20 best books on fantasy worlds – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you ready to escape reality and dive into a world of magic, adventure, and imagination? Look no further! We have compiled a list of the 20 best books about fantasy worlds that will transport you to extraordinary realms filled with mythical creatures, epic quests, and spellbinding enchantments. Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy enthusiast or just starting your journey, these books will captivate your imagination and leave you longing for more. Prepare to be whisked away into the pages of these incredible fantasy worlds!


The Name of the Wind

by Patrick Rothfuss

The Name of the Wind: A Captivating Journey through Enchanting Realms!

Step into the enthralling universe of Patrick Rothfuss’ masterpiece, a spellbinding tale that unravels the mysteries of diverse realms, where magic intertwines with destiny. In this book on fantasy worlds, Rothfuss skillfully weaves a narrative that will transport you to unimaginable landscapes and immerse you in a world of wonder.

Prepare to be whisked away on an extraordinary adventure as you follow the life of Kvothe, a legendary figure in a realm filled with mythical creatures, arcane knowledge, and hidden secrets. From the bustling streets of bustling cities to treacherous forests and ancient libraries, this book about fantasy worlds will take you on a breathtaking journey through enchanted lands.

Delve into the intricacies of magic, music, and the pursuit of knowledge as Kvothe’s captivating story unfolds. As the protagonist faces both triumphs and trials, you will be captivated by the depth of the world Rothfuss has created, where every turn of the page reveals new wonders and challenges.

With eloquent prose and vivid descriptions, Rothfuss paints a vivid tapestry of fantasy worlds that will ignite your imagination and leave you yearning for more. Lose yourself in the pages of this fantasy worlds book, a must-read for lovers of epic tales and those who yearn to explore realms beyond our own.

Prepare to be enthralled, for once you enter the pages of The Name of the Wind, you may never want to leave the enchanting world that Rothfuss has created.

The Way of Kings

by Brandon Sanderson

Are you ready to embark on an epic adventure through realms of wonder and imagination? Look no further than The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson, a captivating book about fantastical realms!

This enthralling tale transports readers to a world brimming with magic, mystery, and breathtaking landscapes. Set in a universe where the impossible becomes possible, Sanderson weaves a rich tapestry of fantastical elements that will leave you spellbound.

Step into a realm where swords clash, ancient powers awaken, and heroes rise from the ashes. In this book on fantasy worlds, readers will encounter fascinating characters, each with their own unique abilities and complex motivations. From brave warriors to cunning scholars, this cast of characters will capture your heart and keep you turning the pages late into the night.

But it’s not just the characters that make this book about fantasy worlds so extraordinary. Sanderson’s meticulous attention to detail in crafting his intricate world-building is truly awe-inspiring. Every corner of this fantastical realm is meticulously fleshed out, from the towering mountains to the hidden cities and everything in between.

Prepare to immerse yourself in a world where anything is possible, where the boundaries of reality are pushed to their limits. The Way of Kings is a fantasy worlds book that will take you on a journey like no other, leaving you yearning for more with each passing chapter.

So, dear reader, are you ready to lose yourself in the wonders of this extraordinary realm? Grab a copy of The Way of Kings and let your imagination soar!

A Game of Thrones

by George R.R. Martin

A Game of Thrones, written by George R.R. Martin, is an enthralling book about a captivating and immersive fantasy realm. Dive into a world filled with intrigue, treachery, and mythical creatures as you embark on an unforgettable journey through the Seven Kingdoms. Brace yourself for a tale that will transport you to a realm beyond your wildest imagination. This fantasy worlds book will leave you breathless with its intricate plot, complex characters, and richly detailed settings. Are you ready to lose yourself in a book on fantasy worlds like no other?

The Hobbit

by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien is a captivating book about a fantastical realm filled with enchanting creatures and thrilling adventures. Dive into a mesmerizing world where mythical beings like dragons, dwarves, and elves coexist alongside courageous hobbits. Follow the journey of Bilbo Baggins, a reluctant hero who embarks on an epic quest to reclaim a lost kingdom from the clutches of a fearsome dragon. This spellbinding tale will transport you to a realm of magic and wonder, where danger lurks at every turn and bravery knows no bounds. Get ready to be swept away into a mesmerizing land of fantasy and embark on an unforgettable adventure with Bilbo Baggins in this extraordinary fantasy worlds book.

The Final Empire

by Brandon Sanderson

The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson is a captivating book about a mesmerizing realm of magic, intrigue, and rebellion. This epic tale takes place in a mesmerizing realm of enchantment, where mystical powers and mythical creatures abound. Dive into a world where sorcery and adventure collide, as a band of unlikely heroes sets out on a dangerous mission to overthrow a tyrannical ruler and restore hope to a war-torn land.

The Lies of Locke Lamora

by Scott Lynch

Are you ready to embark on a thrilling journey through the realms of imagination? Look no further than The Lies of Locke Lamora, a captivating book on fantasy worlds that will transport you to a realm like no other.

Dive headfirst into the mesmerizing pages of this book about fantasy worlds, where the line between truth and deceit becomes blurred. Follow the enigmatic Locke Lamora, a cunning and audacious thief, as he navigates the treacherous city of Camorr.

In this fantasy worlds book, Lynch weaves a tapestry of intrigue, danger, and betrayal. Camorr, a richly detailed city filled with towering spires and dark alleys, is the playground of thieves and scoundrels. And at the heart of it all is Locke, a master of deception and manipulation.

But as Locke and his crew of misfits set their sights on their greatest heist yet, a mysterious figure known as the Gray King emerges from the shadows, threatening to upend the delicate balance of power in Camorr. With danger lurking at every turn, Locke must use every trick up his sleeve to survive.

The Lies of Locke Lamora is a spellbinding tale that will transport you to a fantasy world like no other. With its intricate plotting, vivid world-building, and unforgettable characters, this book is a must-read for fans of fantasy and adventure.

So, prepare to lose yourself in the captivating realm of Camorr and experience a world where lies and deceit reign supreme. The Lies of Locke Lamora is a thrilling ride that will leave you breathless and hungry for more.

The Blade Itself

by Joe Abercrombie

The Blade Itself is an epic journey through the realms of fantasy, where mythical creatures and warring factions clash in a battle for power and survival. This captivating novel takes readers on a thrilling adventure through enchanting realms, with vivid descriptions and larger-than-life characters.

The Magicians

by Lev Grossman

The Magicians by Lev Grossman is a spellbinding book on fantastical realms and enchanting adventures. Step into a world where magic is real and dreams come true. This mesmerizing tale takes readers on an unforgettable journey through a universe where imagination knows no bounds. Brace yourself for a rollercoaster ride of emotions as you delve into this captivating fantasy worlds book.

The Black Prism

by Brent Weeks

The Black Prism by Brent Weeks is an enthralling journey into a captivating realm of magic and intrigue. This spellbinding novel immerses readers in a richly imagined world where sorcery reigns supreme and darkness lurks at every turn.

Set in a mesmerizing realm of enchantment and wonder, The Black Prism transports readers to a fantastical universe where mystical powers and breathtaking landscapes collide. This riveting book about fantasy worlds introduces us to a society where individuals known as Drafters possess the ability to harness the raw power of light and color, using it to shape reality itself.

Within this intricate tapestry of sorcery and political machinations, readers follow the journey of Kip, a young man who discovers that he has inherited extraordinary magical abilities. As Kip navigates the treacherous world of the Chromeria, a powerful organization of Drafters, he becomes embroiled in a deadly conspiracy that threatens to tear apart the fragile balance of power.

With its vivid world-building and nuanced characters, The Black Prism is a true feast for fans of fantasy worlds. Brent Weeks weaves a masterful tale of magic, betrayal, and redemption, drawing readers into a realm where nothing is as it seems and the boundaries between light and darkness blur.

Prepare to be transported to a universe where fantastical powers collide and secrets lurk around every corner. The Black Prism is a must-read for anyone craving an immersive and thrilling adventure in a world beyond imagination.

The Fifth Season

by N.K. Jemisin

The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin is an extraordinary book about mystical realms and magical realms. Immerse yourself in a captivating journey through fantastical dimensions and explore the wonders of parallel universes. This mind-bending fantasy worlds book will leave you spellbound and yearning for more. Get ready to be transported to a world unlike any other, where the boundaries of reality are pushed to their limits. Prepare to be amazed by the intricate world-building and intricate characters that inhabit this mesmerizing book on fantasy worlds. Let The Fifth Season take you on an unforgettable adventure through the realms of imagination.

The Eye of the World

by Robert Jordan

The Eye of the World is a mesmerizing book on enchanted realms and mystical dimensions, where reality intertwines with the extraordinary. Dive into the captivating pages of this spellbinding tale, as it takes you on an epic journey through fantastical realms and enigmatic landscapes. Delve into a wondrous realm where magic reigns supreme, and mythical creatures roam the lands. Join a group of courageous heroes as they embark on a perilous quest to save their world from an ancient evil. This enthralling book about fantasy worlds will transport you to a realm of wonder and adventure, where imagination knows no bounds.

The City of Brass

by S.A. Chakraborty

The City of Brass: A Mesmerizing Journey through Enchanting Realms

Embark on an extraordinary adventure through mystical realms and magical landscapes with The City of Brass by S.A. Chakraborty, a mesmerizing book about fantasy worlds that will transport you to unimaginable places.

Get ready to lose yourself in a spellbinding tale of djinn, mythical creatures, and ancient legends. This fantasy worlds book will sweep you away to the dazzling city of Daevabad, a place where enchantment is as plentiful as the shifting sands of the desert. In this sprawling metropolis, Djinn tribes and humans coexist, their lives entwined in a delicate balance of power and secrets.

Follow Nahri, a clever and resourceful street hustler, as she unwittingly unleashes a dormant power that attracts the attention of the powerful and enigmatic djinn warrior, Dara. Together, they embark on a treacherous journey to the legendary city of brass, a place of untold riches and dangerous intrigues. But as Nahri delves deeper into this mesmerizing world, she discovers that her true heritage and destiny lie within the very heart of Daevabad.

Prepare to be immersed in a richly woven tapestry of culture, politics, and magic as Chakraborty expertly crafts a world where every detail comes to life. From intricate palace intrigues to breathtaking battles, each page of this book on fantasy worlds is filled with heart-pounding action and jaw-dropping revelations.

With its vivid world-building, complex characters, and intricate plot, The City of Brass will captivate readers who crave an escape into a realm where the impossible becomes possible. Unleash your imagination and lose yourself in this extraordinary tale that will leave you yearning for more.

The Poppy War

by R.F. Kuang

The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang is a captivating journey into a realm of boundless imagination and wonder. Set in a world of fantasy and magic, this epic tale follows a young girl named Rin who is thrust into a realm of mythical creatures and ancient prophecies. As she navigates through a war-torn land, she discovers her own hidden powers and becomes entangled in a battle for the future of her people. With its rich world-building and intricate storytelling, The Poppy War is a truly mesmerizing book about fantasy worlds that will transport readers to a realm of unimaginable beauty and danger.

The Bear and the Nightingale

by Katherine Arden

The Bear and the Nightingale is a captivating book on fantasy worlds that will transport you to a realm of magic and folklore. Set in medieval Russia, this enchanting tale weaves together elements of fantasy, history, and mythology to create a truly immersive reading experience.

In this fantasy worlds book, the protagonist, Vasya, is a young girl with the ability to see and communicate with mythical creatures. As she navigates a world where ancient beliefs clash with the rise of Christianity, Vasya must confront powerful forces that threaten to destroy her village and the very fabric of her existence.

Arden’s rich and lyrical prose breathes life into the fantasy worlds she creates, vividly depicting the lush landscapes, mystical creatures, and complex relationships between the characters. The story is filled with intrigue, adventure, and a touch of romance, making it a page-turner from start to finish.

If you’re a fan of books about fantasy worlds that transport you to a different time and place, The Bear and the Nightingale is a must-read. Its blend of folklore, magic, and historical fiction will leave you spellbound and yearning for more.

The Priory of the Orange Tree

by Samantha Shannon

Discover a captivating epic in the world of dragons and magic with The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon.

Step into a mesmerizing tale set in a realm brimming with enchantment, where dragons soar through the skies and ancient prophecies shape the destiny of nations. In this enthralling book on fantasy worlds, prepare to embark on a riveting adventure that will transport you to a realm like no other.

Journey through a tapestry of complex characters, each with their own goals, secrets, and desires. Queen Sabran the Ninth, ruling over the prosperous kingdom of Inys, must confront her fears and face the looming threat of an ancient enemy. Meanwhile, Ead Duryan, a skilled mage and secret guardian, embarks on a perilous mission to protect the queen at all costs.

As the story unfolds, The Priory of the Orange Tree weaves together an intricate web of political intrigue, forbidden romance, and breathtaking battles. Delve into a world where magic is both revered and feared, and where the fate of kingdoms hangs in the balance. Witness the clash of dragons and humans, as ancient legends resurface and long-held secrets are brought to light.

This book about fantasy worlds will transport you to stunning landscapes, from the bustling streets of cities to the mystical depths of ancient forests. With her vivid and evocative prose, Samantha Shannon paints a vivid picture of a world teetering on the brink of chaos, where bravery and sacrifice are the only hope for salvation.

Prepare to lose yourself in a labyrinth of fascinating cultures, rich histories, and intricate mythologies. In this fantasy worlds book, Shannon masterfully crafts a narrative that will leave you yearning for more, as you become deeply invested in the fates of the characters and the ultimate outcome of this epic clash between good and evil.

If you are a fan of epic fantasy, intricate world-building, and compelling characters, The Priory of the Orange Tree is a must-read. Immerse yourself in a world where dragons reign, magic is a force to be reckoned with, and destiny hangs in the balance. Enter this fantastical realm and prepare to be enchanted.

The Broken Empire Trilogy

by Mark Lawrence

The Broken Empire Trilogy is a mesmerizing book on fantasy worlds that will transport you to a realm of magic, adventure, and intrigue. This epic tale, written by the brilliant wordsmith Mark Lawrence, showcases a world where danger lurks around every corner and power is a double-edged sword.

The Stormlight Archive

by Brandon Sanderson

The Stormlight Archive is an epic book on fantasy worlds that will transport you to a realm filled with awe-inspiring magic, breathtaking landscapes, and larger-than-life characters. Written by the master storyteller Brandon Sanderson, this fantasy worlds book is a thrilling journey through a world where storms rage with incredible power and ancient powers awaken.

The Kingkiller Chronicle

by Patrick Rothfuss

The Kingkiller Chronicle by Patrick Rothfuss is an enchanting tale that transports readers to mesmerizing realms of wonder and magic. This captivating series is a must-read for anyone who craves a book on fantastical realms, a book about mystical dimensions, or a fantasy worlds book that will leave them spellbound.

The Inheritance Trilogy

by N.K. Jemisin

Step into a boundless realm of wonder and magic with N.K. Jemisin’s extraordinary epic trilogy – a spellbinding saga that will transport you to realms beyond imagination. Brace yourself for a mind-bending journey through otherworldly dimensions as you delve into the pages of The Inheritance Trilogy.

The First Law Trilogy

by Joe Abercrombie

The First Law Trilogy: A Journey through Epic Realms

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through mesmerizing realms with The First Law Trilogy by Joe Abercrombie. This gripping series takes readers on an immersive journey through fantastical lands filled with magic, treachery, and epic battles.

Step into a world of fantasy where the line between heroes and villains blurs, and morality is shrouded in shades of gray. Abercrombie’s masterful storytelling weaves together multiple narratives, each following a different character on their own path of self-discovery and survival.

Prepare to be enthralled by a book about fantasy realms that challenges traditional tropes and introduces complex, flawed characters who are neither wholly good nor entirely evil. From the cunning and manipulative mastermind, Glokta, to the savage and relentless warrior, Logan Ninefingers, the cast of characters is as diverse as the realms they inhabit.

As the pages turn, readers will find themselves immersed in a fantasy worlds book that delves deep into the human psyche, exploring themes of power, vengeance, and the consequences of choices made in a world steeped in violence and political intrigue.

With Abercrombie’s razor-sharp prose, readers are transported to lush, vividly imagined landscapes, from sprawling cities filled with corruption to desolate battlefields where the fate of nations hangs in the balance. The world-building is meticulous, creating a rich tapestry of cultures, religions, and histories that add depth and authenticity to the story.

Whether you are a seasoned fan of fantasy or a newcomer to the genre, The First Law Trilogy promises an enthralling journey that will leave you yearning for more. Brace yourself for an epic tale of power, war, and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to challenge the status quo in Joe Abercrombie’s masterpiece.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 books about fantasy worlds are a must-read for any fan of the genre. With their captivating narratives, richly imagined settings, and memorable characters, these books transport readers to extraordinary realms filled with magic, adventure, and wonder. Whether you’re seeking epic quests, political intrigue, or fairy tale retellings, there is something for everyone in this diverse selection. So, grab a book, dive into a new world, and let your imagination soar!