Well, 'Spice and Wolf' is a great obscure light novel. It combines elements of economics and fantasy in a really interesting way. The relationship between the merchant and the wolf - deity is well - developed. Then there's 'Baccano!'. It has a non - linear narrative that can be a bit hard to follow at first but is ultimately very rewarding. It's set in a world full of alchemists and immortals. And 'Durarara!!' is also a good pick. It shows the interconnectedness of different characters in a big city and has some really unique character designs and storylines.
One good option could be 'Boogiepop Phantom'. It has a complex and engaging storyline that delves into the supernatural and the human psyche. Another is 'The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya'. While it has gained some popularity over the years, it still has an element of obscurity in its unique take on the high - school setting with a god - like character. Also, 'Kino's Journey' offers thought - provoking tales as the main character travels through different lands and experiences various cultures and situations.
I would recommend 'All You Need Is Kill'. It has an intense and action - packed plot where the main character is stuck in a time loop during a war against aliens. It's not as well - known as some mainstream light novels but is really engaging. Another one is 'Zaregoto Series'. It has a very intellectual and somewhat convoluted story that is centered around a boy who is considered a 'humanoid typhoon'. And 'Katanagatari' is also an interesting choice. It focuses on the collection of twelve special swords and the relationship between the main characters during their journey.
A lesser - known but great obscure novel is 'The Shadow of the Wind' by Carlos Ruiz Zafón. It's set in post - War Barcelona and follows a young boy who discovers a book in a forgotten library. The story weaves together mystery, love, and the power of books, taking the reader on a journey through the city's secrets.
One example is 'The Master and Margarita' by Mikhail Bulgakov. It combines elements of satire, fantasy, and the exploration of good and evil. Another is 'The House of the Seven Gables' by Nathaniel Hawthorne, which delves into themes of family curse and the past haunting the present.
One great obscure mystery novel is 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco. It's set in a medieval monastery and is full of complex puzzles and philosophical musings. Another is 'The Big Sleep' by Raymond Chandler. It features a hard - boiled detective Marlowe and has a convoluted plot filled with mystery and danger. And 'Gaudy Night' by Dorothy L. Sayers is also an excellent choice. It combines an academic setting with a mystery that keeps you guessing until the end.
One good one to start with could be 'Stalker: Shadow of Chernobyl'. It gives a great introduction to the world of Stalkers in the light novel format, with interesting characters and a well - built post - apocalyptic setting.
Another good option is 'Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World'. It follows the story of Subaru, who is sent to a fantasy world and has the unique ability to return by death. The plot is full of twists and turns, and it explores themes like perseverance and the value of life in a very interesting way.
Another option is 'Overlord'. It tells the story of a powerful being trapped in a game world. It's full of unique characters, political intrigue, and epic battles. It's a really interesting read for those who like light novels.
I would also recommend 'Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World'. This light novel is quite popular. It has a complex story with a lot of mystery. The main character has the ability to return by death, which adds an interesting twist to the plot and keeps you on the edge of your seat as you follow his journey in the new world.
One great 1 - volume light novel is 'Kino's Journey'. It takes readers on a thought - provoking adventure as Kino travels through different lands, each with its own unique culture and set of problems. The writing is concise yet manages to create a vivid and immersive world.
Another option is 'Re:Zero - Starting Life in Another World'. It's a unique SBT light novel as it features a protagonist who has to relive his days in a different world over and over again, facing new challenges each time. The story is full of mystery and complex relationships among the characters.
Good obscure fantasy novels often have unique world - building. For example, they might create a world with its own set of rules for magic, like in 'The Golem and the Jinni' where the magic of the golem and the jinni are based on different cultural and mythological backgrounds. Another characteristic is complex characters. In 'The Name of the Wind', Kvothe is a multi - faceted character with a rich backstory. They also tend to have original storylines that deviate from common fantasy tropes, such as 'Uprooted' which has a different take on the relationship between the hero and the source of magic.