Top 10 Best Fantasy Books You Must Read

📚 Top 10 Best Fantasy Books You Must Read (Essential Picks for Every Reader)

Whether you’re stepping into the genre for the first time or a lifelong fan searching for your next epic escape, these fantasy novels represent the heart of what makes the genre magical: unforgettable worlds, rich characters, and timeless themes of power, destiny, and transformation.

1. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

“I have stolen princesses back from sleeping barrow kings…”
Told in lush, lyrical prose, this is the tale of Kvothe — magician, musician, and myth in the making. Rothfuss weaves a story-within-a-story that’s both poetic and razor-sharp, perfect for fans of deep lore and introspective heroes.

2. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien

The cornerstone of modern fantasy. With its vast mythology, epic battles, and enduring friendships, Tolkien’s trilogy redefined the genre. Middle-earth feels as real as any place on Earth — and maybe even more magical.

3. A Song of Ice and Fire (series) by George R.R. Martin

Power, betrayal, and dragons. This grim and gritty series changed the rules of fantasy storytelling. Characters live, breathe — and die — in Martin’s intricate, brutal world of Westeros. Start with A Game of Thrones and prepare for obsession.

4. The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon

A standalone epic with dragons, queens, assassins, and ancient magic. This feminist reimagining of the classic “dragon-slayer” tale has sweeping scope and modern relevance, perfect for readers seeking a fresh take on epic fantasy.

5. Mistborn (series) by Brandon Sanderson

What if the Dark Lord won? Sanderson’s world of ash-covered cities and metal-based magic is addictive, twisty, and thrilling. Start with The Final Empire — and expect to binge the trilogy.

6. The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch

Think Ocean’s Eleven meets fantasy Venice. This witty, fast-paced tale follows master thief Locke and his band of con artists as they navigate a dangerous world of nobles, gangs, and gods. Stylish and smart.

7. The Once and Future Witches by Alix E. Harrow

In a world where witches were nearly erased from history, three rebellious sisters bring back forgotten magic. This beautifully written novel blends historical fiction, feminist themes, and witchcraft into something wholly unique.

8. The Earthsea Cycle by Ursula K. Le Guin

Beginning with A Wizard of Earthsea, this series explores magic, mortality, and balance. Le Guin’s prose is elegant and wise, and her influence on the genre is immeasurable. A must-read for lovers of philosophical, quiet fantasy.

9. The Broken Earth Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin

Start with The Fifth Season and enter a world ravaged by apocalypses and powered by fierce, earth-moving magic. Jemisin made history by winning the Hugo Award three years in a row — and every bit of that acclaim is deserved.

10. Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke

Set in an alternate 19th-century England where magic is scholarly and dangerous, this massive novel is equal parts Jane Austen and arcane mystery. A masterclass in worldbuilding and wit.

✨ Final Thoughts

These books aren’t just fantasy — they’re literature that challenges, enchants, and stays with you. Whether you want dragons, thieves, forgotten gods, or revolutions led by witches, there’s something on this list to capture your imagination.