Fantasy can feel like a huge genre to step into. There are invented worlds, complicated maps, magical systems, mythical creatures and series that seem to have a thousand pages before you even get to the end of book one. But fantasy doesn’t have to be intimidating. There are plenty of ways to find your way in, even if you’ve never picked up a fantasy novel before.
The trick is to start with the kind of story you already enjoy, then look for a little magic around the edges.
First, what kind of fantasy sounds good to you?
Fantasy covers a lot of ground. You don’t need to start with a sprawling epic or learn the names of six kingdoms. Think about the stories you usually reach for and use those preferences as your starting point.
Cosy fantasy: a little magic and a lot of atmosphere
If you love comforting settings, found family, charming characters and stories that feel like settling into your favourite chair, cosy fantasy could be for you. These books often focus on everyday life in a magical world, rather than a battle to save the entire universe. They can be a lovely introduction if you want fantasy with warmth and heart.
Contemporary or urban fantasy: magic closer to home
Prefer stories set in a recognisable world? Contemporary fantasy brings magic into modern life. Witches, hidden supernatural communities or secret magical organisations might exist just beyond ordinary sight. The familiar setting can make it easier to settle into the story while still giving you something extraordinary to discover.
Epic fantasy: big worlds and sweeping adventures
If you enjoy detailed worlds, political intrigue, quests, battles and a large cast of characters, epic fantasy might be your thing. These stories can ask a little more of you at the beginning, especially when there are lots of names and places to remember. Take your time: you don’t have to memorise every detail on the first page.
Fantasy with romance, mystery or horror
You can also use another favourite genre as your gateway. Fantasy romance combines magical settings with relationship-driven stories; fantasy mysteries add puzzles and secrets; and darker fantasy can bring in gothic atmosphere, monsters or horror. If you already know what you like, look for fantasy that shares those ingredients.
Five tips for choosing your first fantasy read
- Start with your usual tastes. Love character-driven stories? Look for fantasy that puts relationships and personal journeys at its heart.
- Don’t worry about the map. Maps and glossaries are there to help, not homework you must complete before reading.
- Check the length and series commitment. A standalone novel can feel less daunting than beginning a ten-book series.
- Read a sample. A few pages can tell you whether the writing style, pacing and world feel right for you.
- Give yourself permission to switch. If one fantasy book doesn’t work for you, it doesn’t mean the whole genre is wrong for you.
You don’t need to understand everything straight away
One of the lovely things about fantasy is the feeling of discovering a world as you read. You might not understand every magical rule or political alliance immediately, and that’s fine. Often, the important details become clearer as the story unfolds.
And remember that fantasy doesn’t have to be all dragons, battles and ancient prophecies. It can be funny, gentle, romantic, unsettling, hopeful or deeply moving. There’s room for all kinds of readers in the genre.
Find your next fantasy read
If you’re ready to explore, head over to the Fantasy section of Between the Pages for more reading inspiration and reviews. You can also browse the wider Book Reviews archive to find your next read by mood or genre.
Over to you: If you’re a fantasy reader, what book would you recommend to someone starting out? And if you’re new to the genre, what kind of fantasy sounds most appealing to you?
Happy reading! 📚
