By integrating fantastical aspects with thrilling adventures, magic, and otherworldly phenomena, the best fantasy books provide a welcome diversion from the mundane. Good fantasy books usually delve into deeper issues that may be understood in our mundane, magic-free reality, whether the protagonist is on a mission to save their society or must face a horrifying reality about their abilities. Throughout the top fantasy book series' several volumes, the reader can lose themselves in a fantastical world. Creating a fictional universe complete with its mythology, lore, and customs is a crucial aspect of fantasy literature. Both time-honoured favourites and cutting-edge, critically acclaimed works in the fantasy genre are included on this list of the finest novels and series of all time.
The best fantasy books of all time
Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
J.R.R. Tolkien is one of the few authors who can delight his readers. Perhaps this is his greatest strength as a writer. Happiness builds to a crescendo, an explosion, in the last six chapters or so of the novel, but you will feel it intermittently throughout. Unlike the vast majority of popular culture, which is characterised by gloom, aggression, or sin, The Lord of the Rings novels have the unique quality of making you happy for the right reasons. The feeling is the purest kind of pleasure imaginable; it has nothing to do with sin or materialistic pursuits. Neither is it simplistic nor naïve. Interested in fantasy novels but have never read one before? Begin with The Hobbit: Though not directly related to the Lord of the Rings trilogy, it is a great introduction to the world and characters in the other two books. Being a stand-alone children's adventure narrative, it's also a fast read. Simply put, it's a delightful daydream. Furthermore, it's a useful way to ease into Tolkien's style if you're unfamiliar with it, as LOTR is thick at points. Truly one of the best fantasy books of all time!
Game of Thrones by George R.R Martin
Those who like Game of Thrones will adore Martin's extensive research on the families of Westeros and beyond. Reading Martin's extensive background will help you understand the complexities of the relationships on Game of Thrones, just as Bran learnt more about the world through his visions as the Three-Eyed Raven. One of the best fantasy books of all time, this series delves deep into multiple prophecies! For example, Game of Thrones depicts young Cersei receiving a prophecy about her future, and Melisandre is never shy about bringing up "the prince that was promised". Prophecies play a significant role in the show, but they take on an even stronger role in the books, such as when Cersei learns that her younger brother will kill her along with her children. Knowing Martin's views on the prophecies and family histories lets you make even crazier predictions about Game of Thrones. He is deserving of your utmost respect since he created the plot and characters and established the tone for Benioff and Weiss. One of the top fantasy books to read if you are interested!
The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S Lewis
An infamously Christian portrayal of Jesus' crucifixion, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe kicks off C.S. Lewis's tale, which is among the most well-known children's books of all time. Here, the adventures in the enchanted kingdom of Narnia begin, where talking animals, witches, and even the odd human make an appearance. Despite being published over 70 years ago, the seven volumes continue to sell well and have inspired several fantasy film and television adaptations. Anyone seeking an entry point to the fantastic should start with this series. Tales that have stood the test of time – this is truly one of the best fantasy books!
_1683682611133_thumb_300.png)
The best fantasy books of the contemporary age
Binti by Nnedi Okorafor
Binti and her family are ecstatic when they learn that their daughter will have the opportunity to attend the esteemed Oomza University. However, an ambush befalls her starship en route, leaving her the sole survivor. With her assailants still on board, she must now survive the rest of the journey. The first book in the series received the esteemed Hugo and Nebula awards, and a television adaptation is currently in development. This book is most likely to appeal to readers who are interested in the history of Africa, and everything fantasy and women-led!
An Ember in the Ashes series by Sabaa Tahir
The trilogy follows the story of Laia, a rebel agent who sacrifices her family's social status in the Martial Empire to rescue her brother from the clutches of the governing party. In the first volume, the ruthless dictatorship persecutes both Laia and Elias, who switch first-person narratives. The critically acclaimed series was well-received, and Time magazine included the first book in their list of the 100 greatest fantasy books of all time. If you are a lover of young adult fantasy, you will love this novel.
_1726374898904_thumb_300.jpeg)
Circe by Madeline Miller
After Circe uses her magic to harm the gods, her apathetic celestial family banishes her from their midst. Despite her upbringing as a witch, her family ignores her abilities, deeming her unattractive. Her boyfriend Odysseus, is only one of many classic Greek figures she meets in this mythologically rich novel. This book became a critical favourite in no time at all because of Miller's amazing lyricism and inventiveness in reworking old tales. The Women's Prize for Fiction included it on its shortlist. Mythology lovers will love this book.