I've always said that Lord of the Rings would always be my favorite as well. Then I read Malazan twice and it changed my life.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Life-changing is how I would describe both series!

@lennart2722

3 жыл бұрын

same for me, and I only read it once

@coachmikesfilmroom3111

3 жыл бұрын

For me it's the Dark Tower

@DavidCM11

3 жыл бұрын

The prince of nothing trilogy definitely has changed everything re dark fantasy to me

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

@@DavidCM11 I’m looking forward to reading it!

"... if Tolkein baptised my imagination, then i would say the malazan world had set it free..." Such powerful a quote can only be said by a man like you philip, well said.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you, Javad! I truly appreciate your participation in the channel!

@MajinBadat

2 жыл бұрын

I couldn't get into that series at all, and I've tried 3 times.

I read Earthsea when I was in 7th grade, backnin about 2002. I was the third person to have checked it out since 1969. It was a personal copy of my Librarians, Liv. Such a wonderful woman, she was so excited when I brought the books up, she almost cried. Apparently she had been waiting nearly 20 years for somebody to check it out.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

That’s a beautiful story, though it’s sad she had to wait so long!

@POTATOEMPN

2 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I had to read the books few times to really get what was being said in the story. As you said, the story touches on a few very heavy topics, and just presents them in a completely different way. I also watched that Earthsea mini-series a while back, and I loved their visual depiction of their meal hall! It was so beautiful.

@Far_a_mir

6 ай бұрын

What a sweet memory!

I have a friend that can't comprehend the appeal of grimdark stories, and you just summarized everything I like about them in your comment about Prince of Thorns: "It is all about putting your boots on and strapping on your sword and facing a hostile world that wants to deny your meaning, and your job is to carve meaning out of that world while you are here. And you may ultimately succumb, you may ultimately lose this battle, but the virtue is in facing it with as much courage as you can master." I'll be waiting for 2022's top 10.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Alejandro! I'm glad that spoke to you. Grimdark is perhaps one of the most misunderstood and underappreciated genres. I certainly appreciate what authors like Lawrence and Abercrombie have done for me.

@masonmills4033

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy wow reading your quote just gave me chills. Are your videos scripted or was that just off the top of the head? Either way damn good vid.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

@@masonmills4033 Thanks, Mason! I make it up as I go along. This is likely the result of blabbing to my students for years and years!

@z1205

2 жыл бұрын

Damn 🔥

I am greatly encouraged that you have N.K. Jemisin not only in your list but high up where she belongs. I love your channel, thanks for bringing energy, life, excitement, but also thoughtfulness.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

Жыл бұрын

Thank you, Nicholas! Jemisin’s Broken Earth Trilogy is a masterpiece and excites me because it’s a wonderful example of how fantasy can be a vehicle for exploring important experiences and issues. It’s also a beautifully told story. Cheers!

Wonderful list! You spoke so beautifully about what you love in each series and what inspires you. The way you described Tolkien as baptizing your imagination and Erikson as setting it free reminded me of Kant's aesthetic philosophy regarding "beauty" and "the sublime." Beauty is associated with "boundedness" whereas the sublime is "boundlessness." It just seemed so fitting, especially as A.P. recently described Malazan as sublime, and here you described Tolkien as beautiful. Those thoughts came up for me, and I just had to share.

@Johanna_reads

3 жыл бұрын

I should have added that those two aesthetic experiences perfectly compliment each other, so those two series have a perfect place in the top two spots!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Johanna -- I had to stand here with my mouth hanging open for a while before I could reply. That's perhaps the best comment I've ever read. Beauty and boundedness complementing the sublime and boundlessness. Now I feel like reading Kant!

@Johanna_reads

3 жыл бұрын

​@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I'm so glad that resonated for you. I'll email you the excerpt I got this from!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

@@Johanna_reads Thank you!

LotR was my entry into fantasy. I remember a part time job I had in an electrical warehouse when I was young, It was cold in that place. Which was great! Because my jacket had big pockets which hid the book and then I could read it when no one was looking! Malazan is for me not just incredible fantasy, but also, it stands up as a literary masterpiece. This is the series which is shining a beacon for fantasy to step out of the shadows of mainstream 'literature' Great stuff Philip I always enjoy your videos!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you! Your youthful devotion to reading made me smile, probably because hiding my book in the big pockets is something I would have done too. Beautifully said about Malazan, and thanks so much for watching!

This is a great list! I have been afraid of the Malazan series for a while (they are very long, and I have the tendency to latch onto books till they are finished), but after your recommendations I will definitely give them a go. What I really appreciate in your reviews is that you also give importance to form. Plot, character arcs, magic system, worldbuilding - ok, these are important, but to me, the beautiful, thoughtful prose is more important. Literature, no matter what genre, should have aesthetic value. No matter how compelling a story is, if the language is lacking, it just gives me no pleasure.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you! Prose is crucial for me too, and Erikson makes my shortlist of fantasy authors with brilliant writing on the sentence to sentence level. The fact that he’s a graduate of the Iowa Writers’ Workshop probably doesn’t hurt, but you can tell he’s steeped in great literature and writes fantasy as such. As for reading Malazan, I think of it as a long term journey to be taken one step at a time. The two most transformative reading experiences of my life have been in Middle-Earth and the Malazan world.

“Tolkien baptized my imagination” is such a fantastic quote. And so true! I can’t imagine moving it from my number one, but I also haven’t read Malazan yet, so perhaps that will change. I agree with so many of your points here and felt that you championed your favourites so effectively. Hobb’s psychological exploration really is unparalleled. I was mesmerized by how accurately she portrayed Fitz’s trauma, his isolation, and his struggle with depression. (RF Kuang also gave us an incredibly nuanced portrait of a character who had suffered early childhood trauma and I’m very interested to see what she writes next). Thanks for fantastic video!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Sarah! I’ll be keen to hear your thoughts on Malazan if you read it!

Robin Hobb is a genius when it comes to getting the reader’s emotional investment in her characters. No spoilers but at the end of the very last RoTE book i sobbed and sobbed and felt so many emotions at once. No other book, or series, has done that to me since Charlotte’s Web when I was a child.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

Beautifully said, and I can’t wait to get to the end of that incredible journey by finishing all the books in The Realm of the Elderlings.

@madzy15

2 жыл бұрын

I remember being on a bus reading that ending and openly weeping. It hit me hard.

@dreamsaluminium

2 жыл бұрын

i didn't cry at the end. i cried somewhere quite early on. i just wasn't ready for the magnitude of emotions she can make you feel.

@brandonbowden1262

2 жыл бұрын

Robin Hobb is really good. Love the Liveships such a neat concept.

@earlpipe9713

2 жыл бұрын

Oh yeah, she's the best at putting her characters through the meatgrinder for maximum emotional payoff

The lord of the rings will always be the dearest to my heart but when I first read Erikson's malazan I was blown away. The most incredible work I've ever read.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

They are both sublime works of literature that will be seared into my mind until my dying day. Cheers, Curtis!

This is a great list! I also love Hobb’s prose as well. There’s something hypnotic about it. It’s beautiful and yet reads very easily. There’s nothing like it. The same for me with NK Jemisin’s and Ursula le Guin now that I think about it. Great list!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Jason! Beautiful prose is definitely something I fall for every time.

Great list and all the one's I've read I agree deserve their place on the list. Malazan is so different, so refreshing, that for someone who had gotten so acclimated to the tropes of fantasy it was unspeakably amazing. There are so many things that could be added about the series. It truly is the platinum standard of epic fantasy. A step above in almost every way with a scope that is daunting to envision. I'm excited to finally finish the series this year, and then go on to read all the accompanying books that I've been eyeing for a decade now. Fun story, I saw your top fantasy series from last year recently and was like "Huh, no Malazan? That's weird." Without realizing you had read the series after having made the video.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Yes, it's been a great year of reading Malazan for me! I actually had read MBotF before making the video a year ago, and I both liked and respected it, but it's the effort I put into preparing for the reread and the reread so far that have made the difference in how much more I appreciate the series. This time I am so much more immersed and more connected to the characters, so the emotional impact is indescribable.

@OrionSupergan

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I've said many times that the second time through Malazan is even better than the first. Once you can stop questioning what is happening and why, and just observe... the experience undergoes a transcendence.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

@@OrionSupergan So true!

You remind me so much of one of my favorite professors in college!! I love your energy and enthusiasm for these books. Definitely adding everything on here to my TBR list 😁

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you! I hope you’ll enjoy any of them that you pick up - they’ve given me a lot of contemplation and beauty over the years.

You always get me amped up to dig into new series! Thanks a bunch for all the hard work and the synopsis.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

My pleasure, and thank you for watching and commenting!

Your passion and enthusiasm for these books is contagious. Great as always! :)

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you! I appreciate you watching and offering the kind words!

Great list. My list would be different of course, but I love anyone who expresses their opinion with such passion and thought and without even a hint of judgment on others who disagree. You've given me inspiration for some re-reads.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you, John! I appreciate the kind words. Putting down other people’s favorites to make my own seem superior seems like childish bullying to me. It’s a big world with lots of stories for all sorts of people and occasions. My very best to you for your reading!

Erickson sure took Gandalf's "Death is just another path" speech quite literally.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Ha ha ha! You could say that! 😁

@tokenblack7983

3 жыл бұрын

I play that scene constantly on KZread. Far green country.....

I wholeheartedly agree with you about the Malazan series. Erikson and Esslemont write so fantastically, and I just gobbled up the books, they literally blew my mind with the characters, world building and imagination. Malazan is so close to my heart and your reflections around it mirrors my own. Great video and great channel!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you, Martin! I love hearing from fellow Malazan fans. You can tell when someone has been moved by Malazan in a way that is similar to what you have experienced, but it’s difficult to put that feeling into words. The best word I know to describe it is “sublime”. My best to you!

@Praetorian_Rex

2 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Thank you! Sublime is a great word to describe a series which otherwise is hard to describe and really only can be experienced.

You describe the books in such a beautiful way. So light, peaceful and, at the same time, so profound. I’ve started following your channel yesterday and I’m delighted to see your unique contribution to the booktube community. 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽✨💫 Sending hugs and goodvibes from Brazil 🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷🤩💫✨

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you, Luisa! I deeply appreciate your kind words, and it makes me happy to hear that you found this video enjoyable. It’s wonderful that book lovers from all over can share their passion on the KZread platform. My very best to you and your loved ones in Brazil!

New viewer (and now fan) here who found your channel from Mike’s Book Reviews! I would’ve loved to have taken your fantasy class back when I was in college! I’ll be interested to hear your take on the end of the Dark Tower. I absolutely loved it but understand the divisiveness. Keep up the great content!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Mike is a gentleman in the best sense of the word. Fantasy Novels has been a joy to teach, especially the conversations with my students. I’m looking forward to finding out about that Dark Tower ending, I hope by the end of this summer, and I hope to hear your thoughts on the series as I progress. Welcome to the channel, and thanks for saying hello!

We talked about this a couple of times, but we have so much overlap in our favorites, that I feel like I can blindly trust you, when you recommend a series. Broken Earth and Earthsea I have yet to start and I'm really excited. Your love for First Law and Broken Empire encouraged me to stick with these series and I've slowly come to love them, too. Likewise I can't wait to hear your thoughts on those 3 series I always keep throwing at you! Always a pleasure. Thanks, Chase-sensei

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much, Marc! I can say the same to you. In fact, based on your love of those three series, I'm confident I'm going to love them. It's always great to hear from you!

Your channel is making me move Malazan up my list! Thanks for sharing all your thoughts on these great books. I look forward to your Second Apocalypse and Book of the New Sun videos. They are both difficult and beautiful!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Based on what I’ve heard, I’m looking forward to reading both Bakker and Wolfe. I hope you’ll enjoy Malazan, and thanks for watching!

The thing that amazed me about Erikson's writing was that even when you think your sympathies have been exhausted, he delivers a gut-punch that you cannot forget. Corporal List's despondent observation: "Children are dying", or Picker's sarcastic response to Lady Envy's question; "Will this take long?"

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Beautifully said, Andrew! Those moments are trademark Malazan, and they are one of the features that elevate this series into sublime literature.

@jamiereid7428

2 жыл бұрын

Damn, I STILL feel that gut punch just reading this comment. Also Dujeks simple “I have lost a friend” absolutely killed me.

Enjoyed your list. Most of them I have read and would be on my top ten. I am 70 years old and read Tolkien when I was 16 and it changed my life so it will always be #1. I was glad to see Robin Hobb, she doesn't get enough love in my opinion. The Broken Earth was a happy discovery fantasy is not dead. I will have to try some I have not read so thanks.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

I’m glad you enjoyed the list! I was pretty sure my favorite of all time would never change from Lord of the Rings, but of course I still love it. I hope you’ll enjoy any possible new ones you might try!

The Fool from Robin Hobbs books is one of my favorite characters in literature. I feel so much for that character every time I reread her books. If you've not read The Tawny Man trilogy and Fitz and the Fool, you definitely shood. It adds so much depth to the character.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Dan! I already love the Fool, and I’m sure I will even more as I progress in The Realm of the Elderlings later this year.

@wronggeometry

Жыл бұрын

The final trilogy was pretty much a perfect reading experience for me. Cherished every moment and 2 years on I'm still thinking about it all the time.

@Far_a_mir

6 ай бұрын

I've only read Assassins Apprentice so far but the Fool definitely intrigued me.

No fantasy collection is complete without a few Discworld novels, written by Sir Terry Pratchett. Quick witted, funny, and great comentary and a mirror of our world and human interactions.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

I thoroughly enjoyed the two Discworld books I’ve read so far, and I’ll be reading more!

This has becom my favourite book channel, seriously great stuff, I'm trying to become a bit more well read in fantasy before i tackle malazan, but i can't wait to watch your content on it when i finally do!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much! I appreciate your encouragement, and I'd love to hear your thoughts on Malazan when you get there!

The Realm of the Elderlings is number one for me, and I'm glad to see it on your list and hear your thoughts. Great ranking! :)

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much! I can’t wait to finish Realm of the Elderlings!

@heathwitch

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy You have quite a journey ahead of you! I wish I could read it again for the first time.

@nemi7916

2 жыл бұрын

I tried the first book before and dropped the series because its.. kinda boring? should i pick it up?

@heathwitch

2 жыл бұрын

@@nemi7916 Keep at it! It's a slow start but so worth it. The series is a sprawling character-driven rollercoaster of emotions. If you can't get into Assassin's Apprentice, some folks recommend starting with the Liveship Traders trilogy (Ship of Magic, The Mad Ship, Ship of Destiny) first, then going back and reading the first three books (the Farseer Trilogy) after that, then continuing with Tawny Man. The whole series is made up of different trilogies and a quartet (plus a few short stories and a novella). The reading order for the main books is: Farseer - Liveships - Tawny Man - Rain Wilds - Fitz and the Fool. Good luck!

I've never clicked on a video faster. I was particularly interested to see how far Malazan has climbed from not being in the top 10 all the way to... #1! Wow! You're getting good at dramatics, Philip. That fake-out just before you announced the top spot was good. Almost had me for a second. I also couldn't agree with you more about Le Guin and her prose. I feel that Earthsea should actually be talked about more. I have been planning to get to Hobb and Jemisin too after I finish tackling Malazan and you've reconfirmed that I definitely need to. Thanks Philip!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Danny! I think I probably chuckled more than anyone else over my little fake-out near the end. Ha ha! Le Guin definitely deserves more attention on BookTube. At some point, I aim to reread the Earthsea series. I'm looking forward to your Malazan reactions and your eventual Hobb and Jemisin thoughts too!

Sauron ( aka Steven Erikson ) laughs maniacally - "at last, I've unseated LOTR from Phillip's best of fantasy list. That'll teach those mortal cockroaches for stealing my goddamn ring !"

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Ha ha ha! I never knew Sauron was such an excellent writer!

@jarltrippin

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Sauron failed his literary studies and decided to become a dark lord. Such a misunderstood figure smh.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

@@jarltrippin That explains everything! Failed academics can be bitter. Usually they become administrators (in other words, Sauron).

@sweetlard2113

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy As educators, I want you to know how loud the belly laugh this comment gave my wife and I was.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

@@sweetlard2113 I’m happy it gave you a laugh! Now, I better hope no administrators dig this far into the comments, or I’ll have some Nazgul after me.

Great list, Philip, but more than that, I really appreciated the explanations as to why. Thanks for the great list.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks, A.P.! I hope to discuss all these books with you at some point since I’d love to hear your thoughts on them.

@Danny_Matson

3 жыл бұрын

I wanna hear your Top 10, AP!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

@@Danny_Matson I’d vote for that!

Btw I greatly appreciate you being literally the only human I've ever come across in thousands of videos who says the name "Malazan" correctly as Erikson intends and pronounces himself..................

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Ha ha! I actually did not pronounce “Malazan” that way at first, but when I learned how Erikson pronounces it, I switched. I talked about it with Erikson when I interviewed him along with A.P. Canavan on my channel.

Now you've given me more of a reason to read Malazan. Wow, it unseated Lord of the Rings. The way you described Malazan as being funny, then having an intense battle sequence, then describing landscapes, whilst having beautiful prose reminded me of the way I think of Tolkien's writing. I'd heard Malazan had many series within it and I too find it really interesting that Steven and Ian created it after trying to make a roleplaying book like Dungeons & Dragons because my sister and I play D&D all the time. I feel behind on a lot of reading since I've started watching more booktube. I've been busy reading Stephen King. Dark Tower made your list; Yay! I personally love everything about Dark Tower but some do have issues with certain books. I heard though that readers who don't like book 1 often have to read book 2 to appreciate Dark Tower but if you do like book 1, as you and I do, then you'll really like the series so your in a good place so far. If you need King suggestions for after or during Dark Tower I'd suggest The Eyes of the Dragon and/or The Talisman for you. I think of them as fantasy books but The Eyes of the Dragon is called a fairy tale by King himself. I do suggest reading The Stand before The Eyes of the Dragon though so that makes it a much longer read. The Stand is classified as a horror book but is also very epic like a fantasy book would be.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much! In fact, the first King book I intend to read after Dark Tower is The Stand. I have my eyes (sorry) on The Eyes of the Dragon too. If you give Malazan a try, I’d love to hear your thoughts. It’s only series I know that approaches the level of quirkiness, bizarreness, and surprise that we get in Dark Tower. Erikson and Esslemont just go for it. Cheers!

Love your descriptions of why you love these books . I’m at the stage where “Lord of the Rings will always be my number 1 right now. But I have yet to read Malazan . I have been seeing so many people gush over it emphatically that I’m convinced now to read it. Been sat on my shelves for far too long gathering dust . Awesome video man

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

Жыл бұрын

Thank you! If you give Malazan a try, I hope you’ll enjoy it. It’s a long journey with tremendous payoff. All the best!

Really glad that you start the video by defining the criteria for hitting the list. This really minimizes the viewer rage ;)

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

Ha ha! Well, it was an attempt, but there’s been some viewer rage despite my best efforts. 😁 Mostly, though, I hear from great people who love fantasy and enjoy sharing enthusiasm for the genre. Also, this is a fantastic way to get recommendations. Cheers!

@PhoenixCrown

2 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I'm new to the channel and really liked your style and take on things. If you really like epic fantasy, check out the Lightbringer Series by Brent Weeks if you dare. I'm also an amateur writer... "finished" my first novel in 1 year and have been editing it for 3... ;)

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

@@PhoenixCrown Very cool! I wish you much fulfillment with your writing. I did read The Black Prism, and I think Weeks is similar to Brandon Sanderson in the things he does really well, like integrating a complex magical system into the plot as both characters and readers discover how it works. My best to you!

Philip, I enjoyed your taste and your reasoning behind your picks very much. I must admit, Lord of the Rings is the next on my reading list. I haven't read much Fantasy, although, one is aware, and reminded, constantly, just what one is missing out on by not having picked up Mr. Tolkien's work. Thank you so much, and I wish you health, joy, and happiness! :)

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you, Abhishek! I deeply appreciate your kind words, and in turn I wish you the best for your read of The Lord of the Rings as well as as much fulfillment in life. All the best!

I love the spotlight that you are bringing to Hobb. She is so brilliant. I don't know how she seemed to get lost in the conversation. Wonderful video Philip. I love your sincere passion for fantasy. Continued success! Looking forward to all of your content this year. Just remember that AP is my genie and you can't have him. 😁

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Ha ha ha! Thanks, Seth! How many wishes does the A.P. genie grant?

@sethulakovic3722

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I am afraid to ask. He was on a roll for a while where I would daydream a topic and then, miraculously, he would make it appear. I could listen to the two of you chat for hours. I am sincerely jealous of your students and the conversations that you must have. Have a great day.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

@@sethulakovic3722 Thanks again, Seth! My students make my job wonderful, and I love teaching that class especially.

was watching a couple of your other videos and thought, man this guy seems like a teacher or instructor of some sort, lo and behold i was right. Thanks for the video! would love to take that fantasy novel class you mentioned!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

Жыл бұрын

Ha ha! I guess I can’t escape my professor mode. Thanks so much for watching, Devin!

Another winner, Philip. I loved your impassioned 'Defence of Fantasy' at the end, in relation to Malazan. As I said elsewhere, I am now deep in DoD. I'm enjoying it immensely (although I already know something dire will happen..) and find Erikson's ability to expand and deepen his world even at this late stage bordering on genius. I read Tolkien age 12. Llke with you it 'baptised my imagination': I wanted to be a writer. Now, age 59, I read Malazan, and see a contemporary of mine exploiting all the possibilities inherent in the genre. It's almost a blessing.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

That's an excellent way to put it, Johan! Erikson and Esslemont are indeed "exploiting all the possibilities inherent in the genre" -- perhaps even inventing some possibilities too. And it is blessing. I hope you're continuing to feel better!

@JohanHerrenberg

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Yes, my recovery is going very well. I'm lucky I've been healthy all my life, don't drink, don't smoke. That double pneumonia is the worst thing I've ever experienced. Well, I survived it. And now I'm back, reading and writing!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

@@JohanHerrenberg I’m so glad to hear it!

Thank you so much for this - as there are only so many times that one can listen to the stormlight series…. So far. You’ve introduced me to new authors - MUCH appreciated.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

My pleasure, Phyllis, and happy reading to you!

I've been reading American God's recently and I LOVE it! You've clearly got great taste! Brilliant book recommendations 👍 That book gives me so much life and joy! Neil Gaiman is an absolute legend. He's one of my all time favourite authors and an idol for me as a young teenage fantasy writer who aspires to be a published author someday. I love the way when I read Neil Gaiman's writing I just get completely and utterly immersed and the world around me dissapears. His charecters and world are so alive , real and tangible. I want to be able to write like that someday. I want to write things so immersing and vivid that you can taste the air in the story on your tongue and feel it swooping through your lungs.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

Beautiful! Gaiman is a fantastic author to look at as a model for doing so many things beautifully in his writing. I wish you much fulfillment in your writing and success in pursuing your dreams, Anya!

@andreww4751

Жыл бұрын

American Gods is quite probably the worst book i ever read so far

You have certainly stepped into the realms of my top booktubers. I sincerely thank you for the assisted digestion in the Malazan world. It difficult, but delicious. Thank you for all that you do for the world at large in helping nurture the legitimate importance of fantasy in all cultures. Tusen tak, mitt bror!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

It’s my pleasure, and thank you for the kind words! One of the best things about this platform is finding people who share our passion for excellent fantasy. I’m very happy that Malazan has been so meaningful for you!

@Mawlivander

2 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy It is the most emotionally realistic series that i have ever read. It has taken me to places of massive self reflection. I only have time for audio books, as I'm always on the move, which is difficult like you wouldn't believe. I sincerely appreciate your work. When might i be able to read your writing? Any time soon? I trust you in your appreciation of things.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

@@Mawlivander Of all the fantasy I’ve read, I feel that Malazan gives the truest sense of our place in the universe. As for my trilogy, my agent will be pitching it this week to publishers. Let’s see how it goes, and thank you for your interest and support!

@Mawlivander

2 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I wait in great anticipation. And i strongly agree that Malazan helps us understand our place in the universe. The points of reflection are unquestionably abundant and have helped me to understand the world about me and the world within me. Its helped a neurotic recluse like myself to reach out and be part of it. This dialogue is a gift and example of what would've been nigh impossible only a few months ago. Thank you.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

@@Mawlivander My pleasure, and my very best wishes to you!

This was absolutely amazing Philip, thank you so much. I would love to see A.P. Canavan´s top ten too, and if you two do a conversation about it, that would be the video of the year.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Ha ha! That would be fun!

Another great video. You got me with that “plot twist” at the end 😜

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Ha ha! My little plot twist probably amused me more than anyone, but I couldn't resist. Thanks for watching!

I too used to believe nothing could ever surpased the greatness and beauty of Lord of the rings. I think malazan has reached the level of literary beauty and epicness of Tolkien. I would not put one above the other, for me they are equaly monumental and will always have a special place in my heart.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Well said! In the end, it's perhaps pointless to rate one over the other. I have a feeling I'll be talking about both series for the rest of my life.

@TyreII

2 жыл бұрын

That first Malazan book though...yikes.

@sainsburyshopper

2 жыл бұрын

@@TyreII Really? I liked that one. Bonehunters was a slog, though.

@jamiereid7428

2 жыл бұрын

@@TyreII it’s definitely the worst of the series, but that’s saying something as I still rest like it.

Ah man, Malazan, even on my first read through, has really set an enormously high bar for literature in general and perfectly encapsulates why fantasy matters and what that medium can do as far as changing how we view things in society today. I'm eager to see your spoilers on Toll the Hounds which I recently finished and I think even managed to dethrone Midnight Tides and The Way of Kings as my top fantasy book of all time. You're enthusiasm as well as the depth you and AP can gleam from it has really helped me to appreciate the series and has really helped me to value it a lot more than I might have been able to on my first read. Thank you.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

I’m so glad you’re getting so much from your reading of Malazan, and if AP and I are adding anything to it, then it makes me even happier to know that we are accomplishing one of our most important goals. My best wishes to you as you finish the series and for all your reading!

@heathmotley9675

2 жыл бұрын

I'm about 300 pages into Toll of the Hounds and its blowing my mind.

@monksean

2 жыл бұрын

@@heathmotley9675 it's so good. The final book is also pretty amazing but toll the hounds is the cream of the crop as far as themes. I can understand why it doesn't click for some but it's certainly my favorite if I had to pick one, midnight tides is also pretty high up there too.

@heathmotley9675

2 жыл бұрын

@@monksean His prose are off the chart in this one. He progressively gets better each book..

@monksean

2 жыл бұрын

@@heathmotley9675 agreed, and honestly, it sets such a high standard for other fantasy that it's hard to want to leave Erickson once you get used to his writing style. I can definitely see why fans reread this series, there is a ton of depth and social commentary interwoven into each book. It's a feast for the brain alongside a pretty smashing story. I'm excited for you to finish the series.

Great video as always and it's great to see your enthusiasm for the genre shine through. Pretty much agree with your top 10 and I've now added The Broken Earth trilogy to my TBR list. I was a massive WoT fan back in the 90s and maybe got to book 6 or 7 but then got lost in the delays and the sad passing of Jordan and have never gone back to finish it - I really need to make that a priority. Cuttently working my through the Malazan Book of the Fallen with the help of Mike's Book Review and loving it so far. For my own personal 10 Ten I would have to include Memory, Sorrow and Thorn, my absolute favourite series of books I've so far read. As a returning lapsed reader it's heartening to see all these great channels dedicated to the fantasy genre.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks! Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn is fantastic, and I plan to reread it fairly soon. I'm glad all we BookTubers are helpful to you, and wish you much joy in your reading!

Glad to see First Law made your list. Glokta is probably my favorite fictional character of all time.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

First Law is absolutely brilliant - and I’m of the opinion that Abercrombie keeps getting better and better. You can’t find more vivid and distinct characters anywhere. Cheers, Taylor!

@jamiereid7428

2 жыл бұрын

Glokta is absolutely beautifully crafted and fully realized.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

@@jamiereid7428 Agreed!

Great video as always! No surprises although I was not expecting LOTR to get dethroned. But I agree, Malazan is worthy. I have read all of your top 10 except for Broken Empire and Broken Earth. Some great choices! Fantasy is in a good place, with a lot of good talented writers giving us exciting new stories all the time.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Sounds like you need to read more broken books! But don't go buying too many, lest you go broke. Ugh, I had to groan at that second one myself. Thanks for watching, Robert!

YESSSS! The Fantasy professor has SPOKEN! A fantastic break down of why these have made your top ten. Themes that make you think is essential in my reading life which is why I'm really getting to fantasy! A great idea to share your update on your list. Our reading life, much like our actual lives is constantly evolving and changing, and this list shows this. Woohoo Jemisin is 4, Hobb is 3! This has got me excited about continuing with those authors, and venturing into Le Guin, Lynch, Susanna Clarke....and WOAH Malazan is 1 - HUUUUGE declaration, congrats LOL! OOOH I feel it in my bones...My journey into Malazan may begin soon. Thank you for sharing.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you, Sun! I feel that readers of fantasy today are incredibly fortunate in having a plethora of great books available, and I’m hopeful that more are on the horizon!

I love your descriptions of the stories without spoilers. Some of these are on my tbr. Wish I could just get paid to read because my job gets in the way lol. Great video!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks very much, Michelle! I hope you’ll enjoy these great books as you find time for them, and happy reading!

I’m glad you mentioned Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn. I love that series and IMO it doesn’t get enough respect.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

It’s fantastic, and I hope to reread it soon!

@LocoDirewolf

3 жыл бұрын

Kevin S, I agree. I'm also glad that it was mentioned. Williams is spectacular at writing characters.

@vincentcollette2897

2 жыл бұрын

Yaeah. Williams wrote the best coming of age epic fantasy series.

For crimes against Tolkien please turn in your membership card for the Society of Medievalists at the door, thank you. :P

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Ha ha ha! Even if I must turn in my card, you’ve given me a huge smile with your comment! 😁

Wonderful list, my friend! I think you did a great job in articulating why you love each series here. Well done!! 😃 I dream of the day when I finished ALL of Malazan's books; still a challenge i need to complete one day!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

If anyone is capable of completing that challenge, it’s definitely you, Petrik! I can’t wait to hear your thoughts on all of the Malazan books. Happy reading, my friend!

I really like that you decided not to include incomplete series! I almost picked up American Gods the other day, now I wish I would have because it really does sound amazing

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

American Gods is definitely something different, and I don’t think it gets enough attention on BookTube. I encourage you to give it a shot at some point, but I’d advise against the awful television series based on it!

@TheBookishMom

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy good to know about the show! I was curious because I hadn't heard anything about ot

@elainechubb971

2 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I haven't seen the "American Gods" series, and now I'm glad I didn't! I found the "Good Omens" series very disappointing (even though Gaiman was involved with it). A lot of the humor was jettisoned, and the almost manic quality. I guess some things just don't translate from one medium to another.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

@@elainechubb971 I thought the first season of American Gods was okay - I really wanted to like it. But the second season became unwatchable for me.

So glad that you have Robin Hobb included in your list. She's so good at making me feel every feeling for her characters. Her skills cost me 16 books because I just couldn't leave the wonderful world she had created.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Hobb is wonderful, and the psychological depth she achieves with her characters is astounding. Just as you say, she makes you feel along with those characters. And their relationships are beautiful too. 16 books, but an excellent investment!

@Naamy19X9

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Are you aware of any another author that achieves the same feat? I feel like she 'ruined' fantasy for me...it turns out that I am all about characters and I am constantly looking for characters I can understand, relate to and champion.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

@@Naamy19X9 No one I know of does characters quite like Hobb in that sustained way. Others I consider brilliant character writers in their own way are Joe Abercrombie and Steven Erikson. I would consider anyone in my top ten very good at characters, but Hobb stands tall even in that company.

@Naamy19X9

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Thanks. I will give their way a chance.

@lemonspica

2 жыл бұрын

All her books are remarkable, haunting emotional depth combined with awe-inspiring fantasy.

I also love character and themes when I read! I don't know why, but one of my favourite aspects of reading fiction is thinking about the philosophies/values within them. Knowing that you love theme, I will be adding a few of these series to my list as many I have not tried yet!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks, and I hope you’ll enjoy them!

I haven't even gotten far in the video, but I just wanted to say I appreciated that you listed all of the series mentioned in the description!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

My pleasure!

This was such a lovely video, Philip! I love how enthusiastic are about books, and how you explain your choice for each book. I am glad to know the Malazan books conquered the top and are nr. 1. I hope, for everyone's sake, that we will someday find books that will be better than the Malazan, as this will mean there's another great author out there, one better than we would have dreamed. I was happy to hear Discworld in the Honorable Mention list, Pratchett has a very special place in my heart. Every time I read one of his books I felt hope and joy and that the world can be a better place, and maybe, for a short while, it was thanks to the book. Thank you for the video and see you in the next one :)

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you, Rox! I will definitely be reading more Discworld books someday. They're fun and engaging, and the world could use more laughs. We will keep hoping for those great fantasies yet to come!

I never see David Gemmell on any of these lists, and whereas his writing might be more in the ‘popular’ vein, I think he is grossly underrated and under appreciated. As a standalone, I’d rate his Winter Warriors as one of the best fantasy stories I’ve ever come across and it also gets points IMO for not following the typical fantasy formula

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

Жыл бұрын

I’m hoping to read Legend before the year’s end. Cheers, Glenn!

Thanks so much for this, and the top 2 exactly mirrors my own thoughts. The Hobbit and LOTR were also my entry into fantasy literature and for years I have set it aside as my bible, that nothing will ever surpass this. But Malazan did it for me. Like Johanna's comment, it is sublime, and it took my imagination to places that I didnt know was possible. So now Malazan is also number 1 for me. I would like to recommend you a short urban fantasy series called the Bartimaeus trilogy by Jonathan Stroud, and another 10 book but relatively short series called Shadows of the Apt by Adrian Tchaikovsky. Shadows of the Apt is a really unique series where the basic concept will blow you away. The first book is slightly average like many other series, but from book 2 it keeps reaching new heights. Please give it a try.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you, Sourav, and thanks for the recommendations! I read Bartimaeus with my daughter and enjoyed it very much. I haven’t read Tchaikovsky’s books yet but have heard them mentioned on BookTube and will probably check them out someday. Cheers!

Its very brave to come clean about your "evolution" for the world to see :). I havent read Malazan but I probably will someday. I love LOTR for all the reasons you so eloquently stated. Tolkiens middle earth feels like home to me. Pleased you added WoT to your list. I read that back in the days where you had to wait for Jordan to finish the next book and , oh! the nostalgia!!!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

6 ай бұрын

If you ever do try Malazan, I hope you’ll get a lot from it. Cheers!

Love your channel!!!! Wheel of time is an all time favorite. I’m actually finishing up broken empire trilogy this month. I’ve been enjoying reading Malazan I’m starting memories of ice next month

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Awesome! I hope you'll love Memories of Ice. I can't even begin to describe how I felt at the end of it. Thanks so much for watching!

@jamiereid7428

2 жыл бұрын

I think memories of ice might be the best of the series, but it’s got steep competition!

Can't wait to add a few of these to my reading list. Thank you for your recommendation. I love Tolkien. I'd be interested to hear what you think of Raymond E.Feist's Riftwar Saga. I love using excerpts from it in my creative writing classes. It's finally in the works to be adapted for TV!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Catrin! I read Magician many years ago and enjoyed it very much. I intend to reread it someday and continue in the series. I’m especially curious to read The Empire Trilogy that Feist co-wrote with Janny Wurts, who recently visited my channel to discuss her book To Ride Hell’s Chasm. All the best!

You hit the nail on the head with "psychological depth" when it comes to Robin Hobbs characters. I haven't read better. Her characters could be living breathing people. Amazing.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

Well said! Hobb’s characters do indeed feel like three-dimensional people you could know in the waking world.

@talithaleah6563

2 жыл бұрын

And her ability to weave a complicated tale but hold all the threads together is, in my experience, unparalleled.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

@@talithaleah6563 It’s indeed astounding!

@talithaleah6563

2 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy and she is sweet as can be:-)

Holy crap, Philip. The KZread algorithm has blessed this video!! Congratulations, my friend!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

Yes, indeed! It must be all those sacrifices I made to the algorithm gods -- ha ha! It's always fantastic to hear from you, my friend!

I keep coming back here every time that I need a new recommendation of what to read. Thank you, Philip!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

8 ай бұрын

My pleasure! Also, my best to you for your reading!

I absolutely love that American Gods is on your list. i don't see it brought up much in "hardcore" fantasy circles and I absolutely adore that book

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

I think American Gods (the book, not the awful television series) deserves much more attention, especially on BookTube. My review of it is, unfortunately, my least watched video. Thanks for watching!

@andreww4751

Жыл бұрын

i absolutely hate that book

Book of the New Sun is my favorite SciFi book of all time. It unseated Dune for me. I'm excited to see you go through it all.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you! I’m looking forward to expanding my horizons, and I’m especially curious to give Wolfe’s writing a try.

@BLABLABLABLABLABL298

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Oh yeah, Book of the new Sun is the closest I have found to Malazan. Since you're a big fan of that as well I presume you will like it.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

@@BLABLABLABLABLABL298 I’m hoping so!

@zadig08

3 жыл бұрын

I'm glad to hear that. Dune is one of my all time favorites. Currently, I'm wrapping up a Dresden Book and I'm trying to decide whether to start Book of the New Sun or read Ursula K. Le Guin's The Dispossessed next. If BotNS is better than Dune, then I may have no choice...

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

@@zadig08 It’s supposed to be amazing and on the complex side - I look forward to finding out!

A teacher in fantasy writing recommending The Wheel of Time first. Immediate respect and love for this channel.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Wheel of Time is a monumental achievement that deserves respect and praise. I have my little criticisms, but no series is perfect. The character arcs for the main characters are epic and amazing, and I enjoy the expressive prose, among other things. In my book, a very important read!

Broken Earth trilogy was hands down one of the best series that I have ever read. I still think about it now. It was simply incredible. I am currently (slowly) reading The Assassin's Apprentice now and it is beautifully tragic. I'm not sure what I'll think by the end, but I love Hobb's writing and I really feel for the characters. Your edition of LotR is stunning. My floppy paperback ones are not in great shape, and they are still in the US. 😄 I am chomping at the bit to get to the Malazan books. I have every single one of them on my wishlist. I own the first two now, but I may have made a mistake buying the mmpb copies. I am going to need new reading glasses to see the words! 😄 Thank you again for a wonderful video and Happy Reading!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Stacy! I hope you’ll continue to enjoy the Realm of the Elderlings. Beautifully tragic is an apt description of Farseer. I look forward to your eventual thoughts on Malazan!

Your Lord of the Rings edition is GORGEOUS

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks! It has some beautiful illustrations inside too, and I have a lot of great memories with it.

Always glad to see Earthsea 😁 and yes, I would love to hear your thoughts on Discworld!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

I will always adore Earthsea. I'm due for a reread at some point. And I have a lot of reading to do in Discworld, that's for sure!

@Yungshamgod

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Discworld is awesome.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

@@Yungshamgod I hope to discover just that - I enjoyed the two Discworld books I’ve read so far!

Many thanks for the recommendations, Now I have expanded my TBR list. Best of wishes and keep the good content coming.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching, Miguel, and I wish you fulfillment in your reading!

Great! I've fallen off on reading in recent years and I've wanted to start reading again. Subbed and I figure some of these is a good place to start. I lean toward fantasy naturally, so, glad I found the channel! I've also (finally) got to check out Sanderson. He keeps popping up, and probably for good reason. Cheers!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Michael. I appreciate the sub and the kind comment, and my very best wishes to you for much fulfillment in your reading!

One thing I didn't expect from Malazan was to get invested into the characters as much as I have, given the sheer volume of them

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

It happened for me to some degree the first time I read Malazan, but the second time I was completely immersed and invested in the characters. Erikson can do a lot of character building in a short space. Cheers, Patrick!

I still haven't finished Malazan, I'm about 200 pages into the Crippled God, and I can't WAIT to see how this thing ends!! I never thought anything could knock Wheel of Time out of my number one spot, but Malazan has done just that. The characters, history, world building, magic, dialogue, characterizations, environments, names, mystery, battles, plot twists and reveals, are all S tier, which is honestly jaw dropping to think about. I already have all the other books and can't wait to read them as well! PS: anyone that can offer suggestions on where to start with the other Malazan material? That would be greatly appreciated

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

That’s awesome! My best to you for the ending - it’s sublime, in my opinion. As for what’s next, you could try Esslemont’s Novels of the Malazan Empire, six books that flesh out many of the threads from The Malazan Book of the Fallen. Esslemont brings his own style to the Malazan world. That would be my advice, but there’s also Esslemont’s prequel series about the founding of the Malazan Empire, Paths to Ascendancy. And, of course, there’s Erikson’s prequel about the Tiste, The Kharkanas Trilogy, as well as the sequel Witness Trilogy, with The God Is Not Willing, book one, out. And there’s Erikson’s quirky, bizarre, and absurdist Bauchelain and Korbal Broach novellas. Lots of choices, but I’d give Novels of the Malazan Empire a try. All the best!

@korionterivers9995

2 жыл бұрын

Two words for you Karsa Orlong!!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

@@korionterivers9995 Witness!

First video and loved the content! Have read much of your list and currently starting broken world trilogy. LOTR is my favorite, but have not read Malazan yet. Changes from Dresden files is a top three all time book for me. Love the series and can’t wait to see what Butcher will do with it.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you! I’m looking forward to progressing in the Dresden Files so I can finally experience what so many fans of the series rave about. Best wishes with all your reads!

Fantastic list, and a new subscriber loved your passion and energy that comes across. I also have read five of your top 10 which I found really surprising, I have planned to read malazan straight after Christmas. Fantastic reviews. Happy reading.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much, Warren! I appreciate the kind words and the sub. Fantasy is something I’m definitely passionate about, and you’ll find plenty of Malazan content on my channel, including many discussions with my friend A.P. Canavan (advance reader for Erikson and Esslemont), several chats with Steven Erikson, and a couple chats with Ian Esslemont. You’ll find it all in the “Erikson” and “Esslemont” playlists on my channel, and I also recommend A.P.’s channel, A Critical Dragon. My best wishes for your reading!

@warrengent8180

2 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy thank you very much, I have never been intimated by a book as I have by gardens of the moon, and the series that follows, I have had it on my bookcase for a few years now and am definitely starting it early in the new year.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

@@warrengent8180 Feel free to reach out if you have questions about. Also, I have spoiler free videos on each Malazan book that I made with A.P. to help folks along before tackling each book. Best wishes!

It's always sad not to hear Guy Gavriel Kay not mentioned on those lists on booktube, even though he is popular among fantasy authors and inspired many of them. His themes and writing style are just exquisite.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Having read Tigana long ago, I'm actually inclined to agree with you about his style. I need to reread Tigana and move on to more of Kay's work. Thanks!

@wyluli-dt9wv

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Its criminal that you didn't mention GGK. You haven't done your homework if all you've read from Kay is Tigana.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

@@wyluli-dt9wv I hope I won’t be arrested! 😁 I did love Tigana and will read more of Kay’s books someday.

@wyluli-dt9wv

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Hes the only fantasy author who can write characters on par with Hobb. I hope you won't be arrested as well. You better pick up The Sarantine Mosaic or The Last Light of the Sun... just to be safe. ;)

@Decrepit_Productions

3 жыл бұрын

I'll chime in with the choir on GGK. Amazing writer! I second another commenter's endorsement of Sarantine Mosaic and also recommend Lions of Al-Rassan.

Joe Abercrombie’s First Law is my favorite series of all time 👏

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

I love First Law, and Lord Grimdark is a genius who, in my opinion, keeps getting better.

@dawlyndiaz148

2 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy the plot twist blew me away, and I loved the characters, sorry for TLOR, but this is my favorite.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

@@dawlyndiaz148 It’s a legitimate favorite of all time in my opinion!

@onyekachiarukwe3035

2 жыл бұрын

Abercrombie is genius

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

@@onyekachiarukwe3035 True!

I hoped to see Earthsea here. "This book is a meditation. It is almost like a folk tale in its starkness". You captured what makes it special for me. I often find myself longing for the qualities of Le Guin's writing when I read other fantasy (modern and classical).

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

Earthsea is not only a story for me - it’s a beautiful and immersive experience that I’ve found helpful in my life. Cheers, Toby!

Just started first law and I’m very much enjoying it so far. Nice to see your thoughts on the books! Great video

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks! I hope you’ll continue to enjoy First Law!

I've always been a "not-reading" person and thought that books were boring. Around a week ago, a teacher convinced me to borrow a book from school, and I chose a random book that was close to me, and that was *Throne of Glass* . It's my favourite book now, and I've also ordered all the other books in the series, because I like it so much. Now, at least I know what kind of genre I like, *fantasy-fiction* .So I'm here, to find other fantasy series to read after throne of glass. Thanks for the video!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

That’s a cool story, and I hope it will be the beginning of a long journey for you. There are so many great fantasy stories out there, and no doubt you’ll gradually get a sense of what kinds you enjoy the most. The ones I talk about in this video have given me loads of pleasure. One I mentioned in the honorable mentions that I recommend for people relatively new to fantasy is John Gwynne’s The Faithful and the Fallen, which begins with Malice. Happy reading to you!

@lemonspica

2 жыл бұрын

I cannot read anything other than fantasy. I find most other books mundane and fairly boring. Nothing opens up the mind and imagination like fantasy, especially epic or adventure fantasies.

@michellejarvis7878

2 жыл бұрын

A Throne of Glass- i could not put it down. You were very fortunate in that random pick. Enjoy.

Oh my god, now I look forward to reading Malazan next year even more. That’s a great list.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you, Klaus! And I will look forward to your reaction to Malazan.

Great list, most top fantasy series lists tend to mostly have series I have read, but this one has quite a few on my TBR, and I am really looking forward to reading them.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Jake! I hope you'll enjoy them all!

Solid list. I follow your logic on the switcheroo in the top two and imagine I'll feel the same when I finish the series. I got off to a rocky start, but you and AP banged me into shape.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

We are happy to be of service! I look forward to your continuing thoughts on Malazan and other series, Richard!

@raswartz

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I love it. I've read DG twice and GOTM three times. I feel like I'm ready for MOI.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

@@raswartz I bet you're more than ready! I hope to hear your thoughts.

Elric of Melniboné and Stormbringer are my favourites. Doomed hero of a decadent Island race with a cursed sword, the context of the eternal champion, his loyal henchman Moonglum - even its own songs and guitar riff. As a Brit have to appreciate it.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

Excellent recommendations - cheers!

@GeekofMordor

11 ай бұрын

Elric is an awesome character but I can't stand the writing style of Moorcock.

My number one is probably always going to remain Roger Zelazny's Chronicles of Amber series. I feel like as I get older, I keep uncovering new things and hidden meanings my younger self had missed.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

That’s a beautiful thing when you can engage with a series that way, and Chronicles of Amber is an excellent recommendation. Thanks!

@robertgriswold8544

2 жыл бұрын

I read this years and years ago. I bought a fresh copy for my bookshelf recently. I tell myself I will get to it, but I'd love to reread. Walking patterns, murderous siblings and a multiverse centered around the city of Amber.

Wow, What a top 10 list! Subscribe haha I've read at least some of every series mentioned and my neck is getting sore from nodding so much during this video 😂 I'll have to continue with the Malazan series I only read the first 2. Both of them absolutely blew me away especially the ending of the 2nd one but I also found them a lot of work to get through. It was absolutely worth the effort when I have a bit more space in my life though. I was really happy to see some authors on here who I think don't get enough credit. Jemesin, Le Guinn. Everything Mark Laurence writes is fantastic. He actually got me back into fantasy again after many years of not reading it with The Book of the Ancestor books. I'm working my way through WOT and the dresden files atm. I grew up with LOTR and its always nostalgic for me but I think I sometimes forget how good it was, just from not reading it for so long. Abercrombies' characters ARE amazing! I will have to check out The Live Ship Traders, I have only read the Farseer Trilogy. I rage quit book 7 of the Dark Tower series as a teenager and never finished it, but I think I would like to read it from scratch and not just read the final book. I mean what a series thinking back, like rules? What rules? You've even got some Neil Gaiman in here! Speaking of Earthsea being like a meditation, I just read Susanna Clark's new book Piranesi and it is an absolute magical mediation. It wouldn't even be worth describing it, it is just a really pleasant experience, you'll knock it over in probably a sitting or 2. I've got a lot of reading ahead of me so I better get to it!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

It’s awesome to hear from you, Isaac! I’m glad you’ve enjoyed most of these reads too - it sounds like we have similar taste. I have read and reviewed Piranesi, and just as you say, it’s a deeply moving meditation. Sorry about the sore neck 😁, and I wish you the very best for Malazan. If you’re inclined to watch videos as you read through the books, I’ve got loads of Malazan videos - discussions with A.P. Canavan (A Critical Dragon) on each book as well as chats with Erikson and Esslemont. A.P. has loads of Malazan content too. You’ll find mine in the Erikson and Esslemont playlists on my channel. Most (not all) of the chats on my channel are spoiler free. My best wishes to you!

Great post !! Rare that I write a comment, but you deserve it. You explained everything about each book very well, I read most of these and you're spot on. For me, and if I can suggest a fantasy book for you on accepting death, it's David Gemmell Legend, unforgettable book. After reading this one, I read every book he wrote. It's incredible how no one talks about him. Anyways keep up doing what you do, it's very easy to listen to your calm voice, and you make us want to read more which is perfect :-)

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for leaving your comment - I’m honored, and I appreciate your kind words more than I can express. Also, thanks for the recommendation. I’ve realized in the last year that Gemmell is a gap I must fill in my fantasy reading, and I will most definitely be filling that gap at some point this year. Cheers!

Man, I love Steven Erikson, I'm reading House Of Chains and I can't believe that in just four chapters Erikson has created such a good story, I mean there's a wide variety of characters, there's a lot of development, there's culture, there's action, there's sadness , there are laughs, believe me that if the book had ended in the fourth chapter I would have felt totally satisfied haha ​​and would have said that it is one of his best books. But no, I know that the book is still missing dozens of pages and I know that I will enjoy each one

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

Well said! Erikson somehow manages to capture life in his books in a way that resonates deeply with me. Best wishes for the series!

- takes pen and paper - I'm glad you have Prince of Thorns on your list! After I finish the Poppy War and the First Law trilogies I plan to jump into that series. I love Robin Hobb, I've seen your online discussion for the Liveship Traders trilogy with Chris, Andy and Riddhima and really loved your insight. I think the LST is better in plot but the connection you have with Fitz in the Farseer triogy is another level in my opinion.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

That’s true about Fitz! The first person narrative in Farseer is the major reason for the difference, I think. It helps you to connect with Fitz on the deepest level, but it leaves some other characters less fleshed out, like Regal. Brilliant stuff either way!

Kudos on broken empire. Underrated as heck. People love to talk about "dark" heroes, but nobody is even close to Jorge.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

That’s for sure, Joel. Lawrence is a brilliant writer, and I agree that Broken Empire doesn’t get enough attention.

I'm so excited to see how you feel about Realm of the Elderlings after the next trilogy, and again by the end. Far and away my favourite fantasy series.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

I’m excited to progress in The Realm of the Elderlings this year! I already trust Hobb’s genius, and now I want to experience those books.

I love Robin Hobb, she is my all time favorite writer. I can see why people love Farseer so much, but Liveships are my favorite by far. I loved following Althea, she's got moxy and grit and doesn't just let things happen to her. And Malta, it's very apparent Robin Hobby still remembers being a teenage girl.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

I really grew to love both Althea and Malta, but I admit it took me some time to warm up to the latter. But that’s what Hobb can do - make you love a character you might not identify with at first.

Loved your list. I miss people having passion for books and reading. I'm reading The Wheel of Time series right now. I loved Terry Goodkind's Sword of Truth series.

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you, Raine! Passion for books is at the heart of why so many of us are here. My very best to you as you read Wheel of Time!

@happybunny8704

Жыл бұрын

I loved the Sword of truth series..it was what got me into this genre of reading

Impressive list. And I love Ganesh and the other items on your mantlepiece!

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you! Ganesh is always prepared with his umbrella. I appreciate you watching and commenting!

Great video and some amazing series I've never heard of! Thanks for sharing Philip 😇

@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

2 жыл бұрын

My pleasure, and thank you for watching and commenting!