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I fidgeted a whole lot before I read my very first fantasy novel and that’s because I was worried about the length, and aside from that most fantasy books aren’t standalone, and for someone with a short attention span like me, this can be terribly hellish.
So, I’ve rounded up these super short and very interesting fantasy novels that you can finish in less than a day, and I guarantee they’ll keep you totally hooked.
1. Stardust by Neil Gaiman (248 pages)
Young Tristran ventures into the mysterious lands beyond his village’s wall to capture a fallen star for his beloved.
But, the enchanted realm of Faerie proves to be far different from his expectations.
2. Three Parts Dead by Max Gladstone (336 pages)
Tara, an associate at a necromantic firm, is tasked with resurrecting a deceased god to prevent chaos in the city.
And this short fantasy novel takes place in a world where justice is a collective force, craftsmen fly on lightning bolts, and ethical lines blur.
3. The Emperor’s Soul by Brandon Sanderson (192 pages)
Shai, a skilled Forger condemned to death, is given a chance at life if she can create a new soul for the dying emperor.
Arguably one of the best fantasy novel writers of our age, this book blends magic, political intrigue, and the art of deception in a richly crafted fantasy world.
4. Legend by David Gemmell (345 pages)
Druss, a legendary warrior, comes out of retirement to defend a fortress against barbarian hordes.
5. Penric’s Demon by Lois McMaster (103 pages)
Lord Penric’s life changes when he inherits mysterious powers from a dying Temple divine, and this sets him on a perilous path in a fantasy world filled with envy and danger.
This short fantasy book has about 1o0 pages and it’s perfect for readers of any age and you’ll totally love it.
6. The Color of Magic by Terry Pratchett (228 pages)
Pratchett’s whimsical tale follows an inept wizard, a naive tourist, and dragons on a gleeful, eccentric expedition in a world carried on the back of a giant turtle.
7. Tea With The Black Dragon by R. A. MacAvoy (140 pages)
Martha, who is searching for her troubled daughter, collaborates with a Chinese man named Mayland Long who eventually falls in love with her.
This short fantasy romance novel is everything you need to read and it’s perfect from start to finish.
8. Piranesi by Susanna Clarke (272 pages)
As Piranesi collaborates with The Other on a quest for knowledge in his infinite house, a shocking truth emerges, and this reveals a reality beyond his familiar labyrinth.
9. The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman (195 pages)
A man returns to his childhood home, and this spakrs memories of a strange encounter with Lettie Hempstock and the unremembered past.
This is another fantastic must-read fantasy novel with less than 200 words that I loved a whole lot and I don’t doubt you’ll love as well.
10. The Black Tides of Heaven by Neon Yang (236 pages)
Twin siblings Mokoya and Akeha navigate a world of prophetic gifts, rebellion, and twisted schemes.
Akeha’s departure from the Protectorate leads to a compelling exploration of peace, rebellion, and the bond between siblings.
11. The Return of the Sorceress by Silvia Moreno-Garcia (104 pages)
In this short fantasy book, Yalxi, a deposed sorceress, wants to regain her powers and overthrow her usurper.
12. The Salt Grows Heavy by Cassandra Khaw (106 pages)
This fantasy novel revolves around a mermaid and a mysterious plague doctor who must survive a world where mermaid have teeth, daughters devour kingdoms, and ageless children thirst for blood.
How many of these short fantasy books will you read? These books are perfect if you want something short and sweet to read in one evening.
Happy reading!