Best 9 High Fantasy Books to Read in 2025

High fantasy books are epic! Think magic, dragons, and sprawling worlds. Let’s explore the best ones to start your journey.

The Hobbit coverThe Name of the Wind coverMistborn: The Final Empire cover

Searching for the ultimate adventure in high fantasy books? You’re in the right place! We’ve scoured the shelves like hobbits hunting for second breakfast to find the top 9 high fantasy books that’ll transport you to faraway lands. From intricate world-building to epic battles and unforgettable characters, our selections promise to whisk you away on thrilling quests. Get ready to explore magical worlds where dragons soar, heroes rise, and the fate of realms hangs in balance. Whether you’re new to high fantasy or a seasoned reader, these books will ignite your imagination and keep you turning the pages long into the night.

On this list:

9 The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Hobbit cover

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

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A perfect introduction to high fantasy books. Tolkien tells a tale that captures adventure, friendship, and dragon fights. Every reread feels like a warm hug!

8 The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

The Name of the Wind cover

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

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The storytelling here is like a delicious cake you can’t stop eating. Kvothe’s journey has magic, music, and mystery. And who doesn’t love a good bard?

7 Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson

Mistborn: The Final Empire cover

  • Genre: High Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2006
  • Pages: 672

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Sanderson doesn’t just write fantasy; he crafts worlds. Metal-eating magic? Yes, please! The plot twists will keep you guessing until the end.

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

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Winter is coming. So are dragons, politics, and betrayals. This book redefined high fantasy books with its detailed characters and unpredictable plot.

5 The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch

The Lies of Locke Lamora cover

  • Genre: High Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2006
  • Pages: 722

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Think Ocean’s Eleven but in a fantasy setting. Locke and his crew will steal your heart while plotting their next big heist. Cunning and playful.

4 The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson

The Way of Kings cover

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

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Epic, immersive, and visionary. It’s like watching a cinematic masterpiece unfold in your mind. A true testament to Sanderson’s storytelling prowess.

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

The Wheel of Time: The Eye of the World cover

  • Genre: High Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1990
  • Pages: 782

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A mammoth of a series that started it all. Jordan’s intricate world-building and rich character arcs make it a cornerstone in the high fantasy books genre.

2 The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

The Chronicles of Narnia cover

  • Genre: High Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1950
  • Pages: 768 (Complete Series)

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Step through the wardrobe into a world of wonder. Lewis weaves tales of bravery, magic, and the eternal struggle between good and evil.

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

The Lord of the Rings Trilogy cover

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

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The crown jewel of high fantasy books. Tolkien’s world-building is unparalleled. Frodo’s quest is legendary and proves that even the smallest person can change the course of history.

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!