There’s something magical about the idea of stumbling into another world — ideally with snacks and sensible shoes. As a lifelong fantasy reader (and now a writer of my own portal-hopping saga), I often wonder: who would I really want at my side when the wardrobe creaks open or the stone arch glows? Here are five fantasy authors I’d gladly drag through a portal — or follow, willingly.
1. Brandon Sanderson – The Architect of Magic Systems
If you’ve ever wanted your magic with a spreadsheet, a user manual, and a cult-like fandom, Sanderson’s your man. From Mistborn to The Stormlight Archive, his worlds are vast, his rules are watertight, and his characters always seem to be falling through the air with remarkable style. Sanderson doesn’t just build worlds — he engineers them. You’ll never look at gravity, coins, or the word “shard” the same way again. Absolute must-pack for any portal party.
Check out Brandon Sanderson’s website HERE…
2. Samantha Shannon – The Dragon Whisperer of High Fantasy
Samantha Shannon’s The Priory of the Orange Tree swoops in with dragons, matriarchal monarchies, and worldbuilding as rich as a king’s breakfast. Her writing blends the epic with the intimate — sweeping landscapes and towering lore wrapped around characters who actually feel human. She’s the kind of portal companion who would immediately form an alliance with the local wyverns and probably learn an entire ancient language before tea. Bring her along if you want scale, scope, and smarts.
Check out Samantha Shannon’s website HERE…
3. Joe Abercrombie – The King of Grit and Grim
Abercrombie’s fantasy is so sharp it could slice through chainmail — and probably does. Best known for The First Law trilogy and his “grimdark with a grin” approach, his characters are gloriously flawed, morally murky, and often in need of a bath. But wow, can he write a fight scene. He’s the portal traveller you want when diplomacy fails and everything smells like smoke. Brutal, brilliant, and always up for a spot of bloody mayhem.
Check out Joe Abercrombie’s website HERE…
4. Neil Gaiman – The Portal Fantasy Patron Saint
If this were a fantasy pub quiz, Gaiman would be the answer to half the questions. Neverwhere, Coraline, Stardust, The Ocean at the End of the Lane — he practically invented the modern idea of slipping sideways into strange worlds. His stories are lyrical, unsettling, and full of wonder. He’s the author who’d step into a portal wearing a velvet coat and quoting folklore, only to reveal that he is the folklore. An obvious choice, but an essential one.
Check out Neil Gaiman’s website HERE…
5) D.K. Hassall – The Wildcard in the Wardrobe
Okay, I know what you’re thinking: “Who let this fella on the list?” But hear me out. I write The Portal Garden Chronicles, a fantasy series packed with strange lands, broken gods, and reluctant heroes. My world’s got fragments of ancient power, talking animals, and more Easter eggs than a springtime dragon hoard. I may not have Sanderson’s system or Gaiman’s poetry (yet), but I bring snacks, sarcasm, and a healthy respect for the weird. Every portal needs a wildcard — I volunteer.
Check out my website HERE…
Conclusion – There’s Room in This Portal for All of Us
Whether you’re in it for the dragons, the dirt, or the darkly poetic detours, fantasy has a seat at the table — or the portal — for everyone. These four authors have shaped how I see the genre, and inspired the stories I now tell myself. If you’re looking for your next escape, crack open one of their books… and maybe keep an eye out for The Portal Garden Chronicles while you’re at it.