There’s something truly magical about young adult fantasy — the way it sweeps us into breathtaking worlds, introduces us to unforgettable characters, and explores themes of courage, destiny, and self-discovery. But some of the most exciting and original stories in the genre aren’t coming from big publishers — they’re being crafted by independent authors who are pushing boundaries, carving out niche genres, and delivering fresh, immersive content straight to readers.
What makes an independently published YA fantasy series so compelling? Indie authors have the freedom to take risks in their writing, create diverse worlds, and tell the stories traditional publishers might overlook. If you’re looking for your next epic adventure, you won’t want to miss these five must-read young adult fantasy series from indie authors who are redefining the genre.
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Court of Emerald Dreams (Eldermyst Series)
By H. Wulf (TikTok)
In the quiet town of Claywood, Adilyn lives a simple life as a foster child, finding comfort in her job at a local café and expressing herself through her mesmerizing paintings. But on her eighteenth birthday, everything changes. A long-buried secret is revealed—Adilyn isn’t just an ordinary girl; she is the lost princess of the legendary Emerald Court.
Thrown into a world of ancient magic and dangerous rivalries, Adilyn’s true destiny begins to unfold. With the weight of her royal lineage on her shoulders, she embarks on a treacherous journey through the enchanted realm of Eldermyst. Determined to claim her rightful place, she must hone her dormant powers, navigate a web of deception, and rise to meet a fate she never imagined.
Eastern Tales Vol. 1
By Christopher Hamilton (Website)
Two best friends, struggling to find a way to pay their college tuition, take what seems like a simple opportunity to make some quick cash. But their search for financial stability quickly spirals into something far more dangerous. Pulled into a tangled web of corruption, political intrigue, and forbidden magic, they find themselves entangled with cutthroat pirates and a mysterious religion that worships a God above all others.
What starts as a desperate attempt to stay afloat turns into an unrelenting series of adventures, each one drawing them deeper into a conflict that threatens to reshape the world. As they navigate treacherous waters—both literal and figurative—they remain unaware of a chilling truth: their actions will tip the balance between salvation and ruin. Whether they become heroes or harbingers of destruction is a fate yet to be decided.
Isle of Daktari: Book One
By B Reyes (TikTok)
Isle of Daktari is the first book in an epic fantasy trilogy, inspired by The Lord of the Rings and C.S. Lewis’s The Screwtape Letters. This immersive young adult fantasy series is filled with elves, shifters, dragons, trolls, and fae, along with a formidable villain who wields a rare and terrifying form of dark magic.
At its heart, this story weaves together love and betrayal, the strength of found family, and the forging of unexpected alliances. When Adira breaks the most sacred decree, she is forced to flee to the Enchanted Forest, seeking sanctuary. But danger looms—will she be captured and sentenced to death, or will she defy fate to protect herself and the life of her unborn child?
One thing is certain: war is coming. Both realms must choose a side. If you love epic battles of light versus darkness, prepare for an unforgettable adventure—but be warned, in the end, you too must make a choice.
The Mandala Chronicles: Realm of Intention
By Jordan Wright (TikTok)
When Nora Parker is kidnapped, her brother Noah is thrust into a world he never knew existed—a secret mission to stop a malevolent Guardian from unleashing chaos upon the world. Up until now, Noah thought his biggest worries were school and everyday life, but everything changes when he learns that his sister has been fighting to protect humanity all along.
With no choice but to step into her shoes, Noah discovers a power within himself that had long been dormant. Along the way, he forms unexpected alliances, encounters ancient magic, and embarks on a dangerous journey across realms. Time is running out, and the fate of the world hangs in the balance. Can Noah rescue his sister and rise to the challenge, or will darkness claim them both? Find out in this gripping young adult fantasy series.
The Witch in the Envelope: Book 1
By Laura Detering (TikTok)
In this young adult urban fantasy series, forbidden love could be Liddy’s downfall… or her salvation. As a child, Liddy Erickson was haunted by dreams of a stunning yet merciless witch. But when she wakes one morning with a deep gash in the exact spot the witch attacked her, she realizes these weren’t just nightmares — they were something far more sinister.
Not long after confiding in her best friend, Will, his entire family vanishes — along with every memory she had of them. Now it’s 1998, and 17-year-old Liddy has one goal: escape the cold Chicago suburbs after graduation. Fun and dating have no place in her carefully planned future—until a mysterious new transfer student arrives at Wheeling High School. With strange scars and glowing eyes, he stirs something deep within her and seems to know her better than she knows herself.
When a stranger with a melodic chime to his step saves Liddy from opening an enchanted envelope, he reveals a shocking truth — she is a lost Watcher and the last hope for his homeland, Cristes. Now, Liddy must decide: trust the stranger and embrace a destiny she never knew existed, or risk condemning an entire nation to ruin.
Get Lost in These Young Adult Fantasy Series
From enchanted forests and mystical kingdoms to high-stakes battles between light and darkness, these young adult fantasy series written by independent authors are filled with adventure, intrigue, and heart. Whether you’re drawn to stories of forbidden magic, fierce rebellions, or unlikely heroes discovering their true power, these indie authors have crafted fantasy worlds that will sweep you away. With themes of friendship, destiny, love, and sacrifice, each tale offers an unforgettable journey. So dive in, lose yourself in the magic, and find your next favorite series to devour!
Are you an independently published author with a young adult fantasy series of your own? I’d love to hear from you! Fill out the submission form to be considered for a future indie author spotlight post.
And if you have any middle grade readers in your circle, be sure to check out my modern fantasy series that includes Naughty Week and Lucky Day — both available now!
