Best Fantasy Series
Do you love those fantasy novels with many kingdoms, protagonists, politics,
and cultures? Do you like the epic struggles between small bands of heroes against
impossible evil? Do you eagerly follow the growing pains of the coming-of-age hero as he (or she) finds greatness? Then you want to check this list of the best fantasy series ever written.
It's hard to select series that are NOT epic fantasy, since most of the series released these days, are. In this list, I wanted to bring you the top 25 best fantasy series from a number of different fantasy subgenres. I've based my picks on how good the series are as well as how influential they have been on the fantasy genre as a whole.
Like any "Best" list, you can't please everyone with your picks, so don't take it personally if your favorite series is not listed on the list. Rest assured I've spent a lot of time deciding what should be included and excluded.
I've also put together a list of the Best Epic Fantasy Series for those of you who are ONLY looking for epic fantasy books.
April 2011 note: I've completely updated the Best Fantasy Series with a ton of new books. I've expanded it to a Top 25. It's a far different, more well rounded list now.
#1: A Game of Thrones (George R.R. Martin)
Comments (243)
This series tops the Top 25 Best Fantasy Books and with good reason and is my pick for the best fantasy series. Martin shattered the fantasy mold and created something completely new. Indeed, fantasy books will never be the same. The world created is a dark one: children are made slaves, brutal graphic wars are fought, heroes are slain and villain are crowned king, swearing and sex is rampant, and all that's ugly about the world is flung in your face.
This is a world where heroes are not invincible and villains are just as likely to emerge victorious. This type of gritty fantasy is not for everyone. Those faint of heart who wish to sail in safer fantasy waters would do well to look elsewhere: this is a no-holds-barred look at a fantasy medieval world; if lingering in padded fantasy worlds where sex is suspiciously absent, violence treated as a romantic comedy, and dashing, good-looking heroes always win, this fantasy may not be for you. But for those of a steady heart who want an absolutely addicting decent into a medieval realm torn asunder, where struggling heroes may or may not win, where magic is as mysterious as it is ephemeral, where the battles are so vivid you can hear the clash of steel and the whine of dying horses, where an epic story spans the vastness of continents, then heed the siren call of A Song of Ice and Fire.
A Song of Ice and Fire is a starkly real
treatment of the horror of war and conquest of lands, of rape and
pillage and revenge, and man's ultimate fight against extinction. So if
you have what it takes, read this series. I guarantee your reading
world will never be the same.
Similar recommendations:
If you like Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire saga, try David Anthony Durham's Acacia
It's a given that you should read Mazalan Book of the Fallen for some epic fantasy that will blow your socks off. And for a solid gritty fantasy about a company of soldiers who work for evil, give Glen Cook's Black Company a read.
If you want MORE similar recommendations, then go here.
#2: The Malazan Book of the Fallen (Steven Erikson)
Comments (107)
One of the best epic fantasy series currently out there. No boy-finds-magic-
sword-and-defeats-dark-wizard story here. Malazan Book of the Fallen is
complex creation, with an absolutely huge cast of characters and stories that
span thousands of pages. The stories encompassed in each book are like pieces
of a puzzle -- each piece is a small picture of the story, but as you progress
through the books a spectacular picture emerges. It takes a bit of work to
wrap yourself around the story, however. Those used to the standard epic
fantasy tale my find themselves bewildered half way through the first book.
The strange world, enigmatic characters, and vastness of the story can be
confusing, BUT preserver and the Malazan Book of the Fallen becomes something
incredible. By the time you are a couple books into the series, you'll be
hopelessly addicted.
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Novels of the Malazan Empire   |
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Malazan Novellas
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Similar recommendations:
Similar recommendations: George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire saga also features an epic scope and the grey characterization
that Erickson so loves. Martin's work is smaller is scale though and tends to be more focused, plot wise. You can also try Scott R. Baker's The Darkness That Comes Before saga, which is an alternative history saga, were the Roman Empire has never fallen and magic works. Oath of Empires is epic,
featuring massive magical battles and huge opposing armies (Persian and Roman) clashing so hard you can hear the horses scream. Also
give James Barclay's The Cry of the Newborn a whirl which is similar in style and content (though less epic) to Erickson.
It's an example of a Fantasy military fiction done right. Barclay also knows how to write damn good battles scenes, giving even Erikson
a run for his money. Also give David Anthony Durham a try. His recent novel, Acacia, is a fantastic read -- big on the epic battles
and gritty dark realism of Erickson and Martin. At it's core, The Malazan Book of the Fallen is a military
fantasy; you might want to read Glen Cook's classic Black Company series. It's dark, gritty, and has a hell of a lot of battles. It's
the book that has forever defined military fantasy.
#3: Chronicles of Amber (Roger Zelazny)
Book Flap Description
Witness the titanic battle for supremacy waged on Earth, in the Courts of Chaos, and on a magical world of mystery, adventure, and romance.
This is one series that people seem to brush over in favor of all the "modern" stuff. Big mistake. Amber's a classic series that's been around for a few decades now. It's a different kind of fantasy, but it doesn't follow the standard "epic" fantasy conventions. This makes it a breath of fresh air to read.
What makes this series "better" than all the other stuff? Well Amber is bay far one of the most unique and utterly fascinating fantasy worlds, outside of Tolkien. The world created by Zelazny is one where magic and science rule, where illusions and reality blend together. If you've read science fiction, you'll be familiar with the basic premise: the world is made up of parallel universes, each of these universes a reflection of the original world, a city called Amber. Everything is but a pale shadow of Amber. Earth is but a shadow.
Into this mix throw in the squabbling princes and princesses of Amber. Only the Royal blood of Amber can move through the different worlds freely. And many of the siblings don't get along...
All in all, Amber is a fascinating fantasy world that you will want to explore. It's hands down better than most of the fantasy series on the market right now.
#4: Lord of the Rings (J.R.R Tolkien)
Comments (52)
Tolkien's spent his life writing in the Lord of the Rings world. Tolkien pretty much has four "novel" type stories set in middle earth. I have listed them below in chronological order. Click on the book picture to get an Amazon book description. The Silmarillion is a prequel to the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings. It details the entire history of Middle Earth, how it was formed, describes the history of the First, Second, and Third ages. If you want to really know the history of Middle Earth, and read some of the old tales, read the Silmarillion -- it's sort of the pre-story of the Lord of the Rings, a history of Middle Earth. Children of Hurin is Tolkien's old "new" novel that was recently released by his son, Christopher Tolkien. Christopher edited and completed one of Tolkien's unpublished works. It's a greatly expanded version of Chapter XXI of The Silmarillion, "Of Turin Turambar." and takes place long long before the Hobbit. The Hobbit is the precursor to The Lord of the Rings and pretty much a must read if you like Lord of the Rings. If you have never read Lord of the Rings, I suggest starting with the Hobbit then move on to Lord of the Rings. You can then read the Silmarillion and Children of Hurin
Similar Recommendations
What can I possibly recommend if you like Lord of the Rings? It's like trying to suggest steak when a person says they like beef.
Maybe they like hamburger, maybe they like roast beef; the bottom line is that they could like any type of beef dish! If you like
Lord of the Rings, you might like any Fantasy book, for Lord of the Rings is the father of all Fantasy. Regardless, I'll try and suggest a
couple books based off the "feel" of Lord of the Rings.
Tolkien has always been about the world in which his characters live, never about the characters which live in his world. He created a world
full of myth and legend, starkly real and full of mystery. There is always some strange power deep in a mountain, or some magical glade in
the heart of a forest. There are worlds deep in the world, and worlds high in the heavens. It's a land full
of wonder, a world too large to explore; it's an earth that still has mysteries and unknown lands.
There are several authors who recreate this type of world -- but with stronger characters and more meaningful relationships. Tolkien's characters
were always too perfect, too evil; their motivations are at best unclear and at worst, unrealistic.
If you like Tolkien, read The Wheel of Time by Jordan. This man has claimed Tolkien's world building mantle: he's created a massive world,
richly developed cultures, and well-defined magic system. When you read Jordan, you explore an ancient world full of secrets. I have to throw
out a disclaimer though: Wheel of Time is not perfect; Jordan becomes lost in his own world as it grows too big even for him; (some of) his
characters devolve into caricatures, and Jordan's handling of romance between characters is puerile to say the least. However, the books are still
great fun, and if you like Tolkien's style, Jordan is a must read.
If you want a book that's like Lord of the Rings but longer, has strong female characters, and very strong characterization (better than Jordan's),
read Tad Williams' Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn saga.
If you want the beautiful, almost lyrical writing of Tolkien and a world in which magic is present but still a grand mystery
(i.e. not every character is throwing around magic like kids throwing sand at a beach), Sean Russell's The Swans' War is the answer.
Ursula Le Guin's Earthsea Cycle
For a 12th century version of Middle Earth set in a stark (English) European landscape that's as cold as the world is gritty and brutal, read
George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire saga tale. If you want to see some of Tolkien's conventions turned on their heads and enjoy a noir
high fantasy tale with starkly realized characters, read Joe Abercrombie's The First Law trilogy.
#5: The Long Price Quartet (Daniel Abraham)
This is NOT your standard epic fantasy. But oh man, there's a lot to love about this one. If you want to take a much needed break from the standard fantasy clichés, The Long Price Quartet should be your next stop. Even if you ONLY like standard fantasy, still read this gem of a series. It's widely being hailed as a modern masterpiece.
This is a series with an incredibly strong plot; really, once you get hooked at the start, you're going to have to just finish all the books to see how everything get's wrapped up (and all four books have been completed).
Abraham's characters are living and breathing creatures. There are no characters introduced just to move along the plot. It's a rare thing to get so involved with the characters you read about. But Abraham does just that -- all of the characters are sympathetic, with flaws and strengths and personalities.
So, toss away all that boring epic fantasy and read a REAL fantasy series that's just about a cut above everything else out there right now. Fans of this series will also be delighted to know that Abraham has released the first book in another series -- this one a standard epic fantasy (but with Abraham's trademark style, fantastic plot, and awesome characterization) which, should you find The Long Price Quartet not the type of fantasy for you, more palatable. It's called the Dragon and the Coin.
Daniel Abraham's Series
The Long Price Quartet
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The Dagger and the Coin (Very good!!)
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#6: The Wheel of Time (Robert Jordan)
Comments (188)
The Wheel of Time turns and Ages come and go, leaving memories that become legend.
Legend fades to myth, and even myth is long forgotten when the Age that gave it birth
returns again. In the Third Age, an Age of Prophecy, the World and Time themselves hang
in the balance. What was, what will be, and what is, may yet fall under the Shadow...
Despite the inevitable flood of protests I'll get by including this on the list,
Robert Jordan has really defined the modern epic fantasy genre. I've stated
it before, but I'll say it again: despite the problems and controversies of how
Jordan has handled the story (it's agreed that the first 5 books are pretty good,
the later 6 or so really lose track), this series is "the" epic fantasy series
of our generation. Robert Jordan has pretty much taken up the cloak that
Tolkien left and stretched out so wide the very seems threaten to tear. I can
confidently say that no other story is as large as WOT. Indeed, you'll need a
backpack to carry Jordan's entire story, literally. Those who like their
fantasy big, with dozens of realms, a huge cast of characters, and plenty of
magic, politics, and adventure, WOT delivers. This book defines what classic
epic fantasy is folks, for better or for worse. You will find peoples opinion
sharply divided about whether WOT has imploded under the too-many plot threads
of the story, but without a doubt, WOT is a seminal work of epic fantasy and
is a must-read book for every epic fantasy lover. If you are looking for new
variations on the epic fantasy genre, there are several authors and books who
have done some interesting things, but if you want something "classic", the
Wheel of Time is the best you'll find.
Similar recommendations:
Give George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire saga a try.
It's a massive epic like Jordan's The Wheel of Time (but not as long), and it's universally
held in the highest esteem, a sort of paragon of what all Fantasy books should
strive to be. You thought those "Dragonlance" books were good? Feast on Martin for a
taste of what Fantasy books should be like. You might also try Tracy
Hickman & Margaret Weis's The Death Gate Cycle . A monolithic seven book saga that's
reminiscent of Jordan's style: heavy on the magic, tension and action, but unique
enough not to be a banal hack. Also try Michelle West's The Sun Sword , another
large epic fantasy saga (six books) that shares some similarities with Jordan's Wheel of Time. West's writing style is drastically different that Jordan's,
however -- far more subtle, and often ponderous. If you are an action freak, The Sun
Sword pacing will probably be a bit too slow for you. You might also try Raymond
E. Feist's Magician, as he writes in a style and flavor similar to Jordan
(heavy on politics, action, and magic). Jim Butcher's Codex Alera is also another
magic-packed, plot driven series you might like. It's got a really unique magic system and it's fantasy set in an alternate roman empire where magic works. Don't forget Dave Farland's The Runelords series -- action galore, the most unique magic system I've seen, and a pretty entertaining story.
#7: The Cold Fire Trilogy (C. S. Friedman)
Comments (18)| Community Book Review
Dark, epic fantasy that's really quite different than any other fantasy series out there -- a tasty recipe that combines the best of the horror, fantasy, and Gothic genres. This is one epic fantasy that stands wholly original, untainted by the scent of unoriginality present on most fantasy books released these days. Friedman creates a vivid and fascinating world, a world where human imagination actually has the power to create reality. Of course, the human psychic being what it is, the world is not one of paradise but rather a dark and sinister place; a place where man's own imagination has become an enemy. With a flawed anti-hero, compelling characters, and an outright fascinating world, this series delivers something special. I heartily recommend this superlative fantasy series.#8: The Farseer (Robin Hobb)
Comments (56)
If you are tired of fantasy with bland characters or infallible heroes, give The Farseer a read. Hobb is a master writer of characters that are brought to life with her pen. The Farseer is the story of Fritz Chivalry, a royal bastard. It's the story of his rise and fall, of his love and loss of love, of how he saved a travelled to magical lands, communed with wolves, and saved a kingdom from doom.
You won't find a story that will impact you more than The Farseer. If you want an emotional fantasy, The Farseer is about as good as it gets.
Hobb has written 3 trilogies set in the Farseer world, which are listed below (click on the appropriate image
to get an Amazon book description). The Tawny Man trilogy is a direct sequel to the Farseer trilogy.
Liveship Traders takes place in the same world as Tawny Man and Farseer, but in a different country. There
is one character present in Liveship Traders that is present in the other two trilogies.
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Liveship Traders trilogy     |
The Rainwild's Trilogy
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#9: The King Killer Chronicle (Patrick Rothfuss)
Comments (104)
The Name of the Wind is stunning work of imagination and storytelling triumph
and currently ranks very near the top of my Top 25 Best Fantasy List. I won't
bother trying to rehash why you should read it. Just do.
Two books have been released now and both are good (though some argue the second is not as good as the first, to which I agree).
So the author spends an enormous amount of time detailing the trivialities of the protagonist's life. So it can take a long time for something, anything to happen.
Despite the flaws with this series, I don't think there is another fantasy series out there where you get into the head of the protagonist as much as you do in the King Killer Chronicles. From the start to the end of each book, you're taken along on an adventure you don't want to end. This is one of the most enjoyable series out there folks. Do yourself a big favor and read it.
Similar Recommendations
If you like The Name of the Wind, you might like Robin Hobb's The Farseer Trilogy . Though the authors have a different style and
radically different plots, both authors really delve deep into the mind of the protagonist. You really get
to know the hero. Both stories are about the rise of a no-name boy into something great.
#10: Chronicles of Narnia (C. S. Lewis)
Nearly half a century ago, fantasy was dividing into two fantasy worlds: Tolkien's Lord of the Rings and C.S. Lewis' Chronicles of Narnia. Narnia has entertaining generations of children and continue to do so even to this day.
Those who dislike books written in heavy allegory, especially heavy religious allegory, it's best to avoid this series -- you're going to get upset. However, above the layer of allegory is a fantastic tale of magic and adventure. Narnia may not be as complicated as the new generation of fantasy, but as an old classic that's made it's mark for decades, it should be read -- if only to your children at night.
#11: The Dark Tower (Steven King)
Epic Dark Fantasy in the classic western tradition. This is Steven King's Magnus Opus, a series that's taken him decades to finish. In this huge series, King writes about "worlds other than these." It's a dark journey through a bizarre landscape with equally strange characters. It's a journey through space and time, through worlds not our own in a quest to protect the most precious thing in the universe.
#12: Chronicles of Thomas Covenant (Stephen R. Donaldson)
Comments (47)
He called himself Thomas Covenant the Unbeliever because he dared not believe in the strange alternate world in which he suddenly found himself. Yet he was tempted to believe, to fight for the Land, to be the reincarnation of its greatest hero....
Great epic fantasy that breaks out and does something different. Covenant
contains many of the classic fantasy conventions: a quest, a hero, and a
magical talisman. But the similarities end here. The protagonist, Covenant, is
through and through an anti-hero. This series is one series that provokes the reader's passions: either fanatical love for the series or maniacal hatred for it.
Fantasy books often feature absolutely altruistic heroes. But a hero Covenant is not: he's a flawed man who struggles with vices, a man who's thrown into a confusing situation. He's selfish, stubborn, and does some despicable deeds. More than anything, it is these characteristics that seem to upset people who read the first book then declare Thomas Covenant the worst fantasy series ever. Sorry folks, you're not "getting" the series.
The story of Covenant is the story of a
flawed man's transformation into something better. And along the way, he may
just end up saving The Land. If you want a complex story about a flawed man
forced to become a hero, The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant delivers. It's a
fantasy series that has remained unique over the twenty years that its been
published. Millions have read it and loved it. If this doesn't move you to
read it, than nothing ever will. But if you haven't read it yet, do so your
missing out one of the most remarkable fantasy tales ever. And please, before you leave a comment trashing this series, read the ENTIRE series first.
Stephen Donaldson has three Thomas Covenant series: First Chronicles of Thomas Covenant, Second Chronicles of Thomas Covenant, and
the recent series, the Last Chronicles of Thomas Covenant. Each series is chronological and follows
the exploits of Thomas Covenant. I've listed the series by chronological order. Click on the pictures to
read the amazon descriptions.
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Similar recommendations:
If you like his Donaldson's first trilogy , then you should read his Covenant trilogies listed above.
His new trilogy (Last Chronicles ) is a riveting read that will please both old and new fans.
Thomas' old lover, Linden, returns to The Land, only to find it changed beyond recognition... And Thomas the Unbeliever? Read the books to find out!
If you like the characterization of Thomas Covenant, you may like Tad William's epic fantasy Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn saga which really follows
the transformation of the protagonist over the course of the series. Read Robin Hobb's The Farseer Trilogy for another story with
magnificent characterization set in a fantasy landscape (though Farseer is not exactly epic fantasy).
Donaldson is unique in fantasy
because his character is whole an whole an anti-hero instead of a hero. You may like George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire saga;
there are some detestable main characters (anti-hero types) that become more agreeable as the series progresses; You see a slow
evolution of these characters.
Donaldson also has a very interesting (and dark dark) Science Fiction saga (Gap) that you will like if you liked
the anti-hero aspect of Covenant.
#13: Earthsea Cycle (Ursula Le Guin)
Comments (14)
Book Flap Description
Ged was the greatest sorcerer in all Earthsea, but once he was called Sparrowhawk, a reckless youth, hungry for power and knowledge, who tampered with long-held secrets and loosed a terrible shadow upon the world. This is the tale of his testing, how he mastered the mighty words of power, tamed an ancient dragon, and crossed death's threshold to restore the balance.
A classic fantasy tale about the rise of a village boy the most famous wizard of an age, The Earthsea Cycle is a series that transcends the genre. The writing is lyrical and beautiful -- those who appreciate Tolkien's Middle Earth or Patricia McPhilip's RiddleMaster trilogy, will find themselves enthralled by the story of Ged, a simple boy who becomes much more. This series is roundly hailed as one of the great fantasy classics. It doesn't have all the bell's and whistles of the new generation of fantasy, but it's a classic tale that's told by a master storyteller. And it's a haunting tale that you will never forget.
Series listed by chronological order, from left to right. Click book image to see details. The first three four books follow the life of Ged. The fifth is a compilation of short
stories set in the Earthsea world. The sixth (The Other Wind) returns to the story of Ged and concludes the cycle.
Similar Recommendations
Similar recommendations: J.R.R.Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings . I also recommend Phillip K.
McKillip's wonderful Riddle-Master trilogy, which features similar prose and a similar,
though at the same time, very different, story. You might also try Sean Russell's The Swans' War .
#14: The Fionavar Tapestry (Guy Gavriel Kay)
It seems that most of the fantasy authors get paid by the world. The shoddy fantasy is a reflection of that fact. Some authors take pride in their work, and write...art. Guy Gavriel Kay is one such writer. He doesn't always write the most popular kinds of fantasy, but every book he writes is imbued with intelligence, wit, and a beautiful story.
The Fiovanar Tapestry is one of the most underrated fantasy series out there. The quality of the writing is a few miles above the norma standards. Kay IS a wordsmith, his writing is sometimes lyrical and always beautiful. His characters are crafted with care, and there's always a number of complex and interweaving plots. It's not uncommon for one sentence to foreshadow major events that happen hundreds of pages later. When you read Kay, you're missing out if you don't pay attention to every sentence. If you are looking for some fluff fantasy to skim over, I suggest you look at some other fantasy options. Kay writes books that are meant to be read -- every word and every sentence.
The Fionavar Tapestry is high fantasy, but it's probably a sort of epic fantasy you are not used to. Still, if you are looking for a character driven, realistically portrayed (as funny as that sounds) epic fantasy, I can't recommend anything better than this series.
#15: Black Company (Glen Cook)
Glen Cook pioneered the "gritty" epic fantasy before that sort of fantasy become the gold standard of today. Black Company is the name of a number of books that follow the happenings of The Black Company, a company of mercenaries who end up being employed to The White Lady. What makes this series different than all the other military fantasies out there is that their employee, The White Lady, would be the equivalent of Sauron It's a world where good and evil are not so defined, a world where doing evil is sometimes good and doing good is sometimes evil. It's also a rousing military tale that will keep you on the edge of your feet.
There are a number of books, but I recommend the (best) Books of the North (the first three books) followed by the Books of the South. The series goes down hill after that. But the first three books are stunning.
#16: Discworld (Terry Pratchett)
If you want a different sort of fantasy -- funny fantasy as it's called, Terry Pratchett can't be beaten for a good laugh. Discworld cleverly parodies many of the standard fantasy conventions, often shining the light on just how stupid those conventions really are, when you think about them. Pratchett is a master at his craft: everything in the fantasy genre is fair game -- something that Pratchett takes full advantage of with his over 20 Discworld novels.
Start with The Color of Magic, which follows the tourist Twoflower and his bumbling, hapless wizard guide, Rincewind. It's a mad mad adventure that will have you gasping for breath. Pratchett IS the Douglas Adams of the fantasy world
#17: Elric of Melinbone (Michael Moorcock)
Elric is the prince of a dying race, a pale, morose champion of right despite the stacked cards against him. He's a physical weakling that needs to take drugs and relies on evil magic to survive. This puts him at odds with just about every other standard fantasy hero in the genre. In any other book, Elric would be closer to a villain than a hero. Elric may not be that "popular" these days (as evinced by the limited comments these books get on this website), but Elric has had a lasting influence on the entire fantasy genre.
#18: A Sword of Shadows (J.V. Jones)
Comments (13)
Similar recommendations:
Try George Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire saga, which features a brutal, gritty world set in an ice-filled milieu. Characters are realistic and Martin holds nothing back. It's a superlative epic fantasy saga.
You might also try J.V. Jones's other excellent Book of Words fantasy saga (starts with The Baker's Boy ).
#19: Memory, Sorrow, Thorn (Tad Williams)
Comments (23)
There are writers who like to write pulp and there are some writers who like to write fiction. Williams is the latter. Memory, Sorrow, Thorn is Tad Williams response to The Lord of the Rings. It's a slow, pedantic, and sometimes tedious tale about the young kitchen Scullion, Simon. Tad with his ponderous style, slowly brings the reader into his fictional world, and carefully, oh so carefully, weaves the threads of the plot together. Action doesn't happen right away -- maybe not even for hundreds of pages -- in a Williams novel. But what you get is a living, breathing world that you become part of.
Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn is NOT a series for everyone -- people either love or hate William's style, but a shoddily written, hack series this is NOT. So if you want a slow epic fantasy series with great characterization, an interesting world and realistically motivated villains, pick up this series.
Similar recommendations:
The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R Tolkien. Another book that shares some similarities is Michael A Stackpole's The DragonCrown War Cycle , which features an epic, black & white struggle, struggle between good and evil.
Also read William's new fantasy saga Shadowmarch.
Wonderful prose and a strong plot. I also recommend Tad Williams Otherland saga. It's science fiction, but there are quite a few fantasy elements too; it's kind of like the Matrix. Otherland is of the best Science Fiction books, IMHO.
#20: His Dark Materials (Phillip Pullman)
This dark fantasy trilogy is ostensibly a children's book, but there's a lot more to the story than a simple child's tale. The author incorporates ideas from Milton's Paradise Lost, a poem that's actually the basis of the entire novel. On the surface, it's the struggle of a young girl, together with her Daemon familiar, to find her place in the world through a series of grand, fantastical adventures. This sort of fantasy is NOT the simplistic Eragon with cardboard characters ripped straight from Star Wars and Tolkien. Nor is the fantasy a happy one. It's a dark look at the nature of things, of God, and of sacrifice. It's also a resounding rebuke to the religious powers of this world.
Ignoring all that "literary" stuff, the trilogy is also an amazing adventure and can be appreciated as such, if you have no wish to dig into the subtext. His Dark Materials is without a doubt on of the greatest fantasy series ever written.
#21: The First Law (Joe Abercrombie)
Comments (46)
Logen Ninefingers, infamous barbarian, has finally run out of luck. Caught in one feud too many, he's on the verge of becoming a dead barbarian - leaving nothing behind him but bad songs, dead friends, and a lot of happy enemies. Nobleman, dashing officer, and paragon of selfishness, Captain Jezal dan Luthar has nothing more dangerous in mind than fleecing his friends at cards and dreaming of glory in the fencing circle. But war is brewing, and on the battlefields of the frozen North they fight by altogether bloodier rules. Inquisitor Glokta, cripple turned torturer, would like nothing better than to see Jezal come home in a box. But then Glokta hates everyone: cutting treason out of the Union one confession at a time leaves little room for friendship. His latest trail of corpses may lead him right to the rotten heart of government, if he can stay alive long enough to follow it. Enter the wizard, Bayaz. A bald old man with a terrible temper and a pathetic assistant, he could be the First of the Magi, he could be a spectacular fraud, but whatever he is, he's about to make the lives of Logen, Jezal, and Glotka a whole lot more difficult.
Murderous conspiracies rise to the surface, old scores are ready to be settled, and the line between hero and villain is sharp enough to draw blood. Unpredictable, compelling, wickedly funny, and packed with unforgettable characters, The Blade Itself is noir fantasy with a real cutting edge.
This series throws epic fantasy on its head. On the surface we have all the conceits present in standard epic fantasy: a band of heroes, a Gandalf like wizard, a dark lord that much be defeated, etc. However, Abercrombie doesn't just twist these cliche fantasy conventions, he completely shatters them. If you're jaded from all the hackneyed epic fantasy crap out there, I highly suggest this incredible series. The writing? witty, the plot is original, and the characters are absolutely fascinating. Read it!
Similar recommendations:
The Blade Itself is a new style of Fantasy that's gaining swift momentum. The quality level demanded
of a good Fantasy novel is now very high. Readers are no longer satisfied with the dark lords versus
farm boy conceit. This new style of Fantasy takes the old staples of Fantasy and remakes them into something
more sophisticated. Strong, witty writing, dry humor, twisted plotting, and full of contrasting elements,
this new style makes for some intelligent reading. In this new world of noir Fantasy, shades of grey are the
new black and white. If you like this 21st century upgrade to the Fantasy genre, check out books by R. Scott Bakker, Brandon Sanderson , Scott Lynch , Joe Abercrombie, George R.R. Martin, and Steven Erickson .
#22: Riddle of Stars (Patricia A. McKillip)
A great series in the same style as Lord of the Rings and the Wizard of Earthsea. It's the story of the Riddle-Master of Hed, Morgan, who has an unknown destiny. You see, he himself is a riddle, a man born with three mysterious stars on his head. And to solve the greatest riddle of all -- himself -- he will change the world forever.
The book is one of the great modern fantasy trilogies. My recommendation is that you only read it when you don't have to work the next day -- it's very hard to put this series down once you start, so be prepared for a LONG reading session.
Similar recommendations:
J.R.R.Tolkien's A Lord of the Rings. I also recommend Ursula le Guin's classic The Earthsea trilogy,
which features the same lyrical writing style as McKillip, and the hauntingly beautiful tale of a young boy's journey
from boy to wizard. You might also try Sean Russell's The Swan's War trilogy which features lyrical prose, a pervading
sense of pathos and a world full of opportunity, were magic is as mysterious as it is dangerous.
#23: Abhorsen Trilogy (Garth Nix)
Comments (13)
A dark epic fantasy tale about a girl who will go into the land of the dead to save her father. It's an exciting adventure that's also scary. Nix is a talented author who has an excellent command of the English language -- and the man uses his abilities to great effect in this series.
While this series is classified as Young Adult fantasy, it can be read and appreciated by all ages. Just make sure you read this series with the lights dimmed -- you're going to be in for a good scare!
If you want a really chilling feeling, get the Audiobook version of the series. The narrator does a superb job and the tale seems even more scary.
Similar recommendations:
A classic series kids around the world have grown up reading is The Chronicles of Narnia
#24: The Darkness That Comes Before (R. Scott Bakker)
Comments (22)
In a world saturated by religious fanaticism, Maithanet, enigmatic spiritual leader of the Thousand Temples, declares a Holy War against the infidels. Ikurei Conphas, military genius and nephew to the Nansur Emperor, embarks on a war to conquer the known world in the name of his emperor...and himself. Drusas Achamian, spy and sorcerer of the mysterious northern sorceries, tormented by visions of the great apocalypse, seeks the promised one, the savior of mankind. Anasurimbor Kellhus, heir to the shattered northern kingdom, whose ruins now lay hidden in the deepest north, a place now desolate, home to only the No-Men. Gifted with extraordinary martial skills of hand and foot, and steering souls through the subtleties of word and expression, he slowly binds all - man and woman, emperor and slave - to his own mysterious ends. But the fate of men--even great men--may be cast into ruin. For in the deep north, the hand of the forgotten No-God stirs once more, and his servants tread the lands of men...
This is one of the more interesting modern fantasy series out there. It's epic fantasy, but not in the way you're used to. This fantasy is for those who want a combination of raw action and sharp philosophical insights. It's gritty, dark, bloody, and pretty damn smart.
Similar recommendations:
The vast scope of The Darkness That Comes Before is very redolent of Steven Erickson's Malazan Book of the Fallen saga, though the characters are less grey, and the story more focused.
Also try George R.R Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire saga, which is very epic and very gritty.
#25: Mistborn (Brandon Sanderson)
A magnificent novel of adventure, magic, and revenge with one of the most unique magic systems in the fantasy genre. Mistborn is the story of a band of wizards fighting a hopeless battle against an invincible mage tyrant. The interesting cast of characters and strong plotting makes this one book you have to pick up. Those looking for a strong epic fantasy series should check this one out.
I would, in a heartbeat, replace Mistborn with Sanderson's newest series, The Stormlight Archive. However, only the first book of that 10 book saga has been released.
Some More Recommendations
Here are some more great fantasy series recommendations. These were runner-ups for this list and are highly recommended reading, if you have not yet read them!
The Fencer Trilogy (K.J. Parker)
A different sort of fantasy that some people are starting to call economic fantasies. If you want a DIFFERENT kind of fantasy than the standard, read this one.
The Dagger and the Coin (Daniel Abraham)
This is Abraham's newest series and some people are saying it even rivals his The Long Price Quartet. This one's more of a standard fantasy, but oh my, it's fabulous.
The Left Hand of God (Paul Hoffman)
I'm not exactly sure what genre this fits in (probably Sci-Fi, but even that might be wrong), but I thought this was one of the best books released last year. It had mixed reviews, but man the book swept me away. Not sure what the series will be called, but there is a sequel coming out August 2011, so it's a series.
Harry Potter (J.K. Rowling)
No need to explain what this series is -- all but two people on earth have read it by now. Harry Potter starts off as a kid's tale, but slowly evolves into a darker tale of love and loss by the end of the series. While the author is not the best wordsmith, and the story itself is pretty simple, I can't deny the impact that JK Rowling has has on the fantasy genre -- and on millions of readers around the world. So on that note, I've included Harry Potter on this list.
Related Book Lists
If you are looking for more book recommendations, check these related lists out.
- Best Epic Fantasy Series
- Top 25 Best Fantasy Books
- Great Fantasy Books
- Good Fantasy Series
- Top 25 Best Stand Alone Fantasy Books
Do you have your own fantasy book recommendations? Do you disagree with this list? Do you agree? Share your comments below!
very nice list, i will definitely catch up with a few i did not read.
personal opinoin: a definite NO for RR martin series, it just does not cut it on the list, and to put it on 1st place is an added insult to the injury of reading his bookes.
another great series, THE RECLUCE SAGA by L.E.Modesitt jr.
it definitely deserves to be on this list
I'm 1/3 of the way through A Dance With Dragons and need a place to vent. OK, I know it is sacrilegious to complain about Martin. I eagerly awaited this book and took the time to reread the series so it would be fresh. I find myself grinding through it. Martin needs a good editor! Are they paying him by the word? Must he repeat himself every twenty pages. I can remember the story line. Must he wander off into tangents instead of writing the next chapter in Song of Ice and Fire. Who are all these new characters? Will I ever care about them? Is he tired of Jon, Arya, Tyrion, and Daenerys? Now we have a miraculously reincarnated lost Prince--deux ex machina. Has he a clue where this is all heading or is it just stream of consciousness drivel? I thought the books were about an ultimate evil restrained a by a great wall of ice and the human frailties and politics that threaten mankind's ability to face potential demise. In some ways, I viewed the series as a lens to illuminate our world's perch over the abyss of Armageddon, be it nuclear, biological or any of the hundreds of ways mankind has to destroy itself. The politics, religious conflict, personal hubris and venality were all reflected in modern headlines. This relevance made the series great. I want to know, "Does the world end in conflagration or by slow freezing?" A great book has to illuminate, captivate, educate and entertain. The writer must practice his craft by adhering to the theme, building a coherent plot, creating engaging characters and steadily pacing towards conclusion. Tyrion asks a hundred times, "Where do whores go?" Answer, the same place lazy authors go.
Martin is suffering from the same ailment Robert Jordan had whe Jordan was writing the middle books of his Wheel of time series. Aimless meandering, plot tangents and too many events/characters/premises.
Thanks for all the suggestions. I've read many of them, and might quibble over your ratings, but overall very nicely done.
There are several I'm not familiar with and plan to try, thank you again for the work and organization.
I can already see that you have extensive knowledge in the field of fantasy, however some of your choices to either omit or add to your list confuse me. I may not be a talented writer, and can see the delicate way Erikson wrote hos books; but the problem is that nothing is ever explained leaving everything confusing and as someone put it DRIBBLE. Another i see is you failed to add Terry Goodkinds series which in my own opinion anyway, was a fast paced read with likeable characters which you can relate to.
Ramble done 
Ummm, you're forgeting about Cinda Williams Chima. She is an amazing author and her books are outstanding. Nothing else that I have read (yet) even compares to her books.
very glad that you did not include terry goodkind's the sword of truth series.
quite possibly the worst dribbel i've ever read.
game of thrones, malazan and wheel of time are the greatest reads of all time folks.
I was going to ask you about Discworld. But i've found it here. It's great that you didn't left it out. Every book of this series is a good read.
really surprised u didn't add Raymond .E. Feist's books. he has written one of the best fantasy series around.
This couldn't be more true. It's definitely one of my favourites!
Check out his collaborations with Janny Wurst. Perfect blending of worlds and words.
Hello,
I stumbled upon your site during one of my late night scavenger hunts for good fantasay reads and I must say it was quite helpful. I am particularly a fan of this list. It has many books that I am currently addicted to (Martin, Rofus, Jordan etc) and many that I have devoured already (Sanderson, Erikson, Amber, Cook etc). It has also given me a couple of really good suggestions (most of the ones in the top ten I haven’t read I plan to check out).
There are a few books I think you should think about reading if you haven’t already:
1. Kushiel Series by Jacqueline Carey
2. Night Angel Trilogy Brent Weeks
3. Belgariad & Mallorean by David Eddings
In my opinion these are authors that need a bit more recognition
Thanks, and keep up the great work.
also by brent weeks Black Prism in the Lightbringer series...
This list has given me plenty of ideas to catch up with, but wanted to mention my favourite epic, "Crown of Stars" 7 book saga by Kate Elliott. I couldn't put it down and am just starting again for the 3rd time.
Megan whalen turner's queens thief series
How the hell is Malazan 2nd to Martin, Malazan book of the fallen wipes the floor with game of thrones.
I having got a problem with game of thrones, but it not that good.
Secondly, wtf is the darkness that came before doing all the way down in 24th, it better than Narnia and dark materials, which are kids book.
Thirldy, where is Terry Brooks and Voyage of the Jerle Shannara.
But other than these it a pretty good list of the best Fantasy out there.
Firstly, pull your head out of Martin's ass. We get that you loved the series, and I agree that Game of Thrones is a great book (like most series it went down-hill in the latter books), but that doesn't mean that you should recommend it as a "similar read" for every other book on this list. By the way, how can you claim a series is the top fantasy series ever, when none of the books in the series won a Hugo or a Nebula?
And where is Raymond Feist? Terry Goodkind? Not to mention Terry Brooks? Brooks put the Fantasy genre on the radar, being the first fantasy author to have a New York Times Bestseller, and he has had at least 22 novels make the N.Y. Times bestseller list.
Lastly, Conan? Seriously...no Conan? Not even mentioned in any comments? Wow...
Hi fellow Drew,
For Conan see might I suggest you click on Sword and Sorcery. As are gracious host has categorized the genera's of fantasy. You might find this top 25 list more to your liking
I have read dark tower and his dark materials but none of the 'top 3'
I was recommended the Sword of truth books and absolutley LOVED them although the final ending was extremley poor i have read them all at least 3 times.... so after looking at this list i am really looking forward to checking out some of these. If you guys all think the the books i loved so much are nowhere near as good as these i am in for a treat! 
Also i really enjoyed the magic study and poison study triloges but maybe im not the best judge of fantasy as i could not put down Goodkinds
i liked the list, gave some insight to what i was missing in my collection, but you never mentioned the DEATH GATE CYCLE, probably the best series in the fantasy saga genre
Thanks for this list, I am excited enough to continue writing my own books now and reading some new ones.
Hello, Well done for putting together this great list. I have a couple of suggestions, if I may. Firstly I would remove the childrens book series (Dark Materials, Narnia, etc.) from the list entirely that will prevent the Harry Potter zealots ranting on. Also whilst I enjoyed the series Michael Moorcock's Elric doesn't really rate that highly in my opinion. So with a couple of spaces created I would suggest perhaps David Gemmell's Drenai Tales, David Eddings Belgariad and Raymond E. Feists Riftwar Saga. Surprised those three didn't get a mention. Perhaps some kind of voting system for people to vote for their favourite(s) and then the top 25 is determined by votes cast? I myself have got a couple of book series suggestions from your list and will happily devour those. Thanks
Oh, David Gemmell's Winter Warriors was a fantastic read. It should at least be in the top ten.
Nice list, but...
Harry Potter on the last? and below Narnia? I read Narnia and Harry Potter,
and I just could not keep reading Narnia without yawning, though pretty original
and cute, it gets boring.
Harry Potter should have been at least not at the last one. Maybe not the best fantasy series (though personally I think it is), but aside commercial success and recognition, it has many complex and original material in it. Also, I think that the main plot being pretty simple makes it better for creating a more complex world around the characters.
Still, nice list.
a # of amazing series on this list.
i would HIGHLY recommend you check out jim butcher's 6-book Codex Alera series. i found it when i got hooked on his dresden books (also amazing). the series is a) completely done (im looking at you, george rr martin) and also a fascinating world, memorable characters, and has a fun, easy-to-read style. i absolutely devoured the series (twice now), and it has hooked a # of friends as well. it's top-5 all-time for me now, easily, and i think it would crack your list as well.