Young adult fantasy has reached a new level over the past few years. Although it has always represented a step further from what we know as fantasy, the genre has more capacity to push the limits of our creativity and imagination. 2019 has brought in plenty of good books from reputable authors – both known and less known. This list will introduce you to the best YA fantasy books 2019 – great additions to your collection.
Graceling by Kristin Cashore
Graceling by Kristin Cashore
Graceling deserves to be one of the most famous fantasy book of 2019. It is more than just fighting in the seven kingdom, it is about the deepest secrets of human nature. It is a wonderful book worth a read.
King of Scars by Leigh Bardugo
King of Scars by Leigh Bardugo
Well, Leigh Bardugo has some amazing books, and this one is no different. The beginning of this book is slow paced, but after we take some lilt, the story will bring us to a thrilling “roller-coaster”. We found a lot of connections to The Grisha Trilogy so it is recommended to start with that series before you start the King of Scars.
The Wicked King by Holly Black
The Wicked King by Holly Black
There are a lot of twists and turns in this fantasy book. This is the second book of “The Folk of the Air Book” series and the story just starts to unfold. The Wicked King is a seriously a good story with some very postive and (also) negative figures. We are really expacting a good final in this series, where everyone gets what they deserve.
Sherwood by Meagan Spooner
Everyone is familiar with Robin Hood, but Meagan Spooner’s Sherwood comes with an interesting twist. Robin of Locksley dies in the crusades, so the world needs a new hero. While it looks like Guy of Gisborne is about to take over, Maid Marian decides to take action and do something about it. There is lots of adventure that you may already be familiar with, but also a good story with Maid Marian as the main character.
There Will Come a Darkness by Katy Rose Pool
Katy Rose Pool may not be the most popular author out there, but her first novel – There Will Come a Darkness – is easily one of the best YA fantasy books 2019. The story follows the Seven Prophets, which have guided the world through both good and bad. But then, at some point, they disappear, leaving room for the last prophecy. The prophecy talks about a new prophet, whose fate can go in two directions – save the world or totally destroy it. From this point on, readers are invited to enjoy a breathtaking adventure with five different characters, each with their own goods and bads.
The Merciful Crow by Margaret Owen
The action in The Merciful Crow takes place in a kingdom with twelve different castles. Each of them is named after a bird and has a few unique characteristics. Once you become familiar with the place, you will follow the adventure of three characters – Jasimir, Tavin and Fie. They end up together in unusual circumstances, but no matter how different they are, their adventure will most likely hook you in right away.
Furthermore by Tahereh Mafi
Furthermore is a fantastic world where color means everything. The story follows Alice, a special girl born in a colorful world, but with some special abilities that make her different. She is given a quest during the Surrender festivities – a great plot for what is about to happen. Some would compare this book to The Never Ending Story, but it goes a bit further than that. It might be a bit childish at times, but it is still one of the best YA fantasy books 2019.
Descendant of the Crane by Joan He
Joan He’s first novel is about intrigue, deception, politics and magic. The story follows Princess Hesina of Yan’s adventure, as she tries to find out who killed her father by breaking local laws. The intriguing story takes you out of the classic American and European fantasy style and pushes you a bit further east – a great read for quiet afternoons.
Bottom line, these are the best YA fantasy books 2019 based on world recognition and reviews. Sure, the list can go on, but these should be your main priorities if you love the genre.