My Top Ten CSFF Novels (Sort of)

I’ve provided my list of the novels with the best writing. I’ve provided a list of some with the best content. But which novels top my list as my all-time favorites? Which ones provide the best balance between the craft and content, in my opinion? Here’s the closest list I can provide:

#10-6: Fun or solid reads and good content, but slightly flawed for me in some way:

Tie for 10th: DragonKeeper Chronicles by Donita K. Paul and The Shadowside Trilogy by Robert Elmer

9. Dragons in Our Midst/Oracles of Fire by Bryan Davis

8. Wilderking Trilogy by Jonathan Rogers

7. Echoes from the Edge by Bryan Davis

6. Lost Mission by Athol Dickson

The top five slots are characterized by content that’s deep and thought-provoking but doesn’t take over a well-written story:

5. The Sword of Lyric by Sharon Hinck

Tie for 4th: Faery Rebels by R.J. Anderson and Blood of Kings by Jill Williamson

3. The Gifted by Lisa T. Bergren

2. The Lamb Among the Stars by Chris Walley

And my top slot, what I consider the best balance of craft and content, goes without question to:

1. The Firebird Trilogy by Kathy Tyers

One of my biggest goals as a writer is write novels as well-balanced as hers.