12 Best Epic Fantasy Books Reviewed in 2025
Enjoy thrilling adventures with epic fantasy books. Discover diverse worlds, brave heroes, and magical realms that captivate every reader's heart.
Finding the best epic fantasy books can be as thrilling as embarking on a dragon’s ride! We’ve scoured libraries and, yes, even borrowed from friends to find the true gems of epic fantasy literature. Our selection focuses on gripping storytelling, unforgettable characters, mind-blowing world-building, and, of course, the thrill of adventure. With these twelve masterpieces, you’ll never want to leave the magical worlds they create. So, grab your reading glasses and get ready to be swept away by tales of wonder, epic fantasy style!
On this list:
12 Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson
Mistborn kicks off with a bang. It’s got mystery, action, and a magic system that’s so clever it could tie your shoelaces for you.
11 The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
This book is like putting on a comfy pair of slippers. The tale has everything—magic, music, and a hero who likes to mess up.
10 The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson
Sanderson’s world-building here is thicker than grandma’s jam. The story is epic, with big battles and even bigger characters.
9 A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin
Dragons, political intrigue, and unexpected plot twists—this series is more addictive than your grandma’s cookies.
8 The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch
A heist story meets epic fantasy. This one features conmen, action, and humor that’ll have you snorting your coffee.
7 The Black Prism by Brent Weeks
This series uses light as magic. It’s a bright idea that has more angles than your high school geometry class.
6 The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan
Spanning 14 books, this series is as expansive as your uncle’s storytelling. It’s got heroes, villains, and more plot twists than a rollercoaster.
5 The Broken Empire by Mark Lawrence
Gritty and dark, this series is like a cup of strong coffee. It’ll keep you awake with its relentless pace and moral ambiguity.
4 The First Law Trilogy by Joe Abercrombie
Filled with dark humor and even darker characters, this series is a playground for those who like their fantasy gritty.
3 The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson
Sanderson could probably write epic fantasy in his sleep. This series is expansive, with a cast of characters larger than a football team.
2 The Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson
This one feels like a class reunion—big, sprawling, and full of people you’ll struggle to remember, but can’t help but love.
