Great Fantasy Books
(aka the "Almost Top 25 Best Fantasy Books")
This is a comprehensive list of superb, must-read Fantasy books. While these fantasy novels didn't make the Top 25 Fantasy Books list, they are the "Honorable Mentions" that almost made the list. In fact, the books that get shuffled from the Top 25 Best Fantasy Books list, end up on the top of this list. Basically, this list continues DIRECTLY in ranking after the Top 25.
So I highly encourage you to read these great fantasy books as they are some of the best reads in the Fantasy genre.
You may find that some of these fantasy books make your own list of favorite fantasy books!
Update April 2011: I've moved some of the authors from the Top 25 list here and reshuffled the list. As requested, I've "ranked" the Great Fantasy Book list by what I consider are the better books -- consider it the NEXT top 50 fantasy books after the Top 25 list.
#26: Earthsea Cycle (Ursula Le Guin)
Comments (16)
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.
This is a coming of age story; leaps and bounds above the usual run of the mill boy-becomes-wizard-and-saves-world. With prose so good that you will want to lick the pages, and a story equally as enthralling, you will do no wrong buying this series. Lovers of Tolkien's Middle Earth will find themselves right at home in Guin's Earthsea. This is epic fantasy, but it's one of the best series out there. These books won a Nebula and Hugo award. This is the types of book you can read over and over, then some more. Touching, beautiful, at times sad, the Earthsea saga is one of the great masterpieces of fantasy literature.
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 .
#27: Amber Chronicles (Roger Zelazny)
Comments (9)| Community Book Review
Roger Zelazny is regarded as one of the greatest Science Fiction writers of the previous century. He's written a trove of Science Fiction; however, his Magnus Opus is the Amber chronicles. Amber is an "immortal city from which every other city has taken its shape. All other worlds are mere shadows of Amber." The books detail the story of Corwin, a prince of Amber who has been living on earth as an amnesiac. When someone tries to have him killed, he seeks to answer the questions of his lost past and find his way back to Amber... Full of mystery, adventure, and romance, Amber is complex, lyrical, and a bit weird. It's one man's journey through a bizarre landscape as he seeks to find his past.
#28: Mistborn (Brandon Sanderson)
Comments (23)| Community Book Review
Description (Book)
For a thousand years the ash fell and no flowers bloomed. For a thousand years the Skaa slaved in misery and lived in fear. For a thousand years the Lord Ruler, the “Sliver of Infinity,” reigned with absolute power and ultimate terror, divinely invincible. Then, when hope was so long lost that not even its memory remained, a terribly scarred, heart-broken half-Skaa rediscovered it in the depths of the Lord Ruler’s most hellish prison. Kelsier “snapped” and found in himself the powers of a Mistborn. A brilliant thief and natural leader, he turned his talents to the ultimate caper, with the Lord Ruler himself as the mark. Kelsier recruited the underworld’s elite, the smartest and most trustworthy allomancers, each of whom shares one of his many powers, and all of whom relish a high-stakes challenge. Only then does he reveal his ultimate dream, not just the greatest heist in history, but the downfall of the divine despot. But even with the best criminal crew ever assembled, Kel’s plan looks more like the ultimate long shot, until luck brings a ragged girl named Vin into his life. Like him, she’s a half-Skaa orphan, but she’s lived a much harsher life. Vin has learned to expect betrayal from everyone she meets, and gotten it. She will have to learn to trust, if Kel is to help her master powers of which she never dreamed.
Mistborn: The Final Empire is a strong novel (the start of a trilogy) that delivers something special the genre. Relentless action, characters you can empathize with, and a very strong plot. These books are right up there with some of the other fantasy greats like Martin, Hobb, Erikson, and company. Sanderson, like a few of the authors on the top 25 list, are fairly new players to the genre, but the man knows how to write a tale that keeps you up all night. It’s also nice to have an author who doesn't’t take four years between books in a series. So if you want to treat yourself to a unique magic system, great cast of characters, and one of the more endearing fantasy heroes you’ll read about (Kelsier), pick this book (and series) up.
About his Books
Sanderson has been a prolific author since he was published only a few years ago. Etlantris was his first book -- a book I was thoroughly impressed with and highly recommend. It's a standalone book. His Mistborn trilogy are probably his best work to date. Warbreaker is another (possibly standalone but with a definite sequel) novel set in a different world, with the trade mark unique magic system that Sanderson is becoming famous for with each new series/book. His newest series is the Stormlight Archive which looks to be every bit as good as his Mistborn saga. Sanderson is also writing the last two books (now 3 books) of Jordan's Wheel of Time.
Mistborn Trilogy      |
Etlantris  |
Warbreaker  |
Stormlight Archive (new)  |
Similar recommendations:
There's a lot you'll probably like if Mistborn appeals. For books that feature a small band of heroes struggling against overwhelming odds (usually a Dark Lord or villain of incredible power), you have quite a few picks. One might argue most epic fantasy books (which defines like 95% of the books currently populating the genre right now). Here are the better books out there that feature this plot device but (with exception of Wheel of Time) do something new: The Wheel of Time, Tigana, First Law, The Steel Remains.
#29: The Warded Man (Peter V. Brett)
Comments (13)| Community Book Review
Description (Publisher)
As darkness falls after sunset, the corelings rise—demons who possess supernatural powers and burn with a consuming hatred of humanity. For hundreds of years the demons have terrorized the night, slowly culling the human herd that shelters behind magical wards—symbols of power whose origins are lost in myth and whose protection is terrifyingly fragile. It was not always this way. Once, men and women battled the corelings on equal terms, but those days are gone. Night by night the demons grow stronger, while human numbers dwindle under their relentless assault. Now, with hope for the future fading, three young survivors of vicious demon attacks will dare the impossible, stepping beyond the crumbling safety of the wards to risk everything in a desperate quest to regain the secrets of the past. Together, they will stand against the night.
Night is here and the demons have come out to play. This is the premise to Peter V. Brett's awesome The Warded Man. The tale told is one so good that it keeps you glued to the pages with nary a break until you flip that last page. The story is not perfect, but world created and the cast of characters are incredibly enticing. Don't expect some pithy, intelligent twist on the genre as in Abercrombie's Blade Itself or Bakker's Prince of Nothing, The Warded Man is all raw action and standard fantasy conventions (village boy), but if you want a really damn good book that won't let you sleep, read it. Also check out The Warded Man book review on my blog. The sequel has has been released a couple months ago and it's a good read, though not as good (I have a few complaints with how some of the characters interact and the way the story is structured). But overall, the Warded Man and it's sequel are some of the more exciting reads in the fantasy genre.
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#30: Riddle of Stars (Patricia A. McKillip)
Comments (2)
This trilogy has been around for a while, but by no means is it any less worth reading. It is one of the "classics"
like Lord of the Rings, that every fantasy enthusiast should read. Fear not, the books are not archaic by any means
(published 20 or so years ago). The story is gripping, the characters indelible, and the prose lyrical--in the style of
say Sean Russell and J.R.R Tolkien. These fantasy books are everything fantasy should be and more -- a true gem of fantasy literature.
Similar recommendations
J.R.R.Tolkien's A Lord of the Rings. I also recommend Ursula le Guin's classic The Earthsea trilogy (starts with A Wizard of Earthsea), 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 Swans 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.
#31: The Magicians (Less Grossman)
Comments (11)| Community Book Review
Description (Amazon)
Like everyone else, precocious high school senior Quentin Coldwater assumes that magic isn't real, until he finds himself admitted to a very secretive and exclusive college of magic in upstate New York. There he indulges in joys of college-friendship, love, sex, and booze- and receives a rigorous education in modern sorcery. But magic doesn't bring the happiness and adventure Quentin thought it would. After graduation, he and his friends stumble upon a secret that sets them on a remarkable journey that may just fulfill Quentin's yearning. But their journey turns out to be darker and more dangerous than they'd imagined. Psychologically piercing and dazzlingly inventive, The Magicians is an enthralling coming-of-age tale about magic practiced in the real world-where good and evil aren't black and white, and power comes at a terrible price.
The Magicians is a book that will take you by surprise. In a genre populated by epic fantasy quests and magical swords, by overused cliches and shallow fantasy, this book is really something unique; it’s grown-up fantasy. This is part Harry Potter on downers and suffering from clinical depression, part Alice trapped in a Wonderland gone nightmarishly wrong. At it's heart, the Magicians is really the story of a boy-become-man struggling to give the world meaning in a world that has no meaning. What does this all mean? The Magicians is fantasy that’s more than fantasy. If you are looking for a happy-go-lucky read where the world is saved and everyone finds true love and does a victory dance into the sunset, you may want to skip this one. For the rest of you who want to taste something different (and this one has a lot of zing to it folks), Les Grossman’s The Magicians delivers. Apparently, Less Grossman is working on a sequel to The Magicians. I wait with bated breath.
Similar recommendations:
You might want to give Susan Clarke's Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell a read. Like Less Grossman's The Magicians, it's a story about magic in a world that supposedly has no magic. Both novels veer from the usual fantasy conventions, weighing in as more than just "fantasy." I like to call these "literary fantasy."
#32: The Dark Tower (Stephen King)
Comments (31)
I especially recommend the fantastic AUDIOBOOK version which really bring to life the characters through the superb voice acting by the narrator. I'm a big fan of audiobooks and I find they are much more immersive then just reading a book. Just put it on your ipod and those monotonous chores are not so boring after all! I particularly like to listen to audiobooks when driving.
Similar recommendations
Read Steven King's The Talisman, which is another book set in the Dark Tower universe. It's a powerful read about a boy trying to save his mother. Jack Sawyer,
a 12-year old boy, sets off on a quest to find a mythical talisman that will save his dying mother. His quest will take him across America
and into the heart of a parallel world. I listened to the Audiobook version of this novel and was blown away by the story.
Steven King
is always at his best when he explores "worlds not our own." Several of his books explore the parallel universe concept. King's Insomnia is another such book (set in the same universe as The Dark Tower) and a great read.
#33: A Kingdom of Thorn and Bone (Greg Keyes)
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Similar recommendations:
If you like Greg Keyes' The Briar King, try R. Scott Bakker's The Darkness That Comes Before,
which features superlative prose, an unique, but fascinating storyline, and the gritty realism that
Martin exhibits. Also try Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire and Ice saga and Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time.
#34: His Dark Materials (Philip Pullman)
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Similar recommendations
Since His Dark Materials is the anti-Chronicles of Narnia, it makes sense that you should read The Chronicles of Narnia . C.S. Lewis' masterpiece Narnia is a classic of the genre. While it's very clearly a Christian allegory, it can be enjoyed without reading too deep into the Christian subtext. The writing is great and it's a great magical adventure for both kids and adults. I also suggest reading Garth Nix's The Abhorsen Trilogy . Garth Nix is a fabulous writer and Abhorson is a chilling horror fantasy that really sucks you in. It's YA (young adult) but don't let that stop you! Garth Nix's newest series, Keys to the Kingdom , is also a great read, both for the kiddies and adults, one of the better series for kids. Don't forget to read Jonathan Stroud's very impressive The Bartimaeus Trilogy It's an action packed thrill ride about a magician's apprentice who manages to summon a powerful genie (Bartimaeus). Bartimaeus is less then pleased with this turn of events and tries to sabotage his young master at every opportunity. Hilariously funny, at times very dark, with great writing, a great cast of well-developed characters, and an interesting world, Bartimaeus is a must read series (for both kids and adults). And finally, Harry Potter. I won't bother explaining why. You might note that each of these YA books can be read by children, but at the same time they are equally entertaining for adults. And every one of the books mentioned starts of pretty lighthearted but becomes quite dark in tone and content. While this may not be great for 6 year old Johnny who is wondering why his hero dies a horrible death, it makes for a more sophisticated plot. The sweet is not as sweet without having the bitter. If you are specifically looking for books your kid might like, i suggest you visit The Top 10 Fantasy Books for Kids list.
#35: Tigana (Guy Gavriel Kay)
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A novel of adventure, love, and betrayal, Tigana is an emotional masterpiece that delves deeply into the human soul. A masterpiece of fiction, Tigana has transcended the fantasy genre to become a work of literature. If you are looking for a multi-series epic fantasy, look elsewhere. But anyone who enjoys unconventional fantasy with a cast of ambiguous characters and a haunting story will enjoy this novel immensely. This book will literally wrench tears from even the most jaded. In a world where the waistline of Fantasy books is ever expanding, Tigana proves that you can write a compelling fantasy story in a single book. This is one of the BEST fantasy standalone books out there.
Similar recommendations:
Kay has written a good deal of fantasy and all of it's great. If you like the sheer emotion of Tigana,
read Sailing to Sarantium . You should also give the The Summer Tree 
#36: The Seven Waters Trilogy (Juliet Marillier)
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Similar recommendations:
For another series with fantastic female protagonist, read Jaques Carry's Kushiel's Dart. If you like the Celtic fantasy aspect of the series,
try Stephen Lawhead's "The Endless Knot" series. Marillier also has several other Celtic fantasy books (Wolfskin) which are highly recommended if you like her
Seven Waters trilogy. And you must read Robert Holdstock's Mythago Wood, which I feel is the most superlative Celtic fantasy novel ever written. It's stunning and
also a literary masterpiece.
#37: Mythago Wood (Robert Holdstock)
Comments (8)
An astounding journey into a strange other world, a world where tribes from different ages coexist, given life by the power of ancient myth and legends. In Ryhope Wood, mythical archetypes of primitive man come to life. For a fascinating Fantasy that's truly unique in the genre and a rattling good story, pick up a copy of Mythago Wood. I encourage you to give this novel a read; this novel demonstrates that there are other fantastic Fantasy subgenres out there other then the standard epic fantasy.
Similar recommendations:
The only other novel that explores similar themes is Neil Gaimen in his monumental work, American Gods. The same idea of ancient mythical figures coexisting with the modern world
is explored, though the stories are radically different and Mythago Wood is perhaps a darker
tale and one where myth is cloaked in much more mystery. Another book that comes to mind is Keith Donohue's The Stolen Child. It's a boy who is kidnapped by fairies and forced to grow up in a forest. A novel about the search for identity, The Stolen Child makes for
a compelling read. For those who like fairies and deep literature, pick up The Stolen Child.
#38: The Way of Shadows (Night Angel Trilogy) (Brent Weeks)
Comments (12)| Community Book Review
Night Angel Trilogy      |
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Similar recommendations:
If you like the whole assassin theme and the intense action, you should read Michael Stover's Heroes Die. It's a viciously sweet and highly underrated book. It was previously on the Top 25 list.
Also check out Robin Hobb's The Farseer Trilogy which details the life and exploits of Fritz Chivalry, an assassin in training.
#39: Tales of the Otori (Lian Hearn)
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This series is one of my favorite. Not in several years have I read a fantasy book (or any book) this good, and I have read thousands.
To tell you the truth, I have read so many books that are trash that I have grown used to, perhaps even expecting poor quality
when I read a fantasy novel. Pure drivel like Robert Newcomb's "The Fifth Sorceress"or Terry Goodkind's "The Naked Empire" pop up like weeds
these days. But amidst the piles and piles of rubble, sometimes you find that rose of exceptional beauty. And "Across the Nightingale Floor" is that rose.
It's vastly different than the usual run-of-the-mill fantasy novels, unique even. The setting of the book takes place in a mythical Japanese-like society, though it's not a direct allusion to actual history, and it
features a smattering of magic. It's a coming of age story, but not in the usual Robert Jordan type of way. Perhaps the best way to
describe it is as a recipe: Take the majestic backdrop of "Shogun", mix it with the cool assassin factor of "Hero's Die", imbue it
with the mysticism of Eric Lustbader's "Ninja", then toss in a fabulous plot, superlative characterization, a good dose of pathos,
a chunk of romance and you have what I consider to be one of the best books, ever.
If you have read "A Song of Fire of Ice"fifteen times, spun through the "Wheel of Time" more times than Nynaeve pulls her braid,
and consumed every Hobb novel, then give this book a shot; it won't disappoint. It's a sweeping epic of love, betrayal, loyalty, magic, and a high quest for revenge, and so dam fine a read you will want to lick
the cover when you're done. I HIGHLY recommend you check this book out.
Similar recommendations:
If you like martial art themes or are fascinated by the Far East, read Sean Russell's "The Initiate Brother". You might also try Curt Benjamin's epic fantasy (Seven Brothers) with an Asian flavor--a sort of "Wheel of Time"set in china. And master fantasy storyteller, Guy Gaverial Kay, has turned is highly skilled historical fiction writing chops to ancient china with his new masterpiece, Under Heaven.
#40: Heroes Die (Matthew Woodring Stover )
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Day of the Jackal meets Lord of the Rings, Heroes Die is a heart-pounding thrill ride that never brakes and one novel you don't want to put down. A blend of sci-fi and fantasy, Heroes Die is as good as they come. It's a unique world with some interesting concepts and a whole lot of blood. A world is only as good as its characters, and Stover's Caine is very very good. He's an anti-hero through and through, a man twisted by his own violence, confused between his role as a good guy superstar back on earth and his occupation as the best assassin Ankhana has ever seen. Caine ponders his morality of his actions all the while eviscerating his victims. Ultra violent, visceral and just damn cool, Heroes Die is a shrine to violence and Caine is the high priest. Those wanting a superb story that rushes along faster than a supersonic jet, with more action then you can shake a stick at need wait no longer.
Similar recommendations
If you like the Assassin factor of Heroes Die, read Brent Weeks' The Night Angel Trilogy. It's a great read and Weeks is a rising star in the Fantasy world. Also read Robin Hobb's The Farseer Trilogy -- an epic tale about an assassin in training in a fantasy landscape, but with one of the most well drawn characters ever to grace the Fantasy scene.
#41: Legend (David Gemmell)
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Amazon Description
Druss, Captain of the Axe, was the stuff of legends. But even as the stories grew in the telling, Druss himself grew older. He turned his back on his own legend and retreated to a mountain lair to await his old enemy, death. Meanwhile, barbarian hordes were on the march. Nothing could stand in their way. Druss reluctantly agreed to come out of retirement. But could even Druss live up to his own legends?
Gemmell was a prolific writer and a good one at that. His books are fascinated with the concept of
heroism and sacrifice ? these always playing key themes in his novels. He delights in telling the
story of a broken man (often a man past his prime who just wants peace) who tries to find meaning through sacrifice. Here are his "best" books--though
all of his books tend to be pretty good. Some people love his style, while some find he writes the
same tale over and over. His best books are Legend, Waylander, and Lord of the Silver Bow.
#42: The Swan's War (Sean Russell)
Comments (1)
Highly underrated series. This high fantasy saga has flown under the radar for some reason, which is shame.
With an amazing story, well drawn characters endemic to a Russell novel, and absolutely gorgeous prose, it's astounding that
many people have not heard of The Swan's War or Sean Russell who is one of the better Fantasy writers around.
Russell's world is full of mystery and beauty. In many cases,
Fantasy books are so overloaded with magic that it soon ceases to mean anything--a simple Pug or Richard gains-new-power and
defeats-even-more powerful villain, ad infinity . Russell opts to keep magic mysterious and rare. He never explains how it works.
Martin does this in "A Song of Fire and Ice"and Tolkien in Lord of the Rings as well. If you want to read books that will sweep
you off your feet with their beauty, passion and superlative plot, check this trilogy out.
Similar recommendations
J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. The Swans War trilogy seems both similar yet different than Lord of the Rings. The mysterious and rare nature of magic is a trait shared by both books, as is the beautiful prose that seems half poetry, half fiction (though Russell's work is more "modern"and novelistic). Also give Ursula Le Guin's A Wizard of Earthsea a try: the book has that sense of mystery and wonder that percolates The Swan's War.
#43: Elantris (Brandon Sanderson)
Comments (3)
Similar recommendations
If you like reimaginings of old legends, read The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley. This is the best retelling of the legend of author from the point of view from the women behind the throne. It's a powerful retelling of the Authurian legend and can be easily enjoyed even if you don't like reading Authurian fiction.
#44: Kushiel's Dart (Jacqueline Carey)
Comments (0)
Amazon Description
The land of Terre d'Ange is a place of unsurpassing beauty and grace. It is said that angels found the land and saw it was good...and the ensuing race that rose from the seed of angels and men live by one simple rule: Love as thou wilt.
Phedre Delaunay is a young woman who was born with a scarlet mote in her left eye. Sold into indentured servitude as a child, her bond is purchased by Anafiel Delaunay, a nobleman with very a special mission...and the first one to recognize who and what she is: one pricked by Kushiel's Dart, chosen to forever experience pain and pleasure as one.
Phedre is trained equally in the courtly arts and the talents of the bedchamber, but, above all, the ability to observe, remember, and analyze. Almost as talented a spy as she is courtesan, Phedre stumbles upon a plot that threatens the very foundations of her homeland. Treachery sets her on her path; love and honor goad her further. And in the doing, it will take her to the edge of despair...and beyond. Hateful friend, loving enemy, beloved assassin; they can all wear the same glittering mask in this world, and Ph??dre will get but one chance to save all that she holds dear.
Set in a world of cunning poets, deadly courtiers, heroic traitors, and a truly Machiavellian villainess, this is a novel of grandeur, luxuriance, sacrifice, betrayal, and deeply laid conspiracies. Not since Dune has there been an epic on the scale of Kushiel's Dart-a massive tale about the violent death of an old age, and the birth of a new.
A superbly drawn romantic fantasy. Love, treachery, heartbreak and triumph, this novel has all
the elements that make a book great. Jacqueline Carey creates the most well-drawn female protagonist in the fantasy genre.
The book won the Locus Best Fantasy award. All the characters have realistic motivations and the villains
aren't exactly villains. All in all, this is some complex and compelling fantasy. For many of you, this book
Similar recommendations
Carey's other Kushiel books are must reads if you like Kushiel's Dart (the first in the series). If you like the whole strong female protagonist of Carey's world, then you should read The Liveship Traders by Robin Hobb which features a very richly drawn world (same world as Hobb's Farseer series) and strong, interesting female protagonists. You might also Like Laura Resnick's In Legend Born, which is high fantasy with some compelling females characters with realistic motivations.
If you like Carey's work, I suggest you look at the Top 25 Fantasy Books for Women list which will have quite a few books that you may enjoy.
#45: Sword-Dancer (Jennifer Roberson)
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Similar recommendations
Deborah Chester's The Sword, the Ring, and the Chalice Trilogy. Like The Sword Dancer Saga, Chester's Sword & Sorcery trilogy is full of rich characterization.
#46: Daughter of the Empire (Raymond E. Feist and Janny Wurts)
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Feist has got a ton of books out, however, several stand out above the rest. His Magician duology made my top 20 list. His Empire Saga, which he co-wrote with Janny Wurts, is a fabulously entertaining series. If you like his Magician books, then definitely read the sequels: the Serpent War saga. I also enjoyed Talon of the Silverhawk and Exile's Return. The other, I feel, are mediocre.
#47: Godless World trilogy (Brian Ruckley)
Comments (3)
The Godless World is a new fantasy series by Brian Ruckley. It? an amazing debut that delivers everything epic fantasy fans are looking for. This series feels somewhat similar to George R.R. Martin? A Song of Ice and Fire. It? got that same sort of gritty world and cast of grey characters (though less grey then Martin? characters) that Song of Ice and Fire has. There is also a sense of ancient history and myth that pervades the novel. For those wanting to read a gritty fantasy epic with a wonderfully drawn world and really exciting plot, the Godless world delivers.
#48: The Second Sons (Jennifer Fallon)
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From the Book Flap:
On the world Ranadon there is no night as both suns shine brightly. The intervention of Belagren, High Priestess of the Shadowdancers,
and the sacrifice of a child of royal blood, has banished the Age of Shadows from the skies. Belagren's position is unquestioned . . .
until circumstances begin to tip political rivalries into a deadlier game altogether.
A volcanic eruption rocks the seas separating the Kingdom of Dhevyn and the mainland Kingdom of Senet,
and a mysterious sailor is shipwrecked on the island of Elcast. Badly wounded, his arrival stirs up old
hatreds and unravels old secrets. His presence is enough to even bring Antonov, the powerful Lion of Senet,
to the island and fear to the Keep of the Duke of Elcast. A strong friendship develops between Dirk, second
son of the Duke, and Kirshov Latanya, second son of the Lion of Senet. But will they, and their friendship,
survive the chain of events set in motion by the ambitions of the ruthless High Priestess of the Shadowdancers
and the domineering Lion of Senet?
These books are not "fantasy" in the traditional sense: there's no magic, no demons invading
the world from the beyond, no dragons flying around breathing fire. Instead, it's all about the characters. Fallon
brings plotting and characterization to a whole new level. Love, treachery, friendship, redemption, and plot twists so twisted they redefine the word, this series keep you on your
feet the whole way through. While the series may lack the traditional elements that define fantasy (magic, non-human
creatures, etc.) it's still everything a fantasy book should be. Worth reading every sentence. A Fantasy book without a lot of the
"fantasy stuff," these fantasy books are unique.
#49: Furies of Calderon (Jim Butcher)
Comments (11)
Classic fantasy done right. Good story, good plot, terrific action, and fantasy set in a Roman milieu (something unusual in fantasy). This book features one of the more interesting magic systems. Done by the author of the Dresden Files (which is a good recommendation on its own merit indeed).
#50: Shadowmarch (Tad Williams)
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Williams opens another of the intricate, intriguing sagas that are his stock-in-trade. In a once turbulently conflicted land of humans, elves, and dwarves, an old truce is starting to unravel. The frontier called the Shadowline, between the Twilight Lands and those of humans, is being breached. The first Marchlands kingdom in the path of Twilight invaders is in disarray, for its king is a prisoner, and not all accept his elder son's regency. What's more, the cruel empire of the south is moving north. So the Marchlands are caught between two foes while having to deal with internal intrigues and inexperienced rulers. When the prince regent is killed, apparently by one of his closest advisors, the surviving regents are an impetuous princess and a disabled prince. Trust at court and in the kingdom dwindles even as Twilight forces attack, and responsibilities the princess never dreamed of or prepared for fall upon her. A page-turner, if you can keep the who, where, and when straight (the appended lists of people and places help).
A great fantasy series that fans of big fantasy epics like A Game of Thrones and Robert Jordan's A Wheel of Time will enjoy. Williams creates a vast world full of ancient mythology and unknown lands. This is High Fantasy at its best. Really, I mean it.
Similar Recommendations
George R.R. Martin's Song of Ice and Fire and Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time. Like Shadowmarch, these series have massive worlds with highly realized cultures, the clash of kingdoms, and a struggle of humans against other creatures.
#51: Rise of Moontide and Magic (Sean Russell)
Comments (1)
Similar recommendations
If you like the combination of science and magic co existing, check out Gregory Keyes "The Age of Unreason" saga. Another book that retains the same style as Russell's "Moontide Magic Rise" is Ian Mcdonald's "The Light Ages". You should also read Beneath the Vaunted hills, the prequel to the Rise of Moontide and Magic. Those of you familiar with Russell trademark style won't be disappointed. These books are every bit as good as his Moontide and Magic books.
#52: A Song For Abalion (Steven Lawhead)
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This is, in my opinion, the best "cross" over fantasy book ever, right on par with Gavel Guy Kay's Fionavar Tapestry and CS Lewis's
Chronicles of Narnia series. Lawhead's hero, a rather plain and ordinary London citizen, is accidentally transported into the
Celtic times via a magic portal. He is forced to survive and adapt to a hostile culture. It documents his journey from normal
to extraordinary, from a warrior to hero. Characterization is top notch here. The protagonist is portrayed as a living and
breathing man. Lawhead knows how to write, and he holds nothing back in the phenomenal fantasy trilogy. This trilogy is Lawhead's best work. If you want some fantasy books
that will rock your world, pick these ones up!
#53: Talion: Revenant (Michael A. Stackpole)
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This is some of the best heroic fantasy out there, and it's Stackpole's best work yet. It's also his first fantasy book. What sets it apart from other similar books is the heavy dose of pathos pervading the novel. It's not a "happy" type novel; there is a deep sadness that rings through the prose. But the characterization of Nolan, the hero, is fantastic, and it features a good plot. Nolan is forced to choose between love and honour.
#54: The Sword, the Ring, and the Chalice (Deborah Chester)
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Elves and Dwarfs have become the new byword for unoriginality in a fantasy book. Every time I see the word "Elf" or "Dwarf", I cringe. Chester however does something original. She writes a Sword and Sorcery trilogy, but unlike Conan, the characters actually have emotions and a brain as opposed to pure brawn or thigh. Characterization is very well done. Who ever thought there could be a Sword & Sorcery with depth? Well Chester's done it! Make sure you acquire of all three books in the series before you start on the first, because when you finish the first, you will want to tear through the rest.
Similar recommendations: Jennifer Roberson's Sword Dancer saga. Also try her Realm of Light trilogy, which reads is similar (though not as good) to The Sword, The Ring, and the Chalice.
#55: Boreal Moon trilogy (Julia May)
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Fabulous trilogy that hasn't received the acclaim or popularity it deserves. Julian May has written a fantastic saga of love, treachery, war, and magic. Magic has a definite sense of mystery in this series but also retains a strong presence. In addition, the magic system is one of the most interesting ones I?e encounter. If you want a ripping good yarn, compelling characters, and lots of politics, adventure, and fighting, read this book. If you like Robert Jordan, but hate the pedantic pacing of his books, this series is for you.
#56: Crown of Stars saga (Kate Elliot)
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Similar Recommendations
Tad William's Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn saga. William's has beautifully reinterpreted Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings (and no it is not in the least bit a clone, and no, there is no One Ring), creating a vast world of mystery and magic. Characterization is top notch.
#57: Tyrant and Kings (John Marco)
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Similar Recommendations
You might want to give Chris Bunch's The Seer King trilogy series a shot. If you like Marco's refusal to pigeon-hole characters as either black or white, try his other series, The Eyes of God and the sequel, Devil's Armor. If you like military setting of "Tyrants & Kings", check out Glenn Cook's Chronicles of the Black Company saga.
#58: Deathgate Cycle (Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman)
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Similar recommendations:
You may want to try Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time. Farland's The Rune Lords and Raymond E Feist's Magician.
#59: The Runelords (Dave Farland)
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I love this series. The magic system, next to Jordan?, is perhaps the most comprehensive and unique of all the fantasy books I have read. Of course, having a cool magic system is not enough to guarantee a great book. The plot grips tight, the characters strong, and the action fantastic. If you like Robert Jordan and Raymond Feist, you?e going to gorge yourself to bliss on Farland? Runelords.
#60: The Amtrack Wars (Patrick Tilley)
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Ten centuries ago the Old Time ended when Earth's cities melted in the War of a Thousand Suns. Now the lethal high technology of the Amtrak Federation's underground stronghold is unleashed on Earth's other survivors - the surface-dwelling Mutes.
Phenomenal books. Action, love, adventure, magic. And a damn damn sweet plot. These Fantasy Books are a bit old and maybe out of print, but if you can manage to get you hands on this six volume series, you're in for a real treat.
#61: The Initiate Brother (Sean Russell)
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Similar Recommendations
Read Lian Hearn's Across the Nightingale Floor for a Japanese-flavoured fantasy. Ninja assassins with magic. Need I say more?
#62: Harry Potter (J.K. Rowling)
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Harry Potter. What fantasy fiction fan has not read these books? Harry Potter has introduced millions of people to the fantasy genre.
With a protagonist and plot that appeals to many people (Harry, an awkward kid with special powers who goes to a new school and tries to fit in),
Harry Potter is a fun read. The books start of lighthearted, but I found Potter starts to get really interesting from the fifth book onward;
the series gets darker and there is a stronger "grown up"element to the books at this point. If you haven't read them (not too many of these left),
you should. While Harry Potter is vastly different the classic fantasy most people are used to, there are a worthy addition to the fantasy genre,
and should be read.
#63: A Curse of Chalion (Lois Mcmaster Bujold)
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A Curse of Chalion won the World Fantasy award. Bujold is a fine writer, able to create realistic characters and well-spun plots. Bujold likes to write about anti-heroes, or at least unassuming heroes. And there is always a strong romantic subplot. Bujold is a top-notch characterization writer who can spin a great romantic tale.
Similar Recommendations
Read "Paladin of Souls" which is a follow up book set in the same world as A Curse of Chalion. You might also want to check out her Miles Vorkosigan Science Fiction series. Julian Marillier and Jacques Carrey are also two authors who write romantic fantasy. You might like their books if you like Lois's handling of romantic relationships.
#64: The Chronicles of Narnia (C.S. Lewis)
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Similar Recommendations
The following are some of the best YA (Young Adult) novels written: Phillip Pullman's His His Dark Materials, Garth Nix's The Abhorsen Trilogy, and Jonathan Stroud's The Bartimaeus Trilogy. J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter. Don't let the YA tag sway you from reading them however. They are every bit as enjoyable to adults as they are for kids, and each series is actually rather dark!
You should check out the Best Fantasy Books for Children list for some more YA fantasy recommendations.
#65: The Light Ages (Ian R. MacLeod)
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Set in a Age of Industry a bleak and gritty England, , the wealth that comes from magic is both revered and reviled. Here, an ambitious young man is haunted by his childhood love--a woman determined to be a part of the world he despises. This is steampunk fantasy ? fantasy where technology and magic are woven together. I found this was a fascinating novel about a humble man's quest to change the world. The world is an alternate gritty London during the industrial revolution (but with magic instead of electricity). Those who like books in the vein of Neil Gaiman and China Mieville will be entertained by this novel.
Similar Recommendations
J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. The Swans War trilogy seems both similar yet different than Lord of the Rings. The mysterious and rare nature of magic is a trait shared by both books, as is the beautiful prose that seems half poetry, half fiction (though Russell's work is more "modern"and novelistic).
#66: Vampire Earth (E.E. Knight)
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Similar Recommendations
If you like the Vampire Earth series, you may like Glen Cook's Instrumentalities of the Night series. Those books sort of have the same feel (a world that has been conquered by an inimical enemy.
#67: Oath of Empires saga (Thomas Harlan)
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It is 600 AD and Rome has never fallen. The Roman Empire of the East will join the Roman Empire of the West to invade the inimical Persians who threaten the very gates of Constantinople itself. Featuring epic battles, beautiful babes, and powerful magic, Oath of Empires is an epic story so full of energy that your hair will sizzle. It features the epic scope of a Steven Erikson novel, a Robert Jordan Wheel of Time like struggle, and the George Martin propensity for axing main characters. Yummy!
Similar recommendations: Steven Erickson? ? Tale of the Malazan Book of the Fallen saga, which is as epic as they come, and features an array of massive battles like Oath of Empires. The dazzling magic battles are also very similar is scope and size. Harlan? work focuses more closely on individual characters, however, while Erickson zooms out. You might also try Michelle West? Sun Sword saga which features a similar type scenario as in Oath of Empires (two culturally different empires clashing, while an ancient evil stirs behind the scenes orchestrating a conquest of the mortal world?. Also give James Barclay's Ascendants of Astoria saga a shot. Great battle scenes and epic.
#68: Ascendants of Astoria (James Barclay)
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Similar Recommendations
Barclay has some other great heroic military fantasy out there (I suggest trying Dawnthief). Barclay's style is a bit like the late David Gemmel's (read Legend). Glen Cook is another author too look at (especially his Chronicles of the Black Company series). You should also check out Malazan Book of the Fallen by Erikson. And finally, look at John Marco's Tyrants and Kings series.
#69: Black Jewel (Anne Bishop)
Bishop takes the Heaven and Hell archetypes and flips them around. Satan is the "good" guy, and Hell is the place to be. Features a strong cast of characters, a strong, well-drawn female protagonist. A warning, these books are extremely sexually explicit, as rape, torture, violence are the foundations of Bishop's world. Any chicks who dig the romance genre will enjoy these. I don't pride myself on being any sort of romance connoisseur, but this trilogy was very entertaining.
Similar recommendations
If you like Bishop's new spin on Heaven and Hell, you might enjoy Wayne Barlowe's God's Demon. Inspired by John Milton's vision of Heaven and Hell, God's Demon follows the exploits of Sargatanas, a fallen angle who to rejoin the ranks of Heaven will overthrow hell...
Other Recommendations
If you are looking for more book recommendations, check these related lists out.
- Good Fantasy Books
- 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!
I loved the Warded Man and I am currently reading the Desert Spear, but I feel as if the books should be a little lower on your list because as phenomenal as the Warded Man was the Desert Spear is beyond disappointing and I hope Brett amends the poor writing in the Desert Spear for book 3. I also feel as if he adds in too much unnecessary, disturbing sexual encounters.
I really must recommend Alison Croggon's Pellinor series (The Gift, The Riddle, The Crow and The Singing). They are beautifully written pieces (I don't mean 'flowery') with an interesting philosophy of magic. Trudi Canavan has created some engaging characters in her Magician series' and had fun with the concept of gods in another. Kate Forsyth's witches of Eileanan is an old favourite. If you want flowery prose and the blending of British Isles folklore and good smattering of romance try Ceciilia Dart-Thornton's Bitterbynde trilogy.(You do need to be in the spirit of excessive description to appreciate this one though.)
Hi,
Been looking for a fantasy book I cant seem to get out of my head.
Its about a woman who was kidnapped by witches who then cast a spell on her so no one else could see her, she was later captured by a man who also captured the witches....
Would be grateful if anyone remembered the book.
?? Not Phantom from the Sword of Truth series?
Thank you, thank you, thank you....that's the one....
Hey! What do you think about the legacy of the drow series?
Is worth buying?
Yes.great series. Trafitional fantasy, dragons swords magical weapons, romance and tons of action
Your list was great and I can't argue with most of the authors you like (besides the Harry Poter series which I think is crap but I know I am a minority opinion on that).
I was wondering what you think of RA Salvatore and Piers Anthony's work? two of my favorite fantasy authors that didn't seem to make your list?
Thanks
Years and years ago, I began reading a series of books. The series was about an old man. When he'd go to sleep, he would travel to a different dimention, and there he was powerful. When the man was not sleeping he was unhappy and grumpy in a town where nobody liked him. I wanted to start reading this series of books again, but can't find out who the author was.
Please help me
I believe you're looking for Stephen Donaldson's Chronicles of Thomas Covenant (first book is Lord Foul's Bane).
Great list, but where on earth is the mighty Michael Scott Rohan? His 'Winter of the World' series is one of the very few fantasy attempts I would geniunely compare to Tolkein in depth and quality of prose.
Slightly dismayed at how frequently George RR Martin and and Robert Jordan are held up as paragons of fantasy virtue, as well - Game of Thrones was great but as the series progresses (slowly, so slowly) it's lapsing into sprawling, thousand-charactered mediocrity, following exactly in the footseps of Robert Jordan, in fact.
Obviously this is only my opinion, everyone's tastes are different, and these are two very talented and sucessful authors but their names crop up more than I think is fair or warranted.
Thanks for the useful list, I'm ordering the ones I haven't read now.
I agree with most of these, as they are all great additions to the fantasy genre, but why isn't Steven Brust's Vlad Taltos series on here?
The Vlad Taltos series is a very cool read. Pretty original, has some good schemes and fun to it. It has a great story, and the characters are fun as well. The series made me laugh quite a bit, and also made me think. It obviously isn't cut out to face up against works like ASOIAF and LOTR, but it definatly deserves a spot on the great list.
If you have read the series yet, you should definatly pick it up. The books were written out of order as Brust attempted to write the books so they could be read in any order you'd like, but he didn't do so good of a job. I certainly don't suggest starting the series with Teckla, for example. Read the books in cronological order, and you'll have a great read. I'd love to see some replies, whether you agree or disagree with this suggestion.
Thanks for the read!
There are several old authors I liked very much who seem let out. James Branch Cabell, the greatest of satirical fantasy, Anatole France, Lord Dunsany, Thorne Smith, even Mark Twain. All of these beet an author like Raymond Feist as far as I am concerned. And Terry Pratcherd is too stupid for me to keep reading.
I would just like to say that I think it is a shame that the Sword of Truth series by Terry Goodkind is not here. One of the most awesome and in-depth fantasy books I've ever read.
My 2 cent 
I totally agree with Mr.Me, Terry Goodkind has given me countless hours of enjoyment. His series "Sword of Truth" was wonderful.
It makes me sad to see The Way of Shadows and the Night Angel trilogy not on the top 25, but I understand why. They're one of my favorite series, and I do disagree on your commentary about them. I found them to be as readable as brain candy, but with content. They touch on subjects that actually can get me to react emotionally, which happens so rarely (for me, at least). I've met the author for a book signing, and he is still in a euphoria of "I got published!". He even mentioned that his strength lies in the characters, not the world, which is what he was trying to boost in future novels.
I also wish to see Steven Brust's Taltos series on here. They're short, sweet, and one of the most unique worlds I have seen yet. For that matter, Brust is likely the most versatile author I have read. He can write horror (Agyar - the vampire book that never mentions vampires), he can write historical fantasy blurs (Freedom and Necessity) and he can write outstanding fantasy. I wouldn't put his Khavren Romances series up on a tops list, but I would put them on a to-read list for fun. They're a rip off of the 3 Musketeers, he's said so himself, but they're entertaining. Taltos is quality.
I was also wondering if Charles de Lint would ever appear on these lists. He can also hit my heart strings, which for me is rare. He writes urban fantasy. The ones I've read are about Jillie Coppercorn, set in his town of Newford. I'd recommend them to anyone looking for a serious read that does not want a classic fantasy setting, and is okay with brutal modern content (Jillie is a rape victim and recovering drug addict). One of the criticisms I have seen towards him is that he tends towards "happily ever after" or "bittersweet happily ever after" endings. His books are about the path more than the ending though.
I agree with nearly every bit of the pics (aside from Long Price which I dislike not because it isn't good but because I wasn't a fan of the density of the story. When fantasy novels begin to get too bogged down by their own imaginary systems i tend to move on); I have to say though, Brent Weeks ranked so high? Don't get me wrong, the plot and idea is okay, but the writing was horrific. I used to grade papers as a T.A. and I was tempted to get out my red sharpie and scrawl "Lacks Clarity" or "develop characters" across the pages. The book in itself has sold like crazy (I suspect this has a bit to do with the game Assassins Creed) but Weeks' writing would not be passed through by publishers of any other genre other than fantasy. In my opinion that is why fantasy gets such a bad rap, because publishers know they can still make money off of crap writing...
p.s. - I was glad to see Terry Goodkind in "worst of", I was disgusted to see the series made NPR's top 100 fantasy books.
The Inheritance Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin should certainly grace this list. It's fairly new but one of the best ongoing series out there. I also second the Vlad Taltos comment...so good!
Other than that, a very informative list. Keep up the good work!
How about the Inheritance Trilogy by Christopher Paolini?
I thin kyour lists are fantastic, but quite surprised to see no mention of any of Steven Brust's books.
His Vlad Taltos is original, really well written, humorous and with plots that keep you guessing till the last page!
Though you mentioned Tolken you did not have him in your top book list???
Also I did not see any of R.A. Salvator's book seriies mentioned have you not read them or just don't like them? Peronsally I prefer Salvator's books to Martin's Jordan's. and all the others you have listed that I have read.
I did not see any dragon lance books either. Winter, Autumn, Fall, Summer were great books. Although I have yet to read Eliminter I hear it's really good as well and do not see it even mentioned.
Have you read these books and they did not make the grade or are you missing these from what you've read?
Check the worst list. You will see them.
Oh man, I hate King....I only ever like one of his books and that's it.
Also, please rewrite the title of the first 'His Dark Materials' book- I detest the fact that people are now calling it by the 'American' title instead of its original, actual title- Northern Lights.
I thought I would mention the Sword of Truth series by Terry Goodkind. These are some of the first fantasy novels I read. The characters are extremely loveable and memorable. There are some philosophical undertones, but what good fantasy series doesn't have those? I would highly recommend giving these a read.
lol, ruh roh... I just found this one on the Worst fantasy list. Well, to each his own I guess.