Okay, so I want to make sure we’re clear before diving in: this is not a list of the best fantasy books released in 2009, but rather the top books read and reviewed here at Fantasy Book News in 2009. That said, there are some newer books, and some classics, but overall this is an elite list of fantasy novels that any avid reader should check out. And away we go.
A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin
While this series is going on fifteen years, I gave a re-read to the first novel in the Song of Ice and Fire series in 2009, in audio book format. The book still has the same enchanting effect as the first time I read it, and is still the standard to which I compare most other fantasy books, and absolutely any epic fantasy books. Check out the full review of A Game of Thrones.
Red Seas Under Red Skies by Scott Lynch
The second book in Lynch’s seven book Gentlemen Bastards series delivered what many creative people struggle to accomplish time and time again: give the audience a better experience than the original. Red Seas Under Red Skies upped the stakes from The Lies of Locke Lamora, and hit ended up hitting a grand slam. Read the full review of Red Seas Under Red Skies.
The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
This whopping freshman fantasy novel by Rothfuss completely transports you to another world, which is one of the goals that every fantasy novel aspires to. Believe me, I read most of it while lounging poolside in Araxa, Brazil, and I can’t tell you how many times I forgot my beautiful surroundings for the world that Rothfuss creates. Check out the full review of The Name of the Wind.
The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle
The quintessential fairy tale, The Last Unicorn is simply a beautiful story. Get lost in a world of fantasy and magic, complimented with a fantastically original plot and a genuine sense of humor. Read the full review of The Last Unicorn.
Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson
Mistborn is an absolutely beautiful novel. Its got everything that a fantasy reader looks for: insanely original devices, characters you can identify with, tons of action, and wholesome undercurrents. We have a full review of Mistborn over here.
The Lies of Locke Lamora
Not falling to far behind the second novel in this series is The Lies of Locke Lamora. Lynch’s city of Camorr is a truly devilish one, and creates the perfect backdrop for the thieving ways of his characters to thrive. Redefining exactly what is knows as ‘action fantasy’, Lynch’s debut is definitely not one to be missed. Check out our full review of The Lies of Locke Lamora.
Ship of Magic by Robin Hobb
Another truly original idea is explored with fantastic characterization. Plus, who doesn’t like a novel with pirates? Check out our full review of Ship of Magic.
Swordspoint by Ellen Kushner
The oldest book on our list is certainly not any less of a quality read. Kushner’s ability with conversation is unmatched. If you’re up for a fast paced sword dueling adventure, this one is for you. Read our full review of Swordspoint.
Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman
The final two books on our top 10 list for 2009 belong to the urban fantasy genre. Neverwhere is perhaps the benchmark for all current urban fantasy, and is a classic fantasy read. Sort of a modern take on Alice in Wonderland. Check out our full review of Neverwhere.
Storm Front by Jim Butcher
Arguably the reigning urban fantasy king, Storm Front is the first in Jim Butcher’s uber-popular Dresden Files series. Storm Front is an extremely fast-paced hilarious take on the genre. Read our full review of Storm Front.
by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson
by Charlaine Harris
by Stephanie Meyer
by Charlaine Harris
by Charlaine Harris
