The Recommended Fantasy Author List
Author Last Names K through P
Last update: March 1, 2009
**Guy Gavriel Kay (b. 1954)The Fionavar Tapestry The Summer Tree The Wandering Fire The Darkest Road
Bad Things Can Happen To Good People in Kay's books. Be forewarned,but read them anyway. This is yet another take on Arthurian legend.Tigana
A standalone about a land under a particularly nasty curse, andthe inhabitants' fight to end it. Complex, very well written. Your FAQmakertried it after receiving numerous glowing recommendations, and now addsher voice to the chorus A Song for Arbonne
Another excellent standalone from Kay. The fantasy world is looselybased on medieval France (specifically Eleanor of Aquitaine's Court ofLove). The Lions of Al-Rassan
Kay's latest, set in a time and place reminiscent of Moorish Spain.Wow, do I like his stuff - great characters, marvelous story, vivid world.He just gets better and better. The fantasy content of Kay's work is shrinking,and it is virtually non-existent here. The Sarantine Mosaic Sailing to Sarantium Lord of Emperors
This duology is set in an alternate Holy Roman Empire. The Last Light of the Sun
Kay's "northern" book, focusing on the Vikings, Anglo-Saxons and Welsh, roughly in and around the time of Alfred the Great. Kay also recently released a book of poetry titled Beyond this Dark House. Ysabel
Differing from Kay's usual historic settings, this book takes place in the world of today: in a modern springtime, in and around the celebrated city of Aix-en-Provence near Marseilles. Dangerous, mythic figures from the Celtic and Roman conflicts of the past erupt into the present, claiming and changing lives. Marvin Kaye (b. 1938)The Umbrella series The Incredible Umbrella The Amorous Umbrella
Peter calls these two 'light, amusing, Gilbert and Sullivan-themedliterary world hopping.'Paul Kearney (b. 1967)The Way to Babylon
Kearney's first book. A Different Kingdom
A contemporary fantasy. Michael Fay discovers the forest behindhis Irish grandfather's farm contains different times and creatures.Riding the Unicorn
A stolid, unimaginitive prison officer is hearing voices and strangesounds...then the visions of another world begin. The Monarchies of God Hawkwood's Voyage The Heretic Kings The Iron WarsThe Second EmpireShips from the West
An alternate-history fantasy epic taking place in a late-medievalEurope and Middle East. The Hawkwood of the title is captain of an expeditionto a New World, with a ship full of persecuted Jews and magic users escapingthe Inquistion.The Sea Beggars The Mark of Ran This Forsaken Earth
The Guardian described this as "Master and Commander with added magic." Marjorie B. Kellogg (b. 1946)The Dragon Quartet The Book of Earth The Book of Water The Book of Fire The Book of Air
The four Dragon books are being reissued in the winter of 2005 in two omnibus editions.Kellogg also wrote some very good SF back in the 80's as "M. Bradley Kellogg".*KatharineKerr (b. 1944)Deverry Daggerspell Darkspell The Bristling Wood ('Dawnspell' in the U.K.) The Dragon Revenant ('Dragonspell' in the U.K.)
Daggerspell has recently been re-released in the U.S. The new editionhas been re-edited by the author, however this consisted mainly of tighteningsome passages and some grammatical cleanup. NO scenes were added or takenout. Darkspell has also been reissued by Bantam Spectra, and ittoo has been re-edited by the author, and, according to Katharine Kerr,"...there are 5 or 6 changes to the action along the way..."Sarcyn's character undergoes the most significant changes. A *fine* author- her readers (and that includes the FAQmaster) recommend her highly.The Westland Cycle A Time of Exile A Time of Omens Days of Blood and Fire ('A Time of War' in the U.K.) Days of Air and Darkness ('A Time of Justice' in the U.K.)
More about Deverry.The Dragon Mage The Red Wyvern The Black RavenThe Fire Dragon
And yet more Deverry.The Silver Wyrm trilogy plus oneThe Gold FalconThe Spirit StoneThe Shadow IsleThe Silver Mage (forthcoming late 2009/early 2010)
The final four novels will complete the story of Deverry (although she certainly hasn't ruled out a return sometime in the future), and in Britain they're being as books four, five, six, and seven of The Dragon Mage. Originally intended to be a trilogy, the third book had to split in two. Kerr intersperses SF novels with her fantasy output, and they're worth reading, too.StephenKing (b. 1946)The Eyes of the Dragon
Good standalone fantasy (there are so few of those out there thesedays...) I enjoyed it, and I am *not* a Stephen King fan. Dark Tower series The Gunslinger The Drawing of the Three The Waste Lands Wizard and GlassWolves of the CallaSong of SusannahThe Dark Tower
Eriond says this is a great series that is improving as it goesalong. "It's about a gunslinger who's seeking his father's murderer,picks up an "adopted" son and three companions, and is slowlylosing his mind." Eriond also says to skip The Gunslinger -"it's wretched! You don't really need to read it to understand [theseries]." Another recommender strongly disagrees with him, and, now thatthe series it complete, it turns out that you DO need to read the first book tounderstand what is going on.MindyKlasky The Glasswright series The Glasswright's ApprenticeThe Glasswright's ProgressThe Glasswright's JourneymanThe Glasswright's ApprenticeThe Glasswright's TestThe Glasswright's Master
On-going series.Season of Sacrifice
Standalone novel unrelated to her Glasswright's series.Code of the Dragon (maybe forthcoming - currently on hold)
According to the author, "Dragon is a new type of fantasy novel for me. It has magic, based on pre-Christian Slavic folklore. It has a stratified society, based on daily life in Ancient Rome...And, it has dragons!" Her next books will be published by Red Dress Ink, and will be in the "chick lit" category.Jane Madison trilogy Girl's Guide To WitchcraftSorcery and the Single GirlMagic and the Modern Girl
From Red Dress Ink, the adventures of a librarian who discovers that she's a witch.As You Wish series How Not To Make a Wish (forthcoming Oct 2009When Good Wishes Go Bad (forthcoming)
A wish-granting genie always manages to complicate the lives of the people he's supposed to help. Another paranormal/chick lit series from Red Dress Ink.RichardKnaak (b. 1961)The Dragonrealm Firedrake Ice Dragon Wolfhelm Shadow Steed The Crystal Dragon The Dragon Crown The Horse King
Light reading of the 'Dragonlance' variety (in fact, Knaak has threeDragonLance novels under his belt), but it is a totally separate series.The books are related, but it is possible to read them separately.Dragonrealm OriginsThe Shrouded Realm Children of the Drake Dragon Tome
Further information about the Dragonrealm.Frostwing
Standalone about an immortal sorcerer haunted in his dreams by thegargoyle Frostwing, who knows the truth about him. (Corrected capsule descriptioncourtesy of the author, who presumably has a better idea than Paul on whatthe book is about). King of the Grey
The Janus Mask
Two more fantasy standalones. Dutchman
A new variation on the Flying Dutchman, taking place in Chicago.*Katherine Kurtz (b. 1944)Deryni Chronicles Deryni Rising Deryni Checkmate High Deryni
The first published Deryni books. Although these are not first inthe internal chronology of the series, Kurtz herself has recommended thatnew readers start with these. Takes place in a Wales-like alternate worldwhere a portion of the population (the Deryni) have magical abilitiesCamber of Culdi Camber of Culdi Saint Camber Camber the Heretic
Jumps back in time to examine the history that lead to the worldof the "Deryni Chronicles."The Histories of King Kelson The Bishop's Heir The King's Justice The Quest for Saint Camber
Picks up where the "Chronicles" left off.Heirs of Saint Camber The Harrowing of Gwynedd King Javan's Year The Bastard Prince
Apparently, Bad Things *Regularly* Happen to Good People in thelater books of Katherine Kurtz. Her fans are quite dedicated, and she hasa newsgroup at alt.books.deryni.King Kelson's Bride
A standalone continuation of the Deryni saga. Kelson finally getsa wife. The Childe Morgan trilogyIn the King's ServiceChilde MorganBook three (forthcoming someday)
The latest Deryni trilogy. These take place prior to the events of the original Deryni trilogy, with the first book exploring the relationship between the Haldanes and the Corwyns. The second and third books will take the story right up to the start of Deryni Rising.Two Crowns for America
A non-Deryni book. This one takes place in an alternate historycolonial America.St. Patrick's Gargoyle
A standalone. The gargoyles on the city's churches are actually guardians,and do they have some tales to tell...Katherine Kurtz and Deborah Turner Harris (b. 1951)The Adept series The Adept The Lodge of the Lynx The Templar Treasure Dagger Magic Death of an Adept
Set in modern day Scotland, Kheldar says "I recommend themto everybody, not just readers of Sci-Fi/Fantasy." Harris also hasseveral books of her own out, listed under her name.The Templar series The Temple and the StoneThe Temple and the Crown
A third book is being planned, which will feature Robert the Bruce's brother who briefly became King of Ireland.Ellen Kushner(b. 1955)SwordspointThe Fall of Kings co-author Delia Sherman
Two novels about swordsman Richard St Vier and his companion Alec. No actual magic is in these, but the world is definitely not ours. The Privilege of the Sword
Standalone set in the world of Swordspoint.Thomas the Rhymer
A stand-alone based on the Scottish ballad. Kushner has also editedseveral excellent fantasy short story collections**MercedesLackey (b. 1950)The Valdemar Books titles follow
Each of the following is a separate series, but they all take placeat various points in the history of the world of Velgarth (which containsthe country of Valdemar). There is also at least one stand-alone (Bythe Sword) about Valdemar. Her fans are as dedicated as the Jordanitesand they have their own newsgroup at alt.books.m-lackeyThe Last Herald-Mage Magic's Pawn Magic's Promise Magic's Price
Introduces the Herald-Mages and their equine Companions.Vows and Honor The Oathbound Oathbreakers
A sorceress and a swordswoman are bound together with a blood oaththat may be impossible to fulfill.Queen's Own Arrows of the Queen Arrow's Flight Arrow's Fall
The story of Talia, the herald to the Queen.Mage Winds Trilogy Winds of Fate Winds of Change Winds of Fury
Princess Elspeth of Valdemar becomes caught up in the Tayledras'war against an evil mage.Mage Wars Trilogy (co-authored by Larry Dixon) The Black Gryphon The White Gryphon The Silver Gryphon
The early history of the land of Valdemar.Mage Storm Trilogy Storm Warning Storm Rising Storm Breaking
The most recent series. Valdemar and Karse are old enemies, butthey are forced into an alliance when they are both threatened by a greaterfoe.Owl series Owlflight Owlsight Owlknight
Takes place after the Mage Storms series. These are described as young adult books.Take a Thief
A stand-alone story about Skif, Talia's close friend in the Arrows series.Brightly Burning
The lastest Valdemar book is the story of Lavan Firestorm, who discovers he has the gift of firestarting.Diana Tregard Investigations Burning Water Children of the Night Jinx High
Supernatural mysteries, featuring Diana Tregard.Bardic Voices The Lark and the Wren The Robin and the Kestrel The Eagle and the NightingaleFour and Twenty Blackbirds
The books in this series do stand alone. NOT part of the Valdemarseries.Bardic Choices A Cast of Corbies (co-author Josepha Sherman)
A new series in the Bardic Voices world.The Elemental MastersThe Fire RoseThe Sepent's ShadowGates of SleepPhoenyx and AshesThe Wizard of LondonReserved for the Cat
Loosely related series of books taking place around the turn of the 19th century, following a hidden group of alchemical masters.Dragon Jousters seriesJoustAltaSanctuaryAerie
A young slave dreams of being a Jouster - one of the few who can actually ride a flying dragon.Tales of the Five Hundred KingdomsThe Fairy GodmotherOne Good KnightFortune's FoolThe Snow Queen
In the Five Hundred Kingdoms, the destiny of witches, knights, princesses and such are regulated by The Tradition, a magical force that is one of the primary sources of magic. Fairy Godmothers, Champions and Wizards are responsible for ensuring that The Tradition is upheld. These came out under Harlequin's Luna line, which means there's lots of romance with the fantasy.Firebird
A standalone, based on Russian folktales. Lackey is a wildly prolific author, co-authoring books with everyone under the sun. I've listed very few of the co-authored works; if you're interested in everything that Lackey has been involved with, be sure to visit her website.Stephen Lawhead(b. 1950)The Pendragon Cycle Taliesin Merlin Arthur Pendragon Grail Avalon
Once again, we return to Camelot..."The quality disintegratedafter the first two books - Arthur was disappointing..." accordingto one recommender.The Dragon King Trilogy In the Hall of the Dragon King The Warlords of Nin The Sword and the Flame
A separate trilogy.The Paradise War The Song of Albion The Silver Hand The Endless Knot
Doug noted that even though he isn't particularly a fan of celticfantasy, these books really appealed to him.Byzantium
'Joining a select band of monks to present a book to the Holy RomanEmperor himself, Aidan jouneys to the farthest reaches of the known world,'sez the advertising released by HarperPrism publishing. The Celtic Crusades series The Iron LanceThe Black RoodThe Mystic Rose
Trilogy set during the Crusades.The King Raven TrilogyHoodScarletTuck
"Bran ap Brychan finds his world ripped from its foundation as invaders topple his father's kingdom and send the young prince fleeing into the forest." This is a new take on the Robin Hood story.Tanith Lee (b. 1947)Unicorn series Black Unicorn Gold Unicorn Red Unicorn
Young adult series. Entertaining, and lacking some of Lee's usualdark undercurrents.Tales from the Flat Earth Night's Master Death's Master Delusion's Master Delirium's Mistress Night's Sorceries
Genevieve calls these 'absolutely gorgeous.'Kill the Dead
"Fantasy without superheroes - refreshing change" Leeis best known for her stories of Paradys, the 'city of decadence and decay,of luxury and lasciviousness.' Based on the title, I'd guess this exploressimilar territory.*UrsulaK. Le Guin (b. 1929)Earthsea A Wizard of Earthsea The Tombs of Atuan The Farthest Shore TehanuTales From EarthseaThe Other Wind
Your FAQmaker says: Read these. Tehanu was written 15 yearsafter The Farthest Shore - it's very different in tone from thefirst three, and several recommenders specifically DIDN'T recommend it(But I do. I'll tell you what to do - wait until you are at least 25 beforereading Tehanu. Age seems to be the real separating factor betweenthose who like it and those who don't). These books are true classics ofthe genre, beautifully written, tightly plotted, and engrossing. Talesis a collection of short stories, one of which, "Dragonfly", leads to the latest book.Annals of the Western ShoreGiftsVoicesPowers
You'll find these on the Young Adult shelves. Each novel is a stand-alone, taking place in the same world.Fritz Leiber(1910-1992)Fafhrd and the Grey Mouser Swords and Deviltry Swords Against Death Swords in the Mist Swords Against Wizardry Swords Against Lankhmar Swords and Ice Magic Knight and Knave of Swords
Ya wanna know who invented the term 'Sword & Sorcery'?This is the guy. The series is made up of short stories, novellas, novelettes,and one novel (the final book). The above-listed 7 books contain all thestories, arranged in chronological order, with Swords and Deviltryfeaturing the Hugo-award winning "Ill Met in Lankhmar." Notethat the final two books (Swords & Ice Magic & Knight& Knave of Swords) show, IMHO of course, a real drop in quality.MadeleineL'Engle (1918-2007)The Time Trilogy A Wrinkle in Time A Wind in the Door A Swiftly Tilting Planet
The first book stands alone (and won all kinds of awards - it deservedthem). L'Engle has added another book to the trilogy titled Many Waters(it features the twins), and some of the characters have also made cameoappearances in her other books. They're in the young adult section of yourlibrary.*C.S.Lewis (1898-1963)Chronicles of Narnia The Magician's Nephew The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe Prince Caspian The Voyage of the Dawn Treader The Horse and His Boy The Silver Chair The Last Battle
Classic! Look for them in the children's sections. Most bookstoreswill have boxed sets available. Note that The Magician's Nephewwas actually the 6th book written, and for many years in the U.S. the serieswas printed with it as book six. However, Lewis preferred that the booksbe read in the above order, and recent reprints have respected his wishes.The Space Trilogy Out of the Silent Planet Perelandra That Hideous Strength
Lewis' adult version of a Christian-allegory fantasy.Till We Have Faces
A different type of fantasy from Lewis. This is a retelling of thestory of Cupid and Psyche, told from the point of view of Psyche's sister.AstridLindgren (1907-2002)Ronia Robber's Daughter
Well, she didn't ONLY write about Pippi Longstocking. Denis saysthis is an enjoyable young adult fantasy. The Brothers Lionheart
Two young brothers become involved in a struggle to free two beautifulvalleys from a tyrant and his dragon. Mio, My Son
A young prince tries to free children that are kidnapped by an evilknight with an iron claw instead of a hand. Christina informs me that Lindgrenis loved by children from ages 5 to 95.Megan Lindholm (b. 1952)A Saga of the Reindeer People The Reindeer People Wolf's Brother
Prehistoric fantasy with a minimum of magic.Ki and Vandien series Harpy's Flight The Windsingers The Limbreth Gate Luck of the Wheels
Straightforward fantasy series about a pair of wanderers in a well-constructedworld where humans are only one of a number of intelligent races. The fanswho have discovered Lindholm via her works under the pen name 'Robin Hobb'will find these books the closest in tone and subject to what they're usedto.Cloven Hooves
Standalone dark fantasy set in present day Alaska and Washingtonstate. Wizard of the Pigeons
Urban fantasy that has a strong cult following. Many people considerthis to be her best work, and, of course, it is out of print and difficultto find.Holly Lisle (b. 1960)Arhel Novels Fire in the Mist Bones of the Past Mind of Magic
Standalone novels all set in the same world and featuring the sameprotagonists.Minerva Wakes
Standalone with a heroine from our world who must travel to a magicworld to save her family. Devil's Point series Sympathy for the Devil The Devil and Dan Cooley (with Walter Spence) Hell on High
Standalones that take place in contemporary North Carolina wherethe denizens of hell have literally be let loose. These satires are describedas 'rollicking fun'.The Secret Texts Diplomacy of Wolves Vengeance of DragonsCourage of Falcons
A new series. Warning: The ending of the first book is a real cliff-hanger. However, the three books listed do tell the complete story and this is not another of the never-ending tales that so many supposed trilogies have turned into these days.Vincalis the Agitator
Stand-alone prequel to the "Secret Texts" trilogy."The World Gates Memory of FireThe Wreck of HeavenGods Old and Dark
Two women from our world are pulled into a world of magic, where they must unite to stop an evil that threatens both worlds.The World of KorreTalynHawkspar
Stand-alone epic high-fantasy romance. The second book takes place in the same world, and is also a stand-alone.Morgan Llywelyn (b. 1937)Red Branch
Denis says this one is "perfect celtic fantasy!" It'sabout Cuchulain (try saying that three times fast). The Horse Goddess
Another Celtic fantasy. Jo found it "wonderful! ...with explanationsfor lots of changes in the Celtic lifestyle, interesting little quirkswhich made me think along different lines." The Arcana (with Michael Scott) Silverhand Silverlight
The tale of Silverhand, who is destined to save the world from Chaos.Jean Lorrah (b. 1940)Savage Empire series Savage Empire Dragon Lord of the Savage Empire Captives of the Savage Empire Flight to the Savage Empire this volume co-authored by Winston HowlettSorcerers of the Frozen Isles Wulfston's Odyssey this volume co-authored by Winston HowlettEmpress Unborn
Out of print, but Luke says they're worth looking up. The series is in the prcess of being reprinted in several omnibus volumes. The first, titled "Dark Moon Rising", contains thefirst three books of the series, and the second "Prophecies" contains books 4 and 5. There's no word on when or if the final two will be reprinted.Eric Van Lustbader (b. 1946)Sunset Warrior series Sunset Warrior Shallows of Night Dai-San Beneath an Opal Moon
Baz sez that this is "quite a good series, well worth a readagain." A sword and sorcery adventure set in a post-holocaust society,it has a samurai flavor. Lustbader has gone on to quite a bit of commercialsuccess with martial arts adventure books, that, while they aren't fantasies,do contain quite a bit of oriental mysticism.R.A. MacAvoy (b. 1949)Tea With the Black Dragon
Out of print, but worth looking up. This was her first book - itssequel (Twisting the Rope) is nowhere near as good. Damiano trilogy Damiano Damiano's Lute Raphael
Fantasy in Renaissance ItalyLens of the World trilogy Lens of the World King of the Dead Belly of the Wolf
MacAvoy is fond of creating heroes who remain stubbornly innocentto the point of idiocy. Some readers find this annoying (yeah, I'm oneof them), but she is a good writer, and always tells an interesting story.George MacDonald (1824-1905)The Princess and the Goblin
Author of a great many classic children's fantasies (my personalfavorite is The Light Princess). If you managed to miss him in youryouth, give him a try now.ArthurMachen (1863-1947)The Three Imposters
Michael calls this one 'a masterpiece.' The Hill of Dreams
Michael also loves this one, saying it has 'evocative images anda superb flow of the language.' Machen's work strongly influenced Lovecraftand other writers of gothic sf and fantasy.Bertil Martensson (b. 1945)Road Trilogy Vagen Bort (The Road That Leads Away) Vagen Tillbaka (The Road That Leads Back) Vagen Ut (The Road That Leads Out)
So far as I can determine, these have never been translated fromSwedish to English. Olof highly recommends his work, and notes that theyare based on Swedish folklore, not the usual English folklore.Vingmastarens Dotter (The Wing-Master's Daughter)
Detta Ar Verkligheten (This Is Reality)
GeorgeR.R. Martin (b. 1948)Song of Ice and Fire A Game of Thrones A Clash of Kings A Storm of Swords A Feast For CrowsA Dance For Dragons (forthcoming) The Winds of Winter (was A Time For Wolves) (forthcoming) A Dream of Spring (forthcoming)
I don't normally touch a limited series until all the pieces arepublished, but I broke my rule on this one. Martin is a veteran of theSF field, and this is an excellent fantasy with complex characters anda magnificently baroque setting. The first volume took the 1997 Locusaward for best fantasy. This started out as a four-volume series, wentto five, Martin promised that six volumes would be it, but now I see an eventual seventh volume listed on his website. He also promisedthat the third book wouldn't take as long to complete as the second. He lied. Let's see how well he does with the fifth volume.*JulianMay (b. 1931)The Saga of the Pliocene Exiles The Many-Colored Land The Golden Torc The Nonborn King The Adversary
Set six million years in the past. I'm told this is kinda like 'elvesand dinosaurs.' It is related to May's SF series, "The Galactic Milieu,"so if you like her you've got more books to look for.Boreal Moon trilogyConqueror's MoonIroncrown MoonSorcerer's Moon
A high fantasy trilogy from May.**Anne McCaffrey (b. 1926)Dragonriders of Pern Dragonflight Dragonquest The White Dragon
Yeah, they're SF, but they're included here by popular request.Lots more have been published since the first trilogy, and they've gottenmore and more SFnal as they've gone along.Harper's Hall trilogy Dragonsong Dragonsinger Dragondrums
Geared more toward the Young Adult market, your FAQmaker considersthis trilogy to be the most fantasy-based of the Pern books.Dan McGirt (b. 1967)Jason Cosmo Jason Cosmo Royal Chaos Dirty Work
Open-ended humorous adventure series featuring a woodcutter turnedhero through a case of mistaken identity. Kalten really really likes thisseries.Vonda McIntyre(b. 1948)The Moon and the Sun
This Nebula Award-winning novel transcends genre classification.The story of what happened when a sea monster was brought to the courtof Louis XIV, I highly recommend this one.Nancy McKenzie (b. 1948) Guinevere duology The Child Queen The High Queen
Yeah, it's Guinevere and Arthur AGAIN, but it looks like it maybe worth reading anyway. Recently reprinted in a single volume under the title Queen of Camelot.Grail Prince
King Arthur sends Galahad on a quest to find the lost treasures of an ancient king ? a Grail, a Spear, a Sword ? which will safeguard Britain?s future.Prince of Dreams
At sixteen, Tristan wins the Kingdom of Britain for his uncle, Markion of Cornwall. At eighteen, he falls in love with his uncle's new wife, Essylte. Desire, deception, magic, masquerade, abduction, exile, murder, heroic rescue and wild adventure follow this tale of love and honor in post-Arthurian Britain.Dreamer of Lyonesse
Sequel to Prince of Dreams which follows the adventures of Trintan the younger, presumably the son of the Tristan of the previous book.Chrysalis Queen Quartet Guinevere's GiftGuinevere's Gamble (forthcoming June 2009)Third book (forthcoming)Fourth book (forthcoming)
A new series, taking another look at Guinevere's life.DennisMcKiernan (b. 1932)The Iron Tower Trilogy The Dark Tide Shadows of Doom The Darkest Day
Well, McKiernan wanted to write a sequel to 'Lord of the Rings',but the Tolkien estate refused permission. So he recreated Middle Earthin "The Iron Tower Trilogy" with just enough differences to keepfrom violating copyright and has continued from there. A decent writer,and his later books about the world of Mithgar are much more original andquite enjoyableSilver Call duology Trek to Kraggen-Cor The Brega Path
This was intended to be one book, so you definitely don't want toread it unless you have both parts in hand.Tales of Mithgar
11 short stories set in Mithgar. Dragondoom
The Eye of the Hunter
Voyage of the Fox Rider
The Dragonstone
Hel's Crucible duology Into the Forge Into the Fire
These books stand alone, but take place in Mithgar, the world ofthe "Iron Tower" trilogy. Silver Wolf, Black Falcon
When this came out in 2000, McKiernan described as "perhaps the last of the 'Mithgar' series." Which it was, until City of Jade came out in 2008...City of Jade
Return to the world of Mithgar! The latest book in the series.The "Restored" Fairy TalesOnce Upon a Winter's Night
A retelling of Beauty and Beast.Once Upon a Summer Day
This one is a retelling of Sleeping BeautyOnce Upon an Autumn Eve
This one combines the glass mountain and Tam Lin.Once Upon a Spring Morn
Childe Roland is one of the tales re-done in this one.Once Upon a Dreadful Time
The final book is an original story that ties the previous four together.PatriciaMcKillip (b. 1948)The Forgotten Beasts of Eld
Received the World Fantasy Award when it was published in 1975.A marvelous novel and highly recommended. It recently (July '96) was returnedto print in the U.S. by Harcourt Brace under their "Magic Carpet"imprint. Hooray! The Throme of the Erril of Sherill
Her first published fantasy, and it's hard to find, but well worthlooking for. A revised edition came out in the mid-80's. The Riddlemaster of Hed The Riddlemaster of Hed Heir of Sea and Fire Harpist in the Wind
Excellent trilogy. Your FAQmaker sez: Get these and read them. Beautifullywritten.The Changeling Sea
A young-adult standalone, with a young peasant girl saving a prince.Lyrical and moving. Something Rich and Strange
A standalone, part of Brian Froud's Faerielands series of novelsbased on his illustrations. Very atmospheric, quite short, involving acontemporary couple living on the western seacoast and their encounterwith magic. The Book of Atrix Wolfe
Standalone about a powerful wizard whose attempt to stop a war hasunexpected (and disastrous) results. Cygnet Sorceress and Cygnet Cygnet and Firebird
The first book in this series is well equipped with McKillip's usuallyric prose, but the actual plot is a bit obscure. Enjoyable, but not herbest work.Winter Rose
Another small gem from McKillip. Faerie and reality meet, with resultsthat may be fatal for Rois Melior's sister Laurel. Song for the Basilisk
Rook knew nothing of his past except for faint memories of fire and death that he'd rather forget. But his family's destiny is returning to haunt him, and he will have to face the Basilisk. The Tower at Stony Wood
A knight must follow the threads of reality and illusion to the truth.Ombria in Shadow
Another new stand alone fantasy from McKillip. The one took the World Fantasy Award for Best Novel.In the Forests of Serre
The grief-stricken Prince Ronan of Serre is cursed by Brume, Mother of All Witches. Already shattered by the death of his wife and child, he doesn't think there is anything more a curse can do to him. Another marvelous tale from McKillip.The Alphabet of Thorn
Deep inside a palace on the edge of the world, the orphan Nepenthe pores over books in the royal library, translating their languages and learning their secrets.Od Magic
Unbound magic was dangerous, so it was not permitted anywhere in Numis. But the new gardener at the school in the great city of Kelior possesses a power that he isn't aware of,one capable of overturning the rules.Solstice Wood
A stand-alone that features the descendants of the characters in Winter Rose. Unusualfor McKillip, it has a contemporary setting.Harrowing the Dragon
Short story collection.The Bell at Sealey Head
Another stand-alone in a contemporary setting. An unseen bell haunts a seaside town and a magical mansion.RobinMcKinley (b. 1952)Beauty
Charming retelling of Beauty & the Beast. Her first novel-it'sout of print now, but worth looking for. Do NOT confuse it with SherriTepper's Beauty - they are VERY different books. Damar series The Blue Sword The Hero and the Crown
She only wrote two books set in Damar (and they are standalones),and has since gone on to other subjects.The Outlaws of Sherwood
Guess who this one's about. Deerskin
I like McKinley, but most of her work is fairly lightweight. Thisisn't. Based on the uncensored version of Perrault's classic fairytale'Donkeyskin', it tackles the subject of incest. A Knot in the Grain and Other Stories
Short story collection. Two of the five stories in the book mentionDamar.Rose Daughter
McKinley returns once again to the story of Beauty and the Beast.Publishers Weekly calls this one a 'heady mix of fairy tale, magicand romance.' This is being peddled to the Young Adult market, so you'llneed to leave the sf section of your bookstore to find it.Spindle's End
This one was published as a young adult novel, so look for it there. Sleeping Beauty retold, and a minor part of the story is a very interesting take on the downside of all those fairy gifts given at Beauty's birth. Sunshine
A contemporary vampire novel. Reissued in 2008, it should be readily available. Dragonhaven
Dragons are extinct in the wild, but the Makepeace Institute of Integrated Dragon Studies in Smokehill National Park is home to about two hundred of the world?s remaining Draco australiensis. Humans have never seen a baby dragon . . . until Jake discovers a dying dragon that has just given birth, and one of the dragonlets is still alive. Chalice
A new fantasy. "A captivating tale that reveals the healing power of duty and honor, love, and honey." A. Merritt (1884-1943)The Moon Pool
A complicated lost-race fantasy that begins with a monster in apool in Micronesia. The Ship of Ishtar
Generally considered his best book, this is about a man who travelsinto a magical world and falls in love with the captain of ship of Ishtar.The Dwellers in the Mirage
Another lost-race tale, this one has two versions, one with a happyending, one without. Merritt was one of the pioneers of the sf and fantasyfield. His books are now out of print, but they were popular enough thatyou should be able to find them at a good library.MelisaMichaels (b. 1946) Rosie Lavine, P.I. Cold Iron Sister to the Rain
It's a world much like ours, only it has elves. And problems thattake tough, clever detective to solve. Both books stand alone, and bothare enjoyable.L.E.Modesitt Jr. (b. 1943)Recluce The Magic of Recluce The Towers of the Sunset The Magic Engineer The Order War The Death of Chaos Fall of Angels The Chaos Balance The White Order The Colors of ChaosMagi'i of CyadorScion of CyadorWellspring of ChaosOrdermasterNatural OrdermageMage-Guard of Hamor
This is open-ended - books are listed above in the order they werepublished, and does NOT follow the internal chronology of the series. Youshould try to read The Magic of Recluce first (some of the plottwists are more effective if you aren't aware of how magic works in Recluce),and The Death of Chaos is a direct sequel to tMoR. In addition, the latest book, Ordermaster, is a direct sequel to Wellspring of Chaos. However the other books all stand alone and can be read in any order.Dutch Republic series Of Tangible Ghosts The Ghost of the RevelatorGhost of the White Nights
Fantasy taking place in alternate universe that features ghostsand an East India Company that stayed the dominant economic power in theworld. The recently released Ghosts of Columbia is a omnibus containing the first two books of the series.Song and Magic The Soprano Sorceress The Spellsong War Darksong RisingThe Shadow SorceressShadowsinger
It started as a trilogy that introduced a world where magic is accessed throughmusic. The final two books follow the adventures of a new character, and appear to end the series.The Corean Chronicles Legacies DarknessesSceptersAlector's ChoiceCadmian's ChoiceSoarer?s ChoiceThe Lord-Protector's Daughter
Modessitt creates a new world and set a new fantasy series on it. The first three books introduce a hero who gradually comes to realize that he will have a central role in the destiny of his world. The next three books are set in the distant past of the original trilogy. The latest book is a stand-alone that I believe takes place after the first trilogy.L'Excelsis series Imager (forthcoming)Imager's Challenge (forthcoming)
The Corean series is over (at least for the moment) so Modessitt is starting another new series. In this world, a very, very few individuals have the power to create objects through visualizing them or maintain them. Rhennthyl is a journeyman portraiturist who is about to learn all about it.ElizabethMoon (b. 1945)The Deed of Paksenarrion Sheepfarmer's Daughter Divided Allegiance Oath of Gold
Rousing adventure about the soldier and hero Paksenarrion. Moonhas said that among the themes she worked on in the books was "thecost of courage, the cost of being a hero." She has written two prequelsto the trilogy, Surrender None and Liar's Oath, which arequite a bit darker in tone, and several of the recommenders who preferhappy endings have advised against reading them. Moon has switched just about exclusively to SF, however she is currently working on a new book that takes place in Paksenarrion's world.*Michael Moorcock (b. 1939)Elric Elric of Melnibone The Fortress of the Pearl A Sailor on the Seas of Fate The Weird of the White Wolf The Vanishing Tower The Revenge of the Rose The Bane of the Black Sword Stormbringer
There are also at least three anthologies about Elric (I'mtaking the word of one correspondent about where the two later books -tFotP and tRotR - fit in the cycle. I've only read the original sextet published by DAW in late 1970s). In the late 1990s, two omnibus volumes were published that collected the above 8 novels, and added more. In the U.S., they came out under the titles Elric: Song of the Black Sword and Elric: The Stealer of Souls. In the 21st century, Moorcock added a new trilogy to the Elric saga: The Dreamthief's Daughter, The Skrayling Tree, and The White Wolf's Son. Plus you've got various collections containing the early novelettes and novellas that Moorcock originally wrote back in the 1960s. If you are determined to follow every turn of Elric's story, you've got a lot of bibliographic research in front of you.Runestaff (Hawkmoon) The Jewel in the Skull The Mad God's Amulet The Sword of the Dawn The Runestaff
If you don't like the way this tetralogy ends, be sure and trackdown the 'Count Brass' trilogy, which brings all the characters back foranother go 'round.Count Brass Count Brass Champion of Garathorn The Quest for Tanelorn
The Runestaff/Count Brass books are my favorites in the EternalChampion cycle. Dorian Hawkmoon suffers less from angst than the Moorcock'susual Tortured Hero.Corum The Knight of Swords The Queen of Swords The King of Swords The Bull and the Spear The Oak and the Ram The Sword and the Stallion
Moorcock's entire (well, just about entire - there are a few bits& pieces that the rights weren't available) Eternal Champion cycleis being reprinted in 14 omnibus volumes by White Wolf PublishingJohn Daker (Erekose) The Eternal Champion Phoenix in Obsidian ('The Silver Warriors' in earlier U.S. editions)The Dragon in the Sword
All of these books -plus others- comprise the 'Eternal Champion'cycle. Quality varies, and hard core fantasy fans won't like some of theliberties Moorcock takes with the genre, but if you like 'em, there sureare a LOT of 'em to keep you busy.The War Hound & The World's Pain
Takes place in the 30-Years War time frame. Jim considers it toMoorcock's best non-Eternal Champion book (although, if you ask Moorcock,he'll tell you that ALL of his books are part of the Eternal Champion cycle).C.L. Moore (1911-1987)Jirel of Joiry
Series of short stories from the 30's and 40's. Jirel was the firstof the Barbarian Swordswomen. Moore's Northwest Smith stories are fun,too.John Morressy (1930-2006)Iron Angel series Greymantle Ironbrand Kingsbane The Annihilator
Early work of his, and hard to find. Eric says the Kedrigern bookspale in comparison to these - they are much more in the epic fantasy vein.The Annihilator is a prequel to the first three.Kedrigern A Voice for Princess The Questing of Kedrigern Kedrigern in Wanderland Kedrigern and the Charming Couple A Remembrance for Kedrigern
Humorous series about the wizard Kedrigern and his wife Princess.The books do stand alone, but the story follows a definite progression,with the final book bringing the series to a close. Morressy continued to write short stories about Kedrigern; a collection was scheduled by Meisha Merlin Publishing, but (like so many other works) it has gone into what will probably be permanent limbo after the company's bankrupcy.William Morris (1834-1896)Well at the World's End
The Wood Beyond the World
The Water of the Wondrous Isles
For the historically minded among you. Early fantasy (late 1800s). None are currently in print, but the first two were reprinted as part of Ballantine's Adult Fantasy series in the 70's, and so they do turn up at used book stores. You can also try the library, and if you like ebooks, all of his fantasy is available on Gutenberg.Patricia Kennealy Morrison (b. 1946)Keltiad series (a.k.a. The Tale of Aeron) The Silver Branch The Copper Crown The Throne of Scone
What would have happened if the Celts had escaped from Atlantisto Ireland, and then on to outer space?The Tale of Arthur The Hawk's Gray Feather The Oak Above the Kings The Hedge of Mist
Her earlier books were published under the name "Patricia Kennealy",although her legal last name is now Morrison and all new editions havebeen published under that name. She is deeply interested in Celtic myth,and, yes, 'The Tale of Arthur' is about THAT Arthur. Trivia buffs willbe fascinated to know that Patricia Kennealy was married to late Jim Morrisonof The Doors in a religious (though not legally binding) ceremony.Blackmantle
Standalone that is part of the Keltiad series. The story of Ard-RianAthyn Blackmantle and her consort Morric Douglas. The Deer's Cry
Covers the Keltic exodus from Earth.PeterMorwood (b. 1956)The Book of Years The Horse Lord The Demon Lord The Dragon Lord The War Lord (also published as The Warlord's Domain)
Tales From Old Russia Prince Ivan Firebird The Golden Horde The Blue Kremlin (forthcoming)
Takes place in a Russia that features magic.The Clan Wars Greylady Widowmaker Firedrake (forthcoming maybe someday)
Takes place about 500 years before the events in 'The Book of Years'series. Peter Morwood is married to author Diane Duane (another denizen of this list), and they've collaborated on several SF novels.Talbot Mundy (1879-1940)Tros of Samothrace Tros of Samothrace Queen Cleopatra The Purple Pirate
Takes place in the Roman Republic. Mundy died in 1940, and unfortunatelythis series hadn't been completed at the time. Out of print for a goodmany years, you may be able to find these at the library or used book stores.Note that paperback reprints divided the first book into several partsand renamed them. Follow the link to find an overview of the various series.I've read some of Mundy's other fantasy/adventure series (the "Jimgrim"books - there's 11 of those), and they're quite a lot of fun, too.H. Warner Munn (1903-1981)The Merlin Family Saga Merlin's Ring (combined volume containing 'King of the World's Edge'and 'The Ship from Atlantis') Merlin's Godson
Globe-and-time spanning adventures of Merlin and his godson Gwalchmai.Now out of print, they were part of Ballantine's Adult Fantasy series,so they shouldn't be too difficult to track down.John Myers Myers (1906-1988)Silverlock
Cult favorite. Chock full of allusions to history, literature, andpopular culture, plus lots of songs. There is a thematic sequel, TheMoon's Fire-Eating Daughter, of which the general consensus of opinionis that it is deservedly obscure.Andre Norton (1912-2005)Simon Tregarth Witch World Web of the Witch World
The duology that started the Witch World. Readers who were introducedto Witch World through the later books are often surprised by the SF trappingsof these books. The villains use high- tech weapons, the witches' powersare treated as psi rather than magic, and Simon arrives via a machine thatopens doors to parallel worlds.The Children of Simon Tregarth Three Against the Witch World Warlock of the Witch World Sorceress of the Witch World
Simon Tregarth's kids get a trilogy of their own, and the WitchWorld is thoroughly launched. It was also with these books that Nortonmade the choice to move the Witch World strictly into the fantasy genre.Witch World series Year of the Unicorn The Crystal Gryphon Gryphon in Glory The Jargoon Pard Zarsthor's Bane The Warding of Witch World many more
It went from an Open-Ended Series to a Shared World, but the first20 or so books are all Andre Norton's. And they're good, too. Most arestand-alones. Particular favorites that were specifically mentioned areYear of the Unicorn and The Crystal Gryphon, and Stephencasts his vote for The Jargoon Pard.The Halfblood Chronicles (with Mercedes Lackey) Elvenbane ElvenbloodElvenborn Elvenbred (forthcoming maybe)
Unrelated to the Witch World books, these involve a world wherehumans are enslaved by elves, and a prophecy about a half-breed who willlead the humans to freedom.Mirror of Destiny
A non-Witch World standalone about a wise woman's apprentice seekingto avert a war between humans and the inhabitants of a mystical forest.Naomi Novik (b. 1973)Temeraire series His Majesty's Dragon (published in U.K. as Temeraire)Throne of JadeBlack Powder WarEmpire of IvoryVictory of Eagles
Dragons in the Napoleonic era. What's not to like? Novik won the Campbell award for Best New Writer of 2006 - these books are a great fun. One warning: The fourth book ends with a major cliffhanger. Be sure you have the final book at hand.Nick O'Donohoe (b. 1952)Crossroads series The Magic and the Healing Under the Healing Sign The Healing of Crossroads
The adventures of a veterinarian in a magical land.The Gnomewrench in the DwarfworksThe Gnomewrench in the Peopleworks
A new series, and from the title, I'd guess it to be humorous.Pat O'Shea (1931-2007)The Hounds of the Morrigan
According to a blurb I found over in r.a.sf.w., 'Pidge and his littlesister Brigit get chosen by the Dagda to thwart the Morrigan's plan torelease the Olc-Glas and destroy the world. Every major hero and deitymakes an appearance'. Diana Paxson (b. 1943)The Chronicles of Westria Lady of Light Lady of Darkness Silverhair the Wanderer The Earthstone The Sea Star The Wind Crystal The Jewel of FireThe Golden Hills of Westria
An open-ended series. Patrick only recommends the first two books(which are also available as a single volume Lady of Light, Lady ofDarkness), adding that the follow-ups were 'lacking that special something.'There was a gap of fifteen years between the recent publication of Golden Hills and the prior book. Her most recent works have been continuations of Marion Zimmer Bradley's Avalon series.Wodan's Children The Wolf and the Raven The Dragons of the Rhine The Lord of Horses
A little Germanic mythology here as Paxson takes a look at Siegfried'sstory.The Hallowed Isle The Book of the Sword The Book of the SpearThe Book of the CauldronThe Book of the Stone
A new series from Paxson that is yet another take on the Arthurlegend.MervynPeake (1911-1968)The Gormenghast Trilogy Titus Groan Gormenghast Titus Alone
A classic. Bizarre and hypnotic, Peake creates an astonishing worldin the first two books. The third book should be avoided. It was writtenafter Peake became ill, and it is very different in tone (and ability)than the first two.Meredith Ann Pierce (b. 1958)The Darkangel Trilogy The Darkangel A Gathering of Gargoyles The Pearl of the Soul of the World
Excellent fantasy that is unfortunately hard to find. U.S. readerscan purchase it as a single volume from the Science Fiction Book Club.Fans of Patricia McKillip may want to make a special effort to track thisdown.The Firebringer Trilogy The Birth of the Firebringer Dark Moon The Son of Summer Stars
Very good young adult series about unicorns. In Firebringer"...the unicorn society is well- developed for the length and reader-ageof the books: they have their own mythology/historical songs, religion,enemies..." says HeatherRichard Pini (b. 1950) & Wendy Pini (b.1951)Elfquest series Elfquest: The Quest Begins Elfquest: Journey to Sorrow's End many others
Graphic novels (you know - comic books for adults who don't wantto admit they still read comic books). This has turned into a shared worldseries.TimPowers (b. 1952)The Drawing of the Dark
Powers' earliest fantasy, and I'm told that it is back in print.A different look at the Arthur legend (in 16th century Vienna, of all places).The Anubis Gate
All of Powers' books are great, but this is my favorite. The bookthat made his reputation. A wild romp through time with gypsies, Dog FacedJoe, a hideously evil clown, Egyptian gods, dopplegangers, a disguisedheroine, Samuel Coleridge and oh so much more. Try it. On Stranger Tides
Blackbeard and voodoo - oh my! The Stress of Her Regard
Those muses certainly are jealous mistresses... Last Call
The Fisher King in Las Vegas. Expiration Date
Yet Another Neat Book. This takes place in a modern Los Angelesmuch like our own, except that ghosts exist there. Earthquake Weather
Characters from both Last Call and Expiration Date appearin this novel. According to his editor, Powers "begs to inform theworld [that this] is the only time anyone will ever see anything remotelyresembling a series from him."Declare
Concerning British spy Kim Philby, and the supernatural story behindhis service to the Soviet Union.Three Days to Never
I can't resist quoting the book description: "When 12-year-old Daphne Marrity steals a videotape of Pee-Wee's Big Adventure from her grandmother's house, neither she nor her college-professor father, Frank Marrity, have any idea that the theft has drawn the attention of both the Israeli Secret Service and an ancient European organization of occultists -- or that within hours they'll be visited by her long-lost grandfather, who also wants that videotape. And when Daphne's teddy bear is stolen, and a blind assassin nearly kills her father, and a phantom begins to speak to her from a switched-off television set, Daphne and her father find themselves running for their lives through a southern California in which magic and the undead past are dangers as great as the guns of living assassins."The Lights Around the Shore (working title - forthcoming)
All that's known about this one is that it may be set in Victorial London. Also available from Powers is a short story collection titled Strange Itineraries and a chapbook of the novelette The Bible Repairman. **Terry Pratchett(b. 1948)Discworld titles follow
Your FAQmaker loves these books, and so do enough other a.f.e. readersto make him an official Highly Recommended Author. Humorous series, over15 books now, and recent books are as good as the first. The books divideup based on their main characters, but can all standalone (except the originalRincewind duology).Rincewind The Color of Magic The Light Fantastic Sourcery Eric Interesting Times The Last ContinentThe Last Hero
The first two are the duology that introduced Discworld. Rincewindis an incredibly incompetent wizard who gets mixed up with Discworld'sfirst tourist.Granny Weatherwax Equal Rites Wyrd Sisters Witches Abroad Lords and LadiesMaskeradeCarpe Jugulum
Granny Weatherwax and her fellow witches are the favorites of many Pratchettfans. Unlike Rincewind, Granny is FRIGHTENINGLY competent.Tiffany AchingThe Wee Free MenA Hat Full of SkyWintersmithWhen I Am Old I Shall Wear Midnight (forthcoming)
Granny Weatherwax appears in these, but the story belongs to young Tiffany Aching. Very enjoyable - there are supposed to be either at total of either four or five books about Tiffany. Death Mort Reaper Man Soul Music Hogfather
Yes, Death is a regularly appearing character, with a horse namedBinky and taste for curry.The Ankh-Morpork Watch Guards, Guards Men At Arms Feet of ClayJingoThe Fifth ElephantNightwatchThud
And then there's Carrot, the six-foot-tall dwarf (he's adopted),who has come to Ankh-Morpork to make his fortune. He ends up working forfor the Watch in Ankh-Morpork. These follow him and the fellow members of the watch. The focus of the series has changed over time to Sam Vimes, the head of Watch.Moist von Lipwig stories Going PostalMaking Money
Now that there are two novels following his adventures, Moist gets his own listing.Moving Pictures Pyramids Small GodsThe TruthThief of TimeThe Monstrous RegimentUnseen Academicals (forthcoming Oct. 2009)
These are all standalones about Discworld, and all good. Good Omens (with Neil Gaiman)
NOT a Discworld book, this one is about the End Of The World.Byron Preiss (1953-2005) and J. Michael Reaves(b. 1950)Dragonworld
Preiss is best known as an editor and publisher, but he produceda fantasy in the late 70's that Keith really likes. Apparently there isalso a game based on this book, so it may be more readily available thanits 1979 publication would indicate.E. Hoffman Price (1898-1988)The Devil Wives of Li-Fong
The Jade Enchantress
Two unrelated novels set in a fantasy version of China.Philip Pullman (b. 1946)His Dark Materials The Golden Compass ('Northern Lights' in the U.K.) The Subtle Knife The Amber Spyglass
Genevive says that 'these books are in the category of don't putdown until they're done. The first book was involving and substantive...thesecond book took the story line down an entirely different road...but onethat fits so perfectly.'Howard Pyle (1853-1911)The Story of King Arthur and His Knights
Classic retelling of Arthur by the famous illustrator. Despite being90 years old, this book is readily available in libraries, and in the U.S.Dover Publications has a lovely trade paperback edition with Pyle's originalillustrations. He wrote several other books covering further tales, andhe also has a great retelling of the Robin Hood story.
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