The Wood Beyond the World by William Morris

A young merchant sets out on a sea journey and is swept into a magical realm filled with strange landscapes, mysterious ladies, and hidden enchantments. There, he becomes entangled in a tale of prophecy, love, and transformation. The story unfolds like a medieval romance with strong mythic and dreamlike elements. The plot is rich in symbolism and heroic adventure. It’s one of the earliest examples of modern fantasy, deeply influential in the genre’s development.