7 High Fantasy Books You Need To Read In 2026

High fantasy has a unique magic of its own—it doesn’t just tell a story; it builds entire worlds, cultures, and histories that feel as real as our own. From towering castles and mystical forests to intricate political intrigue and legendary heroes, the genre invites readers to escape reality while reflecting on timeless human truths.

Below is a list of 7 high fantasy books you need to read in 2026.

1. Uprooted by Naomi Novik

Naomi Novik’s Uprooted is a captivating standalone fantasy inspired by Eastern European folklore. It follows Agnieszka, a young woman chosen to serve a powerful, enigmatic wizard known as the Dragon, in exchange for his protection of her village. The novel blends magic, nature, and personal growth, exploring themes of courage, self-discovery, and the consequences of unchecked power. Novik’s prose is lyrical, and her magic system—rooted in the mystical energy of the forest—is both imaginative and vivid. Uprooted demonstrates that high fantasy can deliver a complete, immersive story with emotional depth and moral complexity, all in a single volume.

2. Bridge of Birds by Barry Hughart

Bridge of Birds is a standalone fantasy novel inspired by Chinese folklore, following Master Li and the strongman Number Ten Ox on a quest to save a village from a mysterious plague. Barry Hughart’s writing blends humor, adventure, and myth, creating a world that is imaginative, whimsical, and culturally rich. Themes of loyalty, wisdom, and courage underpin the narrative, while the story’s intricate puzzles and clever solutions keep readers engaged. This novel demonstrates that high fantasy can combine charm, depth, and cultural authenticity, offering a unique experience that feels both epic and delightfully personal.

3. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

Erin Morgenstern’s The Night Circus is a magical, atmospheric standalone fantasy centered on a mysterious traveling circus that appears without warning. At its heart is a competition between two young magicians, Celia and Marco, whose fates are bound by powerful, unseen forces. Morgenstern’s prose is lush, evocative, and dreamlike, creating a circus that feels alive with enchantment. Themes of love, choice, and the cost of ambition permeate the story, while the nonlinear narrative and intricate details reward careful reading. This novel demonstrates that high fantasy can be intimate, immersive, and emotionally rich, even without sprawling battles or epic quests.

4. Tigana by Guy Gavriel Kay

Tigana is a standalone epic by Guy Gavriel Kay that tells the story of a people struggling to reclaim their erased homeland from a tyrannical sorcerer. Kay explores themes of memory, identity, and resistance, crafting a world that is politically complex and emotionally resonant. The narrative blends personal journeys with sweeping historical and magical context, emphasizing the cost of oppression and the resilience of culture. Kay’s poetic prose and nuanced characters create a deeply immersive reading experience, proving that a single novel can rival the scope and emotional depth of multi-book fantasy epics.

5. Elantris by Brandon Sanderson

Elantris is Brandon Sanderson’s debut novel, presenting a self-contained high fantasy world where once-godlike beings are cursed to a decaying, powerless existence. The story follows Sarene, Raoden, and Hrathen as they navigate political intrigue, religious tension, and a society on the brink of collapse. Sanderson’s hallmark rigorous magic system and strategic plotting are on full display, offering readers both intellectual engagement and emotional depth. Themes of redemption, societal transformation, and hope in the face of despair resonate strongly, making Elantris a perfect standalone for readers seeking a complete, satisfying high fantasy experience.

6. The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch

Scott Lynch’s The Lies of Locke Lamora offers a fresh, witty take on high fantasy, blending crime, political intrigue, and adventure. Following Locke Lamora and his gang of thieves in the Venetian-inspired city of Camorr, the novel emphasizes clever schemes, deception, and survival in a dangerous world. Lynch’s characters are morally complex and full of personality, making readers root for their audacious exploits despite their flaws. Themes of loyalty, friendship, and cunning over brute force are central, while the richly imagined setting adds depth.

7. Tooth and Claw by Jo Walton

Jo Walton’s Tooth and Claw is a unique standalone fantasy where dragons mirror the complexities of Victorian society. The story explores family dynamics, inheritance disputes, and societal expectations, but with dragons as the central characters. Walton’s world-building is meticulous, showing how culture, honor, and hierarchy operate in a dragon society. Themes of power, duty, and ambition are explored through both personal and political lenses. The novel blends satirical commentary with high fantasy elements, making it intellectually stimulating while still providing the immersive world-building and epic stakes fans love.

Conclusion

High fantasy is more than just tales of magic and adventure—it’s a journey into vivid worlds that reflect the depth of human emotion, morality, and imagination. Each story offers not only entertainment but also insights into courage, leadership, and the complexities of good and evil.

Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy reader or just beginning your journey, diving into these masterpieces will expand your imagination, challenge your thinking, and leave a lasting impact. Start with one of these worlds today, embrace the adventure, and let yourself be carried away by the endless possibilities that high fantasy offers.