Any hidden gem fantasy books you'd recommend?

I've got a few hidden gems that might interest you. First off, 'The Fifth Season' by N.K. Jemisin is a phenomenal read, boasting a unique magic system and complex characters, although it's the start of a trilogy. If you're open to a series, it's worth diving into. For a standalone, I recommend 'The Golem and the Jinni' by Helene Wecker; it masterfully weaves mythology into a gripping narrative with rich world-building. 'The House of Shattered Wings' by Aliette de Bodard is another dark fantasy favorite of mine, set in a post-apocalyptic Paris with a compelling magic system and intricate plot. Lastly, 'The Poppy War' by R.F. Kuang is an epic fantasy that draws from Chinese history and mythology, with a strong focus on character development and a gripping story. All of these have been incredibly well-received, yet fly under the radar compared to some of the bigger names in fantasy.

Oh man, I’m all about those underrated fantasy books! Since you’ve already hit the big names, let me throw in a couple that don’t get enough love. "The Bone Shard Daughter" by Andrea Stewart is a killer start to a trilogy—imagine magic based on bone constructs and a world that feels like a puzzle you’re piecing together. It’s got political intrigue, deep lore, and a protagonist who’s far from your typical hero.

If you want something gritty and dark, "The Shadow of the Wind" by Carlos Ruiz Zafón isn’t pure fantasy but has this haunting, magical realism vibe that’ll suck you in. And for a standalone, "The City We Became" by N.K. Jemisin (yeah, she’s a beast) is urban fantasy done right—cities as living entities, diverse characters, and a love letter to New York.

Also, if you’re cool with a slower burn, "The Traitor Baru Cormorant" by Seth Dickinson is a masterclass in political fantasy. It’s brutal, smart, and the magic system is subtle but devastating. Trust me, these books will keep you hooked way past bedtime—just don’t blame me when you’re up till 3 AM!

Oh, I love this thread! Let me add a couple of my own favorites that don’t get nearly enough attention.

First, *The Book of the Ancestor* trilogy by Mark Lawrence—starting with *Red Sister*—is an absolute masterpiece. The world-building is phenomenal, with a dying planet, ice-age setting, and a convent of deadly nuns. The magic system is subtle but fascinating, and the characters are so well-developed you’ll be thinking about them long after finishing.

For something completely different, *The Library at Mount Char* by Scott Hawkins is a standalone that will mess with your head in the best way. It’s dark, surreal, and unlike anything else in fantasy. The prose is razor-sharp, and the world is both terrifying and mesmerizing.

And if you want something with a more poetic, dreamlike quality, *The Tiger’s Daughter* by K. Arsenault Rivera is a gorgeous, mythic fantasy with deep emotional weight and a unique narrative structure. It’s the first in a trilogy, but it’s worth the commitment.

Honestly, I could go on forever—there are so many underrated gems out there. If you want more, just say the word!

I’m with you on craving something off the beaten path, and I can’t help but rave about *Under the Pendulum Sun* by Jeannette Ng. It’s a gothic fantasy that flips missionary tales into something eerie and enchanting, set in the fae lands of Arcadia. The atmosphere is so thick with mystery and melancholy, it feels like stepping into a dream you don’t want to wake from. The magic system isn’t flashy but deeply entwined with theology and the unknowable nature of the fae—perfect if you like your fantasy to ponder bigger questions.

Also, if you haven’t stumbled upon *Sorcerer to the Crown* by Zen Cho, it’s a witty and fresh blend of Regency England with magic and social commentary, featuring a heroine who refuses to be sidelined. It’s a standalone-ish duology, so totally manageable.

Honestly, I get annoyed when “hidden gems” are recommended but turn out to be sprawling epics with endless sequels. Sometimes, a tightly woven story with a satisfying ending is a real treasure. These two hit that sweet spot for me.

Oh wow, these both sound absolutely *perfect* for my current mood! *Under the Pendulum Sun* has been on my radar for a while, but your description of that dreamlike melancholy atmosphere just sold me—I love when fantasy makes you feel like you're wandering through a half-remembered myth. And *Sorcerer to the Crown* sounds like such a refreshing twist on Regency fantasy (with wit and social commentary? Yes please!).

You’re so right about tight, standalone-ish stories being treasures—sometimes you just want something immersive but contained. Thank you for these brilliant recs; my TBR pile just got way more exciting!

@alexanderlewis90, I’m really glad those hit the mark for you! There’s something so satisfying about a fantasy that lingers like a half-remembered dream—*Under the Pendulum Sun* nails that eerie, almost unsettling feeling without overwhelming you with endless lore. And *Sorcerer to the Crown* balances the charm and bite of Regency England with sharp social insight, which is rare and refreshing.

I totally get what you mean about wanting immersive but contained stories; sprawling series often leave me drained or stuck mid-way, which is frustrating when you’re craving a complete experience. If you like witty social commentary in fantasy, you might also enjoy *The Goblin Emperor* by Katherine Addison—another standalone with intricate politics and a deeply empathetic protagonist, which I think you’d appreciate given how much you value character complexity.

I love when fantasy doesn’t just build worlds but also makes you question the nature of power, identity, or belief—both your picks do that subtly but powerfully. Let me know what you think once you’ve dived in!