Best Epic Fantasy Book Series 2025: Top 5 Reviewed

Looking for an epic fantasy book series? These picks have magic, heroes, dragons, and twists that will keep you up late reading.

The Name of the Wind coverThe Way of Kings coverThe Lies of Locke Lamora cover

If you’re anything like us, picking a new epic fantasy book series can feel like questing for a magic sword—exciting, but tricky. We’ve read, argued, and laughed our way through countless tomes to bring you the 5 best epic fantasy book series based on gripping storylines, unforgettable worlds, and wild plot twists. Whether you’re new to the genre or can already speak fluent dragon, we’ve made sure every pick will keep your pages turning (and maybe even your sleep schedule ruined).

On this list:

5 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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We picked ‘The Name of the Wind’ because it’s a must-read epic fantasy book series for anyone who loves smart heroes and magic that actually makes sense. The main guy, Kvothe, is a legend—but he messes up as much as he wins, which is way more fun than just reading about some perfect hero. The story moves at a good pace, and there’s tons of action, music, and a big, rich world. Plus, it’s easy to grab on Amazon in every format you want.

4 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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We picked this because it’s a kick-butt epic fantasy book series with huge battles, wild magic, and some really colorful characters. Sanderson’s world-building is cooler than our cousin’s Minecraft server, and let us tell ya, that’s saying something. Plus, it’s available on Amazon, so you won’t have to trade your neighbor’s cow for a copy.

3 The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch

The Lies of Locke Lamora cover

  • Genre: Epic fantasy, Heist, Adventure
  • Formats: Kindle, Hardcover, Paperback, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2006
  • Pages: 544

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We picked The Lies of Locke Lamora because it’s a clever, fast-paced epic fantasy book series with a fun crew, wild heists, and twisting plots. Unlike some epic fantasy series, this one has a sense of humor—think Ocean’s Eleven meets swords and alchemy. It’s perfect if you love smart characters who get into (and out of) big, messy trouble.

2 The Shadow of the Gods by John Gwynne

The Shadow of the Gods cover

  • Genre: Epic Fantasy, Norse Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2021
  • Pages: 496

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We went with this because it’s a punchy epic fantasy book series that kicks off a wild Norse-inspired adventure. It’s got monsters, bloody battles, and the kind of found-family vibes that keep us turning the pages. If you like fresh worlds and big stakes, this one’s a great pick.

1 The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie

The Blade Itself cover

  • Genre: Epic Fantasy, Grimdark
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2006
  • Pages: 527

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We picked this one for fans who want their epic fantasy book series with gritty heroes, dark humor, and lots of action. The characters are a real mess, but in a good, page-turning way. Just don’t expect anyone to save the world without a few missing teeth or broken dreams.

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!