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10 Best Fantasy Books for Epic Adventures (2026)

Discover the greatest fantasy novels of all time, from sprawling epic series to standalone masterpieces. Whether you love dragons, magic systems, or world-building, these books will transport you to incredible realms.

Fantasy literature offers an escape into worlds where magic is real, heroes rise from unlikely beginnings, and the boundaries of imagination are the only limits. The genre has evolved tremendously from its Tolkien-inspired roots into a rich landscape encompassing everything from cozy adventures to brutal grimdark tales. These ten novels represent the pinnacle of modern fantasy, each offering a unique take on what the genre can achieve—from intricate magic systems and labyrinthine political plots to intimate character studies and mind-bending mysteries.

Books & Affiliate Links

#TitleBest ForPriceISBN/ASINAmazon Link
1The Name of the Wind by Patrick RothfussBeautiful prose lovers$180756404746Buy on Amazon
2The Way of Kings by Brandon SandersonEpic world-building fans$200765365278Buy on Amazon
3A Game of Thrones by George R.R. MartinPolitical intrigue readers$180553593714Buy on Amazon
4The Hobbit by J.R.R. TolkienClassic fantasy beginners$16054792822XBuy on Amazon
5Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon SandersonMagic system enthusiasts$170765350386Buy on Amazon
6The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott LynchHeist fantasy fans$17055358894XBuy on Amazon
7The Fifth Season by N.K. JemisinAward-winning fantasy$170316229296Buy on Amazon
8Assassin's Apprentice by Robin HobbCharacter-driven stories$170553573395Buy on Amazon
9The Blade Itself by Joe AbercrombieGrimdark enthusiasts$170316387312Buy on Amazon
10Piranesi by Susanna ClarkeUnique atmospheric reads$161635575644Buy on Amazon

Book Details

1. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

Patrick Rothfuss crafts a spellbinding story of Kvothe, a legendary figure recounting his own rise from orphaned street urchin to the most notorious wizard of his age. The prose is achingly beautiful, transforming a traditional fantasy narrative into something that reads more like lyrical literature. Essential for readers who value elegant writing as much as compelling storytelling.

2. The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson

Brandon Sanderson launches his magnum opus with this thousand-page epic set on Roshar, a storm-ravaged world with a meticulously constructed ecology, history, and magic system. The book weaves together multiple storylines that gradually converge toward a spectacular climax. Perfect for readers who want to immerse themselves completely in a richly imagined secondary world.

3. A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin

George R.R. Martin redefined epic fantasy with this tale of warring noble houses, where political machinations prove deadlier than swords and no character is safe from a sudden end. The intricate plotting and morally complex characters feel more historical fiction than traditional fantasy. A must-read for those who crave realistic consequences and unpredictable narratives.

4. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

J.R.R. Tolkien's beloved adventure follows the reluctant Bilbo Baggins as he joins a company of dwarves on a quest to reclaim their treasure from a dragon. This gentler prelude to The Lord of the Rings captures the wonder and whimsy of classic fairy tales while establishing Middle-earth's legendary foundations. The ideal starting point for readers new to fantasy or seeking a cozy, timeless adventure.

5. Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson

Brandon Sanderson delivers a heist story set in a dark world of ash and oppression, where an unlikely crew attempts to overthrow an immortal god-emperor. The innovative Allomancy magic system, based on ingesting and "burning" metals, is explained with satisfying logical consistency. Perfect for readers who love their magic with clearly defined rules and clever tactical applications.

6. The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch

Scott Lynch introduces Locke Lamora, a brilliant con artist leading a crew of gentleman thieves in a fantasy Venice where elaborate schemes target the nobility. The banter crackles with wit, the cons are ingeniously constructed, and the stakes escalate dramatically. Ideal for readers who enjoy clever protagonists, found-family dynamics, and stories that blend humor with genuine danger.

7. The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin

N.K. Jemisin's Hugo Award-winning novel begins a trilogy that would sweep the award three years running—an unprecedented achievement. Set on a catastrophe-prone planet where people with seismic powers are feared and enslaved, the story unfolds through innovative second-person narration. Essential reading for fans of thought-provoking fantasy that tackles themes of oppression, survival, and power.

8. Assassin's Apprentice by Robin Hobb

Robin Hobb introduces FitzChivalry Farseer, a royal bastard trained as an assassin, in this deeply intimate coming-of-age story that prioritizes emotional depth over action set pieces. The first-person narration creates an unusually close bond between reader and protagonist as he navigates court politics and his own isolation. Best for readers who value character development and are willing to experience both the highs and devastating lows alongside the protagonist.

9. The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie

Joe Abercrombie kicks off the First Law trilogy with a cast of deeply flawed characters navigating a world where heroism is rare and violence has real consequences. His darkly humorous tone and subversion of fantasy tropes feel refreshingly cynical without becoming nihilistic. Perfect for readers tired of chosen ones and noble quests who want their fantasy grittier and morally ambiguous.

10. Piranesi by Susanna Clarke

Susanna Clarke returns after a sixteen-year hiatus with this haunting novella set in an impossible house of infinite halls, where the protagonist catalogs statues and tides while gradually uncovering the mystery of his existence. The dreamlike atmosphere and gentle narrator create an experience unlike anything else in fantasy. A beautiful choice for readers seeking something strange, quiet, and utterly unforgettable.

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