7 Books Every Fantasy Fan Must Read

Fantasy is more than a genre—it’s a gateway to worlds woven with magic, courage, and the complexities of being human. Whether we’re journeying alongside brave adventurers, confronting ancient powers, or witnessing empires rise and fall, the best fantasy books leave us changed. Below is a list of 7 books every fantasy fan must read.

These books are chosen for their cultural influence, timeless themes, immersive worldbuilding, and captivating characters that stay with us long after the last page is turned.

1. The Blade Itself – Joe Abercrombie

Darkly humorous and brutally realistic, The Blade Itself introduces readers to the First Law Trilogy—a cornerstone of modern grimdark fantasy. Abercrombie’s characters are complex, morally questionable, and wildly entertaining: a barbarian who hates fighting, a nobleman obsessed with status, and a torturer wrestling with guilt. The world is unforgiving, where survival often requires compromise and heroes don’t shine—they bleed. With razor-sharp dialogue and relentless pacing, the story dismantles fantasy tropes while still delivering action, heart, and surprising emotion. It’s a brilliant choice for readers who enjoy gritty realism, flawed humanity, and sharp political tension.

2. The Lies of Locke Lamora – Scott Lynch

Clever, gritty, and full of swagger, The Lies of Locke Lamora follows the Gentleman Bastards—a band of master thieves navigating the criminal labyrinth of Camorr. Locke’s wit, bold schemes, and fierce loyalty create a protagonist readers instantly root for. Lynch excels at sharp dialogue, high-risk heists, and sudden emotional gut punches that reveal the brutal consequences of living outside the law. Themes of friendship, revenge, and identity drive the story beyond typical crime fiction. It’s perfect for those who enjoy morally gray characters, intricate plots, and fantasy settings with the chaotic charm of a Venetian underworld.

3. The Name of the Wind – Patrick Rothfuss

The Name of the Wind is a lyrical, character-focused fantasy that immerses us in the life of Kvothe: orphan, scholar, musician, and future legend. Told in his own voice, the book explores what it means to be gifted yet burdened by trauma and longing. Rothfuss blends beautiful prose with a magical world structured around knowledge, music, and mystery. The narrative delves into love, identity, and the stories we tell to survive. It’s intimate rather than epic, showing that great fantasy doesn’t need armies to feel powerful. Readers who appreciate emotional depth and elegant writing will treasure this masterpiece.

4. The Shadow of the Gods – John Gwynne

Inspired by Norse mythology, The Shadow of the Gods launches a bold new saga set in a land scarred by the fall of ancient gods. Warriors, monsters, and hidden magic collide as three compelling characters chase vengeance, truth, and honor through a world full of danger. Gwynne excels at visceral combat, emotional stakes, and morally complex motivations that feel grounded and real. Themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and family drive the narrative, giving weight to every triumph and loss. With cinematic worldbuilding and tension that builds to explosive battles, this book is perfect for fans craving high-stakes, myth-infused epic fantasy.

5. The Hobbit – J.R.R. Tolkien

The Hobbit is a charming yet impactful adventure that introduces us to Middle-earth through Bilbo Baggins, a humble homebody who discovers unexpected courage. Alongside dwarves, wizards, and a fearsome dragon, Bilbo confronts danger while discovering his own bravery. Tolkien’s storytelling blends humor, heart, and mythic themes without ever feeling heavy. Beneath the whimsy lies a powerful message: true heroism often comes from those who least expect to find it in themselves. Its accessibility and timeless spirit make it a perfect entry into fantasy, while its deeper layers continue to resonate with readers of every generation.

6. The Way of Kings – Brandon Sanderson

In The Way of Kings, Sanderson introduces Roshar, a world battered by magical storms and shaped by ancient mysteries. Three central characters—Kaladin, Dalinar, and Shallan—struggle with trauma, honor, and the search for purpose in a society on the brink of change. Sanderson’s signature strengths shine here: a meticulously crafted magic system, morally complex characters, and epic stakes that escalate with every chapter. It’s a story about leadership, compassion, and the courage to stand again after being broken. Fans who crave sweeping worldbuilding and emotional depth will find this a modern masterpiece destined to define the genre for decades.

7. The Priory of the Orange Tree – Samantha Shannon

The Priory of the Orange Tree delivers a sweeping standalone epic centered around dragons, divided kingdoms, and a lineage tied to ancient prophecy. Shannon builds a rich world inspired by both Eastern and Western myth, featuring diverse cultures, powerful women, and political intrigue that feels timely and relevant. The narrative explores themes of duty, faith, and the courage to reshape destiny despite centuries of fear and oppression. Beautifully paced with breathtaking battles and heartfelt character arcs, this novel proves that epic fantasy doesn’t need a long series to feel vast. It’s perfect for readers seeking inclusivity, depth, and unforgettable adventure.

Conclusion

Fantasy literature invites us to dream in worlds where courage matters, ordinary people rise to greatness, and magic reminds us that wonder still exists. The 7 books every fantasy fan must read aren’t just stories—they’re milestones that have shaped the entire genre. Each offers a unique doorway: some lead to sweeping wars between good and evil, others reveal the quiet battles we fight within ourselves.

These books challenge, heal, and ignite creativity, reminding us that even in darkness, hope is a powerful kind of magic.

So choose the book that calls to you. Pack your curiosity and sense of wonder. Then turn the first page—because every unforgettable adventure begins with reading just one.