My favorite fantasy reads since starting the channel - and friends who’ve helped me to love them!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I neglected to mention one fantastic collaboration on the action in First Law, including Age of Madness, hosted by The Brothers Gwynne and including Mike and myself!

[@michaelk.vaughan8617]

We thank you for being a shining light of positivity on BookTube.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much, Michael! I hope I will have the chance to be in a chat with you someday!

[@merphynapier42]

What an honor to be mentioned in this video! And I’m so happy you’ve loved the series enough for it to make it into your list. It’s one of my new favorites too and I can’t wait to discuss the third arc with you as well!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Merphy, and the honor is mine! I'm actually enjoying arc 3 of Vinland Saga a lot so far -- I have thoughts that I'm looking forward to sharing, and I can't wait to hear yours!

[@marklawrence8418]

Many thanks for the shout out - and some fine company to be in there.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

My pleasure, Mark! If you keep writing fantastic books, I'll keep shouting!

[@BaldBookTuber]

I speak for literally everyone when I say you are appreciated Philip. Thanks for being a gifted connector for this community, and I look so forward to our Hobb chats.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much, Scot -- that's very kind! I'm really excited for our Realm of the Elderlings discussions!

[@麗麗-k2h]

“I'm an old dog but I can learn new tricks" I lol'd ur so cute! Ur videos make me so happy

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! I’m very glad that you enjoy the videos! 😊

[@PetrikLeo]

Truth and Courage, Philip! I'm still so pleased you end up reading all of Gwynne's books and loving them. The Banished Lands Saga chat together is still one of my highlights on booktube. What a feat we did on that! This is actually a great idea for a video, too. So many amazing series and awesome booktubers. I will try to work on one as well! :D

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks, my friend! Our Banished Land collaborations are very special for me too. I would LOVE to see your response to this video!!! Truth and Courage!

[@Johanna_reads]

Philip, this was wonderful! Thank you for being such a gracious, inspiring friend and influence in this community! It's always an honor to be in discussions with you, and you were already a positive influence on my reading journey before I started my channel. Every conversation has deepened my reading experience, adding layers of wonder, meaning, and connection. Wishing you many more great reads and discussions! 🤍

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Johanna! I will never be able to express how much I appreciate and treasure your company here on BookTube!

[@MattsFantasyBookReviews]

Philip, it makes me SO happy to see the Esslemont books on here, as well as the Bauchelain & Korbal Broach novellas. Malazan fans are doing themselves a major disservice when they read Book of the Fallen and ignore the other amazing works in this universe. Great video!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I couldn’t agree more with you, Matt! To me, all the Malazan series complement and enrich each other beautifully. Such an incredible achievement by both authors!

[@mikesbookreviews]

I do the worst books I've read since starting my channel and you have to one up me by doing the best books...maybe AP was right about you after all. (this is sarcasm, for those who would dare to think otherwise)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ha ha! Let's call it a Yin-Yang thing. As for the Nemesis, never fall for his propaganda! He is a diabolical genius, after all.

[@Caru14]

My favorite thing about Philip Chase is that he brings the book tube community together in a unifying and encouraging way. What a great community to be a part of for sure!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you so much! My gratitude for the kindness I continually find from members of our community is immeasurable. All the best!

[@ferenvelaslanza]

What wonderful journey and so much discovery. I'm reading Dark Tower 7 myself, and I'm liking it a lot. Gracias Phillip por tus maravillosas discusiones y tu manera tan especial y profunda de analizar y disfrutar los libros. Me dan ganas de leer más.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Gracias, Fernando! Perhaps we will be arriving at the Dark Tower at the same time! I wish you the very best for that journey and for all your reading.

[@KalleVilenius]

Keeping with the theme of old Norse stuff, I'm going to drop a recommendation for William T. Vollmann's The Ice-Shirt. It's a novel about the early encounters between vikings and Native Americans, from the discovery of Greenland up to and including Thorfinn's attempts at settling North America. It features a lot of Norse myths in it and even Inuit myths are woven into the same narrative. Sometimes it feels very much like a well-researched piece of historical fiction and at other times it's utterly fantastical (and sometimes there's asides to the year 1987 when Vollmann was doing research for the book). Don't think I've ever read anything quite like it. The Ice-Shirt is the first of several books he's written (and is still writing) about the encounters and conflicts between Europeans and North-American natives in what he calls The Seven Dreams series. Having finished The Ice-Shirt yesterday I now definitely plan on reading all of them.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Wow! Thank you, Kalle! This sounds like a perfect recommendation. I'm going to check out The Ice-Shirt after replying to all these comments.

[@EricMcLuen]

Sometimes it is the books that are the excuse just to hang out with friends. But it is always fascinating to hear about books new and old and the variety of opinions about them.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Very true! I suppose we’re little different from older cultures whose members gathered round the fire to exchange stories. Cheers, Eric!

[@WordsinTime]

This was a fun book journey! I focus on sci-fi for my channel but I will use a broad definition so I can squeeze in The Dark Tower in 2023!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

That’s a legitimate inclusion since there is indeed plenty of science fiction - as well as fantasy, horror, western, meta fiction, and who knows what else - in Dark Tower. I hope you’ll enjoy it!

[@WordsinTime]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Thanks for the info on the series! I’m excited for it!

[@alexthiebaut2195]

Yes, Piranesi is one of the best novels published in recent years. Amazing work by Clarke, especially considering her illness. It's an instant classic

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Both of Clarke’s novels have deeply impressed me, so much so that I have decided that I must read her short story collection as well someday. I hope her health will allow her to write more. Cheers, Alex!

[@alexthiebaut2195]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I need to get to her first novel, it's been sitting on my shelf for over a year. I know I'm going to love it but then they'll be nothing else to read from her, in long form, afterwards. Let's hope she can produce more novels in the future.

[@jackmckenzie926]

David Gemmell, you keep pushing him back and he is definitely on of the best of fantasy. Merry Christmas. Have a great holiday season.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I definitely need to read Gemmell! 2023 will be the year. I’ve asked someone to read Legend with me, and when he’s ready, we’ll go for it. Merry Christmas to you too!

[@alexnieves]

Thanks KZbin, how did I just now see this? You are such an awesome part of booktube Philip and undisputed smartest person among us! Chatting about the Gwynne books with you and the crew was so much fun and I think collaborations continue to be the absolute best part about this community. Maybe we can talk about some Dark Tower in the future, I'm currently on Wolves of the Calla and it's awesome.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks, Alex! In fact, I was about to reach out to you to see if you’d like to be my guest for an episode of Dear Dr. Fantasy in January. Then we can palaver on Dark Tower and anything else we like! I’ll send you an email.

[@DoUnicornsRead]

What a wonderful idea for a favourite reads video, Philip! I'm very honored to be part of this amazing BookTube community and to collaborate with you. And what could be better than reading and discussing a series that has friendship as one of it's main themes with a friend! Your channel is only around for two and a half years? It feels as if I'm watching you for much longer.😁

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Angela! I agree that it's highly appropriate that we will be discussing friendship during our collaboration!

[@ManCarryingThing]

fantastic list and great video as always! always making me want to pick up new series

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks, Jake! If you ever do pick up one you’d like to chat about with me, don’t hesitate to reach out. All the best!

[@MrRorosuri]

Watching people's favorites is always fun

[@angelaholmes8888]

Yeah it is 😊

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I prefer it to watching people's least favorites any day!

[@BooksWithBenghisKahn]

What an awesome video! Here’s to our joint quest to find the best of Fantasy!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Yes, Ben! And if we never finish our quest, we will have succeeded!

[@RedFuryBooks]

Very fun video! I love your raving about the collaborations, because that's such a fun thing on BookTube, both as a collaborator and a viewer. Looking forward to that top 10 list!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks, Josh! If I ever gather the courage to make another top ten list, I’m supremely confident that Hobb will still be on it!

[@susanna4972]

I love this video (and others like it) that not only serves as a "best of" list but also recognizes a reader's journey.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks, Susanna! Starting a channel has definitely been a journey, one with a ton of learning involved.

[@hannahblackwellbooks]

I read Ship of Magic a few months ago and LOVED it! I absolutely cannot wait to continue with it.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

To me, Liveship Traders gets even better with each book. My best to you for the read, Hannah!

[@slowlyred2082]

I still think about the Wheel of Oshiem, quite frequently. Such an amazing book. Always a pleasure to be able to talk books with you. 🙏

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Likewise, my friend! We’ll have to find an excuse to chat again!

[@slowlyred2082]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy absolutely 😉

[@Praetorian_Rex]

I'm happy that you've discovered so many great authors and books through booktube. Booktube is truly a great community which has opened my eyes to many more amazing books and reading experiences, and your channel is one of my go-to channels for this. I appreciate your thoughtful reviews and discussions.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much for the kind words! I’m glad you’ve experienced this community in a manner similar to my experience. It’s a wonderfully supportive group of book lovers.

[@YouWinILose]

Always a pleasure to hear your excitement Philip! I'm particularly grateful to see the Long Price on there, I think we shared the shiver thinking about Price of Spring!! I also can't wait for you to join the cult of R. Scott Bakker, I think some of the discussions you'll have with his Prince of Nothing trilogy will be very rewarding.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Ewan! Bakker is immensely talented, and I’m intrigued to see where he takes the series. As for LPQ, it’s hard to think of another series where each book builds on the previous ones so beautifully.

[@nikosbookreviews]

So many great books! Really enjoyed the LPQ discussions as well! I absolutely can't wait for you to read Tawny Man! I'm also excited to see you read Greenbone Saga because I think you'll enjoy them for the same reason I did (which is not why most people do lol)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Now I’m extra curious about Green Bone Saga . . . 😁 The LPQ chats were fantastic, and I hope to have more discussions with you, Niko!

[@Danny_Matson]

I've been here following your reads and channel for almost the whole time you've had it and its been great to see you gradually get more involved in the community and find so many great books... As well as spread the word to all of us on these great books. Thank you always for your contribution Philip.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Danny! Hearing from those of who who’ve been supporting the channel the longest always gives me an extra smile. Cheers, my friend!

[@lucasbertsche3710]

I’ve been hearing a lot of talk and hype around The Realm of the Elderlings (especially liveship) lately from you, Mike, Merphy, and more. I’m thinking that might have to be the series I dive into next!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’m happy to be in the company of Mike and Merphy anytime, but Realm of the Elderlings really is one of the pillars of fantasy. I hope you’ll enjoy it, Lucas!

[@MattonBooks]

You’re a booktube treasure, Herr Professor Doktor Fantasie. 😘 Looking forward to visiting Urth with you next year! 😀

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It shall be an adventure! 😁

[@avi4905]

Thank you for the wonderful and very inspiring video. What a fantastic journey. Hope you continue sharing your thoughts and experience with your followers for many years to come.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much, Avi! It is all the kind people who watch and comment that make this so meaningful, and I will always appreciate them!

[@AnithaGadeReads]

I am sooo happy to see Long Price Quartet in this list. Price of Spring is the best book I read. I loved that series. And I am currently reading Tawny Man trilogy and it's just brilliant. Great video, Philip! You are such a wonderful influence in the community and an inspiration to be more positive.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you so much, Anitha! I deeply appreciate your kind words. Yes, LPQ is so excellent, isn't it?

[@angelamccollister]

You are a class act. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and passion for books.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks for the kindness and encouragement, Angela!

[@vaughnroycroft999]

So I'm watching the wrap-up portion, already excited by all of the great reads and collaborations you're describing, and imagine my shock to suddenly hear my name! Wedged in with so many of my heroes! No, I take it back. It can't be imagined. Oh my. Stole my breath. I'm so honored. I've discovered so many wonderful favorites due to this community (and it really is a community, because of the collaborative vibe established by folks like you). BookTube propelled me through all of John Gwynne's catalog, and I, too, have marveled at his growth. Also, I doubt I would've read The Green Bone Saga, and it's my favorite series of the year. To name a few. Excellent video, full of so much positivity! Can't thank you enough for all you do. But mostly for hugely helping to make this one of the most special and memorable years of my life. And I can't wait to have you read on with The Sundered Nation. Knowing you're excited to do so is such a special gift--one that will fuel me through the work ahead of its release.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I can't wait to read book two of Sundered Nation, Vaughn! In turn, I hope you will do me the honor of reading my book when it finally emerges into the world. In the meantime, yes, this is a wonderful community to be part of!

[@vaughnroycroft999]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Oh, I absolutely cannot wait to read your work! One of my most anticipated reads!

[@MacScarfield]

As always a pleasure to watch you Professor, and your cultivation of this space of Booktube📚! Huzzah and skål to that🎉🍻 ) Also looking forward to your “Legend” Discussion with Doc AP and of course the “EXTREME MEDITATION” of your own “Buddhist Beowulf” Story! (And don’t you worry, me and Jake Bishop will keep nudging you to read GGK next year too (apologies in advance 😂), and maybe me and @libraryofaviking will also get you on to some historical/fantasy European Cartoons/Graphic Novels? Anyway, Cheers Professor🥂!)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I always love your recommendations, MacScarfield, so please keep them coming! I will get to GGK on the channel eventually, but reminders never hurt. Also, yes, I'm extremely excited for the Gemmell reads, starting with Legend. I'm not sure yet, but I hope Legend at least will happen sooner rather than later. All the best, my friend!

[@alynam82]

What an awesome video, Dr. Chase -- put me in such a good mood this Thursday morning

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It makes me very happy to hear that, Anthony -- your comment put a huge smile on my face!

[@Thecatladybooknook_PennyD]

Love this video!! I just finished Tawny Man and its now my favorite of the first 3 trilogies!!! SO SO GOOD!!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I am very much hoping to have the same reaction. Cheers, Penny!

[@darKuchiki]

Hey, just wanted to leave a comment saying how happy i am to have discovered your channel through your chats on Vinland Saga with Merphy (and I have been thoroughly impressed by your understanding of the story, positivity and overall open-mindedness when it comes to a new medium). As an avid manga reader I'm looking forward to more of these type of videos and potentially even some covering different mangas in the future, that would be awesome. I also wanted to say that I've been loving your other videos as well and even though I mostly read classics and non fiction books ( if i may ask what are some of your favorites ? ) , I've still dabbled in fantasy (mostly well known stuff such as asoiaf, lotr, mistborn, harry potter, dune...) but now thanks to you i want to jump back in and start reading more of it. I think i will start with the first law trilogy or robin hobb and who knows maybe in the future even some malazan (shudders at the sheer length of the thing). Anyways thank you for making content and being awesome !

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much for the kind words - I appreciate them more than I can say! Since my day job is that I’m a medievalist, my favorite reads outside fantasy tend to be pretty old ones, such Beowulf, the Old Norse Poetic Edda and Prose Edda, the Icelandic sagas, The Mabinogion, The Kalevala, and other ancient epics like The Iliad, The Odyssey, The Aeneid, and The Mahabharata. I do like all sorts of other reads from more recent eras too, though, and I tend to be eclectic in what I pick up. For nonfiction, I’ve read a lot of history (especially medieval), but I love science books for laypeople too, especially about stuff like the cosmos, the brain, or consciousness. Best wishes for your reading!

[@darKuchiki]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Awesome, thanks for answering. I am making my way through the Story of Civilization by Will Durant on audiobook ( currently on volume 3 which covers ancient rome ), i have to say that i am more fascinated by acient history than medieval at this point but that can change as i learn more. The surprising thing is that i have still not read any of The Illiad, The Odyssey, The Aeneid... but i plan read them very soon after learning more about this part of history. I did read the Prose and Poetic Edda though and enjoyed them both greatly as norse mythology is a favorite of mine. As for non fiction i do enjoy science books such as works by Stephen Hawking, Carl Sagan, Richard Feynman, Richard Dawkins..but my favorites are about the human experience and in particular struggle and facing adversity which inspire me greatly, works like Man's search for meaning by Viktor E. Frankl, Nothing to envy by Barbara Demick ( about the livre of north korean and their escape from the country ) Gulag Archipelago by Solzhenitsyn or any book by Svetlana Alexievitch. I also reciprocate your wishes for your reading and to hopefully more amazing videos like this one.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@darKuchiki Those sound like excellent and inspiring reads! All the best!

[@cami4f870]

It was really nice watching your discussions about Vinland Saga. even though I didn’t read all the book on your channel , your vide make me want to explore the different tittles 😊

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Cami! That is a very kind compliment, and I appreciate it deeply!

[@thebrothersgwynne]

What a list of books! We need to read the Long Price Quartet. The more Papa gwynne books the better :). We also plan to read Vinland Saga sometime soon. Loved all your thumbnails for those discussions 🤣. Especially for Book 4!!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, gents! Reading your father’s books has been one of my chief joys here on BookTube. I think you two will enjoy Vinland Saga, and I look forward to your thoughts!

[@curtjarrell9710]

Good vid acknowledging book word of mouth works, as well as friendship and connection. I discovered some of these books here as well. This is a good time to be a reader. Happy reading.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Curt! We are fortunate to be part of this wonderful community!

[@laylaazmigoushey5812]

You've made a valuable contribution to new readers of Malazan such as myself!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Layla! It means the world to me to read such kind words!

[@jeremyfee]

This was a great video. Impressive that you remember everyone that inspired you to read each book/series.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Jeremy! As you know, we have so many incredibly lovely people in this community.

[@fjuran1]

Great video. Have been watching your videos since you started, you're commentary has always been on point and has certainly pointed me in good directions. There is so much more that I hope you discover along the way. Thank you for all your time.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much, Frank! I deeply appreciate the support and the kindness. My best to you as well for your reading journeys!

[@RekindledReader]

Loved this video, Philip. So happy you're part of this community, you add so much value, it's incredible. You've reminded me to try some of your mentions sooner than later. Hope you have a fantastic November!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks, Theo! I’m glad you’re here too, and I look forward to being in a chat/s with you in the future!

[@Mjwestneat11]

Phillip, I say this on every video you post recently but I’m so stoked to hear your thoughts on the Dark Tower ending! I’ve just gone through a ton of your Reaper’s Gale content after my first read. What a book. Thanks for the content!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks, Michael! I’m in the midst of book seven, and I can’t believe how fast it’s going! Right now, I can’t imagine King disappointing this reader at least. All the best!

[@farhad_s]

Hope to see a Discworld book on this list in the future (and a mention of your collaboration with your dad!) Maybe Small Gods, Feet of Clay, or Witches Abroad.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I will definitely keep reading Discworld, Farhad, and I suspect the series will become more and more dear to me with each book. All the best!

[@chibipoe]

Great video, Philip! A neat list! I think I have most of these in my pile tbr, though. Can't wait to see if Wars of Light and Shadow jumps up into this list though!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I have a feeling about WoLaS, Chibipoe -- a VERY good feeling, but we shall see! Thanks so much for watching and for all the kindness!

[@MrRorosuri]

I love the positivity this channel brought you ^^

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! I feel incredibly lucky!

[@kdnu27]

I'm a bit late to the party, but I highly recommend (if you haven't read): The Dark Star trilogy by Marlon James The Orphan's Tales by Catherynne M. Valente (and her other works). The Folding Knife by K. J. Parker (and his other books)

[@Stewart000]

I can't imagine booktube with you. That's a fabulous selection of books & I am looking forward to the future chats.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much, Stewart! There’s a lot to look forward to around here!

[@liamschulzrules]

Loved finding your channel and watching you grow over your time here on KZbin. Looking forward to your episode of Dear Dr Fantasy with Bridger from The Library Ladder soon (wink wink nudge nudge)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much, Liam! I did check out The Library Ladder, and it would be awesome to connect. Thanks for all the support and comments! All the best!

[@madisongoodyear5040]

🥰🥰 so much love here!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

We are very lucky to be part of this beautiful community, and I’m glad you belong to it, Madison!

[@djsuth7727]

A good selection, Philip. I don't think I've discovered anything new yet via watching BookTubers, but I remain thankful to Mike for reminding me to give the Red Rising trilogy a second chance. The second book in particular is incredible.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’ll have to give Red Rising a try someday. Cheers, DJ!

[@brancellbooks]

Great video! I love what you said about the discussion surrounding these books; I’ve found new things to appreciate about books I love, new perspectives to see books I didn’t care for, and new lenses through which to view books I read in the future. I think participation in BookTube has truly helped me become a better reader, and that’s something I want to continue. I’ve considered creating a BookTube channel of my own to continue the discussion!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

That’s one of the best things about this community - how it raises us all up. If you do start that channel, Branej, be sure to let me know!

[@safinan8008]

Hi 👋 you’ve read some fantastic reads!! I hope 2023 reads go well for you aswell.... happy reading to you!! 🎥⚔️

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much, Safina! My very best to you for your reading too!

[@J.R.Carrel]

You are such a great friend and an awesome youtuber/teacher!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much, Joseph! It’s awesome to know you!

[@BookishChas]

I’m so glad you came to Booktube Philip. You’ve created such a fantastic experience with your presence and it shows. I’m very excited to eventually have our palaver and hear what you think of the end. I’m also curious to see your thoughts on Green Bone Saga. I loved it.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, my friend! Wow! I can't believe how fast book seven sprints out of the gates! I am looking forward to chatting with you about it soon!

[@esmayrosalyne]

This is such a wonderful video!! Long live the booktube community, what would we do without it?! So happy for you that you've had so many fun and profound reading experiences together with all these lovely people 🥰 LPQ and Dark Tower are absolutely the standout series that I would never have picked up on my own, but I am so glad I did. And this year Lezlie (The Nerdy Narrative) introduced me to The Risen Kingdoms series by Curtis Craddock, which has instantly become a new all-time favourite. Ah, this video just filled me with joy 🤩

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Esmay! We are very fortunate to be part of this beautiful community full of lovely people like Lezlie. I have learned so much!

[@justjuanreader]

What an exciting video! I for one am very excited to start reading the Long Price Quartet!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much, Juan! I hope you will love LPQ!

[@SamPegg90]

Sounds like such a great journey, and I’ve really enjoyed watching all of it. I agree, the long form chats are so great! I am very much looking forward to your review of The Dark Tower and the following palaver. I will be finished with it in the next couple of days and am dying to hear what you think!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Excellent timing, Sam! I am hoping to have my review of book 7 out next week, possibly Thursday. Thanks for the kind words!

[@MetalGildarts]

I also have booktube to thank for introducing me to John Gwynne. I love Faithful and The Fallen, better than Song of Ice and Fire, there I said it lol. Good to have you here Philip.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ha ha! That’s an admission that I have no problem with, Marco. No judgment here! 😁 Cheers, Marco!

[@noname3609]

This was refreshing.Thank you so much! Have u tried Berserk?! Can't recommend enough.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! Though I’m not sure which I’ll read next, Berserk is on my shortlist of mangas to try. All the best!

[@a.fleming4211]

I have picked up so many great reads from your channel as well. I cannot thank you enough for those. To highlight a few suggestions that came coincidentally from an author who I discovered from you: the Foreigner series by CJ Cherryh, and The Riddle-Master of Hed trilogy & Fool’s Run by Patricia McKillip, have been great reads. Keep it up, please. As I always need more books to read.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much! It makes me happy to know you’ve enjoyed any book I’ve recommended. Here’s to many more great reads!

[@paulwilliams6913]

I’m looking forward to when Book of the New Sun appears on a future iteration of this list :) Will you be at ICFA in March? God willing, I’ll have submitted my dissertation just before I leave for Orlando and so maybe I’ll even find myself relaxing by the pool for once. Two authors I’d recommend: John M. Ford (recently back in print and much too under-read) and Sean Stewart (criminally neglected!). Both wrote standalone books, and neither wrote anything more than 500 pages long, but damn are they good!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Oh, my very best wishes for the dissertation, Paul! I'm not sure about ICFA yet, but I should be making up my mind by year's end. I don't know if you'll be too busy to chat then, but I hope to start Book of the New Sun early next year. Cheers!

[@paulwilliams6913]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Trust me, Philip, I’m always happy to discuss New Sun. I won’t have time to reread it by then, but I’m still more than happy to discuss it :)

[@heidi6281]

I just purchased the new 3 omnibus editions of the Elric of Melniboné Saga. Has anyone recommended Elric to you… I hope they are good! Old school fantasy written in the 1970’s.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I definitely want to read Moorcock's books and cover them for the channel someday. I hope you'll enjoy Elric, Heidi!

[@tng_abu3201]

John gwynne is amazing I’ve read the bloodsworn trilogy ( first two books, waiting on the third ) all four books of the faithful and the fallen and I’m currently read his series that takes place 100-300 years after the events of the faithful and the fallen. Gwynne is my new favorite author

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Gwynne is amazing, indeed, and also a wonderful person! I’m glad you’re enjoying his books!

[@michaelvcelentano]

Thank you for the upbeat reviews! Always loving the discovery of new books. Have you read Christopher Ruocchio’s books? They’re more sci-fi/fantasy space opera, but he’s another great newer author!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

The Suneater books are very much on my radar, and I look forward to reading them someday. Cheers, Michael!

[@LWD-Hidden-Links]

Great watching with a cuppa tea! I was sad to leave Fitz and co for a few books and it took me a while to give the Liveship stuff a proper go - staggered me. Taught me how deep characters can be. There's causes behind some of them that no lie can put me in a sour mood thinking about them... I can't imagine loving a series more. It's like what Tolkien did to my 9 year old head. I'm partly surprised it can happen to me as an adult. Blown away!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Beautifully said! I think my adulthood has been spent looking to recreate what Tolkien did for me when I was twelve. Hobb and Steven Erikson are the two authors that have delivered similar experiences.

[@LWD-Hidden-Links]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy just off that I'm going to try Erikson - thanks!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@LWD-Hidden-Links My very best to you for the journey!

[@bookmarkswithjason9445]

I discovered Malazan because of this channel. Really enjoy your content.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you so much, Jason! I am happy to have helped in connecting you with Malazan.

[@DrMetalpin]

Many people have read books by Daniel Abraham and don’t even know it. The Expanse novels are co-authored by him.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Yes! I still haven’t read The Expanse, but I love LPQ.

[@djbogz1921]

Loved The Dark Tower series. It ended the way it was always going to end. Going to do a re read soon

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Awesome! I plan to reread it someday too, after I’ve read all the related King books.

[@djbogz1921]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I've read so many King books in the last year. Always a good read.

[@anothersarahreading9961]

You need to do a Durfee - a top 10 video which has 30 books on it 🤣 Thanks for the great videos 👍

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’m strongly considering doing a Durfee! 😁 Cheers, Sarah!

[@Caistyn]

You mention so much about your amazing collaborations, but neglect to give credit to your own wonderful insight into fantasy books. Thank you, Diolch yn fawr

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Diolch yn fawr iawn, Cai! I appreciate your kindness more than I can say!

[@claudiaiovanovici7569]

It was nice to hear about your favorites. But more than that, I love your ease when you speak. You seem so relaxed, so friendly, so open, so kind. Oh, and I love your name tag, right there next to the likely hindu statue. Sarasvati, perhapaps, given that she seems to be playing the sitar? I had ordered Hunger of the Gods and The Shadow of the Gods some time ago, but I didn't get into them yet, and now I have added the main series, which is on its way. Given your recommendation, I am curious to see how it goes. I have just finished Abercrombie's Best Served Cold and I am about to move to The Heroes, all while trying to muster the energy and focus to get back to Memories of Ice and continue my interviews with Erikson. Something tells me that if I open it, I won't be able to stop, so I might just try that. If you allow me a recommendation, have you tried Anthony Ryan's Raven's Blade series? It was recommended to me as resembling Malazan in atmosphere and I have enjoyed it a lot, even more so than Abercrombie, I must say, which is always very highly praised by a lot of people.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you so much for the kind words, Claudia! You are correct - that is indeed Sarasvati. It seems appropriate to have her near while discussing books. Thanks as well for the recommendation - I have not yet read Ryan’s books. And I look forward very much to your future chats with Steven Erikson! My very best to you and your loved ones!

[@praetorxyn]

I decided to join in on The Wars of Light and Shadow, about 41% through Curse of the Mistwraith now. Hoping I can finish that before whenever you all talk about it, and also before Lonesome Crown comes out on the 26th. Then I'll be hoping I can finish Lonesome Crown before Ashes of Man comes out on December 13th-ish. But I think I can do a book every two months.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Awesome! I think you’ll be safe finishing Curse of the Mistwraith before we discuss it. My best to you for the read!

[@praetorxyn]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I am more concerned about reading it before the other books come out, as Lonesome Crown and Ashes of Man will probably be big bois, so I'll be "booked" for 3 or 4 weeks, so if the discussion is before January I knew I wouldn't have time to get to it if I didn't read it now.

[@angelaholmes8888]

The liveship trader series is really great not surprised that the dark tower series is on your list definitely a great series even though the first law trilogy is good I absolutely love the age of madness trilogy it's definitely a big step up I'm definitely will be rereading the series someday

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I am completely with you about Age of Madness, Angela!

[@tnagel88]

Have you read Mary Stewart's Merlin series? I read it 20 years ago or so and loved it, and I hope to revisit it soon. I mention it because it almost seems like a precursor to Hobb. I think their writing styles are similar (Stewart's stories are first-person from the point of view of Merlin, beautiful prose, etc.). Anyway, I don't know if I'll still like them all this time later, but I thought I'd throw it out there.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Yes! I love Mary Stewart's Merlin books, and I agree that the lushness of Stewart's writing is reminiscent of Hobb's. I probably read them 30 years ago, so I'm due to revisit them too. Cheers, Todd!

[@KitschyBitsch]

Have you read The Ladies of Grace Adieu by Susanna Clarke? It’s a book of short stories, one of which is set at the same time as Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrel

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’ve heard about her short story collection, and I’d love to read it someday since I thoroughly enjoyed both of her novels. Thanks for reminding me!

[@seanhalpin87]

Any update on your book? I'm so excited for it

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

No word from publishers yet, but I’ve decided that, if I don’t have a publisher by the year’s end, I’m going to begin the process of self-publishing at the beginning of 2023. I’ll definitely make an announcement. Cheers, Sean!

[@seanhalpin87]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy either way I'm so stoked. Best of luck, if you need beta readers id be happy to help

[@currangill430]

I'm considering joining booktube!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Go for it, Curran!

[@antonchigurh22]

3:05 who are your 1st and 2nd favourite authors??🙂

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Steven Erikson and JRR Tolkien. Cheers!

[@saca653]

Do you read shadow of the wind by zafon.?. I really loved it and Piranesi has some similarities

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I haven’t read Shadow of the Wind, so thank you for the recommendation!

[@Paromita_M]

Great video!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much, Paromita!

[@andrewturner4873]

I'm interested in reading Malazan. Would you recommend just starting with book of the fallen or reading novels of the Malazan Empire at the same time?

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

The most common recommendation is to read all the Malazan books in publication order. This means reading the first six or so books in The Malazan Book of the Fallen before anything else anyway, so that definitely gives you time to decide. That said, you could read Esslemont’s Night of Knives anytime since it happens before Gardens of the Moon. The rest, however, should be read in publication order. Best wishes!

[@romalohase9147]

Excellent video :)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you so much! 🤍

[@jimave]

I finished Assail by Esslemont yesterday (12/6). I’ve read Malazan, Novels of Malazan, Path to Ascendancy and I’ve struggled with them. Most of the time, I don’t know what is going on and I lose track of the characters and locations. I tried to read John Gwynne and it didn’t resonate with me. I’ve about half of Mark Lawrence’s novels and I get tired of his depression representation of life. He’s writing style also doesn’t connect with me. Enough downers….Bookborn recommended Ken Liu’s the Dandelion Dynasty series. Great slow burn like Robin Hobb. I think you should read this series. I finished adrian Tchaikovsky’s Shadows of the Apt series and it is awesome! I should do a KZbin video about the series.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’m hoping to get to Dandelion Dynasty next year. It sounds fantastic!

[@kyleboon11]

I just assumed you had read green bone saga and was wondering how it didn't make the list. It's really good (this is probably the first time anyone has told you this :-P) Fonda Lee is as good at character work as Robin Hobb or Joe Abercrombie

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’ve got all three books, and they are calling me from the bookshelf! Cheers, Kyle!

[@iCocaColaZombieGod]

Still waiting on those crippled god chats with you and ap, Bring them on!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I am very much hoping they will happen, as soon as my Nemesis is ready. He has a lot going on right now, but I'll be ready for him!

[@adamaj74]

Love your channel! Have you read Tad Williams or Brandon Sanderson?

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! Yes, I have read both Tad Williams (Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn) and Brandon Sanderson (Mistborn and the first three Stormlight Archive books) and enjoyed their work very much.

[@danielmaidman9125]

I apologize for asking this here - I can't find a less public means of writing: can I submit a fantasy novel for your consideration? My first, "The Exile of Zanzibar," is coming out in May. Your videos are great.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Hello, Daniel! You can find me on Twitter at philipchase90. Also, you can email me at [e-mail]. I do love to read fantasy novels from self-published and indie press authors, but I should warn you upfront I have a very big pile of books already to get through and would likely not get to yours until late in the year. All the best!

[@danielmaidman9125]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy thank you! I'll email you - I really appreciate it.

[@harryrupam01]

That’s an idol of goddess Saraswati, on the table, right? 😅

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

That is indeed Saraswati! It’s good to have her around while talking about books. Cheers, Rupam!

[@TheLockon00]

My man, you gotta read Berserk.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It’s on my list! Cheers, Richard!

[@vargrhelsing8042]

Can you even keep up with the reccomendation from people now that you grown quite a bit?

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

The true answer is "no", but I'm going to try anyway! 😁

[@MrRorosuri]

💜💜

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Mr. Rorosuri!

[@cabrademora1]

:D

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Diego!

[@wyluli-dt9wv]

I have to assume that you read Guy Gavriel Kay's full library of work before you started your channel. There is no other explanation for failing to mention the greatest living fantasy author of our time.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

That's a fair assumption, but I've read only Tigana, and that was more than twenty years ago. That said, I loved it and still think about how excellent his prose is. I plan to reread it for the channel next year and move on to more GGK.

[@wyluli-dt9wv]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy "Tigana" is even better the second time around! Give "The Lions of Al-Rassan" or "A Song For Arbonne" a try in 2023. They're some of his best work.

[@robertogerendas]

I think realm of the elderlings is pretty overrated, the liveship traders fist two books are pure gold and awesome books, but the third book is way too long, way too repetitive and there is almost nothing relevant going on that wasnt already happening in the previous two books. This trend repeats in all of the trilogies of Robin Hobb, great two books for set-up and worldbuilding, and then a third book too long, repetitive and full of deux ex-machina. For the rest of your books I agree they are awesome and worth spending time in those universes.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks for your thoughts, Roberto!