2024’s Best Fantasy Books Ever: Top 11 Reviewed

Here's our list of the best fantasy books ever. Each tale transports readers to magical worlds filled with adventure and mystery.
The Name of the Wind coverMistborn: The Final Empire coverA Wizard of Earthsea cover

Unlocking the wonders of imaginary worlds, we present our list of the 11 best fantasy books ever. In selecting these works, we focus on engaging plots, riveting characters, and vivid world-building. Our choices reflect a variety of styles and adventures, ensuring there’s something for every fantasy lover out there. Whether you’re a seasoned magic enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this collection promises to transport you to realms beyond your wildest dreams.

On this list:

11 The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

The Name of the Wind cover

  • Genre: Epic Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2007
  • Pages: 662

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This book is a masterclass in storytelling. Kvothe’s adventure is full of magic and mystery. We couldn’t put it down.

10 Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson

Mistborn: The Final Empire cover

  • Genre: High Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2006
  • Pages: 541

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Sanderson’s magic system in this book is brilliant. It’s like playing a game where the rules are fun, yet complex.

9 A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin

A Wizard of Earthsea cover

  • Genre: Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1968
  • Pages: 183

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A classic coming-of-age tale with dragons and wizards. Le Guin’s writing is poetic, and the story is enchanting.

8 The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch

The Lies of Locke Lamora cover

  • Genre: Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2006
  • Pages: 719

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This book has some of the best heists. The dialogue is witty and the plot is full of twists.

7 The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Hobbit cover

  • Genre: Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1937
  • Pages: 310

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A delightful adventure that’s perfect for readers of all ages. Tolkien’s world-building is unmatched.

6 Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling

  • Genre: Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1997
  • Pages: 309

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The book that started the Harry Potter phenomenon. It’s magical, engaging, and a must-read for fantasy lovers.

5 The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson

The Way of Kings cover

  • Genre: Epic Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2010
  • Pages: 1007

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A tome of epic proportions. Sanderson builds a complex world with deep characters and a gripping plot.

4 American Gods by Neil Gaiman

American Gods cover

  • Genre: Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2001
  • Pages: 465

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A surreal journey across America, mixing myths with modern life. Gaiman’s storytelling is uniquely captivating.

3 The Wheel of Time: The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan

The Wheel of Time: The Eye of the World cover

  • Genre: Epic Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1990
  • Pages: 814

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This book kicks off one of the longest and most beloved fantasy series. Vast world and an epic story.

2 A Song of Ice and Fire: A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin

A Song of Ice and Fire: A Game of Thrones cover

  • Genre: Epic Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1996
  • Pages: 694

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Power, politics, and dragons. Martin keeps you on edge with unpredictable plots and deeply woven characters.

1 The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring cover

  • Genre: Epic Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1954
  • Pages: 423

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In our opinion, this book is the best fantasy book ever. Tolkien’s Middle-earth creation is legendary. The characters feel real and the adventure is timeless. We were swept off our feet by the depth of the story and the richness of the world. It’s a book that has influenced countless others and stands as a beacon in the fantasy genre. The courage of Frodo and his companions inspires us every time we read it. The language is beautiful, and the themes of friendship and sacrifice resonate deeply.

Steve Peterson Cartoonified
Steve Peterson

Hi there! I'm Steve Peterson, a passionate reading enthusiast who loves nothing more than getting lost in a good book. My love for literature spans across genres, from thrilling mysteries and gripping fantasy to thought-provoking non-fiction.

I hope my reviews help you find the perfect next book to dive into!