Fantasy light novels are a popular subgenre of Japanese light novels that combine elements of fantasy and adventure. This genre usually has expansive worlds, with an assortment of different races from elves to dwarves. These novels often feature young protagonists who embark on epic quests and journies to other worlds or realms. Here in no particular order are 5 fantasy light novels you can read today.
“The Rising of the Shield Hero” by Aneko Yusagi
Publication run dates: 2013 – present
“The Rising of the Shield Hero” follows a college student named Naofumi Iwatani. Together with three other young men, Naofumi is summoned to a parallel universe destined to become a famous hero entrusted with defending the kingdom from monster hordes. Yet soon after being wrongly convicted of a crime and betrayed, Naofumi loses his reputation and the confidence of the populace.
Naofumi must learn to survive and prosper in this new world utilizing his talents and one-of-a-kind shield as a weapon to grow into a strong and well-liked hero.
“The Rising of the Shield Hero” is a good fantasy light novel because of its intricate world-building and character development. The series explores themes of betrayal, and uniquely portrays the main character’s rise to power in his quest for redemption.
Fan-favorite Character: Raphtalia, Naofumi’s slave-turned-companion, is a fan-favorite for her development from a timid and abused girl to a brave and loyal warrior. Her relationship with Naofumi is also a major factor in her popularity, as fans enjoy their dynamic and the trust they build between each other.
Volumes: 22
Copies sold: 5+ million
Anime adaptation: Yes
Manga adaptation: Yes
Video game adaptation: Yes
“Sword Art Online” by Reki Kawahara
Publication run dates: 2009 – present
With a huge fanbase worldwide, “Sword Art Online” is one of the most popular Japanese light novels out there. The story centers around male lead Kirito, a skilled gamer trapped in a virtual reality MMORPG that alongside his friends must fight through the game floors to survive and escape. Unfortunately for them, if you die in the game, there is no re-spawning.
If the initial premise doesn’t have you hooked, engaging writing, top-notch character development, and excellent world-building will pull you in for an unforgettable ride.
“Sword Art Online” is a good fantasy light novel for its unique blend of action and gaming elements. The world-building across the various floors in the game is excellent. Sprinkle in some good chemistry between the two main characters, and you got a heck of a fantasy story worth reading.
Fan favorite character: Asuna Yuuki. Asuna is a skilled warrior who quickly becomes a key player in the game, and her relationship with Kirito is one of the highlights of the series.
Volumes: 27
Copies sold: 26+ Million
Anime adaptation: Yes
Manga adaptation: Yes
Video game adaptation: Yes
“Death March to the Parallel World Rhapsody” by Hiro Ainana
Publication run dates: 2013 – present
“Death March to the Parallel World Rhapsody” follows the character Ichiro Suzuki. Ichiro is a game developer who suddenly finds himself transported to a strange fantasy world oddly resembling a game he was working on. After coming to his senses, he realizes that his otherworldly transit came with incredible powers and abilities.
Ichiro decides to explore this new world and make the most of his new life. He takes on the name of “Satou” and decides to travel and adventure through the different world, collecting allies and encountering various factions and characters. As he gains new abilities and powers, Ichiro begins to uncover the secrets of this new world and the political machinations that underlie it.
“Death March to the Parallel World Rhapsody” is a fun and lighthearted fantasy light novel series that explores the isekai genre.
Fan favorite character: Arisa, a young girl who joins Satou on his journey, is a fan favorite because of her cheerful and energetic personality.
Volumes: 18
Copies sold: N/A
Anime adaptation: Yes
Manga adaptation: Yes
Video game adaptation: Yes
“In Another World With My Smartphone” by Patora Fuyuhara
Publication run dates: 2013 – present
“In Another World With My Smartphone” follows the story of fifteen-year-old Touya Mochizuki. After being accidentally killed by a bolt of lightning, Touya is offered by god to reincarnate into a new world and grants him a single wish. Touya requests that he be allowed to keep his smartphone from his past life in this new world, and God grants his wish, additionally giving him great magical power to help him navigate the unfamiliar realm.
Touya soon finds himself in a wonderful world full of magic, where he meets various races of people. Throughout the series, Touya learns more about the political landscape of this new world and becomes involved in larger conflicts and conspiracies.
“In Another World With My Smartphone” is a fun and light-hearted fantasy light novel series that explores the isekai genre. The series has a unique premise and incorporates modern technology into a fantasy setting, making it an entertaining read.
Fan favorite character: Yumina, one of Touya’s love interests, is a fan favorite because of her kind and caring personality.
Volumes: 25
Copies sold: 1+ Million
Anime adaptation: Yes
Manga adaptation: Yes
Video game adaptation: No
“The Faraway Paladin” by Kanata Yanagino
Publication run dates: 2015 – present
“The Faraway Paladin” follows the journey of William, a young boy who is born and raised in the last remaining human stronghold in a world overrun by monsters. William is raised by three undead creatures who teach him about the world and how to fight against the monsters. Despite his strange upbringing, William possesses a pure heart and a strong sense of justice, which leads him to become the first human paladin in centuries.
With his new paladin status, William sets out to embark on a life-changing journey to explore the world and find the source of the monsters that now inhabit it.
“The Faraway Paladin” is a good fantasy light novel series that explores themes of morality and the power of faith.
Fan favorite character: Blood, is a fan favorite because of his stoic and mysterious personality.
Volumes: 7
Copies sold: N/A
Anime adaptation: Yes
Manga adaptation: Yes
Video game adaptation: No
Conclusion
Fantasy light novels are full of epic quests and memorable journeys that leave a lasting impression on readers. Start reading one today!
