description: This series is really long, and the plot is pretty slow, so if that bothers you, do not read this book. This is a dragon book, which means that it's about dragons (obviously). It's kind of similar to the Lord of the Rings. You know, lots of walking around a kingdom and epic battles.
The Graceling series (3 books) by Kristin Cashore
Characters: 7/10
Plot: 7/10
Setting: 7/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 7/10
Type of Fantasy: High Fantasy
Books in Series: Graceling, Fire, Bitterblue
Short Description: This isn't really a series, it's just three novels that are in the same world. The books do connect to each other, however. I would suggest reading them in publishing order (Graceling, then Fire, then Bitterblue). You might find this series a little boring because the plot is pretty slow. I enjoyed it, but I wouldn't suggest it to those who are new to fantasy.
The Elemental Trilogy (3 books, 2 books published) by Sherry Thomas
Characters: 7/10
Plot: 9/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 9/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: I have no idea
Books in Series: The Burning Sky, The Perilous Sea and a third unpublished book
Short Description:I have no idea what this series is, but I like it. It is basically made up of magic and questions. I don't really know how to explain it. It's unlike anything else I've read. Is it historical fantasy? Parallel universe fantasy? I have no idea. It has romance and a pretty fast plot.
The Grisha Trilogy (3 books) by Leigh Bardugo
Characters: 7/10
Plot: 8/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 7/10
My Overall Rating: 7/10
Type of Fantasy: High Fantasy
Books in Series: Shadow and Bone, Siege and Storm, Ruin and Rising
Short Description: This series is very plot focused. It's pretty fast paced and easy to get into. Magic is a big part of this series. I would recommend it to those who haven't read much high fantasy. It's a pretty good introduction to the genre.
The Seraphina series (1 book published and a sequel coming soon) by Rachel Hartman
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 8/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: High Fantasy
Books in Series: Seraphina, Shadow Scale
Short Description: Dragons. That's all there is to say. Seraphina is great, but I would not recommend it for people who don't read a lot of fantasy. This book is interesting and engaging, but I would only recommend it to those who are big fans of high fantasy or dragons.
The Daughter of Smoke and Bone Trilogy (3 books) by Laini Taylor
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 8/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 9/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: Medium Fantasy
Books in Series: Daughter of Smoke & Bone, Days of Blood & Starlight, Dreams of Gods & Monsters
Short Description: Angels and demons and parallel universes. I really enjoyed this series. Some people say that it's confusing, but I don't agree. The plot is a little slow at times, but it's pretty easy to get into. This series is kind of a bridge between low and high fantasy. I would recommend it for fans of either genre.
Eon series (2 books) by Alison Goodman
Characters: 8/10
Plot: 10/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: High Fantasy
Books in Series: Eon, Eona
Short Description: A girl dresses as a boy and there are dragons. It was a little bit hard to get into the first few chapters, but after that I got hooked. Engaging plot and writing. I highly recommend it to fans of high fantasy.
The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater
Characters: 7/10
Plot: 8/10
Setting: 9/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: Medium Fantasy
Short Description: This book is about racing water horses. I enjoyed it, but not as much as The Raven Cycle (a series by the same author). I found the book interesting, but I can see how other people might find it a bit boring.
The Darkest Part of the Forest by Holly Black
Characters: 8/10
Plot: 8/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: Medium Fantasy
Short Description: This is a fairy book. I haven't read many books with fairies in them, but I really enjoyed this one. It's a fun, quick read and I suggest it for anyone is likes urban fantasy.
Saturday, February 14, 2015
If You Like This Book, You Might Like That Book
I've seen a lot of people doing this around the internet, so I decided to try it out. (Most of these books will be in the fantasy genre because 90% of the books I read are fantasy).
If you like The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, you will probably like Legend by Marie Lu. Both are science fiction trilogies about teenagers who fight against a corrupt government.
If you like the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series by Rick Riordan, then you might like Keys to the Kingdom by Garth Nix. They're both children's fantasy series and they're both really awesome and fast-paced.
If you like the Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini, then you might like the Eon Duology by Alison Goodman. They're both epic fantasy series about dragons and magic stuff.
If you like Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas, then you might like Sabriel by Garth Nix. They are both epic fantasy series that have awesome female leads (I refuse to use the term "badass female characters") and awesome magical stuff.
If you liked Graceling by Kristin Cashore then you might like the Falling Kingdoms series by Morgan Rhodes. Both are epic fantasy series with weird magic and interesting plots.
If you liked the Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare, then you might like the Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer. They are both fantasy (Lunar Chronicles is technically science fiction, but it reads like fantasy) and they are both strongly centered around romance.
If you liked Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi, then you might like the Lorien Legacies by Pittacus Lore. Both books are science fiction bordering on fantasy. They both include a bunch of kids with different random super powers.
If you like The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, you will probably like Legend by Marie Lu. Both are science fiction trilogies about teenagers who fight against a corrupt government.
If you like the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series by Rick Riordan, then you might like Keys to the Kingdom by Garth Nix. They're both children's fantasy series and they're both really awesome and fast-paced.
If you like the Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini, then you might like the Eon Duology by Alison Goodman. They're both epic fantasy series about dragons and magic stuff.
If you like Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas, then you might like Sabriel by Garth Nix. They are both epic fantasy series that have awesome female leads (I refuse to use the term "badass female characters") and awesome magical stuff.
If you liked Graceling by Kristin Cashore then you might like the Falling Kingdoms series by Morgan Rhodes. Both are epic fantasy series with weird magic and interesting plots.
If you liked the Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare, then you might like the Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer. They are both fantasy (Lunar Chronicles is technically science fiction, but it reads like fantasy) and they are both strongly centered around romance.
If you liked Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi, then you might like the Lorien Legacies by Pittacus Lore. Both books are science fiction bordering on fantasy. They both include a bunch of kids with different random super powers.
Monday, February 9, 2015
Series I Have Read (As of February 2015)
Series I Have Completed (not counting novellas or books that are set in the same world but in a different series):
- The Darkest Powers by Kelly Armstrong (3 books)
- The Grisha by Leigh Bardugo (3 books)
- Graceling by Kristin Cashore (3 books)
- The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare (6 books)
- The Infernal Devices by Cassandra Clare (3 books)
- The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (3 books)
- The Maze Runner by James Dashner (4 books)
- The City of Ember by Jeanne Duprau (4 books)
- Legend by Marie Lu (3 books)
- Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi (3 books)
- Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead (6 books)
- Keys to the Kingdom by Garth Nix (7 books)
- The Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini (4 books)
- The Kane Chronicles by Rick Riordan (3 books)
- Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan (5 books)
- The Heroes of Olympus by Rick Riordan (5 books)
- Divergent by Veronica Roth (3 books)
- Harry Potter by J. K. Rowling (7 books)
- Septimus Heap by Angie Sage (7 books)
- Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor (3 books)
- Uglies by Scott Westerfeld (4 books)
- The Secret Series by Pseudonymous Bosch (5 books)
- Eon by Alison Goodman (2 books)
- Magisterium by Cassandra Clare and Holly Black (1 book out so far)
- Princess Academy by Shannon Hale (2 books out so far)
- Seraphina by Rachel Hartman (1 book out so far)
- The Lorien Legacies by Pittacus Lore (5 books out so far)
- The Young Elites by Marie Lu (1 book out so far)
- Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas (3 books out so far)
- Bloodlines by Richelle Mead (5 books out so far)
- The Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer (3 books out so far)
- The Old Kingdom by Garth Nix (4 books out so far)
- Snow like Ashes by Sara Raasch (1 book out so far)
- Falling Kingdoms by Morgan Rhodes (3 books out so far)
- The Raven Cycle by Maggie Stiefvater (3 books out so far)
- The Elemental Trilogy by Sherry Thomas (2 books out so far)
- The 5th Wave by Rick Yancy (2 books so far)
- To all the Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han (1 book so far)
- The Winner's Curse by Marie Rutkoski
- The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams (5 books, I've read the first 3)
- Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card (I've read 4 books and there are, like, 20 billion
- The Selection by Kiera Cass (3 books out so far, I've read 2)
- Young Wizards by Dianne Duanne (I've read 1 book and I have no clue how many there are)
- Fablehaven by Brandon Mull (5 books, I've read the first 2)
- The False Prince by Jennifer Nielsen (3 books, I've read 2)
- Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs (2 books out so far, I've read 1)
- Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi (3 books, I've read 1)
- The Lord of the Rings (I've read LOTR and the Hobbit, but not anything else in this series)
- Dustlands by Moira Young (3 books, I've read 2)
- A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle (I've read 1 book and there are 5 total)
- The Giver by Lois Lowry (I've read 1 and there are 4 total)
- Ash by Malinda Lo (I've read 1 of 2 books)
- Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle (I've read 1 of a million)
- Hercule Poirot by Agatha Christie (I've read 5 of a million)
- I am the Messenger by Markus Zusak
- The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
- The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
- Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick
- Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine
- Book of a Thousand Days by Shannon Hale
- An Abundance of Katherines by John Green
- The Fault in our Stars by John Green
- Paper Towns by John Green
- Looking for Alaska by John Green
- Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech
- And the There were None by Agatha Christie
- The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
- We Were Liars by E. Lockhart\
- The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater
Wednesday, February 4, 2015
The Fantasy Book Post Part 1
Fantasy is by far my favourite genre for books. More than half of the books I read are fantasy. This post is kind of like a guide to fantasy books either for someone who hasn't read much fantasy or for someone who wants to find some fantasy recommendations. Before I start, I should tell you a bit about fantasy and the different kinds of fantasy. First of all, here is my personal definition of a fantasy book:
A fantasy book is a book in which the events could not happen in our actual universe. Basically, if things in the book defy the laws of physics, biology or any other kind of science, it's fantasy. (Of course, there are some books that do not clearly fall into either the category of fantasy or the category of "not fantasy". Many science fiction books might go against scientific laws. As with all definitions, my definition is not always entirely accurate.)
Reading fantasy is an entirely different experience from reading any other genre. When reading fantasy, you have to ignore logic. Fantasy is not supposed to make sense. This is, in my opinion, the principle difference between fantasy and science fiction. A science fiction book is a prediction of the future. A science fiction book must make sense. Fantasy has no rules. It isn't supposed to make sense.
A lot of people find it odd that fantasy is my favourite genre. I am a very logical person. I do not like it when things in life do not make sense. But here's a secret. Fiction is not real. Many people who enjoy reading (or watching movies, or consuming any type of fiction) think of fiction as real. But this is not the point. of fiction. (There are actually many points to fiction. My personal favourites are: to entertain and to make a person reconsider their opinions on life, humanity and many other topics. Thinking of fiction as a reality is not one of the points of fiction, or at least, it isn't in my opinion.)
The reason that fantasy is my favourite genre is because, to me, it symbolizes freedom of thought. They thoughts in my head do not make sense, and they aren't supposed to. I can think whatever I want to. Fiction is a type of thought, in my opinion. Many times, thoughts make sense (or at least partial sense). Many books are like this too, such as contemporary, historical or science fiction books. But, sometimes, I don't want my thoughts to make sense. I want to have the freedom to do whatever the hell I want in my own mind. Fantasy books are like those thoughts that don't make sense. And they aren't supposed to make sense.
Some people do not like fantasy. If you are one of those people.... WHY? I mean, that's great. It's all personal preference. You can like whatever you want. But, seriously, how can you not like fantasy???
Fantasy can (in my opinion) be split into three categories.
What is that you say? You are tired of hearing me ramble about fantasy and my personal thoughts on it and you want to get on to the book recommendations? Fine. Here you go. I have created a list of some of the fantasy books/series that I enjoyed. For each book recommendation, I have included a (very short) description of the book, a rating in five different categories (characters, plot, setting, writing and overall) and my opinion on which fantasy category it fits into (high, medium or low fantasy).
Harry Potter series (7 books) by J. K. Rowling
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
Setting: 10/10
Writing: 10/10
My Overall Rating: 10/10
Type of Fantasy: Low Fantasy
Books in Series: Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Harry potter and the Half Blood Prince, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
Short Description: You have obviously read this series, but I have to include it on this list anyway. In case you have not read it (seriously, what are you doing with your life?), it's about a boy named Harry Potter who find out he's a wizard and goes to a school where he learns magic.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians series (5 books) by Rick Riordan
Characters: 8/10
Plot: 9/10
Setting: 9/10
Writing: 7/10
My Overall Rating: 7/10
Type of Fantasy: Low/Medium Fantasy
Books in Series:The Lightning Thief, The Sea of Monsters, The Titan's Curse, The Battle of the Labyrinth, The Last Olympian
Short Description: Percy Jackson is a children's series, but even if you are no longer a child you can still enjoy it. Basically, it's all about Greek mythology, only it's set in the modern world. It's about a boy named Percy Jackson who finds out he's a Demigod and the adventures he has with his friends. Read if you like funny books with lots of action or are interested in Greek mythology.
The Heroes of Olympus series (5 books) by Rick Riordan)
Characters: 8/10
Plot: 9/10
Setting: 9/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: Low/Medium Fantasy
Books in Series: The Lost Hero, The Son of Neptune, The Mark of Athena, The House of Hades, The Blood of Olympus
Short Description: This series is a sequel series to Percy Jackson. I suggest that you read Percy Jackson before starting this series. Heroes of Olympus includes more Greek mythology as well as more demigod main characters and crazy adventures.
The Kane Chronicles (3 books) by Rick Riordan
Characters: 8/10
Plot: 9/10
Setting: 9/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: Low/Medium Fantasy
Books in Series: The Red Pyramid, The Throne of Fire, The Serpent's Shadow
Short Description: This series is fairly similar to the Percy Jackson series, except it's all about Egyptian mythology in the modern world instead of Greek mythology. It's about a brother and sister named Sadie and Carter Kane who have lots of adventures and stuff. A lot of people don't like it as much as the Percy Jackson series, but I personally liked it more.
The Raven Cycle (4 books) by Maggie Stiefvater
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 8/10
Setting: 9/10
Writing:10/10
My Overall Rating: 10/10
Type of Fantasy: Low Fantasy
Books in Series: The Raven Boys, The Dream Thieves, Blue Lily Lily Blue (and one untitled, unpublished book coming out this year)
Short Description: In this book series, a group of five teens search for a Welsh king who is apparently asleep underneath the ground. This is one of my favourite series of all time, but it's kind of series that is not for everyone. You may love it or you may hate it. This series is really weird and a bit confusing at times. I love that sort of thing, but if you don't, this series probably isn't for you.
Throne of Glass series (6 books, 3 books published and a prequel) by Sarah J. Maas
Characters: 8/10
Plot: 9/10
Setting: 10/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 9/10
Type of Fantasy: High Fantasy
Books in Series: The Assassin's Blade (prequel), Throne of Glass, Crown of Midnight, Heir of Fire (and three untitled, unpublished books)
Short Description: Celaena Sardothien is an assassin who is fighting in a competition to win her freedom and become the king's champion. They first book in the series isn't that great, but the second two are much better (especially the third). If you like badass female characters and engaging plots, this series is for you.
The Old Kingdom series (4 books published, probably more soon) by Garth Nix
Characters: 7/10
Plot: 8/10
Setting: 10/10
Writing: 9/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: High Fantasy (Though you could technically argue that it's Middle Fantasy)
Books in Series: Sabriel, Lirael, Abhorsen, Clariel (prequel)
Short Description: This series is all about necromancers and magic and stuff. The books can be pretty long and a little slow, but I really enjoyed it. By the way, I strongly suggest that you read Sabriel, Lirael and Abhorsen before Clariel.
Keys to the Kingdom series (7 books) by Garth Nix
Characters: 7/10
Plot: 9/10
Setting: 9/10
Writing: 9/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: Medium Fantasy
Books in Series: Mister Monday, Grim Tuesday, Drowned Wednesday, Sir Thursday, Lady Friday, Superior Saturday, Lord Sunday
Short Description: This series is weird. Really weird. It's pretty much impossible to describe. It is technically a children's series, but I love it anyway. Do not read if you can't handle weirdness.
The Young Elites series (3 books, 1 book published) by Marie Lu
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 8/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: High Fantasy
Books in Series: The Young Elites, The Rose Society (not out yet), a third untitled unpublished book
Short Description: The Young Elites is about a girl who survived a plague. The plague has given her scars and also magical power. There are lots of other kids who survived the plague who have magical powers too. Read if you like evil main characters.
The Mortal Instruments series (6 books) by Cassandra Clare
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 9/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: Low/Medium Fantasy
Books in Series: City of Bones, City of Ashes, City of Glass, City of Fallen Angels, City of Lost Souls, City of Heavenly Fire
Short Description: The Mortal Instruments is about a race of people called Shadowhunters who fight demons and an evil shadowhunter who wants to take over the world. Read if you like romance. I'm personally not a big fan of romance, but I still enjoyed this series.
The Infernal Devices series (3 books) by Cassandra Clare
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 9/10
My Overall Rating: 9/10
Type of Fantasy: Low/Medium Fantasy
Books in Series: Clockwork Angel, Clockwork Prince, Clockwork Princess
Short Description: This series is a prequel series to The Mortal Instruments. It's set in London a long time ago, so it's historical fantasy. You can read this series either before or after the Mortal Instruments. If you started reading the Mortal Instruments and didn't like it, give this series a try. Pretty much everyone agrees that it's way better.
The Magisterium series (5 books, 1 book published) by Cassandra Clare and Holly Black
Characters: 7/10
Plot: 8/10
Setting: 7/10
Writing: 7/10
My Overall Rating: 7/10
Type of Fantasy: Low Fantasy
Books in Series: The Iron Trial (and four more books that haven't been published yet)
Short Description: This is a children's series, but older people (like me) can like it too. There's only one book out so far, but I really enjoyed that one book. The series is similar to Harry Potter, kind of, so if you liked that I suggest you read this.
A fantasy book is a book in which the events could not happen in our actual universe. Basically, if things in the book defy the laws of physics, biology or any other kind of science, it's fantasy. (Of course, there are some books that do not clearly fall into either the category of fantasy or the category of "not fantasy". Many science fiction books might go against scientific laws. As with all definitions, my definition is not always entirely accurate.)
Reading fantasy is an entirely different experience from reading any other genre. When reading fantasy, you have to ignore logic. Fantasy is not supposed to make sense. This is, in my opinion, the principle difference between fantasy and science fiction. A science fiction book is a prediction of the future. A science fiction book must make sense. Fantasy has no rules. It isn't supposed to make sense.
A lot of people find it odd that fantasy is my favourite genre. I am a very logical person. I do not like it when things in life do not make sense. But here's a secret. Fiction is not real. Many people who enjoy reading (or watching movies, or consuming any type of fiction) think of fiction as real. But this is not the point. of fiction. (There are actually many points to fiction. My personal favourites are: to entertain and to make a person reconsider their opinions on life, humanity and many other topics. Thinking of fiction as a reality is not one of the points of fiction, or at least, it isn't in my opinion.)
The reason that fantasy is my favourite genre is because, to me, it symbolizes freedom of thought. They thoughts in my head do not make sense, and they aren't supposed to. I can think whatever I want to. Fiction is a type of thought, in my opinion. Many times, thoughts make sense (or at least partial sense). Many books are like this too, such as contemporary, historical or science fiction books. But, sometimes, I don't want my thoughts to make sense. I want to have the freedom to do whatever the hell I want in my own mind. Fantasy books are like those thoughts that don't make sense. And they aren't supposed to make sense.
Some people do not like fantasy. If you are one of those people.... WHY? I mean, that's great. It's all personal preference. You can like whatever you want. But, seriously, how can you not like fantasy???
Fantasy can (in my opinion) be split into three categories.
- High Fantasy (Also called epic fantasy because it's epic): Set in a completely different universe from our own. No connection to our universe at all.
- Low Fantasy (Also called urban fantasy): Set entirely in our universe, except it is our universe with fantastical elements added. Disregarding scientific laws (which you have to do in order to read fantasy), the stories in low fantasy books could technically have happened in our world. What I mean to say is, there is nothing in the fantasy book that goes against something in our universe. If, in a fantasy book, France does not exist, then it is not a low fantasy book.
- Medium Fantasy: In between low and high fantasy. This is not a very well defined category. Sometimes a middle fantasy book is set in a universe that resembles our own, but has a few elements that are obviously different (I'll use the example of France not existing again). A middle fantasy book could also be set partially in our universe and partially in another.
What is that you say? You are tired of hearing me ramble about fantasy and my personal thoughts on it and you want to get on to the book recommendations? Fine. Here you go. I have created a list of some of the fantasy books/series that I enjoyed. For each book recommendation, I have included a (very short) description of the book, a rating in five different categories (characters, plot, setting, writing and overall) and my opinion on which fantasy category it fits into (high, medium or low fantasy).
Harry Potter series (7 books) by J. K. Rowling
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
Setting: 10/10
Writing: 10/10
My Overall Rating: 10/10
Type of Fantasy: Low Fantasy
Books in Series: Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Harry potter and the Half Blood Prince, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
Short Description: You have obviously read this series, but I have to include it on this list anyway. In case you have not read it (seriously, what are you doing with your life?), it's about a boy named Harry Potter who find out he's a wizard and goes to a school where he learns magic.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians series (5 books) by Rick Riordan
Characters: 8/10
Plot: 9/10
Setting: 9/10
Writing: 7/10
My Overall Rating: 7/10
Type of Fantasy: Low/Medium Fantasy
Books in Series:The Lightning Thief, The Sea of Monsters, The Titan's Curse, The Battle of the Labyrinth, The Last Olympian
Short Description: Percy Jackson is a children's series, but even if you are no longer a child you can still enjoy it. Basically, it's all about Greek mythology, only it's set in the modern world. It's about a boy named Percy Jackson who finds out he's a Demigod and the adventures he has with his friends. Read if you like funny books with lots of action or are interested in Greek mythology.
The Heroes of Olympus series (5 books) by Rick Riordan)
Characters: 8/10
Plot: 9/10
Setting: 9/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: Low/Medium Fantasy
Books in Series: The Lost Hero, The Son of Neptune, The Mark of Athena, The House of Hades, The Blood of Olympus
Short Description: This series is a sequel series to Percy Jackson. I suggest that you read Percy Jackson before starting this series. Heroes of Olympus includes more Greek mythology as well as more demigod main characters and crazy adventures.
The Kane Chronicles (3 books) by Rick Riordan
Characters: 8/10
Plot: 9/10
Setting: 9/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: Low/Medium Fantasy
Books in Series: The Red Pyramid, The Throne of Fire, The Serpent's Shadow
Short Description: This series is fairly similar to the Percy Jackson series, except it's all about Egyptian mythology in the modern world instead of Greek mythology. It's about a brother and sister named Sadie and Carter Kane who have lots of adventures and stuff. A lot of people don't like it as much as the Percy Jackson series, but I personally liked it more.
The Raven Cycle (4 books) by Maggie Stiefvater
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 8/10
Setting: 9/10
Writing:10/10
My Overall Rating: 10/10
Type of Fantasy: Low Fantasy
Books in Series: The Raven Boys, The Dream Thieves, Blue Lily Lily Blue (and one untitled, unpublished book coming out this year)
Short Description: In this book series, a group of five teens search for a Welsh king who is apparently asleep underneath the ground. This is one of my favourite series of all time, but it's kind of series that is not for everyone. You may love it or you may hate it. This series is really weird and a bit confusing at times. I love that sort of thing, but if you don't, this series probably isn't for you.
Throne of Glass series (6 books, 3 books published and a prequel) by Sarah J. Maas
Characters: 8/10
Plot: 9/10
Setting: 10/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 9/10
Type of Fantasy: High Fantasy
Books in Series: The Assassin's Blade (prequel), Throne of Glass, Crown of Midnight, Heir of Fire (and three untitled, unpublished books)
Short Description: Celaena Sardothien is an assassin who is fighting in a competition to win her freedom and become the king's champion. They first book in the series isn't that great, but the second two are much better (especially the third). If you like badass female characters and engaging plots, this series is for you.
The Old Kingdom series (4 books published, probably more soon) by Garth Nix
Characters: 7/10
Plot: 8/10
Setting: 10/10
Writing: 9/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: High Fantasy (Though you could technically argue that it's Middle Fantasy)
Books in Series: Sabriel, Lirael, Abhorsen, Clariel (prequel)
Short Description: This series is all about necromancers and magic and stuff. The books can be pretty long and a little slow, but I really enjoyed it. By the way, I strongly suggest that you read Sabriel, Lirael and Abhorsen before Clariel.
Keys to the Kingdom series (7 books) by Garth Nix
Characters: 7/10
Plot: 9/10
Setting: 9/10
Writing: 9/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: Medium Fantasy
Books in Series: Mister Monday, Grim Tuesday, Drowned Wednesday, Sir Thursday, Lady Friday, Superior Saturday, Lord Sunday
Short Description: This series is weird. Really weird. It's pretty much impossible to describe. It is technically a children's series, but I love it anyway. Do not read if you can't handle weirdness.
The Young Elites series (3 books, 1 book published) by Marie Lu
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 8/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: High Fantasy
Books in Series: The Young Elites, The Rose Society (not out yet), a third untitled unpublished book
Short Description: The Young Elites is about a girl who survived a plague. The plague has given her scars and also magical power. There are lots of other kids who survived the plague who have magical powers too. Read if you like evil main characters.
The Mortal Instruments series (6 books) by Cassandra Clare
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 9/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 8/10
My Overall Rating: 8/10
Type of Fantasy: Low/Medium Fantasy
Books in Series: City of Bones, City of Ashes, City of Glass, City of Fallen Angels, City of Lost Souls, City of Heavenly Fire
Short Description: The Mortal Instruments is about a race of people called Shadowhunters who fight demons and an evil shadowhunter who wants to take over the world. Read if you like romance. I'm personally not a big fan of romance, but I still enjoyed this series.
The Infernal Devices series (3 books) by Cassandra Clare
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
Setting: 8/10
Writing: 9/10
My Overall Rating: 9/10
Type of Fantasy: Low/Medium Fantasy
Books in Series: Clockwork Angel, Clockwork Prince, Clockwork Princess
Short Description: This series is a prequel series to The Mortal Instruments. It's set in London a long time ago, so it's historical fantasy. You can read this series either before or after the Mortal Instruments. If you started reading the Mortal Instruments and didn't like it, give this series a try. Pretty much everyone agrees that it's way better.
The Magisterium series (5 books, 1 book published) by Cassandra Clare and Holly Black
Characters: 7/10
Plot: 8/10
Setting: 7/10
Writing: 7/10
My Overall Rating: 7/10
Type of Fantasy: Low Fantasy
Books in Series: The Iron Trial (and four more books that haven't been published yet)
Short Description: This is a children's series, but older people (like me) can like it too. There's only one book out so far, but I really enjoyed that one book. The series is similar to Harry Potter, kind of, so if you liked that I suggest you read this.
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