Top Fantasy - Best Fantasy Books Ranking 2025

In "The Name of the Wind," journey into the life of Kvothe, a man whose tale is woven with magic, music, and mystery. From his humble beginnings with a troupe of traveling performers, Kvothe's path takes him through the shadows of a crime-ridden city and into the halls of a prestigious school of magic. Here, brilliance meets danger, and secrets both wondrous and perilous await discovery. As Kvothe grows from a gifted magician to a masterful musician and an infamous assassin, his saga unfolds with breathtaking intensity. This is a story of resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of truth—a tale that reveals the man behind the myth. Discover the legend that has captured imaginations and uncover the truth that lies beneath. Dive into the world of "The Name of the Wind" and explore the extraordinary destiny of a hero like no other.

"There are three things all wise men fear: the sea in storm, a night with no moon, and the anger of a gentle man." My name is Kvothe. I have stolen princesses back from the sleeping barrow kings, burned down the town of Trebon, and spent the night with Felurian, leaving with both my sanity and my life. Expelled from the University at an age younger than most are admitted, I have tread paths by moonlight that others fear to speak of by day. I have conversed with gods, loved deeply, and sung songs that make minstrels weep. You may have heard of me. This is my tale—a story unparalleled in fantasy literature. In "The Wise Man's Fear," my escalating rivalry with a powerful noble forces me to leave the University and seek my fortune in the world. Adrift and penniless, I journey to Vintas, where I become ensnared in the labyrinthine politics of courtly society. There, I uncover an assassination plot, clash with a rival arcanist, and lead mercenaries to unravel the mystery of those vanishing on the King's Road. My quest leads me to confront the enigmatic Amyr, the sinister Chandrian, and the truth behind my parents' deaths. I stand trial by the legendary Adem mercenaries, reclaim the honor of the Edema Ruh, and venture into the Fae realm, where I encounter Felurian, the irresistible faerie woman who no man survives—until me. In this gripping sequel, I take my first steps on the path of the hero, learning the burdens of becoming a legend in my own time.

Embark on an epic journey with "The Fellowship of the Ring," the first part of J.R.R. Tolkien's legendary saga, The Lord of the Rings. In an age long past, the Elven-smiths forged the Rings of Power, yet the Dark Lord Sauron crafted one ring to rule them all, infusing it with his malevolent power. The One Ring was lost, its whereabouts unknown even to Sauron, until fate placed it in the hands of an unassuming hobbit, Bilbo Baggins, as recounted in "The Hobbit." Years later, in the tranquil Shire, young Frodo Baggins inherits this perilous legacy. Entrusted by his cousin Bilbo with the One Ring, Frodo faces an overwhelming challenge. He must leave the safety of his home and venture into the heart of danger, traversing the vast and treacherous lands of Middle-earth. His mission: to reach the fiery Cracks of Doom and destroy the Ring, thwarting Sauron's dark ambitions. Join Frodo and an unlikely fellowship of companions as they confront formidable foes, unravel ancient mysteries, and strive against the encroaching darkness. Tolkien's masterful prose weaves a tale of friendship, courage, and the enduring battle between good and evil, captivating readers with its rich world-building and timeless themes. This is a journey that promises to enthrall and inspire, a classic that invites you to lose yourself in a world of wonder and peril.

In "The Two Towers," the captivating second installment of J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic saga, "The Lord of the Rings," the journey of the Fellowship takes a dramatic turn as the shadow of darkness grows ever deeper. As alliances fracture and hope seems elusive, the story unfolds with breathtaking intensity. Frodo and Sam, bearing the immense burden of the One Ring, venture into the treacherous lands of Mordor, guided by the enigmatic and unpredictable Gollum. Their path is fraught with peril, testing their resilience and friendship in unimaginable ways. Meanwhile, the remaining members of the Fellowship face their own battles. Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli find themselves drawn into the heart of Rohan, a kingdom on the brink of despair, as they rally to defend it against the relentless forces of Saruman’s orc armies. Amidst the towering spires of Isengard and the haunting beauty of the Ents’ ancient forest, the narrative weaves a rich tapestry of bravery and betrayal, loyalty and sacrifice. Tolkien masterfully crafts a world where the stakes are high and the fate of Middle-earth hangs in the balance. With its sweeping landscapes and unforgettable characters, "The Two Towers" is a testament to the power of courage and the enduring spirit of adventure. Dive into this masterpiece and embark on a journey that will leave you breathless and longing for more.

In "The Return of the King," the gripping conclusion to J.R.R. Tolkien's epic saga, "The Lord of the Rings," the fate of Middle-earth hangs in the balance. The dark lord Sauron’s power is growing, and the shadow of his dominion looms large over the free peoples. As the forces of darkness gather, the courage of a fellowship is tested like never before. Aragorn, heir to the throne of Gondor, must claim his birthright and rally the kingdoms of men, elves, and dwarves for the final battle against Sauron’s legions. Meanwhile, Frodo and Sam undertake a perilous journey into the heart of Mordor, tasked with the impossible mission to destroy the One Ring. Tolkien weaves a masterful tale of heroism, friendship, and sacrifice, as characters both noble and humble rise to meet their destinies. The vivid landscapes of Middle-earth, from the majestic city of Minas Tirith to the desolate plains of Gorgoroth, set the stage for a narrative rich in myth and adventure. "The Return of the King" is a triumphant finale that captivates readers with its intricate world-building, profound themes, and unforgettable characters. With the stakes higher than ever, can the forces of good prevail in the face of overwhelming darkness? Discover the thrilling conclusion to a timeless classic that has enchanted generations.

Discover the epic origins of Middle-earth in "The Silmarillion" by J.R.R. Tolkien, a masterful tapestry woven from the threads of mythology, history, and adventure. This essential tome unveils the ancient legends that set the stage for "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings," offering a profound exploration of a world rich in lore and wonder. Journey through the timeless tales of the creation of Eä, the world that is, and witness the valor and tragedy of the First Age. Meet the powerful Valar, the divine beings who shaped the earth, and the rebellious Melkor, whose dark ambitions sow chaos and discord. At the heart of this grand saga lie the Silmarils, radiant jewels crafted by the Elven smith Fëanor, whose beauty ignites an epic struggle that spans generations. Through sweeping narratives of heroism, treachery, and sacrifice, Tolkien breathes life into the realms of elves, dwarves, and men, weaving stories that resonate with universal themes of hope, redemption, and the eternal battle between light and darkness. Whether you're a devoted fan or a newcomer to Tolkien's world, "The Silmarillion" offers a captivating glimpse into the rich tapestry of Middle-earth, inviting you to lose yourself in its timeless magic and grandeur.

In "The Way of Kings," the first installment of the Stormlight Archive, Brandon Sanderson transports readers to the tumultuous world of Roshar, a realm battered by relentless storms and haunted by the echoes of ancient wars. Centuries have passed since the fall of the legendary Knights Radiant, but their mystical weapons and armor, capable of transforming ordinary men into invincible warriors, remain—and men are willing to kill for them. Amidst the shattered landscapes of the Shattered Plains, Kaladin, a soldier conscripted against his will, fights in a senseless war that has dragged on for a decade. Here, numerous armies clash against a singular enemy, their unity as fractured as the land they battle upon. Leading one of these armies is Dalinar Kholin, a commander captivated by an ancient text known as "The Way of Kings." As Dalinar is plagued by visions of a bygone era, he begins to question his own sanity. Across the ocean, Shallan, a young and conflicted scholar, delves into the secrets of magic and the Knights Radiant, uncovering truths that could alter the fate of Roshar. With novels translated into 25 languages and millions of copies sold worldwide, Brandon Sanderson's epic tale is a masterwork of fantasy, drawing comparisons to the works of George R.R. Martin and Robert Jordan. "The Way of Kings" is not only richly illustrated but also a breathtaking journey into a world of magic, mystery, and war, earning accolades such as the 2011 David Gemmell Legend Award for Best Fantasy Novel.

In "Words of Radiance," the second installment of Brandon Sanderson's epic Stormlight Archive, the intricate tapestry of Roshar unfolds as the world is plunged deeper into chaos. The ever-present storms continue to shape the destiny of its inhabitants, while the long-forgotten secrets of the Knights Radiant begin to surface. Kaladin Stormblessed, once a lowly bridge leader, now commands the king's army, but his newfound powers come with burdens. As he wrestles with his role and the expectations placed upon him, he must also protect those he loves from unseen threats. Meanwhile, Shallan Davar delves into the mysteries of her own past, uncovering hidden truths that could change the fate of the entire world. The war for Alethkar rages on, with Highprince Dalinar Kholin struggling to unite the fractured kingdom against a common enemy. Yet, as visions of a cataclysmic future haunt him, Dalinar must decide if he can trust the allies he desperately needs. Sanderson masterfully weaves together a tale of courage, betrayal, and hope, bringing to life a world brimming with magic and danger. As the storm clouds gather, the heroes must confront their fears and embrace the light within to stand against the encroaching darkness. Dive into "Words of Radiance" and experience a journey that will leave you breathless and yearning for more.

In "Oathbringer," the third installment of Brandon Sanderson's epic series, The Stormlight Archive, the once-abandoned city of Urithiru emerges as a sanctuary against the relentless storm that threatens to annihilate the world of Roshar. But this refuge is only a temporary reprieve from the looming catastrophe. King Dalinar Kholin faces a daunting challenge: to unite the fractious rulers of Roshar against a common enemy, while grappling with the haunting specters of his own past. As political tensions rise and alliances teeter on the brink of collapse, Dalinar must confront his inner demons, seeking redemption and strength to lead his people through the darkness. Sanderson weaves a mesmerizing tale of courage, redemption, and the enduring power of hope. With rich world-building and complex characters, "Oathbringer" promises a sweeping narrative that explores the depths of human resilience in the face of overwhelming odds. Dive into a world where the fate of kingdoms hangs by a thread, and where the bonds of loyalty and honor are tested to their limits. In this captivating journey, the true battle lies not just in confronting external threats, but in overcoming the shadows within.

In "Rhythm of War," the fourth installment of the epic Stormlight Archive series by Brandon Sanderson, the world of Roshar is teetering on the brink of chaos. As the war with the Parshendi escalates, the very fabric of reality begins to unravel, threatening to consume everything in its path. Kaladin Stormblessed finds himself haunted by the ghosts of his past and the weight of leadership as he strives to protect his people. Meanwhile, the brilliant yet troubled scholar, Shallan Davar, faces her own inner demons, caught in a web of secrets and illusions that could change the course of history. Dalinar Kholin, the once-mighty Highprince, must confront his own legacy and the whispers of an ancient power that beckons from the shadows. As alliances are tested and rivalries ignite, the stakes have never been higher. In a world where honor and betrayal walk hand in hand, Sanderson masterfully weaves a tale of courage, survival, and the relentless pursuit of truth. "Rhythm of War" is a breathtaking journey through a land where stormlight illuminates both the darkness of the battlefield and the depths of the human soul. Prepare to be swept away by a story that challenges the boundaries of heroism and the essence of what it means to fight for a better tomorrow.

In the world of Roshar, ancient conflicts erupt anew, threatening to engulf everything in their path. At the heart of this turmoil stands Dalinar Kholin, brother to the slain Highking and now the leader of the Radiant Knights. With audacious resolve, Dalinar has issued a challenge to Odium, the malevolent god whose influence stains the very fabric of existence. The kingdoms of Roshar find themselves with a mere ten days to brace for the looming catastrophe. The fate of Roshar and the entire Cosmere hangs precariously in the balance. In "Wind and Truth," the fifth installment of Brandon Sanderson's epic Stormlight Archive, the stakes have never been higher, as allies and enemies alike must navigate a landscape of shifting allegiances and hidden truths. This breathtaking tale, released in two parts in German as "Winde und Wahrheit" and "Der Kampf der Meister," promises to captivate readers with its intricate world-building, complex characters, and relentless tension. Will Roshar crumble under the weight of its own history, or will new light emerge from the chaos? Discover the answers as destinies collide and the saga unfolds.

In the shadowy streets of Camorr, Locke Lamora is known by many names—the Thorn of Camorr, a master thief, an invincible swordsman, and a hero to the downtrodden. Yet, in truth, Locke is more myth than might. Slight of build and lacking in sword skills, he is, ironically, the infamous Thorn. His legendary exploits are nothing more than elaborate schemes, and when he steals from the rich, the only ones who benefit are Locke and his loyal band of rogues, the Gentleman Bastards. But a dark cloud looms over the ancient city. A mysterious threat stirs, threatening to plunge the underworld into chaos. As a clandestine war brews, Locke and his comrades find themselves ensnared in a deadly game where wit and loyalty are their only weapons. In a world where survival is the ultimate prize, Locke must navigate treacherous waters, where every choice could be his last. Scott Lynch weaves a tale of intrigue and deception, where every twist and turn reveals a new layer of cunning and danger. "The Lies of Locke Lamora" is a spellbinding journey into a world where the line between hero and villain blurs, and survival is the greatest heist of all.

In "Red Seas under Red Skies," master thief Locke Lamora and his steadfast companion Jean Tannen have fled the tumultuous city of Camorr for the promise of new schemes in the vibrant city-state of Tal Verrar. Here, they set their sights on a daring heist: infiltrating the Sinspire, an opulent gambling house that caters only to the elite. To claim the untold riches hidden within, Locke and Jean must outsmart their opponents at the games of chance they believe they have mastered. Yet, as their audacious plan unfolds, the duo finds themselves entangled in unexpected exploits, crossing paths with the infamous pirate captain Zamira Drakasha and her formidable fleet. As if navigating the treacherous waters of piracy weren't enough, Locke must also face the vengeful wrath of the Bondsmagi, powerful sorcerers seeking retribution for past humiliations. Scott Lynch weaves a tale of high seas adventure and cunning deception, layered with wit and intrigue. With every twist and turn, "Red Seas under Red Skies" promises an exhilarating journey filled with danger, deception, and the indomitable spirit of two clever rogues who refuse to back down. Dive into a world where loyalty is tested, and fortunes are won or lost with the roll of the dice.

In a world where the echoes of ancient times still shape the present, the shadows of the sorcerer-kings' minions rise against the androfrancien order. Nebios, a young boy who witnessed the devastating fall of Windwir, embarks on a perilous journey across scorching deserts in search of the fabled Great Library. Haunted by the spectral warnings of his father, he is pursued by mysterious warriors intent on stopping him. In another corner of this tumultuous realm, Jin Li Tam, the formidable queen of the Nine Forest Houses, faces betrayal from within her own ranks. Her loyalists proclaim her son as the prophesied Child of Promise, foretelling the impending rise of the Scarlet Empress. As these prophecies stir unrest, whispers of a new era grow louder. Meanwhile, the last remnants of the androfrancien order, hidden in their sanctuaries, prepare to answer the call of a haunting melody emanating from a silver crescent in the Boiling Desert. As alliances falter and destinies collide, the stage is set for a gripping tale of power, prophecy, and survival. Embark on a journey through a world teetering on the brink of transformation, where every choice echoes through the ages.

In "The Blade Itself," the first installment of Joe Abercrombie's electrifying series, prepare to be swept away into a world where grit and glory clash in epic fashion. Enter a land teetering on the edge of chaos, where the fate of empires rests in the hands of a few unlikely heroes. Meet Logen Ninefingers, a legendary barbarian with a dark past, who must navigate a treacherous path to redemption. Meanwhile, Inquisitor Glokta, a crippled torturer with a razor-sharp mind, finds himself ensnared in the labyrinthine politics of the Union, where secrets are more dangerous than swords. As tensions mount, the enigmatic and powerful mage Bayaz calls upon the most unexpected of allies to aid him in a perilous quest with stakes higher than they could ever imagine. Abercrombie masterfully weaves a tapestry of intrigue, betrayal, and blood-soaked battles, all while crafting characters whose flawed humanity makes them unforgettable. With a blend of razor-sharp wit and relentless action, "The Blade Itself" is a gripping tale that challenges the very notions of heroism and villainy. Dive into a story where every decision could spell the difference between a kingdom's fall and its salvation. Discover why Joe Abercrombie's debut is hailed as a modern classic in fantasy literature.

In "Before They Are Hanged," the gripping sequel to Joe Abercrombie's "The Blade Itself," the stakes are higher, the battles fiercer, and the characters more complex than ever before. As the shadow of war looms over the fractured Union, its very survival hangs by a thread. Logen Ninefingers, the infamous barbarian, is caught in a brutal struggle to reclaim his past while navigating a world where trust is a luxury few can afford. Alongside him, the cunning and ruthless Inquisitor Glokta finds himself at the heart of an intricate web of political intrigue, fighting not only for his life but also for the future of his crumbling city. Meanwhile, the young and privileged Captain Jezal dan Luthar must confront the harsh realities of war—a trial that will test his mettle and reshape his destiny. Abercrombie masterfully weaves dark humor with relentless action, creating a narrative that is as unpredictable as it is enthralling. With richly drawn characters and a plot that twists like a blade through the heart, "Before They Are Hanged" challenges the notions of heroism and villainy, inviting readers to question who truly wears the white hat. Embark on this epic journey where alliances are fragile, and the price of power is steep. Prepare to be captivated by a world where every choice can lead to glory—or ruin.

The looming end draws near. Logen Ninefingers, with his legendary reputation, knows he may have just one last battle left in him—and it's set to be monumental. As warfare engulfs the North, the King of the Northmen remains unyielding, and only one man can hope to stand against him: his oldest friend and fiercest foe. It's time for the Bloody-Nine to return home. Meanwhile, Superior Glokta, a man burdened with too many masters and too little time, fights a different war in the shadows—a secretive game where no one is safe, and trust is nonexistent. Though his days wielding a sword are over, his skill in manipulation, threats, and torture remains unbroken. Jezal dan Luthar has turned his back on the pursuit of glory, longing instead for a simple life with the woman he loves. Yet, love too can be fraught with pain, and glory often returns when least desired. As the King of the Union hovers on the brink of death, chaos ensues with peasants in revolt and nobles vying for the throne. Few recognize the encroaching shadow of war threatening the Union's core. The First of the Magi has a world-saving plan, as always, but the stakes are perilously high. For there is no risk more dire than breaking the First Law. "Last Argument of Kings" is a gripping tale of power, betrayal, and the relentless march of fate.

In a world where ash falls from the sky and mist cloaks the night, the oppressive rule of the immortal Lord Ruler has cast a shadow over the Final Empire for a thousand years. But hope flickers in the most unlikely of places. Vin, a streetwise orphan with a latent and powerful gift for Allomancy, finds herself thrust into a daring plan to overthrow the tyrant. Led by the enigmatic Kelsier, a charismatic leader with a haunted past, Vin joins a group of rebels determined to shatter the chains of the empire. Together, they must harness the forgotten magic of metals, risking everything in a high-stakes game of deception, courage, and rebellion. As Vin learns to master her newfound powers, she discovers that trust is a rare commodity and that the line between ally and enemy is often blurred. Brandon Sanderson's "Mistborn: The Final Empire" weaves an intricate tapestry of intrigue, magic, and revolution. With its richly developed world and unforgettable characters, this epic tale of defiance and destiny will captivate readers and leave them eagerly turning the pages. Prepare to lose yourself in a saga where the fate of an empire hangs in the balance and one girl's courage could change everything.

In "The Well of Ascension," the gripping second installment of the Mistborn series by Brandon Sanderson, the world teeters on the brink of chaos. With the tyrannical Lord Ruler defeated, a power vacuum threatens to engulf the kingdom. Vin, the courageous Mistborn who helped topple the empire, faces an even greater challenge: securing a fractured nation while dark forces gather strength. As Vin and her allies strive to hold the fragile peace, a new menace emerges—a shadowy force determined to claim the throne and unleash havoc. Torn between love and duty, Vin must marshal her formidable powers to combat an enemy unlike any she has faced before. Yet, the ancient legends of the Well of Ascension whisper of a deeper, more perilous destiny that awaits her and the world. Brandon Sanderson weaves a tale of intrigue, magic, and courage, where alliances are fragile and every choice could be the kingdom’s last. Richly layered with complex characters and breathtaking world-building, "The Well of Ascension" invites readers into a realm where heroism is tested, and the fate of humanity hangs in the balance. Dive into this thrilling saga where destiny and free will collide, and discover if Vin can rise to meet her ultimate test.

In the epic conclusion to the Mistborn trilogy, "Hero of Ages," Brandon Sanderson weaves a tale of desperation and discovery. Vin, the courageous heroine, once brought down the oppressive Lord Ruler, believing it would end tyranny. Yet, in sealing the Well of Ascension, she inadvertently unleashed an ancient malevolence. Now, the menacing Inquisitors and lethal mists claim countless lives, while ash rains from the sky, threatening to starve and suffocate the world. Vin and Elend, her steadfast ally and lover, race against time to salvage what remains of their shattered realm. Their quest? To unearth the final secrets left by the Lord Ruler, including the location of the ultimate atium cache—the most potent metal known to the Mistborn—and to uncover the true identity of the Hero of Ages. Sanderson's masterful storytelling and striking imagination have cemented his place among the greats of fantasy literature. "Hero of Ages" promises an unforgettable journey through a richly constructed universe where the stakes are life itself. Join Vin and Elend as they confront the shadows of their world, driven by hope and the burning need for redemption. This is a saga of courage, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of truth. Don't miss the spellbinding finale of Mistborn, a series hailed for its breathtaking narrative and profound themes.