The fantasy genre is a vast ocean of sprawling worlds, intricate magic systems, and unforgettable characters. Choosing where to begin can feel as daunting as facing a dragon. This guide is your enchanted map, charting a course through nine of the absolute best fantasy series to read. We've selected these sagas not just for their popularity, but for their genre-defining impact, masterful storytelling, and the sheer power of their imagination. Our goal is to equip you with everything needed to dive into these epic narratives confidently.
Whether you're a seasoned adventurer seeking a new realm or a newcomer ready to step through the wardrobe for the first time, prepare to discover your next obsession. This comprehensive roundup is designed for readers of all types: from literary enthusiasts looking for curated recommendations to book club organizers who need a reliable reading order. We will move beyond simple summaries and offer actionable insights into why each series earns its legendary status.
Inside this article, you will find:
Curated Selections: A breakdown of nine essential fantasy series that have shaped the modern genre, from timeless classics to contemporary masterpieces.
Key Selling Points: A concise analysis of what makes each series unique, highlighting its core themes, world-building, and character development to help you find the perfect match.
Correct Reading Orders: Clear, unambiguous guidance on the best sequence to read each series, including prequels and companion novels, ensuring you experience every twist as the author intended.
We've done the navigating so you can focus on the journey. Let’s explore the stories that will capture your imagination and refuse to let go.
1. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
Any list of the best fantasy series to read must begin with the one that started it all. J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings is not just a story; it is the foundational text of modern high fantasy. The epic follows the hobbit Frodo Baggins on his perilous quest to destroy the One Ring, an artifact of immense power created by the Dark Lord Sauron. Set in the meticulously crafted world of Middle-earth, the series is a sprawling tale of friendship, sacrifice, and the enduring conflict between good and evil.
Why It's a Must-Read
Tolkien, a philologist, didn't just write a book; he built a world. He created entire languages, histories, and mythologies for Middle-earth, giving it a depth and authenticity that few other series can match. This groundbreaking approach to world-building established the tropes that have defined the genre for decades. From elves and dwarves to dark lords and epic quests, its influence can be seen in countless subsequent works, including The Wheel of Time and A Song of Ice and Fire. The series transcends simple adventure, exploring profound themes of industrialization's impact on nature, the corrupting nature of power, and the quiet heroism of ordinary people.
Getting the Most Out of Middle-earth
To fully appreciate the scope of Tolkien's creation, consider these tips for your reading journey:
Start with The Hobbit: This prequel provides a lighter, more accessible introduction to Middle-earth and key characters like Gandalf and Gollum.
Keep the Maps Handy: The books include maps for a reason. Following the fellowship's journey geographically enhances the sense of scale and immersion.
Don't Skip the Appendices: Located at the end of The Return of the King, these appendices contain a wealth of lore, including timelines, family trees, and language guides that enrich the main story.
Embrace the Poetry: The songs and poems scattered throughout the text are not filler; they are integral to the world's history and culture. Reading them aloud can help you appreciate their rhythm and meaning.
For those ready to embark on this foundational journey, understanding the correct sequence is key. To explore the complete reading order for all of Tolkien's Middle-earth books, you can view a detailed guide to The Lord of the Rings reading order.
2. A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin
Where Tolkien built the foundations of high fantasy, George R.R. Martin tore them down and rebuilt them with mud, blood, and political intrigue. A Song of Ice and Fire is a landmark series that injected a brutal dose of realism into the genre. Set in the tumultuous continent of Westeros, the story chronicles the violent power struggles among the great houses vying for control of the Iron Throne. Meanwhile, an ancient, supernatural threat stirs in the frozen North, threatening to annihilate the entire realm.
Why It's a Must-Read
Martin's series is celebrated for its complex, morally gray characters and its subversion of classic fantasy tropes. Heroes make catastrophic mistakes, villains have sympathetic motivations, and no character is safe from a sudden, shocking death. This ruthless approach to storytelling creates palpable tension and ensures that the stakes are always incredibly high. The series, which was adapted into HBO's cultural phenomenon Game of Thrones, is largely responsible for popularizing the "grimdark" subgenre. Its focus on political maneuvering, intricate plotting, and flawed humanity has influenced a new generation of fantasy authors, proving that the genre could be as gritty and unpredictable as reality itself.
Getting the Most Out of Westeros
Navigating the treacherous world of Westeros requires a sharp mind and a strong stomach. These tips will help you on your journey:
Keep Character Notes: The cast is enormous and sprawling. Jotting down names, houses, and allegiances can help you keep track of the key players.
Don't Get Too Attached: Martin is famous for killing beloved characters. Prepare yourself emotionally, as no one's survival is guaranteed.
Embrace the Pace: The books are dense and grow significantly longer as the series progresses. Read at a comfortable pace to absorb the intricate details.
Use Online Resources: A quick search for family trees and maps of Westeros can be an invaluable companion to your reading experience.
Prepare for Mature Content: The series deals with adult themes, including graphic violence, sexual content, and morally ambiguous situations.
3. The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan
For readers craving an epic of truly immense scope, The Wheel of Time is an essential series. Robert Jordan, later completed by Brandon Sanderson, created a sprawling fourteen-book saga that redefined the scale of modern fantasy. The story begins in the secluded village of Emond's Field, where the lives of three young men, Rand al'Thor, Mat Cauthon, and Perrin Aybara, are irrevocably changed by the arrival of a mysterious Aes Sedai. They soon discover that one of them is the Dragon Reborn, a prophesied figure destined to either save the world from the Dark One or break it completely.
Why It's a Must-Read
The Wheel of Time is renowned for its incredibly detailed magic system, known as the One Power, and its cyclical concept of history where ages come and go, leaving behind legends that fade to myth. Jordan masterfully blends elements from various world mythologies and philosophies, creating a rich and complex tapestry of cultures, prophecies, and political intrigue. The character development is staggering; protagonists who start as simple villagers grow into leaders, generals, and kings over thousands of pages. Its sheer size and ambition make it one of the cornerstones of the epic fantasy genre and a truly rewarding reading experience for those willing to commit.
Getting the Most Out of the Pattern
Navigating a series this massive can be daunting, but these tips will help you enjoy the journey:
Pace Yourself: With fourteen lengthy novels, burnout is a real risk. Don't be afraid to take breaks between books to read something shorter and refresh your mind.
Utilize Online Resources: The series has a massive cast and intricate plot. If you need a refresher, chapter summaries on fan wikis can be invaluable, but be wary of spoilers.
Embrace the Appendices: Each book contains a glossary of terms, characters, and places. Referring to it often will help you keep track of the ever-expanding world.
Consider the Audiobooks: The audiobooks, narrated by Michael Kramer and Kate Reading, are widely acclaimed and can make the denser sections of the narrative more digestible and engaging.
Given the series' length and the prequel novel, understanding the proper sequence is vital. You can discover the full Wheel of Time reading order to ensure you experience the story as intended.
4. Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling
A cultural phenomenon that defined a generation, J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series is more than just a story; it's an entryway into the magical world for readers of all ages. The seven-book series follows the life of a young, orphaned boy who discovers on his eleventh birthday that he is a wizard. It chronicles his education at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and his epic struggle against the dark wizard Lord Voldemort, who murdered his parents and seeks to conquer the wizarding world.
Why It's a Must-Read
Harry Potter excels as a coming-of-age story wrapped in a spellbinding fantasy adventure. The series masterfully grows with its reader, evolving from a whimsical children's book into a complex and emotionally resonant narrative that explores themes of friendship, prejudice, courage, and loss. Its accessibility makes it a perfect gateway into the fantasy genre for new readers, while its intricate plotting and rich character development offer plenty for seasoned fans to appreciate. The series' massive success, including becoming the best-selling book series in history and spawning a $7.7 billion film franchise, is a testament to its universal appeal and timeless magic.
Getting the Most Out of the Wizarding World
To fully immerse yourself in Harry's journey from the Dursleys' cupboard to the final battle of Hogwarts, consider these tips:
Read in Publication Order: The series is built on sequential character development and plot reveals. Reading them in order is essential to experience the story as intended.
Don't Skip the 'Slower' Books: Some entries may feel less action-packed, but they are crucial for world-building and laying the groundwork for major future events.
Engage with the Mysteries: Each book presents its own central mystery. Try to piece together the clues alongside Harry, Ron, and Hermione for a more interactive experience.
Enjoy Both Books and Films: The films are a fantastic visual companion, but the books offer significantly more depth, backstory, and character nuance. Experiencing both provides the complete picture of this beloved world.
5. The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson
For readers seeking a modern epic fantasy of staggering scope, Brandon Sanderson's The Stormlight Archive is an essential series. Set on the storm-swept world of Roshar, the story follows a diverse cast of characters, including a tormented soldier named Kaladin, a fractured scholar named Shallan, and a highprince named Dalinar. As an ancient, otherworldly threat returns, they rediscover the lost powers of the Knights Radiant and grapple with secrets that could shatter their civilization. This is a series defined by intricate magic, colossal battles, and deeply human struggles.
Why It's a Must-Read
Brandon Sanderson is a master of systemized magic, and The Stormlight Archive showcases his talent at its peak. The "hard" magic systems, based on Stormlight and its various applications, are governed by explicit rules that make them feel scientific and logical, allowing for incredible creativity in action sequences. The world-building is equally impressive, featuring unique flora, fauna, and cultures shaped by the planet's violent highstorms. Beyond the epic scale, the series is celebrated for its powerful and honest explorations of mental health, trauma, and redemption. Each character’s personal journey is as compelling as the overarching plot, making it one of the best fantasy series to read for those who value both intricate plotting and profound character development.
Getting the Most Out of Roshar
This massive series can be intimidating, but these tips will help you navigate its depths and fully appreciate Sanderson's vision:
Be Patient with the Buildup: Each book is huge and features a slow-burn narrative that culminates in an explosive climax known as the "Sanderlanche." Trust the process; the payoff is always worth it.
Use Online Resources: Don't be afraid to consult resources like the Coppermind Wiki for refreshers on characters, magic, or world details. Just be mindful of spoilers for books you haven't read yet.
Embrace the Interludes: The interludes introduce different characters and perspectives from across Roshar. While they may seem disconnected, they provide crucial context and often tie into the main plot in surprising ways.
Consider the Cosmere: This series is part of Sanderson's larger connected universe, the Cosmere. While not required, reading other Cosmere works (like Mistborn) can reveal hidden connections and enhance the experience.
As this is just one part of a much larger universe, understanding the author’s complete bibliography is helpful. To explore all of Sanderson's interconnected works, you can find a complete guide to the Brandon Sanderson book order.
6. The First Law Trilogy by Joe Abercrombie
For readers who prefer their fantasy with a heavy dose of grit, cynicism, and dark humor, Joe Abercrombie's The First Law Trilogy is an essential read. This series masterfully deconstructs the classic fantasy tropes of noble heroes and clear-cut morality. The story follows the grimly interconnected lives of three unforgettable characters: Logen Ninefingers, an infamous barbarian weary of his bloody past; Jezal dan Luthar, a vain and preening nobleman; and Sand dan Glokta, a crippled torturer whose inner monologue is as sharp as his instruments.
Why It's a Must-Read
Abercrombie is a master of character-driven storytelling. While the plot involves war, magic, and political intrigue, the true heart of the series lies in its deeply flawed, morally ambiguous, and surprisingly relatable protagonists. The First Law helped define the modern grimdark subgenre, proving that fantasy could be brutal, realistic, and psychologically complex without sacrificing compelling narrative. Its influence is evident in the works of authors like Mark Lawrence and Brian Staveley. The series is celebrated for its razor-sharp dialogue, visceral action sequences, and a pervasive sense of black humor that cuts through even the bleakest moments.
Getting the Most Out of the Circle of the World
To fully immerse yourself in Abercrombie's brutal and brilliant universe, consider these suggestions for your reading experience:
Embrace Moral Ambiguity: Don't search for traditional heroes or villains here. The series excels at showing the messy, gray areas of human nature, so prepare for characters who consistently defy expectations.
Appreciate the Dark Humor: Abercrombie's wit is one of the series' greatest strengths. The cynical observations, particularly from Glokta, provide levity and a unique perspective on the grim events unfolding.
Listen to the Audiobooks: Steven Pacey's narration of the series is widely regarded as one of the best audiobook performances of all time. He brings each character to life with a distinct and memorable voice, elevating the entire experience.
Continue with the Standalones: The initial trilogy is just the beginning. Abercrombie has written several standalone novels and a follow-up trilogy set in the same world that expand the lore and are considered by many to be even better than the original.
For readers ready to dive into this dark and character-focused world, the journey starts with the main trilogy. To see how the standalone novels fit into the timeline, you can explore a complete guide to The First Law reading order.
7. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
A cornerstone of children's literature and a beloved classic, C.S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia is one of the most enchanting portal fantasies ever written. The series whisks readers away from wartime England into the magical land of Narnia, a world of talking beasts, mythological creatures, and epic battles. Each book follows different children, such as the Pevensie siblings, on their adventures as they discover Narnia and their role in its fate, guided by the noble lion, Aslan. The series masterfully blends wonder and allegory into a timeless narrative.
Why It's a Must-Read
The Chronicles of Narnia has captivated generations with its accessible yet profound storytelling. Lewis, a contemporary and friend of Tolkien, created a world that is less about intricate lore and more about moral and spiritual exploration. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to operate on multiple levels; it's a thrilling adventure for young readers and a deep Christian allegory for adults. This layering gives the series remarkable re-readability, with new meanings revealing themselves over time. The books have had a profound influence, popularizing the "portal fantasy" subgenre and proving that some of the best fantasy series can be both simple in prose and complex in theme.
Getting the Most Out of Narnia
To fully immerse yourself in Lewis's magical creation, consider these tips for your reading journey:
Choose Your Reading Order: There's a long-standing debate between reading in publication order (starting with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe) or chronological order (starting with The Magician's Nephew). Publication order preserves the original sense of discovery, which many readers prefer.
Embrace the Allegory: While not required for enjoyment, exploring the Christian allegorical elements can add a rich layer of meaning to the characters and events, particularly regarding Aslan's journey.
Enjoy Each Book as a Standalone: While part of a larger saga, most of the books tell a self-contained story with a distinct tone, from creation myths to sea-faring adventures.
Perfect for Reading Aloud: The clear, concise prose and episodic chapters make this an ideal series to share with family, bringing the magic of Narnia to life for a new generation.
8. The Kingkiller Chronicle by Patrick Rothfuss
Celebrated for its lyrical prose and intricate storytelling, Patrick Rothfuss's The Kingkiller Chronicle is a modern masterpiece. The series is presented as an autobiography, with the legendary figure Kvothe recounting his life story to a scribe named Chronicler over the course of three days. Set in the world of Temerant, the narrative weaves together Kvothe's journey from a gifted young boy in a troupe of traveling performers to a notorious arcanist, musician, and adventurer, all while hunting the mysterious Chandrian who murdered his family.
Why It's a Must-Read
The series stands out for the sheer beauty of its writing. Rothfuss’s prose is often compared to poetry, elevating the narrative beyond a simple adventure into a rich, emotional experience. The magic system, based on concepts like Sympathy and Naming, is both intellectual and intuitive, feeling less like a set of rules and more like a fundamental law of the universe. The story is a masterful blend of mystery, music, magic, and coming-of-age, creating a compelling tale that has captivated millions. Its influence is seen in the renewed focus on prose quality within the fantasy genre, and it has won multiple prestigious awards since its debut.
Getting the Most Out of Temerant
To fully immerse yourself in Kvothe's tale, keep the following in mind as you embark on what many consider one of the best fantasy series to read:
Savor the Prose: This isn't a series to rush through. Take your time to appreciate the language, the clever wordplay, and the musicality of the writing.
Pay Attention to the Frame Story: The interactions between Kvothe, Chronicler, and Bast in the present day are just as important as the story being told. Look for clues and inconsistencies in Kvothe's narration.
Embrace the Unanswered Questions: The series is built on layers of mystery. Part of the enjoyment comes from formulating theories about the Chandrian, the Amyr, and the truth behind Kvothe's legend.
Be Aware of Its Status: The third and final book of the trilogy is not yet released. It's best to go into the series knowing it is currently incomplete, focusing on the incredible journey of the first two books.
For those eager to dive into this beautifully written world, understanding the series' components is the first step. To see how the main books and novellas fit together, you can explore a complete guide to The Kingkiller Chronicle books in order.
9. The Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson
For readers craving unparalleled scale and complexity, Steven Erikson's The Malazan Book of the Fallen is an essential, albeit challenging, fantasy series. This ten-book epic is not a single, linear story but a vast mosaic of intertwined narratives spanning millennia, continents, and casts of hundreds. The series chronicles the ambitions and consequences of the sprawling Malazan Empire, all set within a world where ancient gods, ascendants, and powerful mages meddle directly in the affairs of mortals.
Why It's a Must-Read
Erikson, an archaeologist and anthropologist, applies his academic background to craft a world with staggering historical depth and cultural realism. The series subverts many classic fantasy tropes, presenting morally gray characters and exploring profound philosophical themes of compassion, suffering, and civilization's cyclical nature. Its magic system is mysterious and untamed, and the sheer scope is breathtaking. Reading Malazan is less like following a story and more like excavating a lost history, piece by incredible piece. It stands as one of fantasy's most ambitious and rewarding undertakings, an experience unlike any other.
Getting the Most Out of the Malazan World
This series is famously dense, but these tips can help you navigate its rich complexities and make it one of the most fulfilling reading experiences you can have:
Embrace the Confusion: Erikson drops you into the world with very little hand-holding. Trust the process; key information will be revealed over time.
Use Online Resources: The fan-maintained Malazan Wiki and the Tor.com Reread of the Fallen are invaluable for keeping track of characters, events, and lore. Be mindful of spoilers.
Don't Obsess Over Details: You are not expected to remember every single name or historical event on the first read. Focus on the immediate character arcs and emotional core of the story.
Be Patient: The payoffs in this series are monumental, often building over several books. The emotional and narrative resolutions are well worth the initial investment.
Top 9 Fantasy Series Comparison
| Series | Implementation Complexity | Resource Requirements | Expected Outcomes | Ideal Use Cases | Key Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Lord of the Rings | Moderate: rich languages, extensive lore | High: lengthy reading, detailed appendices | Immersive epic journey, classic fantasy themes | Readers seeking foundational high fantasy | Timeless world-building, lyrical prose |
| A Song of Ice and Fire | High: multiple POVs, complex politics | High: many books, large cast, mature content | Intense, gritty political fantasy | Fans of dark, mature, unpredictable plots | Subverts tropes, rich character development |
| The Wheel of Time | Very High: 14 books, complex magic and lore | Very High: long commitment, detailed world | Epic scope with complete story | Long-term epic fantasy readers | Unique magic system, satisfying conclusion |
| Harry Potter | Low-Moderate: accessible narrative | Moderate: 7 books, broad age range | Coming-of-age, magical education | Beginners and all-ages readers | Accessible, strong themes, complete arc |
| The Stormlight Archive | High: scientific magic, multiple POVs | High: long volumes, complex systems | Deep worldbuilding, philosophical themes | Readers of modern epic fantasy | Innovative magic, character depth |
| The First Law Trilogy | Moderate: grimdark tone, character driven | Moderate: 3 books plus standalones | Dark, subversive fantasy with humor | Fans of grimdark and antiheroes | Sharp dialogue, subversion of fantasy tropes |
| The Chronicles of Narnia | Low: simple prose, episodic adventures | Low: 7 shorter books | Accessible allegorical fantasy | Children and family reading | Timeless appeal, rich allegory |
| The Kingkiller Chronicle | Moderate: lyrical prose, frame narrative | Moderate: 2 published books, series incomplete | Beautiful prose, mystery-focused storytelling | Readers valuing prose and storytelling | Exceptional style and storytelling structure |
| The Malazan Book of the Fallen | Very High: complex, philosophical, large scale | Very High: 10 books, dense academic prose | Multifaceted, intellectual epic | Experienced fantasy readers | Ambitious scope, rich thematic depth |
Choosing Your Portal to a New World
You have reached the end of this grand tour, a journey through nine of the most monumental sagas in fantasy literature. We have traversed the foundational landscapes of Tolkien's Middle-earth, navigated the treacherous political courts of Westeros, and stood against the coming Desolation in Roshar. Each series on this list represents a pinnacle of world-building, character development, and narrative artistry. They are more than just stories; they are entire universes waiting to be discovered.
The purpose of this guide was not merely to list the best fantasy series to read, but to provide a map for your own personal adventure. Whether you are a seasoned veteran of epic quests or a newcomer standing at the threshold of your first magical portal, the perfect story is waiting for you. The diversity here is a testament to the genre's incredible breadth and power to explore the human condition through extraordinary circumstances.
From Classic Quests to Modern Morality
Reflecting on our journey, several key themes emerge that define these masterworks. The eternal struggle between good and evil, a concept crystallized by Tolkien and Lewis, serves as the bedrock for many. Yet, as we moved through the list, we saw how that classic dichotomy has been challenged and subverted.
Moral Complexity: Authors like George R.R. Martin and Joe Abercrombie have blurred the lines, presenting us with a world painted in shades of grey. In their stories, heroes are flawed, villains have sympathetic motivations, and victory often comes at a terrible cost.
Intricate Magic Systems: The genre has evolved from the soft, mysterious magic of The Lord of the Rings to the hard, rule-based systems of Brandon Sanderson's Cosmere. The 'how' of magic has become as important as the 'what', adding a layer of scientific and philosophical depth that rewards attentive readers.
Epic Scale: From the 14-volume expanse of The Wheel of Time to the sprawling, continent-spanning history of The Malazan Book of the Fallen, these series demonstrate a commitment to scale that is unmatched in other literary genres. They are not weekend reads; they are long-term companions.
Your Next Steps into the Fantastic
So, where do you begin? The sheer volume of pages and the intricate timelines can seem daunting. The key is to match a series to your current reading mood and commitment level. Don't let the size of a series intimidate you; think of it as a promise of a long and rewarding experience.
Here’s a practical approach to selecting your next epic read:
- Identify Your Core Interest: Are you searching for a classic, hopeful adventure (The Lord of the Rings, The Chronicles of Narnia)? Or are you in the mood for a dark, gritty tale with morally ambiguous characters (A Song of Ice and Fire, The First Law)? Perhaps an intricate, puzzle-box world with a complex magic system is what you crave (The Stormlight Archive, The Wheel of Time).
- Consider the Commitment: A trilogy like The First Law is a much smaller undertaking than the ten massive tomes of Malazan Book of the Fallen. Be realistic about the time you can dedicate. Starting with a completed or shorter series can provide a sense of accomplishment and build momentum for a larger one.
- Embrace the Journey: Whichever portal you choose, remember that the true magic of these series lies in the journey itself. It’s about the characters you will come to love (and mourn), the worlds you will inhabit, and the ideas that will linger in your mind long after the final page is turned.
Ultimately, the 'best' fantasy series is a deeply personal choice. It is the one whose world feels like home, whose characters feel like friends, and whose story resonates with your own heart. This list is your starting point, a curated collection of gateways. Now, the choice is yours. Pick your path, open the book, and prepare to be transported.
Ready to dive into one of these epic sagas but worried about missing a prequel, novella, or side story? Books In Order provides the most accurate and comprehensive reading lists, ensuring you experience every series exactly as the author intended. Visit Books In Order to find the correct reading sequence for your next adventure and start your journey with confidence.
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