Popular Fantasy Books You Need to Read

“Mistborn: The Final Empire” by Brandon Sanderson is a popular fantasy novel that has captivated readers with its unique magic system and thrilling plot. It takes place in a world where ash falls from the sky and a tyrannical ruler, the Lord Ruler, oppresses the people. However, a group of rebels, led by the charismatic Kelsier, plots to overthrow him.

Vin, a young thief with a mysterious past, joins their cause. She discovers she has powerful abilities and trains to become a Mistborn, a warrior who can manipulate metals. This action-packed adventure is full of twists and turns, and it’s a must-read for fans of epic fantasy.

“Jade City” by Fonda Lee is a popular fantasy novel that blends martial arts and magic in a thrilling tale of family and power. The Kaul family rules the island of Kekon, their strength enhanced by jade. However, rival clans threaten their control, and internal conflicts strain their bonds.

When war breaks out, the Kauls must fight to protect their legacy and their city. This action-packed novel explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the cost of power. If you love complex characters and a unique magic system, “Jade City” is a must-read.

Graceling” by Kristin Cashore is a popular YA fantasy novel that has captivated readers with its strong female protagonist and unique magic system. Katsa possesses a deadly Grace, or superhuman ability, which she uses to serve her uncle, the king, as an assassin. However, Katsa yearns for freedom and a life beyond violence.

She meets Po, a Graceling with a unique ability of his own. Together, they uncover a dark secret that threatens their kingdom. Katsa must choose between loyalty and her desire for a different life. This thrilling novel explores themes of power, identity, and finding your voice.

“Assassin’s Apprentice” by Robin Hobb is a beloved classic that continues to captivate fantasy readers. It follows Fitz, a young boy raised as a royal bastard. He possesses a magical ability called the Wit, which allows him to connect with animals. However, this gift also makes him an outcast.

Fitz trains as an assassin to protect the kingdom, but his path is fraught with danger and betrayal. He must navigate court intrigue, forge alliances, and confront his own inner demons. This coming-of-age story is full of heart, heartbreak, and unforgettable characters.

“Divine Rivals” by Rebecca Ross is a captivating YA fantasy that has become a favorite among readers. It follows Iris and Roman, two young journalists who find themselves caught in a war between the gods. They are rivals at first, competing for the same job. However, their connection deepens as they exchange anonymous letters.

Iris and Roman must work together to uncover the truth behind the gods’ conflict and protect their world. This enchanting novel blends romance, mythology, and adventure, making it a must-read for fans of fantasy and forbidden love stories.

“The Name of the Wind” by Patrick Rothfuss is a beloved fantasy novel that has captivated readers worldwide. It follows Kvothe, a legendary hero and musician, as he recounts his extraordinary life. However, Kvothe’s past is shrouded in mystery and tragedy.

From his childhood as an orphan to his time at a magical university, Kvothe’s story is full of adventure, magic, and heartbreak. This beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel is a must-read for fans of fantasy and storytelling.

“Six of Crows” by Leigh Bardugo is a thrilling heist novel that has captured the hearts of fantasy fans everywhere. It follows a crew of six talented outcasts who attempt a dangerous heist. They must infiltrate the impenetrable Ice Court, a fortress of magic and secrets.

However, their mission is fraught with danger. They face deadly rivals, navigate treacherous traps, and confront their own inner demons. This action-packed story is full of witty banter, complex characters, and a richly imagined world.

“Black Sun” by Rebecca Roanhorse is a captivating fantasy novel inspired by Pre-Columbian Americas. It follows a diverse cast of characters whose destinies intertwine on the day of a rare celestial event. Xiala, a Teek ship captain with a magical voice, transports a young man named Serapio on a dangerous journey.

However, Serapio is not who he seems. He’s destined for greatness, but his path is fraught with peril. This richly imagined novel is full of political intrigue, ancient prophecies, and a unique magic system. It’s a must-read for fans of fantasy and mythology.

“Fourth Wing” by Rebecca Yarros is a thrilling fantasy romance that has taken the book world by storm. It follows Violet Sorrengail, a young woman who dreams of becoming a dragon rider. However, she faces prejudice and a dangerous training program with a high casualty rate.

Violet must overcome her fears and prove her worth. She forms an unlikely alliance with a powerful dragon rider named Xaden Riorson. Their connection ignites a forbidden romance amidst a looming war. This action-packed novel is a must-read for fans of fantasy and romance.

“The Fifth Season” by N.K. Jemisin is a groundbreaking fantasy novel that has captivated readers worldwide. It takes place on a supercontinent ravaged by apocalyptic “Seasons” of environmental destruction. People with the power to control the earth, known as “orogenes,” are both feared and exploited.

The story follows three orogene women: Essun, Damaya, and Syenite. Each woman faces unique challenges and struggles to survive in a hostile world. This powerful and thought-provoking novel explores themes of oppression, resilience, and the enduring human spirit.

“Nettle & Bone” by T. Kingfisher is a darkly charming fantasy novel that has quickly become a reader favorite. Marra is a princess who refuses to be a damsel in distress. She embarks on a quest to kill her abusive brother-in-law, the prince, and save her niece from a terrible fate. However, she’s not your typical fairytale princess.

Marra gathers a band of unlikely allies: a warrior-priestess, a necromancer, and a demon-possessed chicken. They face dangerous trials and dark magic as they journey to confront the prince. This humorous and heartwarming tale is a must-read for fans of fantasy who enjoy unconventional characters and a touch of the macabre.

“A Darker Shade of Magic” by V.E. Schwab is a captivating fantasy novel that has become a fan favorite. It introduces a world of parallel Londons, each with its own unique magic and dangers. Kell, an Antari, travels between these worlds, carrying messages and smuggling goods. However, he gets caught up in a dangerous conspiracy that threatens to destroy all of them.

Kell teams up with Lila Bard, a quick-witted thief, to protect a powerful magical artifact. They face treacherous enemies and uncover dark secrets as they fight to save the worlds they know. This action-packed and imaginative novel is a must-read for fans of fantasy and adventure.

“The Rage of Dragons” by Evan Winter is an epic fantasy novel inspired by African cultures. It follows Tau, a young man who dreams of becoming a noble warrior. However, his life takes a tragic turn when his father is murdered and his family is disgraced.

Fueled by vengeance, Tau enlists in the army and trains to become a fearsome fighter. He faces brutal battles, political intrigue, and the awakening of a powerful ancient magic. This gripping novel is a must-read for fans of fantasy and African-inspired stories.

“The Bear and the Nightingale” by Katherine Arden is a beautifully written fantasy novel inspired by Russian folklore. It follows Vasya, a young woman who can see the spirits that protect her home. However, her family dismisses her abilities as childish fantasies.

When a new priest arrives and denounces the old ways, the protective spirits weaken, and a dangerous frost demon threatens the village. Vasya must embrace her powers and confront the darkness to save her family and her home. This captivating novel is a must-read for fans of atmospheric fantasy and folklore-inspired tales.

“The Poppy War” by R.F. Kuang is a dark and gritty fantasy novel that has captivated readers with its complex characters and brutal depiction of war. It follows Rin, a war orphan who fights to escape her impoverished background. She earns a place at Sinegard, a prestigious military academy. However, she soon discovers that war is on the horizon.

Rin unlocks a dangerous power within herself, a connection to a vengeful god. She must learn to control her abilities and navigate a world of violence, betrayal, and political intrigue. This captivating and thought-provoking novel explores the horrors of war and the complexities of power.

“Legendborn” by Tracy Deonn is a captivating YA fantasy novel that blends Arthurian legends with Southern Black girl magic. Bree Matthews, grieving the loss of her mother, enrolls in a program at UNC-Chapel Hill. However, she soon discovers a secret society of demon hunters on campus.

These “Legendborn” students are descendants of King Arthur’s knights. Bree unlocks a hidden magical lineage of her own, leading her on a quest to uncover the truth. This thrilling and emotional story is quickly becoming one of the most popular fantasy books, captivating readers with its unique blend of magic, mystery, and social commentary.

Kings of the Wyld” by Nicholas Eames is a fun and refreshing fantasy novel that has quickly become a fan favorite. It follows a band of aging mercenaries who reunite for one last adventure. Clay Cooper, a retired warrior, must gather his old bandmates to rescue his daughter. However, their glory days are long past, and their skills have dulled.

This band of unlikely heroes faces dangerous creatures, treacherous landscapes, and their own personal demons. “Kings of the Wyld” is a hilarious and heartwarming tale of friendship, redemption, and the enduring power of rock and roll (with a fantasy twist, of course!).

“Throne of Glass” by Sarah J. Maas is a popular YA fantasy novel that launched a beloved series. Celaena Sardothien, a young assassin, is offered a chance at freedom. However, she must first compete in a deadly competition to become the King’s Champion.

Celaena trains with the Captain of the Guard and faces challenges that test her skills and her morals. She uncovers a dark conspiracy that threatens her world. This action-packed novel is full of magic, romance, and unforgettable characters.

“The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern is a captivating fantasy novel that has enchanted readers worldwide. It tells the story of Le Cirque des Rêves, a mysterious circus that appears without warning. Inside its black-and-white tents, magical performers and enchanting illusions captivate audiences. However, a hidden competition lies at the heart of the circus.

Two young magicians, Celia and Marco, are bound by a challenge neither of them fully understands. Their fates intertwine as they create increasingly wondrous displays of magic. This beautifully written and atmospheric novel is a must-read for fans of fantasy and romance.

“From Blood and Ash” by Jennifer L. Armentrout is a captivating fantasy romance that has become a fan favorite. It follows Poppy, a young woman chosen by the gods and destined for a life of seclusion. However, her world changes when she meets Hawke, a handsome and mysterious guard.

Their connection is forbidden, but their attraction is undeniable. As they navigate a world of danger and ancient magic, Poppy discovers a hidden truth about herself and her destiny. This action-packed novel is full of romance, adventure, and a touch of darkness.