Fantasy Authors to Watch in 2027: 15 Writers Every Fantasy Reader Should Know
Fantasy literature continues to evolve, introducing readers to extraordinary worlds, unforgettable characters, imaginative magic systems, and stories that challenge the boundaries of traditional storytelling. From epic fantasy adventures and dark magical worlds to romantic fantasy and mythology-inspired fiction, the genre offers something for every kind of reader.
As 2027 approaches, fantasy fans have plenty of reasons to be excited. Established bestselling authors are preparing new releases, beloved fantasy series are continuing, and emerging writers are bringing fresh perspectives to the genre.
Whether you enjoy sprawling fantasy worlds, complicated political conflicts, magical academies, or character-driven adventures, discovering the right author can lead to your next favorite book.
In this guide, we explore 15 fantasy authors to watch in 2027, highlighting their most notable works, distinctive storytelling styles, and reasons they deserve a place on your reading list. Some are established names with exciting projects ahead, while others represent the fresh voices shaping modern fantasy.
Let's explore the writers who deserve your attention.
1. Sarah J. Maas
Sarah J. Maas remains one of the most recognizable names in contemporary fantasy. Known for combining immersive fantasy settings, memorable characters, romantic storylines, and powerful conflicts, she has developed a worldwide readership through her bestselling series.
Her most popular works include A Court of Thorns and Roses, Throne of Glass, and Crescent City. Each series explores different fantasy worlds while maintaining the emotional storytelling and dramatic character relationships that have become central to her writing.
What makes Maas particularly interesting is her ability to build long-running stories that keep readers invested in their characters. Her books frequently explore loyalty, identity, personal growth, and the consequences of difficult decisions.
Why watch her in 2027?
Fantasy readers have a major reason to follow Sarah J. Maas in 2027. Bloomsbury has announced that the next A Court of Thorns and Roses novel, A Court of Forgotten Melody, is scheduled for January 12, 2027.
For readers following the series, this is one of the most anticipated fantasy releases of the year.
Recommended starting point: A Court of Thorns and Roses.
2. James Islington
James Islington has established himself as an exciting voice in modern epic fantasy. His writing combines ambitious worldbuilding, mysterious histories, complex political systems, and carefully constructed plot twists.
He is best known for The Licanius Trilogy, beginning with The Shadow of What Was Lost, and his increasingly popular Hierarchy series, which begins with The Will of the Many.
One of Islington's greatest strengths is his ability to create stories in which seemingly small details become important parts of a much larger mystery. His novels reward readers who enjoy questioning what they know about a fictional world.
His approach to storytelling makes him particularly appealing to fans of intricate epic fantasy.
Why watch him in 2027?
His upcoming novel, The Strength of the Few, is scheduled for publication on June 1, 2027, by Simon & Schuster. The book continues the Hierarchy series and follows the extraordinary developments introduced in its predecessor.
Readers who enjoy intelligent protagonists, political intrigue, and elaborate fantasy mysteries should keep this author on their radar.
Recommended starting point: The Will of the Many.
3. Will Wight
Will Wight is a major name among readers of progression fantasy and LitRPG-inspired adventures. His books are known for their fast-moving plots, imaginative power systems, memorable characters, and satisfying character development.
His best-known series, Cradle, follows Lindon, a young man who begins with significant limitations in a world where supernatural abilities determine social position and power.
Rather than relying exclusively on traditional fantasy storytelling, Wight places considerable emphasis on progression. Readers follow characters as they learn, improve, overcome obstacles, and discover increasingly complicated aspects of their world.
This makes his books particularly appealing to readers who enjoy adventure, training journeys, and clearly defined magical abilities.
Why watch him in 2027?
Wight has an exciting new project titled Overworld, a LitRPG fantasy adventure announced by Tor Publishing Group for Spring 2027.
The announcement introduces a new fantasy story from an author who has already built a loyal readership through the Cradle series.
Recommended starting point: Unsouled, the first book in Cradle.
4. Rebecca Yarros
Rebecca Yarros has become one of the most influential names in the modern romantasy movement. Her Empyrean series has attracted enormous attention by combining dragon riders, magical abilities, military training, romance, and high-stakes fantasy conflicts.
The series begins with Fourth Wing, introducing readers to Violet Sorrengail and the dangerous world of Basgiath War College.
Yarros is particularly effective at creating emotionally engaging relationships while maintaining a strong sense of adventure. Her stories appeal to readers who enjoy fantasy settings where personal relationships and larger conflicts develop together.
Why watch her in 2027?
One confirmed 2027 project is Fourth Wing: The Graphic Novel, Volume One, scheduled for April 6, 2027. The graphic novel adaptation offers readers another way to experience the world of the Empyrean series.
However, readers waiting for the fourth main Empyrean novel should distinguish it from the graphic novel project. A confirmed publication date for the fourth novel has not been announced.
Recommended starting point: Fourth Wing.
5. Tigest Girma
Tigest Girma is an exciting contemporary fantasy writer whose work combines supernatural elements, atmospheric storytelling, and explorations of identity, power, and complicated relationships.
Her Immortal Dark series introduces readers to a world involving vampires, ancient secrets, and characters navigating dangerous supernatural circumstances.
Girma's storytelling is particularly interesting because it combines familiar fantasy elements with questions about power, belonging, and the consequences of personal choices.
For readers interested in darker young adult fantasy, her work offers an appealing alternative to more traditional epic fantasy adventures.
Why watch her in 2027?
Her novel Infernal Vow, the concluding installment of the Immortal Dark trilogy, is scheduled for January 5, 2027.
The book is particularly worth following for readers who have already experienced the earlier installments and want to discover how the series concludes.
Recommended starting point: Immortal Dark.
6. Fonda Lee
Fonda Lee has earned considerable recognition for her ability to combine fantasy worldbuilding with crime fiction, political drama, and family relationships.
She is best known for the Green Bone Saga, which begins with Jade City. The series introduces a fictional society in which jade grants extraordinary abilities and influences political power, family loyalty, and economic competition.
One of Lee's greatest strengths is creating believable societies. Her fictional worlds have their own institutions, traditions, conflicts, and social structures.
Rather than focusing exclusively on magic and adventure, she explores how power affects individuals, families, and entire communities.
Why watch her in 2027?
Lee deserves attention because of her influence on contemporary epic fantasy and the continuing appeal of the Green Bone Saga. Readers who have not discovered her work yet have an excellent opportunity to explore one of the genre's most distinctive modern fantasy series.
Recommended starting point: Jade City.
7. R. F. Kuang
R. F. Kuang is known for writing ambitious speculative fiction that explores history, power, war, language, and social conflict.
Her most recognizable fantasy works include The Poppy War trilogy and Babel: An Arcane History. Both demonstrate her interest in connecting imaginative storytelling with real-world historical and political themes.
Kuang's writing is particularly distinctive because her fictional worlds are rarely simple places of heroes and villains. Instead, readers encounter complicated characters, competing interests, and difficult moral questions.
Her approach makes her an interesting choice for readers who want fantasy novels with intellectual depth and substantial themes.
Why watch her in 2027?
Kuang is an author worth following because of her influence on modern literary fantasy and the continued interest in her existing works. Readers should follow official announcements for future projects rather than assume that an unannounced 2027 release is confirmed.
Recommended starting point: Babel: An Arcane History.
8. Tasha Suri
Tasha Suri has developed a distinctive position in contemporary fantasy through her use of South Asian-inspired settings, mythology, political intrigue, and character-driven storytelling.
Her best-known works include The Jasmine Throne, the first book in the Burning Kingdoms trilogy, and Empire of Sand, which begins the Books of Ambha series.
Suri's fantasy worlds are especially interesting because they draw inspiration from cultural traditions and mythological influences that are less frequently represented in mainstream Western fantasy.
Her writing explores power, identity, religion, family, and the complicated relationships between individuals and institutions.
Why watch her in 2027?
Readers have another reason to follow Suri through her upcoming fantasy novel The Isle in the Silver Sea, which has been announced as a 2027 release.
Her distinctive worldbuilding and interest in mythology make her an author worth discovering, particularly for readers seeking fantasy beyond familiar medieval European settings.
Recommended starting point: The Jasmine Throne.
9. Rebecca Roanhorse
Rebecca Roanhorse is an important contemporary fantasy and science fiction author known for bringing Indigenous perspectives, mythology, and innovative worldbuilding into speculative fiction.
Her fantasy works include Black Sun, the first installment of the Between Earth and Sky series, and Trail of Lightning, which introduces readers to a post-apocalyptic world influenced by Diné mythology.
Roanhorse creates imaginative settings that challenge familiar fantasy conventions. Her stories often explore cultural identity, power, survival, and the relationship between traditional beliefs and changing societies.
Her approach offers readers something different from conventional fantasy narratives.
Why watch her in 2027?
Roanhorse remains an author worth following for her distinctive voice and contribution to modern speculative fiction. Readers interested in mythology-inspired fantasy and fresh approaches to worldbuilding should explore her existing novels and follow future publishing announcements.
Recommended starting point: Black Sun.
10. Margaret Rogerson
Margaret Rogerson has become a recognizable name in young adult fantasy, particularly among readers who enjoy magical settings, mysterious supernatural characters, and atmospheric storytelling.
Her popular books include An Enchantment of Ravens, Sorcery of Thorns, and Vespertine.
Rogerson has a particular talent for creating fantasy environments that feel magical without becoming unnecessarily complicated. Her stories frequently combine folklore-inspired elements, supernatural mysteries, and personal journeys.
Her writing is especially appealing to readers who enjoy standalone fantasy novels with imaginative concepts and memorable characters.
Why watch her in 2027?
Her upcoming novel Knight Eternal is scheduled for publication in April 2027. The story promises another magical adventure featuring an enchanted knight and a mysterious royal world.
It is a particularly interesting release for readers looking for new young adult fantasy.
Recommended starting point: Sorcery of Thorns.
11. Danielle L. Jensen
Danielle L. Jensen has built a readership through fantasy romance novels featuring political intrigue, complicated relationships, powerful characters, and immersive fictional kingdoms.
Her books include The Bridge Kingdom, a series that combines political conflict with romantic fantasy, and A Fate Inked in Blood, which explores a world influenced by Norse mythology.
Jensen's storytelling often places characters in situations where personal relationships conflict with political responsibilities and competing loyalties.
This balance makes her particularly appealing to readers who enjoy romantasy with substantial fantasy worldbuilding.
Why watch her in 2027?
Jensen deserves attention as a contemporary fantasy romance author whose existing series have attracted a dedicated audience. Readers should follow her official announcements for any confirmed upcoming projects and publication dates.
Recommended starting point: The Bridge Kingdom.
12. Nghi Vo
Nghi Vo offers a different kind of fantasy experience through atmospheric storytelling, literary imagination, and inventive approaches to mythology and folklore.
She is best known for The Singing Hills Cycle, which begins with The Empress of Salt and Fortune.
Her stories often explore memory, history, identity, and the way narratives influence how people understand the world around them.
Unlike lengthy epic fantasy novels, many of Vo's works are relatively short. This makes them excellent choices for readers interested in thoughtful fantasy that can be enjoyed in smaller installments.
Why watch her in 2027?
Vo deserves recognition for expanding the possibilities of modern fantasy. Her work demonstrates that imaginative worldbuilding does not always require enormous books or complicated magical systems.
Readers who enjoy literary fantasy and original storytelling should explore her bibliography.
Recommended starting point: The Empress of Salt and Fortune.
13. S. A. Chakraborty
S. A. Chakraborty, also known as Shannon Chakraborty, is celebrated for writing fantasy inspired by Middle Eastern history, mythology, and folklore.
Her best-known series, The Daevabad Trilogy, begins with The City of Brass. It introduces readers to a richly imagined world involving djinn, ancient political rivalries, supernatural powers, and complicated family histories.
One of Chakraborty's greatest strengths is her ability to create settings that feel culturally and historically layered.
Her novels are especially appealing to readers who want fantasy worlds that move beyond familiar European-inspired kingdoms.
Why watch her in 2027?
Chakraborty remains an important contemporary fantasy author because of her distinctive storytelling and the lasting appeal of her existing books.
Readers who have not yet explored the Daevabad Trilogy should consider adding it to their reading lists.
Recommended starting point: The City of Brass.
14. Kiran Millwood Hargrave
Kiran Millwood Hargrave is an award-winning author known for imaginative storytelling, historical influences, mythology, and atmospheric fictional settings.
Her writing often combines historical elements with magical or speculative ideas, creating stories that appeal to readers interested in literary fantasy.
One of her most notable upcoming projects is City of Saints, her first adult fantasy novel.
Why watch her in 2027?
City of Saints is scheduled for publication in September 2027 through Tor's Wildthorn imprint.
The novel is described as a literary reimagining of Joan of Arc and is planned as the first installment of an epic fantasy duology.
This project makes Hargrave particularly interesting to readers who enjoy fantasy influenced by historical events and legendary figures.
Recommended starting point: Explore her earlier historical and mythological fiction before moving into her upcoming adult fantasy work.
15. Tasha Suri's Contemporary Peers: Emerging Fantasy Voices to Discover
Beyond established bestselling authors, fantasy readers should also make room for newer writers who are developing distinctive approaches to the genre.
One particularly interesting author to discover is Elaine U. Cho, whose upcoming fantasy novel The Library of Fates has attracted attention in 2027 release listings.
Her work represents the wider range of imaginative stories entering the fantasy market, including novels that draw from different cultural backgrounds and explore unusual supernatural settings.
Another writer worth following is Holly Race, whose Six Savage Thrones is scheduled for January 2027. The book continues her Queens of Elben fantasy trilogy.
Readers should also explore Usman T. Malik, whose upcoming novel A Dark and Narrow House is scheduled for April 2027 and offers a distinctive approach to speculative horror and fantasy.
These writers demonstrate why discovering new fantasy authors is so rewarding. The next major fantasy favorite may come from a writer whose name is only beginning to attract attention.
What Makes These Fantasy Authors Stand Out in 2027?
The fantasy genre is constantly changing. While traditional epic fantasy remains popular, contemporary writers are experimenting with different approaches to worldbuilding, character development, mythology, and storytelling.
Several important trends help explain why these authors deserve attention.
1. More Diverse Fantasy Worlds
Modern fantasy increasingly draws inspiration from cultures, histories, and mythologies beyond traditional European medieval settings.
Authors such as Tasha Suri, Rebecca Roanhorse, and S. A. Chakraborty demonstrate how different cultural influences can create memorable fictional worlds.
These perspectives introduce readers to unfamiliar traditions, magical systems, and storytelling approaches.
2. More Complex Characters
Today's fantasy readers often want characters who feel realistic, complicated, and capable of meaningful development.
Modern fantasy authors frequently explore personal identity, difficult decisions, conflicting loyalties, and the consequences of power.
These elements make fictional characters more memorable and give readers additional reasons to become invested in their stories.
3. Innovative Magic Systems
Magic remains one of fantasy literature's most recognizable features, but contemporary writers continue to experiment with how it works.
Some authors develop detailed systems with clearly defined rules and limitations, while others use magic as a mysterious force connected to mythology, religion, or nature.
The result is a genre filled with increasingly imaginative approaches to supernatural abilities.
4. The Growing Popularity of Romantasy
Romantasy, which combines romance and fantasy, has become one of the most recognizable areas of contemporary fantasy publishing.
Authors such as Rebecca Yarros, Sarah J. Maas, and Danielle L. Jensen demonstrate how relationships, emotional conflicts, and magical settings can work together to create engaging stories.
However, romantasy is only one part of the wider fantasy genre. Readers can still find traditional epic adventures, dark fantasy, literary fantasy, and mythology-inspired fiction.
5. Fantasy Beyond Traditional Series
Although long-running fantasy series remain popular, standalone novels and shorter fantasy collections continue to offer alternatives.
Authors such as Nghi Vo demonstrate that fantasy storytelling can be imaginative and meaningful without requiring readers to commit to a ten-book series.
This variety makes the genre more accessible to different reading preferences.
Upcoming Fantasy Books to Look Forward to in 2027
One of the best ways to discover fantasy authors is to follow their upcoming publications.
Several interesting projects already have announced 2027 publication dates.
Here are some releases worth adding to your reading calendar:
| Book | Author | Expected release |
|---|---|---|
| A Court of Forgotten Melody | Sarah J. Maas | January 12, 2027 |
| Infernal Vow | Tigest Girma | January 5, 2027 |
| Knight Eternal | Margaret Rogerson | April 2027 |
| Fourth Wing: The Graphic Novel, Volume One | Rebecca Yarros | April 6, 2027 |
| The Strength of the Few | James Islington | June 1, 2027 |
| Overworld | Will Wight | Spring 2027 |
| City of Saints | Kiran Millwood Hargrave | September 2027 |
Publication dates can differ between countries and formats. Always check the publisher's official listing for the edition you intend to read.
It is also worth remembering that an author being active in 2027 does not necessarily mean they have announced a new novel for that year. Some of the writers featured in this guide are included because of their existing contributions and continuing influence on fantasy literature.
Different Fantasy Genres to Explore in 2027
Not every fantasy reader enjoys the same kind of story. Fortunately, the genre includes several distinct subgenres, each offering a different reading experience.
1. Epic Fantasy
Epic fantasy focuses on expansive fictional worlds, major conflicts, complicated political systems, and large casts of characters.
Readers who enjoy detailed worldbuilding should explore James Islington, Fonda Lee, and Sarah J. Maas.
2. Dark Fantasy
Dark fantasy combines traditional fantasy elements with mysterious settings, supernatural themes, and morally complicated characters.
Readers interested in darker storytelling may enjoy Tigest Girma and Rebecca Roanhorse.
3. Romantasy
Romantasy combines fantasy adventures with romantic relationships and emotional character development.
Rebecca Yarros, Danielle L. Jensen, and Sarah J. Maas are excellent authors to explore in this category.
4. Young Adult Fantasy
Young adult fantasy often focuses on identity, friendship, personal growth, and discovering extraordinary abilities.
Margaret Rogerson and Tigest Girma are interesting starting points for readers exploring this category.
5. Mythology-Inspired Fantasy
Mythology-inspired fantasy draws from traditional legends, religious stories, folklore, and cultural traditions.
Tasha Suri, S. A. Chakraborty, and Rebecca Roanhorse offer particularly interesting examples.
6. Literary Fantasy
Literary fantasy places considerable emphasis on language, atmosphere, symbolism, and deeper themes.
Readers looking for a more reflective experience should explore Nghi Vo and R. F. Kuang.
How to Discover Your Next Favorite Fantasy Author
Finding a new fantasy author can be just as exciting as discovering a new book series. However, with so many novels published every year, knowing where to begin can make the process easier.
Here are several practical ways to discover your next favorite writer.
1. Explore Recommendations from Other Readers
Online book communities can introduce you to authors you might never encounter through traditional recommendations.
Look for discussions about your favorite fantasy books and pay attention to writers frequently recommended by readers with similar interests.
2. Follow Upcoming Book Releases
Publishing announcements are an excellent way to discover new authors and follow established writers.
Publisher websites, author newsletters, and upcoming release calendars can help you identify interesting books before their publication dates.
3. Explore Different Fantasy Subgenres
If you usually read epic fantasy, consider trying mythology-inspired fantasy or literary fantasy.
Exploring different subgenres can introduce you to completely different storytelling styles.
4. Give Debut Authors a Chance
Established authors are often easier to discover, but debut writers deserve attention too.
A new author may introduce an original concept, an unusual magical system, or a fresh approach to familiar fantasy themes.
5. Follow Your Favorite Authors
Author websites and official social media accounts are useful sources of information about new books, interviews, publishing announcements, and upcoming projects.
Following writers whose work you enjoy can help you stay informed about their future publications.
Final Thoughts: Which Fantasy Authors Should You Read in 2027?
The fantasy genre has an exciting future, and 2027 promises plenty of opportunities for readers to discover extraordinary stories.
From James Islington's intricate epic fantasy and Will Wight's progression-based adventures to Tasha Suri's mythology-inspired worlds and Rebecca Yarros's popular romantasy, the authors featured in this guide represent the variety and creativity that make fantasy literature so appealing.
Established writers continue to expand their fictional worlds, while emerging voices introduce new ideas, cultural influences, and storytelling approaches.
You do not need to follow every popular author to enjoy what the genre has to offer. Instead, explore different writing styles, experiment with unfamiliar subgenres, and look for stories that genuinely interest you.
Your next favorite fantasy book might come from an internationally recognized bestseller or a debut author publishing their first novel.
Which fantasy authors are you most excited to read in 2027? Share your recommendations in the comments and help other fantasy readers discover their next great adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fantasy Authors in 2027
1. Who are the best fantasy authors to watch in 2027?
Some notable fantasy authors to follow in 2027 include Sarah J. Maas, James Islington, Will Wight, Rebecca Yarros, Tasha Suri, Tigest Girma, and Margaret Rogerson. They represent different areas of contemporary fantasy, including epic fantasy, romantasy, progression fantasy, and young adult fantasy.
2. Who are the most popular modern fantasy authors?
Popular modern fantasy authors include Brandon Sanderson, Sarah J. Maas, Rebecca Yarros, R. F. Kuang, James Islington, Fonda Lee, and Samantha Shannon. Their works cover a wide range of fantasy styles and storytelling approaches.
3. Who are the best emerging fantasy writers?
Readers interested in emerging fantasy writers should explore newer voices such as Tigest Girma and other debut and early-career authors entering the publishing market. Following publisher announcements and debut book lists is also an excellent way to discover new talent.
4. What fantasy books are coming out in 2027?
Some announced 2027 fantasy releases include The Strength of the Few by James Islington, Overworld by Will Wight, Infernal Vow by Tigest Girma, and A Court of Forgotten Melody by Sarah J. Maas.
Other upcoming titles include City of Saints by Kiran Millwood Hargrave and Knight Eternal by Margaret Rogerson.
5. What are the best fantasy authors for beginners?
Readers new to fantasy can start with accessible and engaging authors such as Margaret Rogerson, Rebecca Yarros, Sarah J. Maas, and Will Wight. The best starting point depends on whether you prefer romantic fantasy, magical adventures, epic storytelling, or progression-based fantasy.
6. Who writes the best epic fantasy novels?
Some highly regarded modern epic fantasy authors include Brandon Sanderson, James Islington, Fonda Lee, Samantha Shannon, and R. F. Kuang. Their books offer different approaches to worldbuilding, political intrigue, magic, and character development.
7. What are the best fantasy authors similar to Brandon Sanderson?
Readers who enjoy Brandon Sanderson's detailed magic systems, imaginative worldbuilding, and interconnected storytelling may enjoy James Islington, Will Wight, and Fonda Lee.
8. How can I discover new fantasy authors?
You can discover new fantasy authors by exploring book recommendations, following publishing announcements, joining online reading communities, browsing debut fantasy releases, and reading award-nominated novels.
The most effective approach is to explore different fantasy subgenres rather than limiting yourself to the authors you already know.