Best Fantasy book series of all time

Introduction

From secret doorways opening into hidden realms to courageous heroes wielding magic and steel, fantasy has an unparalleled ability to transport us beyond the confines of our everyday lives. Whether you’re diving into an ancient prophecy or witnessing the rise of an unlikely hero, this genre sparks our imaginations, immersing us in worlds where anything is possible and wonder lurks around every corner.

Fantasy stands apart for its deep world-building, memorable characters, and epic quests that push the limits of human (and non-human) potential. Authors painstakingly craft new landscapes—complete with history, mythologies, and magic systems—offering readers a grand stage on which timeless themes of friendship, destiny, and hope unfold. It’s this blend of creativity and universal storytelling that keeps fans coming back for more, generation after generation.

Criteria for Selection

When deciding which fantasy series have truly stood the test of time—or are on track to do so—we rely on a few key benchmarks that reflect both reader enthusiasm and the craft of storytelling.

1. Popularity & Cultural Impact
   A devoted, widespread following often signals that a series has resonated with readers on a deep level. We look for books that have ignited fandoms, sparked passionate discussions, and even influenced pop culture—whether through adaptations, merchandise, or active online communities.
2. World-Building & Creativity
   One of the defining qualities of fantasy is the construction of an immersive, believable universe. Series that make our list typically feature richly imagined settings, nuanced magic systems, and well-thought-out histories or mythologies. It’s this elaborate tapestry that elevates the stories from mere escapism to fully realized alternate realities.
3. Character Development
   Even the most awe-inspiring realms mean little without characters who captivate our hearts and minds. We look for protagonists and supporting characters with depth, growth, and moral complexity. Whether they’re dragon riders, wizards, or royal heirs, truly unforgettable characters are those who stay with us long after we’ve turned the last page.
4. Legacy & Influence
   Finally, we consider each series’ broader impact on the fantasy genre. Did it set a new standard or inspire a wave of similar works? Has it remained relevant despite the passage of time? These are telltale signs that a series has reached landmark status and deserves recognition among the best of all time.

The list

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

1. Overview
   Widely hailed as the grandfather of modern fantasy, The Lord of the Rings whisks readers into Middle-earth—a land teeming with diverse races, magical artifacts, and ancient lore. This trilogy follows the epic journey of Frodo Baggins and the Fellowship as they endeavor to destroy the One Ring and thwart the dark lord Sauron.
2. Key Highlights
   • Epic Scope: Sprawling landscapes and grand battles set the stage for a sweeping, world-altering quest.
   • Rich Mythology: Tolkien devised intricate histories, languages, and races (Elves, Dwarves, Hobbits, etc.) that make Middle-earth feel alive and deeply rooted in its own legends.
   • Timeless Themes: Heroism, friendship, sacrifice, and the triumph of hope over despair echo across generations, resonating with readers both old and new.
3. Why It’s on the List
   The Lord of the Rings is the touchstone for epic fantasy. It established many conventions of the genre—complex world-building, sprawling quests, and morally resonant themes—and remains the benchmark by which countless other series are measured.

Looking for a complete collection? Get the beautifully bound Boxed Set or delve deeper with The Silmarillion for more of Tolkien’s lore. (Purchases through our Amazon affiliate links help fund this site and keep our content free—thank you for your support!)

The Inheritance Cycle (Eragon) by Christopher Paolini

1. Overview
   The Inheritance Cycle starts with young farm boy Eragon, whose life is forever changed when he unearths a mysterious blue stone—revealed to be a dragon egg. This discovery launches him into an adventure of self-discovery, magic, and epic battles, set against the tyrannical rule of an evil king.
2. Key Highlights
   • Classic Dragon-Rider Lore with a Modern Twist
     The series adds contemporary sensibilities to a time-honored fantasy trope, blending age-old dragon legends with youthful protagonists and fast-paced storytelling.
   • Broad Appeal
     While The Inheritance Cycle is particularly popular among young adult readers, the vivid storytelling and universal themes of courage and destiny have endeared it to a broader audience.
3. Why It’s on the List
   Christopher Paolini’s undeniable enthusiasm for fantasy—evident in his meticulous world-building and heartfelt character arcs—makes this series a perfect gateway for newcomers. It captures the essence of high fantasy while remaining accessible, inspiring countless readers to dive deeper into the genre.

Looking to embark on a dragon-filled adventure? Start with Eragon or dive into the full Inheritance Cycle boxed set to experience the entire epic journey. (Purchases through our Amazon affiliate links help fund this site and keep our content free—thank you for your support!)

The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson

1. Overview
   The Stormlight Archive unfolds in Roshar, a storm-battered world where hurricane-like tempests shape daily life and ancient powers lie dormant. Across multiple books—each as thick as a tome—Brandon Sanderson weaves an epic tale involving knights, kings, and warriors bound by mysterious oaths and propelled by arcane abilities.
2. Key Highlights
   • Incredibly Intricate World-Building and Magic (Surgebinding)
     Sanderson’s hallmark is his detailed magic systems. In Roshar, Surgebinders manipulate forces like gravity and adhesion, adding layers of creativity and complexity to an already mesmerizing setting.
   • Multiple POV Characters and Deep Personal Growth
     The story unfolds through varied perspectives, each protagonist grappling with their own moral dilemmas, personal struggles, and emotional growth—enriching the tapestry of the overarching epic.
3. Why It’s on the List
   The Stormlight Archive exemplifies modern epic fantasy at its finest. Sanderson’s meticulous plotting, inventive magic systems, and deep character arcs have cemented his place among the genre’s top creators, making this series essential reading for any fantasy enthusiast.

Ready for a storm of epic fantasy? Begin with The Way of Kings or explore the stunning hardcover collection to fully immerse yourself in Brandon Sanderson’s world. (Purchases through our Amazon affiliate links help fund this site and keep our content free—thank you for your support!)

Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling

1. Overview
   The now-iconic journey of Harry Potter—a boy unaware of his magical lineage until he’s whisked off to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Spanning seven core books, the series chronicles Harry’s battles against the dark wizard Voldemort, exploring themes of friendship, courage, and destiny.
2. Key Highlights
   • Coming-of-Age Adventure
     Each installment sees Harry and his friends growing into adolescence, navigating both everyday teenage challenges and the ever-escalating threats of the wizarding world.
   • Vast Magical Universe
     While much of the story is set at Hogwarts, Rowling’s world extends far beyond its walls—introducing readers to magical governments, hidden societies, and whimsical creatures around every corner.
3. Why It’s on the List
   Few series can match the cultural impact of Harry Potter. It not only sparked a renaissance of children’s literature and reading habits worldwide, but also laid the foundation for a sprawling multimedia empire—films, theme parks, and more—all powered by the timeless appeal of Rowling’s wizarding world.

Return to the magic! Start with Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone or grab the complete collection to relive all the adventures at Hogwarts. (Purchases through our Amazon affiliate links help fund this site and keep our content free—thank you for your support!)

A Song of Ice and Fire (Game of Thrones) by George R.R. Martin

1. Overview
   Set in the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros, A Song of Ice and Fire is a multilayered epic of political power plays, shifting alliances, and looming supernatural threats. Martin spares no detail in building his world—its history, religions, and the simmering tensions that explode into war, shaping the fate of countless characters.
2. Key Highlights
   • Morally Gray Characters and Unpredictability
     Forget clear-cut heroes and villains. Here, flawed individuals vie for power, often sacrificing honor for ambition in ways that leave readers both shocked and enthralled.
   • Dark, Realistic Medieval Vibe
     Known for its brutal realism, Martin’s series pulls no punches, depicting everything from the drudgery of warfare to the complexities of feudal politics. The stark portrayal of human nature propels the narrative beyond simple fantasy conventions.
3. Why It’s on the List
   A Song of Ice and Fire shook up the genre by blending gritty realism with high fantasy elements. Its vast ensemble cast, ruthless power struggles, and constant twists and turns redefined epic fantasy, culminating in the landmark television adaptation Game of Thrones.

Winter is coming! Begin the epic journey with A Game of Thrones or secure the boxed set to experience George R.R. Martin’s full masterpiece. (Purchases through our Amazon affiliate links help fund this site and keep our content free—thank you for your support!)

The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

1. Overview
   The Chronicles of Narnia follows various children as they stumble into Narnia—a land where animals talk, witches wield power, and mythical beasts roam free. Each book introduces different protagonists and fresh challenges while expanding on the realm’s rich lore.
2. Key Highlights
   • Classic Themes
     Good vs. evil, faith, and moral courage lie at the heart of every Narnia story, offering insights that resonate with both young readers and adults.
   • Standalone Adventures, Unified Narrative
     Spanning seven books, each installment serves as an independent journey, yet they all connect through recurring characters and overarching plot threads—building a cohesive magical world.
3. Why It’s on the List
   As a foundational series for children’s fantasy literature, The Chronicles of Narnia paved the way for future generations to explore make-believe worlds. Its timeless appeal continues to captivate, inviting readers of all ages to experience the wonder and enchantment of Narnia.

Step into the wardrobe and discover Narnia! Start with The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe or explore the complete collection to journey through all seven magical tales. (Purchases through our Amazon affiliate links help fund this site and keep our content free—thank you for your support!)

Honorable Mentions

While the following series didn’t make our main list, they’re still monumental works that deserve a nod. If you’re hungry for more epic adventures, these titles might just become your next obsession:

• The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan & Brandon Sanderson
  A colossal 14-book saga that redefined epic fantasy with its expansive world, intricate magic system (the One Power), and a storyline spanning multiple lifetimes.
• His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman
  A thought-provoking trilogy (The Golden Compass, The Subtle Knife, The Amber Spyglass) that seamlessly blends fantasy, theology, and philosophy, set across parallel universes.
• Discworld by Terry Pratchett
  This humorous, satirical series—spread over 40+ novels—turns traditional fantasy tropes on their head, all while offering sharp commentary on human nature.
• The Kingkiller Chronicle by Patrick Rothfuss
  A lyrical, character-driven epic told through the eyes of Kvothe—a gifted magician, thief, and musician. The first two books (The Name of the Wind and The Wise Man’s Fear) have already garnered cult classic status.

Takeaways

From the sprawling realms of Middle-earth to the castle corridors of Hogwarts, each of these fantasy series delivers masterful world-building, compelling characters, and resonant themes. Whether it’s the intricate magic of Brandon Sanderson or the timeless appeal of C.S. Lewis, these works capture our imaginations and remind us of the power of storytelling.

Fantasy literature has a way of leaving a lasting imprint—sometimes it’s the awe you feel reading about a dragon for the first time, or the camaraderie you form with characters who endure incredible trials. Personally, I’ve lost countless hours staying up late, just to see what happens next. That’s the magic of fantasy: it keeps us turning pages, long after bedtime.

Ready to embark on your own grand adventure? Dive into these series and explore the realms of warring kingdoms, hidden doorways, and unimaginable quests. Share your favorite moments, cherished quotes, or new discoveries in the comments below, or join the conversation on social media. After all, the best part of any journey is sharing it with fellow adventurers.