Your Guide to the Fantasy Genre

by Jessica Jones

Fantasy novels have been popular for centuries, and there are so many different types to choose from! Whether you're looking for epic quests, magical realism, or even just a touch of fantasy in a contemporary setting, there's a book out there for everyone. Here are some of the different types of fantasy novels that you might want to check out...

Epic Fantasy and High Fantasy are two popular sub-genres of the larger fantasy genre, and while they share some similarities, there are also distinct differences between the two.

Epic Fantasy is known for its sprawling narratives, usually featuring multiple plotlines, numerous characters, and vast, detailed world-building. Often set in a secondary world that is completely invented by the author, epic fantasy novels typically involve epic quests, battles between good and evil, and the fate of the world or universe hanging in the balance. Examples of epic fantasy include J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy and George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" series.

On the other hand, High Fantasy is typically characterized by its focus on magic and mythical creatures. High fantasy stories take place in a world separate from our own and often involve characters such as elves, dwarves, dragons, and other fantastical beings. While high fantasy may still involve an epic quest or battle, the focus is more on the magical elements of the story and less on the intricate plotlines and world-building found in epic fantasy. Examples of high fantasy include J.K. Rowling's "Harry Potter" series and Terry Brooks' "Shannara" series.

One way to distinguish between the two sub-genres is to consider the scale of the story. Epic fantasy tends to be grander in scale, with the fate of entire nations or worlds at stake, while high fantasy often focuses on more personal stories involving individual characters or small groups.

Another difference between the two sub-genres is the level of realism. Epic fantasy often attempts to create a fully-realized world that feels as though it could exist, with detailed cultures, languages, and histories. High fantasy, on the other hand, often relies more heavily on the fantastical elements of the story and may not be as concerned with the inner workings of the world in which it takes place.

Overall, while epic fantasy and high fantasy share many similarities, including their focus on magic and fantastical elements, their scope and level of realism set them apart. Both sub-genres have produced some of the most beloved and influential works of fantasy literature and offer something for readers of all ages and interests.

Urban Fantasy

If you're looking for a fantasy novel that's set in our world but with a twist, urban fantasy might be just what you need. These books take place in contemporary settings, often in cities, and involve supernatural elements. Think vampires, werewolves, and witches living among humans. Jayne Thorne, CIA Librarian series by Joss Walker & R.L. Perez is a great example of urban fantasy, as are the Kate Daniels series by Ilona Andrews and the Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs. These books often blend elements of mystery and romance with fantasy elements, making for a thrilling and entertaining read.

Magical Realism

Magical realism is a genre that blurs the line between fantasy and reality. These books are set in the real world but with magical or supernatural elements that are presented as a normal part of everyday life. One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez is a classic example of magical realism, as is The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern and The Strange and Beautiful Sorrows of Ava Lavender by Leslye Walton. These books often have a dreamlike quality to them, with beautiful and poetic prose that draws the reader into the story.

Fairy Tale Retellings

Fairy tale retellings are a popular subgenre of fantasy, taking classic stories and putting a new spin on them. These books often reimagine the original tale, adding new characters and storylines to create a fresh and exciting take on a familiar story. Some great examples of fairy tale retellings include Cinder by Marissa Meyer, a futuristic retelling of Cinderella; Spinning Silver by Naomi Novik, a retelling of Rumpelstiltskin set in a fantasy world; and Uprooted by Naomi Novik, a retelling of Beauty and the Beast set in a magical forest. These books often have a nostalgic feel to them, reminding readers of the beloved stories from their childhood while still offering something new.

Dark Fantasy

Dark fantasy novels are often considered a subgenre of both horror and fantasy, combining elements of both. They often feature supernatural or magical elements but with a much darker, grittier tone. These books often feature horror themes such as death, violence, and psychological trauma. They can be quite intense but are also extremely rewarding reads. Examples of dark fantasy include Neil Gaiman's "The Sandman" series and H.P. Lovecraft's "Cthulhu Mythos" stories.

Historical Fantasy

Historical fantasy novels combine elements of fantasy with historical settings, often set in a specific period of history. These books feature magical or supernatural elements that blend seamlessly with real-world events and characters. Often, historical fantasy novels take a unique spin on real events or figures, creating an alternate history. Examples of historical fantasy include Susanna Clarke's "Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell" and Naomi Novik's "Temeraire" series.

In closing, fantasy is a vast and varied genre with many different subgenres and styles. Whether you prefer epic battles, urban settings, magical creatures, or alternate histories, there is a fantasy novel out there for you. Exploring different kinds of fantasy can be a fun and exciting way to find new authors and stories to love. So, if you're a fan of the fantastical, be sure to check out these different subgenres and find your next favorite read.

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