Contemporary Fantasy Blog
This blog offers reader’s guides, book lists, and reviews for fans of contemporary fantasy—covering everything from magical realism to urban fantasy and the spaces in between.
The Best Fantasy Books by Subgenre
Best fantasy books by subgenre and why each stands at the top of its category. Browse epic to urban and beyond.
LitRPG: The Genre Where Books Level Up Like Video Games
LitRPG blends fiction with game mechanics. Learn what defines the genre, how it compares to others, and which books are worth your time.
What to Expect as a New Fantasy Reader (and Where to Begin)
New to fantasy books? Learn what to expect, how the genre works, key subgenres, and the best beginner-friendly titles to start your journey.
3 Must-Read Fantasy Trilogies
Three must-read fantasy trilogies that keep you turning pages at 2 a.m.—cosmic horror, deep character drama, and revolutionary epic fantasy.
Where Ghost Stories Come From
The origins of ghost stories, from ancient myth to modern fantasy, plus the essential books that still define haunting, memory, and the undead.
The Five Fantasy Villains That Define Their Worlds
A critical look at five fantasy villains who shape their worlds—from Sauron to the Dark One—and why their power goes beyond the hero’s journey.
The 9 Elements of an Unforgettable Magic System in Fantasy Fiction
Discover the nine elements that make fantasy magic systems unforgettable, with examples from top books and iconic worlds.
The Most Popular Magic Systems in Fantasy Fiction
Discover the most popular magic systems in fantasy fiction, from hard rules to mythic powers, and why readers are drawn to them.
The Bloodlines and Hidden Heirs Trope
Discover why fantasy stories love hidden heirs and secret bloodlines—from Aragorn to Arthur, Luke Skywalker, and Harry Potter.
Where the Dragon Trope in Fantasy Really Comes From
Explore the origins of dragons in fantasy—from ancient serpents to Smaug—and why these iconic creatures still captivate readers today.
The Power Object: Why Magical Artifacts Captivate Fantasy Fans
Discover why magical artifacts like rings, swords, and amulets play such a powerful role in fantasy stories.
Heroes Who Didn’t Want the Job: The Reluctant Hero Trope, Unpacked
Explore the reluctant hero trope—from Bilbo to Neo—and why stories of hesitation, doubt, and courage still resonate with readers today.