New agents looking for fantasy novels: What are some underrated ones?

One underrated gem is 'Snow Crash' by Neal Stephenson. It has a really unique take on a future where the virtual world and the real world are intertwined in interesting ways. Another is 'Hyperion' by Dan Simmons. It weaves together multiple storylines in a complex and engaging science - fictional universe.

You can start with the classics like 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien. It's a cornerstone of the fantasy genre with its richly detailed world of Middle - earth, complex characters, and epic battles between good and evil.

One underrated fantasy novel is 'The Golem and the Jinni' by Helene Wecker. It combines elements of Middle Eastern and Jewish mythology in a unique way. The story follows the lives of a golem and a jinni in 19th - century New York City. Another is 'Uprooted' by Naomi Novik. It has a beautiful, fairytale - like quality with a strong female lead and an interesting magic system. And 'The Name of the Wind' by Patrick Rothfuss is also underrated. It tells the story of Kvothe, a gifted young man with a mysterious past and great magical abilities.

One great underrated fantasy novel is 'The Golem and the Jinni' by Helene Wecker. It weaves together the stories of a golem and a jinni in turn - of - the - century New York. Another is 'Uprooted' by Naomi Novik. It has a unique take on magic and a captivating heroine. And 'Mistborn' by Brandon Sanderson is also underrated. It features an intricate magic system and a complex plot.

They should look for strong and unique voices. In YA novels, the narrator's voice is crucial as it needs to resonate with the target audience. Also, engaging plots are a must. A plot that can keep a teen reader hooked from start to finish is key.

They should pay attention to the uniqueness of the plot. A novel with a fresh and original plot stands out. For example, if it's a mystery novel, an unexpected twist is very appealing. Also, the writing style matters. Clear, engaging writing can draw them in.

They can start by checking out well - known publishers' websites. For example, Penguin Random House often has a section dedicated to young adult novels. Another good place to start is Goodreads. It has a large community of readers who review and recommend YA novels, which can give new agents an idea of popular and high - quality works in the genre.

Well, 'Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell' by Susanna Clarke is an underrated fantasy novel. It's set in an alternate version of England and is full of magic and mystery. 'The Night Circus' by Erin Morgenstern is often overlooked but it has a dreamy and enchanting atmosphere with a unique love story at its core. Also, 'The Black Prism' by Brent Weeks has a great magic system and a complex political plot that doesn't get as much attention as it should.

One underrated Stephen King novel is 'The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon'. It's a story about a young girl who gets lost in the woods and imagines that baseball player Tom Gordon is with her to keep her company. It has a unique blend of psychological horror and a sense of adventure. The way King describes the girl's isolation and her struggle to survive in the woods is really engaging.

One way is to check industry directories like Writer's Market which list contact information of many literary agents. Another option is to attend writing conferences or workshops where agents often participate. You can also look at the acknowledgments section in recently published mystery novels, as authors sometimes thank their agents there, which can give you a lead.