For the last Top Five Fantasy prompt, the Wyrd and Wonder hosts asked us to pick our favorite fantasy subgenre. My (current) favorite fantasy genre is comic fantasy. For me, reading is a way to destress, and comic fantasy novels are a perfect, lighthearted form of escapism. I also just love anything that makes me laugh. Plus, I’ve been reading fantasy for most of my life so I’m familiar with most of the tropes and genre conventions. I love that comic fantasy authors introduce unusual settings and circumstances into their works. No matter how much fantasy I’ve read, these authors always seem to surprise me.
Most recently, I read Nimona, which is set in a medieval world that for some reason includes modern technology. I didn’t think dragons and science labs really went together, but somehow ND Stevenson makes it work perfectly. It’s these quirky little details that make comedic fantasy my favorite genre. Today, I’m happy to share 5 of my favorites.
This post is part of the annual fantasy event, Wyrd and Wonder, hosted by Imyril, Lisa, Jorie, Annemieke, and Ariana.
Note: the book covers are linked to Bookshop using affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links at no extra cost to you. See my full disclosure for more information.
My Favorite Comic Fantasy Novels
1. The Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom by Christopher Healy
Once upon a time, all the world’s best and worst heroes were reduced to the name “Prince Charming” by a few lazy bards. Christopher Healy’s comedic fantasy novel answers the question, who is Prince Charming. Or, more accurately, who are the Prince Charmings? Prince Liam, Prince Frederick, Prince Gustav, and Prince Duncan aren’t all as heroic as the stories say, and after being cast out by their princesses they uncover an evil plot that could destroy all of their kingdoms. Now it’s up to these unlikely heroes to live up to their name, Prince Charming.
The Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom is a fun and lighthearted read that I picked up after my sister read it. It’s definitely worth a read if you’re looking for a humorous retelling of your favorite childhood fairy tales.
2. Nimona by ND Stevenson
As I mentioned in the beginning, Nimona is set in a medieval world that includes modern technology and ideology. The story follows an eccentric shapeshifter who decides to become the sidekick for the notorious villain, Lord Ballister Blackheart. Unfortunately for Nimona, Blackheart prefers to work alone. As the two bicker about their conflicting ideologies, an even more sinister villain is unveiled.
The comedy in Nimona mostly relies on irony and satire. What makes it such a great example of comedic fantasy is how thoroughly irony is woven throughout the story. Everything from the modern elements mixed with a medieval setting to the villains becoming the heroes is the opposite of the expected.
3. Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir
Gideon the Ninth isn’t technically categorized as comedic fantasy, but since it’s told from the point of view of a lesbian himbo, it ends up being funnier than any murder mystery has a right to be.
As one of only two young people in the Ninth House, Gideon is fed up with ornery nuns and reanimated corpses. Just as she’s about to pack up her sword and make her escape, her childhood nemesis offers a proposition. Serve as her Cavelier in a deadly competition to become one of the Emperor’s immortal servants, and Harrow will let Gideon go free. As the two enemies try to get along, necromancers and cavaliers start turning up dead. It looks like the competition will be more deadly than either of them expected.
4. The Wee Free Men by Terry Pratchett
As one of the first comic fantasy novels I read, and my introduction to Terry Pratchett’s work, The Wee Free Men will always have a special place in my heart. The combination of an excessively sensible young witch and the impassioned Nac Mac Feegle make this a uniquely hilarious read.
When Tiffany Aching’s younger brother is captured by the queen of fairyland, she must team up with the Nac Mac Feegle to save him.
5. Shadowspell Academy: The Culling Trials by K.F. Breene and Shannon Mayer
Three years after her older brother mysteriously died at a prestigious magical school, Wild’s younger brother receives an invitation to the same school. If he doesn’t go, they kill her whole family. Determined to save her younger brother from the same fate, Wild goes to the academy in his place.
If you’re looking for a classic YA-type tale with funny and likable characters, I definitely recommend checking out Shadowspell Academy!
What’s your favorite comic fantasy novel? Let’s chat in the comments!
Isabel
Peyton
The Hero’s Guide is a favorite of my oldest’s.
It’s one of my childhood favorites
My daughter loved the Hero’s Guides. One of her favourite series.
I haven’t read more than the first book, but it’s definitely a series I’ve wanted to get back to