8 Portal Fantasy Books To Read In 2025

Portal fantasy books have long captivated readers by offering an exciting escape from the mundane world into realms of magic, mystery, and adventure. The best portal fantasy novels often feature protagonists who find themselves swept away to alternate realities, discovering new lands and encountering unforgettable characters. If you are a fan of this genre, you are in for a treat. Below is a list of 8 portal fantasy books to read in 2025.

1. The Invisible Library by Genevieve Cogman

While The Invisible Library can be classified as a series, the first book stands well on its own and offers an incredible exploration of portal fantasy. In this story, Irene, a librarian for a mysterious organization, travels between alternate worlds to collect rare books. Each world has its own set of rules and laws of magic, and Irene’s mission to retrieve these valuable books becomes increasingly dangerous as she encounters both magical and human enemies.

The Invisible Library itself is a portal between these different worlds, offering a bridge to countless realms.

2. The Magicians by Lev Grossman

In The Magicians, Lev Grossman gives readers a more adult, gritty take on portal fantasy. The protagonist, Quentin Coldwater, discovers that the magical world he’s always dreamed of, Fillory, is real—and much darker than he ever imagined. As Quentin enters Brakebills College for Magical Pedagogy, he must grapple with the realities of magic, responsibility, and the emotional challenges that come with living in a fantasy world.

This series presents a modern twist on the genre, perfect for readers looking for a more sophisticated portal fantasy experience.

3. The House at the Edge of Night by Catherine Banner

In The House at the Edge of Night, Catherine Banner presents a magical realist story set on a small island off the coast of Italy. The novel follows generations of one family as they live and love, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected lives. The island serves as a portal to the past, where secrets of the family’s history and its connection to the mystical elements of the land come to light.

The story offers a blend of family drama, historical narrative, and light fantasy, drawing readers into a world where the boundary between reality and magical possibilities is beautifully blurred. The House at the Edge of Night is a standalone novel that is perfect for readers who enjoy stories that feel magical without relying on traditional fantasy tropes.

4. Stardust by Neil Gaiman

In Stardust, Neil Gaiman crafts a beautifully written tale about a young man named Tristran Thorn, who ventures into a magical land to retrieve a fallen star for his beloved. However, the star is not what Tristran expects—it’s a living, breathing woman named Yvaine.

Stardust is a richly imaginative portal fantasy novel that mixes adventure, romance, and humor. Its standalone nature, coupled with the enchanting world-building, makes it a perfect read for anyone looking for a magical adventure without committing to a series.

5. The Rithmatist by Brandon Sanderson

In The Rithmatist, Brandon Sanderson presents a world where magical chalk drawings can come to life and battle each other. The protagonist, Joel, longs to be a Rithmatist, someone who can wield this power. The book blends magical education, mystery, and adventure with a unique magic system. Though it is not strictly a portal fantasy in the traditional sense, the magical worlds and alternate realities that are explored offer a thrilling portal-esque experience.

The intricate world-building and exciting plot make The Rithmatist a standout in the genre.

6. The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson

The Way of Kings, part of the Stormlight Archive series, offers readers a massive, epic world filled with complex characters and a rich history of magical realms. The book is set in the world of Roshar, where powerful storms shape both the landscape and the culture. As the story unfolds, several characters discover hidden truths about the magical forces at work on the planet.

While not a traditional portal fantasy, the Way of Kings presents a journey that can transport readers into an entirely new world.

7. Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke

In Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, magic is real but has faded from England. The story follows two magicians, the reclusive Mr. Norrell and the daring Jonathan Strange, as they seek to revive magic in the country, though their methods and ambitions lead them down different paths. As Mr. Norrell and Strange experiment with magic, they encounter otherworldly portals that connect them to darker, supernatural forces.

The novel’s alternate version of 19th-century England is intricately detailed, and the portal fantasy elements are central to the story’s development.

8. The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle

The Last Unicorn is a classic portal fantasy that follows an aging unicorn who sets out to find others of her kind after realizing that she is the last of her species. As she journeys through magical lands and encounters an array of strange creatures, she is transformed into a human woman and must come to terms with her identity and purpose in a world that has changed around her.

Beagle’s novel is both poetic and profound, with a deep undercurrent of melancholy and hope. The story explores themes of immortality, transformation, and the power of self-discovery, all while immersing readers in a vivid and enchanting world.

Conclusion

Portal fantasy books have the unique ability to transport readers to magical worlds, offering new realms to explore and heroes to follow. Whether you're looking for something nostalgic or something darker and more modern there's a portal fantasy novel for every reader.

Explore these 8 portal fantasy books and immerse yourself in the endless possibilities that await beyond the doors of ordinary reality.