Great Fantasy Novels to Escape With
By: Hidden Gems on July 16, 2024
Whenever something is going on in your real life that you want to escape from, diving into a good book is one of the best ways to get away from it all. Even if your physical body remains where it is, an engaging story can at least transport your mind to a different, and hopefully better, place. Great fantasy novels are perfect for this, as they usually bring you into another world completely! So if you’re looking for one of these to escape with, here are a few that were recently loved by our Hidden Gems ARC readers.
Hail Infernal World by Rick Ferguson
With a 4.8 star average, Hail Infernal World by Rick Ferguson is a hidden gem to add to your TBR list! The first book of The Hellfire Saga, this dark fantasy novel weaves together historical fiction to create the backdrop for a dark fantasy tale which takes place amongst the flames of hell.
Jeff describes in his five star Amazon review why you should add this to your TBR list, “This book was an unexpected winner for me…I found the characters to be engaging, the action sequences frequent and fun, and the plot to be full of ups and downs from start to end…Explaining more would risk a spoiler, so I’ll leave it at this – if you like complex story arcs in fascinating settings with interesting characters, this is a book for you. I’m looking forward to future installments.”
“The author weaves a visual, rich tapestry in this epic adventure. I really enjoyed the characters and how they are woven together to create a band of likeable misfits. As another reviewer mentioned, this would make a terrific movie! There is a bit of a cliffhanger ending, so I’m looking forward to the next book…” Rebecca S. writes in her five star Amazon review.”
Interview with Death by V. K. Pasanen
With a 4.7 star average, Interview with Death is the first in the three book Tales from the Afterworld series.
“This is a fascinating exploration of the afterlife through the eyes of its compelling main character. The narrative is engaging and thought-provoking, offering readers a unique perspective on life after death. Pasanen’s writing is clear and captivating, making it easy to get lost in the story. This book is a must-read for those interested in the mysteries of the afterworld. I could not put this book down and really enjoyed it,” Butterflywings09 raves in their five star Amazon review.
Pax concurs in their five star Amazon review, “…The author explores themes of loss, guilt, redemption, and, of course, the ultimate question of what lies beyond death. The book’s unique perspective on the Grim Reaper as a benevolent guide rather than a fearsome entity offers a refreshing take on a timeless subject…”
Ravens by A. L. Hawke
With a 4.6 star average on Amazon, Ravens is the fifth book in The Hawthorne University Witch series. Reviewers mention that this can be read as a standalone story, but the context of the previous installments is helpful. Finally, readers beware – there is a content warning for profanity, sex, adult situations and, of course, witchcraft.
“…Cadence Hawthorne returns in this hot witchy paranormal romance. Amazing world building that is detailed and imaginable. Fascinating characters that are well developed and diverse. Twists and unexpected turns keep you reading..” Jennifer writes in her five star Amazon review.
Debbie raves in her five star Amazon review, “Cadence Hawthorne Is back in book five and boy is it good! A wonderfully well written addition brimming with twists and turns, this has you hooked from start to finish as darkness falls upon the university. This is one of those series that will never get dull, never get boring and just gets better and better with each book!”
Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse by Jay Veloso Batista
With a 4.5 star average, Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse is the first book in the Forerunner series by Jay Veloso Batista. This series is for fans of Norse mythology, expansive fantasy worlds, and character driven fantasy.
Colossus explains in their five star Amazon review, “…Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse is an outstanding blend of historical fiction and fantasy that immerses readers in the Viking era of 9th-century England. This series opener is a masterful tale of adventure, familial loyalty, and supernatural intrigue, centered around the young hero Finn. Initially a typical boy of his clan, Finn’s transformation into a part-ghostly vardoger sets off an epic journey of self-discovery and bravery. Batista’s meticulous research brings the Viking world to life with vivid descriptions and authentic cultural details, while the engaging plot keeps readers hooked with its mix of action, myth, and legend. The emotional depth of Finn’s character, combined with the rich, immersive setting and well-drawn supporting characters, makes for a highly satisfying read. Fans of high fantasy and historical adventures will find this a riveting and highly recommended addition to their collection.”
“This book is a testament to the power of storytelling. The author’s ability to create a vivid, immersive world filled with memorable characters and gripping plotlines is truly remarkable. The supernatural elements are woven seamlessly into the historical context, enhancing rather than overshadowing the story. Finn’s evolution as a character is compelling, and his adventures are both entertaining and emotionally resonant. This is a must-read for anyone who appreciates well crafted fantasy,” Jerry concurs in his five star Amazon review.
Hybrid Magic by Ava Richardson
With a 4.6 star average, Hybrid Magic is the first installment in the Destia’s Dragon Shifter War series, a YA fantasy series.
Kimberly explains in her five star Amazon review, “This story caught my attention and I couldn’t read the pages fast enough. The characters are awesome, the story line fascinating, tons of action, magic and dragons! Winnie, part of a Destian delegation, invited by Fantis, to solve and get rid of the dark magic rot left by the Venistrare, isn’t safe. A group of Fantis terrorists are determined to use and continue with the Venistrare’s dark magic, whatever it takes. Will the delegates survive? This action-packed book is filled with danger, dragons, magic, delegates, terrorists, spells, potions, raiders, Fantis, mages, dark magic, abducted, Kygo, bonding, prison and twists and turns!”
“Well the start of another winning and imaginative series. The world building is as usual fantastic. The main characters both good and evil, are well developed. The plot moves quickly with surprising and entertaining twists and the ending (of course) leaves me wanting the next volume…” Tony V. writes in his five star Amazon review.
Hidden Gems readers got to read these fantasy tales first, so if you want more fantastic adventures or clues to seek, sign up today! Subscribers to Hidden Gems receive invitations to read books like these – plus other titles from any of up to 15 other genres – for free. Authors send these out in the hopes that the readers will write an honest review once they’re done.
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