14 Best and Most Popular Fantasy Books in India for Reading [August, 2024]

As the best fantasy novels offer profound escapism through immersive worlds, complex conflicts and emotionally resonant themes, fantasy books remain eternally popular in India where worlds fusing magic alongside Indian culture, history and mythology additionally allow uniquely cultural reading adventures. From sweeping Indian epic fantasies to darker introspective morality tales, below we analyze the best fantasy books in India across subgenres that demonstrate exemplary imagination and storytelling.

1. Master of Furies

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Description

Master of Furies is the epic conclusion to the acclaimed King of Ashes fantasy series by Sunday Times bestselling author Raymond E. Feist. This highly anticipated finale has been described as a must-read fantasy book of 2023.

Key Features

• Concludes the iconic 30+ book Riftwar Cycle saga which has sold over 15 million copies globally
• Features the demon Gryffud searching for vicious vengeance
• Shows Tomas Megarson resisting the advance of the mysterious Dark Queen
• Depicts epic magical battles as the war comes to a head

Our Expert Opinion

As the last book in Feist’s seminal fantasy series which has spanned decades, Master of Furies is arguably the best fantasy book in India for loyal fans of the expansive Riftwar universe. With its high stakes storyline and development of beloved characters like Tomas, Pug and Magnus, this promises to satisfy fantasy readers in India who have followed this grand saga. The epic world-changing confrontation will enthrall Indian fans who appreciate Feist’s exceptional imagination.

2. Divine Rivals

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Description

Divine Rivals kicks off an enchanting YA fantasy romance series about elite magic academies and forbidden love. This Sunday Times number one bestseller has captured the hearts of fantasy fans with its magical letters and tense rival dynamics.

Key Features

• Features an elite, restrictive academy called the Institute of Enchantment
• Depicts a secretive Student Council with influential power
• Shows the lead character Viola secretly practicing forbidden magic
• Viola receives mysterious anonymous letters that could threaten her future

Our Expert Opinion

With Indian readers increasingly enjoying fantasy romance books, Divine Rivals offers an irresistible magic academy setup combined with a secret admirer romance story. As the book navigates complex social hierarchies, racial dynamics in fantasy worlds, and the journey of self-discovery and empowerment, Indian fans will find much to relate to. The start of an addictive new series, this is arguably the best YA fantasy romance in India.

3. The High Mountain Court

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Description

The High Mountain Court is the first steamy fantasy romance in a buzzed-about series that has earned rave reviews for its twist on the enemies-to-lovers trope. The book focuses on an independent queen reluctantly marrying a warlord from a rival kingdom.

Key Features

• Features fan-favorite enemies-to-lovers and arranged marriage tropes
• Dual perspectives from both the leading lady and lord
• Marriage of convenience set-up between adversarial rulers
• Sensual fantasy romance scenes that push boundaries

Our Expert Opinion

This fantasy romance skillfully merges political intrigue with heated interpersonal relationships, as evidenced by its popularity on TikTok. As the first in an addictive political fantasy romance series, The High Mountain Court is arguably the best fantasy book in India for fans of fantasy stories with dense romantic subplots focusing on sexual-tension-filled dynamics between adversaries. Indian readers will be swept up in the perilous world of these battling royals.

4. A Sky Beyond the Storm

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Description

A Sky Beyond the Storm concludes Sabaa Tahir’s Ember Quartet, wrapping up the journeys of fugitives Laia and Helene as they lead a revolution while facing down a terrifying new weapon.

Key Features

• Final book in the acclaimed fantasy series A Ember in Ashes
• Features the aftermath of a bloody, hard-won battle against a brutal empire
• Depicts the lead heroines grappling with trauma and tough choices
• Reveals whether Laia and Elias find peace together

Our Expert Opinion

This explosively action-packed finale brings to an end Sabaa Tahir’s bestselling YA high fantasy series in a way that is devastating yet hopeful. For Indian fans invested in fierce heroine Laia’s inspiring journey and the thrilling revolution storyline, A Sky Beyond the Storm is the fantasy book in India not to miss. It captures flawed characters navigating trauma and fighting for freedom – themes many Indian readers will connect deeply with.

5. Something I’m Waiting to Tell You

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Description

Something I’m Waiting to Tell You is a poignant story exploring the complex relationship between a mother and daughter as the daughter prepares to leave the family nest. Written by acclaimed novelist Shravya Bhinder, this book has garnered praise for sensitively depicting themes of change, communication, and connection.

Key Features

• Moving story highlighting family relationships and personal growth
• Heartfelt writing style with emotional resonance
• Relatable characters navigating the transition to adulthood
• Thoughtful commentary on taking risks to find one’s own path

Our Expert Opinion

As a crafted novel focused intimately on self-discovery and intergenerational relationships, Something I’m Waiting to Tell You offers Indian readers profound insights into the joy and pain of growing up and forging one’s identity. Bhinder has an incredible ability to capture the unspoken love and tension that underlies every mother-daughter bond. This book is arguably the best in India this year for fans of stirring family dramas.

6. Tales of the Celestial Kingdom

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Description

Tales of the Celestial Kingdom kicks off an immersive Chinese-inspired adult fantasy trilogy about an immortal warrior and powerful sorceress who must work together to save humanity. With its creative worldbuilding and slow-burn romance, this novel has captured readers’ imaginations.

Key Features

• Showcases Chinese mythology and history influences
• Features an expansive world with numerous magical realms
• Depicts growing romantic connection between immortal leads
• High stakes plot involving primordial demonic threat

Our Expert Opinion

For fantasy fans in India looking for a transcendent read steeped in Chinese culture, Tales of the Celestial Kingdom, with its poetic writing style and grand scope, is arguably the best new fantasy book to pick up. As the first installment in an epic trilogy, it lays the groundwork for an addictive adventure that global readers are already raving about. The seamless integration of human drama against a backdrop of gods and demons makes this fantasy series undeniably special.

7. The Hurricane Wars

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Description

The Hurricane Wars kicks off an action-packed adult fantasy romance following an embittered sahir warrior escaping forced service to the Empire’s army by fleeing to a pirate crew captained by his greatest enemy – a roguish woman named Edrina. They are swept into increasingly perilous battles between dark magic and pirates.

Key Features

• Features pirate fantasy with an enemies-to-lovers relationship
• Depicts a disgraced sahir warrior joining a pirate band
• Set against the high seas with warring military, criminal gangs and assassins
• Depicts dangerous seafaring with thrill-seeking escapades

Our Expert Opinion

Addictively sensational and original, The Hurricane Wars fuses a heart-racing pirate fantasy storyline with mature romantic themes. It’s an immersive escape featuring flawed protagonists forced together in a lawless seafaring world. With increasingly electric chemistry between leads, promise of complex anti-heroes, and the turbulent unknown of The Devil’s Triangle, Indian readers seeking escapist fantasy will find The Hurricane Wars series arguably the best fantasy book in India.

8. Samsara: Enter The Valley Of The Gods

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Description

Samsara: Enter The Valley Of The Gods by acclaimed Indian fantasy author Neeharika Roy is an epic mythological fantasy set in the secret valley kingdom of Shambhala where mortals and gods interact. Romance and adventure ensue as mortal protagonist Mohini becomes entangled with divine politics after her archaeologist parents’ mysterious deaths.

Key Features

• Set in the fantastical Himalayan kingdom Shambhala
• Imaginative worldbuilding bringing mythology to life
• Adventurous quest storyline involving legendary gods
• Features a cover by Virginia Allyn, known for V.E. Schwab’s book covers

Our Expert Opinion

For Indian readers wanting to experience an imaginative fantasy adventure soaked in Hindu mythology, Samsara is arguably the fantasy book in India we most recommend. Neeharika Roy has boldly created an inspired and immersive new world showcasing uniquely Indian mythos. This richly inventive novel also boasts a dangerous political conspiracy, fated romance, moral dilemmas, and thought-provoking themes that showcase the creative future of Indian fantasy fiction.

9. Babel: The SUNDAY TIMES and #1 NEW YORK TIMES bestseller

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Description

Babel by R F Kuang is an acclaimed historical fantasy novel utilizing linguistics-based magic within a university setting. It has become an international bestseller for its razor-sharp portrayal of student activism and rebellion against authoritarian regimes.

Key Features

• Award-winning author R F Kuang dubbed “the next J K Rowling”
• Gripping magical university storyline
• Allegory reflecting real historical revolutions
• Complex exploration of morality, power, language

Our Expert Opinion

As a searing and smart fantasy that holds up a mirror to our world, Babel is essentially a must-read, making it arguably the best fantasy book in India. Kuang writes incisively about revolution and rebellion – themes that strongly resonate with the Indian experience under colonial rule. For fantasy fans wanting imaginative but meaningful stories, the brilliant worldbuilding and complex characters of Babel delivers a relevant, impactful message through a truly unforgettable reading experience.

10. FOURTH WING

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Description

Fourth Wing is the follow-up to the explosive Sunday Times and worldwide bestseller The Empyrean about economically disadvantaged youth competing for glory in a cutthroat flying academy written by Rumi Sherzai.

Key Features

• Features an underdog tale of disadvantaged youth seeking greatness
• High-flying aviation battles and aerial stunts
• Examination of privilege and inequality
• Inspired by Rumi Sherzai’s life in Delhi slums

Our Expert Opinion

Grounded in realistic social issues plaguing India like inequality and lack of mobility for marginalized youth, Fourth Wing resonates strongly with Indian readers through protagonist Kirit’s inspiring against-all-odds journey. The stakes have been raised for Kirit as he battles ruthless tyrants threatening his future as a pilot and his budding relationship. For fantasy fans seeking stories mirroring Indian social issues, Fourth Wing is arguably the fantasy book in India that achieves this.

11. The Burning God

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Description

The Burning God concludes R.F. Kuang’s The Poppy War trilogy about a war orphan turned shaman who must finally face the dark truths of her nation’s history and her own power. This historical grimdark fantasy has won numerous awards.

Key Features

• Gripping finale to a acclaimed fantasy trilogy
• Dark reality of war, colonialism, addiction
• Chinese-inspired worldbuilding and history
• Main character’s trajectory from student to feared leader

Our Expert Opinion

Epic in scope yet painfully intimate, The Burning God offers an uncompromising look at cycles of oppression and violence – relevant global issues that strongly resonate with Indian readers familiar with colonization and war. Through Rin’s tumultuous journey, Kuang tells a towering story about humanity’s capacity for evil in the pursuit of power. Indian fans wanting fantasy that captures reality’s harsh truths will find this award winning trilogy the best one in the genre.

12. A Reaper at the Gates: Book 3 (Ember Quartet)

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Description

A Reaper at the Gates continues the story of epic fantasy series An Ember in Ashes, depicting scholarly slave-turned-rebel spymaster Cook and her allies working to spark revolution while facing threats from all sides.

Key Features

• Ongoing revolution storyline starring fan favorite character
• Fast-paced plots reflecting realistic war challenges
• Exciting expansion of intricate fantasy world
• Buildup to the finale book in acclaimed series

Our Expert Opinion

Sabaa Tahir sustains adrenaline-fueled tension while expanding character depth in this penultimate book in her bestselling YA fantasy series. As one of the most empowering heroines in Indian fantasy fiction, Cook is a force to be reckoned with. Her leadership through adversity demonstrates inspiring resilience – a timeless virtue that resonates with Indian readers. For those following An Ember in Ashes’ revolution against oppression, A Reaper at the Gates is arguably the best fantasy book in India to read next.

13. The Dragon Republic

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Description

In The Dragon Republic, shaman and war heroine Rin struggles with addiction and desire for vengeance in the aftermath of slaughtering millions, challenging her sanity as she navigates remnant battlefields. This dark epic fantasy deeply explores morality.

Key Features

• Grimdark fantasy deconstruction of the “hero” trope
• Chinese history and mythology influences
• Main character copes with PTSD and addiction
• Moral dilemma of responibility for massacre

Our Expert Opinion

Gritty and thoughtful, The Dragon Republic cements Kuang as one of fantasy’s most talented new writers. Flawed characters like Rin with internal demons resonate strongly with Indian fans seeking complex protagonists facing harsh emotional truths while trying to chart the right course. This warfare and morality fantasy title that pulls no punches makes it arguably the best one for Indian readers wanting stark, sobering reflections of humanity rather than just epic battles.

14. A Storm of Swords

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Description

A Storm of Swords: Part 1 Steel and Snow returns readers to the war, political intrigue, and sprawling world of George R. R. Martin’s iconic fantasy saga A Song of Ice and Fire, focusing on fan-favorite characters like Jon Snow, Daenerys Targaryen and Tyrion Lannister.

Key Features

• Sequel to acclaimed series adapted into global sensation TV show Game of Thrones
• Features key protaganists from Stark, Targaryen and Lannister families
• Complex plots including wedding massacre and Wildling invasion
• Iconic twists and betrayls shock loyal readers

Our Expert Opinion

With phenomenally high stakes action sequences and unpredictable plot twists that turn tropes upside down, this next installment in Martin’s expansive dark fantasy epic remains utterly unmissable – making it arguably the fantasy book in India longtime fans should prioritize. As key pieces move fatefully across the chessboard of Westeros, this story propels forward ambitious storyarcs for some of fantasy’s most iconic characters. Indian readers will surely be glued to every revelation about the paths forward for fan favorites like Snow, Daenerys and Tyrion.

Comparison of Best Fantasy Books in India

How to Choose the Best Fantasy Book in India

When selecting your next fantasy novel, first consider subgenres that appeal most to your tastes. Seek recommendations from friends, reviews, bestseller charts and niche fantasy forums online tailored for Indian readers. Study book blurbs and opening chapters to gauge writing style and worldbuilding quality. Look for authentic Indian representation if desired. Ultimately choose stories with premises, themes and characters that speak to you emotionally and transport you imaginatively.

Different Types of Fantasy Books

Epic Fantasy: Sweeping worlds with quests against supreme evil
Grimdark Fantasy: Grittier worlds with anti-heroes questioning morality
Wuxia Fantasy: Chinese-inspired worlds with martial arts heroes
Mythic Fantasy: Stories utilizing religious/cultural myths
Folklore Fantasy: Tales building out a culture’s fairytales and legends
Urban Fantasy: Fantasy concepts featured in modern real-world settings
YA Fantasy: Coming-of-age fantasy adventures intended for teen readers
Romantic Fantasy: Fantasy infused with heavy romantic subplots and themes

Guide on Fantasy Book Usage, Maintenance and Care

• Acquire novels through bookstores, online buying and community libraries
• Handle books carefully to avoid rips, stains and binding damage
• Do not bend or apply pressure on book spines which can break
• Store upright on shelves and avoid excess moisture or sunlight
• Turn pages gently without licking fingers to minimize tears
• Use bookmarks rather than folding corners to save your spot
• Consider e-books, audiobooks and library loans to economize
• Donate, gift or re-sell books instead of tossing to extend their lifecycle

FAQs about Best Fantasy Books

Q. Should I start with standalone fantasy books or finished series?

Standalone novels provide contained stories while finished series allow binging full character journeys, so both options have merit for Indian readers. Beginners may prefer self-contained tales to test the fantasy genre before committing to lengthy series.

Q. How can I find the best new fantasy book releases in India?

Look for curated new release catalogs from Indian fantasy book bloggers or follow your favorite fantasy authors, publishers and bookstores online to get alerts for upcoming India releases. Redwolf’s annual anticipation posts for Indian SFF books and awards lists like the Tata Lit Live Book of the Year also highlight exciting new titles.

Q. Why do epic fantasy books and series gain such loyal fandoms in India?

Epic sagas allow immersive escapes into intricately crafted secondary worlds where readers become invested in characters over long character arcs across multiple books. These expansive stories also often feature high stakes adventures and warring kingdoms that resonate with Indian history. The deep worldbuilding provides rich escapism, making these lengthy series extremely addictive for fantasy fans in India.

Q. Should I read fantasy books in English or native Indian languages?

Fantasy is most prolific in English but increasingly more Indian regional language fantasy titles are releasing thanks to rising demand. Choose languages you are most fluent and comfortable in. Translated international books also help Indian language readers access acclaimed titles, while original Indian language fantasy novels better incorporate Indian culture, voice and themes.

Q. Why do female Indian authors gain huge fantasy book popularity recently?

The global success of Indian female fantasy writers like Namina Forna, Krishna Udayasankar, Durriya Kapasi and others highlights the growing appetite for diverse voices. With inventive new worlds reflecting Indian culture and strong female protagonists, these breakout women authors capture what modern fans crave through a uniquely Indian lens. More traditionally dominated genres now hunger for these fresh perspectives.

Q. Why fantasy books are the best ?

Fantasy books provide the ultimate escapism through immersive worldbuilding while exploring imaginative new ideas. They showcase creative magic systems, unusual creatures, perilous quests and lands beyond reality that ignite wonder. Character-driven fantasy stories also resonate deeply through themes of good versus evil, fate and predestination, coming-of-age, and moral conflicts. The symbolism in fantasy makes it memorable while the high stakes capers, political intrigues and war storylines keep it addictively thrilling. For Indian readers especially, fantasy based on Indian mythology provides uniquely cultural reading escapism. The best fantasy books as per the analysis above are:

• Master of Furies
• Divine Rivals
• The High Mountain Court
• A Sky Beyond the Storm
• Tales of the Celestial Kingdom
• The Hurricane Wars
• Samsara: Enter The Valley of the Gods
• Babel
• FOURTH WING
• The Burning God
• A Reaper at the Gates
• The Dragon Republic
• A Storm of Swords: Part 1 Steel and Snow

Q. What are the best fantasy books ?

As analyzed above, some of the best fantasy books currently are:

• Master of Furies – Epic finale of longrunning acclaimed fantasy saga
• Babel – Allegorical revolution tale of magic and resistance
• The Burning God – Grimdark fantasy trilogy conclusion with unflinching war commentary
• FOURTH WING – Underdog tale of youth seeking greatness with high stakes
• A Storm of Swords – Next installment developing key characters in iconic fantasy series

Q. What are the best fantasy romance books?

For readers enjoying romantic subplots and themes within their fantasy stories, some top recommendations are:

• Divine Rivals – YA fantasy romance set at an elite magical academy
• The High Mountain Court – Steamy enemies-to-lovers political fantasy romance
• Tales of the Celestial Kingdom – Epic Chinese-inspired fantasy with immortal slow-burn romance
• The Hurricane Wars – Passionate pirate fantasy adventure with electric enemies-to-lovers chemistry.

Conclusion

Across these myriad fantasy books and series, notable titles analyze dynamics of power, language, revolution and morality while additionally spotlighting crucial issues in Indian society related to inequality, marginalization and trauma. While providing sheer reading escapism, the genre’s symbolism simultaneously makes it well-suited to offer cultural commentary. For Indian readers, investing in these skillfully crafted tales hence not only provides entertainment through perilous quests and captivating characters but also emotional catharsis, hope, perspective and motivation to keep fighting – making fantasy eternally relevant.