20 best books on fantasy – 2023 reading list & recommendations

If you’re someone who finds solace in the mystical realms of magic, mythical creatures, and extraordinary adventures, then you’re in for a treat. We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about fantasy that will transport you to enchanting worlds beyond imagination. From epic sagas to enchanting fairy tales, these books on fantasy will ignite your imagination, captivate your senses, and leave you yearning for more. So, prepare to embark on extraordinary journeys as we unravel the realms of fantasy books.


The Name of the Wind

by Patrick Rothfuss

The Name of the Wind, written by Patrick Rothfuss, is an enthralling book on fantasy that will transport you to a world of magic and adventure. This spellbinding tale follows the life of Kvothe, a legendary figure known as the Kingkiller.

Set in a realm filled with mythical creatures, ancient prophecies, and arcane arts, this fantasy book is a mesmerizing journey through a land where dreams and reality intertwine. As you turn the pages, you will be captivated by Kvothe’s extraordinary abilities, his relentless pursuit of knowledge, and his quest for vengeance.

Rothfuss’s incredible storytelling will make you feel as if you are a part of this book about fantasy, as you immerse yourself in the richly detailed world he has created. From the bustling city of Tarbean to the prestigious University, every page is filled with vivid descriptions and intricate plot twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

With its lyrical prose and complex characters, The Name of the Wind stands out as a true masterpiece in the world of fantasy books. Prepare to be transported to a realm of magic, where legends are born and destinies are forged. Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure? Open the pages and let the story unfold.

The Way of Kings

by Brandon Sanderson

The Way of Kings, a mesmerizing book about the realm of wonder and imagination, is a true masterpiece in the realm of fantasy literature. Crafted by the genius mind of Brandon Sanderson, this epic tale takes readers on a thrilling journey through a world where the boundaries of reality are stretched to their limits.

A Game of Thrones

by George R.R. Martin

A Game of Thrones is a captivating book on fantasy that will transport you to a world that is both enchanting and dangerous. Set in the fictional realm of Westeros, this epic tale written by George R.R. Martin will immerse you in a world of political intrigue, treacherous alliances, and epic battles.

The Hobbit

by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Hobbit is a captivating journey into the realm of fantasy, written by the legendary author J.R.R. Tolkien. This mesmerizing tale takes readers on an extraordinary adventure through a world filled with wonder, magic, and mythical creatures.

The Magicians

by Lev Grossman

The Magicians, written by Lev Grossman, is a spellbinding journey into a world of enchantment and wonder. This extraordinary book on fantasy takes readers on an exhilarating adventure, delving into the realms of magic, mystery, and self-discovery.

American Gods

by Neil Gaiman

American Gods by Neil Gaiman is a captivating book on fantasy that takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through a world where ancient gods clash with modern-day deities. In this spellbinding tale, Gaiman introduces us to Shadow Moon, a recently released convict who finds himself caught in the midst of a war between the old gods of myth and the new gods of technology and media.

The Lies of Locke Lamora

by Scott Lynch

The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch is an enchanting book on fantasy that transports readers into a world brimming with magic, intrigue, and deception. Set in the city of Camorr, a labyrinth of twisting canals and towering spires, this fantasy book weaves a tale of cunning thieves, daring heists, and the relentless pursuit of power.

Within this book about fantasy, readers are introduced to Locke Lamora, a charismatic and audacious con artist with a penchant for elaborate schemes. Alongside his band of fellow thieves known as the Gentleman Bastards, Locke navigates the treacherous waters of Camorr’s criminal underworld, always staying one step ahead of danger.

As the story unfolds, readers are plunged into a world where nobles play deadly games, ancient gods and demons lurk in the shadows, and alliances can crumble as easily as a house of cards. Scott Lynch’s masterful storytelling effortlessly blends elements of adventure, suspense, and dark humor, creating a fantasy book that is both captivating and immersive.

With its richly detailed world-building, complex characters, and twist-filled plot, The Lies of Locke Lamora is a must-read for fans of fantasy and anyone who craves a thrilling and immersive reading experience. So, embark on this epic journey through the streets of Camorr and prepare to be enthralled by the lies, the secrets, and the extraordinary adventures that await.

The Blade Itself

by Joe Abercrombie

Welcome to the world of epic imagination and mind-bending adventures in the thrilling realm of magic and mysticism! Dive into the captivating pages of The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie, a mesmerizing journey through a fantastical universe filled with sorcery, treachery, and heroism.

The Final Empire

by Brandon Sanderson

The Final Empire is an absolute gem for all those who crave a riveting book on fantasy. This extraordinary tale, penned by the masterful Brandon Sanderson, takes readers on an incredible journey through a world filled with magic, intrigue, and betrayal. Set in a dystopian realm where darkness reigns supreme, this remarkable fantasy book explores themes of resilience, hope, and the power of rebellion.

The Fifth Season

by N.K. Jemisin

The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin is a mesmerizing book on fantasy that will transport you to a world unlike any other. Prepare to embark on a thrilling journey through a realm of magic, adventure, and wonder.

The Black Prism

by Brent Weeks

The Black Prism is an enthralling book about fantasy that immerses readers in a world of magic, power, and deception. Set in a kingdom where magic is controlled by color, the story follows the life of a powerful magician known as a Prism. With his ability to harness the seven colors of magic, the Prism is a force to be reckoned with.

However, as the Prism’s powers begin to wane, he must navigate a treacherous political landscape and uncover dark secrets that threaten to tear the kingdom apart. Filled with intricate plotting, epic battles, and complex characters, this fantasy book will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

As the story unfolds, readers will be drawn into a world where magic is both a blessing and a curse, where loyalty and betrayal are constantly at odds, and where the line between hero and villain is blurred. With its richly detailed world-building and captivating storytelling, The Black Prism is a must-read for fans of books on fantasy who crave a thrilling and immersive reading experience.

The Eye of the World

by Robert Jordan

The Eye of the World: A Captivating Journey into a Realm of Enchantment

Embark on an extraordinary adventure with The Eye of the World, a mesmerizing creation by Robert Jordan that will transport you into a world brimming with magic, mystery, and myth.

This epic book on fantasy immerses readers into a realm where the lines between reality and imagination blur. With its rich tapestry of enchanting landscapes and unforgettable characters, The Eye of the World beckons readers to surrender to its spellbinding charm.

In this fantasy book par excellence, Jordan masterfully weaves a tale of destiny and heroism that will keep you on the edge of your seat from the very first page. Follow the journey of a group of young and unsuspecting villagers as they are thrust into a world teetering on the brink of chaos. As they traverse treacherous landscapes and face unfathomable dangers, they soon discover that they hold the key to the salvation of their world.

With a deft touch, Jordan explores themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. His exquisite storytelling and attention to detail breathe life into every page, making this book about fantasy a true masterpiece. From epic battles to heart-wrenching moments of loss, this riveting saga will leave you breathless, yearning for more.

So, prepare to be enthralled by The Eye of the World, a fantasy book that will whisk you away to a world where anything is possible. Unleash your imagination and let yourself be swept up in a whirlwind of adventure and wonder. The journey awaits!

The Bear and the Nightingale

by Katherine Arden

The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden is a mesmerizing tale that will transport you into a world of enchantment and wonder. This captivating book on fantasy weaves together folklore, magic, and the power of belief in a way that will leave you spellbound.

The Poppy War

by R.F. Kuang

The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang is an enthralling book about fantasy that will transport you to a world of magic, war, and destiny. Set in a richly imagined fictional realm, this fantasy book follows the journey of Rin, a young orphan who defies all odds to become a legendary warrior.

The City of Brass

by S.A. Chakraborty

The City of Brass: A Mesmerizing Tale of Enchanting Realms

Prepare to be swept away into a world of mysticism, magic, and mayhem in The City of Brass! This spellbinding book on fantasy takes readers on a breathtaking journey through the enchanting realms of djinn, mythical creatures, and ancient civilizations.

Delve into a richly imagined world where ancient legends come to life, where secrets lurk in every shadow, and where power and treachery hold equal sway. This book about fantasy is a masterful blend of adventure and intrigue, weaving together political upheaval, forbidden romance, and supernatural elements that will leave readers utterly captivated.

Step into the shoes of Nahri, a young con artist with a hidden gift for healing, as she unwittingly summons a powerful djinn warrior named Dara. As Nahri is whisked away to the legendary city of Daevabad, a dazzling metropolis teeming with magical beings, she must navigate the treacherous political landscape and confront her own mysterious origins.

Immerse yourself in the lush prose and vivid imagery that bring this fantastical world to life. From bustling markets filled with exotic goods to opulent palaces adorned with intricate mosaics, every page of this fantasy book is a feast for the senses. With its intricate world-building and complex characters, The City of Brass is a must-read for any fan of the fantasy genre.

Are you ready to embark on an epic adventure filled with danger, betrayal, and the allure of the unknown? Then grab a copy of The City of Brass and prepare to lose yourself in a world where anything is possible and the boundaries of imagination are pushed to their limits.

The Priory of the Orange Tree

by Samantha Shannon

Welcome to the enchanting world of The Priory of the Orange Tree, a mesmerizing and spellbinding book on fantasy that will transport you to a realm of breathtaking magic and epic battles. Samantha Shannon weaves a tale that is both timeless and exhilarating, captivating readers with her richly imagined world and unforgettable characters.

In this enthralling book about fantasy, dragons soar through the skies, ancient prophecies loom, and kingdoms teeter on the edge of war. A divided world, where the East and the West have been locked in a bitter conflict for centuries, holds the key to the fate of all. But as the shadows of darkness grow longer, a powerful threat emerges, forcing unlikely alliances to form and heroes to rise.

Get ready to embark on a journey unlike any other as you delve into this extraordinary fantasy book. Immerse yourself in lush landscapes, unravel intricate political intrigues, and witness the power of love and loyalty in the face of overwhelming adversity. With every turn of the page, you’ll find yourself more deeply entangled in a web of secrets and surprises.

Prepare to be swept away by the breathtaking prose and masterful storytelling of Samantha Shannon. The Priory of the Orange Tree is a must-read for any fan of fantasy, offering an escape into a world where the impossible becomes possible, and where the bonds of friendship and courage can conquer even the darkest of forces. So, grab your sword, summon your magic, and join the adventure of a lifetime!

The Golem and the Jinni

by Helene Wecker

The Golem and the Jinni is a captivating book on fantasy that takes readers on an enchanting journey through the streets of 19th-century New York City. Helene Wecker weaves a mesmerizing tale of two mythical creatures, a golem and a jinni, who find themselves bound together by destiny.

In this spellbinding fantasy book, Wecker explores the clash of cultures as the golem, created to be a dutiful servant, and the jinni, born free-spirited and wild, navigate their way through a world full of humans. As they try to adapt to their new surroundings, they discover that they are not the only extraordinary beings hiding in plain sight.

The story unfolds with a rich tapestry of vivid imagery and intricate storytelling, as the golem and the jinni forge an unlikely friendship amidst the bustling city. Wecker’s elegant prose effortlessly transports readers into a world where magic and reality coexist, and where the line between good and evil becomes blurred.

As the golem and the jinni navigate their own personal struggles and search for a sense of belonging, they become entangled in a web of secrets and mysteries that threaten to expose their true nature. Will they be able to find their place in a world that fears what it cannot understand?

The Golem and the Jinni is far more than just a book about fantasy; it is a captivating exploration of identity, friendship, and the human condition. Wecker’s exceptional storytelling and well-drawn characters breathe life into this fantastical world, making it a must-read for anyone who craves a unique and immersive reading experience.

Uprooted

by Naomi Novik

Uprooted by Naomi Novik is a spellbinding tale that transports readers to a world filled with enchantment and wonder. This mesmerizing book on fantasy weaves a captivating story of magic, adventure, and unexpected friendships.

The Queen of the Tearling

by Erika Johansen

The Queen of the Tearling is a mesmerizing book on fantasy that will transport you to a world like no other. Set in a kingdom called Tearling, this gripping tale follows the journey of a young princess named Kelsea Raleigh Glynn as she ascends to the throne and faces the challenges that come with it.

The Alchemist of Loom

by Elise Kova

The Alchemist of Loom is an exhilarating adventure that transports readers into a mesmerizing world of magic, alchemy, and intrigue.

This captivating fantasy book takes place in a realm where sorcerers, dragons, and alchemists coexist amidst a backdrop of political unrest. The protagonist, Ari, is an infamous thief and an incredibly skilled alchemist known as the “White Wraith.” Her cunning and audacious nature make her a force to be reckoned with.

As the story unfolds, Ari finds herself entangled in a dangerous game of power and deception. With the fate of her city hanging in the balance, she must navigate treacherous alliances, unravel dark secrets, and confront her own troubled past.

Elise Kova weaves a spellbinding tale with intricately crafted world-building and well-developed characters. Her vivid descriptions and attention to detail bring the fantastical city of Loom to life, immersing readers in a world filled with steampunk elements, magical inventions, and a unique blend of technology and alchemy.

The Alchemist of Loom is an enthralling book about fantasy that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. With its compelling storyline, richly imagined world, and a protagonist who is both fierce and vulnerable, this book is a must-read for fans of fantasy and adventure.

Conclusion

After exploring the vast and enchanting world of fantasy, it is clear that there is no shortage of remarkable books about fantasy to captivate readers of all ages. From the timeless classics that have shaped the genre to the modern masterpieces that push the boundaries of imagination, these 20 books are a treasure trove for anyone seeking to embark on extraordinary adventures. Whether you are a seasoned fantasy enthusiast or a curious newcomer, these books will transport you to realms filled with magic, mythical creatures, and epic quests. So grab a copy, turn the page, and let yourself be whisked away into the boundless realms of fantasy.