9 Must-Read Fantasy Books That Will Keep You Hooked Until the Last Page

We all occasionally crave an escape from the daily grind, the constant worries, and the mundane problems that life throws our way. Fantasy books offer us that chance to dive into another world where almost anything is possible.

The Allure of Fantasy

What is the world of fantasy like? It’s a realm filled with magic, intrigue, epic battles, and incredible adventures that allow us to break free from the ordinary and immerse ourselves in different realities. If you love fast-paced stories, extraordinary heroes and heroines, and dynamic plots, here are 9 books that will make you fall in love with the fantasy genre.

Top Fantasy Books to Read

“Six of Crows” by Leigh Bardugo
Imagine a team composed of the world’s most dangerous and intelligent criminals. They have to execute a risky heist to kidnap the creator of a dangerous drug that can amplify the magical abilities of the Grisha (people with special magical abilities) to an extraordinary level. You’ll feel the tension in every scene and won’t be able to put the book down until you find out if they can pull off the impossible.
“A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas
This book tells the story of Feyre, a 19-year-old girl who, after killing a faerie, is forced to leave the human world and move to the magical world of Prythian. Here, she falls under the rule of Tamlin, the High Lord of the Spring Court. Feyre tries to find her way home but faces numerous challenges and mysteries, including a magical “blight” affecting the inhabitants of the Spring Court. With intrigue, treacherous plots, and a mysterious prince, this book will make your imagination soar.
“The Chronicles of Amber” by Roger Zelazny
This epic cycle of fantasy novels by American writer Roger Zelazny consists of ten books divided into two pentologies. It’s a true classic of fantasy that you must read. The world of Amber is the only real world, and all others, including Earth, are merely its shadows. Amber is the center of the universe, the place where the throne is located, and it’s constantly fought over by members of the royal family. Prince Corwin, one of the nine contenders for the throne, loses his memory and gradually recovers his memories of his origin, learns about his extraordinary abilities, and tries to balance between the complex intrigues and plots of the royal family.
“Eragon” by Christopher Paolini
Do you love dragons and ancient magical worlds? Then “Eragon” is your choice. This American fantasy novel, published in 2002, is the first part of the “Inheritance” cycle by Christopher Paolini. The story begins with a simple boy, Eragon, who unexpectedly finds a dragon egg. When a dragon named Saphira hatches from it, Eragon’s life changes dramatically. He becomes a Dragon Rider, one of the legendary figures who once protected the land of Alagaësia. The adventure that follows will keep you on the edge of your seat.
“Throne of Glass” by Sarah J. Maas
Another epic story by Maas, where the central heroine is Celaena Sardothien, an assassin who has spent a year in the brutal conditions of the salt mines of Endovier, a place from which no one has returned alive. However, when she gets a chance, she participates in a dangerous competition for the right to become the royal champion. This competition gathers the best criminals and warriors from across the country, and the prize is freedom. You’ll be rooting for Celaena’s success, admiring her strength and determination.
“From Blood and Ash” by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Poppy is the chosen one, on whom the future of her world depends. Her life is one of solitude, isolation, and lack of real choice. She is untouchable, has no right to pleasure, and lives in anticipation of her “Ascension,” the moment when her destiny will become clear and understandable. But she has her own plans and is ready to challenge the system. The story is full of passion, danger, and unexpected twists.
“Fourth Wing” by Rebecca Yarros
This fantasy novel by Rebecca Yarros takes place in a brutal military college for dragon riders in the fictional country of Navarra. The main heroine, 20-year-old Violet Sorrengail, dreams of becoming a scribe, but at the behest of her mother, General Lilith Sorrengail, she is forced to join the deadly Rider Quadrant. Violet, who is not physically strong, becomes a target for her classmates, and to survive in this brutal world, she will need all her wits and luck.
“The Poppy War” by R.F. Kuang
The debut novel by R.F. Kuang takes place in an alternate China in the mid-20th century, where the main heroine, Rin, an orphan from a poor province, decides to change her life. After successfully passing the Keju exam, she enters the prestigious military academy of Sinegard, where she faces the harsh realities of student life and discovers her abilities in shamanism. As the country plunges into chaos due to the war with the Mugen Federation, Rin is forced to fight for survival, learning magic and trying to avenge the enemies who threaten her world. Learn more about the author.
“The Cruel Prince” by Holly Black
This captivating story is about Jude, a mortal girl who grew up among the faeries—creatures that are both stunningly beautiful and terrifyingly treacherous. Discovering the cruelty of the faeries, Jude seeks to find her place in their world despite the contempt and bullying from the young faeries, especially Prince Cardan. When her plan fails, she receives an unexpected proposal. Passionate power struggles, dangerous plots, and whimsical characters make this book unforgettable.

Conclusion

Fantasy books offer a unique escape from reality, allowing us to immerse ourselves in worlds filled with magic, adventure, and intrigue. Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy reader or new to the genre, these 9 books are sure to keep you hooked until the very last page.