The fantasy genre is home to sprawling worlds, intricate magic systems, and unforgettable characters that define generations of readers. Choosing where to start can be as daunting as facing a dragon. This curated guide is your map to the best fantasy book series ever written, from the foundational pillars of the genre to modern masterpieces that are redefining its boundaries.
Our goal is straightforward: to provide a definitive resource that cuts through the noise and delivers actionable recommendations. We move beyond simple summaries to give you the essential information needed to dive right in. For each celebrated series, you will find a clear, concise overview, guidance on the correct reading order, and a breakdown of why it stands out as a must-read epic. This list has been carefully selected to represent the pinnacle of fantasy storytelling, encompassing a range of subgenres, from high fantasy and grimdark to urban fantasy and science fantasy.
This article is designed for both seasoned adventurers in literary realms and newcomers ready to open their first portal. Whether you are searching for your next great obsession, organizing a book club, or simply seeking to explore the genre's most iconic works, this comprehensive list provides the clarity you need. We will cover titans of the genre like The Lord of the Rings and The Wheel of Time, alongside contemporary classics such as The Stormlight Archive and The Broken Earth Trilogy. Prepare to embark on your next unforgettable journey.
1. The Lord of the Rings
No list of the best fantasy book series would be complete without J.R.R. Tolkien's magnum opus, The Lord of the Rings. This series is the bedrock of modern high fantasy, establishing the archetypes, lore-rich world-building, and epic scope that have defined the genre for decades. It chronicles the perilous quest of the hobbit Frodo Baggins to destroy the One Ring, an artifact of immense power created by the Dark Lord Sauron.
The story unfolds across the meticulously crafted continent of Middle-earth, a world with its own languages, histories, and mythologies. A fellowship of heroes, including men, elves, dwarves, and hobbits, unites to aid Frodo, facing overwhelming odds in a monumental struggle between good and evil. Its profound themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the corrupting nature of power resonate as strongly today as they did upon publication.
Why It's a Must-Read
The Lord of the Rings is more than a story; it's a foundational text. Its influence is vast, shaping everything from the Dungeons & Dragons role-playing game to countless subsequent fantasy novels. Peter Jackson’s Academy Award-winning film adaptations brought Middle-earth to a new generation, cementing its status as a global cultural touchstone. Reading the series provides a deep appreciation for the roots of the entire fantasy genre.
Reading Order and Tips
For the best reading experience, follow this order and keep these tips in mind:
Start with The Hobbit: This prequel is a more accessible, lighthearted introduction to Middle-earth and provides crucial context for the main trilogy.
The Main Trilogy: Read the core series in publication order:
- The Fellowship of the Ring
- The Two Towers
- The Return of the King
Use the Maps: Tolkien's world is vast. Referencing the maps included in the books will greatly enhance your understanding of the Fellowship's journey and the scale of the conflict.
Don't Skip the Appendices: Located at the end of The Return of the King, the appendices offer a treasure trove of information on the history, languages, and lineages of Middle-earth, enriching the world in incredible detail.
2. A Song of Ice and Fire
George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire stands as a monumental work of modern fantasy, celebrated for subverting genre tropes with its gritty realism and political complexity. Set primarily in the volatile continent of Westeros, the series follows the brutal, Machiavellian power struggles among several noble houses vying for control of the Iron Throne. It is a world where magic is subtle and returning, winters can last for generations, and no character, no matter how beloved, is ever truly safe.
The narrative is told through the shifting perspectives of a vast cast of morally ambiguous characters, from cynical schemers to honorable knights and exiled royals. Martin masterfully weaves intricate plots of war, betrayal, and ambition, creating a sprawling epic that feels both historically grounded and fantastically imaginative. Its unflinching look at the human cost of conflict has made it a touchstone for the "grimdark" subgenre.
Why It's a Must-Read
A Song of Ice and Fire revolutionized fantasy by prioritizing character-driven political intrigue over clear-cut battles of good versus evil. The immense popularity of HBO's Game of Thrones adaptation turned the series into a global cultural phenomenon, proving that fantasy could attract a massive mainstream audience. Reading the books offers a richer, more detailed experience, with deeper character motivations and world-building that the show could only scratch the surface of. This is one of the best fantasy book series for readers who crave complex characters and shocking, unpredictable plot twists.
Reading Order and Tips
To navigate the complex world of Westeros, follow this reading order and consider these suggestions:
Core Novels: The main story should be read in publication order, as the plot is intensely sequential:
- A Game of Thrones
- A Clash of Kings
- A Storm of Swords
- A Feast for Crows
- A Dance with Dragons
Keep Track of Characters: The cast is enormous. Many readers find it helpful to keep an online wiki or the book’s appendices handy to remember the various houses and their members.
Pace Yourself: The books are dense with detail. Don't be afraid to take your time to absorb the intricate plotlines and rich lore. Audiobooks are also an excellent option to help with the pronunciation of names and places. For a complete guide on how to approach the entire universe, you can find more information about where to start with the A Song of Ice and Fire books in order.
Prequels and Histories: For those who want more, Fire & Blood (a history of the Targaryen dynasty) and the Tales of Dunk and Egg novellas offer fantastic supplemental reading.
3. The Wheel of Time
For readers seeking a fantasy series of truly epic proportions, Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time is an unparalleled journey. Spanning 14 massive volumes, this series presents a world of immense depth, intricate politics, and a sprawling cast of characters. The story begins in the secluded Two Rivers, where a young man named Rand al'Thor and his friends discover they are central to a prophecy foretelling the return of the Dark One, a malevolent, god-like entity.
The series is renowned for its detailed magic system, the One Power, which is divided into male and female halves, Saidin and Saidar. It explores a richly imagined world with diverse cultures, prophecies, and ancient histories that slowly unfold over thousands of pages. Following Jordan's passing, the series was masterfully completed by Brandon Sanderson, making it one of the most ambitious and ultimately rewarding experiences in fantasy literature and one of the best fantasy book series available.
Why It's a Must-Read
The Wheel of Time set a new standard for long-form epic fantasy, demonstrating how a story could be sustained across more than a dozen books without losing momentum. Its influence is seen in many modern fantasy epics, and its complex character arcs and world-building are second to none. The recent Amazon Prime Video adaptation has introduced this monumental story to a new audience, highlighting its enduring appeal and intricate plot.
Reading Order and Tips
The sheer scale of the series can be daunting, but these tips will help you navigate your journey. You can explore a deeper analysis of different reading strategies by checking out this guide on complete vs. publication order for book series.
Read in Publication Order: The story is chronological, so sticking to the publication order is essential. Start with The Eye of the World and proceed sequentially.
The Prequel: Read the prequel, New Spring, after book 10, Crossroads of Twilight. It provides valuable backstory but is best appreciated once you are familiar with the main characters and world.
Use Online Resources: Don't be afraid to use fan wikis or chapter summaries (carefully, to avoid spoilers) to keep track of the vast number of characters and plotlines.
Consider Audiobooks: The audiobook versions, narrated by Michael Kramer and Kate Reading, are legendary. They can help with pacing and pronunciation, making the dense narrative more accessible.
4. The Stormlight Archive
Brandon Sanderson's ongoing epic, The Stormlight Archive, stands as a monumental achievement in modern fantasy. Set on the storm-swept world of Roshar, this series introduces a truly alien landscape, a unique magical system known as Surgebinding, and deeply complex characters grappling with their past traumas. It follows the intertwined destinies of a slave-turned-general, a scholarly princess, a tormented assassin, and a brilliant artist, each discovering ancient powers as a long-forgotten threat re-emerges.
The story is a sprawling tapestry of political intrigue, awe-inspiring battles, and profound philosophical questions. Sanderson masterfully explores themes of honor, mental health, and redemption against a backdrop of world-shattering events. Its intricate plotting and meticulously designed magic systems have earned it critical acclaim and a fiercely dedicated global fanbase, making it a cornerstone of contemporary fantasy literature.
Why It's a Must-Read
The Stormlight Archive is the definition of epic fantasy on a grand scale, pushing the boundaries of what the genre can achieve. Each book is a massive tome filled with world-changing revelations and intimate character moments. The series is also a central pillar of Sanderson's interconnected "Cosmere" universe, where characters and concepts from different series subtly cross over, rewarding dedicated readers with a richer, universe-spanning narrative.
Reading Order and Tips
This series is vast, so keeping these tips in mind will enhance your reading journey:
The Main Sequence: The core books are intended to be read in publication order. Each is a self-contained story while advancing the overarching plot:
- The Way of Kings
- Words of Radiance
- Oathbringer
- Rhythm of War
Include the Novellas: Read the novellas Edgedancer (between books 2 and 3) and Dawnshard (between books 3 and 4) for crucial character development and plot context.
Use the Coppermind Wiki: This fan-run wiki is an indispensable resource for keeping track of characters, magic, and lore. Be wary of spoilers for books you haven't read yet.
Appreciate the Artwork: The books feature stunning interior art by artists like Michael Whelan and Ben McSweeney that illustrates Roshar's unique flora, fauna, and technology. Take time to study these images as they enrich the world-building. For a full list of Sanderson's works, you can explore his complete book order.
5. The First Law Trilogy
For readers who prefer their fantasy with a heavy dose of grit, cynicism, and moral ambiguity, Joe Abercrombie's The First Law Trilogy is an essential read. This series masterfully deconstructs the classic high fantasy tropes, presenting a world where heroes are deeply flawed, villains have compelling justifications, and violence has brutal, realistic consequences. The story follows a cast of unforgettable characters, including a vain nobleman, a bitter torturer, and a feared barbarian, as their paths collide in a world teetering on the brink of war.
Abercrombie’s world is not a place of clear good versus evil; it is a murky landscape of gray motivations and savage politics. The series is celebrated for its razor-sharp dialogue, dark humor, and some of the most complex and memorable character arcs in modern fiction. It turns the traditional epic fantasy narrative on its head, making it a standout entry in any discussion of the best fantasy book series.
Why It's a Must-Read
The First Law is a cornerstone of the grimdark subgenre. Its critical acclaim stems from its profound character work; you may not always like the characters, but you will understand them. Abercrombie's influence is significant, paving the way for a more grounded and character-focused approach to fantasy storytelling. The series has also spawned multiple standalone novels and a follow-up trilogy set in the same world, allowing readers to dive even deeper into its cynical, captivating universe.
Reading Order and Tips
To fully appreciate the world and its intricate character developments, follow this suggested path:
Start with the Core Trilogy: This is the foundation of the entire saga.
- The Blade Itself
- Before They Are Hanged
- Last Argument of Kings
Embrace the Ambiguity: Don't expect clear-cut heroes or villains. The series' strength lies in its morally complex characters. Say one thing for these books, say they’re realistic about human nature.
Continue with the Standalones: After the trilogy, read the standalone novels (Best Served Cold, The Heroes, Red Country) which build upon the world and feature familiar side characters in leading roles. They are crucial for understanding the full scope of events before starting the next trilogy.
Appreciate the Dark Humor: Abercrombie's writing is infused with a biting, cynical wit that provides levity amidst the grim and often brutal narrative.
6. The Kingkiller Chronicle
Patrick Rothfuss’s The Kingkiller Chronicle is a masterclass in first-person narrative and lyrical prose. The series distinguishes itself through its unique framing device: the legendary figure Kvothe, now living in anonymity as a humble innkeeper, recounts his life story to a scribe known as the Chronicler over the course of three days. The first two books cover the first two days of his tale.
The story follows Kvothe's journey from a young, gifted member of a traveling troupe to a brilliant, infamous student at the University, where he studies the arcane arts. The world is built on a "hard" magic system based on sympathy, where a user can bind objects together, and the far rarer and more powerful magic of "naming," which grants control over the fundamental elements of existence. The narrative is an engrossing, poignant account of a man who becomes a legend, full of music, magic, and mystery.
Why It's a Must-Read
The Kingkiller Chronicle earns its place as one of the best fantasy book series due to its unparalleled character voice and beautiful writing. Rothfuss’s prose is often compared to poetry, making the act of reading a pleasure in itself. The intricate magic system and the academic setting of the University offer a refreshing change of pace from traditional epic quests. It has received widespread critical acclaim and inspired adaptations like the Tak board game, which originated within the novels.
Reading Order and Tips
To fully appreciate Kvothe's story, follow this reading order and consider these suggestions:
The Main Story: The core narrative unfolds in this order:
- The Name of the Wind
- The Wise Man's Fear
Embrace the Journey: The series is celebrated for its beautiful language and deep character study. Enjoy the experience of the storytelling itself, rather than rushing toward a conclusion.
Read the Novellas: The Slow Regard of Silent Things is a companion novella focusing on the character Auri. It’s best read after The Wise Man's Fear to add depth to her character and the world.
Be Aware of Its Status: The third and final book in the trilogy, The Doors of Stone, is long-awaited and has no release date. Manage your expectations and savor the two existing masterpieces for what they are.
7. The Malazan Book of the Fallen
For readers seeking a monumental challenge and unparalleled depth, Steven Erikson's The Malazan Book of the Fallen stands as a titan of the epic fantasy genre. This sprawling ten-book series is renowned for its immense scope, intricate plotlines, and profound philosophical themes. It drops readers directly into the war-torn Malazan Empire, a world teeming with ancient gods, powerful mages, and countless mortal soldiers caught in conflicts that span millennia and continents.
The narrative is deliberately complex, weaving together hundreds of character perspectives across a timeline that stretches for 300,000 years. Erikson, an archaeologist and anthropologist, infuses the world with a sense of lived-in history and cultural complexity rarely seen. The series forgoes traditional exposition, forcing the reader to piece together the history, magic systems, and political landscape from context, creating a uniquely immersive and rewarding experience for those who persevere.
Why It's a Must-Read
The Malazan Book of the Fallen is an intellectual and emotional journey unlike any other fantasy series. It explores sophisticated themes of compassion, suffering, power, and civilization with a historian's eye and a philosopher's heart. Its sheer ambition and masterful execution have earned it a fiercely devoted fan community and a place among the most respected works of modern fantasy. Completing this series is considered a significant achievement by many genre fans, offering a sense of accomplishment alongside a deeply moving story.
Reading Order and Tips
This is one of the most demanding fantasy book series to get into. Following this order and these tips is crucial for a successful read:
Follow the Main Ten-Book Series: The core story is self-contained. Read in publication order:
- Gardens of the Moon
- Deadhouse Gates
- Memories of Ice
- House of Chains
- Midnight Tides
- The Bonehunters
- Reaper's Gale
- Toll the Hounds
- Dust of Dreams
- The Crippled God
Embrace the Confusion: You are meant to be confused at the start of Gardens of the Moon. Trust that Erikson will provide answers as you progress. Don't give up.
Use Online Resources: The fan-run Malazan Wiki and the Tor.com Reread of the Fallen are invaluable resources. Be cautious of spoilers, but use them to clarify characters and events after reading a chapter.
Take Notes: Keeping a simple list of characters, locations, and their affiliations can make a huge difference in tracking the vast cast and complex plot threads.
8. The Broken Earth Trilogy
N.K. Jemisin’s The Broken Earth trilogy is a landmark achievement in modern fantasy, shattering genre conventions with its breathtaking originality and emotional depth. Set on a supercontinent called the Stillness, which is wracked by catastrophic seismic events known as Seasons, the series masterfully blends science fiction and fantasy. It follows Essun, an orogene with the power to control geological forces, as she embarks on a desperate search for her stolen daughter across a broken and hostile world.
This series is celebrated for its intricate world-building, where the planet itself is a character, and for its profound exploration of oppression, trauma, and motherhood. Jemisin’s prose is powerful and her narrative structure is both innovative and deeply immersive, most notably employing a second-person point of view that pulls the reader directly into Essun's harrowing journey. It's a challenging, rewarding, and unforgettable read that pushes the boundaries of what epic fantasy can be.
Why It's a Must-Read
The Broken Earth is not just one of the best fantasy book series of the 21st century; it’s a historic one. Each book in the trilogy won the Hugo Award for Best Novel, a first-ever, unprecedented achievement that cemented its place in the literary canon. The series offers a masterclass in storytelling, with complex, flawed characters and a plot that addresses vital social issues through a powerful fantasy lens. Its success and critical acclaim have paved the way for more diverse and thematically ambitious speculative fiction.
Reading Order and Tips
For the best experience with this monumental series, follow the publication order and keep these points in mind:
Read as a Complete Story: The three books form one continuous, tightly plotted narrative. Plan to read them back-to-back to fully appreciate the unfolding mysteries and character arcs.
- The Fifth Season
- The Obelisk Gate
- The Stone Sky
Embrace the Narrative Style: The use of second-person ("you") narration for Essun's chapters is a deliberate artistic choice. Trust the process, as it pays off with immense emotional impact by the story's conclusion.
Prepare for Heavy Themes: The series deals with intense subjects, including systemic prejudice, violence, and environmental collapse. Be prepared for an emotionally resonant and thought-provoking read that will stay with you long after the final page.
9. The Dresden Files
Jim Butcher’s The Dresden Files masterfully merges the gritty world of detective noir with the boundless possibilities of urban fantasy, creating a truly unique entry in our list of the best fantasy book series. The series follows Harry Dresden, Chicago’s only "Wizard for Hire" listed in the phone book. He's a private investigator who consults for the police on supernatural cases while navigating a treacherous hidden world of vampires, faeries, demons, and werewolves.
What begins as a series of monster-of-the-week detective stories gradually evolves into an epic saga with world-shattering stakes. Harry is a wisecracking, flawed, yet fundamentally decent hero who is constantly in over his head. The series is celebrated for its snarky humor, intricate magic system, and a plot that continuously raises the stakes, transforming from street-level mysteries into a war for the fate of reality itself.
Why It's a Must-Read
The Dresden Files is the gold standard for urban fantasy. It offers a perfect blend of action, mystery, and character development, all grounded in a vividly realized contemporary Chicago. The series' incredible growth, from its early, pulpy roots to its later, more complex and darker tones, makes for an incredibly rewarding long-term reading experience. Its popularity has led to a TV show, graphic novel adaptations, and a dedicated fanbase, proving its lasting appeal.
Reading Order and Tips
The series is extensive, but following the publication order is crucial for understanding Harry's development and the overarching plot.
Follow Publication Order: The main series must be read in order, as each book builds directly on the events of the last. The first book is Storm Front.
Start with Book 3?: Some readers find the first two books (Storm Front and Fool Moon) weaker than the rest. If you struggle, consider jumping to book three, Grave Peril, where many feel the series truly finds its footing, and then circle back later.
Enjoy the Setting: Butcher's love for Chicago shines through. If you're familiar with the city, you'll appreciate the real-world locations; if not, you'll feel like you've visited by the time you're a few books in.
Read the Short Stories: The companion anthology, Side Jobs, contains short stories set between the main novels that provide valuable character insights and world-building details. It is best read after Changes (Book 12).
Top 9 Fantasy Series Comparison
| Title | Implementation Complexity | Resource Requirements | Expected Outcomes | Ideal Use Cases | Key Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Lord of the Rings | Moderate to high; dense prose, detailed world-building | Time investment for reading and maps | Timeless epic fantasy experience | Readers seeking classic high fantasy | Masterful storytelling, rich mythology |
| A Song of Ice and Fire | High; complex plots and multiple POVs | Patience for long series, keeping track of characters | Intricate political intrigue and dark themes | Fans of gritty, politically complex fantasy | Complex characters, genre subversion |
| The Wheel of Time | High; extensive series, complex magic system | Long commitment, tracking multiple plot threads | Deeply immersive epic with satisfying conclusion | Readers wanting long, detailed fantasy saga | Detailed world, strong female leads |
| The Stormlight Archive | Very high; complex magic and world systems | Understanding of unique magic, long books | Innovative magic, strong character arcs | Fans of epic fantasy with mental health themes | Unique world, consistent publishing |
| The First Law Trilogy | Moderate; gritty, subversive narrative | Investment in morally complex characters | Dark humor, realistic portrayal of war | Readers preferring grimdark and anti-heroes | Tight plotting, witty dialogue |
| The Kingkiller Chronicle | Moderate; lyrical prose, slow plot | Patience for incomplete series | Beautiful storytelling and prose | Readers who enjoy narrative depth and mystery | Exceptional prose, innovative magic |
| The Malazan Book of the Fallen | Very high; complex narrative, large cast | Requires careful reading and note-taking | Philosophical and military fantasy depth | Experienced readers seeking ambitious epic | Ambitious scope, deep themes |
| The Broken Earth Trilogy | Moderate; innovative narrative style | Engagement with heavy themes | Groundbreaking representation and storytelling | Readers seeking diverse science fantasy | Strong themes, complete trilogy |
| The Dresden Files | Moderate; urban fantasy with humor | Long series commitment | Accessible, entertaining urban fantasy | Readers wanting genre blend with humor | Consistent quality, accessible entry |
Your Reading List Is Set—The Adventure Awaits
We've journeyed together through shattered continents, war-torn kingdoms, and magic-infused cityscapes, exploring what makes the best fantasy book series a cornerstone of modern literature. From the foundational mythology of Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings to the gritty, character-driven realism of Abercrombie's The First Law, each entry on this list represents a monumental achievement in world-building and storytelling. You've seen the intricate political webs of A Song of Ice and Fire, the epic scale of The Wheel of Time, and the groundbreaking thematic depth of The Broken Earth Trilogy.
These series are more than just escapism; they are masterclasses in imagination. They challenge our perceptions of heroism, morality, and power. Whether it's the sheer, daunting scope of The Malazan Book of the Fallen or the intimate, lyrical prose of The Kingkiller Chronicle, these stories offer a profound connection to characters and worlds that feel as real as our own. The commitment to reading a multi-volume epic is significant, but the rewards are immeasurable. You become a part of these worlds, sharing in triumphs, mourning losses, and carrying their lessons with you.
Turning Inspiration into Your Next Epic Read
Now that you're armed with summaries, reading orders, and a sense of what makes each series unique, the path forward is clear. The true magic lies not in just knowing about these incredible stories, but in experiencing them firsthand. Your next adventure is waiting on a bookshelf or in a digital library, ready to transport you.
So, how do you choose where to begin? Consider what you're looking for in your next literary journey:
For Classical High Fantasy: If you crave a timeless battle between good and evil with deep lore and a sense of profound history, your starting point is clear: The Lord of the Rings or The Wheel of Time.
For Gritty Realism and Moral Ambiguity: If you prefer your heroes flawed and your victories costly, dive headfirst into the cynical and brilliant worlds of The First Law or A Song of Ice and Fire.
For Unparalleled Scope and Complexity: For readers who want a challenge that rewards their dedication with immense depth, both The Malazan Book of the Fallen and The Stormlight Archive offer universes of staggering scale.
For Innovative Magic and Modern Sensibilities: To see the fantasy genre pushed in new directions, explore the genre-bending urban fantasy of The Dresden Files or the revolutionary, earth-shattering concepts in The Broken Earth Trilogy.
The most important takeaway is that there is no single "best" fantasy book series, only the one that is best for you right now. Your reading tastes will evolve, and a series that doesn't appeal today might become your favorite a year from now. This list isn't a finish line; it's a map of potential destinations.
Your Adventure, Your Order
Embarking on a long-running series can feel intimidating. Sprawling casts, intricate timelines, and a multitude of novellas and prequels can create confusion before you've even read the first chapter. This is precisely why understanding the correct reading order is not just helpful, it's essential for a seamless and immersive experience. Following the proper sequence ensures you witness character arcs as the author intended and see plot twists unfold with maximum impact.
Don't let the complexity of these vast worlds deter you. Instead, view it as a testament to their richness. The journey through the best fantasy book series is one of the most rewarding experiences a reader can have. You are not just reading a book; you are inhabiting another reality. The only step left is to take the first one. Pick a world, open the cover, and let the adventure begin.
Navigating the complex timelines and extensive supplementary materials of the best fantasy book series can be a quest in itself. Let Books In Order be your guide, providing meticulously researched and easy-to-follow reading lists for all your favorite authors. Visit Books In Order to ensure you experience every story exactly as the creator intended.
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