Best Fantasy Series 2025: Top 9 Must-Read Picks

Explore thrilling fantasy series, from epic quests to magical realms, in books that will captivate and transport your imagination.

The Name of the Wind coverThe Way of Kings coverMistborn: The Final Empire cover

Choosing the best fantasy series is like picking the perfect donut. Each has its unique charm, and honestly, who doesn’t love a good donut? We focus on books that whisk you off on epic adventures, filled with gripping stories and unforgettable characters. We love tales that tug at heartstrings, spark a giggle, or make you stay up way past your bedtime. In this ultimate list, we explore nine fantasy series that bring the magic to life. Whether it’s sword fights, spell-casting, or a touch of epic romance, these books have something for everyone.

On this list:

9 The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

The Name of the Wind cover

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

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Kvothe’s tale is one of magic, love, and adventure. We got hooked by the storytelling style, but it can be slow at times.

8 The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson

The Way of Kings cover

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

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This starts the Stormlight Archive, mixing complex characters with epic world-building. A bit hefty, but worth the weight!

7 Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson

Mistborn: The Final Empire cover

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

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Unique magic system with a thrilling plot. We loved Vin’s journey but found the names a bit challenging to pronounce.

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

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

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A classic for all ages, this book got us into fantasy and spells. Familiar to many but always a delightful read.

5 A Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin

A Game of Thrones cover

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

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Begin a world of political intrigue and battles. We loved the gripping drama but found it a little too gory.

4 The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch

The Lies of Locke Lamora cover

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

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Roguish charm and witty banter! We laughed a lot but found some of the plot twists a bit too far-fetched.

3 The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Hobbit cover

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

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Simple yet engaging, this was our gateway to Middle-earth. It’s a bit old-school but still holds the charm.

2 The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang

The Poppy War cover

  • Genre: Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audio
  • Year released: 2018
  • Pages: 544

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This one blends history and fantasy flawlessly. The brutal realism might not be for everyone, but it’s thought-provoking.

1 The Lord of the Rings (Boxed Set) by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Lord of the Rings (Boxed Set) cover

  • Genre: Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audio
  • Year released: 1954-1955
  • Pages: 1178

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The most epic fantasy series! This one is special because it’s the father of all modern fantasy. We embarked on a journey full of magic, fellowship, and adventure from the Shire to Mordor. Even though some parts can be a tad slow, the overall tale is a masterpiece. The depth of the world-building and the richness of the characters blew us away. It’s the series that every fantasy lover must read at least once. Available as a boxed set on Amazon, it’s the best way to immerse yourself in Tolkien’s world.

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!