Fantasy literature has long been a genre that captivates readers with its blend of imagination, world-building, and escapism. From epic adventures to poignant character journeys, fantasy books have taken readers on unforgettable journeys to realms that exist only in the imagination. But when it comes to determining the very best fantasy books, it can be a daunting task. Esquire, one of the leading magazines in the realm of cultural commentary, compiled a list of the top 20 best fantasy books that have left an indelible mark on readers and the genre as a whole.
In this article, we will explore these 20 essential fantasy books, offering detailed descriptions of each, their contributions to the genre, and why they are widely regarded as the best. Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy fan or a newcomer to the genre, this list will guide you through some of the most influential works that have shaped modern fantasy.
20 Fantasy Books That’ll Transport You to Better Worlds
1. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings is the cornerstone of modern fantasy literature. Published between 1954 and 1955, the trilogy follows the journey of Frodo Baggins and his companions as they attempt to destroy the One Ring to prevent the dark lord Sauron from conquering Middle-earth. Tolkien’s intricate world-building, expansive lore, and richly developed characters have set the gold standard for epic fantasy. The trilogy is not only a thrilling adventure but also a profound exploration of friendship, sacrifice, and the fight against evil.
2. A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin
George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series, beginning with A Game of Thrones (1996), is known for its morally complex characters, political intrigue, and brutal twists. The series is set in the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos, where noble families vie for control of the Iron Throne. Martin’s mastery of intricate plotlines, his willingness to kill off major characters, and his exploration of themes like power, betrayal, and ambition have made this series a cultural phenomenon, particularly with its adaptation into the HBO show Game of Thrones.
3. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
Before The Lord of the Rings, J.R.R. Tolkien introduced readers to Middle-earth with The Hobbit (1937). The story follows Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who is reluctantly swept into an adventure with dwarves and the wizard Gandalf to recover stolen treasure from the dragon Smaug. Though shorter and more lighthearted than its sequel, The Hobbit is a seminal work that introduces readers to Tolkien’s richly detailed world and lays the foundation for The Lord of the Rings. It’s a perfect entry point into the world of Middle-earth.
4. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
The Name of the Wind (2007) is the first book in The Kingkiller Chronicle series by Patrick Rothfuss. The novel follows Kvothe, a legendary figure who recounts his life story, from his childhood as an orphan to his time at a prestigious university where he learns magic. Rothfuss’s lyrical prose, unique magic system, and deep exploration of Kvothe’s character have earned the book a devoted following. It’s a tale of ambition, tragedy, and the quest for knowledge, and it’s often praised for its narrative structure and world-building.
5. The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch
Scott Lynch’s The Lies of Locke Lamora (2006) is a heist fantasy novel set in the city of Camorr, a dangerous and vibrant world inspired by Venice. The book follows Locke Lamora, a master thief and con artist, as he leads a group of criminals known as the Gentlemen Bastards. With witty dialogue, complex schemes, and a richly detailed setting, The Lies of Locke Lamora stands out as one of the most engaging and enjoyable fantasy novels in recent memory. It’s a thrilling ride full of twists and turns, with a protagonist who’s both charming and morally dubious.
6. The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
Samantha Shannon’s The Priory of the Orange Tree (2019) is a high fantasy novel set in a world where dragons play a central role in the fate of nations. The story weaves together multiple perspectives, from a dragon-riding queen to a dragon-riding dragon-rider and a group of rebels. Shannon’s debut standalone novel combines epic world-building, feminist themes, and a diverse cast of characters. It’s a tale of power, loyalty, and the struggle against an ancient, destructive force. Fans of dragons and strong female leads will find this book to be a captivating read.
7. The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan
The Wheel of Time series, beginning with The Eye of the World (1990), is one of the longest and most ambitious epic fantasy series in existence. Spanning fourteen books (with a final book completed by Brandon Sanderson after Robert Jordan’s death), the series follows Rand al’Thor, a young man who discovers he is the prophesied Dragon Reborn, destined to face the Dark One in a battle that will determine the fate of the world. Jordan’s intricate world-building, detailed magic system, and the series’ vast array of characters have earned it a place as one of the definitive works of fantasy.
8. Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson
Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn series, starting with Mistborn: The Final Empire (2006), is set in a world where the Dark Lord has triumphed, and a small group of rebels must band together to overthrow his reign. The magic system in Mistborn is unique, based on “Allomancy,” where users gain powers by ingesting and “burning” specific metals. Sanderson’s world-building is exceptional, and his exploration of power dynamics, class struggles, and personal growth makes Mistborn a standout in modern fantasy.
9. The Broken Earth Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin
N.K. Jemisin’s The Broken Earth trilogy, beginning with The Fifth Season (2015), is a stunning blend of science fiction and fantasy. Set in a world plagued by constant seismic activity, the series follows a cast of characters with the ability to control and survive earthquakes. Jemisin’s world-building is rich, and her themes of oppression, survival, and environmental disaster resonate deeply. The trilogy won numerous awards, including Hugo Awards for every book, making Jemisin the first author to win three consecutive Hugo Awards for Best Novel.
10. The Black Prism by Brent Weeks
The Black Prism (2010) is the first book in The Lightbringer series by Brent Weeks. The novel introduces a world where people can manipulate light to create powerful “Luxin” and use it in various ways, such as creating weapons and armor. The story follows Gavin Guile, the world’s most powerful person, as he grapples with political intrigue, war, and his own personal struggles. Weeks’s complex characters, thought-provoking themes, and unique magic system make The Black Prism a captivating read for fans of epic fantasy.
11. The Darkness That Comes Before by R. Scott Bakker
R. Scott Bakker’s The Darkness That Comes Before (2003) is the first book in The Prince of Nothing series. Set in a world filled with complex political and religious intrigue, the novel follows a diverse group of characters, including a warrior named Kellhus, who is determined to unravel a mysterious and dangerous prophecy. Bakker’s exploration of philosophy, religion, and human nature, combined with his deep world-building, makes this series one of the most thought-provoking and intense in the genre.
12. The First Law Trilogy by Joe Abercrombie
Joe Abercrombie’s The First Law trilogy, beginning with The Blade Itself (2006), is a dark and gritty take on the epic fantasy genre. Set in a world where moral ambiguity reigns, the series follows a group of flawed characters, including a barbarian, a torturer, and a nobleman, as they navigate politics, war, and personal conflict. Abercrombie’s sharp writing, complex characters, and exploration of violence and power have made The First Law trilogy a fan favorite.
13. The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien
While The Lord of the Rings is considered a trilogy, the first book, The Fellowship of the Ring (1954), stands out on its own as a monumental work in fantasy literature. It introduces the characters of Frodo, Aragorn, Gandalf, and the rest of the fellowship as they begin their perilous journey to destroy the One Ring. Tolkien’s masterful storytelling and the richly detailed setting of Middle-earth make this book a classic that continues to resonate with readers around the world.
14. The Dark Tower by Stephen King
Stephen King’s The Dark Tower series, starting with The Gunslinger (1982), blends elements of fantasy, horror, and science fiction. The series follows Roland, the last gunslinger, on his quest to reach the Dark Tower, a mythical structure at the center of all universes. King’s world-building, along with his mix of genres and philosophical musings on fate, destiny, and the nature of existence, has earned The Dark Tower a dedicated fanbase. The series is a complex, multi-layered narrative that rewards careful reading.
15. The Magicians by Lev Grossman
Lev Grossman’s The Magicians (2009) is often referred to as Harry Potter for adults. The novel follows Quentin Coldwater, a teenager who discovers that the magical world he has always dreamed of is not as idyllic as he imagined. The Magicians is a darker, more cynical take on the fantasy genre, with themes of disillusionment, identity, and the search for meaning. Grossman’s exploration of the complexities of magic, growing up, and the human condition makes this series stand out in modern fantasy.
16. The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
Though The Shadow of the Wind (2001) is often categorized as literary fiction, it blends elements of fantasy, gothic fiction, and mystery. Set in post-World War II Barcelona, the novel follows a young boy named Daniel as he uncovers the secrets of a forgotten book and the mysterious author behind it. Zafón’s rich writing, atmospheric setting, and intricate plot make this a must-read for fans of books that blur genre lines.
17. The Song of the Shattered Sands by Bradley P. Beaulieu
Bradley P. Beaulieu’s The Song of the Shattered Sands series, beginning with Twelve Kings in Sharakhai (2015), is set in a desert world inspired by Arabian and Persian cultures. The novel follows a young woman named Çeda, who seeks revenge against the Twelve Kings who rule the city. With a richly detailed world, a complex magic system, and a compelling plot, this series has garnered praise for its unique setting and the depth of its characters.
18. The Sword of Shannara by Terry Brooks
Terry Brooks’s The Sword of Shannara (1977) was one of the first major epic fantasy novels published after The Lord of the Rings, and it helped lay the groundwork for the fantasy genre in the decades that followed. The story follows Shea Ohmsford, a young man who must wield a legendary sword to defeat an evil warlock. While the novel has been criticized for its similarities to Tolkien’s work, its success sparked a new wave of epic fantasy novels, making it a seminal text in the genre.
19. The Inheritance Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin
N.K. Jemisin’s The Inheritance Trilogy is a trilogy that explores themes of family, revenge, and divine politics. Set in a world where gods are bound to serve mortals, the series begins with The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms (2010) and follows Yeine Darr, a woman caught in a struggle for power between her family and the gods. Jemisin’s exploration of power dynamics, family relationships, and the nature of divinity make this trilogy a standout in modern fantasy.
20. The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson
Brandon Sanderson’s The Stormlight Archive is an epic fantasy series that begins with The Way of Kings (2010). The series is set in a world constantly ravaged by storms, where knights wield magical armor and weapons. The novel follows multiple characters, including Kaladin Stormblessed, a former slave turned soldier, and Shallan Davar, a noblewoman with a hidden secret. Sanderson’s intricate world-building, unique magic system, and compelling characters have made this series one of the most popular in modern fantasy.
Conclusion
The 20 best fantasy books, as compiled by Esquire, showcase the immense variety and depth of the genre. From the foundational works of Tolkien to the modern masterpieces of Sanderson, Jemisin, and others, these books represent the finest in fantasy literature. Whether you’re seeking epic adventures, complex characters, or thought-provoking themes, these novels will transport you to fantastical worlds and leave you with a lasting impression. Fantasy literature continues to evolve, but these books will always remain essential reading for anyone looking to explore the best the genre has to offer.
