Hey, friends! Today, we’re venturing into the magical world of fantasy—a realm filled with dragons, fae, thrilling battles, and unforgettable adventures. If you’re new to this genre and craving an escape into enchanting realms, you’ve come to the right place. From epic battles to heart-stirring romances, these five fantasy books will ignite your imagination and keep you spellbound for hours on end. So, fasten your seatbelts, and let’s embark on this fantastical journey!
Kicking off our list is the spellbinding Throne of Glass by the incomparable Sarah J. Maas. Meet Celaena Sardothien, a deadly assassin with a wicked past, forced into a competition to win her freedom. The stakes are high, and the obstacles she faces will challenge not only her fighting skills but her very heart. Get ready for jaw-dropping plot twists, intricate world-building, and a fierce protagonist you won’t be able to resist cheering for. As the series unfolds, brace yourself for a rollercoaster ride of emotions, epic battles, and a dash of romance that will leave you breathless. Throne of Glass is the gateway to a breathtaking fantasy universe that will have you yearning for more!
If you like your fantasy more family-friendly, I would definitely start here. While there is a romantic element, the spicy scenes are fade to black in the first few books and very mild or non existent in the latter books. A perfect dip into the fantasy world.
Okay, I couldn’t create a list like this and NOT add the TikTok sensation that is ACOTAR. Welcome to the lush and seductive world of A Court of Thorns and Roses, also penned by the brilliant Sarah J. Maas. Enter Feyre Archeron, a huntress who unknowingly steps into a perilous faerie realm after killing a wolf in the woods. Her actions carry consequences, leading her to the heart of the feared High Fae’s court. What follows is an enchanting tale of love, sacrifice, and loyalty as Feyre navigates a world where danger and desire intertwine. With its vivid descriptions, passionate romance, and epic battles, A Court of Thorns and Roses will leave you bewitched from start to finish.
If you want to experience fantasy romance at its most popular, I would 10000% recommend this series. This series is popular for a reason and is on many readers’ favourites list.
Venture into the captivating world of “Babel” as we follow Robin Swift’s journey from orphaned in Canton to a promising scholar in London under the guidance of Professor Lovell. His goal: enrollment in the prestigious Royal Institute of Translation, where magic and knowledge intertwine. Silver-working, the arcane art of imbuing enchanted silver bars with lost meanings from translations, fuels the British Empire’s quest for power and colonization. However, Robin’s loyalty is tested as he grapples with serving Babel and his motherland, China. Caught between the institution and the clandestine Hermes Society, dedicated to stopping imperial expansion, Robin faces a life-changing decision amidst an unjust war. Can he change powerful institutions from within, or must revolution demand violence? In “Babel,” the pursuit of knowledge meets a world of magic and complex choices that will leave you spellbound.
Step into the cutthroat world of dragon riders at Basgiath War College in this heart-pounding tale from USA Today bestselling author Rebecca Yarros. Meet Violet Sorrengail, destined for the Scribe Quadrant, but thrown into the race to become an elite dragon rider by her tough-as-nails mother. With her fragile physique, bonding with dragons seems impossible, and the odds stack against her. As deadly secrets and ruthless competitors lurk, Violet must rely on her wits to survive. Amidst a war-torn kingdom and failing defenses, every day brings new challenges, alliances, and betrayals. At Basgiath War College, the path to victory is treacherous, and the only options are to graduate or die. When I tell you this is the best, not only fantasy, but the best book I have ever read I am not exaggerating. This should be top of your list!
Last but certainly not least, we have The Hobbit—a timeless classic that remains an evergreen favorite among fantasy lovers. Join Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who embarks on an unexpected adventure with a group of dwarves, led by the legendary Thorin Oakenshield. Together, they face fearsome dragons, cunning trolls, and treacherous goblins in their quest to reclaim a stolen treasure. J.R.R. Tolkien’s enchanting prose and the magical world of Middle-earth will whisk you away on an unforgettable journey. Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy reader or just starting your quest, The Hobbit is a must-read that will warm your heart and ignite your wanderlust for fantastical lands.
Congratulations! You’ve now been introduced to five fantastical worlds brimming with adventure, romance, and epic battles. From Sarah J. Maas’s gripping sagas to Rebecca Yarros’s urban fantasy, the breathtaking world of R.F. Kuang, and the timeless classic of J.R.R. Tolkien, each book offers a unique escape into realms of imagination. So, grab your favorite reading spot, a steaming cup of tea, and immerse yourself in these captivating tales. Fantasy awaits, and the adventures are boundless—happy reading!
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*Disclosure: I only recommend products I would or have used myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. This post may contain affiliate links that, at no additional cost to you, allow me to earn a small commission on qualifying purchases.