This Week in High Fantasy — Week of May 25, 2026

Biggest Gainers

Murtagh by Christopher Paolini

Published: November 7, 2023

Murtagh has garnered a modest growth of 122 ratings this week, bringing its total to 51,143. Although this performance might seem insignificant, it stands out in a week with fewer high-profile releases and reflects continued interest in Paolini's reengagement with the Eragon saga. In comparison, its growth rate of 0.24% positions it within a competitive space that typically witnesses heftier jumps from newer titles.

Stats: 51,021 → 51,143 (+122)

Inheritance or the Vault of Souls by Christo.. Paolini

Published: January 1, 2011

This older title has seen a total increase of 103 ratings this week, hitting 15,440. It demonstrates a steady performance for a book released 15 years ago, showing an enduring interest in Paolini's works. The 0.67% growth suggests a resurgence, potentially fueled by new readers discovering the Inheritance series through recent adaptations or discussions in fantasy communities.

Stats: 15,337 → 15,440 (+103)

The Primal Hunter by Zogarth

Published: March 8, 2022

This title added 66 ratings this week to a current total of 22,254, indicating a growth of 0.30%. While its growth is modest and lower than some recent book releases, its consistent performance of approximately 22,000 total ratings suggests that reader engagement remains strong, particularly for fans of the action-adventure subgenre within high fantasy.

Stats: 22,188 → 22,254 (+66)

Surprise of the Week

There Be Dragons Here by S.L. Rowland

Published: January 12, 2026

This early-year release has seen unexpected movement with a gain of 12 ratings, bringing its total to 652, translating to a growth rate of 1.9%. While small, this increase is significant for a book only just released, marking an enthusiastic reception. Its cozy fantasy style might just be finding a niche audience within the latest wave of fantasy literature, suggesting a promising start for its overall trajectory in the coming weeks.

Stats: 640 → 652 (+12)

Quick Hits

What Wakes the Bells by Elle Tesch

With a total of 805 ratings after a gain of 8, interest in this debut suggests a solid reception among fantasy readers. Stats: 797 → 805 (+8).

Among Serpents by Marc J. Gregson

This book increased its ratings by 13, achieving a current total of 1,662, reflecting steady interest in this ongoing trilogy. Stats: 1,649 → 1,662 (+13).

By the Moonbeam and the Mist by Mariah Montoya

The growth of 15 ratings this week leads to a total of 2,023, highlighting continuous engagement as series fans await upcoming installments. Stats: 2,008 → 2,023 (+15).

Pick of the Week goes to Murtagh — not due to extraordinary jumps, but its consistent performance with 122 new ratings reflects the author's strong fan base, coupled with the ongoing interest in the Eragon legacy. Despite being a comparatively older release, it maintains traction in an environment where new releases often dominate, suggesting a lasting legacy.