Author's spotlight

 SPOTLIGHT ON FANTASY NOVEL AUTHORS

Fantasy novels have captivated readers for generations, transporting them to magical realms and extraordinary adventures. Among the countless authors who have contributed to this enchanting genre, a few stand out for their exceptional storytelling and imaginative worlds. In this blog post, we will explore the top three fantasy novel writers whose works have left an indelible mark on literature and continue to inspire readers worldwide

1. Brandon Sanderson

Brandon Sanderson is one of the most renowned modern fantasy authors, celebrated for several reasons.

First, there's the Cosmere, Sanderson's expansive fictional universe connecting most of his works, including Elantris, Mistborn, The Stormlight Archive, and Trees of the Emerald Sea.

He's also famous for completing Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time series after Jordan passed away. Hand-picked by Jordan's wife, Harriet McDougal, Sanderson used Jordan's notes to deliver a satisfying conclusion to the saga.

Sanderson is highly regarded for supporting aspiring writers through his Writing Excuses podcast and free creative writing lectures on YouTube. His "Sanderson's Laws of Magic describe the difference between"hard " and"soft " magic in speculative fiction, guiding authors on how to integrate magic effectively into storytelling.

Perhaps most impressive is Sanderson's prolific output. In less than two decades, he's published 31 novels, 18 novellas, four graphic novels, and numerous short stories.

Love him or hate him, Brandon Sanderson has become the face of modern fantasy literature, inspiring writers of all kinds to write more. His extensive body of work and influential ideas have made him an iconic figure in contemporary fantasy.

• Primary genres: Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Young Adult

• Debut novel: Elantris (2005)

• Notable works: Mistborn: The Final Empire (2006), The Way of Kings (2010), Steelheart (2013), Skyward (2018), Tress of the Emerald Sea (2023)

2. Neil Gaiman

How could we not include Neil Gaiman? With works like American Gods, Stardust, and The Graveyard Book under his belt, he's easily one of the most uniquely creative fantasy writers out there today.

And what's more impressive is that he doesn't just stick to traditional novels, novellas, and short stories.

Gaiman's talents have served the world in many forms, including comic books (The Sandman), graphic novels (Norse Mythology), illustrated children's books (Coraline). He's even read four of his own audiobooks!

Neil Gaiman's works often involve identity as a core theme, while engaging with other prominent themes like belonging, family, the nature of evil, and supernatural entities in the real world.

• Primary genres: Fantasy, Horror, Sci-Fi

• Debut novel: Good Omens (1990)

• Notable works: Stardust (1999), American Gods (2001), Coraline (2002), The Graveyard Book (2008), The Ocean at the End of the Lane (2013), Norse Mythology (2017)

3. Sarah J. Maas

Sarah J. Maas is a huge name in the fantasy genre right now. You might know her for either Throne of Glass or A Court of Thorns and Roses, which are her two most successful series.

She's currently wrapping up her acclaimed Crescent City series, which started with House of Earth and Blood in 2020 and blew everyone away. It's one of the highest-rated modern fantasy series on Goodreads!

And why wouldn't it be? Sarah J. Maas has the incredible talent of writing stories that are fun to read, led by strong female characters, with elements of romance woven in without being overly tropey.

• Primary genres: Fantasy, Romance, Young Adult

• Debut novel: Throne of Glass (2012)

•  Notable works: A Court of Thorns and Roses (2015), House of Earth and Blood (2020)

These three authors have not only defined modern fantasy literature but also inspired countless readers and writers with their imaginative worlds and compelling narratives.