[EndlessWaves]

Originally Posted by Dazrin

The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch would fit this description. Excellent book.

I only have vague memories of the book but checking the plot summary does seem to confirm my remembrance that it is a 'save the world' novel so it will depend on where you draw the line.

Likewise Tim Powers might be worth looking at. Technically the world might be in danger, but usually in a down to earth way.

What about Replay by Ken Grimwood? It's on the edge of what you'd call Fantasy (it's won both Fantasy and Science Fiction awards) but it's definitely not a novel with thousands in danger.