If you loved The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon and are looking for more epic standalone fantasy novels, you're in luck. While most epic fantasies come in sprawling series, there are a few incredible one-and-done books that deliver the same rich worldbuilding, compelling characters, and sweeping narratives. Here are some of the best epic standalone fantasy novels to read next.
The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi by Shannon Chakraborty
A swashbuckling fantasy adventure filled with legendary pirates, mythical creatures, and high-seas intrigue. Amina al-Sirafi, a retired pirate captain, is pulled back into one last job that leads to a journey of magic, danger, and self-discovery. This book delivers strong character work, thrilling action, and an unforgettable setting.
She Who Became the Sun (The Radiant Emperor #1) by Shelley Parker-Chan
Blending historical fantasy with destiny-driven storytelling, this book follows Zhu, a peasant girl who seizes a grand fate meant for her brother. With war, identity struggles, and political maneuvering, this epic is perfect for fans of complex characters and sweeping narratives.
Black Leopard, Red Wolf (The Dark Star Trilogy #1) by Marlon James
A dark, lush African-inspired fantasy following a mercenary named Tracker, who is hired to find a missing child. The novel weaves myth, political intrigue, and surreal storytelling in a way that makes it a unique and ambitious epic fantasy read.
Gideon the Ninth (The Locked Tomb #1) by Tamsyn Muir
A genre-blending fantasy featuring necromancers, sword fights, and deadly trials, this book follows Gideon, a foul-mouthed swordswoman caught up in a deadly competition. With gothic worldbuilding and razor-sharp wit, this novel is perfect for those who love fantasy with a unique, dark twist.
The Bone Shard Daughter (The Drowning Empire #1) by Andrea Stewart
A sweeping tale of rebellion, forbidden magic, and political intrigue, this book follows Lin, the emperor's daughter, as she tries to master bone shard magic and reclaim her legacy. It's an intricately woven story full of secrets and shifting alliances.
The Tensorate Series (The Black Tides of Heaven & The Red Threads of Fortune) by Neon Yang
This silkpunk fantasy series is beautifully written and explores themes of gender identity, political intrigue, and magical rebellion. Though technically a duology, each book can be read as a standalone, offering a rich, immersive experience in a vibrant and unique world.
The Jasmine Throne by Tasha Suri
While the first in a series, The Jasmine Throne offers a self-contained, deeply satisfying story with lush worldbuilding and themes of rebellion, forbidden magic, and political intrigue. Inspired by Indian mythology, it follows a princess imprisoned by her tyrant brother and a servant with dangerous secrets who becomes her unlikely ally.
Gods of Jade and Shadow by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
For a fantasy novel with a rich mythological backdrop, Gods of Jade and Shadow is an excellent choice. This standalone blends Mexican folklore with a sweeping adventure as Casiopea Tun embarks on a journey with the Mayan god of death. It's a beautifully written story filled with magic, destiny, and self-discovery.
The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune
If you enjoyed the heartwarming found family elements of The Priory of the Orange Tree, this novel delivers a gentler but equally magical experience. It follows Linus Baker, a government worker sent to inspect an orphanage for magical children, where he discovers love, acceptance, and a home he never expected.
Tigana by Guy Gavriel Kay
A lyrical and deeply emotional fantasy, Tigana explores themes of memory, identity, and resistance. Set in a land where a tyrant has erased an entire kingdom's name from history, a small group of rebels fights to reclaim their heritage. With intricate politics and immersive storytelling, this book is perfect for fans of epic standalone fantasy.
The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow
This book is a beautifully written portal fantasy that blends historical fiction with magical realism. January Scaller, a girl raised in a house of curiosities, discovers a book that reveals the existence of hidden doors leading to other worlds. A stunning standalone novel with a rich, imaginative setting and poetic prose.
Uprooted by Naomi Novik
If you loved the lush prose and intricate magic of The Priory of the Orange Tree, Uprooted is a perfect next read. Inspired by Eastern European folklore, it follows Agnieszka, a young woman chosen by the enigmatic wizard known as the Dragon to protect her village from the corrupting influence of an ancient, malevolent forest.
The Forgotten Beasts of Eld by Patricia A. McKillip
This classic standalone fantasy novel is a lyrical, character-driven tale about a sorceress named Sybel who lives among legendary creatures. When a human child is placed in her care, she is drawn into a world of love, revenge, and power struggles. McKillip's writing is elegant and enchanting, making this a must-read for lovers of literary fantasy.
The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison
For readers who love court intrigue and character-driven storytelling, The Goblin Emperor is a fantastic choice. It follows Maia, the half-goblin son of the emperor, who unexpectedly ascends the throne and must navigate a dangerous political landscape while remaining true to himself.
The Bone Orchard by Sara A. Mueller
A dark and intricate standalone fantasy, The Bone Orchard follows a woman with a fractured mind who serves as the emperor's mistress—and his spy. When the emperor is murdered, she is tasked with uncovering the truth while managing the ghosts of her past. With gothic aesthetics, political intrigue, and deep psychological themes, this is a unique read.
The Spear Cuts Through Water by Simon Jimenez
This beautifully written epic fantasy blends mythology and legend with lyrical prose and an unconventional narrative structure. Following two warriors on a desperate journey to free an imprisoned god, The Spear Cuts Through Water is a breathtaking standalone novel that defies expectations.
Conclusion
Finding epic standalone fantasy novels can be a challenge, but these books prove that you don't always need a multi-book series for a grand, unforgettable adventure. Whether you're looking for lush worldbuilding, intricate politics, or deep character-driven stories, these novels will satisfy your craving for epic fantasy in a single volume. Which one will you read next?
