Best Coming of Age Fantasy Books of 2025

Fairy Tale by Stephen King is a gripping dark fantasy novel about a teenager named Charlie Reade who inherits the keys to a parallel world where good and evil are at war. The story is a magnificent and terrifying tale in which a heroic boy and his dog lead the battle against overwhelming evil. King's storytelling in Fairy Tale is exceptional and delivers a unique and imaginative world that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. This book is a must-read for fans of dark fantasy books.

In the Lives of Puppets by TJ Klune is a fascinating LGBT fantasy fiction novel that takes readers on a unique journey. The story follows a family of robots and a human, living in a hidden home built in a forest, who embark on a dangerous journey to rescue their fatherly inventor android from his past. The book offers a blend of hard truths, humor, kindness, love, and hope. Klune's ability to weave humanity into his work and create such endearing characters is impressive. This book is a must-read for those who love Pinocchio, robots, and family adventures with a touch of the queer experience.

The Priory of the Orange Tree is a captivating high fantasy novel that features dragons, magic, political intrigue, and a cast of powerful women. The story revolves around three civilizations that have been shaped by their relationship with dragons. The Nameless One, an evil draconic leader, is threatening to return, and civilizations are rising and falling in the process. The book is a feminist masterpiece that breathes new life into the genre, and it is highly recommended for fans of fantasy books. The Priory of the Orange Tree is unique for its portrayal of women as powerful and influential characters in a genre that is traditionally male-dominated.

A Day of Fallen Night (The Roots of Chaos) is a stunning, standalone prequel to The Priory of the Orange Tree. The book takes readers back to the universe of Priory of the Orange Tree and into the lives of four women who must find the strength to protect humankind from a devastating threat. The author, Samantha Shannon, has created a world rich in intricate mythology, beautifully realized and complex, and placed at its heart bold and vivid characters. Highly recommended for those who enjoy epic fantasy novels with compelling plots, heartfelt relationships, and diverse representation.

The Name of the Wind, by Patrick Rothfuss, is an epic fantasy novel that follows the story of Kvothe, a legendary hero, as he tells his own tale of sorrow, survival, and search for meaning. With over 1 million copies sold, this book has received high praise from famous authors such as George R.R. Martin and Ursula K. Le Guin. The intricate and wondrous tale of Kvothe is beautifully written and filled with real characters and true magic. Overall, The Name of the Wind is a must-read for any fantasy lover, and its unique storytelling style and world-building make it stand out among other literary fiction books.

Watership Down by Richard Adams is a timeless classic that has captivated readers for over forty years. The story follows a band of rabbits as they struggle to survive in the face of human incursion and the destruction of their home. Led by two brave brothers, they embark on a perilous journey to a promised land and a better life. This book is a marvelous tale of rebellion, exile, and survival that will enchant readers of all ages. It is a must-read for anyone who loves adventure, suspense, and heartwarming stories of triumph over adversity.

The Hobbit: 75th Anniversary Edition is a classic prelude to J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings trilogy, featuring a hobbit named Bilbo Baggins. This deluxe hardcover edition contains a reset text with all of Tolkien's drawings and full-color illustrations. The story follows Bilbo on his journey to the Wild, encountering trolls, goblins, dwarves, and elves along the way. The book offers a glimpse into the history and politics of an important period, making it a flawless masterpiece. It is a must-read for those who love a well-told story with finely-imagined characters.

When Women Were Dragons by Kelly Barnhill is a gripping and timely feminist novel set in 1950s America. After the Mass Dragoning of 1955, where hundreds of thousands of ordinary women spontaneously transformed into dragons, the story follows young Alex Green as she navigates a world that wants to keep women small and silent. With a captivating storyline, powerful characters, and talon-sharp prose, Barnhill boldly explores themes of memory, rage, and the tyranny of forced limitations. This book is completely fierce, unmistakably feminist, and subversively funny, making it an exhilarating ride from beginning to end.

Icewind Dale: Rime of the Frostmaiden is a thrilling adventure book for Dungeons & Dragons enthusiasts. Set in the frozen tundra of Icewind Dale, players must face the challenges presented by the frostmaiden, Auril. The book offers a compelling storyline, unique monsters, and exciting encounters. As with all Dungeons & Dragons books, the world-building is top-notch, and the artwork is stunning. Wizards of the Coast has done an excellent job of creating an engaging adventure that will keep players on the edge of their seats. Overall, Icewind Dale: Rime of the Frostmaiden is a must-have for any D&D fan looking for an epic adventure.

Heart of the Sun Warrior is a captivating sequel to Daughter of the Moon Goddess, continuing the story of Xingyin and her battle against a grave new threat to the Celestial Kingdom. The book is a beautifully written tale of love, sacrifice, and hope, inspired by Chinese mythology. The author's melodic prose brings the gods and monsters to life, and the intricate dance of multiple quest lines, thrilling battles, romances, magic, and mythological creatures will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Overall, Heart of the Sun Warrior is a must-read for fans of cultural heritage fiction books, offering exquisite worldbuilding and emotional characters.