12 Best Fantasy Novels Ever Reviewed for 2024

Searching for the best fantasy novel ever? Our list of top picks will guide you to magical worlds and adventures.
The Hobbit coverThe Name of the Wind coverA Song of Ice and Fire cover

Embark on an imagination-filled journey with our list of the 12 best fantasy novel ever books. We sift through countless pages, focusing on captivating plots, unforgettable characters, and magical worlds that draw readers into epic adventures. Our picks aim to spark joy, curiosity, and sometimes laughter. Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy lover or new to the genre, these tales will leave you spellbound and searching for hidden realms in real life.

On this list:

12 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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This book takes us on a journey with Bilbo Baggins, showcasing an incredible fantasy world. It’s a classic and a must-read for any fantasy fan.

11 The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

The Name of the Wind cover

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

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Rothfuss crafts a magical and intricate world, bringing us the tale of Kvothe, a legendary figure. Beautifully written with unforgettable characters.

10 A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin

A Song of Ice and Fire cover

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

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Filled with political intrigue, dragons, and epic battles, this series keeps readers on their toes. A staple for fantasy lovers.

9 Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson

Mistborn: The Final Empire cover

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

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Sanderson introduces a unique magic system and an engaging plot. It’s a fresh take on fantasy with well-developed characters.

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: 722

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A heist story mixed with fantasy elements, this book is clever and witty, with a cunning protagonist that you can’t help but root for.

7 The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan

The Wheel of Time cover

  • Genre: Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1990
  • Pages: 685

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Spanning 14 books, Jordan’s epic fantasy series is a massive journey. It’s detailed with a rich plot and a large cast of characters.

6 The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon

The Priory of the Orange Tree cover

  • Genre: Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2019
  • Pages: 848

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This standalone epic fantasy features dragons and powerful women. It’s a refreshing take with a hopeful and diverse narrative.

5 The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

The Chronicles of Narnia cover

  • Genre: Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1950
  • Pages: 767

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A gateway into fantasy for many, Lewis’s series is filled with magical creatures and adventures that capture the imagination.

4 The Dark Tower by Stephen King

The Dark Tower cover

  • Genre: Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1982
  • Pages: 845

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A unique blend of fantasy, horror, and western, King spins a tale of a quest unlike any other, filled with unexpected twists.

3 The Silmarillion by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Silmarillion cover

  • Genre: Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1977
  • Pages: 365

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A deeper look into the lore of Middle-earth, this book is a treasure trove of tales and legends, perfect for hardcore Tolkien fans.

2 The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson

The Stormlight Archive cover

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

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Sanderson delivers another hit with a world full of complex characters and an innovative magic system. It’s epic in every sense.

1 The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Lord of the Rings cover

  • Genre: Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1954
  • Pages: 1178

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This is the best fantasy novel ever for a reason. Tolkien’s epic saga of good versus evil is the bedrock of modern fantasy. From Hobbits to wizards to elves, Middle-earth is alive with adventure and peril. We’ve read it countless times and always find something new. The depth of the world, the intricate languages, and the timeless themes of bravery and friendship make it a masterpiece. No wonder it tops our list. It’s like the cozy blanket of fantasy novels, always there to wrap you in its rich narrative whenever reality feels a bit too mundane. Truly, there’s no place like Middle-earth.

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!