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Out of this world Fantasy Novels

By: Hidden Gems on February 20, 2024

Hidden Gems Books ARC service.

By: Hidden Gems on February 20, 2024

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If you are looking for an out-of-this-world escape from the cold of winter, this list is for you. We’ve got one for everybody on this round-up of recently top-rated fantasy novels that our Hidden Gems ARC readers raved about.


Sword and Sorcery: Frostfire

Sword and Sorcery: Frostfire by Ethan Avery

In the streets of Bogudos, scarred swordsman Erevan faces a dilemma when his friend lands in jail. A mysterious courier offers a chance to fix things, prompting Erevan to embark on a perilous journey.

At the prestigious magical school of Darr-Kamo, Aireyal lacks magical abilities but uncovers world-altering secrets. The narrative intertwines the stories of Erevan, Aireyal, a Spiritualist, and a Scholar, all seeking help to achieve their desires amid adversaries and hidden truths.

As their paths converge, the characters must grapple with the sacrifices they are willing to make in a world where assistance comes at a cost, revealing the intricate connections between their destinies and the potential to change their lives forever.

“This is a great story with very unique characters. I love how it was like different stories and only mixed when needed. I loved learning about this unique little world. Characters were very relatable sometimes,” wrote Anonymous in their 5-star review. “Definitely kept me reading once I got into the book. Ending was absolutely amazing. Still very highly recommend for YA fantasy lovers. And I can’t wait to see where this continues.”

“We absolutely loved the narrative and how the author gave voice to his characters,” wrote Anonymous in their 5-star review. “We highly recommend this as a YA book and as a novel for adults who love the fantasy genre. It is definitely a must-read and page turner!”

The Anatalian Soldier

The Anatalian Soldier by Rebecca Mikkelson

Liam Fulton dreams of escaping his vineyard-bound life, joining the Anatalian army as his ticket to see the world. Amidst war, he uncovers a treasonous plot, facing the dilemma of emerging unscathed or undergoing life-altering changes.

Margaret navigates court life, but tragedy strikes when her father falls ill. Shunned by courtiers who believe their family is cursed, Margaret’s mother abandons them. Alone, Margaret must learn to care for her ailing father, facing the challenges of isolation and familial abandonment.

“What an amazing story!” wrote Anonymous in their 5-star review. “The characters were believable and I loved Liam’s journey. Can’t wait until the next one comes out. I will be buying it!”

“What a great book!” wrote Samantha in their 5-star review. “If you love historical fiction of any kind then this is a book for you. It is well written with awesome characters. You’ll be dying for the next release in this series. Highly recommend!”

The Brother’s Curse

The Brother’s Curse by Christine M. Germain

A year following her parents’ brutal demise, Crystal Francois returns to the eerie Lakeview Falls. Entrusted with watching a neighbor’s home, the charming Jason Warwick captures Crystal’s heart. Two weeks before turning 25, she inherits a deadly amethyst necklace from her late mother, unwittingly becoming the target of sadistic 18th-century Shape-shifter brothers.

These paranormal siblings, seeking a demonic heirloom, create chaos in Lakeview Falls, causing the disappearance of young men and gruesome deaths. Crystal soon realizes that the new guy in town, Jason, conceals a mysterious identity, raising doubts about his humanity.

“A tension-building story with fantastic horror elements and engaging dialogue. In my opinion, the story has a blend of everything a reader could want in a supernatural novel,” wrote Ashon in their 5-star review. “This book keeps you guessing and the twits are…let’s just say it is well worth the wait. I can’t wait to start reading book two. I highly recommend!”

“One of the book’s strengths lies in its ability to create an atmosphere of suspense and mystery. The author skillfully builds the unsettling ambiance of Lakeview Falls, setting the stage for the unfolding events,” wrote Sergei in their 5-star review. “The town’s air of unease, coupled with the disappearance of young men and the gruesome discoveries of their bodies, keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning the pages to unravel the dark secrets lurking beneath the surface.”

Wicked Throne

Wicked Throne by Alex Hill

Motivated by a thirst for revenge, Ivar de Ryeleth, a shapeshifting fae, infiltrates the imperial palace during a lonely exile under the threat of death. Posing as the man who banished him, he becomes entwined in a magical treasure trove and is mistaken for the true heir, thrust into the kingdom’s ongoing war.

Upon discovering the emperor’s assassination by the shadowy creature tailing him, the clever imposter, Ivar, realizes that fleeing would sow chaos. As he extends his masquerade, the risk grows—both of the true royal’s return and of Ivar inadvertently turning his sworn enemy into a hero. Now, he must save the land and escape before his treasonous cover is exposed.

“Alex Hill has a way of describing locations, characters, and action in a way that makes one feel like they’re an observer in this world,” wrote Kevin in their 5-star review. “It’s easy to imagine Wicked Throne as a movie or mini series. I look forward to reading more from this author.”

“I loved this book. Alex Hill manages to effortlessly weave humor, distinctive characters, and an original narrative into a story with a unique blend of intelligence, creating a refreshing and enjoyable reading experience,” wrote Karen in their 5-star review. “Every action and every line of dialogue is imbued with wit and clever observations. The story unfolds with unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.”

The Sea of Zemira by D.L. Blade

King Matthias has been destroying Nola’s homeland for years, trapping the only magic left in the enchanted crystal of his crown. Nola learns that hope lies across the sea, but she faces a minor dilemma, she is a siren who has never used her tail. She decides to stow away on the pirate ship of Captain Lincoln, a man who hates siren folk. Despite this hatred, Captain Lincoln allows her to come with him to the Queen of the Fae as long as she remains a prisoner in his quarters.

“I really enjoyed this. I haven’t read very many pirate books but a lot of fantasy and this was so good! There was so much plot with some spice,” wrote Jenna in their 5-star review. “I told everyone to read it because I liked it so much.”

“I was so captivated by everything this story has to offer. I love how she created this world so that you can get a total sense of actually being there with the different creatures and lands!” wrote Samantha in their 5-star review. “When it came to the characters and their lives, that is what truly dragged me in.”


Hidden Gems readers get to read these fantasy novels first, so if you want more stories that will stay with you, sign up today! Subscribers to Hidden Gems receive invitations to read books like these – plus other titles from any of up to 15 other genres – for free. Authors send these out in the hopes that the readers will write an honest review once they’re done.

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