Can you recommend best dark fantasy stories for beginners?

For beginners, 'The Chronicles of Narnia' by C.S. Lewis has some dark elements within its otherwise more accessible fantasy world. It's a great starting point. Also, 'The Hobbit' by J.R.R. Tolkien has some darker moments and introduces the reader to a richly imagined world. And 'The Dark Is Rising' sequence by Susan Cooper is a good choice. It has a strong sense of mystery and the battle between light and dark.

For beginners, 'The Monkey's Paw' by W.W. Jacobs is a great start. It's a short and simple story that packs a punch. It shows how a simple wish - granting device can lead to tragic consequences in a very dark and unexpected way.

For beginners, 'The Hobbit' by J.R.R. Tolkien could be a great start. It has elements of dark fantasy like the encounter with the dragon Smaug, but it's also quite accessible with its simple language and engaging adventure plot. It sets the foundation for Tolkien's larger Middle - earth universe which is explored more in 'The Lord of the Rings' which also has dark elements.

I'd recommend 'The Chronicles of Narnia'. While it's more of a fantasy series for all ages, there are dark parts like the White Witch's rule. It's easy to understand and get into. Also, 'The Lightning Thief' is a start. It has some dark fantasy elements as it delves into Greek mythology in a modern world, and it's a page - turner for newbies. And 'Howl's Moving Castle' by Diana Wynne Jones has a charming yet dark - ish story that beginners would like.

A great beginner - friendly horror dark fantasy novel is 'American Gods'. Neil Gaiman writes in a way that is easy to follow while still creating a rich and complex world. The blend of horror, fantasy, and mythology is fascinating. 'We Have Always Lived in the Castle' is also suitable. It has a relatively short length and a simple plot on the surface, but there are deeper layers of horror and dark fantasy to discover. And 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' offers a more literary approach to the genre, which can be a good introduction for those who like a bit more sophistication in their horror.

Sure. 'Poison Study' by Maria V. Snyder is a good start. It has a dark and gritty world, with Yelena being forced to be a food taster in a dangerous court. The romance between her and Valek develops gradually in this dangerous setting. It's easy to get into and has a great balance of fantasy and romance elements.

I would recommend 'Neverwhere' for beginners. Neil Gaiman has a way of writing that draws you in, and this story about the hidden London is full of interesting characters and strange adventures. Also, 'Moon Called' is a good choice. The world - building is not overly complicated, and the main character, Mercy Thompson, is very likable. You can easily follow her story as she navigates the world of shapeshifters and magic.

For beginners, 'The Chronicles of Narnia' is a good start. The story of the White Witch usurping the throne is easy to understand and very engaging. It has elements of magic, adventure, and the fight against the usurper. Another option is 'The Hobbit'. Although not as deeply focused on usurpation as some others, Smaug's control over the Lonely Mountain can be seen as a form of usurpation, and it's a great introduction to fantasy worlds. Then there's 'Alice in Wonderland' which has a sense of the Queen of Hearts usurping a kind of normal order in Wonderland through her tyrannical rule.

I would recommend 'The Hobbit' for beginners. It has a relatively straightforward plot compared to some other complex fantasy works. The characters are lovable and the adventure is exciting. Also, 'Howl's Moving Castle' by Diana Wynne Jones. It has a charming story and the idea of a moving castle is really cool. It's not too difficult to follow either.

For beginners, 'Harry Potter' is a great start. It's easy to understand and has a very engaging story. The characters are relatable and the magic world is introduced in a very accessible way. Another good one is 'The Hobbit' by J.R.R. Tolkien. It's shorter than 'The Lord of the Rings' but still has the charm of Tolkien's Middle - earth with its dwarves, hobbits, and dragons.