When it comes to fantasy, readers of V.E. Schwab know she’s a master of creating magical worlds. The captivating storylines, compelling characters and sheer adventure in her books are perfect examples of fantasy literature and exemplifies why the A Darker Shade of Magic author is a bestselling writer. These six books all hold the same spellbinding ability to carry you away to lands and worlds of striking awe.

Don’t forget to pick up V.E. Schwab’s new book, Vengeful, now!

Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman

This dark tale by Gaiman reveals a sinister underworld of London full of monsters, magic and treachery. It takes you through a series of mysterious instances, and leaves you looking at your life wondering what could I be missing?

The City of Brass by S.A. Chakraborty

From the first page, you’ll be swept up in the air of possibility and mysterious-intrigue in The City of Brass. This Middle Eastern novel is reminiscent of Aladdin but is marked by even more magic and adventure as it showcases the fantastical nature of Islamic culture through the eyes of a tough-as-nails heroine and a young man on his journey to self-realization.

The Broken Earth Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin

Any novel by Jemisin is sure to satisfy a need for fantasy, but The Broken Earth Trilogy is arguably her best. In this world, Jemisin combines sci-fi with fantasy, mystery with magic, and typical problems with worldwide catastrophes. It’s sure to leave you hanging on each word from the beginning to end.

Daughter of Smoke and Bone Trilogy by Laini Taylor

Taylor creates a world as outlandish as it is mesmerizing. Karou, a 17-year-old girl with bright blue hair, travels the world on errands for the strange creatures that have raised her. But where there is magic there is always danger, and Karou finds herself on a path that will answer questions about her origin and put her in the midst of an ancient battle that threatens everything she knows.

Deathless by Catherynne M. Valente

Ancient myths are interesting, but Valente’s take on Koschei (the great villain of numerous fairy tales) brings Russian folklore into a dazzling light. The masterful blend of history with fantasy shepherds in a new layer of enchantment to an already riveting nation.

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

This middle-grade novel is ageless. A boy grows up in a graveyard, raised by ghosts, and is haunted by the questions his ghostly family will not answer. It’s a tale of childhood, of growing up, of friendship, and, naturally, of danger.

(Feature image courtesy of The Verge; Designed by She Reads)