Good grief, this was tough! My list of awesome fantasy books is enormous, so whittling it down to just 25 was a gargantuan task that I agonized over. I’ve read some truly amazing fantasy books, many of which provided me with the escape I so desperately needed. Some of the books I’ve included come from read-worthy fantasy series or trilogies, but best fantasy series is a whole separate article, so I’ve included just one or two standout books from those multi-book epics.
Fantasy novels are like the intricate maps that often grace their inner covers—vast, varied, and full of endless possibilities. From classic tales of dragons and magic to dystopian stories with sharp social commentary, the genre offers something for everyone.
Our love for fantasy often begins in childhood. When revisited later, these stories reveal deeper lessons that stay with us as we grow. Each magical series often serves as a coming-of-age story that we cherish and pass down through generations.
Here are some of my favorites, ranked in no particular order, to help you find your next great escapist adventure.
The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
This novel follows the journey of Kvothe, a legendary figure known for his incredible skills and adventures. From his early years as an orphan to his time at a prestigious magic school, Kvothe’s story is filled with mystery, magic, and a quest for knowledge. It’s dark and gritty, and the central character is real and flawed, but there’s humor and a captivating story that draws you in and makes you want to just … keep … reading. I devoured this book in just a couple of days, because it hooked me and had me reading to the wee hours. I just wish he’d hurry up and finish the darn series!
The Colour of Magic by Terry Pratchett
The first book in the Discworld series introduces readers to a flat world carried on the backs of four elephants, which stand on a giant turtle. Follow the bumbling wizard Ricewind as he guides a visitor through this fantastical land. Ohhhh it was tough to choose just one Terry Pratchett book. So I thought this introduction to Discworld was my best option. It’s undeniably brilliant and, if you’re a Pratchett virgin, this is a great place to start.
The Mage Wars Trilogy by Mercedes Lackey and Larry Dixon
This trilogy explores the rise and fall of the powerful Mage Wars in the land of Velgarth. Following the lives of mages who shape the world’s destiny, Lackey’s series is a captivating blend of magic, politics, and personal struggle. I love all of the Valdemar chronicles. It was impossibly difficult to choose between them.
And this is, technically, a trilogy. But thankfully, it was also released as an omnibus, so I’m cheating a bit by saying that as the Mage Wars was released as a single, bound omnibus, I can, technically get away with calling it “a” book and including it here. If I had to choose one of the three, it’d probably be the first – The Black Gryphon, which introduces us to the fabulous Skandranon Rashkae, who is one of my all-time favorite characters.
The Fellowship of the Ring by J. R. R. Tolkien
The first book in The Lord of the Rings series, The Fellowship of the Ring is a cornerstone of the fantasy genre. Frodo Baggins must leave his peaceful life to destroy a powerful ring and prevent the Dark Lord Sauron from conquering Middle Earth.
An obvious inclusion on this list? Yes. But also undeniably deserving of a spot, The Fellowship of the Ring was my introduction to more grown-up fantasy. I think I read this when I was about 13 or 14, and I was hooked. I wanted to travel with Frodo and meet the elves, and I wanted to learn everything Gandalf could teach me.
The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan
The first book in The Wheel of Time series introduces readers to a world on the brink of war. Young Rand al’Thor’s life changes forever when he learns he might be the prophesied Dragon Reborn. This epic tale of destiny and adventure sets the stage for one of the most beloved fantasy series of all time.
The Wheel of Time was one of the first epic fantasy series I ever read, more years ago than I care to remember. Yes, I know it’s another one of those books that got put on the TV, but I actually hated the TV series. The books are wonderful, and I even re-read them not too long ago. It’s true; the series probably could have been a few books shorter, as a few in the middle were very slow and hard-going, but this first book was brilliant. It captured me right from the prologue. I desperately wanted to know more about The Lord of the Morning.
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
Starting with A Wrinkle in Time, this series follows siblings Meg and Charles Murray as they travel through space and time to rescue their father and combat a dark force threatening the universe.
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
Madeline Miller’s novel retells the story of the Trojan War through the eyes of Patroclus, focusing on his relationship with Achilles. This emotional and beautifully written tale brings new depth to a classic myth.
Mage Winds by Mercedes Lackey
Yes, I know, it’s another trilogy in the Valdemar chronicles, but again, it was published as an omnibus, so I’m being sneaky and calling this “one book”. Set in the same world as The Mage Wars, this trilogy follows a new generation of heroes, although you’ll recognize Elspeth as the Royal Brat from earlier parts of the Valdemar Chronicles.
As they confront dark forces threatening their land, they must harness their magical abilities and navigate the complexities of their world. Lackey’s storytelling weaves together adventure, romance, and the timeless battle between good and evil. Mage Winds is compelling and well-paced, and the characters and rich and complex. Plus, there’s enough unexpected twists to keep things interesting and keep you guessing.
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
Set in the same universe as the Shadow and Bone trilogy, Six of Crows follows criminal mastermind Kaz Brekker and his team of outcasts as they undertake a dangerous heist that could make them rich beyond their dreams.
The Once and Future King by T.H. White
T.H. White’s brilliant retelling of the Arthurian legend remains a timeless classic. This single volume includes all five parts of the story, as White originally intended. The narrative masterfully balances exquisite comedy with the tragic fate of Arthur,
A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness
This fantasy romance features a centuries-old vampire and a reluctant witch who uncover a mysterious manuscript in Oxford’s Bodleian library. As they delve into its secrets, their lives are changed forever. My historian’s heart adored this series. It’s one of those that have made it onto my repeated-reading list for when I need something comforting and familiar.
I was a little unsure at first, having seen a couple of episodes of the show before I got around to picking up the book. The show had put me off a little. But I’m so glad I read it—the whole series is wonderful, but this is, for me, the standout novel.
Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
In 1946, Claire Randall is transported back to 1743 Scotland, where she must navigate a new life filled with adventure, romance, and danger. This time-traveling epic is the first in a beloved series.
Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell
Rundell’s new novel introduces readers to the magical islands of Archipelago, where mythological creatures live hidden from the world. As the barrier protecting them begins to fade, young Christopher and Mal must solve the mystery and save both worlds.
Yes, this is a very recent book, and it’s for children, but it’s another of those awesome gateway books that encourage children to love to read for the pleasure of it. Like the Harry Potter franchise, but with fewer issues and better writing, Impossible Creatures gets youngsters excited about reading and imagining, and should hopefully help lead them to a lifetime full of those wondrous made-up worlds found in fantasy novels.
Daggerspell by Katherine Kerr
Daggerspell is the first installment of the Deverry Cycle, which is truly an epic. The characterization and world-building are mesmerizing, and the story is gripping. There are many fantastic books in this amazing series, but Daggerspell, from 1986, is outstanding. It’s witty, dark, gritty, and spellbinding. It’s definitely a mature fantasy, but one that every fantasy purist should read at least once.
Follow the Wildfolk, Jill, Rhodry, Cullyn, and Nevyn through hundreds of years and many reincarnations as they battle to right the wrongs of the past and fight the darkness that threatens their land.
A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin
In “A Wizard of Earthsea,” young Ged, known as Sparrowhawk, seeks power and knowledge, unleashing a dark shadow upon the world. His journey is one of growth and self-discovery, mastering powerful magic, taming a dragon, and facing death itself. Ged’s trials teach him the true meaning of power and balance, ultimately making him the greatest sorcerer in Earthsea.
This is an awesome coming-of-age epic with great world-building, an easy-to-follow plot, and relatable characters that draw you in. It’s a perfect gateway book for younger readers.
His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman
Yes, I know this is three books, but again, it was released as one, so I’m sneaking it in here.
Follow young Lyra as she uncovers a dark conspiracy in a world where science, theology, and magic intertwine. This trilogy is a modern classic that takes readers on an unforgettable journey across multiple worlds.
Dragonflight by Anne McCaffrey
In “Dragonflight,” Lessa, a kitchen girl disguised to hide her noble heritage, discovers her destiny when she bonds with a Queen dragon. As Thread, a deadly substance, threatens her world, Lessa and her dragon must revive the ancient order of Dragonriders to protect Pern. With dragons dwindling and the Queen dragon fading, Lessa’s bravery and bond with her dragon become crucial in the fight for survival. Her journey transforms her from a servant into a savior of her world.
Good Omens by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman
When an angel and a demon team up to stop the apocalypse, chaos and hilarity ensue. Pratchett and Gaiman’s collaboration is a witty and irreverent take on the end of the world, filled with memorable characters and sharp humor.
Black Leopard, Red Wolf by Marlon James
Drawing on African history and mythology, this novel follows a mercenary on a quest to find a missing child. With a band of dangerous companions, he navigates a world filled with vampires, ghouls, and werewolves.
Magician by Raymond E. Feist.
Making up books one and two of the Riftwar Saga, Magician is a fantasy staple. Although I actually wasn’t a fan on my first read, I gave it another shot years later and thoroughly enjoyed it.
In “Magician,” an orphan named Pug, apprenticed to a master magician at Crydee, discovers his extraordinary destiny. As alien invaders threaten the Kingdom of the Isles, Pug and his friend Tomas are drawn into a vast conflict. Tomas gains immense power from an ancient civilization, while Pug’s journey leads him through a rift in space and time to master a new and powerful magic. Together, their paths shape the fate of two worlds.
The Wrath and the Dawn by Renee Ahdieh
This modern retelling of The Arabian Nights follows Shahrzad, who volunteers to marry the Caliph of Khorasan to exact revenge for her friend’s death. As she weaves stories to survive, she uncovers deeper truths about herself and the Caliph.
Stardust by Neil Gaiman
In this enchanting tale, Tristan Thorn ventures into the Faerie realm to retrieve a fallen star for his beloved. Gaiman’s story is a magical blend of adventure, romance, and whimsy that feels like an age-old fairy tale.
Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke
This epic novel follows two 19th-century magicians whose rivalry leads to dangerous consequences. Clarke’s richly detailed world and complex characters make this a must-read for fans of historical fantasy.
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J. K. Rowling
I struggled with this one. We all know there are better fantasies than the Harry Potter series. There are gaping plot holes, nonsensical happenings, and … yeah. It’s not the best. So why am I putting it here? Because it got children interested in reading again! It was and remains a brilliant gateway to the fantasy genre, reading for pleasure, and using one’s imagination.
Plus, regardless of the issues, this particular book teaches younger readers some valuable lessons and has incredibly relatable characters for many children. So yes, I added it to my best fantasies ever list.
Follow young Harry as he discovers he is a wizard and begins his magical education at Hogwarts, setting off on adventures that captivate readers of all ages.
One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez
Follow seven generations of the Buendía family in this masterpiece of magical realism. The isolated town of Macondo serves as a microcosm of Colombia, experiencing wars, disasters, and miracles.
Final Thoughts
I know some people will let me know that I’ve missed off their favorite epic fantasies. There’s no Brooks, Goodkind, Gemmel, or Erikson. Not because I don’t think they’re amazing – they truly are. But I wanted to do more than just repeat a list of classic fantasies and coming-of-age epics. And I had to draw the line somewhere. I could’ve written 100 greatest fantasy novels and still have struggled to encompass all the books that deserve a mention. There are simply too many. So I’ve tried to bring more balance to this list, with a wider choice of fantasy books for a broader audience, not just purists and high fantasy aficionados.
Some folks will probably be annoyed that I didn’t put more focus on books that got made into shows or movies, too. You won’t, for example, find any entries from A Song of Ice and Fire because, although Game of Thrones was on the TV so it’s insanely popular, the books are okay, but not great, in my opinion. Do Martin’s books belong on a list of awesome epic fantasies? Maybe. But not this list. I completely ignored any thoughts about any on-screen adaptations, as I was purely writing about the books.
The likes of David Eddings and Marion Zimmer Bradley are also absent. While I have read (and enjoyed) works by both of these authors before I knew better, in light of their crimes, I cannot, in good conscience, add them to my list of recommendations. Yes, typically, I like to separate the private lives of creators from the enjoyment of their works, but not in this case.
Katy Willis is a writer, master herbalist, master gardener, and certified canine nutritionist who has been writing since 2002. She’s finds joy in learning new and interesting things, and finds history, science, and nature endlessly fascinating.
