Love fantasy novels? Hate wasting time reading trash? Then read this definitive guide to the top 25 fantasy books in the genre.
These are the creme de la creme of the fantasy genre. I've carefully chosen the top 25 fantasy books from hundreds of series and thousands of books. In my 20 or so years of devouring fantasy books, certain fantasy books have really stood out far above the rest. This list contains these books.
The Top 25 Fantasy Books list selects from a wide range of fantasy, from epic fantasy to detective fantasy, from well known series to obscure Fantasy, and from old fantasy books to brand new fantasy releases.
To include is to exclude, and alas, this list short and the fantasy books out there many. If my omission of your favorite author offends, my apologies, but you can? please everyone. For each fantasy book recommendation, I try to give some compelling reasons why the book stands out as one of the best fantasy books in the genre. I acknowledge that judging books is like judging beauty: it's in the eye of the beholder. Some people may like a book while others do not.
If you want to hear what other people are saying about these fantasy books, check out the comment link above each book. From time to time, people weigh in on the book and give their own opinion regarding how they liked or dislike the books. You might also want to check out the new Web 2.0 Community Book Review section. You can view fellow peer reviews on fantasy books, movies, and games; submit new book review suggestions of your favorite book and write small amazon-style reviews that will appear on the site!
Each of the books on this list makes for some fantastic fantasy reading. Now you may notice that most (but not all) of these fantasy books are part of a series. You can read my the best fantasy books are usually part of a series for more details if you wish.
Read the Great Fantasy Books list for must-read Fantasy books that almost made the Top 25 Fantasy Books list. If you've read everything on Great Fantasy Books list, then check out the Good Fantasy Books list. These three lists contain some of the best fantasy books out there.
Check out the Top 10 Speculative Fiction Book Lists for other (specific) fantasy and science fiction recommendation lists. And if you want to become part of our growing fantasy community, feel free to join the fantasy book forums.
Note: the list has (finally) been updated as of JULY 7,2010 to reflect all the great books that have come out the past two years. I've completely reorganized the list, replaced 7 of the entries with new authors/books, added to the various descriptions of the books, and put in new "similar recommendations" for quite a few of the books. The old entries that got bumped have put added to the Great Fantasy Books list. Enjoy!
#1: A Game of Thrones (George R.R. Martin)
This brilliant series starts with A Game of Thrones. What can I say
about this series other then read it! It's well-regarded as the best fantasy series. Martin's books have been the top of this list for years and despite his delayed release of the 5th in the series (Dance for Dragons), his works still stand out as some of the best in the genre. You owe it to yourself to read this series.
Martin writes with flair, deftly weaving multiple storylines in a gritty, even brutal,
world that consists entirely of gray characters instead of the classic black and white. It's a vast chess game spanning continents, and the pieces are lords, bastards, knights, wizards, ladies, and children. What really stands out in this series is Martin's penchant for axing the major characters. That's right. No character is safe from the author's noose. Despite the demise
of major characters, the plot lines continue stronger than ever. Tired of protagonists walking through fire without a scratch, falling hundreds of feet without a bruise, and defeating superhuman creatures with the same amount of effort that one puts into scratching an arm? Then this series is your fix. The sheer unpredictability of the series renders a delectable experience. Dare you to predict the winners and losers? If you haven't read the series yet, read it! Chances are, you're going to be calling in sick the next day. It's that good.
Similar recommendations:
If you like Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire saga, try David Anthony Durham's Acacia. It's very similar to A Song of Ice and Fire. It's the first of a series, but what a first book. The sequel is due to be released sometime this year (2010). You might also give Patrick Rothfuss's The Name of the Wind a gander; it's also one of my top picks and if you like Martin, I'll bet money you'll also appreciate Rothfuss's book. Also read Greg Keyes' The Briar King, the first in his (now completed) quadrilogy which features delicious prose, gritty realism and an enticing plot. You can also try R. Scott Bakker's The Darkness That Comes Before, which features superlative prose, a unique, but fascinating storyline, and the gritty realism that Martin exhibits. It's also a heck of a lot more philosophical too, which may or may not be something you like. You might also like Tad Williams newest fantasy saga: Shadowmarch. It's got some similar themes and is getting pretty good (as of book 3).
If you like Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire saga, try David Anthony Durham's Acacia. It's very similar to A Song of Ice and Fire. It's the first of a series, but what a first book. The sequel is due to be released sometime this year (2010). You might also give Patrick Rothfuss's The Name of the Wind a gander; it's also one of my top picks and if you like Martin, I'll bet money you'll also appreciate Rothfuss's book. Also read Greg Keyes' The Briar King, the first in his (now completed) quadrilogy which features delicious prose, gritty realism and an enticing plot. You can also try R. Scott Bakker's The Darkness That Comes Before, which features superlative prose, a unique, but fascinating storyline, and the gritty realism that Martin exhibits. It's also a heck of a lot more philosophical too, which may or may not be something you like. You might also like Tad Williams newest fantasy saga: Shadowmarch. It's got some similar themes and is getting pretty good (as of book 3).
#2: The Malazan Book of the Fallen (Steven Erikson)
Since Tolkien, Fantasy has rarely been revolutionary, instead becoming more of an evolution and reinterpretation of Tolkien's original work. Well, I can honestly say Erickson's saga is revolutionary. No Fantasy book series is more epic in scope than The Malazan Book of the Fallen. His saga combines both military and epic fantasy into a delightful mix. Brilliant prose, epic storylines, gritty realism, fascinating mix of gray characters, Erickson combines the best of George R. Martin with the epic scope of the Greek Classics such as the Iliad and the Odyssey. One word when reading it:
epiphany. A refreshing change from the usual Robert Jordan-esque fantasy clones that pop up like weeds these days. There are quite a few books out in the series now (as of July 2010, 9 books) but the strength of the series has maintained itself throughout the many books, including the newest one!
Erikson is a prolific writer. The Malazan Book of the Fallen saga currently has 8 books as of December 2008 and has two more scheduled for release. Erikson co-created the Malazan world with Ian Cameron Esslemont. Esslemont's novels, which are set in the same world as Erikson's Malazan Book of the Fallen, are considered as canonical as Erickson's own. Esslemont's novels are called Novels of the Malazan Empire. Erikson also wrote several novellas (short novels) set in his Malazan world. His two novellas follow the storylines of Bauchelain, Korbal Broach and Emancipor Reese, three characters who appear briefly in Memories of Ice. I've listed all books from the Malazan universe. Read Malazan Book of the Fallen first, and if you can't get enough, read the Novels of the Malazan Empire books and the Novellas which follow some of Erikson's characters.
Click on the book images to get the Amazon book descriptions.
The Crippled God: The Malazan Book of the Fallen 10
Similar recommendations:
Similar recommendations: Malazan Book of the Fallen is in a class of it's own when it comes to big battles, powerful heroes, and gray morality. There's simply nothing out there quite like it, yet. But here are a few recommendations that you should try out, if you love this series. George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire saga also features an epic scope and the gray characterization
that Erickson so loves. Martin's' work is smaller is scale though and tends to be more focused, plot wise. You can also try Scott R. Baker's The Darkness That Comes Before saga, a series which has big battles and the black grittiness pioneered by Martin. Oath of Empires might be something you could try out; it's an alternative history saga, where the Roman Empire has never fallen and magic works. Oath of Empires is epic, featuring massive magical battles and huge opposing armies (Persian and Roman) clashing so hard you can hear the horses scream. Also give James Barclay's Cry of the Newborn a whirl which is similar in style and content (though less epic) to Erickson. It's an example of a Fantasy military fiction done right. Barclay also knows how to write damn good battles scenes, giving even Erikson a run for his money. Also give David Anthony Durham a try. His recent novel, Acacia
the book that has forever defined military fantasy and it's probably the "closest" you'll find to Malazan in terms of style and feeling.
#3: The Name of the Wind (Patrick Rothfuss)
Kvothe: Wizard, Villain, Warrior, Slave. Hero and villain of a thousand tales. But behind a legend, there is the simple story of a boy, a woman, and a world that will never be the same...
In one of the most remarkable fantasy debuts ever, Patrick Rothfuss joins the celebrated ranks of Martin, Erikson, and Tolkien as one of the master tale-spinners. The biography of the legend, The Name of the Wind delves deep into the inner workings of Kvothe, a boy who dares to challenge destiny. The Name of the Wind is Patrick Rothfuss's debut novel, but oh what a powerful debut it is! This is one tale you do not want to miss. Yes, Rothfuss has only written one book so far and we are still waiting with bated breathe for the second book in the series; depending on how good (or bad) it is, Rothfuss's position here may plummet or stay. But based on the sheer strength of the first novel, this book deserves an "interim" 3rd place on the list. Without a doubt, this book has created quite a stir in the fantasy community the past couple years. Read it.
Similar recommendations:
If you like The Name of the Wind, you might like Robin Hobb's The Farseer)
. Though the authors have a different style and radically different plots, both authors really delve deep into the mind of the protagonist. You really get to know the hero. Both stories are about the rise of a no-name boy into something great. I would also suggest you read Scott Lynch's The Lies of Locke Lamora. This is another book really does something special. Two other additions you might like are Peter V. Brett's The Warded Man (fantastic book) and Brandon Sanderson's Mist Born: The Final Empire. Another book you may end up liking is The Way of Shadows by Brent Weeks (book 1 of the Night Angel Trilogy).
If you like The Name of the Wind, you might like Robin Hobb's The Farseer
#4: Lord of the Rings (J.R.R Tolkien)
Do I even need to discuss it? The father of modern fantasy, the recreation of the English myth, an apex of English Literature; Lord of the Rings is more than mere Fantasy, it is both myth and a fictional history so real, so enticing, that it can be read as "real". Peter Jackson's movies capture the imagination of the books with astounding clarity -- yet at the same time, the books deliver a different yet equally satisfying experience. If we look at the sheer contribution these books have made to the genre, the series would rank #1. If you have not yet read this series, it's time to get it over with. And no, the movies are NOT the books.
Series Info
Tolkien's spent his life writing in the Lord of the Rings world. Tolkien pretty much has four "novel" type stories set in middle earth. I have listed them below in chronological order. Click on the book picture to get an Amazon book description. The Silmarillion is a prequel to the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings. It details the entire history of Middle Earth, how it was formed, describes the history of the First, Second, and Third ages. If you want to really know the history of Middle Earth, and read some of the old tales, read the Silmarillion -- it's sort of the pre-story of the Lord of the Rings, a history of Middle Earth.
Children of Hurin is Tolkien's old "new" novel that was recently released by his son, Christopher Tolkien. Christopher edited and completed one of Tolkien's unpublished works. It's a greatly expanded version of Chapter XXI of The Silmarillion, "Of Turin Turambar." and takes place long long before the Hobbit. The Hobbit is the precursor to The Lord of the Rings and pretty much a must read if you like Lord of the Rings. If you have never read Lord of the Rings, I suggest starting with the Hobbit then move on to Lord of the Rings. You can then read the Silmarillion and Children of Hurin
Trilogy
Prequel
Similar recommendations:
What can I possibly recommend if you like Lord of the Rings? 'Rings' is the progenitor of an entire genre. Regardless, I'll try and suggest a couple books based off the "feel" of Lord of the Rings.
Tolkien has always been about the world in which his characters live, never about the characters which live in his world. He created a world full of myth and legend, starkly real and full of mystery. There is always some strange power deep in a mountain, or some magical glade in the heart of a forest. There are worlds deep in the world, and worlds high in the heavens. It's a land full of wonder, a world too large to explore; it's an earth that still has mysteries and unknown lands.
There are several authors who recreate this type of world -- but with stronger characters and more meaningful relationships. Tolkien's characters were always too perfect, too evil; their motivations are at best unclear and at worst, unrealistic.
If you like Tolkien, read Eye of the World)
by Jordan. This man has claimed Tolkien's world building mantle: he's created a massive world, richly developed cultures, and well-defined magic system. When you read Jordan, you explore an ancient world full of secrets. I have to throw out a disclaimer though: Wheel of Time is far from perfect; Jordan becomes lost in his own world as it grows too big even for him; (some of) his
characters devolve into caricatures, and Jordan's handling of romance between characters is puerile to say the least. However, many people still find the books great fun, and if you like Tolkien's epic style, Jordan is a must read. Jordan died a few years ago, but the immensely talented Brandon Sanderson is finishing the series and looks to be doing a good job, if the last Wheel of Time was any indication.
If you want a book that's like Lord of the Rings but longer, has strong female characters, and very strong characterization (FAAR better than Jordan's), read Tad Williams' Memory, Sorrow, Thorn saga, another classic.
If you want the beautiful, almost lyrical writing of Tolkien and a world in which magic is present but still a grand mystery (i.e. not every character is throwing around magic like kids throwing sand at a beach), Sean Russell's The Swan's War)
is the answer. Ursula Le Guin's Earthsea Cycle)
is also a beautiful tale, full of lyrical, often sad, prose; a tale about a village boy who seeks his destiny. Patricia A. McKillip's Riddle-Master)
is also another series(trilogy) that brings back similarities to Tolkien's style.
For a 12th century version of Middle Earth set in a stark (English) European landscape that's as cold as the world is gritty and brutal, read George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire saga
tale. If you want to see some of Tolkien's conventions turned on their heads and enjoy a noir version of a classic high fantasy tale with starkly realized characters, read Joe Abercrombie's First Law)
trilogy.
#5 Gormenghast (Marvin Peake)What can I possibly recommend if you like Lord of the Rings? 'Rings' is the progenitor of an entire genre. Regardless, I'll try and suggest a couple books based off the "feel" of Lord of the Rings.
Tolkien has always been about the world in which his characters live, never about the characters which live in his world. He created a world full of myth and legend, starkly real and full of mystery. There is always some strange power deep in a mountain, or some magical glade in the heart of a forest. There are worlds deep in the world, and worlds high in the heavens. It's a land full of wonder, a world too large to explore; it's an earth that still has mysteries and unknown lands.
There are several authors who recreate this type of world -- but with stronger characters and more meaningful relationships. Tolkien's characters were always too perfect, too evil; their motivations are at best unclear and at worst, unrealistic.
If you like Tolkien, read Eye of the World
characters devolve into caricatures, and Jordan's handling of romance between characters is puerile to say the least. However, many people still find the books great fun, and if you like Tolkien's epic style, Jordan is a must read. Jordan died a few years ago, but the immensely talented Brandon Sanderson is finishing the series and looks to be doing a good job, if the last Wheel of Time was any indication.
If you want a book that's like Lord of the Rings but longer, has strong female characters, and very strong characterization (FAAR better than Jordan's), read Tad Williams' Memory, Sorrow, Thorn saga, another classic.
If you want the beautiful, almost lyrical writing of Tolkien and a world in which magic is present but still a grand mystery (i.e. not every character is throwing around magic like kids throwing sand at a beach), Sean Russell's The Swan's War
For a 12th century version of Middle Earth set in a stark (English) European landscape that's as cold as the world is gritty and brutal, read George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire saga
Description (Book)
A doomed lord, an emergent hero, and a dazzling array of bizarre creatures inhabit the magical world of the Gormenghast novels which, along with Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, reign as one of the undisputed fantasy classics of all time. At the center of it all is the seventy-seventh Earl, Titus Groan, who stands to inherit the miles of rambling stone and mortar that form Gormenghast Castle and its kingdom, unless the conniving Steerpike, who is determined to rise above his menial position and control the House of Groan, has his way.
First, this isn’t fantasy that you are used to. This is not Robert Jordan. This is not George R.R. Martin. This is not Steven Erikson. But yet, this is a novel deserves, no needs, to be read. It’s bizarre, haunting, joyless, gothic in the extreme and oh so rich in character and detail. The sheer sustained and imaginative power of this novel, the incredible attention to detail, and the stifling rigidity of the castle and cast of characters supersede pretty much every other work in the English language. Peake has been compared to Tolkien and even Charles Dickens – Gormenghast is literature in the purest sense but it’s also another side of the fantasy coin and deserving to be on the list as both one of the great works of the English language and a dizzyingly bizarre novel that refuses to be defined by any one genre. If you have a short attention span, having been weaned on the likes of magic rich, action heavy books like Feist and Jordan, you might not appreciate the richness of these novels. This description of the novel does seem ambiguous, but like the series itself, words cannot capture what it is. There are three novels in the series and the 3rd novel is disappointing, but the first two are like rich custard: delicious and sweet leaving you hungering for me. But if you value yourself as a true fan of the fantasy genre, the incredibly odd and totally endearing world of Gormenghast has to be experienced once. You will never, ever forget the characters. Read it and be changed forever.
Similar recommendations:
For a modern version of fantasy weird, give China Meiville a try. It's not in the same vein as Gormenghast, but Meiville is the head of one of the "new" schools of fantasy that aims for the weird and the bizarre. Oh, and he's a superbly talented author too. You might start with his Perdido Street Station.
For a modern version of fantasy weird, give China Meiville a try. It's not in the same vein as Gormenghast, but Meiville is the head of one of the "new" schools of fantasy that aims for the weird and the bizarre. Oh, and he's a superbly talented author too. You might start with his Perdido Street Station.
#6: Lies of Locke Lamora (Scott Lynch)
Description (Book Flap)
Lies of Locke Lamora is a grand adventure following the exploits of master thief and fraud, Locke Lamora. Leader of the Gentleman Bandits, Locke's flamboyantly carefree life of grand larceny comes to a crashing halt when someone who covets his talents forces Lamora to put his life on the line to protect all he holds dear...
A web of schemes and frauds weave the pattern that makes up the Lies of Locke Lamora. Scott Lynch establishes himself as a fearless storyteller, thrusting his characters into a world doused with intricate historical and cultural information. The writing is witty, the plot twisted, and the characters real. One of the most refreshing (and unique) novels to arrive on the fantasy scene, Lies of Locke Lamora is an entertaining read that delivers on every promise it makes. Those fantasy fans riding the new wave of fantasy, pioneered by George R. Martin, China Mieville, Steven Erikson, and Scott Bakker will be delighted with Scott's effort.
Two books out with the third soon to come.
Similar recommendations:
Give The Name of the Wind a try for another book with a very strongly characterized protagonist. I have a suspicion if you like Locke, you'll also appreciate The Warded Man too.
#7: Mistborn (Brandon Sanderson)
Description (Book)
For a thousand years the ash fell and no flowers bloomed. For a thousand years the Skaa slaved in misery and lived in fear. For a thousand years the Lord Ruler, the “Sliver of Infinity,” reigned with absolute power and ultimate terror, divinely invincible. Then, when hope was so long lost that not even its memory remained, a terribly scarred, heart-broken half-Skaa rediscovered it in the depths of the Lord Ruler’s most hellish prison. Kelsier “snapped” and found in himself the powers of a Mistborn. A brilliant thief and natural leader, he turned his talents to the ultimate caper, with the Lord Ruler himself as the mark.
Kelsier recruited the underworld’s elite, the smartest and most trustworthy allomancers, each of whom shares one of his many powers, and all of whom relish a high-stakes challenge. Only then does he reveal his ultimate dream, not just the greatest heist in history, but the downfall of the divine despot. But even with the best criminal crew ever assembled, Kel’s plan looks more like the ultimate long shot, until luck brings a ragged girl named Vin into his life. Like him, she’s a half-Skaa orphan, but she’s lived a much harsher life. Vin has learned to expect betrayal from everyone she meets, and gotten it. She will have to learn to trust, if Kel is to help her master powers of which she never dreamed.
Mistborn: The Final Empire is a strong novel (the start of a trilogy) that delivers something special the genre. Relentless action, characters you can empathize with, and a very strong plot. These books are right up there with some of the other fantasy greats like Martin, Hobb, Erikson, and company. Sanderson, like a few of the authors on the top 25 list, are fairly new players to the genre, but the man knows how to write a tale that keeps you up all night. It’s also nice to have an author who doesn't’t take four years between books in a series. So if you want to treat yourself to a unique magic system, great cast of characters, and one of the more endearing fantasy heroes you’ll read about (Kelsier), pick this book (and series) up. About his Books
Sanderson has been a prolific author since he was published only a few years ago. Elantis was his first book - a book I was thoroughly impressed with and highly recommend. It's a standalone book. His Mistborn trilogy are probably his best work to date. Warbreaker is another (possibly standalone but with a definite sequel) novel set in a different world, with the trade mark unique magic system that Sanderson is becoming famous for with each new series/book. His newest series is the Stormlight Archive which looks to be every bit as good as his Mistborn saga. Sanderson is also writing the last two books (now 3 books) of Jordan's Wheel of Time.
Mistborn Trilogy
Others
Similar recommendations:
There's a lot you'll probably like if Mistborn appeals. For books that feature a small band of heroes struggling against overwhelming odds (usually a Dark Lord or villain of incredible power), you have quite a few picks. One might argue most epic fantasy books (which defines like 95% of the books currently populating the genre right now). Here are the better books out there that feature this plot device but (with exception of Wheel of Time) do something new: The Wheel of Time, Tigana, First Law, The Steel Remains.
Description (Publisher)
Young Fitz is the bastard son of the noble Prince Chivalry, raised in the shadow of the royal court by his father's gruff stableman. He is treated like an outcast by all the royalty except the devious King Shrewd, who has him secretly tutored in the arts of the assassin. For in Fitz's blood runs the magic Skill--and the darker knowledge of a child raised with the stable hounds and rejected by his family. As barbarous raiders ravage the coasts, Fitz is growing to manhood. Soon he will face his first dangerous, soul-shattering mission. And though some regard him as a threat to the throne, he may just be the key to the survival of the kingdom. Hobb is one of the best characterization writers in the Fantasy genre. Her characters are vividly real, leaping out of the pages into our minds as living characters. She has no qualms about allowing her protagonist to suffer. If her protagonist falls into a pit, no Dues Ex Machina breaks the fall -- the protagonist will break both legs -- and likely the arms too. Her Farseer books are full of fantastic characters and an interesting, mysterious world to explore. Toss in a gripping plot, and these books make for some fantastic reads. Hobb's The Farseer trilogy is perhaps her greatest work (and she has written quite a few books). Even now with the fantasy genre being moved in new directions with the likes of Bakker, Martin, and Lynch, Hobb's works are still worthy to be on anyone's Top 10 fantasy book list.
About the Series
Hobb has written 4 trilogies set in the Farseer world, which are listed below (click on the appropriate image to get an Amazon book description). The Tawny Man trilogy is a direct sequel to the Farseer trilogy. Liveship Traders takes place in the same world as Tawny Man and Farseer, but in a different country. There is one character present in Liveship Traders that is present in the two Fritz trilogies. The Rainwilds Chronicles is Hobb's newest series and her latest foray into the Farseer world. It's a new story set in the Liveship Trader's part of the Farseer world with a new cast of characters (and some guest appearances).
The Farseer Trilogy
The Tawny Man Trilogy
Liveship Traders Trilogy
The Rain wild's Trilogy
Similar recommendations:
Guy Gaverial Kay's Tigana. This book is packed with emotion. If you like the emotional intensity and pathos of Hobb, you will love Tigana. It's also a no brainier to read her other books set in the same universe: Live Ship Traders trilogy (set in the same world, but different protagonist), and
Tawny Man trilogy (direct sequel to the Assassin trilogy). Also try her Soldier's Son Trilogy
fantasy about assassins, well you must read the Heroes Die
#9: The Warded Man (Peter V. Brett)
Description (Publisher)
As darkness falls after sunset, the corelings rise—demons who possess supernatural powers and burn with a consuming hatred of humanity. For hundreds of years the demons have terrorized the night, slowly culling the human herd that shelters behind magical wards—symbols of power whose origins are lost in myth and whose protection is terrifyingly fragile. It was not always this way. Once, men and women battled the corelings on equal terms, but those days are gone. Night by night the demons grow stronger, while human numbers dwindle under their relentless assault. Now, with hope for the future fading, three young survivors of vicious demon attacks will dare the impossible, stepping beyond the crumbling safety of the wards to risk everything in a desperate quest to regain the secrets of the past. Together, they will stand against the night.
Night is here and the demons have come out to play. This is the premise to Peter V. Brett's awesome The Warded Man. The tale told is one so good that it keeps you glued to the pages with nary a break until you flip that last page. The story is not perfect, but world created and the cast of characters are incredibly enticing. Don't expect some pithy, intelligent twist on the genre as in Abercrombie's Blade Itself or Bakker's Prince of Nothing, The Warded Man is all raw action and standard fantasy conventions (village boy), but if you want a really damn good book that won't let you sleep, read it. Also check out The Warded Man book review on my blog. The sequel has has been released a couple months ago and it's a good read, though not as good (I have a few complaints with how some of the characters interact and the way the story is structured). But overall, the Warded Man and it's sequel are some of the more exciting reads in the fantasy genre.
The Wheel of Time turns and Ages come and go, leaving memories that become legend. Legend fades to myth, and even myth is long forgotten when the Age that gave it birth returns again. In the Third Age, an Age of Prophecy, the World and Time themselves hang in the balance. What was, what will be, and what is, may yet fall under the Shadow...
I can truthfully say that Jordan is the King of Fantasy, if not in complexity, then in page count. This monstrously big series spans over 13 massive books (each at least 700 pages). Including "A Wheel of Time" on this list invariably riles certain people and it's probably, for some, the most controversial addition to this list. Why? The past several years a new type of fantasy has come to the fore of the genre: gone are the hopefully optimistic village boys wielding magic swords on a quest to defeat the impossible; in their place, a gritty fantasy has arisen; a stark genre where the very conventions of what it means to be a hero are challenged: worlds are made of gray not black and white; heroes may be both a villain and savior; love is powerful, but ultimately ephemeral; heroes die and villains live. It's complex stuff that is often genre blending.
Robert Jordan harkens back to the school days where village boys and dark lords chase each other endlessly across a However, I (still) strongly feel that Jordan still deserves a place amongst the top of the genre. Jordan
takes the classic fantasy trappings laid out by Tolkien, and weaves together a massively complex
tapestry of politics, kingdoms, and magic. You won't find another author that breaths as much life and depth
into a fictional world. In many ways, Jordan, like Tolkien, has defined (for better or worse) one aspect of the modern fantasy tale. And he's perhaps one of the most popular fantasy writers in the market now. Love him or hate him, you owe it to yourself to at least read the first book.
Yes, this book is still on the Top 25 list, despite the vehement protests left by some people in the comment section for this book. Jordan has left a lasting legacy on the fantasy genre and if you ignore some of his later flaws (and his handling of relationships between men and women for one), has written a worthy epic fantasy tale. The good news is that Brandon Sanderson appears to be doing a very good job of wrapping up Jordan's series (for those 2 people who don't know, Jordan died a few years ago leaving the series a few book short of complete) with the release of The Gathering Storm (12th book of the Wheel of Time).
If you are a fan of audiobooks (I am, I prefer audiobooks over reading!) you will definitely want to check out
the Audiobook version (Eye of the World)
I bought them and the Wheel of Time came alive an a whole new way.
The Wheel of Time: Complete Set of 12
Robert Jordan (Paperback) $149.95Box Sets
The Wheel of Time (Boxed Set #4: Crossroads of Twilight, The New Spring, Knife of Dreams) (The Wheel of Time, Boxed Set #4)
Similar recommendations:
Give George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire saga
strive to be. You thought those "Dragonlance" books were good? Feast on Martin for a taste of what Fantasy books should be like. You might also try Tracy Hickman & Margaret Weis's The Death Gate Cycle
large epic fantasy saga (six books) that shares some similarities with Jordan's Wheel of Time. West's writing style is drastically different that Jordan's, however -- far more subtle, and often ponderous. If you are an action freak, The Sun Sword pacing will probably be a bit too slow for you. You might also try Raymond
E. Feist's Magician
#11: Black Sun Rising (Cold Fire Trilogy) (C.S. Friedman)
Description (Amazon)
The Coldfire trilogy tells a story of discovery and battle against evil on a planet where a force of nature exists that is capable of reshaping the world in response to psychic stimulus. This terrifying force, much like magic, has the power to prey upon the human mind, drawing forth a person's worst nightmare images or most treasured dreams and indiscriminately giving them life. This is the story of two men: one, a warrior priest ready to sacrifice anything and everything for the cause of humanity's progress; the other, a sorcerer who has survived for countless centuries by a total submission to evil. They are absolute enemies who must unite to conquer an evil greater than anything their world has ever known.
This is epic fantasy with a different face. Think a mix of epic fantasy, gothic, horror, and mystery. If you read this series, you can rest assured it's free from that taint of unoriginality present on 95% of the fantasy fiction out there. The world created by Friedman is quite unique -- a landscape where your own imagination crafts the very essence of reality. Of course, human imagination being what it is, instead of a paradise of the mind, the world is rather a vivid and starkly real nightmare. Only men of supreme will are able to bend the world -- and their imagination -- to their desires. It's an interesting premise that Friedman fully explores over the series. The hero, or rather anti-hero, is one of the more compelling protagonists in the fantasy
#12: The Blade Itself (Joe Abercrombie)
Description (Amazon)
Logen Ninefingers, infamous barbarian, has finally run out of luck. Caught in one feud too many, he's on the verge of becoming a dead barbarian - leaving nothing behind him but bad songs, dead friends, and a lot of happy enemies. Nobleman, dashing officer, and paragon of selfishness, Captain Jezal dan Luthar has nothing more dangerous in mind than fleecing his friends at cards and dreaming of glory in the fencing circle. But war is brewing, and on the battlefields of the frozen North they fight by altogether bloodier rules. Inquisitor Glokta, cripple turned torturer, would like nothing better than to see Jezal come home in a box. But then Glokta hates everyone: cutting treason out of the Union one confession at a time leaves little room for friendship. His latest trail of corpses may lead him right to the rotten heart of government, if he can stay alive long enough to follow it. Enter the wizard, Bayaz. A bald old man with a terrible temper and a pathetic assistant, he could be the First of the Magi,
he could be a spectacular fraud, but whatever he is, he's about to make the lives of Logen, Jezal, and Glotka a whole lot more
Murderous conspiracies rise to the surface, old scores are ready to be settled, and the line between hero and villain is sharp enough to draw blood. Unpredictable, compelling, wickedly funny, and packed with unforgettable characters, The Blade Itself is noir fantasy with a real cutting
The Blade Itself is a rousing new entry to the fantasy genre and book 1 of the First Law trilogy. Joe Abercrombie takes all the classic fantasy conventions and spins them into something new. The Blade Itself features reluctant heroes, black humor, and breathtaking action. Seemingly a novel of The Blade Itself is defined by its cast: a philosophical Barbarian who hates to kill, a dashing hero afraid to fight, and a crippled torturer with a heart of gold. The twisted plot and cast of unforgettable characters makes The Blade Itself an absolute must read. The other two books are equally enthralling and there is no dip in the "quality" of the series. This is one of the best trilogies in the fantasy genre.
Joe Abercrombie has 4 books written as of July 2010, the First Law trilogy (consisting of the Blade Itself and the two sequels). Best served cold is a very good standalone set in the same world, as is The Heroes, which is not yet
Similar recommendations:
The Blade Itself
is a new style of Fantasy that's gaining swift momentum. The quality level demanded of a good Fantasy novel is now very high. Readers are no longer satisfied with the dark lords farm boy conceit. This new style of Fantasy takes the old staples of Fantasy and remakes them into something more sophisticated. Strong, witty writing, dry humor, twisted plotting, and full of contrasting elements, this new style makes for some intelligent reading. In this new world of noir Fantasy, shades of gray are the new black and white. If you like this 21st century upgrade to the Fantasy genre, check out books by R. Scott Bakker, Brandon Sanderson)
, Scott Lynch)
, Joe Abercrombie, George R.R. Martin, and Steven Erikson. Of course, if you like the First Law, you should read is standalone book set in the same world, Best Served Cold. One more suggestion if you like the epic-fantasy-turned-on-it's-head that mark's Abercrombie's effort is to read Richard Morgan's The Steel Remains. Morgan writes some interesting science fiction but has turned his writing chops to the fantasy genre with a new epic fantasy series. Like Abercrombie, Morgan flips the conventions on their
The Blade Itself
is a new style of Fantasy that's gaining swift momentum. The quality level demanded of a good Fantasy novel is now very high. Readers are no longer satisfied with the dark lords farm boy conceit. This new style of Fantasy takes the old staples of Fantasy and remakes them into something more sophisticated. Strong, witty writing, dry humor, twisted plotting, and full of contrasting elements, this new style makes for some intelligent reading. In this new world of noir Fantasy, shades of gray are the new black and white. If you like this 21st century upgrade to the Fantasy genre, check out books by R. Scott Bakker, Brandon Sanderson
#13: The Magicians (Less Grossman)
Description (Amazon)
Like everyone else, precocious high school senior Quentin Coldwater assumes that magic isn't real, until he finds himself admitted to a very secretive and exclusive college of magic in upstate New York. There he indulges in joys of college-friendship, love, sex, and booze- and receives a rigorous education in modern sorcery. But magic doesn't bring the happiness and adventure Quentin thought it would. After graduation, he and his friends stumble upon a secret that sets them on a remarkable journey that may just fulfill Quentin's yearning. But their journey turns out to be darker and more dangerous than they'd imagined. Psychologically piercing and dazzlingly inventive, The Magicians is an enthralling coming-of-age tale about magic practiced in the real world-where good and evil aren't black and white, and power comes at a terrible price.
The Magicians is a book that will take you by surprise. In a genre populated by epic fantasy quests and magical swords, by overused cliches and shallow fantasy, this book is really something unique; it’s grown-up fantasy. This is part Harry Potter on downers and suffering from clinical depression, part Alice trapped in a Wonderland gone nightmarishly wrong. At it's heart, the Magicians is really the story of a boy-become-man struggling to give the world meaning in a world that has no meaning. What does this all mean? The Magicians is fantasy that’s more than fantasy. If you are looking for a happy-go-lucky read where the world is saved and everyone finds true love and does a victory dance into the sunset, you may want to skip this one. For the rest of you who want to taste something different (and this one has a lot of zing to it folks), Les Grossman’s The Magicians delivers. Apparently, Less Grossman is working on a sequel to The Magicians. I wait with bated breath.
Similar recommendations:
You might want to give Susan Clarke's Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell a read. Like Less Grossman's The Magicians, it's a story about magic in a world that supposedly has no magic. Both novels veer from the usual fantasy conventions, weighing in as more than just "fantasy." I like to call these "literary fantasy."
You might want to give Susan Clarke's Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell a read. Like Less Grossman's The Magicians, it's a story about magic in a world that supposedly has no magic. Both novels veer from the usual fantasy conventions, weighing in as more than just "fantasy." I like to call these "literary fantasy."
#14: A Sword of Shadows (J.V. Jones)
Description (First Book)
As a newborn Ash March was abandoned--left for dead at the foot of a frozen mountain. Found and raised by the Penthero Iss, the mighty Surlord of Spire Vanis, she has always known she is different. Terrible dreams plague her and sometimes in the darkness she hears dread voices from another world. Iss watches her as she grows to womanhood, eager to discover what powers his ward might possess. As his interest quickens, he sends his living blade, Marafice Eye, to guard her night and day.
Starts with A Cavern of Black Ice. Gritty, cold fantasy, with a flair for the gruesome. This
fabulous series is jam packed full of goodness. Characterization is great, and Jones, like Robin
Hobb and George R. Martin, is gives no quarter to her heroes. Plot, too, is superlative. This is Sword and Sorcery
the way it's meant to be. Jones has really come into her own the past few years and Sword of Shadows is her masterpiece. This series seems to be underrated for some reason; it certainly does not get the attention it deserves. Yes, some really good fantasy books have been released the past couple years, but Sword of Shadows can hold it's own. This is one of my favorite epic fantasy series; if you like the gritty flavor of a A Song of Ice and Fire, you owe it to yourself to read this series.
Series Info
There was an awful five year wait between her second and third book, however, she's resumed writing at a normal pace now. The fourth book was released this year and is every bit as good as the previous three. The Sword of Shadows series is set in the same world as Book of Words, though it's in a different place and there are completely new characters. Book of Words is inferior to Sword of Shadows, but it's a decent fantasy series, better than most in fact.
Sword of Shadows
Book of Words
Similar recommendations:
Try George Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire saga
#15: Acacia (David Anthony Durham)
Book Description (from book flap)
Leodan Akaran, ruler of the Known World, has inherited generations of apparent peace and prosperity, won ages ago by his ancestors. A widower of high intelligence, he presides over an empire called Acacia, after the idyllic island from which he rules. He dotes on his four children and hides from them the dark realities of traffic in drugs and human lives on which prosperity depends. He hopes that he might change this, but powerful forces stand in his way. And then a deadly assassin
sent from a race called the Mein, exiled long ago to an ice-locked stronghold in the frozen north, strikes at Leodan in the heart of Acacia while they unleash surprise attacks across the empire. On his deathbed, Leodan puts into play a plan to allow his children to escape, each to their separate destiny. And so his children begin a quest to avenge their father's death and restore the Acacian empire?this time on the basis of universal freedom. ACACIA is a thrilling work of literary imagination that creates an all-enveloping and mythic world that will carry readers away. It is a timeless tale of heroism and betrayal, of treachery and revenge, of primal wrongs and ultimate redemption. David Durham has
reimagined the epic narrative for our time in a book that will surely mark his breakthrough to a wide
George R.R. Martin, take heed, you have a new challenger for the throne of kingdoms! David Anthony Durham. The new kid on the fantasy block has some new moves that may even impress the old timers. Durham, a well known historical fiction author, brings his writing to the fantasy genre. And what an effort it is! Acacia has all the elements that make A Song of Ice and Fire so compelling. Unpredictability? Check. Mysterious magic? Check. Fantastic world building and myth? Check. Political maneuvering? Check.Massive Battles. Check. Great characterization. Check. Fantastic writing? Check. A plot that grips and won't let go? Check. Should you read it? Double Check.
If you want a more impressive experience, I highly recommend the Audiobook version. The sequel has been out for a bit now and is every bit as good as the first book. This series has not gotten as much attention as it rightly deserves. If you like epic fantasy that follows (but doesn't copy) in Martin's footsteps, Acacia and it's sequel are exactly what you are looking for.
Similar recommendations:
Acacia is written in the epic Fantasy tradition that Tolkien pioneered. Epic Fantasy is probably the
most popular type of Fantasy and the real "poster boy" for the Fantasy genre (something that I personally believe should not be the case). If you like Acacia, then it's a sure bet that you will love these other series.
You should definitely read George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire saga
series currently out there (and my top pick). Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time
Steven Erikson's Malazan Book of the Fallen
#16: Elric of Melinbone (Michael Moorcock)
Description (Amazon)
It is the color of a bleached skull, his flesh; and the long hair that flows below his shoulders is milk-white. From the tapering, beautiful head stare two slanting eyes, crimson and moody... He is Elric, Emperor of Melnibone, cursed with a keen and cynical intelligence, schooled in the art of sorcery and the hero of Michael Moorcock's remarkable epic of conflict and adventure at the dawn of human history.
Be prepared for a real treat if you have not yet read this series. Without a doubt, Elric of Melnibone is an outstanding fantasy, truly one of the “great” works up there with Rings, Gormenghast, and Martin. So, why should you give this series a chance? This is a dark fantasy through and through where things don’t happen the way you think they should. The characters are complicated, multidimensional, easy to love but far too often, easier to hate. The brooding hero Elric is perhaps one of the most complicated and fascinating characters in the fantasy genre. The plot never drives in a straight line, keeping you on your toes. And this, folks, makes the Elric novels delicious. This is another book on this list that tends towards the literature side of things, but for those with short attention spans, there is plenty to love for you. It’s rare to find a fantasy book that can satisfy those intellectual types and those pop-corn chewing readers who love action. This is one of the most unusual and philosophical fantasy series written. It’s also one of the greatest. This series is not as “popular” as some of the so called big names of fantasy. But don’t make the mistake of letting that fact that you’ve probably never heard of this author stop you from reading this book. It’s good. Damn good.
#17: The Darkness That Comes Before (R. Scott Bakker)
Description (Best Fantasy Book Admin)
In a world saturated by religious fanaticism, Maithanet, enigmatic spiritual leader of the Thousand Temples, declares a Holy War against the infidels. Ikurei Conphas, military genius and nephew to the Nansur Emperor, embarks on a war to conquer the known world in the name of his emperor...and himself. Drusas Achamian, spy and sorcerer of the mysterious northern sorceries, tormented by visions of the great apocalypse, seeks the promised one, the savior of mankind. Anasurimbor Kellhus, heir to the shattered northern kingdom, whose ruins now lay hidden in the deepest north, a place now desolate, home to only the No-Men. Gifted with extraordinary martial skills of hand and foot, and steering souls
through the subtleties of word and expression, he slowly binds all - man and woman, emperor and slave - to his own mysterious ends. But the fate of men--even great men--may be cast into ruin. For in the deep north, the hand of the forgotten No-God stirs once more, and his servants tread the lands of men...
Those looking for more of the "boy becomes wizard and defeats dark lord" books that litter the bargain bins of any bookstore, look elsewhere; The Darkness That Comes Before (and the two sequels) is fantasy for grownups. Cerebral to its core, The Darkness That Comes before is a new type of fantasy -- a philosophical meandering about existentialism. Oh, and it has enough action and bloodletting that even Rambo fans would appreciate.
Combining the gritty realism of George R.R. Martin and epic scale of Steven Erikson, The Darkness That Comes Before will grip you harder than a vice. Reset assured that the two sequels, The Warrior King and The Thousandfold Thought maintain the excellent standard set by the first book. Scott Bakker has established himself as one of the genre's top fantasy authors.
Bakker has completed the two sequels to the Darkness that Came Before. He's currently working on a sequel trilogy Aspect Emperor. The first which shows a lot of promise and is a great continuation to the Prince of Nothing series. It's less philosophical and more "plot" and story which I found refreshing. There is still plenty of what made Prince of Nothing a good read, however.
The Prince of Nothing Trilogy
Aspect Emperor Trilogy
Similar recommendations:
The vast scope of The Darkness That Comes Before)
is very redolent of Steven Erickson's Malazan Book of the Fallen)
saga, though the characters are less gray, and the story more focused. Also try George R.R Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire saga, which is very epic and very gritty. Bakker wrote an epic fantasy that really reworked the conventions of the epic fantasy genre. Another series that does that is Abercrombie's First Law series (starts with The Blade Itself) and Richard Morgan's The Steel Remains.
The vast scope of The Darkness That Comes Before
#18: Jonathon Strange & Mr. Norrell (Susanna Clarke)
What would happen if you locked Tolkien, Dickens, and Jane Austin in a room? Why, Susanna Clark's masterpiece Jonathon Strange and Mr. Norrell of course! Like the Victorian era the book is situated in,
the story ambles along at a sedate pace. But what starts out as a jolly stroll down Oxford Street transforms into the darkly disturbing decent into the madness of two magicians. Fabulously written, dark, fully of mystery and wonder, Susanna Clark's masterpiece is owed a read by every fantasy fan. A complete reimagining of English history, Jonathon Strange and Mr. Norrell is the story of two English magicians in a world where magic exists only in the annals of English history. It starts slow but keep reading--the tale soon envelopes you. It's a different sort of read then the Robert Jordan type of fantasy, but it's a refreshing addition to the fantasy genre. You can't always eat the same meal every day right? Why not try something different? If you are in for something new that's very tasty, give Jonathon Strange & Mr. Norrell a shot.
Similar recommendations:
Another book that comes deals with old fairy folk tales is Keith Donohue's The Stolen Child. A novel about the search for identity, The Stolen Child makes for a compelling read. The Stolen Child, like Susanna Clarke's work, is very well written. These books are sort of your "out of the box" fantasy -- it's never been done before. It's quite refreshing to see the fantasy genre has more to it then epic fantasy.
Description (Publisher)
He called himself Thomas Covenant the Unbeliever because he dared not believe in the strange alternate world in which he suddenly found himself. Yet he was tempted to believe, to fight for the Land, to be the reincarnation of its greatest hero....
Stephen R. Donaldson changed the face of fantasy in 1977 with the publishing of Lord Foul's Bane (book one in The First Chronicles of Thomas Covenant). It took the world by storm. Hailed as a masterpiece of fantasy literature, TC went on to sell over 6 million copies. And for good reason. Donaldson's magnum opus is regarded as one the most emotionally compelling fantasy works ever created. Covenant is through and through an antihero. From anti-hero to hero, from tragedy to victory, this is one man's quest to save The Land from Evil and in the process, find his own
redemption? If you love fantasy, READ THESE BOOKS. Donaldson is one of the best characterization writers, ever. Donaldson is not afraid to explore the darker side of humanity, however. If you're looking for a saccharine fairly tale that brings a feely-good smile to the table, look elsewhere. If you want a riveting, darkly realistic tale about a flawed man's quest for redemption, you won't do better than Thomas Covenant.
First Chronicles
Second Chronicles
Last Chronicles of Thomas Covenant
About the Series
Stephen Donaldson has three Thomas Covenant series: First Chronicles of Thomas Covenant, Second Chronicles of Tomas Covenant, and the recent series, the Last Chronicles of Thomas Covenant. Each series is chronological and follows the exploits of Thomas Covenant. I've listed the series by chronological order. Click on the pictures to read the amazon descriptions.
Similar recommendations:
If you like his Donaldson's First Chronicles of Thomas Covenant The Unbeliever)
, then you should read his Covenant trilogies listed above. His new trilogy (The Last Chronicles of Thomas Covenant The Unbeliever) is a riveting read that will please both old and new fans. Thomas' old lover, Linden, returns to The Land, only to find it changed beyond recognition... And Thomas the Unbeliever? Read the books to find out!
If you like the characterization of Thomas Covenant, you may like Tad William's epic fantasy Memory, Sorrow, Thorn saga which really follows
the transformation of the protagonist over the course of the series. Read Robin Hobb's The Farseer
for another story with magnificent characterization set in a fantasy landscape (though Farseer is not exactly epic fantasy). Donaldson is unique in fantasy because his character is whole an whole an anti-hero instead of a hero. You may like George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire saga; there are some detestable main characters (anti-hero types) that become more agreeable as the series progresses; You see a slow evolution of these characters.
Donaldson also has a very interesting (and dark dark) science fiction series (Gap) that you will like if you liked the anit-hero aspect of Covenant.
#20: American Gods (Neil Gaiman)If you like his Donaldson's First Chronicles of Thomas Covenant The Unbeliever
If you like the characterization of Thomas Covenant, you may like Tad William's epic fantasy Memory, Sorrow, Thorn saga which really follows
the transformation of the protagonist over the course of the series. Read Robin Hobb's The Farseer
for another story with magnificent characterization set in a fantasy landscape (though Farseer is not exactly epic fantasy). Donaldson is unique in fantasy because his character is whole an whole an anti-hero instead of a hero. You may like George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire saga
Donaldson also has a very interesting (and dark dark) science fiction series (Gap) that you will like if you liked the anit-hero aspect of Covenant.
Description (Amazon)
Released shortly after his wife's death, Shadow finds himself adrift without ties.
Things change when Wednesday, trickster and wise man who just may or may not be a god, convinces Shadow to be his driver and errand boy. They journey from place to place, across the rural landscapes of America, rounding up Egyptian deities, Norse gods, and a host of other entities in preparation for what will be the Last Battle -- a battle between the old gods who have found themselves in America over the past 10,000 years and the new gods of the digital age. Shadow finds himself drawn into a world where myth and legend coexist with today's realities.
American Gods is triumph of storytelling and a real look into the underlying, hidden assumptions
of what it means to be American. A scary, somewhat strange hallucinogenic road trip, American Gods
is quest to find the American identity. Gaiman captures the quintessential American truth: every person in America has roots from somewhere else. A crossover fantasy, American Gods is also a literary triumph. This is cerebral fantasy that's also a damn good tale. If you want some well-written, addictive fantasy that digs into the fabric of American society, American Gods delivers.
I suggest the Audiobook version
of the story. The narrator does a fantastic job of bringing Gaiman's creation to life.
Similar recommendations:
For other Fantasy concerned with myth and legends coexisting (or struggling) with the modern world, read Robert Holdstock's Mythago Wood. Kay's very good Ysabel also deals with a similar theme. Keith Donohue's The Stolen Child)
is another book that grapples with the reality of folk tales (fairies) effect on the modern world. It's also a deep look into a man's search for his China Mieville also explore the same theme (old myths living amongst and struggling with today's realities) in his latest (as of July 2010) novel, Kraken. Another popular author that also likes to juxtapose myth and modern society is Charles de Lint. Myth existing in today's world does seem to be a common them with the Urban Fantasy subgenre, but the above books are the best written that feature myths living in the modern world.
For other Fantasy concerned with myth and legends coexisting (or struggling) with the modern world, read Robert Holdstock's Mythago Wood. Kay's very good Ysabel also deals with a similar theme. Keith Donohue's The Stolen Child
#21: Abhorsen Trilogy (Garth Nix)
Ostensibly these books are for Young Adults, but don't let the age restriction deter you. This is one of the best fantasy tales out there. As a bonus, the books are not monstrously big like many of the fantasy books these days. This is a good thing. Many fantasy books meander into nowhereland; Nix, however, is a phenomenal writer, able to fully harness the power of the English language. The Abhorson trilogy is a mix of fantasy and horror. If you want some fantasy that gives you the chills while delivering a rousing, action packed tale, you won't go wrong with Abhorson. Buy the book, curl up on your favorite sofa, dim the lights, and be prepared for a chilling fantasy tale.
If you want a really chilling feeling, get the Audiobook version
Abhorsen Trilogy & Other Tales
Similar recommendations:
A classic series kids around the world have grown up reading is The Chronicles of Narnia. While Narnia is very clearly a Christian allegory, it can be enjoyed without reading too deep into the Christian subtext. The writing is decent and it's a great magical adventure for both kids and adults. You should also read Garth Nix's newest series, Keys to the Kingdom, is also a great read, both for the kiddies and adults, one of the better series for kids. Don't forget to read Jonathon Stroud's very impressive The Bartimaeus Trilogy. It's an action packed thrill ride about a magician's apprentice who manages to summon a powerful genie (Bartimaeus). Bartimaeus is less then pleased with this turn of events and tries to sabotage his young master at every opportunity. Hilariously funny, at times very dark, with great writing, a great cast of well-developed characters, and an interesting world, Bartimaeus is a must read series (for both kids and adults). You might want to take a gander with Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials. It's uber famous and with good reason. And finally, Harry Potter)
. I won't bother explaining why. If you are specifically looking for books your kid might like, i suggest you visit The Top 10 Fantasy Books for Kids list.
#22: Memory, Sorrow, Thorn (Tad Williams)A classic series kids around the world have grown up reading is The Chronicles of Narnia. While Narnia is very clearly a Christian allegory, it can be enjoyed without reading too deep into the Christian subtext. The writing is decent and it's a great magical adventure for both kids and adults. You should also read Garth Nix's newest series, Keys to the Kingdom, is also a great read, both for the kiddies and adults, one of the better series for kids. Don't forget to read Jonathon Stroud's very impressive The Bartimaeus Trilogy. It's an action packed thrill ride about a magician's apprentice who manages to summon a powerful genie (Bartimaeus). Bartimaeus is less then pleased with this turn of events and tries to sabotage his young master at every opportunity. Hilariously funny, at times very dark, with great writing, a great cast of well-developed characters, and an interesting world, Bartimaeus is a must read series (for both kids and adults). You might want to take a gander with Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials. It's uber famous and with good reason. And finally, Harry Potter
Memory, Sorrow, Thorn is William's answer to Lord of the Rings. But his answer in not a clone, but a challenge. Get ready to explore a vivid world and journey to the far yonder. William's characterization is top notch; you follow the journey of young Simon from boy to man, from kitchen scullion to hero. The plot is thick and often crawls at a snail's pace, but the series is an undisguised jewel. A must for any fantasy aficionado! There is a reason why after so many years, Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn remain near the top of many fantasy lovers' list. Read it to find out why!
Tad's Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn series has been completed for many years. He's recently penned another epic high fantasy series called Shadow March. I actually really like this series -- it's certainly one of the better ones out there. The verdict is still out on how it will rank when it's completed (3 books out now with 1 more to come I believe), but it may surpass his Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn depending.
Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn
Shadowmarch Series
Similar recommendations:
Lord of the Rings)
by J.R.R Tolkien. Another book that shares some similarities is Michael A Stackpole's The DragonCrown War Cycle)
, which features an epic, black & white struggle, struggle between good and evil.
Also read William's new fantasy saga Shadowmarch)
. Wonderful prose and a strong plot. I also recommend Tad Williams City of Golden Shadow)
saga. It's science fiction, but there are quite a few fantasy elements too; it's kind of like the Matrix. Otherland is of the best Science Fiction books, imho.
Lord of the Rings
by J.R.R Tolkien. Another book that shares some similarities is Michael A Stackpole's The DragonCrown War Cycle
Also read William's new fantasy saga Shadowmarch
#23: The Way of Shadows (Night Angel Trilogy) (Brent Weeks)
The Way of Shadows holds no punches. This is the fantasy version of Jet Li: the pacing is fast, the action vicious, and the plot exciting. This is not “philosophical” fantasy in say the vein of Bakker’s The Darkness that Comes Before, mature fantasy like Abercrombie’s First Law, or even the realism of Martin’s A Game of Thrones. Yet, there is something that makes this series stands out. Maybe the fact it’s wildly entertaining in a pop-corn eating sort of way. Or maybe it’s the fact that I’ve been bombarded for an entire year by people wanting to see this series make the top list. Or maybe it’s even because I really enjoyed the trilogy. So what the heck, welcome Brent Week’s Way of the Shadows (and his Night Angel Trilogy) to the list. The Way of Shadows holds no punches. This is the fantasy version of Jet Li: the pacing is fast, the action vicious, and the plot exciting. This is not “philosophical” fantasy in say the vein of Bakker’s The Darkness that Comes Before, mature fantasy like Abercrombie’s First Law, or even the realism of Martin’s A Game of Thrones. Yet, there is something that makes this series stands out. Maybe the fact it’s wildly entertaining in a pop-corn eating sort of way. Or maybe it’s the fact that I’ve been bombarded for an entire year by people wanting to see this series make the top list. Or maybe it’s even because I really enjoyed the trilogy. So what the heck, welcome Brent Week’s Way of the Shadows (and his Night Angel Trilogy) to the list.
Similar recommendations:
If you like the whole assassin theme and the intense action, you should read Michael Stoover's Heroes Die. It's a viciously sweet and highly underrated book. It was previously on the Top 25 list. Also check out Robin Hobb's The Farseer Trilogy which details the life and exploits of Fritz Chivalry, an assassin in training.
If you like the whole assassin theme and the intense action, you should read Michael Stoover's Heroes Die. It's a viciously sweet and highly underrated book. It was previously on the Top 25 list. Also check out Robin Hobb's The Farseer Trilogy which details the life and exploits of Fritz Chivalry, an assassin in training.
#24: Magician: Apprentice and Magician (Raymond E. Feist)
Classic fantasy at its best! You're not getting anything new here (like the efforts of Steven Erickson, Susanna Clark, or Scott Bakker), but what Magician does, it does superbly well: the classic transformation tale of village boy to powerful magician. Yes, it's cliche. Yes, every author since the dawn of sword carrying barbarians and pointy-haired elves has used the village boy conceit. But despite this, Magician stands out above all the rest of the wannabies. What hurls Magician above the rest of the pack is the really compelling plot and world. The book is just so damn fun to read. So if classic fantasy is the apple of your eye, and you are weary of the gritty realism creeping into fantasy, this book is your fix. I have what I consider two "classic" fantasy tales on this list: Wheel of Time and Magician. If I had to pick between the two, Wheel of Time get's my vote. But for those who still love those old fantasy conventions, Magician is recommended. Note: If you don't want to muck around with this "classic fantasy stuff", then go straight for Feists's BEST work (co authored with Janny Wurts) which is the "Empire Trilogy." The writing, plot, and characterization really does make the Magician series seem amateurish by comparison -- I kid you not. It's my "favorite" work by Feist. It lacks the boy-becomes-man-and-kick's-serious-ass superheroness of the Magician series (which is what some readers love to see), but it's a damn good story and just flat out better written. And that's my plug for the Empire series.
These two books (Magician: Apprentice and Magician: Master) are the books that launched the career of super popular fantasy author Raymond E. Feist. In my opinion, it's the (second) best of his works. If you
like his world, I suggest continuing on with the other two books in the Serpentwar Saga. I've listed his Midkemia books in chronological order by series. Each series is set in the same world that Magician is and are sequels, sort of. Feist has more books, but I've only listed the series that I feel are worth reading. His best by far are the two Magician books and his Empire Trilogy.
Riftwar Saga
Empire Trilogy
Serpentwar Saga
Conclave of Shadows
Conclave of Shadows Trilogy: Talon of the Silver Hawk, King of Foxes, Exile's Re
(Unknown Binding - Jan 1, 2004)$29.99
The Darkwar Saga
Similar recommendations:
Feist's books always emphasize the heavy use of magic and loads of political tensions. If you like Feist's style of storytelling and his use of heavy magic, read Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time. Jordan's books are rampant with magic use. Also give Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman's The Death Gate Cycle)
a whirl. it's a great story with lot's of tension, lots of mystery, and lot's of powerful magic in the vein of Jordan and Feist.
Hickman and Weis are responsible for populating the fantasy genre with the worst sort of fantasy tripe (dragonlance), but surprisingly, their Death Gate Cycle is a much much better effort -- the best of their work and likely will stay that way. If you really like Magician, try Feist's other novels of Midkemia. All of them are set in the same world, though most of them fail to match the first brilliance of Magician)
. The one exception might be his Empire Trilogy, coauthored with Janny Wurts. The Empire Trilogy is a fantastic read, and I whole heartedly recommend it; the quality of the prose (perhaps due to Wurt's influence) is superior to Magician. Also read the The Rune Lords series by David Farland. Same style of writing as Feist (lots of magic,
lots of powerful characters, lots of action, not that much characterization), but with a more interesting magic system. The problem with Feist is that he tends to make his character's too powerful and Feist is forced to find ridiculous ways of handicapping them
Feist's books always emphasize the heavy use of magic and loads of political tensions. If you like Feist's style of storytelling and his use of heavy magic, read Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time. Jordan's books are rampant with magic use. Also give Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman's The Death Gate Cycle
Hickman and Weis are responsible for populating the fantasy genre with the worst sort of fantasy tripe (dragonlance), but surprisingly, their Death Gate Cycle is a much much better effort -- the best of their work and likely will stay that way. If you really like Magician, try Feist's other novels of Midkemia. All of them are set in the same world, though most of them fail to match the first brilliance of Magician
lots of powerful characters, lots of action, not that much characterization), but with a more interesting magic system. The problem with Feist is that he tends to make his character's too powerful and Feist is forced to find ridiculous ways of handicapping them
#25: Dresden Files (Jim Butcher)
Description (Taken from Butchers website)
The Dresden Files are Jim's first published series, telling the story of Harry Blackstone Copperfield Dresden, Chicago's first (and only) Wizard P.I.
Harry Dresden, a Sherlock with kick-ass attitude and wizard powers. This is some damn addictive detective fantasy. The series contains everything a fantasy book lover could want: magic, action, mystery, adventure,
love, and sorrow. It also gets pretty damn dark by the later part of the series. Get ready to meet vampires, werewolves, wizards, fairies, and angles. Dresden is what Anita Blake should be. I'm not usually a reader of urban fantasy, but Butcher has converted me with this stunning series. Many readers wonder why I don't put butcher's other fantasy series, Codex Alera on the list. Well, simply put, there are 25 spots and I don't want to shove in the same author twice. Simple. So, read this as my endorsement for Butcher's Codex Alera series -- it's a fantastic epic fantasy series with a roman flavor that you should read.
The whole butcher series is listed in chronological order, from left to right. Click the book image to see the details. Note, Welcome to the Jungle is a prequel novel. Butcher has also created an epic fantasy series called Codex Alera. I highly recommend you read it -- it's gotten rave reviews across the board, features a unique magic system, an interesting plot, a Romanesque fantasy setting, action galore, and a likable protagonist.
The Dresden Files
Ghost Story (Dresden Files, No. 13)
Jim Butcher (Hardcover - Apr 5, 2011)$18.45
Box Sets
Codex Alera Series
The Codex Alera Series - Books 1-5: Furies of Calderon, Academ's Fury, Cursor's Fury, Captain's Fury & Princep's Fury
Jim Butcher (Mass Market Paperback)If you have a book you don't see on the list or you just want others to read your favorite books, visit the Community Book Review section and help review your favorite books or suggest new books for review! Note, books that have been bumped from the Top 25 list move to the Great Fantasy Books list.
All this info was gathered from http://www.bestfantasybooks.com/top25-fantasy-books.php
