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I don’t know about anyone else, but the very best types of fantasy books, in my opinion, are the ones that are whimsical at heart.
I’m talking wonky magic, quirky characters, and maybe even a cute and amazing plot thrown in.
I absolutely love these kinds of fantasy stories because they’re light-hearted while still having that chaotic, magical energy I always appreciate.
If that sounds like something you’d love too, then you’re in the right place – these are the books you’ll want to read.
In this post, I’ve shared some of my personal favorites: magical, feel-good fantasy reads I think everyone should try at least once.
And if you’re just getting into fantasy or the genre feels unfamiliar, this list is the perfect place to start.
Deathless by Catherynne M. Valente
This book feels like a dark, dreamy fairy tale wrapped in Russian history.
Marya Morevna goes from a clever little girl to the bride of the powerful Koschei the Deathless, a mythical villain.
It’s about magic, love, war, pain, and the pull of power.
I loved how it blends myth with real-life events like the Russian Revolution.
It’s deep and strange and beautiful, with house spirits, heartbreak, and haunting writing.
It’s not a fast read, but it stays with you.
If you like myth that bites back, you’ll find something special here.
Eva Evergreen, Semi-Magical Witch by Julie Abe
Eva is the kind of sweet and determined heroine I love.
She only has a pinch of magic, but she wants so badly to prove herself.
Her goal? Pass her witch test before her thirteenth birthday or lose her magic forever.
She sets up a magical repair shop in a cozy town, even though her spells are a bit wonky. But her kindness and creativity shine.
I found this story heartwarming and fun, like wrapping up in a soft blanket.
It’s got gentle humor, a lovely message about believing in yourself, and a little dash of adventure too.
Winter Rose by Patricia A. McKillip
Reading this book felt like falling into a beautiful, sad dream. Rois, wild and barefoot, is drawn to a mysterious man with a secret past.
There’s a family curse, a haunted estate, and whispers in the wind.
It’s not a plot-heavy book – it’s more about feelings, atmosphere, and the magic hiding just beneath the surface of everyday life.
The writing is like poetry – soft, haunting, and full of longing.
I loved the quiet magic and how it slowly wraps around you.
If you enjoy stories that feel like old fairy tales told in whispers, this one is a gem.
Caraval by Stephanie Garber
Caraval is like stepping into a magical carnival where nothing is what it seems.
Scarlett and her sister Tella escape their cruel father to join a mysterious game but then Tella vanishes, and Scarlett has to find her in a world full of tricks and illusions.
I had so much fun reading this!
It’s fast-paced, full of twists, and just the right amount of romantic. You’re never quite sure what’s real.
I loved the dreamy atmosphere, the sibling bond, and the magical riddles.
It’s a whimsical escape with lots of heart and a reminder to hold on to what matters most.
Midnight Bargain by C.L. Polk
This one pulled at my heart.
Beatrice wants to be a magician, but society expects her to marry and give up her magic.
She finds a rare book, makes a deal with a spirit, and ends up falling for a charming man who actually sees her.
I loved how this story mixes magic with real struggles, especially the choice between love and personal freedom.
It’s romantic, smart, and full of strong women trying to live on their own terms.
If you enjoy magical worlds with clever heroines and swoony moments, this one is a must-read.
Legends and Lattes by Travis Baldree
This book is pure comfort.
An orc named Viv quits her warrior life to open a coffee shop – yes, a coffee shop! – in a town where no one even knows what coffee is.
It’s cozy, warm, and full of cinnamon rolls and found family.
I adored how gentle and kind the story was, even when there were little bumps along the way.
It’s not about saving the world – it’s about starting over, building something from scratch, and finding your people.
If you ever wanted a fantasy that feels like a warm hug, this one is absolutely it.
How to Train Your Goblin King by Erin Vere
Floss is funny, clever, and definitely not looking to marry the Goblin King even if he’s ridiculously charming.
Her niece disappears, she has to deal with tricky labyrinths and oddball creatures, and there’s a growing threat in her world.
But the real heart of this book is how she stays strong, even when she’s unsure.
I laughed, swooned, and rooted for her the whole way through.
It’s witty, romantic, and just the right mix of magical mischief and heart.
If you like fairy tales with clever heroines and handsome, confusing goblin kings, you’ll love this one.
Half a Soul by Olivia Atwater
This one made me smile so much.
Dora lost half her soul to a faerie and now doesn’t feel fear or embarrassment, which is very awkward in Regency England.
She just wants to blend in, but when she meets the grumpy and brilliant Lord Sorcier, everything changes.
I loved how sweet and whimsical this was, with just a pinch of danger and a lovely slow-burn romance.
Dora’s quiet courage and Elias’s gruff kindness made such a perfect pair.
If you like cozy fantasy with a touch of Jane Austen and a sprinkle of fae magic, this will charm you completely.
Strange the Dreamer by Laini Taylor
This book felt like floating through a dream.
Lazlo, a soft-hearted librarian, has always wondered about a lost city called Weep.
When he finally gets the chance to go there, he discovers a place full of beauty, sorrow, and secrets.
I loved Lazlo’s gentle nature and his big, impossible dreams.
The writing is rich and magical, and the mystery kept me hooked.
And the girl in his dreams – well, she might just be real.
It’s a slow, thoughtful story about hope, wonder, and the power of stories.
If you like fantasy that feels like poetry, this one is unforgettable.
The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden
Vasilisa lives in the cold Russian countryside, where people once honored the spirits that protected them.
But when her stepmother stops these old ways, dark things begin to creep closer.
Vasilisa must fight to save her family – even if it means going against everyone she loves.
I was swept away by the snowy forests, the brave heroine, and the eerie folklore.
It felt like an old fairy tale told by the fire.
If you enjoy strong girls, wintry settings, and stories that feel ancient and magical, this is a beautiful place to begin.
Do you think you’ll be adding any of these lovely books to your TBR?
Let me know in the comments below – I’d love to hear your thoughts!
And I’m always open to recommendations, so don’t forget to share your favorite whimsical fantasy book with me too!
