Fantasy books have the unique ability to transport readers to other worlds filled with magic, adventure, and wonder. From classic novels like The Lord of the Rings to newer works like The Gilded Ones, there are countless fantasy books that offer readers the chance to escape reality and explore a realm beyond their wildest dreams. In this post, we’ll take a look at 6 well-known and 6 relatively new fantasy books that are sure to transport you to another world.
Well-known Fantasy Books:
The Lord of the Rings Trilogy by J.R.R. Tolkien
The Lord of the Rings is a classic trilogy that has captivated readers for generations. Set in the fictional world of Middle-earth, the story follows hobbit Frodo Baggins as he sets out on a quest to destroy the One Ring and defeat the dark lord Sauron. Along the way, he meets a diverse cast of characters, including wizards, elves, dwarves, and humans, and faces numerous challenges and dangers. The vividly imagined world of Middle-earth and its rich history and mythology make this a must-read for any fantasy fan.
Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling
The Harry Potter series is a beloved fantasy classic that has enchanted readers of all ages. Set in the magical world of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, the series follows the adventures of young wizard Harry Potter and his friends as they battle the dark wizard Lord Voldemort. With its unforgettable characters, intricate plot, and magical setting, the Harry Potter series is a true masterpiece of the fantasy genre.
The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
The Chronicles of Narnia is a classic series of seven books that tells the story of a magical world called Narnia and the adventures of a group of children who find themselves transported there. The series is full of action, adventure, and memorable characters, including the noble lion Aslan and the villainous White Witch. The imaginative world of Narnia and its underlying Christian themes make this series a beloved classic for readers of all ages.
The Earthsea Cycle by Ursula K. Le Guin
The Earthsea Cycle is a series of five books that explore the magical world of Earthsea and its inhabitants. The books follow the adventures of young wizard Ged as he navigates the challenges of mastering magic and facing dark forces that threaten the balance of the world. The series is notable for its lyrical prose, well-drawn characters, and thought-provoking themes.
The Wheel of Time Series by Robert Jordan
The Wheel of Time is a sprawling epic fantasy series that spans 14 books and thousands of pages. Set in a detailed and immersive world, the series follows the journey of young farm boy Rand al’Thor as he discovers his destiny as the Dragon Reborn, the one prophesied to defeat the Dark One and save the world. With its complex plot, vast cast of characters, and richly imagined world, The Wheel of Time is a must-read for any serious fantasy fan.
A Song of Ice and Fire Series by George R.R. Martin
A Song of Ice and Fire is a gritty and complex epic fantasy series that has been adapted into the wildly popular HBO show Game of Thrones. Set in the fictional world of Westeros, the series follows a vast cast of characters as they navigate the treacherous political landscape and fight for power and survival. With its realistic characters, complex plot, and intricate world-building, A Song of Ice and Fire is a true masterpiece of the genre.
Relatively New Fantasy Books
The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang
The Poppy War is a dark and immersive fantasy novel that draws inspiration from Chinese history and mythology. The story follows a young orphan named Rin as she studies at an elite military academy and becomes embroiled in a brutal war that threatens the future of her nation. With its richly imagined world, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes, The Poppy War is a must-read for fans of dark fantasy.
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon – The Priory of the Orange Tree is an epic standalone fantasy novel that spans continents and follows multiple characters as they navigate a world threatened by an ancient evil. With its richly imagined world, diverse cast of characters, and intricate plot, The Priory of the Orange Tree is a must-read for fans of epic fantasy.
The City We Became by N.K. Jemisin
The City We Became is a unique and imaginative urban fantasy novel set in a version of New York City where the city itself is alive and fighting against an interdimensional threat. The story follows a diverse cast of characters as they come together to protect their city and save the world. With its unique concept, well-drawn characters, and thrilling plot, The City We Became is a standout novel in the fantasy genre.
The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna
The Gilded Ones is a compelling and thought-provoking young adult fantasy novel that explores themes of identity, belonging, and power. The story follows a young woman named Deka as she discovers that she has special abilities and is recruited into an elite group of warriors who fight against demons. With its powerful themes, complex characters, and exciting plot, The Gilded Ones is a standout novel in the young adult fantasy genre.
Black Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse
Black Sun is an immersive and vividly imagined epic fantasy novel inspired by pre-Columbian cultures in the Americas. The story follows a diverse cast of characters as they navigate a world filled with political intrigue, magical powers, and ancient prophecies. With its unique world-building, well-drawn characters, and thrilling plot, Black Sun is a must-read for fans of epic fantasy.
The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune
The House in the Cerulean Sea is a charming and heartwarming fantasy novel that follows a bureaucrat named Linus Baker as he travels to an isolated island to investigate a group of magical orphans. With its lovable characters, whimsical setting, and uplifting themes, The House in the Cerulean Sea is a feel-good novel that is sure to delight readers of all ages.
If you’re intrigued by the magical world of The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune, then be sure to check out our in-depth review of The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune for even more insight into this charming and heartwarming story.
And if you’re looking for even more books to transport you to another world, check out our blog post Explore Magical Worlds with These Books Similar to The House of The Cerulean Sea on similar books that are sure to satisfy your craving for adventure and magic!
Whether you’re a long-time fan of the fantasy genre or just looking for a way to escape reality for a while, the books on this Top Fantasy Books list offer something for everyone. From epic tales of adventure and political intrigue to heartwarming stories of love and friendship, these books are sure to transport you to another world and leave you longing for more. So grab a copy of one (or all!) of these books, settle in, and let yourself be transported to a realm of magic, wonder, and adventure. Happy reading!
This is a great list!! Totally agree but I haven’t read Black Sun or City We Became. I do own both and hope to read them sometime soon though! 🙂
Thanks for dropping by! Trust me, those two books are pure gems waiting to be discovered. Don’t miss out on the chance to read them!
I love Brandon Sanderson’s books!